Anna Burden
The first Northeast Camp Booyah created momentum for youth groups across our region! The thirty youth who attended this year, including five from CotC, did so not knowing what to expect. Two of these students were brand new to our group, one of whom is a friend who doesn’t attend CotC.
On the final night of Booyah, during a Eucharist service, Deacon Heather processed the Gospel to the middle of the room and started reading Matthew 6:25-34. Unlike other services, at this one, youth and leaders started reciting the passage with her. Some were stumbling over the words; others had the entire passage memorized. The whole week focused on this passage–it was preached on every day, turned into a picture puzzle for a game, and reflected on during solo time.
Many parts of this service felt familiar for the youth, but this time there was an overwhelming sense that it was for them. Not only this moment, but all of camp showed that the Church is for them. From this place of belonging, youth considered what it would mean to trust God with their anxieties and their longings for more and to seek His Kingdom first.
“Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit!” came the dismissal, and rejoice we did! Youth and leaders sang, danced, and performed skits in a talent show. Liddie and her friend recreated theme skits from the week about characters named Baby Babet and Betty Babet. “Babet” had become an unofficial greeting throughout camp, including at the passing of the peace during the final service.
So far, Booyah has definitely been my favorite part of my summer. I love being with other churches and of course being with my own. Spending time with Addi was so much fun and we grew so close to each other and in Christ. My favorite part of camp has to have been playing the games or playing 9 square. BABET ~ Liddie
Applause from the talent show died down, and music for a dance party started up! The floor was nearly shaking as every middle- and high-school student joined the party. The energy in the room around new friendships and inside jokes was a tangible reminder of God’s presence. This week wasn’t about games and skits; it was about belonging with God’s people.
At the very end of the night, as everyone was getting ready for bed, we named what was already clear from the week: the girl who was brought as a friend, knowing no one else, has been adopted into Church of the Cross.
Anna Burden is the Director of Youth Ministry at Church of the Cross and lives in Quincy with her family.
