Camps and retreats are not only a lot of fun but are probably one the most impacting and life-changing things we do all year. There is something about getting away for a few days from the hustle and bustle of life that really makes a difference in students’ lives. It’s a great opportunity to build friendships and memories that will last. As you can probably tell by now I am super excited about retreats and camps and believe they are often turning points in student’s lives. I have many fond memories of summer and winter camps from my youth days. It was at a winter camp when I was 14 that my eyes were opened to what this whole “God thing” about. It’s not just about rules, regulations, church, or even the afterlife. I thought being a Christian was trying to be good enough person to qualify for heaven and God was waiting to strike me down if I messed up. What I found radically changed my view of God and what this life is all about. I gave me hope, purpose, and reason to get out of bed in the morning. It was pretty simple really…it’s about relationships. God wants to know me and I can know him. It’s not just some kind of fire insurance its about having meaningful relationships with God and people. That winter camp and other retreats like it kindled in me a passion that if I could help even one student really realize that eternal “LIFE” can start now then I could make an eternal difference.
We wanted to let you know about our upcoming summer retreat July 11th – 15th for all 6-12 graders from the current 2006-2007 school year. The cost is $225 dollars if you register with a $50 deposit by Sunday June 17th. Make checks payable to The Rock Church and give deposit payment as well as the camp registration form (linked below) to one of the youth staff by June 17th. The full amount is due Sunday July 8th. We do not want any student to not go just because of finances so talk to us if that’s an issue and we will work with you on a plan. We would love for as many students as possible to attend as it will be one of our biggest events of the year and be another opportunity to continue to build positive relationships with God and each other. Included with this letter is more detailed information and you can contact matt@therockchurch.net or any of the youth staff if you have further questions.
You should be getting more information in the mail by the end of this week. If you don't it probably means we do not have your mailing information. Send Laura or I a quick note with your student's name, address, phone, and email address and we will get that taken care of.

Hey, I came across your site as I was searching for summer camp information. We are working on a segment about summer camp memories. We would love for you to send in a video comment about your experience. The info is below.
ABC News wants to hear your memories of summer camp!
Send in your video comment (with camp photos if possible) and your story might be shown on our broadband channel. We want to hear real stories from real campers/instructors—the happy times and the horror stories.
It’s easy to send in your video submission via camcorder, cell phone or computer cam:
http://abcnews.go.com/US/BeSeenBeHeard/story?id=3271003
Posted by: Candice ABC Digital | June 20, 2007 at 12:57 PM