The Gift of Camp for All Ages
When Lois Blau saw a post about Evergreen Camp, she was very excited. She had fond memories of going to camp when she was young. While the camp memories of her youth were not at Fortune Lake, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to take time to revisit the full camp experience.
When Lois arrived at Fortune Lake, she was surprised to find herself full of apprehension. Despite the welcoming faces at check-in, Lois began to question whether she had made the right choice. The anxiety that comes with committing to a week at camp can get to all of us, regardless of age. Her fears dissipated within hours as she started to interact with the group. By the end of the week, she found herself not only sure that she would come back, but hoping that everyone else would too. Nature, the Bible Studies, and the activities that filled the schedule were highlights. She appreciated the “choose your own adventure” model of adult programming. She was able to choose what resonated with her and take time to rest during what didn’t, allowing her to be more fully present when she was with the group. The most surprising thing to Lois about her week at camp was how much she enjoyed the meals. Lois lives alone, and the opportunity to sit with different people at every meal and converse was special. The participants made up a vibrant group with many stories, and there was much sharing throughout the week.
On Tuesday night, the group gathered for Holden Evening Prayer at Resurrection Ridge, the campfire site that overlooks the lake. Lois was familiar with the liturgy from singing it in her congregation, but this experience was different. With about twenty gathered, the group was led and accompanied by summer staff. The sinking sun was just beginning to set behind Fortune Lake, closing out another beautiful summer’s day. Lois called this Holden Evening Prayer a “true vespers experience,” noting that the litany was all the more powerful in such a lovely setting. Like so many others, Lois was deeply moved by the beauty of God’s Creation at Fortune Lake.
Lois left Evergreen Camp feeling connected to the community that had formed and feeling renewed as she returned to her daily life. She can’t recommend the experience to others enough and intends to return next year. We are so thankful for Lois and the others who made Evergreen Camp the incredible week that it was. Fortune Lake is committed to offering Evergreen Camp in 2025. Might we see YOU there? Visit the Evergreen Camp page to learn more.
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