Where Strangers Became ‘Framily’
For more than ten years, Ann has been bringing students from Church of the Holy Spirit in Gloversville to CAMP-of-the-WOODS. But the story of how it started was born out of need.
“We were in terrible condition,” Ann recalls. “Sleeping on the floor, no hot water, cooking our own food… we just didn’t have the funding to go anywhere else.” But they knew it was time for a change. They tried another venue, but it wasn’t right, either. So based on word of mouth, they came here…and then haven’t stopped coming!
Each year, the anticipation builds, but so does the weight of responsibility. “The hype of the retreat is always wonderful,” Ann says, “but this year, knowing the kids would have their own rooms, private bathrooms… it just changed everything.” They were looking for meaningful spaces and an environment that fostered connection and spiritual growth. “We just wanted things to run more smoothly,” she explains, “so the kids could actually have the experiences they needed to get to know God.”
This became true when, one late Saturday night, a young girl, who was supposed to leave early, picked up the phone around midnight and called her mom. “She told her… she didn’t want to go home.”
At another time during the weekend, another sweet moment transpired. The students had gathered for adoration—a time of quiet worship and prayer. “They were drawn to it,” Ann says. “They wanted to be there. They wanted to pray.” This was a beautiful example of a young generation seeking the Lord as the body of Christ.
One young man, who typically sits alone and gets bullied at school, surprised his parents when he told them he wanted to go on the retreat, even though he has anxiety. But something happened that weekend. “He had SUCH an amazing time,” Ann says. He made friends and grew closer in his relationship with Christ. “There were no cliques,” Ann says. “Kids from six different schools—Northville, Broadalbin, Gloversville, Fonda—they just… meshed.”
However, the impact didn’t end when the buses left. Students are reaching out to each other, especially the ones who normally wouldn’t. Conversations are continuing, and relationships are deepening.
“They’re starting to understand the value of spending time with people who show them God’s love.”
Ann pauses, then smiles.
“It’s like a ‘framily.’ Friends and family.”
After a decade of leading, Ann has seen a lot. But this still awes her. “I’m always so proud watching them grow through the weekend,” she says. “Watching them find their faith.”
For many leaders, the work is planting seeds they may never see grow. “That’s not true of this group,” Ann reflects, “We see fruit constantly!”
And sometimes… it looks like a late-night phone call, or a student who doesn’t want to leave.
Because for the first time in a long time, they’ve found something worth staying for.