Reflections from Summer Camp 2025 in Bell Heath, Stourbridge

Walking back into summer camp after so many years away felt like stepping into a memory. The location may have changed but the emotions and echoes of my childhood summers remain the same. As a camper, this was the place where lifelong friendships were forged with fun, faith and late-night laughter. Returning now, not as a camper but as a youth leader, felt both familiar and completely new.

This time, my role wasn’t to simply receive – it was to give. Instead of following a leader, I had become one. That shift was both humbling and a little daunting. I caught myself remembering how I used to look up to my leaders, hanging on their stories and admiring their patience and joy. Now, the responsibility rested with me to help create those same safe, joy-filled moments for today’s campers.

It’s funny how camp hasn’t really changed, and yet it feels different because I have changed. The graces are still sung with the same gusto, the games are still filled with wild energy and dubious rules, and the Bible studies still spark deeper discussion, reflection and reverence. But what I see now is the work that goes into it all – the planning, the encouragement, the gentle reminders, the late nights ensuring every child feels included. As a camper, I only experienced the joy. As a leader, I get to witness the behind-the-scenes heart that makes that joy possible.

The most moving part was watching children experience the same moments that once shaped me. I saw them light up when they conquered their fears on the climbing wall. For me it was the high ropes course; nearly two decades later and I still regretted not being able to do it as a camper. This time I didn’t let my fear get the better of me and I felt such satisfaction and lightness when I completed it. I heard their voices rising in worship just as mine once did. And in Bible studies and simmer down, when they opened up about faith, questions, and life, I felt an overwhelming gratitude to be part of their journey – just as my leaders once were for me.

Returning as a youth leader was like coming full circle. It reminded me that the seeds planted in us as children often grow quietly until, years later, we find ourselves offering shade and strength to the next generation. Camp was where my faith took root, and now it’s a place where I can help others plant theirs.

Stepping back into this sacred space as an adult didn’t just feel like going back – it felt like going forward. Because now I see camp not only as a chapter of my own story, but as a living, ongoing story that I get to pass on. And that, perhaps, is the greatest gift of all.

Katie Groves-Bond

I hadn’t known what to expect and was a little surprised that my offer to be a leader (unfit and in my 60s) was accepted in the first place. But I was really surprised by how well the campers, and other leaders, received me and, looked after me, even preventing me from being soaked in the water fight!

The week was a revelation: watching campers overcome challenges on the high wires and other physical feats, whilst at the same time being almost incapable of getting out of their beds in the morning. My Bible Study on Joseph was interesting as I realised that several of the children had very limited knowledge of the story but were eager to contribute to discussions about his life and how aspects of it related to their lives today. Watching their reactions to the various Simmer Down activities in the evenings was a delight, from quiet drawing, to Yoga, and a Take-Time meditation by candlelight. As the brash mask of teenager slipped for even a few moments, their desire to know more about ‘faith’ was evident, and there were several quiet conversations during the week. Whilst I couldn’t join in with the more physical activities, I did have great fun learning the game of ‘Werewolf’ which we played on several evenings.

It was a real joy to connect with this group of young people, and I am more convinced than ever of the importance of this experience for young people in their faith journey. It was an exhausting but most enjoyable week and I hope I will be asked back another year.

Sue Groves

I really enjoyed my first time at summer camp. Even though I was a bit nervous before I went, when I arrived there all of my worries faded away.

We started things off with an ice breaker game called ‘The Name Game’. We had to think of something we liked with the same letter of our first name. I chose cats, so I said, ‘I’m Chris and I like cats.’ I’m glad I wasn’t last as I had six others before me. It was tricky but we worked together and got there in the end. This really helped us to remember everyone’s names and to find out something about each other. The first activity we did was the climbing-wall. Some people got to the very top. I got halfway up myself with encouragement from my team. After that we had a quick break and then it was the zip wire and high ropes. The next day we did rifle shooting. I managed to hit three cans. As well as doing activities we did Bible study in house groups. I was in Dober. The other group was Nitschmann. We studied Bible stories and had discussions. It was all very enjoyable. I look forward to next year or the year after. I’m definitely a summer camper.

Christopher Mack

This summer, we spent five unforgettable days at our Christian summer camp, and every single one was filled with excitement, friendship, faith and amazing food!

Each day was packed with activities that kept us smiling and cheering each other on. We went rock climbing and ziplining, pushing ourselves to be brave and trust God as we faced challenges high above the ground. We played basketball and had a big sports day, where the whole camp attended a friendly competition. We even got to try rifle shooting, which was a brand-new experience for many of us!

In between all the action, we enjoyed some incredible meals. From hearty breakfasts that gave us energy for the day, to delicious dinners that brought everyone together, the food was just as much a highlight as the activities. Sitting around the table with friends after a busy day made camp feel like one big family.

We also showed our creative side by working on posters for our house teams, proudly displaying our team spirit. But most importantly, every day we gathered for Bible study, learning more about God’s Word and growing deeper in faith. These times reminded us that camp isn’t just about fun, but about drawing closer to Christ and encouraging one another in our walk with Him.

By the end of the five days, we had made amazing memories, enjoyed incredible food, built lifelong friendships, and strengthened our faith. Camp wasn’t just a holiday, it was an adventure of faith, fun, fellowship, and food that we’ll carry with us long after summer ends.

Harrison Dickinson