Grace W.
Age 15

As a welcome to Camp Gilgal, the whole camp went on a small hike the first night. I thought it was a really great opening for the week. Because it was my first time at camp, I especially enjoyed meeting new people during the hike. Everyone formed a line to walk out to the appointed place. The path was dusty and at some points we had to walk single file because the trail became so narrow. Most people grouped up and used flashlights to light the way.

After about fifteen minutes we all reached a dark meadow opening surrounded by manzanita trees and other foliage. The campers and most of the tribe leaders lay down on the grass beside each other. Each flashlight was turned off in order to get a better view of the sky. The stars were amazingly clear and easy to see, with no artificial light interfering. At first, many of the campers were loud but after a bit, everyone quieted down and listened to what the leaders were saying. Songs were sung and prayers were said. Streetlight read through the first three chapters of Mark. It was so nice and quiet and it was perfect listening time. We spent a few minutes in silence staring up at the stars and appreciating God’s creation. I especially enjoyed this trip because I was able to study nature in a whole new way with a group of fellow believers. It was an excellent way to begin camp since it gave an opportunity to make new friends while showing that camp had a special emphasis on the Bible.