Akron Ohio Stake News

The Akron Stake Young Women Camp was held July 16-20. Nearly 150 young women and leaders attended this year. We could not have asked for better weather. Many of us were concerned with how hot it would be in mid-July but with temperatures in the 70s we were tremendously blessed and pleased. The rain stayed away until we were almost ready to leave for the week on Friday afternoon. We had wisely packed up first thing in the morning. Our Stake Camp Director Sister Jordan Bigler and her assistant Sister Holly Greer spent countless hours preparing all the special details that make camp with a successful experience for all of the young women and leaders. They are simply amazing and inspired!

The 2018 camp theme was Trolls – I’m not giving up today!  We also used the 2018 youth theme, Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me, Doctrine and Covenants 19:23 as our scripture. The camp song was Steadfast In You by Jenny Phillips.

The girls arrived on Tuesday morning eager to get started. Most of the morning consisted of setting up camp and meeting the girls and leaders in each campsite. We camped by levels so the young women are mixed in with other in the stake not just ward members. That evening we had a beautiful spiritual presentation about the different parts of Lehi’s dream. The spirit could be felt so strongly as we put away the world and focused on the things our Heavenly Father wants us to learn.

Wednesday started bright and early with Sister Shannon Stiggins leading all those who were interested through a vibrant Zumba class. What a great start to the day! We were able to leave the camp for several hours and spend the afternoon at a local waterpark.

It was a fun change from the canoeing that we did the last several years. Wednesday night was skit presentations and Bishops/Bishopric night. Each year level participated in an original skit for all to watch. Each group was given a bag of eight random items that had to be incorporated in to a skit. The Bishops/Bishopric even participated. Many laughs were had by all. Following the skits, each ward grouped together around a campfire and had a devotional lead by their Bishop/Bishopric. Many of the young women and leaders commented afterward about the strong witness of the spirit that was felt while at the individual devotionals. Once we finished up our devotionals, we were able to experience a late night movie, Trolls, in the amphitheater with popcorn and ring pops. Thursday started with more Zumba and an even bigger crowd than the day before. Sister Shannon Stiggin’s is a great instructor.

Each year we participate in some kind of service project while at camp. This year we partnered with the O.U.R. organization. This stands for Operation Underground Railroad. The organization, started by an LDS member, rescues individuals from abusive situations. Part of the rescue effort involves the person being given a welcome package. This package includes toiletries and a note of encouragement. The Young Women hand made cards for rescued individuals. They will be sent to O.U.R. after camp. While you could only sign the card with your first name or your initials, the girls were able to write things like, “You are a child of God,” “You are loved,” “You are of worth.” The young women were creative as they decorated the cards. The cards were a beautiful work of art. We know these will make a difference in the lives of those who receive them.

Thursday evening ended with a spiritual musical program and individual campsite testimony meetings. Testimonies were shared by all and there was seldom a dry eye.  Watching the Young Women and leaders interact together through games, activities, spiritual lessons, and meal times you see how magical young women camp really is. Strangers are grouped together for the week and lasting friendships are formed.

The Spirit of the Holy Ghost abounds and each of us is able to see and feel the Lord’s plan for us. In a world of increasing unrighteousness, we can gather together and have our true identity as Daughters of God reinforced. As we look back on these experiences, the memories will help us remain steadfast and strong in the gospel.

Love,

Becky Semus

Margie Morrison

Jessica Spittle