_0.jpg)
A Christian ministry is anticipating its upcoming day dedicated to prayer in hopes of sharing the gospel with even more campers this summer.
One Hope Canada is a national ministry that focuses on sharing the gospel with children and youth, helping kids get an opportunity they might not otherwise have. For example, they help children who come from families that cannot afford to cover the cost of sending them to camp.
"This is the seventh annual 'Day of Prayer for Camp,'" says Kelly Rempel, the Director of Marketing with One Hope Canada in Manitoba. "While One Hope Canada heads it up, it's actually a partnership with other camping organizations in Canada. We invite people to pray into camp ministry. We know the people on the frontlines are doing amazing work, challenging, hard work."
One Hope Canada has 35 Bible camps across the country. 'The Day of Prayer for Camp' will officially take place across the country on May 25. Anyone interested in participating in this free event can find details and prayer resources here.
"[Staff] speak Jesus into the lives of these kids," says Rempel. "We hope they'll be able to handle all of those challenges that come their way. We know that lots of kids are dealing with anxiety and some of them are coming out of really hard things at school. We've had some kids that have come to camp in withdrawal [from drug use.] Being able to pray into that is so key."
Changing Lives
Rempel shares how staff have watched certain kids blossom while at camp and sometimes change in dramatic ways.
"Last year, we had a teen that came to camp with a really big temper. He was on the verge of being sent home. The leaders kept sharing Jesus lovingly, coming alongside him. Slowly, he started to do the devotions. By the end of the week, he gave his life to Christ."
The transformation didn't stop there. The camper decided to ask a bold question to the staff.
"He asked, 'Do you think a kid like me could ever be a cabin leader?' The answer is yes, for sure! God is definitely at work. He's connected with a church, he's been going to youth group, and this summer he's planning on coming back as a leader in training."
Multiple Opportunities for Youth Ministry to Grow
The 3 Heath Brothers concert, put on by One Hope Canada, will be taking place in Winnipeg on May 20 and in Winkler on May 21.
"They're young guys with a passion for music and a heart for student ministry. I would describe their sound like worship/pop."
While the concert is free for people to attend, it will be the official launch of the ministry's 'Adopt a Bunk' campaign.
"It's a new monthly giving program. Maybe you've gone to camp, had a really amazing experience, and a certain cabin has special memories for you. Now we're making it possible that you can sponsor a bunk at that camp, in that cabin, making it possible for another camper to have that same experience. It's a neat way for people to engage in camp ministry."