June 20 – 24, 9 a.m. to Noon
Review: Summer Celebration 2011
It was another amazing year! Thanks to the amazing volunteers and nearly 500 campers! Glory be to God!!! May there be much good fruit in these kid’s lives.
Photographers:
Kirsten DeWeber - http://www.kirstinrosephoto.blogspot.com
Ellie Berry - http://www.elliebphotos.com
Nicki Jackson - http://www.nicolemphotography.blogspot.com
and Rebecca Maka
Special thanks for the slideshow to Caleb Barker with help from Chris Porter, Josh Davis, Brielle Nelson, and Mike Bradshaw
Registration Update
Of our 500 camper slots, only 40 remain.
You can register online anytime today, Saturday or Sunday.
On Monday at 8:00AM there will be walk-in registration for any slots that are still available.
We hope to see you there!
Handmotions for “Love God With All You Are”
Verse 1:
God gave commands
To show us how to live for Him
To teach us to do what is right
He gave them all
According to his perfect plan
And each one is important to obey
Pre-Chorus:
There is one, God holds above the rest
A command, God says is the greatest
Chorus:
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Verse 2
Who’s kept the Law?
Each of us has broken it
And we deserve the punishment of God
But God sent His Son
To show us true obedience
Jesus kept the law for you and me
Hand Motions for “Obey Dad and Mom”
Chorus
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-bey Dad and Mom! (REPEAT)
Verse1
God gave dad and mom to me
To guide me in authority
To help me grow in godliness
It’s the first commandment with a promise!
Verse2
When I think I know better than them
I wanta go my way straight into sin
I better stop and think Commandment 5
Following it will keep me alive!
Verse3
When I choose to honor what they say
God will bless me each and every day
Their words will keep me far from sin
Obeying my parents is always a win!
Outro
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom – Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
Summer Celebration Weather Report
The weather report is looking pretty good for the week of the camp. I trust we will be able to be outside for our competitions of body ball, capture the flag, squirt, and “the race”.
“God, please give us wonderful, sunny weather!” - that’s a prayer of mine. You can join me in asking God for great weather. I’d appreciate that.
Only 5 days (that’s 120 hours, or 7,200 minutes, or 432,000 seconds…431,999 seconds…431,998 seconds…) left until we start the celebration.
I can’t wait!
-Mr. B
Here’s what weather.com is projecting for the week of the camp:
Introducing The TREE HOUSE GANG
Hand Motions for “Don’t Steal”
Verse 1:
There are things that we want
Things we don’t have
Things that’d be easy to reach out and grab
But we know, that would be stealing
We could be sneaky
And no one would see
We’ll never be happy with dishonesty
Cause we know, Jesus you see me
Pre Chorus:
So we want to do what’s right
Even when we’re out of sight
Chorus:
We will not take what is not ours
All we need you provide
Though someone has what I desire
Your Word says
Don’t steal, Don’t steal, Don’t Steal (Kid’s echo)
Help me to obey
Verse 2:
Instead of us stealing
We’ll do what is right
It’s not always easy
It’s so hard to fight
But we know
Jesus is with us
His power is great
He knows we are weak
He’ll be there to help us
In our time of need
We will not
Steal from others
Pre Chorus:
So we want to do what’s right
Even when we’re out of sight
Slideshow Remembering SC’10
There’s only 11 more days until we gather together for another amazing Summer Celebration!!! I can hardly wait!!!!
For those of you less familiar with the camp, I’ve included our end of camp slideshow. This will give you a glimpse into some of the activities at SC. Enjoy!
Hand Motions for “No Other God”
Time to teach you a new song with the hand motions! This one is called “No Other God” and teaches us the 1st Commandment from Exodus 20.
Verse 1:
God is the one who made the earth and the sea
And every single thing that your eyes have ever seen
He made us too, and He made you to be someone who will obey Him for eternity
For there’s no God but God and He will have no equal
Chorus:
God is the one who leads me
Like He led His people out of Egypt
God is the one who saves me
Like he did for Moses at the Red Sea
I will put Him first for He is God!
Verse 2:
God is the one who meets our every need
He gives us clothes to wear and the food that we eat
He gave His Son who died to save me from my sin
So I could know forgiveness and now live for Him
For there’s no God but God and He will have no equal
Bridge:
“You shall have no other god but Me”, You said 3x
(This is what I’ll say) “I will have no other god but You!!!”
Hand Motions for “No Idols”
Verse 1:
There’s a lot of cool stuff on the earth
None of it comes near God’s worth
Cause He created everything we see
Like you and me.
And though it’s ok to love my things
They turn to idols when we put them before the King
We’re not, made to praise them both
Pre-Chorus:
Jesus help us to love you the most
even more than the things we own
Chorus:
No, No, No, No, No
We will not bow to idols
No, No, No, No, No,
We will not put our things before You
You must be the greatest in our lives
Nothing else could ever satisfy
No we will not bow to idols
Verse 2:
Three guys from a long time ago
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego
Risked it all when they refused to bow
To a golden idol
But you see God was on their side
He made sure they got out of the fire alive
And they, praised the one who saved them
Pre-Chorus:
God helped them to love Him most
Even though they could have been toast
Singing and Hand Motions
Singing at Summer Celebration goes far beyond just opening your mouth and saying words to melody…we get the whole body involved. Each year we develop hand motions and simple dance moves that the campers can easily learn to complement the content of what they are singing. Oh, and the kids love it!
I’m enjoying all these new songs from the “Love God With All That You Are” cd teaching us The Ten Commandments. One of the songs that Mrs. B has been singing around the house is, “We Have All That We Need” on the 10th Commandment. Thanks to the work of Josie Bowers and Christine Hoffmann we now have hand motions to go along with our singing.
Over the next week I will post a song a day where you will be able to both listen to and learn the hand motions for these songs. Do your best to learn them at home with friends, with Dad and Mom, with your dog….whatever it takes.
