Camps connect young Christians

Faith, fellowship and fun: these are the key components of LCANZ camping ministries that continue to connect young Christians to Christ and one another.

Tens of thousands of young people have encountered the love of Jesus at camps run by Lutheran youth organisations over many decades, including Lutheran Youth of Queensland (LYQ) and LCA South Australia–Northern Territory District’s Blueprint Ministries.

For almost 70 years, LYQ has been transforming lives through its vibrant and Christ-centred holiday camping ministry across Queensland, LYQ’s Camping and Events Lead Rebecca Cronau says. She says the ministry exists to ‘grow connected, hope-filled people’.

‘These camps are far more than just a fun getaway – they are intentional spaces where young people encounter Jesus, build lasting friendships and grow in faith,’ she says. ‘LYQ does this by demonstrating Christ’s love, investing in young lives and encouraging growth.’

LYQ’s holiday camps, including Kids Camps, Christian Life Week (CLW) and Blast Camps, are designed to meet young people where they are, whether they’re exploring faith for the first time or deepening their discipleship journey.

Rebecca says that at the heart of LYQ’s camping ministry is the generational generosity of more than 160 volunteers who serve as leaders, chaplains, pastors, camp parents and camp grandparents. She believes their energy, time and love help make each camp a unique, life-changing experience for young people across Queensland.

‘Each camp is prayerfully planned and led by trained volunteers who create safe, inclusive environments where campers can experience Christ’s love, be challenged and championed, and feel a deep sense of belonging,’ Rebecca says.

LYQ’s CLWs and Kids Camps are a blend of Bible study, worship and outdoor adventure. Rebecca says that campers often describe these camps as a ‘recharge’ for their faith and that they return home with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to God.

Rebecca describes Senior Blast and Junior Blast camps as ‘adventure-based and evangelistic in nature’, adding that they ‘gently introduce Jesus through relationship-building, offsite activities, shared experiences and fun’.

She says the impact of the camps is best captured in the words of the campers themselves.

‘Going on these camps has been a life-changing opportunity for me,’ said one Senior Blast camper. ‘I’ve learned so much over all the camps I’ve attended. It’s helped me grow as a person, but most importantly, it’s helped me grow closer to God.’

Rebecca says that one Year 3 camper learnt how to read the Bible through the camp. Another camper shared, ‘Camp is my safe place with all my friends. I made many new friends and connected with people I haven’t seen in years. This was the best – thank you!’

One Year 4 camper reflected, ‘Camp has impacted me by stepping out of my comfort zone and being able to explore physically, mentally and spiritually. Thank you for helping my faith in God grow …’

The camping ministry experience has been similar in South Australia, where Blueprint Ministries facilitates around 10 camps each year for the LCANZ’s SA–NT District.

Dan Kitson, Camping and Events Coordinator, says he and Jeanette Mann, the district’s Child, Family, Youth and Young Adults Team Leader, feel blessed to facilitate camping ministry and regularly witness God’s presence in powerful ways at these gatherings.

‘When Jeanette and I are out visiting camps, we can see God at work and the Spirit moving in the hearts of both the campers and the leaders,’ Dan says.

He says that a consistent theme shared by campers and leaders alike is the deepening of faith and flourishing of fellowship.

‘I can attest to the strengthening of faith and fellowship that happens at camps, as it happened to me! Having been fortunate enough to be in camp bands, I found myself having goosebump moments when all the campers and leaders would sing together, and I could look around the room to see long-term friends alongside new friends as we praised our God for the love he’s shown us.’

He says camps typically include small groups, in which leaders help guide conversations and build relationships, providing space for campers to explore their faith while also having fun and releasing energy through games and activities.

Dan adds, ‘We feel blessed as servants in this space to see the growth that campers show time and time again as Jesus constantly makes his presence known, empowering leaders to listen and be patient despite a severe lack of sleep, and helping campers feel welcome who might not feel welcome in many other places.’

The ministry not only impacts the campers themselves, but also their families. One parent shared, ‘[The camp] created a safe space for my child to make new friends and explore her connection with Christianity. I feel this camp provided a turning point, [increasing] confidence and passion for Christ. We are really grateful to the church and the leaders involved – thank you.’

Dan says the Blueprint team is privileged to witness so many moments of spiritual transformation. ‘We hear over and over again how camping ministry has been a blessing in people’s lives – how it strengthens faith, creates lasting friendships and offers a glimpse of God’s love through community.’

‘Our prayer is that this ministry and God’s family can continue to thrive as we welcome in those who need some heavenly love – forgiving each other and discipling each other as we stumble along the journey of life as one.’

Find out more about Lutheran Youth of Queensland at lyq.org.au and Blueprint Ministries at blueprintministries.org.au