Praise God the Heidelberg West Youth Camp in California met in June of 2022 at the Sierra Christian Campground in the Green Horn Mountains of Cleveland National Forest. Our topic for this year was “Christian Living” with lessons focused on “Glorifying God, Imitating Christ And Serving Others.” This is the Bible passage it is based on: Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1).
Twenty-two happy campers arrived from the following
Western Classis congregations:
Grace Reformed Church in Bakersfield, California
Covenant Reformed Church in Chico, California
Covenant Reformed Church in San Diego, California
Ebenezer Reformed Church in Shafter, California
Valle De Gracia Mission Congregation in Shafter, California
First Reformed Church in Yuba City, California
There were six counselors, one cook, three kitchen
patrol helpers, two directors, a nurse and her assistant, and four
pastors to serve the campers. We were blessed to hear teaching from Pastors Ruben Zartman, Tracy Gruggett, Sam Powell, and Gil Baloy (who also led our Wednesday evening service). In addition, there were daily devotionals led by the camp counselors for each cabin individually. While the number of campers was on the low side compared to past camps, it just meant that there were more staffers to go around making the camp that much more special.
How kind God was in giving us such wonderful weather. All the better to enjoy the great outdoors at the start of
summer! We had fun activities like swimming, archery, kickball, relay races, fishing and “Sharks and Minnows” (no connection to fresh water fishing). There was also ping pong, and a variety of crafts to work on indoors, which “works of art” they afterwards shared with their families back home. On the last day, we had our controversial, yet hilarious, “Kangaroo Court.” It was followed by the Talent Show displaying some amazing musical talent and original dramatic skits. By the way, were blessed with the visit of the Alpuche Family and other brethren from nearby churches who appeared to enjoy their time with us. At the end, older and younger campers alike would assist in the cleanup of the dining room, kitchen, their individual cabins, the restrooms and together in the final sweep of the grounds. Their eagerness to help out was a delightful testimony.
Sadly, there will not be a camp this year (2023). But, like in previous years, we will promote it again and again in all of our churches. With prayer that moves mountains (like the Green Horn Mountains!), we believe God can give us another even more memorable camp experience the next time. May camp continue to be that special place which God uses in drawing our young people to be closer to, and more like, their faithful Savior Jesus Christ. “He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer. This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the LORD.” (Psalm 102:17-18).
Gil Baloy
