by Sacred Playgrounds | Jan 4, 2022 | Camp and Culture, The Logic of Camp
Democracy is in peril. Not everyone agrees with this, of course. That, in itself, is part of the problem. Pope Francis had something to say about this in a December 4 speech. He called it “a retreat from democracy.” He reflected, “Democracy requires participation and...
by Sacred Playgrounds | Dec 1, 2021 | Parenting, Theology and Culture
The simplest and the greatest joy: time together with loved ones. This blessing was mine on Thanksgiving Day. We had not been together for two years, but there we were: gathered around a single table. Both of my parents were there. Both of my brothers were there,...
by Sacred Playgrounds | Aug 18, 2021 | Camp Visits
We made it up the mountain at midday. It was the day after camp ended. Most of the summer staff had already departed, and the rest were packing up. Exhaustion was in the air, almost palpably. I distinctly remember the feeling. After weeks of expending tremendous...
by Sacred Playgrounds | Jul 12, 2021 | Book Reviews, Stories from Camp, The Logic of Camp
At long last, a project that was nearly a decade in the making has made it to print! From the back cover: Sacred Playgrounds explores the wisdom of camping ministry for Christian education and faith formation, examining its rich history and fundamental characteristics...
by Sacred Playgrounds | May 11, 2021 | Camp and Church Leadership
Call stories are unique and complex. When I was a camp program director, it was a privilege to accompany people on their faith journeys. I heard call stories from visiting pastors, retreat participants, campers, and summer staff members. I saw many camp staff called...