Here’s our very first song to learn, “We Have All That We Need”. Give it a listen and learn those fun motions.
Chorus:
We have all
That we need in God
He’s our greatest treasure
Our biggest prize
We have all
That we need in God
Since we have Him
We won’t covet other people’s stuff
Verse 1:
Sometimes we feel
We don’t have enough
To be happy we need more
And more stuff
But in our lives
It’s not about our things
God You’re all we need
Verse 2:
When our friends have
The things we want
It is oh so hard
To be content
But Scripture says
God is worth more
Than all that we
Could ever own
A Personal Invitation from the Adventure Class of Discovery Land
See you in 14 days!!!
Preview of Take Home Cards
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” James 1:22
We want the Word of God to be taken home and applied from each lesson at Summer Celebration. To help make this happen we have developed take-home cards for each day. Check them out below:
The Greatest Commandment Song
Did you know that Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment is? The scribes ask Him and Jesus clearly answered. You can read all about it in the gospel of Mark 12:28-31.
“Which commandment is the most important of all? Jesus answered, The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”
So we wrote a song about this that we can sing together at Summer Celebration 2011!!! Check it out below.
Verse 1:
God gave commands
To show us how to live for Him
To teach us to do what is right
He gave them all
According to his perfect plan
And each one is important to obey
Pre-Chorus:
There is one, God holds above the rest
A command, God says is the greatest
Chorus:
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Verse 2
Who’s kept the Law?
Each of us has broken it
And we deserve the punishment of God
But God sent His Son
To show us true obedience
Jesus kept the law for you and me
Ryan Kelley and Mike Bradshaw (c) 2011 Summer Celebration Band
Commandment #2 “No Idols”
Today I’d like to share a song with you from your camp cd. It’s called “No Idols” and it teaches us in a memorable way Commandment #2.
“You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the forth generation of those who hate me, but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments.” Exodus 20:4-6
I hope you enjoy this song and the other 12 tracks that allow us to learn as we sing (and have a lot of fun in the process)!!!
Verse 1
There’s a lot of cool stuff on the earth
None of it comes near God’s worth
Cause He created everything we see
Like you and me
And though it’s ok to love my things
They turn to idols when we put them before the King
We’re not, made to praise them both
Pre-Chorus
Jesus help us to love you the most
even more than the things we own
Chorus
No, No, No, No, No
We will not bow to idols
No, No, No, No, No
We will not put our things before You
You must be the greatest in our lives
Nothing else could ever satisfy
No we will not bow to idols
Verse 2
Three guys from a long time ago
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego
Risked it all when they refused to bow
To a golden idol
But you see God was on their side
He made sure they got out of the fire alive
And they, praised the one who saved them
Pre-Chorus
God helped them to love Him most
Even though they could have been toast
Ryan Kelley (c) 2011 Summer Celebration Band
Video Footage from the Making of “Love God With All That You Are”
We can’t wait to share these songs with you all!!!
Enjoy this brief video footage from the production.
19 days and counting…
20 Days!!!
Today we ordered 1,320 donuts. Sorry kids, these aren’t for you. Ever wonder why your camp counselors are so fun and energetic? We sugar them up each morning at our 7am info meeting.
CD Album Cover
So here it is…your album cover for The Ten Commandments CD!
Thank you Chris Porter and Brielle Nelson!
26 days and counting!
Singing at Summer Celebration!
Singing at Summer Celebration goes far beyond just opening your mouth and saying words to melody…we get the whole body involved. Each year we develop hand motions and simple dance moves that the campers can easily learn to complement the content of what they are singing. Oh, and the kids love it! Take a peak at some of our times singing last year.
This year we will sing original songs from the Summer Celebration Band’s new album, “Love God With All That You Are”. This 13 track cd teaches the kids The Ten Commandments and related Scripture through song. Did I mention that each camper will receive this cd as a gift at the camp? Well, they will! We want the singing to continue at home where the truth of these songs can be further understood and applied to each kid’s life.
26 days until the fun begins!
Camp Shirts - Volunteers & Kids
Thanks for voting online for this year’s camp shirt!!!
The results are in and the following design won:
Volunteer Shirt (Ice Grey)
Galatian Kids
Ephesian Kids
Philippian Kids
Colossian Kids
Everyone at Summer Celebration Central loves this design too! Thank YOU!
Give-A-Ways (UPDATED)
Friends,
At Summer Celebration we are always sending you home with something at the end of the day. Here are some previews for the poster you will receive this year.
Poster Front
Poster Back
See you in 31 short days…
More Kid’s Recording Pics
A few more pictures from our kid’s choir recording for the cd.
One month from today we will sing and dance to these songs together!!!
Kid’s Choir Recording
A few pics from the recording with the kids today!
I can’t wait to share these songs with you all at the camp….and give you your personal copy of the Ten Commandment Album that we wrote just for this memorable week together!
Body Ball
Can’t wait to be with you all in 40 short days!!!
Four new mammoth beach balls were delivered to our offices today in preparation for Body Ball games.
Here’s a shot from SC’09 with some Ephesian and Galatian team girls playing this much beloved game!
Give-A-Ways
Friends,
At Summer Celebration we are always sending you home with something at the end of each day. Here are some previews for the poster and wristbands you will receive this year.
Poster Front
Poster Back
Wristbands
Taking Summer Celebration Home
Campers, we realize the whole Summer Celebration experience can be a bit overwhelming with the games, drama, video, song and just plain fun.
We also realize that in the midst of such fun the main idea should never get lost. That’s why at the end of each day’s events we will leave you with a take-a-way card with the slogan of the day and scripture memory verse. Our hope here at Summer Celebration Central is that you will be able to review with your parents what you learned each day through the use of this take-a-way card. In addition, we officially challenge you to commit the slogan of the day to memory AND memorize the Scripture associated with it.
