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by Erica Helton, CAPTAIN –
CAMPERS ENJOY EARLY morning devotions at Del Oro’s family camp. |
In the infamous words of Hans and Franz, a.k.a. Captain Douglas Riley and Major Guy Hawk, “We’re here to pump you up!” And this is exactly what took place at the Del Oro Family Camp meetings, which included guest leaders Commissioners William and Marilyn Francis.
The weekend’s theme was “24-Hour Fitness” based on 1 Timothy 4:8. Individuals were challenged to “work out” their faith and “build-up” their spiritual muscles in order to face the challenges of daily holy living.
On the first night, families gathered for an evening reminiscent of campfires long ago. Commissioner Marilyn Francis, the evening’s speaker, encouraged everyone to “AIM for Perfection;” to become more like Christ every day in Attitude, Integrity, and Motivation.
On Saturday, individuals were given the opportunity to walk through a prayer labyrinth hosted by the Eureka Corps and to partake in morning devotions offered in a variety of languages. Commission-er William Francis then led two sessions of study on “A Disciplined Lifestyle.”
Later, corps set-up food booths and carnival games to raise money for World Services.
The day finished with a celebration service in which Reno Corps soldiers and new cadets Sean and Tiffany Smith, with son Adam, were given a grand send off to the School for Officer Training. Included in the evening’s festivities was a Lion Dance performed by members of the Oakland Chinatown Corps, special music provided by the Sacramento Korean Corps, and a time of personal testimony.
Sunday’s morning worship was Spirit-filled; Commissioner Marilyn Francis gave her testimony and shared a song she had written about her Savior’s love. Then Commissioner William Francis spoke from Acts 17:28 and challenged those listening to embrace a radical lifestyle, a radical calling, and a radical trust as only offered in a relationship with Jesus Christ.