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Camp Ewalu In the rhythm |
Camping is Still Camping at Ewalu! What began forty years ago in tents is still taking place primarily in tents. They are different tents -- pitched in different places -- but still tents. OK, so maybe they're teepees or covered wagons in addition to tents, but the concept is still the same - outside, under the stars . . . . roughing it. About 75% of those who participate in the summer program at Ewalu have only a foam pad separating their sleeping bag from the ground or from the floorboards of the Covered wagon. The morning campfire provides both warmth and the means for cooking breakfast. The evening campfire is the gathering point for worship, discussion and contemplative moments. Clothes smell like smoke -- and mosquito repellent. Many refer to Ewalu as "rustic." That description might have been almost universal in camping ministries years ago, but now it's becoming unique. And "rustic" is the likely description of Ewalu for years to come. While "resistance to change" might usually be considered a negative attribute, at Ewalu it's a source of pride. The board of directors, staff, campers, and counselors all seem quite content to continue Ewalu’s time-honored programs that keep one (literally) close to the earth and in touch with God’s creation. The youngest campers -- those who will be entering 3rd grade -- begin their camping years with a half-week experience. That program is called Mini-Camp. Those entering fourth grade are called Explorers. They sleep in cabins on bunk beds, but, after that, it’s out in the woods in one way or another. Those entering fifth grade, the Trailblazers, sleep on cots in remote shelters. Native Americans, sixth grade, sleep in teepees and the next age level, the Pioneers, sleep in Covered wagons. Night Camp participants sleep in a large tent and most of the out-trip programs sleep in two to four-person tents. Yes, the ground is hard. Yes, sleeping bags often get wet in a rainstorm. Yes, they often come home tired and dirty -- but along the way the experience creates special bonds with the other campers and the counselors, and together they create stories and memories that last a lifetime. Most importantly, being “out there” includes a powerful spiritual element. There are plenty of noises which make one sit up in one’s sleeping bag and say, “What’s that?” There are also the long deep silences -- the sound of the Creator at work, the sound of God touching us. That bond is strengthened too. Camp is still camping at Ewalu. There’s nothing luxurious about it, but the experience is priceless. By Dale Goodman
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