Take a look at this year’s cards:
Also, be on the look out for your own Official SC Ten Commandment Poster!!
54 days and counting…
Camp T-Shirts
Friends,
Our graphic wizard, Chris Porter, has put together this year’s camp t-shirt ideas…and…WOW! I love them!
So, which one do you like best?
Email me your thoughts or ideas at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Make your vote count!
Option A:
Option B:
Option C:
55 days and counting…
Thank You Volunteers!
So….I’m still blown away that we had over 250 people attend our volunteer informational meeting!
Thank you for coming out to find out how you can serve at SC’11.
We are very blessed to have so many of you interested in partnering with us in this special event! Counting down the days…only 57 left.
Body Ball
One of the kid’s favorite games at SC’10 was called “Body Ball”; a soccer like game that involved a beach ball 5 feet tall.
The kids had a blast and you will too this year!!!
62 days and counting…
Register Today
We are only two months away from the start of SC’11!
Tell a friend about it! We are limited to the first 550 campers. Registration spots are filling up fast!
The Lawgiver, The lawbreakers, The Law-Keeper for us!
“For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.” Romans 8:3-4
Christian, take heart! Jesus has accomplished the law for you, and it is in this confidence and the freedom that Jesus brings that you can, by the power of his Spirit, please God and live out in your own life what the will of God demands of you. - Ed Clowney
Looking forward to exploring with you how Jesus transforms The Ten Commandments at Summer Celebration 2011!
Volunteer Meeting
Parents, Singles and Teens of Covenant Life Church,
I’d like to make you aware of an exciting serving opportunity at Summer Celebration!
Each year we rely on faithful teens, singles and parents from Covenant Life Church to give a week of their summer to help kids learn from Scripture why “Character Counts.” Last year over 500 kids participated of which nearly 150 were not children of members of our church.
We fully expect to have our best camp to date this year teaching The Ten Commandments and have even higher hopes of reaching children in our community with the gospel. Please take a look at your calendar and consider if you can be involved in this strategic camp.
If this is something that peaks your interest, please make plans to attend our
Sunday, April 17th Volunteer Meeting
. The meeting will run from
1:30-2:15PM in the Events Center
. We will gather together in that space as soon as the children who attend Discovery Land are able to clear out. (Please wait to enter the Events Center until the Discovery Land Staff welcomes you in.)
At this meeting we’ll provide you with a pizza and soda lunch, you’ll receive more details about this year’s camp, and you’ll be given the chance to sign up to serve if you so desire. Thank you!
Deep Thoughts with Douglas!
Our co-host, Douglas Doogleberry will once again join us this year via video! He’s provided some memorable moments these past 4 years and he’s sure to deliver his clever/zany thoughts once again in these video segments we like to call, “Deep Thoughts with Douglas”. For a sneak peak of Douglas’ deep thoughts read Exodus chapter 20. Better yet, read the entire book of Exodus!
PIES!!!
At Summer Celebration we use just about every medium to help teach children; including through the use of pies. Yes, I did say “pies”!
Typically at the end of each day, we review what was taught through a concluding object lesson centered around a pie landing in someone’s face, much to the joy of all the children. It just so happened that I received many pies in the face this past year but if that means the lesson sticks in a kid’s head and begins to impact their actions it’s entirely worth it!
78 days and counting…sign up today!
Camp Curriculum: The Ten Commandments
Many people think of the Ten Commandments as just a list of “do’s and don’ts” –DO this but DON’T do that! But the Ten Commandments are much more than a list of do’s and don’ts. The Ten Commandments show us what God is like…and what we are like.
WHAT GOD IS LIKE:
Exodus 20:3 is called the Prologue of the Ten Commandments.
“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” Exodus 20:2
It comes before the commands of God and is like an introduction. It tell us who is giving the commands – God – and why God can give commands. By studying the prologue carefully, we can understand a lot about God.
In the Prologue God says three things about himself:
1. I am the LORD
2. I am your God
3. I brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery
This all reveals that God is sovereign, self-sufficient, eternal and unchanging.
Because God made the world and everything in it, he owns all things and has the right to do whatever he pleases with it. He is the King of all creation!
As the King, He is the one who makes the law of the land.
King God determined to give his people the law to tell them what was right and wrong.
The first four commandments show us
what our heart should be toward God
:
#1 “You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3
This shows us that God is greater than all other gods and he is worthy of our praise.
#2 “You shall not make for yourself a carved image.” Exodus 20:4
This shows us that God’s greatness cannot be shown by anything that man could make.
#3 “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain”. Exodus 20:7
This shows us that God’s name and reputation is precious because God is most valuable and worthy.
#4 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” Exodus 20:8
This shows us that we can rest because God is able to provide for His children.
The final six commands show us
what our heart should be toward others
:
#5 “Honor your father and your mother.” Exodus 20:12
This shows us that God wants us to honor those who are in authority – those who have position over us – because God, the greatest authority, is worthy of honor.
#6 “You shall not murder.” Exodus 20:13
This tells us to respect the life of others because God is the Creator of life.
#7 “You shall not commit adultery” Exodus 20:14
This tells us to be faithful because God is faithful.
#8 “You shall not steal” Exodus 20:15
This tells us that God gives us all things and knows just what to give us. We do not need to take from others because God is wise and knows how much each person should have.
#9 “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” Exodus 20:16
This tells us not to lie because God is not a liar.
#10 “You shall not covet.” Exodus 20:17
This teaches us that God is the greatest treasure. When we have God we have all that we need.
WHAT WE ARE LIKE:
The Ten Commandments also tell us what we are like. Have you kept all Ten Commandments perfectly? No? Neither has anyone who has ever lived. Romans 3:23 says, “all have sinned…” and James 2:10 says, “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.”
Simply put, we are guilty sinners deserving of punishment. This this the worse possible news we could ever hear.
