Risk taking and trusting others are important lessons children grasp when learning the game of soccer. This summer campers at Faith Community Christian Reformed Church in Zillah, Wash., discovered how to apply these truths on both the soccer field and their walk with the Lord.
From June 19-22, 105 kids ages 5-12 spent evenings on the grounds of Faith CRC to participate in High Power Soccer Camp. Forty volunteers taught them dribbling, shooting, kicking, and scrimmaging.
Afterward, the children participated in The Zone, which included a time of worship, daily Bible stories from the book of Daniel, a related story of a real life athlete, and taking part in a giving project.
The children learned that Daniel was “coachable” as he grew up to follow the Lord and was “trusting” when he was put in the lion’s den. Dawn Loew, director of the soccer camp, said, “We took the theme from each of the stories to how you can be that way in your faith.”
Loew said she enjoyed the worship time with the kids. “Seeing those kids clapping and worshiping was really neat to see. Two thirds of our church was filled with kids and we are able to touch their lives even for four days.”
Soccer teams had a time of small group discussion and sharing lead by volunteer coaches. The children formed a bonding relationship with their coach since they spent the entire evening with him or her. “It intensifies the ability to connect them and they remember their coaches. Hopefully that is helping kids to bring out more and ask more questions…and feel more safe,” said Loew.
This is the third year that Zillah CRC has hosted High Power Soccer Camp and they plan to offer it again next year.
About the Author
Amy Toornstra is a freelance news correspondent for The Banner. She lives in Salem, Oregon.
