By Lisa Penzo, Camping Minister

This spring, children and leaders gathered at Kasota East Camp for a joyful and meaningful weekend of community, creativity, and connection.

Grounded in the spirit of Acts 2:42–47, campers explored what it means to be a community that shows up for one another — sharing meals, learning together, caring for each other, and finding joy in belonging.

From the moment campers arrived, there was a sense of something special unfolding — a space where both returning and new children quickly found their place. Friendships formed, laughter echoed, and by the end of the weekend, many were already asking when they could come back.

Rooted in the spirit of Eat. Sing. Play. Imagine!, the weekend was filled with hands-on activities and shared experiences. Campers explored the outdoors on a nature walk, tried their hand at felting, and worked together through team-building challenges and creative “spider web” activity. There were moments of planting seeds, storytelling, games, and plenty of laughter woven throughout.

At the heart of it all was community — seen in shared meals, cabin conversations, and the simple joy of being together.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our youth leaders and adult leaders, whose presence, care, and energy helped create such a welcoming and inclusive environment. We are also deeply grateful to Kasota East Camp for their hospitality and partnership in making this weekend possible.

It truly was a weekend many didn’t want to leave.

We are already looking ahead with excitement and looking forward to next year, when we will gather again to continue building this growing community.