So far we’ve talked about the Lawgiver (God), the Lawbreakers (Us) but there is One who we’ve yet to mention…
JESUS who is the Law-Keeper for us.
Won’t you join us this year at Summer Celebration to learn more about God’s law and celebrate the one who came to save us from the times we broke the law so that we might live for God in obedience?
Mrs B and I will be there along with the Tree House Gang and many others….and we just can’t wait to see you there too!
79 days and counting…
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
Registration for Summer Celebration is now open! Click here to register online.
We’re only 80 days away from the camp, so sign up soon before space is gone! (Space is limited to the first 500 registrants)
The Very First Year…
It was the Spring of 2005. Chris Silard and I had a desire to serve the kids of the community by hosting our first kid’s summer camp. It started with this desire, coupled with prayer, coupled with research, coupled with lots and lots and lots of planning. “Summer Celebration” was born! That year, I believe, we had about 150 volunteers and 230 kids. It was a memorable first year with Mr. and Mrs. C co-hosting the camp with me.
This year marks our 7th Summer Celebration. And we’ve never been better prepared or more excited about the content of the camp than we are this year with the teaching revolving around the Ten Commandments.
To date, we’ve hosted nearly 2,500 kids. We’ve printed over 3,700 t-shirts (kids+volunteers). And we’ve given out 60 medals to honor campers for their demonstration of godly character. The gospel has been clearly shared countless times. And kids are inspired from God’s Word to trust in Jesus as they pursue godliness.
I thank God for these past 6 years and eagerly anticipate Summer Celebration 2011! See you there!!!
87 days and counting…
Check out this video from Summer Celebration 2007. Greg Somerville swung off of the folded up bleachers in the auditorium, illustrating courage for the campers.
Courage from Summer Celebration on Vimeo.
Picture of the Day
Kristen from the Tree House Gang Singing at SC’10
89 days and counting…
Help Us Promote SC’11
While kids have registered for Summer Celebration from as far away as North Carolina, we typically serve families from the greater Gaithersburg/Rockville/Frederick region. This is by design! We want Summer Celebration to serve the community while pointing families back to the local church.
To this end, our advertising is designed to reach our local communities. We advertise through an announcement in the Gaithersburg Gazette, car magnets, business cards, and word of mouth; none of these more important than the last…(go tell a friend about it!)
I thought I’d give you a sneak peak at this year’s car magnet (coming to a bumper near you very soon) and our business card style announcement cards.
Car Magnet:
Business Card:
We look forward to handing these out on an upcoming Sunday at Covenant Life Church.
Please consider if there is someone you know who would benefit from this camp. We’d love to have them join us at the celebration!
For a car magnet or business card, email me at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and I will be happy to get these out to you.
90 days and counting!
Our Amazing Volunteers (A Letter From Patrick “The Powerful Philippian Fanatic”)
Each year, over 200 teens from the 10:31 Youth Ministry of Covenant Life Church volunteer their time, gifts and energy to make Summer Celebration an amazing experience for our kids! We are so blessed to have so many desirous volunteers that we have to limit the number of teens we accept as volunteers (a really good problem to have).
To give you a sense of the kind of quality volunteers we have I have posted an email I received from just one of them a couple days ago.
Hey Mr. B!
Just wanted to let you know that I am very excited that the new website is open and I can’t wait for SC 2011!!! I would also like to ask in advance that the volunteer shirts be tie-dye this year. ;)
Also, I don’t know if this is too much to ask, but I was wondering if I could possibly serve in the Philippians 10-year olds again. I know this might be WAY to early to ask that since we haven’t even had the volunteer meeting, but I just thought I’d ask in advance. I got to be friends with some of the 9-year olds from last year’s camp, and I really enjoyed being with the 10-year olds last year. It was an enriching experience, and I could really connect with them. Also I would like to be on the Philippians :)
If that’s too much to ask (or too early to ask for that), sorry. Just wondering :)
I will be following the blog for all 100 days!!! Can’t wait!
In grace,
~Patrick the Powerful Philippian Fanatic
Thanks Patrick for your enthusiasm to serve and teach these kids! I thank God for you and the 200 others who will join you in this important work!
Patrick and Douglas
Remembering SC’10 (A Few Pictures)
Some wonderful memories flooded my mind as I went through these pictures from last year’s camp.
How Jesus Transforms the Ten Commandments
It’s a question many ask but few take time to answer sufficiently: “What place do the Ten Commandments now have in the Christian life?”
It’s an important question. And it’s one that we will address with 500+ kids this year at Summer Celebration.
Beyond rote memory of all ten commands, beyond an understanding of the context these commands were given, even beyond a summary of these commands (Matthew 22:36-40); we will take time to unpack how Jesus transforms these commands and why this matters to us as children and adults.
The Summer Celebration Teaching Team has enlisted the help of a world class Bible scholar to guide us through the teaching of each of these commands with children. This help comes in the form of Edmund P. Clowney’s book, “How Jesus Transforms the Ten Commandments”. With his help navigating the whole of God’s Word, we will deliver these insights through entertaining/engaging/fun means (as we’ve become known for) to help this truth stick in the hearts and minds of kids.
The structure of what we will teach this year can be summed up in the following threefold statement:
The Lawgiver, the lawbreakers, and the Law-keeper for US!
One commentator on Clowney’s book stated the following related to these three categories:
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17 For many Christians, conditioned to emphasize our freedom from the law, Jesus’ words seem strange, even incompatible with the gospel of grace. If Jesus did not abolish the law, then how should we look at the Ten Commandments today? Clowney explains how Jesus intensifies the law and expands its scope to every situation in life. But as the author did so often during his ministry, he goes further, finding Christ in the law and showing how he fulfills it for his people. Thus believers will learn more not only of God’s character revealed in the law, but also of the gospel with its focus on Christ.
