Youth and Recreation Activity Resource Center
Activity and Resource Center
Camping Manual for Churches and Civic Organizations
Camping Manual for Churches and Civic Organizations
Camping Manual for Churches
And Civic Organizations
Contents
Introduction 3
Chapter 1 Getting Your Camping Program off the Ground 6
Chapter 2 Planning and Conducting a Retreat Program 18
Chapter 3 Planning and Conducting a Family Camping Program 28
Chapter 4 Planning and Conducting a Travel Camping Program 38
Chapter 5 Planning and Conducting a Day Camping Program 40
Chapter 6 Planning and Conducting a Resident Camping Program 49
Chapter 7 Planning and Conducting a Wilderness Camping Program 54
Chapter 8 Camping Program Activities 68
Appendix A Campsite and Program Standards 74
Appendix B Addresses of Camping and Camping-Related Organizations 82
Appendix C Suggestions for Camp Safety 83
Appendix D Camp Information Forms 89
Appendix E Bibliography 93
This material was adapted from the Book, “A Guide to Church Camping”, By John LaNoue Copyright 1976 CONVENTION PRESS All rights reserved. Produced by the Church Recreation Department Church Services and Materials Division Nashville, Tennessee. Printed in the United Stales of America. Used by Permission
pp. 22, 23 - Dave Repp / lmage; p. 37 - Bill Preston / lmage; p. 44 - Jimmy Ellis / Image; p. 56 - Jack Corn / Image; p. 60 - Bob Rosser, p. 64 - Sam Satterfield; p. 65 - Bob Rosser; p. 74 - Randy Dieter / lmage; p. 82 - Ed Lalla / Image; p. 83 - Michael Hayman / Image; p, 88 - Sam Satterfield; p. 91 - Larry Yarborough.
Getting Your Camping Program off the Ground
Chapter One
The purpose of this guidebook is multifaceted. It attempts to explain the place of camping in the local church, YMCA, YWCA, Boys Club, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Civic Organizations that organize group activities and want to use camping in their programs. It provides a basic introduction to the various forms of camping that can be used in churches and other organizations. The book also shows how specific camping techniques may be used to assist the various programs of churches in their ministries and civic organizations in their programs. Finally, this guidebook explains how to organize a camping program in a local church or civic organization, and it contains a bibliography of resources.
This book is organized to enable the person just learning about group camping to discover the "what," "why," "when," "where," and "how" of camping. The person already knowledgeable in group camping may wish to view the Contents page and select the sections of interest to him/her. The material on organization is placed near the end of the book to allow a person to know what he/she is trying to organize before he/she learns how to organize it.
Church Camping: Definition, History, Forms of Camping
Definition
Church camping may be defined as "camping which utilizes the resources of the natural environment for Christian education, fellowship, evangelism, ministry, and personal growth experiences." Church camping also 'uses the creation to teach about the Creator.
Romans 1:19-20 (TLB) states, "For the truth about God is known to them instinctively; God has put this knowledge in their hearts. Since earliest times men have seen the earth and sky and all God made, and have known of His existence and great eternal power. So they will have no excuse [when they stand before God at Judgment Day]." 1
This definition of church camping is related to the ministries and programs of the church and its individual members; it is not intended to be an exhaustive definition of camping in general.
Any organization that provides activities for any group can use camping as a vital part of their program. When the articles use “Church” as a description, just place the name of your organization in its place and follow the suggested directions.
History of Camping as It Relates to the Church
The general history of camping runs parallel to the history of man. But, camping also has a particularly significant place in the entire history of both the Old and New Testaments.
Abraham, Moses, and Joshua used travel or trip camping. Elijah, David, Isaiah, and Jesus used retreat camping in their ministries.
The Todds, in their book “Camping for Christian Youth”, provide this background information:
"Roots of camping may be considered to extend back to the dawn of human life. Some may wish to cite Adam and Eve as the first campers. Undoubtedly they were the first to learn 'survival techniques' after their banishment from the Garden. Abram camped along the way as he led his troop westward. Later Moses for forty years was 'camp director' for possibly the largest encampment [travel camp] in history, as the Israelites spent time in the wilderness in 'trail camping' - family style. On the mountainside or along the shores of Lake Galilee, Jesus, instructing His followers, set the pattern for present-day campers, who retreat to the out-of-doors to learn spiritual truths." 2
In more recent church history, camping was used for extended periods of worship and fellowship in the "camp meeting" revivals.
In the early 1900's camping became a popular sport, and it began to be accepted as legitimate recreation. Dr. Heyriold E. Carlson, in a monograph entitled "The Values of Camping," provided this information:
"Organized camping is part of the American heritage. Camps began to develop in the United States over a century ago to provide experiences related to the environment and to our historic past, different from experiences offered by other educational media. The romanticized stories of the westward movement - of explorers, Indians, pioneers, and cowboys - cast their spell on the new movement, and many camps kept alive these themes from American history.
"During the early 1900's, with many rural families crowding into the cities, camping grew rapidly. Perhaps parents who themselves had their roots in the soil felt that their city-born children needed the contacts with the basics of life that had been common on the farm. A further influence in the expansion of camping lay in the widespread conviction that the camp was one of the finest settings possible for character development or for the indoctrinization of particular points of view. Educators and psychologists joined in praise of this innovative and effective means of education.
