Nearly 100 campers and youth helpers joined together for five days of faith, fun, and friendship as Corpus Christi Parish hosted its annual youth summer camp, Journeying with Mary as Pilgrims of Hope.
According to Deacon Gem Mella and Fr. Benoj Makkollil CMI (Corpus Christi Parish Priest) , the July 7-11 camp continues to play a key role in forming confident witnesses to the Gospel and nurturing the spiritual growth of young parishioners and forming them in faith through hands-on experiences.
These included Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, catechesis, crafts, and indoor and outdoor games. One of the highlights was “Water Day,” where children enjoyed slides, water balloons, and a refreshing mist under the sun.
Trudie Aberdeen, a longtime volunteer, helped shape the camp’s program.
“Once we choose the theme, I help plan the Bible passages and crafts that support the learning for the kids,” she said. “We try to make sure every part of the day is centered around that message.”
The camp is open to children aged 6 to 12, while teens 13 and up serve as youth volunteers. “Every group has an older child as a table lead,” Aberdeen explained. “They take on leadership roles and help guide the younger kids through the day.”
Aberdeen sees the camp as more than just a summer activity.
“Sometimes people feel nervous coming back to church later in life because they don’t know what to do,” she said. “We want to give kids the kind of experience that stays with them. We teach them prayers, involve them in Mass, and make sure they feel that the church is a place for them.”
With the support of nine catechists, 10 adult leaders, and 11 kitchen volunteers, the camp is part of Corpus Christi’s vibrant children and youth ministry.
During the school year, the parish offers weekly Children’s Liturgy of the Word and Catechism, attended by more than 100 children. Two children’s choirs are active, and monthly Youth Masses include roles for young readers, ushers, collectors, and junior altar servers.
To top off a memorable week, campers enjoyed meals from Jollibee and KFC, much to the delight of the children, especially those from the parish’s large Filipino community.
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[All photos supplied by: Lito Soco]
