Dworshak 2008

I spent the week of July 13-19 at a HS water ski camp on the Dworshak Resevior just outside of Orofino, ID. A few cool highlights to tell you about.

1st – this was my 2nd time speaking at the camp, and this time I came prepared with my own tent and camp chair. Here’s what my little setup looked like:

Pretty comfy actually – all things considered… Anyway, at this place it is CAMPING camping – I.E. no electricity, no running water, no showers, no nothing! But this group of people didn’t let this stop them from having an incredible week. The church (Damascus Community) has been coming here for like 15 years so they’ve definitely figured out how to make it work.

In the main part of camp, there’s a kitchen and eating area – btw, the food out there was some of the best I’ve had – I was amazed how great the food could be w/so few resources.

Then there was a little campfire area where we had our meetings each night:

Some students who had just graduated were there to lead the music and did a great job!

Shout out to Joel and Kevin… The students were pretty stoked on being there for the most part – here’s a pic from the worship time the last night.

There was definitely some pretty sweet wakeboarding and tubing going on all week:

This tube – called the “Molecule” was a favorite among the more adventurous students…

What can I say? I really enjoyed the whole week. I got some much needed rest during the down time (I can’t remember the last time I didn’t answer a phone call or return an email for a week – God bless no electricity or cell service) and I was able to do some good reading (Potok’s The Promise, Endo’s Silence, Webber’s People of the Truth). The weather was incredible – only one little spot of rain, but mostly warm, warm sunshine. Each night, I was blessed to speak to these students, offering them visions and images of what Christianity is and could be: Story, Community, Powerful Practices, Mission, and Discipleship. It’s a unique experience and the people at Damascus have definitely created a powerful week for these students. Here’s a pic of Phil, the youth pastor, on the boat ride out to the camp to close the post…