As a result, practically all agencies dealing with children enthusiastically adopted camps as part of their programs. Religious organizations saw in camping an ideal educational setting in which to propagate their faiths. Many private camps were established, and parents found that these camps helped to develop desirable physical, mental, social, and spiritual qualities while appealing to their children as centers for exciting outdoor experiences." 3
During this period, as Dr. Carlson stated, churches began having summer camps for church youth and general camps for all ages. Raymond Peters wrote about the first modern, permanent church camping effort: "The first permanent camping program sponsored by churches had its beginning at Lake Geneva, America's Blue Galilee, in Wisconsin in 1914. This date may be taken as marking the beginning of the religious camping movement in America." 4
Forms of Church and Civic Organization Camping
The term "church camping" as it is used in this guidebook includes all past, present, and future forms of camping which may be used by a church or civic organization in its ministry to its members and/or to the nonmembers. Church camping includes the following categories:
Retreat Camping
Retreat camping is a short-term, (one to three nights), camping experience involving assembly, decentralized, or wilderness camping as the form. A retreat provides a temporary withdrawal from the normal routine of life.
The purpose of a retreat is singular- to provide personal, spiritual renewal in Christ. This purpose may be accomplished through a variety of means: music, Bible study, small-group discussion, prayer, fellowship, or any combination of many various means. But, the very term "retreat" indicates a withdrawal.
Jesus used the retreat method frequently in the training of his disciples. The Gospel of Matthew records these retreats:
1. Matthew 4:1 ff.-Jesus withdrew into the wilderness for a forty-day fast before beginning his public ministry.
2. Matthew 5:1 ff.-Jesus retreated to a mountain for the purpose of teaching his disciples through the Sermon on the Mount.
3. Matthew 14:13.-Jesus went to a desert place for a retreat when he heard of the death of John the Baptist.
4. Matthew 15:21.-Jesus retreated to the area around Tyre and Sidon. After this retreat he returned to heal a large crowd of sick people and miraculously fed 4,000 men, women, and children.
5. Matthew 16:13.-Jesus reached to the "coasts of Caesarea Philippi." Here Peter made the statement that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God.
6. Matthew 17:1 ff.-Jesus took Peter, James, and John on a retreat on a high mountain where they were isolated, or "apart" as the KJV states it. Here the transfiguration of Jesus occurred.
7. Matthew 19:1 ff.-Jesus attempted to withdraw with his disciples for a while in the border area of Judea. His attempted withdrawal was changed by the arrival of a great crowd of people who followed him there.
These "withdrawals" of Jesus usually preceded an important spiritual event or victory in the life and ministry of Jesus.
The retreat, then as now, provided a temporary withdrawal from the normal routine of life. Although its purpose is spiritual renewal, a retreat also results in the development of the Christian life.
For specific details on retreat planning and operation, see chapter 2. Also refer to the module “Retreat Manual”, which is “A Guide to Planning and Conducting a Retreat”
Travel Camping
Travel camping may be a short or long-term camping experience which combines living outdoors and traveling by any conveyance (bus, car, canoe, horse, motorcycle, bicycle, and so forth) from place to place.
The purpose of the travel camp may be spiritual growth, Christian development, group fellowship, and/or Christian service. The technique may be used for missions education, choir trips, youth trips, senior adult group travel, family camping, group travel with a number of families caravanning and camping as a group and many other activities where adventurous or economical travel is desired.
Moses conducted a type of travel camp during the exodus from Egypt. This style of camping provided not only a way of living while on the trip but also a means of teaching and training the traveling Hebrews. It was a time of physical and spiritual conditioning which would enable the people to face the problems of the future with success.
Church groups and various youth organizations are currently using travel camping in their program. This style of camping appeals greatly to youth. However, it has a strong appeal among all ages. The proliferation of commercial campgrounds supports this statement.
For specific details on travel camp planning and operation, see chapter 4.
Day Camping
Day camping means camping basically in the daytime or evening with no overnight stay at the campsite. However, some day camps may include an overnight camping experience for the older children on the last day of the day camp. This feature serves as an opportunity for day campers to use the camping skills they have learned in a practical setting.
Day camping involves teaching children about the Creator through the use of his creation. Campers are learning about the out-of-doors, seeing God's creative work in nature, and then seeing this same creative power at work in their own lives. Day camping is an outdoor experience of learning by doing.
Day camping is both an educational and an evangelistic tool for the church. It has an important role in the Christian education program of a church.
The basic goals of day camping are:
1. to reach children and their families for Christ;
2. to help children develop new friendships, good life habits, sound ecological practices, a love for nature, an understanding of God's plan for all of life, and God's plan for their own lives;
3. to prepare children for participation in a resident camping program when they are older.
Flexibility is the key to successful day camping. The specific goals of each day camp will be determined by the needs of the group involved in the particular day camp. These goals will determine the program content. However, the campsite, campers, and camp leaders all play a role in determining the program content. No two day camps will be exactly alike.
For specific details on day camp planning and operation, see chapter 5.
Resident Camping
Resident camping means a four-day or longer camp program where the campers live on the camp property twenty-four hours a day. However, wilderness camping expeditions may be an extended part of a resident camping program.
The resident camping program is generally successful with older elementary-age children through senior adults.