We look forward to unpacking these ten commands with you through song, teaching, games, videos and drama. It’s shaping up to be yet another unforgettable week!
See you there!
Mr. B
Countdown the Days with Us!
Our 7th Annual Kid’s Camp is only 100 days away! Can you believe it?!!!
We’re making preparations for you right now. The SC Band is at work tonight in the Sovereign Grace Studio writing the final songs for the Ten Commandment Album that you will receive as a gift at the camp. We’re recording this album so that you can have the perfect songs to compliment the wonderful teaching you’ll receive from Mr. Maka, Mr. Somerville, Mr. Lee, Mr. Cooley and Mr. Greer. You’re going to love learning more about the ten commandments through these catchy tunes. My kids are already loving them! Just ask Caly about “No Idols”! She’ll likely bust out the chorus for you right there, “NO, NO, NO, NO, NO….we will not bow to idols, we will not put our things before You…”
Please check in regularly for updates as the camp draws near.
100 days and counting…
Summer Celebration 2011
We’re busy preparing for the start of our 100 day countdown to Summer Celebration 2011. Saturday, March 12th, we’ll be launching a new website look and announcing the theme for this year’s camp. In the meantime, here’s the basic info you should know:
Summer Celebration 2011
June 20 - June 24 (Monday through Friday)
Camp runs each day from 9am until noon.
Registration opens April 1st, $50 per camper
Children ages 6-10 are welcome to attend.
Registration
Our of our 500 camper slots, only 50 remain.
You can register online anytime today (Saturday) or tomorrow (Sunday).
On Monday there will be walk-in registration for any slots still available.
We hope to see you there!
SC Songs - “A Generous Heart”
CHORUS
God loves a generous heart, a generous heart
Yes, He does
God loves a generous heart, a generous heart
Cause that’s a heart like His own heart
That’s a heart like His own
VERSE 1
There are those who give away
It seems the more they give, the more they gain
There are others who hold back
The more they try to keep, the more they lack
The more they lack
VERSE 2
God has shown us how to give
He offered up His Son so we might live
Jesus gave His precious blood
To wash us clean and bring us back to God
Back to God
BRIDGE
We can’t out give God
For He’s the Giver of life and every good thing
We can’t out give God
He just keeps pouring out more
He’s the wonderful King!
YOU and Hand Motions
You all have been busy learning the new songs and hand motions for the camp. Thank YOU!
Here’s some video of Emily and Eliza Berry dancing to our song “W-I-S-D-O-M”. Well done!
How are you doing learning these motions?
SC - Weather Report
The weather report is looking pretty good for the week of the camp. I trust we will be able to be outside for our competitions of body ball, capture the flag, squirt, and “the race”.
“God, please give us wonderful, sunny weather!” - that’s a prayer of mine. You can join me in asking God for great weather. I’d appreciate that.
Only 5 days (that’s 120 hours, or 7,200 minutes, or 432,000 seconds…431,999 seconds…431,998 seconds…) left until we start the celebration.
I can’t wait!
-Mr. B
Here’s what weather.com is projecting for the week of the camp:
SC Songs - “Nuggets of Gold”
CHORUS
Your Word’s got nuggets of gold
A treasure for my soul
Getting them out is my goal
I’m gonna dig in, dig in, dig in
Like I’m diggin’ for gold
VERSE 1
I’ll go exploring like a treasure hunter
Diggin’ down deep in a mine
And Your Spirit’s gonna help me discover
What I need to find
VERSE 2
I’m gonna learn about the lazy sluggard
And to keep far away from the fool
I will see that pleasing God is much better
Than tryin’ to be cool
BRIDGE
Your Word’s got nuggets, nuggets of gold
Your Word’s got nuggets, nuggets of gold
Your Word’s got nuggets, nuggets of gold
Your Word’s got nuggets, nuggets of gold
SC Songs - “I Don’t Have To Hide”
VERSE 1
When I have done something I know I shouldn’t do
And I’m tempted to hide it
When I have spoken words I know I shouldn’t speak
And I want to deny it
If I confess my sins, I’ll find mercy
CHORUS
Blessed is the one who fears the Lord
And admits his sin
Blessed is the one who trusts the Lord
Who alone forgives :||
Jesus died so I don’t have to hide anymore
VERSE 2
When I have taken something I know I shouldn’t take
And I try to conceal it
When I have disobeyed the rules my parents made
I shouldn’t keep it a secret
If I confess my sins, I’ll find mercy
BRIDGE
When we know we’re forgiven
We don’t have to be afraid
We’ll want to run from sin
And follow Jesus every day
SC Songs - “Mr. Lazy Bones”
A favorite song of mine is, “Mr. Lazy Bones”. It’s a bit silly but communicates an important message about working hard unto the LORD, for His glory.
Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Singing this song helps to remind me that I’m suppose to turn my “lazy bones” into “busy bones”, ready to do good work diligently unto the LORD.
Enjoy learning it!
VERSE 1
Have you heard about Mr. Lazy Bones?
You can find him sleeping on his couch at home
When there’s work outside for him to do
He is working hard to find another excuse
VERSE 2
Mr. Lazy Bones tells you he’s afraid
Never ever finishes the plans he’s made
When you want his help around the house
You can try to find him but he’s never around
CHORUS
Lazy Bones can help us see
What we never want to be
He doesn’t have a hope or a clue
When we work to please the Lord
God will make our plans secure
And He’ll be glorified in all we do
VERSE 3
See the busy ants working all the time
No one has to tell them how to stay alive
Getting ready for winter days ahead
Gathering their food until the time comes to rest
SC Updates
Wow! Only 8 days until the celebration begins! We are very busy at Summer Celebration Central getting ready for you!
I thought you’d want to see some picture updates:
1. The new Summer Celebration Medals came in to award campers who win our Wisdom, Humility, Honesty, Generosity and Diligence Awards. Mrs. B and me are looking forward to honoring you for your specific demonstration of these godly character traits!
