Life change happens best through the context of relationships. This is a phrase that we believe very strongly at CentriKid Camps. We talk about it, we encourage it, and we believe it.
During the summer, CentriKid teams build relationships with their team, campers, and adults. But connections are also built with college campuses and conference centers just by being there for a few weeks. I had the privilege of hearing this story from our site contact, Brian, while we were serving at the Georgia Baptist Convention in Norman Park this summer. Brian writes…
“There are times when we don’t understand the impact that you have on individuals as you go about life. This past summer our conference center hosted CentriKid Camps the last 3 weeks of July. Our folks really look forward to them being here. These college students who staff Centri-Kid are truly amazing. They arrive on Sunday and for the next 3 weeks literally don’t stop. This past summer one of our temporary help had the privilege of experiencing it firsthand. Angel had been with us since June and had experienced other camps and their staff. One day she asked me, ‘Mr. Brian, why are they different?’
I said, ‘Angel, what do you mean?’
She said, ‘The CK staff: they are different, so friendly and willing to talk.’
I said, ‘Well they are Christians and love the Lord and that in turn allows them to have joy.’ She gave me a kind of ‘deer in the headlights’ look.
I said, ‘Angel, they love Jesus and Jesus loves them.’ Her response was amazing.
She said, ‘Mr. Brian, I want what they have.’
I said, ‘Angel, are you a Christian?’ and she said, ‘no.’
‘Would you like to be?’
On July 22nd, I had the privilege of leading Angel to the Lord. I received this privilege because of the kind of staff that CentriKid hires. I am grateful for their walk and I know that Angel may never see these guys or girls again, but I know this she is eternally grateful.”
The ministry of CentriKid goes far beyond campers and adults; it reaches into the community, as well. Think about the impact your own ministry has on every person you interact with. What is your ministry doing to reach folks beyond your church walls?