The 11th annual Winter Camp began on Dec. 21 and ended Dec. 26. Campers from 13 states enjoyed the winter activities of tubing and cross-country skiing. The 48 campers and 33 staff members enjoyed five days together building bonds and learning more about God's way of life.

Relationships were emphasized in daily Compass Check Christian Living classes. Topics included "Inclusiveness in our Relationships" by Steve Nutzman and "Words That Hurt and Words That Help" by Victor Kubik. Dawn Familetti conducted a class for the young ladies on "Growing From Girlhood to a Feminine Woman." Gary Black spoke to the young men on the topic of "Ambition."

Special guests were Vic and Bev Kubik, who instructed in indoor team challenge. A lively question-and-answer session allowed the campers to ask questions about the Bible and practical situations in life. Daily dorm inspections encouraged campers to keep their dorm rooms and personal items clean and neat.

Dance class helped the campers to learn new dance steps that they displayed at the dance on the last night. Other activities included floor hockey, basketball, volleyball, outdoor team challenge, snow football, open game night and arts and crafts.

The camp activities and classes are designed to assist campers in their spiritual and emotional growth. One camper wrote that camp "has helped me develop more self-confidence and has brought my spirits up." Another camper wrote, "Camp gave me new friends and a new attitude on life for a new perspective."

The dedicated camp staff generously gave of their time and talents to these future leaders. And for that, we offer our deep thanks for a job well done.

After directing Winter Camp for nine years from 1997 to 2005, Steve Nutzman is retiring from his duties as camp director. Overall United Youth Camp coordinator Larry Greider has asked him to help with ACA accreditation this summer. Former Winter Camp assistant director Gary Black will now be the camp director of Winter Camp.

What does camp mean to the youth? Three campers responded this way:

"To help develop godly character and work on relationships (human to human and God relationships)."

"To help us to become closer to God and create a 'Zone' environment."

"Camp always helps me feel more loved and more outgoing. It's such a great investment of time and money."

We certainly see evidence that the United Youth Camps are training, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of servants for service in God's Church. This truly is exciting!