2. The Tree House Gang has a new tree house! It’s still being constructed but I thought you’d like to see what it looks like right now. Hope to have a tire swing installed this week.
3. The camper t-shirts are in! they look great thanks to Mr. Chris Porter! Go Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians Teams!
That’s it for now. Keep working on the songs and your hand motions.
See ya in 8 short days!!
-Mr. B
SC Songs - “All Ears”
Listen Up! Enjoy “All Ears”.
CHORUS
I wanna be all ears when Mom is speaking
All ears when Dad is teaching
There’s a lot I don’t know
And they’ve been around a whole lot of years
And have covered some ground
Their words will make me wise, so I’m all ears
VERSE 1
When my eyes are tempted to wander away
I’ll be all ears
When my mouth is jumping at something to say F
I’ll be all ears
Even when it’s hard for me to hear
VERSE 2
When my parents tell me that I should obey
I’ll be all ears
When they teach me Jesus’ loving ways
I’ll be all ears
’Cause I know it’s what I need to hear.
BRIDGE
I’ve got two hands, two feet
Two elbows, two knees, but I’m all ears
Two eyes, one stare, and a whole lot of hair
But I’m all ears
Tomorrow, today, at school and at play
I’ll be all ears
I’ll be slow to speak, and quick to hear
’Cause I wanna be all ears!
12 days and counting…
A Note From Last Year
Last year we received many thank you notes from kids and parents. I wanted to share one with you from Eliza Berry.
Eliza, so glad you enjoyed the camp last year. Looking forward to you and the other 499 kids enjoying all we are planning for you this year!
12 days and counting…pray for great weather.
Volunteer Roster
Hi guys!
If you signed up to volunteer but haven’t gotten an email, let me know. Somehow only half of my emails went through and I want to get in touch with you to get you the serving roster and all the necessary info. Sorry for the confusion! Email me at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). ALSO, don’t forget to turn in your Attachment C Forms! :-)
-Brielle
SC Song - “To Tell the Truth”
So, I’ve heard you all are enjoying the new songs and hand motions. That’s great!
In past years, groups of volunteers and campers got together to learn the songs/hand motions at home. If you’re doing that, give me an email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). I’d love to come on over and work on them with you. Hey, we might even get some video footage for the blog.
Here’s the next song titled, “To Tell the Truth”.
CHORUS
To tell the truth is what I want to do
Because You love the lips that speak the truth
To tell a lie leads me away from You
So help me, God, to tell the truth
VERSE 1
Your Words will last forever
They never change or fade
You never break a promise
We can trust all You say
But when my words aren’t truthful
I’m doing something wrong
They’ll only last a moment
Suddenly they’ll be gone
VERSE 2
A little lie seems harmless
Like ordinary words
But lies we tell to others
Are like a sword that hurts
When someone tries to tell me
That covering up’s okay
Don’t let me be dishonest
Help me to humbly say
14 days and counting…
An Invite from the Adventure Class @ Discovery Land
They really want you to join them at Summer Celebration….
Register HERE
15 days and counting…
Your Own Treasure Map
Every kid wants a treasure map to go exploring with. I most certainly did! This year we will send home with each camper their own personal treasure map to further explore the content from God’s Word. The map itself will serve as a tool to remind each camper of what was taught and help them go further into the Bible as they understand the true value of knowing and keeping God’s commands.
Here is a snapshot of the map:
In addition to the map, we will send home review cards each day to help with memorization of the Scripture that was taught.
Here is a sample card for “honesty”:
We trust that tools like these will help you to “take the camp home” and provoke wonderful conversation at home with mom and dad.
The treasure hunt begins in 16 days…see ya there!
Mr. B
SC Songs - “W-I-S-D-O-M”
I’m loving all these new songs specifically teaching us the character traits we will take time to learn more about at SC’10! Thank you Sovereign Grace Music for creating such an outstanding album.
Over the next week I will post a song-a-day where you will be able to both listen to and learn the hand motions for these songs. Do your best to learn them at home with friends, with Dad and Mom, with your dog….whatever it takes. Special thanks to Josie Bowers and Kevin Mori for developing these for us to us! Well done!
Our very first song to learn is titled, “W-I-S-D-O-M”. Give it a listen and learn those fun motions.
Only 16 short summer days until SC! Thanks for counting them down with me. - Mr. B
20 days!!
Today we ordered 1,320 donuts. Sorry kids, these aren’t for you. Ever wonder why your camp counselors are so fun and energetic? We sugar them up each morning at our 7am info meeting.
THIS YEAR’S VOLUNTEER SHIRT
We’ve made the decision!
This year’s t-shirt for volunteers is going to be brown with gold print.
One Month Away!!
Can’t wait to be with you all in 31 short days.
Today we ordered two new mammoth beach balls in preparation.
Here’s a shot from last year’s camp with some Ephesian and Galatian team girls playing Body Ball.
Telling Others About Summer Celebration!
I decided to plaster my car in the extra Summer Celebration Car Magnets today! I know I’m gonna get some odd looks while waiting at lights but that is a small cost compared to getting the news out so children to hear the gospel, grow in their faith and have an unforgettable week!
What are you doing to tell others about Summer Celebration 2010? Let me know by emailing me at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Thanks! Pray for Mrs. B as I take her out on a date tonight in the newly decorated car…
41 days and counting…
Screen Graphics
Chris Porter has done it again! Here are the wonderful screen designs that he created for the camp. Perfect for our treasure hunting theme. Check ‘em out!
43 days and counting…
The Wristbands
One of our many give-a-ways at Summer Celebration is a daily wristband to wear during the games as a constant reminder of the lesson from the morning. Here’s a preview of what we have for you this year…
44 days and counting….
Taking the Teaching Home
Campers, we realize the whole Summer Celebration experience can be a bit overwhelming with the games, drama, song and just plain fun.