Resident camping may include two basic styles: centralized, or assembly style, and decentralized. The centralized camp program focuses on major central meetings which are built around a program faculty. The teaching, training, worship, and recreation periods all are scheduled so that the entire camp may function as a unit with a minimum of confusion. This type of camp usually is housed in a facility providing a central chapel and dining hall with the sleeping quarters in dormitories or cabins nearby.
The decentralized camp program focuses on the small group. The cabin group or cabin cluster group (campers housed in a small group of two to four cabins) is virtually self-contained. Each unit works, studies, worships, and recreates as a separate group. A unit may even develop its own schedule except for mealtimes and bedtimes.
Lois Goodrich writes: "In all these program areas, directors should not have set ideas, in advance, about the interests and abilities of young or old. When children are allowed to plan their own programs almost totally, they surprise adults both with their sustained interest and the results accomplished."5
Most resident camps are not purely centralized or decentralized; they are a blend of the two. The wise church camp director will select the elements from both forms which will best serve his purpose.
Regardless of the type of resident camp, the program would contain the basic elements of worship, study, music, rest, and recreation.
For specific details on the planning and operation of a resident camp, see chapter 6.
Wilderness Camping
Wilderness camping is sometimes referred to as backpacking, but the term "wilderness" is specifically applied to the camping technique used in wilderness areas, away from civilization. Wilderness campers are dedicated to camping in and traveling through wilderness areas and leaving little or no trace of their camp or passage.
The backpacking techniques are used for the transportation of supplies and equipment.
This type of camping accentuates the study of the Creator through his creation, and it also strengthens a person's sense of stewardship of God's gift to us - earth. Wilderness camping permits the closest contact between God and man in nature.
For specific details on how to plan and operate a wilderness camping program, see chapter 7.
Backpacking
Backpacking is a camping method which involves hiking and carrying all needed equipment and supplies in a backpack. Backpacking is used when campers go to one or more campsites per trip. The area visited need not be remote or classed as a wilderness area.
This form of camping may be used on a weekend outing or on a picnic in a road less area. Backpacking also may be used as the basic method of camping for a two-week wilderness expedition.
For more specific details on the planning and operation of a backpack camping program, see chapter 7.
Primitive or Pioneer Camping
This type of camping may involve backpacking techniques, but it teaches more nature crafts, woodsmanship skills, and survival camping skills.
This form of camping is the opposite of wilderness camping in some ways. The camper conforms to the needs of nature in wilderness camping; in pioneer camping the camper forces nature to conform to his needs. Pioneer camping uses tools and natural materials to construct some camping equipment for group and personal use.
Pioneer camping establishes a more or less permanent campsite with the constructed equipment. This campsite may be used over and over by a church group during the period of a year or two.
For more specific information on the planning and conducting of a pioneer camping program, see chapter 7.
Christian Stress Camping
This form of camping uses a combination of wilderness camping and backpacking techniques, and it adds the element of stress through the conquering of obstacles.
Christian stress camping is designed to develop a person's creativity, extend his limit of endurance, and teach him problem-solving techniques which may be applied to life's problems in other areas.
Quiet times and campfire study groups help to develop the camper's personal devotional life and Bible study skills.
For further information on planning and conducting a Christian stress camping program, see chapter 7.
Family Camping
Family camping is camping done by family groups. This form of camping may involve one family camping, or it may involve a group of family units on a camp-out together.
The style of family camping may vary from backpacking to motor homes. Some Baptist encampments sponsor family camps. These usually will have some family-sized cabins available and a campground. Some even have parking spaces and utility connections for travel trailers and motor homes.
The basic purpose of this type camping is to strengthen the family structure and bond and to help the family members grow together as Christians.
The general rule is that family camping should not take families out of the regular services of the local church. However, some churches with organized family camping clubs conduct extension services on holiday weekends at resort areas. Others use family camping techniques on mission trips.
See chapter 3 for more details on family camping.
Philosophy of Church Camping
Church Camping Meets Individual Needs
Church camping is to help fulfill the spiritual and physical needs of individuals, both Christian and non-Christian. In so doing church camping helps the church reach its objectives. These objectives are to lead the lost to Christ and to guide persons in a progressive development toward Christian maturity.
What is church camping?
· "A place where campers become aware in a new and beautiful way of the presence of the Creator as they see Him behind the beauties of nature.
· A plan where Christ is brought out in every element of the program.
· An experience whereby old lives are made new by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, manifested in the lives of the campers.
· A solution to problems that only can be solved in actual life situations rather than in formal teaching situations."
This kind of church camping meets the needs of campers. And in our form of fast-paced living, individuals develop tremendous spiritual, emotional, and social needs. Church camping can provide isolation from the usual pressures of daily life, allowing a person to slow down and think; the camper can develop a life plan of action rather than let life become a series of unplanned reactions.
Church Camping Undergirds the Functions of the Church
Through camping, the function of worship is creatively done through campfire services, worship services in the morning and/or evening, cabin devotions, and personal devotions or quiet times. Through the use of the natural setting, the sense of God's presence is heightened.
The function of evangelism also is served through camping. Both preparation for witnessing to the unsaved person and an opportunity for witnessing are available through the program of church camping.
Camps afford the isolation and the time for a concentrated study of evangelism and consideration of the gospel.
Some churches sponsor pre-revival retreats to prepare their people for witnessing through concentrated instruction, practical experiences, and inspiration.
