As the cast and crew broke down the set, put away props, and hung up costumes for the last time, my head swirled with thoughts. Gratitude for the experience. Love for everyone involved. Amazement at the support the show received... and wonderment at where the time went. The final performance of Jonah & The Wave Breakers marked the end of an almost four-month journey for most of the cast and crew. But for me, it began over two years ago.
Read MoreSpending quality time together is very important to the VonRabenaus. They’ve enjoyed many a family vacation—sometimes up north to see snow, sometimes across town to visit Disney, but usually to the beach. And they’re excited to add Family Camp to their wide repertoire of traditions.
Read MoreCollege student Evan Holsonback does not like fake stories, and none of his friends seem to, either. So to honor them, I’m going to tell you a real story: theirs.
Read MoreYou wouldn’t be surprised to hear 4 and 5 year-olds Caroline and Amelia Frye explain how tall and fast the waterslide at Family Camp was. Nor would it seem odd that they had a favorite camp song that they’re happy to sing for anyone who’s interested (it’s about bananas and it has some pretty cool hand motions to go along with it). However, it was the answer to the question, “What was your favorite part of Family Camp?” that made me stop and realize what a special experience the Frye family had.
Read MoreRobin had spent four months considering joining the Base Camp team, but says that she could always find reasons to put off taking “the plunge”. But once she made the decision to volunteer, it was clear to those of us already serving that she had all the characteristics that we look for in a Base Camp leader.
Read MoreStepping into that neon green, loud classroom for the first time was a little overwhelming. Kids were laughing and yelling—some playing at the air hockey table, while smaller groups gathered around the foosball table or played board games on the floor. I was told that I could just observe what happened in The Lodge, and not to feel pressured to participate in discussions. So I kept my distance and watched as fourth and fifth graders danced to songs, played silly games, and learned about Jesus.
Read MoreSitting on the floor in a circle, holding coffee cups and wearing their volunteer shirts, the elementary small group leaders at our Waterford 11 a.m. service had gathered for their weekly team meeting. I casually made a suggestion that was met with great enthusiasm— a goodbye book for the Rapp family. As we discussed the details that morning, Ezekiel Rapp came bounding into the room, early as usual and too excited to wait. He tapped the shoulders of Ms. Sierra, his special-needs-buddy, and his small group leaders. He was eager to play.
Read More“Why are there signs up promoting The Fringe?” I overhead the question asked somewhat urgently the first Sunday that Summit’s production of The Road to Zamboria had audition posters hanging up around the church. From the same team that produced the largely successful The Prodigal Musical last year, comes this tale based on the Biblical parable of “The Good Samaritan”, the signs announced.
Read MoreSummit has been my church home since 2012. After about a year of regularly attending service, I began to feel the pull to dig in, connect, and serve. Just before the summer season, at the beginning of a service, Deanna McLellan came on stage and spoke about how they would love to welcome new volunteers for Team Summer. I turned to my husband Dan and said “I want to do that!”.
Read MoreI’ve never written a blog before, but when I was approached to write something about my experience as a volunteer in Base Camp, I was excited to try something new! So, here it goes…
Read MoreA few weeks ago, I walked into service at Summit Lake Mary, not quite sure what to expect. Bulletins were handed out at the door, the lights dimmed, and Worship Coordinator, Josh Pearson, began to play just like any other Sunday. Campus Minister, O.J. Aldrich, sat near the front, preparing to give the sermon, and the sound booth was staffed with the lighting and sound volunteers. However...
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