Árdís - 01.01.1949, Page 22

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ÁRDÍ S
continues but can be changed to any other spot in camp—on the
athletic grounds, or at Council Circle or beside the pool or in some
wild spot in the woods. No matter where this daily evening service
is held, the routine is the same. Part of the hike is free and easy
with conversation and singing, but the last approach is made in
reverent silence. A cabin group may be in charge of the service
and the boys have made careful preparation in the choice of hymns,
in prayers and in the scripture readings. The short message is
usually delivered by a divinity student or a minister. As the service
progresses the sun sinks slowly out of sight, behind the hills. Then
with daylight fading, the day draws peacefully to a close and God
seems very near to each one of us.
Back to camp, through the shadowy woods, the evening
activities begin. These might be a treasure hunt, a play given by
a cabin group or a bonfire party. Whatever it is, there is much
laughter and jollity.
Soon Taps are heard from Ira Wilson’s bugle and the fun is
over. Only minutes to get ready for bed—a short devotional service
in each cabin led by their group leader—this may be Bible reading
or a hymn sung, poetry read and a prayer—all binding together
this small group as one family.
So ends a day at Nawakwa—one of many such days and every
day filled with interest and happiness—a day full of contrasts—
play and study — rest and activity — uproarious noises and deep
silences — and a knowledge of God’s love and goodness weaving
into every hour.
The cabin lights go out, one by one, and soon the silence of
night rules over all.
I leave you to judge if such a camp as this is not actively
engaged in Home Mission Work. You will agree that to help mould
character and, through God’s Love, implant in the young heart a
desire to serve Him by word and deed is Home Mission Work in
its highest form.
Surely results must show from such training as this for the
sixteen hundred young people who pass through this experience
each summer.
Three years ago the Lutheran Women’s League opened a
camp with this same purpose and with these same aims in mind.
It is only with the enthusiastic help of many, that this camp can
thrive and realize this purpose and these aims. Our camp executive