Camping also assists the church in its function of ministry. Camping provides both the training in various avenues of ministry and actual opportunities for ministry.
Some camps design a basic program to offer training in many areas of ministry. Churches bring their youth and adults to these programs for training. Some camps are held to train youth to be summer mission workers; other camps help train adults for ministry.
Many camps offer a ministry to the underprivileged and troubled youth. Special camps also are held for the mentally and physically challenged as well as for senior adults. Camperships (free or subsidized trips to camp) are another means of ministering to the underprivileged through the regular camping program.
Church camping strengthens the church's function of education in several ways. The normal church program calls for approximately one hour of Bible study per week in Sunday School, one hour of study in Church Training usually held in the early Sunday Evening before the worship service, and one to two hours of preaching in the worship and prayer services. The camping program provides greater continuity by having Bible study, special study, and preaching daily. The learning experience at camp is greatly enhanced by the limited outside distractions, the controlled living experience in a Christian community, and the concentration of educational materials and personnel available to the camper.
Camp programs provide an ideal avenue for using the many materials available from the list of undated materials on the Church Literature Order Form and the study materials available through the Church Services and Materials Division Catalogs of most denominations; material offered by the Boy Scouts of America; books and booklets available from the Girl Scouts of America; study guides from the many parachurch organizations, such as Campus Crusade, Young Life, Navagators, American Camping Association; and many other organizations that print study guides and make movies.
The camping program supports the missions function of a church in three basic ways:
1. Through missions education;
2. Through an atmosphere in which people may respond to God's call to serve as missionaries;
3. Through camping techniques which serve as a vehicle for mission activity.
For example, a Christian stress camping program reaches youth for Christ and helps these young Christians mature in their faith - perhaps to the point of life commitment to missions.
The church function of fellowship is not simply a "fun and games" type of function. Fellowship involves personal empathy and the sharing of burdens as well as blessings. Camping, whether assembly-type or wilderness backpacking, builds the comradeship, openness, and acceptance which is so essential to Christian fellowship. People who camp together are exposed to situations, stresses, and experiences which cause them to drop their social masks and be "real" with one another.
Church Camping Helps the Undeveloped Christian
Church camping provides a therapeutic service for the undeveloped Christian through outdoor activity. The undeveloped Christian needs help in many aspects of his life in order to understand and enjoy the "life more abundant" which the Scriptures promise in John 10:10. The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). 7 In camp life the immature Christian can experience these spiritual insights into action. Cooperation, forgiveness, sacrifice, trust, love, joy, suffering, and acceptance are all a part of the relationships among campers.
Because of the numerous nature illustrations and object lessons in the Bible, the natural environment of camp adds a deeper dimension to Bible study and worship. Biblical illustrations take on new meaning, and the camper's insight into truth becomes much keener. In the camaraderie of a camping fellowship, campers tend to share fresh spiritual insights and other personal, meaningful experiences. These testimonies might not be earthshaking events, but they are evidences of spiritual growth.
"Families camp and sit around campfires and more is shared than meals and coffee. Christ becomes real in the lives of families as Christian campers witness." 8
One of the major contributions of church camping to the church program is the involvement of inactive laymen. Many church members participate in the church program as spectators. They may worship on Sunday, but they are not deeply involved in the fellowship of the church. A church camping program can utilize the outdoor and campcraft skills of this "fringe" group, giving them a place of meaningful service. Frequently, this camping experience can be a first step in further church program involvement.
Church Camping Operates at Various Levels
The church camping organization helps to evaluate and develop all camping-related church activities. This evaluation process occurs at two or three levels. The local church should have a camping director and/or committee as a part of the church recreation staff. All church-related camping activities should be approved by or sponsored by this group. The state convention should have a state recreation consultant who assists the churches in evaluating their camping programs and in developing programs as they are needed. Since some state conventions do not have a state recreation consultant, this level is omitted in some cases. The church camping program at the denomination level is directed by the church recreation specialist. The camping consultant in this department is responsible for evaluating and developing camping-related church activities and for training church camp leaders.
Tasks of Church Camping at the Denomination Level
Provide Methods and Materials
Many Church Denominations have materials and training for planning a camping experience. Church camping at the denominational level has the task of providing methods for using camping in the church program. For example, methods are suggested for using resident camping with older children, youth, young adults, adults, and senior adults. Techniques are provided for using day camping as a ministry to elementary children and providing youth with service opportunities as counselors. Ideas for using wilderness camping for spiritual and physical development, as well as for outreach, are also examples of camping methodology.
The denomination office may also provide materials for leadership. Materials may include a camp program director's guide, a camp manager's manual, curriculum materials, and counselors' materials.
Teach Camping Principles
Church camping is also responsible for teaching and training church leaders in camping principles. The principles of church camping and their utilization are taught through the existing church programs and through special studies. Leadership conferences and camps offer nontechnical and technical study of the principles, methods, and program of church camping. Some state conventions provide training conferences for camp managers and camp program directors. Many Church Denomination Recreation specialist sponsor camping classes at conference or Rec Lab each year. Here, state and local leaders are trained in all phases of camping.
Recreation Week at the Conference Centers each summer and regional recreation clinics provide further training opportunities in camping.
Train Leaders to Use Equipment.
