I sat in the backseat of the car feeling my heart beating in the back of my throat. Here I was staying one week at a primitive church camp in the back woods of
I knew noone and it felt as if I had to make a self introduction everywhere I turned. It seemed as if everyone knew everyone else and I was the ‘new girl’. Day 1 was pretty much just that. People getting to know me, me getting to know people. The first evening’s chapel service made me realize that I was going to get through the week and enjoy myself in the meantime. We sang Acapella music and worshipped God through devotion. There was something about sitting in an open pavilion, staring out into the deep woods that God had made, that made me realize I was right where I was supposed to be.
As the week progressed, so did my need to give my life to God. On Day 4, I am proud to say that I was baptized in the mobile baptistery that the church camp provided. The water was frigid but the warmth in my heart made up for that. My parents, brother, sister, grandparents, uncle, and cousin all got to share in the experience with me. They all stayed afterwards for that evening devotional and we all had an amazing evening.
The last day of camp came too quickly, and my mom came to pick me up early that morning. I packed up my belongings, walked out to the car, and held back tears of sorrow at the thought of leaving this wonderful place. I was amazed at the change in myself and once I got home wanted once again to feel the peace that came along with Surprise Valley Youth Camp. I cannot wait until next summer when hopefully I get the chance to attend once again. I only wish I could take my full length shower curtain with me!
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.