Sonshine

I just got back from the closing ceremony of Us in the Son. This camp holds a special place in my heart. I worked on staff during the summers of 1990-1992, and this experience is a big part of who I am today. It was at camp that I learned how tangible faith can be; where I learned that the traits I need to strive for in my life are faith, peace, growth, joy, courage and love; where I learned that some friends really are forever; and where I discovered that I can always go home.

That’s where I was this afternoon, along with several other “old” counselors. How many places still annually attract people who worked there years and years ago? Many travel long distances to be here on this day. We were college students then with so much idealism, so much to learn and so much of life in front of us. But the miracles that kind of energy can create are amazing! Now every year we come back with spouses and children, sometimes even our parents in tow. Camp was such a part of the family!

Each morning, the counselors and volunteers attend 8:00 mass. As James and I were home, he was able to volunteer this week. I attended morning mass a few times, and was so pleased with what I saw. Teenagers and college students—actively involved in daily mass. They did the readings, acted as altar servers, led the music, and served communion. James had a great week volunteering, working and playing with his "green family" kids, meeting new friends and learning about how rewarding it can be to serve.

If this is the future of our church, then I believe we are in good hands.

“We have found joy in laughter, peace through prayer, and love in a tearful embrace; we have discovered just what Jesus meant when he said, "love one another as I have loved you"; and we have created a community based on the belief that God's love can change lives.”

Pass it on!

L