Church camping promotion at the state and denomination level assists in training church personnel to use technical camping equipment, Christian camping techniques, and human resources for conducting camp programs. This training is provided primarily through special camp training events and in conjunction with other recreation training events. Skill training is offered in all areas and types of camping at the Rec Lab during Conference Center Week, and in special campcraft training events organized by state convention personnel and other convention agencies.
Training also is provided when a special project or technique is required. The church camping consultant of the denomination or state has assisted the Foreign Mission Board in the Missionary and Journeyman orientation sessions by providing instruction in emergency camping or survival techniques. He/she has worked with local churches to train their leaders and youth in special skills needed for using camping as a part of a mission trip to Central America. And, he/she has worked with the Home Mission Board in training church leaders to use stress camping as a part of their camping program.
Help to Meet Special Needs
Church camping at denomination level assists in the development of camping techniques for special needs. An example is the use of camping techniques in disaster relief work. Church camping also assists in the preparation of camping techniques applicable to churches, associations, and state conventions. This assistance is reflected in all areas of camping, from the personal development of a local church camping program, to the resort outreach of an association, to the programming and operation of a state assembly program,.
The Relationships of Church Camping at Denomination, State Conventions, and Local Church Levels
Intra-program Relationships
The uses of camping skills are incorporated into all areas of church, civic and community recreation where feasible. Physical fitness is stressed in preparation for a wilderness or stress camping trip, and physical fitness training is made a part of many resident camping programs. Sports also are a part of most camping programs. Individual sports, team sports, games, novelty sports, horseback riding, swimming, field events, and so forth are included. Social recreation also is an integral part of all camping programs. The event might be a victory banquet at the conclusion of a stress camping event, a potluck fellowship on a family camp-out, or an auditorium party at a large resident camp.
Retreats are so similar to short-term resident camps that the techniques used are identical. The relationship between camps and retreats is so close that the two are separated only at the points of length and size.
Drama is used in camping in many ways. Fun drama or skits in resident camps, dramatic campfire services, and drama in creative camp worship services are only a few of the many ways in which drama is used at camp.
Arts, crafts, and hobbies relate to camping as program elements in resident camps, as a part of creative nature study in wilderness camping, and as a practical necessity in the construction of camping gear in a pioneer or primitive camp.
Music is an integral part of camping, and it relates to almost every phase. Music starts with reveille each day in resident camps, continues with hymns in the worship services, and ends when taps is played at lights-out. Family campers sing on every camp-out. The music may include a guitar, Autoharp, or prerecorded tape as accompaniment. As wilderness campers cover the trail, they sing "sound off." And, as they view one of God's spectacles of creation, they may sing "How Great Thou Art."
Special recreation is used in the resident camp and day camp programs designed for the mentally and/or physically handicapped. However, some special recreation needs to be a part of all resident camp, retreat, and day camp programs because of the number of handicapped people who attend the regular sessions. Their limitations might be temporary, and the limitations may not be obvious except to a physician. But provision needs to be made for these persons.
Inter-program Relationships
Church camping assists all other church program organizations in their work. Bible teaching is one of the basics of camping. Resident camping Bible study periods offer excellent opportunities to use Vacation Bible School materials or study course books. Camping is filled with opportunities to illustrate basic gospel truths.
Camping relates vitally to the music program. Music is used throughout the camping program, and the camping program provides excellent musical training opportunities. Camping offers opportunities for participation, performance, and training in music. Music clinics, workshops, and so forth may all be a part of a camp program. The camp setting, with its inspirational atmosphere, is an excellent place to inspire song writing.
Mission education, like Bible study and music, should be a part of every camp program whether it is a long-term or short-term camping experience. Mission education may be a detailed study of a particular phase of home or foreign missions; it may be a general study of the work of the Cooperative Program; or it may involve praying for those missionaries on the daily prayer calendar. But mission education is a must for a camp program. There are two major reasons for this emphasis. First, campers need to be continually updated on the financial, prayer, and personnel needs of our mission program. Second, God may use the camp atmosphere and the missions’ information to call some of the campers to missions as a vocation.
Certain types of camping - like family camping, travel camping, wilderness camping, and backpacking - may be used as tools of missionary endeavor at resort areas or on mission trips. The pastoral ministries program of a church also finds assistance in a camping program. Camps may be used to help fulfill the tasks of proclaiming the gospel to believers and unbelievers; leading the church to engage in a fellowship of worship, witness, education, ministry, and application of gospel truths; leading the church in performing its tasks; and caring for church members and other persons in the community. Counseling opportunities in personal problems, spiritual problems, and vocational guidance are abundant in the camping program.
Camping also works with Church Training in achieving its goals. Camping, in long-term and short-term resident camps, serves as a platform for the presentation of Church Training methods and materials. Camping also serves as a vehicle for the orientation of new church members. The Church Training goal of training church leaders may well be met through the training and service opportunities offered in the preparation, presentation, and operation of a camp program. Camp provides an informal atmosphere to help a person "get started" in a leadership role, whereas the formal atmosphere of the church on Sunday may present an obstacle for some persons.
Various types of worship services, the openness, the interaction of personalities, the fellowship, and other activities - both planned and unplanned - in camp life supply ample opportunities for church members to be trained in the functions of a church.
