Teaching Kids the Faith Through Summer Camp Fun

Welcome to Good Shepherd Summer Camp!

This June, the Catholic World Mission team was able to support our mission in a fun and hands-on way. 

For two weeks, we stepped out of the office to co-host the Good Shepherd Summer Camp with Mary Our Queen parish. Alongside a dedicated group of volunteers, CWM led and organized daily talks, games, and activities for the children from families of Southeast Asian refugees and immigrants. Each day was centered on one of the seven virtues, and daily activities emphasized what it means to live these virtues according to our Catholic faith. 

The kids were taught the importance of fortitude when they were challenged to overcome their fears by learning handstands and navigating obstacle courses. Competitive games of flickerball and ‘capture the flag’ highlighted the value of justice, and on the feast day of St. John the Baptist, we discovered the power of Baptism as we charged the opposing team formidably armed with water squirters and pool noodles. 

“I’m so grateful for having had the opportunity to serve our kids through camp this year. It was such a joy and a blessing to help them get to know their Heavenly Father and Blessed Mother better these two weeks!” - Aly De Kroon 

“It was such a privilege to work alongside the volunteers and clergy at Mary Our Queen and to see the fruits of our labor reflected in the smiles of the children who attended the camp” - Blake Lowrey

Guiding the kids through a tour of the parish to admire the beautiful statues and paintings of saints, we shared stories of the saints’ lives and discussed the virtues of wisdom and prudence that they displayed. Donning our least-favorite clothing, we broke out brushes and acrylics to paint gourds and created bright Marian birdhouses popping with color and our favorite bible verses. Every day was a blast. 

It was a blessing to be able to provide a place for these kids to have a fun summer camp with their friends, to love and to serve them, and to lead them to a greater understanding of the gift of their Catholic faith and their identities as children of a deeply loving Father. 

Let’s keep all the Church’s children in our prayers! 

"A summer camp that strengthens children in the Catholic faith while achieving equity and access for families in need. It has been a privilege to be a part of such a fun and necessary resource each year." - AJ Morrissette 

“Each day offered the joy of witnessing young hearts grow in faith, curiosity, and kindness. Sharing meal-time prayers, playing games, exploring nature, and attending mass together were a reminder of God’s presence, and in these simple moments we were blessed to serve and hopefully inspire the next generation.  The Catholic summer camp was a beautiful gift to all who attended and volunteered.”  - Dawn Minecci 

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