Summer Camps 2023: God, Nature and You
Photo courtesy of Camp Journey
There’s no better way to connect with our Heavenly Parent this summer than at a youth camp near you! Nine camps are happening across the country, bringing together hundreds of young Unificationists for fun-filled activities, fellowship, and more.
From June 25 to July 1, One Heart Camp is being held at Camp Seely northeast of Los Angeles. The camp — open to middle and high school students as well as participants from around the country — will focus on True Parents’ life course and exploring the identity of Unification-born youth. Pastor Kevin Thompson of the Bay Area Family Church will deliver the core message in addition to testimonies from various young adults.
Camp Aurora in New Hampshire is happening July 2 through 8 at the Geneva Point Center in Moultonborough. A youth, middle, and high school program will run concurrently, as participants enjoy building meaningful relationships while further developing their faith and exploring the great outdoors.
“Campers are immersed in a supportive community as they begin to discover their unique contribution and gifts while surrounded by the beauty of nature,” Camp Aurora organizers say. “Through memorable and profound experiences, campers are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with the Divine, deepen their understanding of the teachings of True Parents, and the value of spiritual traditions from around the world.”
In Texas, Camp Lone Star is also taking place July 2 through 8 at the Morgan Family Ranch. This year’s theme, “My Lighthouse: Becoming a Beacon of Love,” encourages high school participants to “go in depth with the four great realms of heart,” an organizer says. “We hope to guide our brothers and sisters in connecting to our Heavenly Parent through these stages, and when we inherit that love, we can be a beacon of light for our friends and family.”
From July 3 to 25, the popular National Ocean Challenge Program (NOCP) is happening in Kodiak, Alaska. The 21-day program for ages 17 and older still has three participant spots available. Some highlights of the program include river fishing, beach bonfires with team reflections, a city and hatchery tour, and a fishing tournament with prizes.
While Camp Journey on the West Coast is scheduled for July 7 through 13 — for youth ages 13 to 18 from Washington, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Alaska — the weeklong EPIC workshop for high school and college students is happening July 9 to 16 at the Morning Garden property in Gloucester, Mass. The workshop, rooted in Divine Principle education, is a great opportunity for spiritual growth and self-reflection that has inspired many participants.
“I learned a lot, grew as a speaker, and grew in my conviction of this faith,” shared a young Unificationist. “I [also] learned the stories of so many people around me ... [during] this amazing experience.”
Camp Shehaqua, held at Hickory Run State Park in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, features two separate family camps running from July 23 to 28 and July 31 to Aug. 5. Assorted activities include volleyball, dodgeball, reflection time in nature, bonfires, and a talent show.
In the Midwest, Camp KOGAPE is happening July 30 through Aug. 5 at Camp Wyoming — a Christian retreat center in Jones County, Iowa. The intergenerational camp features a parents’ retreat and family program. This year’s theme, “God is Our Parent,” helps participants bond over faith and fun group activities.
Project Orenda, a new camp this year, is a two-week national adventure camp for young Unificationists to experience the beauty of nature, grow their faith, and build lasting friendships. The program will run from July 15 to 30 and will start at Unification Theological Seminary.
The Southeast region doesn’t currently have a dedicated summer workshop for youth. You can find more details, including camp registration deadlines, fees, and contact information here.