Study sessions in a camp program relate to theology, Christian ethics, Christian history, and church polity and organization. These sessions also provide opportunities to interpret information regarding the work of the church and the denomination.
Church Relationships
Two levels are evident in church camping services relationships - the local church and the denomination. In the local church, church camping is represented by the recreation director on the church council. This person works with church officers and committees. At the Denomination, church camping cooperates with the Church Administration Departments in planning camping programs and in adapting principles and skills of church administration to fit the needs of camp administrators and their staffs. The media center also functions on two levels. In the local church or association, the media center should make available supplies and equipment needed by campers. The Library Department of most denominations assists church camping in developing audiovisual resources and printed materials.
The Church Architecture Department and church camping function together at the Denomination Level in assisting churches in their long-range camp planning and development. Church camping deals with philosophy and program development, and Church Architecture designs and develops camp facilities to adequately house and service the program. This service should be available for churches, associations, and state conventions.
External Relationships
Church camping at the Denomination level has utilized existing channels to inform and interpret the use of camping in the church. This process should continue, and new channels should be used as they are developed. Churches, together in associations, should explore and develop camp activities which are not possible or feasible for individual churches. State conventions should work to assist associations and churches in establishing, conducting, enlarging, and improving church camping.
Denomination seminaries, colleges, and universities also represent vital relationships. These institutions conduct research and studies in camping, and they train future camp personnel. It is imperative that these institutions provide and exchange information related to church camping. A curriculum in church camping could be established and coordinated. Camping events for skill training and accreditation of students in campcraft areas could be established. These events might occur during a short semester and take the form of field trips, combining a study of biology, geology, or one of the other earth sciences with camping.
An in-service training program needs to be developed between Denomination schools and the Denomination Conference Centers. Denomination schools should be encouraged to develop summer camp programs which would use our camps, assemblies, and Conference Center facilities. A seminary or college camping class could operate a week's camping program for underprivileged or delinquent youth. Church camping at the Denomination level should work with Denomination schools to help trained personnel find positions in the field of church camping.
A relationship with churches of different denominations should be developed and maintained to study the types of camping and camping techniques they develop and use.
Public schools, colleges, and universities also are involved in a relationship with church camping. There is an indirect but essential relationship through laymen who have been trained in camping skills and their use as tools of witness through church camping. These laymen should be involved, where possible, in using these skills to witness in outdoor education through the field of public education. Church camping should take advantage of the opportunity, whenever it is presented, to provide materials and leadership for camping activities sponsored by public education groups.
The Denomination Student Unions are another link in church camping's relationship to public educational institutions. The Denomination Student Unions should be assisted by church camping in the development of overnight, resident, and travel camping programs. The Denomination Student Union’s program could provide instruction in the uses of these techniques. Travel camping may be a method of living and traveling on a Denomination Student Union mission trip or convention trip. Day camping might be used as a part of the Denomination Student Union’s local mission involvement. Overnight or retreat camping may be used to establish a fellowship or unity in a Denomination Student Union group as school reconvenes. Resident camping is an excellent means of reaching international students during a holiday season or semester break.
The relationship with public education is a two-way street since church camping uses public education specialists. These specialists are needed to assist in the training of church camping leaders and for the development of the program. For example, teachers in the earth science field may help a camp layout a nature trail and establish an ecology program.
Church camping also works with community groups and agencies. Community leaders may be used as program personnel or for public relations and support. .
Community support should be sought for camp programs which use community facilities or which involve the community in any indirect or direct way. The community should be urged to participate in church camping activities. This participation is an excellent way to teach some people who might never enter a church building voluntarily.
If any community group is planning an outing, it should be assisted by church camping through the provision of leadership or facilities. The outing could be a public day camp or fishing rodeo for underprivileged children. This type of cooperation is priceless in terms of public relations and opportunities for witnessing.
The calendars of schools, community groups, and agencies should be taken into consideration when church camping is establishing its calendar. This process not only reduces conflicts in schedules but also provides opportunities for further cooperation. Some church camps provide overnight lodging for touring groups of youth attending a community event.
Organization of Church and Civic Organization Camping
Personnel
The design of church camping set forth in this book necessitates a structure of cooperation involvinq the following personnel.
ConnsuItants/Di rectors
1. A camping consultant in the Denomination or Civic Organization Board. – He/she should have the responsibilities of research and program design as well as the consultative duties set forth in this book and referred to as Church and Civic Organization camping.
2. A state recreation consultant in each of the state organizations. - Church and Civic Organization camping should be a part of his assignment. He should also participate in the National Recreation Lab or conference each year to update his training in the latest church camping methods.
3. An associational or area recreation director. Church and Civic Organization camping should be included in his/her assignment. He should be consulted on all associational or area wide activities which involve camping, camp skills, and/or camping techniques.
4. A camping director on the local church and organization recreation staff. - This person should be consulted concerning any Church and Civic Organization activities which involve camping, camp skills, and/or camping techniques. He/she should also lead in developing the Church’s and Civic Organization’s camping program and ministry. This person also makes budget projections and evaluates the church's camping program.
Special Projects Assistants
Special projects in Church and Civic Organization camping necessitate some or all of the following assistants:
1. Director of instructors. - This person is an examiner designated to approve candidates for their campcraft instructor's rating under the American Camping Association's program. (The American Camping Association of Bradford Woods, Martinsville, Indiana, is a nationwide camping organization which has developed a nationally recognized campcraft skills certification program. This program provides basic certification standards for those involved in Church and Civic Organization camping.) A director of instructors is necessary for a project if the campcraft instructor's rating is to be awarded to anyone on the project.
