Going into this time of camp truly feels different going into it a second time as I can focus less on the planning aspects of the internship and focus on building connections with the kids, while also building habits and working on useful skills for myself. Returning was something I wanted to do after last year as it's a blessing to continue to serve the Jesse Ketchum, Stone Church community, and give back to the community I grew up in. Coming into camp, there were goals I had set for myself to work towards and with the help of my fellow interns and Outreach Workers, I have been able to work on them this summer.
Building better Devotional habits and working to become more active were some of the goals I had in mind going into summer. Through goal setting during training and talking with the other staff, I see God’s blessings as I continue to grow in my faith, and as a person.
Being able to see God work through us and in the kids has also been a blessing. Seeing them grow from where some of them were throughout the school year in comparison to where they are now, in their journeys of faith is a blessing. Even seeing the kids who are coming to camp for the first time just becoming excited to listen to worship music or more engaged during bible lessons and small groups was such a heartwarming experience to see. Regardless if they were a part of the TCM program before this summer or not, I have been able to see small changes in all of them as camp continues and we get to know them a bit more. Whether planting seeds or helping them grow in other aspects of their lives, I can see God’s goodness and the work that is being done by Him through us.
Through training and the start of camp, I am reminded once again of God’s grace and how we are called to trust his plans for us. I feel truly blessed in being able to work in my position where I have a team that supports, and even helps me in my own goals of personal and spiritual growth while being able to help the children grow as well. Seeing their progress has been uplifting, motivating and makes me want to continue to serve the community and in my own growth. Through these experiences of serving, I feel like I can help others grow while also bettering myself, and I thank Toronto City Mission for the opportunity to do so.