We also realize that in the midst of such fun the main idea should never get lost. That’s why at the end of each day’s events we will leave you with a take-a-way card with the slogan of the day and scripture memory verse(s). Our hope here at Summer Celebration Central is that you will be able to review with your parents what you learned each day through the use of this take-a-way card. In addition, we officially challenge you to commit the slogan of the day to memory AND memorize the scripture associated with that character trait.
In the coming days I will post these cards to give you a head start of things.
Also look out for your own official SC Treasure Map!!!
51 days and counting…
Camp T-Shirts
Friends,
Our graphic wizard, Chris Porter, has put together this year’s camp shirts…and…WOW! I love them!
The only question is what color we should make the volunteer shirt this year.
Email me your thoughts or ideas at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Make your vote count!
Kid’s Tees:
Volunteer Tees:
55 days and counting…
In the Studio with the Kid’s Choir
One last day of recording the songs for the camp! We had the Kid’s Choir join us! 14 wonderful kids and a ton of sugar…I’m ready for a nap.
I promise, you’ll love our times of singing at SC’10. See ya in 58 days.
PIES!!!
At Summer Celebration we use just about every medium to help teach children; including through the use of pies. Yes, I did say “pies”!
Typically at the end of each day, we review what was taught through a concluding object lesson centered around a pie landing in someone’s face, much to the joy of all the children. It just so happened that I received many pies in the face this past year but if that means the lesson sticks in a kid’s head and begins to impact their actions it’s entirely worth it!
59 days and counting…
Two Months from Today
We are only two months away from the start of SC’10!
Tell a friend about it! We are limited to the first 550 campers. Registration spots are filling up fast!
By Request: Douglas Doogleberry Vids
This week I received the following email from Patrick and Braden Maresco.
Hey Mr. B! I can’t wait for Summer Celebration 2010!!!
I was watching the Laytonsville Golf Course Douglas Doogleberry video with Braden from 2 years ago (since he didn’t go 2 years ago) and I was thinking, “I wish that they had the Douglas videos from 2009 for everyone to enjoy!”
So I was wondering if you have the recordings of the Fruit of the Spirit Douglas Doogleberry videos available, maybe you could think about posting them on the blog? That would be awesome!
Just a thought :) I know we would enjoy them (Braden and I)!
Well, Patrick and Braden we are so glad you are looking forward to SC’10!!! To continue to build your anticipation for this year I’ve posted Douglas’ search for the fruit of the Spirit from SC’09. Enjoy!
65 days and counting…
Volunteer Meeting Amazement!
So…I’m still blown away that over 250 of you showed up to find out more about volunteering at SC2010!
Thank YOU!
We are looking forward to partnering with you in the coming weeks to serve the campers and their families.
(A snapshot of some volunteers taking a look at the treasure map)
Only 69 days until the celebration begins!
The Treasure Map
Dear Campers (or should I call you treasure seekers?),
The treasure map arrived on my desk today (from the amazing Chris Porter) to help guide us to Wisdom, Humility, Honesty, Generosity and Diligence. I just had to take a couple of pictures to share with you.
I Can’t wait to start our adventure seeking the hidden treasure of God (Proverbs 2:1-5). 72 Days and counting…
Vote Now - Walking With the Wise Album Cover
Now is your chance to vote for the album cover for our camp CD.
The songs are coming together nicely….and the kid’s choir will be recorded tomorrow. They’d appreciate your prayers.
So…which album cover do you like best? Vote on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sovereign-Grace-Music/24067464304?ref=mf)
Douglas’ Great Adventure
Our co-host Douglas Doogleberry will once again be on a search, this time for a treasure more valuable than gold! We look forward to showing you the places Douglas will take us by video in search of this treasure. For a sneak peak into the treasure hunting read Proverbs chapter 2.
73 days and counting…
Another Day in the Studio Recording
Almost done recording! Today Steve Cook, Bob Kauflin and I will take time to finalize the master vocal tracks and add the children’s choir parts on the 24th.
You’re gonna love to sing and dance to these songs! The name of the CD is “Walking with the Wise” in keeping with the theme of the book of Proverbs.
Thus far my favorite track is “Nuggets of Gold”... describing how we are like treasure hunters digging into God’s word to find his valuable commands.
Enjoy a few more pics of our sessions ... note our young vocalist Emma Harris. She rocked it yesterday!
79 days and counting…
In-Studio Recording Songs for SC’10
The songs for camp are coming together! We’ve had a blast the last couple of days recording the vocals for the give-a-way cd at Summer Celebration! I can’t wait to give each of you a copy. For now, enjoy a few pictures…
80 days and counting…
Registration Open
We are excited to announce that registration for Summer Celebration 2010 is now open. For more information, and a link to sign up online, see the “Registration” tab on the left.
We are only 81 days away from the camp, so sign up soon before space is gone!
Picture of the Day
Registration opens April 1st, that’s Thursday! Tell your parents.
Singing at Camp
Singing at Summer Celebration goes far beyond just opening your mouth and saying words to melody…we get the whole body involved. Each year we develop hand motions and simple dance moves that the campers can easily learn to complement the content of what they are singing. Oh, and the kids love it! Take a peak at some of our times singing from last year.
In cooperation with Sovereign Grace Music we will be singing songs from their forthcoming kid’s album, “Walking with the Wise”. These original songs will complement the teaching on Wisdom, Humility, Honesty, Generosity, and Diligence. Each day we will introduce one of these new songs to further emphasize the teaching on the character trait we are studying that day,
Did I mention that each camper will receive a free “Walking with the Wise” cd? Well, they will! We want the singing to continue at home where the truth of these songs can be further understood and applied to their lives.
87 days until the fun begins!
Volunteer at SC’2010
Dear Members of Covenant Life Church,
Each year, Summer Celebration Kids Camp is made possible by volunteers like you. This year is no exception and we need your help!
