A delegation of youth, leaders and parents from the South Western Texas Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America visited Costa Rica to participate in a week-long program of recreational and learning activities at the Manu Center Lodge.
The activity was organized by the Texas Synod´s Camp Crysalis, and hosted by the Costa Rican Lutheran Church (ILCO) which administers the Manu Center, located in a protected area of Costa Rica´s rain forest. As a jointly supported camp event, this international camp was “a first” for both partners.
Jay Miller, Director of Camp Crysalis, and Coordinator of the visiting group, explained the motivation behind the venture by saying:
“The mission of our camp ministry is to offer youth alternative options and community experiences through which youth, adults, and families can grow in their relationship with Christ, the church and the community. Our Synod has a companion relationship with the ILCO, and we wanted to offer a camp experience in partnership.”
For its part, the Costa Rican Lutheran Church, which operates the Manu Center Lodge as a spot for rest and recreation mostly for Costa Rican national groups, looked forward to hosting the delegation in order to explore the establishment of future camps, where youth from its companion Synod and elsewhere, could come together with Costa Rican youth for a shared experience.
“We see a huge potential for a cross-cultural initiative of this kind, in which young people get-together for building up their capacities and develop Lutheran Christian values, through recreation, different cultural expressions, and exposure to the community”, said Bishop Melvin Jimenez.
While the Costa Rican Lutheran Church has an ongoing program for Youth Formation, it does not yet have a formal camp ministry. Camp Crysalis, its leadership, and program experience, have much to share. “We are committed to the holistic formation of our youth and are very interested in organizing camp experiences in partnership,“ continued Bishop Jimenez. “Our church has a fantastic resource, the Manu Hostel Center, which offers a variety of services in a wonderful natural setting. Our hope is to use it for maximum benefit.”
The campers from Texas engaged in a week of work, recreation, exploration of the lush environment, and Bible study. A highlight for them was participating in local activities at the San Martin Community. They also joined the San Sebastian´s worship in its service for Costa Rican´s Mother´s Day. Their stay concluded with an evaluation that will be used to set future directions.
Autor: Comunicación y Relaciones