If Not Now, When?
Camp Christian: A Place To Be Set Apart From The World
By Rev. Ali Miguel
The very first time I set foot on the grounds at Camp Christian was in summer of 1991 as a Chi Rho camper. Ever since then I have had the privilege of returning to Camp Christian countless times in a variety of roles. I have been a camper, a counselor, an attendee at a workshop, a leader of a retreat, a volunteer in the kitchen, and an officiant for a wedding just to name a few. However, no matter how my role has changed while I am at Camp Christian, one thing has always remained the same. Every time I set foot on those sacred grounds that is home to Camp Christian, I get to experience the gift of being set apart from the world.
No matter if my time set apart is for a day, a weekend or a week, it always offers the same invitation; the invitation to loosen my grasp on all that life requires of me to carry and find some rest, relief, and renewal. During my experiences of being set apart, at camp, I always find a new confidence to strike up conversations with people I just met. I find a new energy that causes me to laugh more freely and deeply. And most importantly when I am at set apart at camp, I find the opportunity to listen more wholly and attentively to God's voice, especially when that comes through the voice of others.
The sacred grounds that are Camp Christian always offers an invitation to step away from the world as you know it and be set apart to find rest for your spirit. When I am there at any event, no matter the topic, no matter the program, no matter the building, the rec hall, the dining hall, in the pool, on the side of the pool, in the cabins or at one of the Vesper spots, there is this constant whisper that says, "rest, breath, and just be.” Although I have traveled to some incredible places, there is no place that offers the opportunity to experience being set apart quite like the sacred grounds that is home to Camp Christian does. And even though the camp has had many physical changes over the years, that aspect has never changed. And I'm certain it never will.
I am truly grateful for all the people who did what they could so that I could have the many being set apart at Camp Christian. This has been a life-giving gift that I will always hold close at heart. And I pray it is a life-giving gift an abundance of people will get to experience for many years to come as well.
Please consider supporting the If Not Now, When? If Now You, Who? campaign to help ensure that even more people can feel set apart and find rest and renewal for their spirits at Camp Christian. For more information or to make a recurring donation or pledge, go online to: www.ccinoh.com/campaign