This week my family traveled to see the eclipse in the path of totality. During the drive, we listened to multiple podcasts about the science of eclipses, read some books, and generally did everything we could to prepare our first grader (and his parents) to understand and fully appreciate what we were about to experience. And yet, all that prep, all the pictures, videos, and explanations did not even scratch the surface of what it felt like to be there in person; to see the sun disappear with our own eyes, to experience the cool on our skin, hear the quieting of the birds, just sense with our whole bodies that we were in the midst of something unique and magnificent. I hope that many of you were able to travel into the path of totality or took the time to look up at the partial eclipse here in Eastern PA to see a true wonder of creation.

As we enter the final months of preparation for Summer Camp 2024, I've been thinking about this idea of "you have to see it for yourself." Trying to put into words what camp will mean for a potential camper is can be challenging for camp staff as we travel to churches and share about BCC with new families. Chatting with incoming summer staff during interviews about what being a camper meant to them and why they now want to be on summer staff is often a harder question than it would seem at first glance. I imagine even diehard campers have a hard time telling their friends why it's a dealbreaker to try to schedule something during "their" session of camp. Sometimes the answer to why Bear Creek Camp is so special is simply: You have to see it for yourself.

We can't for what this summer has in store for our campers and summer staff; for the things planned and the moments of impact that only happen because of the magic of this place and our community. You can read below about ways to support campers through our silent auction and are invited to join us here at camp for May Play Day and our 50th Summer Celebration. Thank you for being a part of the BCC Family!



Collin Grooms - Executive Director