There’s no need for Caledonia (Mich.) Christian Reformed Church to go back to the drawing board after the success of its recent arts camp. The weeklong event attracted 131 kids from the church and the community.
In addition to a special presentation about integrating the arts and faith, children attended two different classes during the August event.
This summer was the first time that Caledonia CRC held an arts camp. The church’s pastor, Rev. Scott Greenway, explained, “We want to emphasize the inherent value that everyone has in the sight of God and how God changes us to be a masterpiece.”
Teachers from both inside and outside the congregation led 26 various classes. Popular choices included cake decorating, woodworking, pottery, and martial arts.
The sewing on cards class, led by member Hope Veltman, was so popular that it continued to meet throughout the rest of the summer. “I love sharing what I have a passion for,” said Veltman. “It’s turned out to be a unique ministry.”
Greenway explained that the camp “affirms kids in that God has made them a masterpiece, but it also allowed kids to showcase their talents in a way that they might not [usually] be able to.”
Caledonia CRC charged a fee in order to cover the costs of materials and food. However, the church made scholarships available, which allowed many children to attend who might not otherwise have been able to.
Kylie Groot, 14, from Dutton, enjoyed meeting new kids while attending the lyrical dance and painting classes. “It was lots of fun to get to know [other kids] because you have to work with them,” she said.
Plans for next year’s arts camp are already in the works.
About the Author
Ryan Struyk was a former Banner news correspondent for classes Grand Rapids South and Thornapple Valley.