We are hosting an informational meeting on Sunday, April 11th at 1:30 in the Events Center at Covenant Life Church. If you’d like to help or find out more, please come and enjoy a pizza and soda lunch while we discuss the requirements and expectations for the various volunteer roles. Your attendance at this meeting is the first step in signing up to volunteer. For this reason, we’d ask that you make this a priority if you anticipate volunteering.
If you have any questions, email Brielle Nelson - .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Hope to see you April 11th!
Mike Bradshaw
Car Magnet
Coming soon to a bumper near you….
Help get the news out about the camp through sporting this attractive car magnet. They will be available for pick-up starting April 4th in the Adventure Classroom of Covenant Life Church.
95 days and counting…
Picture of the Day
Remembering last year’s drink team…floaties and all.
96 days and counting…
Douglas Doogleberry’s Return
I’m pleased to announce that our beloved Douglas Doogleberry will once again co-host the camp. We are thrilled that he will be bringing his silly songs, dance moves, road trips, and (of course) the pies.
I understand that this year he is on a treasure hunt seeking out wealth greater than silver, gold or precious jewels. Will he find this treasure? You can help him at SC’10!
In the meantime, enjoy some pics of Douglas from previous years.
97 days and counting…
100 Day Countdown
Welcome to the wonderful world of Summer Celebration. We are busy making preparations for this year’s camp. And it appears that we will once again outdo ourselves in putting together the most entertaining/educational/enjoyable 5 days possible.
I invite you to count down the days (hours, minutes, seconds) ‘til the start of SC’10. Tune in daily for pics, videos, stories, contests, and updates.
If Summer Celebration is new to you, we have created this camp to call children to godly character while pointing them to their need for Jesus Christ. The specifics of this year’s program can be found in the About Tab to your left.
For all you kids out there, registration will officially open April 1st. At that time you will be able to click on the Registration Tab to reserve your spot (with your parents help of course).
In the meantime, enjoy a few pics and videos from last year’s activities.
Summer Celebration 2010… Mark your calendars!
Mark your calendars for June 21-24 for Summer Celebration 2010! Registration opens April 1.
2 Days and Counting…
Have you been doing this?
We have! You can practice with the videos here.
FYI - we had an great volunteer meeting this morning. I can hardly wait!
Only 2 days! -Mr. B
4 Days and Counting…
Boys and girls of all ages, presenting the game schedule! The number represents the age group playing the game.
Looking forward to all the competitions and fun!!!
Can you believe it? Only 4 more days!!!!!
-Mr. B
5 Days and Counting…
The weather report is looking pretty good for the week of the camp. I trust we will be able to be outside for our competitions of body ball, capture the flag, squirt, and “the race”.
“God, please give us wonderful, sunny weather!” - that’s a prayer of mine. You can join me in asking God for great weather. I’d appreciate that.
Only 5 days (that’s 120 hours, or 7,200 minutes, or 432,000 seconds…431,999 seconds…431,998 seconds…) left until we start the celebration.
I can’t wait. Mrs. B has been doing a lot baking with fruit this week. I wonder what she’s up to?!
-Mr. B
Here’s what weather.com is projecting for the week of the camp:
6 Days and Counting…
Hey Everyone, it’s Douglas here. Mrs. B and I have been planning some “special” pies for Mr. B next week. Shhhhhh! Don’t tell him about it. It’s a secret.
Review: Summer Celebration 2011
It was another amazing year! Thanks to the amazing volunteers and nearly 500 campers! Glory be to God!!! May there be much good fruit in these kid’s lives.
Photographers:
Kirsten DeWeber - http://www.kirstinrosephoto.blogspot.com
Ellie Berry - http://www.elliebphotos.com
Nicki Jackson - http://www.nicolemphotography.blogspot.com
and Rebecca Maka
Special thanks for the slideshow to Caleb Barker with help from Chris Porter, Josh Davis, Brielle Nelson, and Mike Bradshaw
Registration Update
Of our 500 camper slots, only 40 remain.
You can register online anytime today, Saturday or Sunday.
On Monday at 8:00AM there will be walk-in registration for any slots that are still available.
We hope to see you there!
Handmotions for “Love God With All You Are”
Verse 1:
God gave commands
To show us how to live for Him
To teach us to do what is right
He gave them all
According to his perfect plan
And each one is important to obey
Pre-Chorus:
There is one, God holds above the rest
A command, God says is the greatest
Chorus:
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Love the Lord
With all your heart
Your soul, your mind, your strength
Love God with all you are!
Verse 2
Who’s kept the Law?
Each of us has broken it
And we deserve the punishment of God
But God sent His Son
To show us true obedience
Jesus kept the law for you and me
Hand Motions for “Obey Dad and Mom”
Chorus
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-o-o-o-o-o-o
O-bey Dad and Mom! (REPEAT)
Verse1
God gave dad and mom to me
To guide me in authority
To help me grow in godliness
It’s the first commandment with a promise!
Verse2
When I think I know better than them
I wanta go my way straight into sin
I better stop and think Commandment 5
Following it will keep me alive!
Verse3
When I choose to honor what they say
God will bless me each and every day
Their words will keep me far from sin
Obeying my parents is always a win!
Outro
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom
Obey Dad and Mom, Obey Dad and Mom – Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
O-B-E-Y, Obey!
Summer Celebration Weather Report
The weather report is looking pretty good for the week of the camp. I trust we will be able to be outside for our competitions of body ball, capture the flag, squirt, and “the race”.
“God, please give us wonderful, sunny weather!” - that’s a prayer of mine. You can join me in asking God for great weather. I’d appreciate that.
Only 5 days (that’s 120 hours, or 7,200 minutes, or 432,000 seconds…431,999 seconds…431,998 seconds…) left until we start the celebration.
I can’t wait!
-Mr. B
Here’s what weather.com is projecting for the week of the camp: