Submitted by Stake YM President Wade Most
In July the Akron Ohio Stake YM held the 1st Annual Stake YM Camp at Camp Tuscazoar in Bolivar, Ohio. We had 70 young men from the stake attend, led by Brother Bruce Herron the Stake Young Men Camp Director. The theme for camp, “Armor Up”, was based on Alma 43. In Alma 43 we learn about the brave Nephites who fought under the leadership of Captain Moroni. These righteous warriors had been prepared by Captain Moroni with armor, swords and shields to protect them in their battle against the wicked Lamanites. The Lamanites who were not prepared with such armor were sore afraid because of their nakedness when they witnessed these mighty warriors armored up!
Activities at camp focused on teaching this same principle to the young men, that when they put on their spiritual armor the adversary is afraid of them and their mighty power. One of the activities the young men were able to participate in allowed them the opportunity to build their own armor out of cardboard and other supplies. Later that evening the young men armored up and with their “pool noodle” sword engaged in an all camp epic battle.
Other activities at camp included an amazing race challenge, service project to benefit the camp, chair soccer, classes that focused on scripture study techniques and scriptures that teach us how to armor up, archery, corn hole and tug of war. Friday we took an 8.5 mile canoe trip down the Tuscarawas River enjoying the beautiful weather and had lunch along the way. Each evening we gathered for a spiritual devotional that focused on the theme. One of those nights Brother Alred brought his real suit of armor and discussed with the young men each piece and its spiritual application. Another evening Brother Jared Varner engaged the youth in a discussion about fictional superheroes and how their specific powers are similar to the spiritual powers they have access to through living the gospel.
It was a blessing to have this opportunity to gather together, strengthen one another, fellowship and build bonds of brotherhood. A huge thank you to all who participated and all who supported this activity! We look forward to camp next year!
Akron Ohio Stake News 