Hope Christian Combines Sports and Art

From July 26 through July 30, the Hope Christian Church is hosting a sports and art camp. The camp is for kids aged 4-12 to play and learn, all steeped in messages taught through the Bible.

In conjunction with Uncharted Waters Sports Ministry (UW), a "high-energy Bible based sports camp", the Hope Christian Church has set up a fun-filled series of afternoons that hosts some 90 kids with 50 teen and adult volunteers.

"This is the second year we've done this," said Camp Director Ruth Chamberlain. "Our goal is to use sports and art to share Christ with kids. We are offering basketball, soccer and cheering, along with art, music and drama. We know a lot of times with families, Jim might like soccer and Annie might like art, so we offer something for everyone."

The kids are grouped by age and activity, break for a 20-minute "huddle time" where they are informed about the message behind the activities. Today's message was "Be Willing To Change" and applies both to the sport or the artistic medium the kids have chosen to explore. 

The kids then go play or work on their art and are later brought back for snacks and a half-time show where everyone participates in song and dance. These half-times are written by UW concerning Biblical messages.

"It's really high energy, we get everyone moving around a lot," Ruth said of the half-time show. After half-time, another round of play and art takes place before the camp wraps up for the day. 

"We keep the cost really low," Ruth said, explaining the price behind the program. "You want to have as many kids come as possible. Through the generosity through some of our church members we have scholarships and financial aid, so everyone can have a good time."

"We're interdenominational," said Michael Bradford, servant leader of the church. "[We hosted the event] in order to be more present in the community. In combination with UW, we have orchestrated the whole program. Some of the UW staff is working in conjunction with members of our church to tailor this to our specific community."

Camp member, six-year old Mary Fenberg, enjoys the camp and the opportunity to score goals.

"They really help us improve our skills, like dodging and keeping the ball," Fenberg said. "I like to score goals and I like to run."

"I like having fun and the counselors are really nice," said camp participant, Savannah Battle.