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PASTOR’S COLUMN
I am writing in this in mid-July from the shores of Flathead Lake. I'm at our Lutheran Bible Camp along with several of the younger members of Christ Lutheran. The last time I went to camp with a group from Libby was in the summer of 1979, and the last time I went to FLBC with kids from any church was 1986. Needless to say, some things have changed. Many things, though, are much the same as I remember them.
What's new? There are new activity areas, and some of the old areas have been updated. The recently expanded kitchen/dining area is fabulous. Camp songs have continued to evolve. I can remember singing standard hymns at Bible camp as a child. By the 70's and 80's the songs had become more lively and engaging for kids. Now many of those songs are still used, but newer songs have introduced more syncopation, livelier actions and "scat-type" vocalizations to make the songs even more engaging. Yet these new-style songs are still based on a solid core of scripture and sound Christian faith.
What hasn’t changed? The camp staff (mostly college-age Lutherans from around the country) are talented, energetic, and committed to the campers' well-being and to the Christian faith. They are an inspiration and a sign of hope for our church and our nation. Our own Kara Rekin is here for her final time— she has accepted a position coordinating youth programs for a Lutheran Church in Long Lake, Minnesota. The program of camp week is well-planned around solid Christian themes. The schedules for 180 on-site campers run as smoothly as a well-oiled machine. Our CLC campers are the same inquisitive, wonderful creatures of God as I remember from before. They are eager to have fun and willing to learn. They meet new friends, form meaningful relationships with counselors, and learn to appreciate God's blessings in a deeper way. This week's experience will be an important factor which helps shape their outlook on life for years to come. (See some pictures from camp on the youth page.)
Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp is truly a very special place because of its very special people and because of the very special Word of God which is at its core. Thanks to everyone who gave or pledged support to the "Firm Foundations" campaign which will help keep this wonderful resource strong for years to come.
Yours in Christ,
Steve Benson, pastor
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