2. Campcraft instructor. - This person is a teacher/examiner who is qualified to instruct in all levels of the campcraft skills program outlined by the American Camping Association. He is necessary for a project if the campcrafter, advanced campcrafter, or tripcrafter ratings are to be awarded. However, if more than ten campers are in the course, he must have one assistant for every additional ten campers.
3. Specialists in the various forms and areas of camping. - For stress camping, a technical rock climbing instructor would be needed; for travel camping by canoe, a canoe instructor would be required, and so forth. A qualified first aid person should be on every trip.
4. Specialists in the earth sciences. - The particular type of camping experience would dictate which specialist would be most desired. Some types of camping trips might demand more than one kind of specialty. The addition of this person to a camping project adds a great deal to the project's value.
For travel camping, wilderness camping, backpacking, and stress camping trips, a trip leader is needed. This person may or may not be an instructor, but he must be qualified to lead in every aspect of trip organization, logistics, navigation, trail etiquette, first aid, and camping procedures. He may serve as trailmaster. But, if the instructor is designated as the trailmaster of a leadership training expedition, the trip leader would lead one of the smaller groups, or patrols.
Church and Civic Organization Program Organizations
Church and Civic Organization camping works in the divisional groupings in many ways. Take the Preschool Division as an example. Church and Civic Organization camping serves as a resource for training day camp personnel and for training Preschool workers in nature studies and nature hike techniques.
In the Children's Division, Church and Civic Organization camping may provide overnight camp-outs, day camp counselor training, nature-oriented object lessons, summer camps, all forms of camping programs, and camp curriculum materials for use in camps and retreats.
Church and Civic Organization camping provides the same services for the Youth Division as it does for the Children's Division, except in two areas. First, youth are trained as counselors for the day camps the children will attend. Second, church camping provides more advanced types of camping for youth in addition to the types mentioned for children. Travel camping, mission trip camping, and youth adventure camping (stress) are included. Also, Church and Civic Organization camping provides leadership training in all of these areas.
In the Adult Division, Church and Civic Organization camping trains leadership and promotes and conducts trip camping, wilderness camping, family camping, and resident camps.
The resident camps may be general in program material, with many subjects of study or sections of Bible study available. Some resident camps for adults will offer a program for the whole family; these may be termed "general" camps. Other resident camps for adults will be for a specific area of study like music or Bible study.
Senior adult camps also are growing in number and popularity. They are basically resident camp programs lasting three to four days.
Resources for Church and Civic Organization Camping
Human Resources
1. Special projects coordinators. - These leaders are continually developed through the training events each year at Rec Lab, the Conference Centers, and in the various state convention recreation clinics. Some of these people have progressed from the basic level of campcrafters through their instructor's ratings in a three- to four-year period.
Church and Civic Organization camping has worked with churches, civic and community groups, state conventions, and other agencies of the Church and Civic Organizations. in holding leadership courses to train and prepare leaders to conduct special camping projects.
Church and Civic Organization camping also prepares materials for camp leaders to use in their preparation.
2. Church and Civic Organization members. - Church and Civic Organization camping trains and develops Church and Civic Organization members to participate in camping activities.
This development and training of Church and Civic Organization members is conducted mainly through the youth and adult section camping classes during Recreation Week at the Conference Centers. Training also is conducted through state projects and pilot projects with individual churches.
Experience has shown that when one camp-out has been conducted safely and effectively, interest grows among the other Church and Civic Organization members and spreads to other groups.
The development and training of Church and Civic Organization members in camping also is supported by articles on camping in the materials featured in youthandrecreation.com and youthrec.com
3. Other special personnel. - Church and Civic Organization camping seeks other special personnel as participants and/or advisors for camping programs.
As mentioned earlier, outside specialists are needed to strengthen the content of all camping programs. The leader may be a skilled Bible teacher, a botanist, a meteorologist, or a senior adult who can instruct in the area of rope craft.
Church and Civic Organization camping also invites special personnel to participate in the camp program for their own enlightenment. You may invite a U.S. Forest Service Ranger to participate as an instructor in your camping course. If he is impressed with the quality of your course, he might welcome your resort witness teams later.
4. Church and Civic Organization members. - Through the total program of Church and Civic Organization camping, Church and Civic Organization members are oriented to the philosophical, theological, and practical value of the Church and Civic Organization camping program.
Through the efforts of the Church and Civic Organization Recreation Department, the state recreation consultant, and the recreation staff of the local Church and Civic Organization, members should receive adequate orientation.
The value of the camping program is most readily seen through ministry and outreach. These elements should be kept visible.
Physical Resources
1. Camping areas. - Church and Civic Organization camping needs an area, or permission to use an area, suitable for the particular camping program desired. For resident camps, the American Camping Association recommends campsites providing one acre per camper. This much area is not necessary for an assembly camp with a centralized program unless nature hikes, primitive camping, and nature-oriented activities are to be included in the program. For primitive, family, and day camps, a farm near the Church or Civic Organization might be available.
Campgrounds at some Denominational camps, in national parks, and in state parks will have sewer, water, and electricity connections for family camping vehicle hookups. Most commercial camps have these facilities.
