This summer, thirty Schweitzer students—our largest group yet!—attended Christ in Youth’s ‘MOVE’ (high school camp) in Joplin. We experienced a week full of incredible worship and powerful messages, gained new understanding of faith through classes, engaged in fellowship in various tournaments, and so much more. From deep talks on pickleball courts to over-hyped arm wrestling, CIY certainly left a lasting impression, as it does every year.
Upon arrival, many of us felt like we were returning home, not to a place but to a presence. We stayed in college dorms and had the opportunity to grow closer with our roommates. We participated in late-night conversations about messages and bonded over early wake-up times.
Throughout the week, we participated in ‘Grade Wars,’ a competition where students earn points for their grade through daily games. Many of our students got to play these games, and we even had one winner! “Don’t second-guess yourself or give up on any of the challenges,” says Sophomore Liam McGhee, after winning a task-focused game where he dressed up as a crab and spoke in a pirate accent for five hours. Ultimately, the juniors won for the week by racking up the most points.
Twice a day, hundreds of students, adult leaders, and volunteers gathered to worship and learn from
incredible speakers such as Michael Defazio and Brad Tate. This year, we walked through the book of Hebrews, learning about the character of the Lord and how we, as a People, are to run the race of faith. Year after year, worship remains a crowd favorite among us students. As the music begins to play, we rush the stage with excitement and hearts ready to praise.
Senior Emma Rowden described it as “epic and impactful,” and Junior Carter Roberts said the worship was his favorite part of the week. Whether we were jumping around to songs of praise or raising our hands in surrender to songs of prayer, there was always an indescribable feeling of joy and peace in
the togetherness.
Every evening, we had the opportunity to respond in a tangible way. From writing down prayers on large whiteboards and praying over them to tying cloth on a rope to symbolize a recommitment to faith, there was something for everyone. This year alone, 90% of our students recommitted to their walk with Christ, eleven answered the call to vocational ministry, and two received ambassador scholarships to Ozark Christian College for displaying servant leadership and the desire to live a life dedicated to Christian service!
Adult leader Alec Knopf says, “The most impactful part of CIY for me as a leader is seeing the students interact and engage with the sessions. Whether it’s getting involved with worship or making first-time decisions or re-upping their commitment to God, that is why I do it.” CIY is a life-changing experience for all who attend and has significantly impacted our lives every time. We can’t wait to see how God works in the future!
