Summertime Means Camp Time!

Summer in northeast Indiana brings with it one of the most formative opportunities for children and youth: Christian camp. The Lutheran community is blessed to support three outstanding year-round camps that offer enriching summer programs. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) operates Camp Lutherwald in Howe and Lake Luther in Angola, while the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) operates Camp Lutherhaven in Albion.

These camps become vibrant centers of learning, growth, and faith during the summer months, welcoming young people from across the region to experience God’s creation, form lasting friendships, and grow in their walk with Christ. Over the years, The Lutheran Foundation has supported these camps through a variety of grants, including “Camperships” – which provide assistance to give children the opportunity to experience the life-changing joy of camp.

At camp, kids grow spiritually through daily Bible study, worship, and prayer, learning to rely on God and deepen their understanding of His Word. As Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  This foundation in faith offers strength not only during the camp experience but throughout the journey of life.

Camps also provide many other benefits. Engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and team sports promote physical wellness and counters the sedentary lifestyle many children face today. Time away from screens and social media gives campers a chance to reconnect with nature, reduce stress, and simply be present.

Just as important is the emotional and social growth that takes place. Through shared experiences, campers build friendships, develop empathy, and gain confidence.  Trying new activities and stepping outside of their comfort zones encourages resilience and self-esteem. Surrounded by caring counselors and peers who share their Christian values, campers feel safe to express themselves and explore their identity in Christ.

The camp experience nurtures the whole person – body, mind, spirit – and helps form faith-filled, confident young people ready to serve God and others.  The Lutheran Foundation is honored to help make this experience possible for so many youth in our region.