More than 200 kids spent a week on the campus of Bluefield College this summer, July 30 through Aug. 3, as part of a Southern Baptist youth camp called Centri-Kid.
The youth, in grades four through seven representing a dozen churches from three different states, took part in high-energy worship services, featuring upbeat contemporary music with flying beach balls and drama, interactive and kid-friendly Bible studies and adventure recreation.
“It's just a great way to learn about Christ in a fun setting,” said Emily Woodward, assistant director for Centri-Kid at Bluefield College, about the Centri-Kid experience. “It's not the same as attending church.”
The students also participated in a variety of tracks, some related to sports like archery, flag football, volleyball, wiffle ball and cheerleading, and others related to special skills like baby-sitting, cooking, photography and acting.
They began their day with “I Can't Wait,” a “revved-up” morning celebration that sets the pace for the remainder of the day, followed by recreation time, a Bible study and then track sessions. Each day ended with an evening worship service, group devotions and “party time.”
“All the activities are designed to teach the campers godly characteristics, such as serving and helping,” Woodward said. “It's relationship-driven where counselors are able to invest time in the kids. The kids learn through activities and through conversations with the staff.
With a camper-to-counselor ratio of five to one, the kids got personal attention from the staff, a group of highly qualified college and seminary students from across the country, who have a passion for ministering to children.
”We're excited that Bluefield College can be a part of what God is doing in the lives of so many children,” said Pam Branch, director of special programs at BC.