Wilderness areas for wilderness camping may be located through the National Forest Service.
The National Forest Service, State Forest Service, National and State Park Systems, and some private companies with large land holdings maintain trails for nature study and backpacking.
2. Camping equipment. - Here is a listing of camping equipment which leaders need for practical use and for demonstration purposes:
Backpacking: Provide one pair of vibram lug sole hiking boots, two pairs of heavy wool boot socks, one pack frame (welded joints) with padded hip belt and shoulder straps, one water repellent expedition-type pack bag with four side pockets and no separators in the body of the bag, four small nylon stuff socks, Fiberfill II or Polargard sleeping bag, one large waterproof stuff sack, one nylon mountain tent (two-person), one rain fly, one hooded rain parka, one Duracell camp flashlight, one white gasoline stove (single burner), one nylon-zippered equipment sack, one Teflon skillet with a lid, one set of utensils for eating, pot grippers, compass, selected plastic food containers, one roll of "tear off" plastic bags, shovel, and first aid kit.
Stress camping: To the preceding list of backpacking equipment add a day pack (or summit pack), ice ax, crampons, two 150-foot sections of Goldline climbing rope, and technical equipment for rock climbing.
Primitive camping: To the backpacking equipment add a pole ax, two-pound hammer, wedges, saws, pruning shears, wire cutters, tin snips, a two-mantle lantern, and a sheath knife.
Travel and family camping: Add to the primitive camping tools a propane or gasoline stove (two or more burners), ice chest, dining fly, family-size tent, folding table, folding stools, cook kit, and a canoe (with paddles and safety equipment) if desired.
3. Camping supplies. - Supplies for Church and Civic Organization camping include: cordage (rope, string, binder twine), food samples (dehydrated, freeze-dried, concentrated, and so forth), first aid and medical supplies for demonstration and emergencies, and teaching supplies (area topographical maps, compasses, charts and demonstration appliances, and mimeograph materials for distribution).
Financial Resources
Any efficiently operated Church and Civic Organization camping program must have adequate financial planning and support.
1. Determining financial needs. - First, the camping director analyzes the projected costs of programs. Second, he should separate the costs into two categories: those costs to be paid by the institution, and those costs to be paid by the program participants.
2. Procuring financial resources. - First, the camping director submits a budget request to the recreation director. Second, the recreation director submits the budget requests to the stewardship or finance committee. Third, funding is requested through the Church or Civic Organization budget.
3. Using financial resources. - First, the camping director allocates funds based on budget projections. Second, request for special project funding is approved by the camping director and the recreation director.
4. Accounting for financial resources. - First, the camping director collects proof of expenditures (receipts, and so forth). Second, the camping director records these expenditures or gives the proofs of expenditure to the general bookkeeper. Third, the recreation staff ascertains that the money has been spent according to the wishes of the Church or Civic Organization as expressed through the budget.
Planning for Church and Civic Organization Camping Programs
Setting Objectives
The objectives of the Church and Civic Organization camping program are determined by the Church or Civic Organization, pastor or organization executive, recreation staff and camping director. Key factors in determining objectives are the philosophy of camping and the ministry you hope to accomplish through the program.
Achieving Objectives
Procedures for achieving these objectives should be established. Procedures would include personnel assignments, recreation staff meetings, camper preparation meetings, and orientation meetings for special projects.
Administrative Control of the Local Church and Civic Organization Camping Program
Desired Outcome
The desired outcome of the Church and Civic Organization camping program should be basic to the development of its philosophy. This desire should be determined by the Church or Civic Organization, pastor or organization executive, recreation director and camping consultant as they examine the needs of their organization.
Obtaining Data
The data required for the design of a group camping program and for proper administrative control of it should be determined by planning requirements, status of equipment and resources, available resources, and the size and schedule of the camping project. Some camping projects need nine to twelve months of preparation; others may need only a few weeks.
The data required for program design and administrative control is collected by the camping director. He receives his data from the camp or trip coordinator (trailmaster). Then, he transmits the data to the recreation director.
Responding to Data
1. The evaluation report of the submitted data and any suggestions should be sent back to the person who contributed it originally. A copy should be sent to each person who studied it previously.
2. The evaluation report also should be delivered to all other personnel directly or indirectly concerned, so that they may have the benefit of the experience.
1The Bible verses marked "TLB" or The Living Bible, are taken from The Living Bible, Paraphrased (Wheaton: Tyndale House Publishers, 1971). and are used by permission.
2Todd, Floyd and Pauline. Camping lor Christian Youth (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1963), p. 3.
3Carlson, Reynold E. "The Values of Camping" (Martinsville, lnd.: American Camping Association, 1975), p. 2.
4Peters, Raymond R. Let's Go Camping (Elgin, 111.: Brethren Press, 1945). p. 13.
5Goodrich, Lois. Decentralized Camping: A Handbook (New York: Association Press, 1959), p. 214.
6Carlson, Violet C. The Christian Educator's File (Chicago: Moody Press, 1954), p, 29.
7The amplified Bible, containing the amplified Old Testament and the amplified New Testament. 1987 (Jn 10:10). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation.
8Smith, Frank Hart. Reaching People Through Recreation (Nashville: Convention Press, 1973), p. 68.