SAN ANTONIO, Texas—New Beginnings, the San Antonio congregation, was host for a camp-out March 21 and 22 at rustic and serene Bastrop State Park for any families that included teen or preteen members (plus anyone else who felt young-at-heart). About 40 people from San Antonio, Austin and Victoria, Texas, attended.

In past years, WCG families—especially young people—from central and south Texas built bonds through inter-church sports events, camp-outs, dances and other activities. However, in the last few years, the congregations have had little interaction, and former relationships have weakened. The purpose of the campout was: "To recapture a connection among the youths and families of these congregations along with fun and rest and relaxation."

Families helped other families pitch their tents, some being set up at midnight by the beams of flashlights. A spaghetti dinner and a full-course breakfast cooked by Don Persyn helped keep the campers happy. Volleyball, Frisbee golf, capture the flag and a series of goofy games added to the enjoyment and intermixing of strangers-soon-to-be-friends. Meaningful discussions around the glow of the camp fire inspired some to keep talking into the wee hours of the morning.

The work of Pastor Rodney Schuler and his wife, Paula, and Rocky Conrad, youth minister, was worthwhile. The reconnection had begun. Rodney and Paula Schuler and Lee Berger.

Copyright © Grace Communion International, 2003