It always seems to be that only when we get away from
our everyday surroundings do we encounter what has
always been there, but remained unseen.

Having the privilege of working at Cedarkirk has truly been a blessing – the work itself feels sacred. The number of people who say things change the moment they enter camp makes me envision an invisible box at the front gate where guests leave their artificial selves behind, allowing them to embrace their true selves during their stay on these 170 acres. There have been times when I have sat with groups and felt like I am intruding on their space as they share very personal pains. There have been times when I get to share in the tears that come with those deep belly laughs. This really is a place where people hold space for one another.

Though Cedarkirk is not on any 5-star accommodation lists, there are plenty of assets that make it a special and valuable place for countless people. It’s the fact that the designated spaces for worship aren’t found inside a building, but out in God’s creation, or the intentional decision to place round tables in our spaces for good meal conversation, games, and community building.

One of my favorite times in the calendar year is the training of staff prior to each summer camp season. Watching these young people commit to long hours with little pay just to give children the opportunity to grow into themselves is so awe-inspiring. All those who fear for the future of society need to spend time with summer camp staff and their fears will begin to melt. They give so much energy and love to create this sacred space.

Time after time we see in scripture where encounters with God happen in the wilderness, the desert, or atop a mountain. It always seems to be that only when we get away from our everyday surroundings do we encounter what has always been there, but remained unseen. When we play in the Alafia, listen to the bamboo swaying in the wind at the Prayer Garden, or sit under an oak draped with Spanish moss, we are resurrected, just like the ferns that come to life atop those very branches. We all need sacred spaces in our lives and I give thanks to God for the gift that is Cedarkirk.