This summer, The United Methodist Church of Geneva, Batavia and Wesley UMC are trying something both familiar and fresh.
On two Saturdays, July 25 and August 22, from 9:30 – Noon, we will gather for Compassion Camp, a VBS experience for children entering 4K through 5th grade, supported and joined in the fun by both youth and adult volunteers. Together, we’ll explore what it means to follow Jesus by practicing compassion: for ourselves, for our neighbors, and for the world God loves.
So…what is Compassion Camp?
Compassion Camp is based on a curriculum developed by Illustrated Ministries that helps children and families change the world through lovingkindness. Through Bible stories, creative activities, music, movement, and meaningful conversations paired actions participants rather than simply learning about compassion, are invited to practice it.
On July 25, our theme is “All Around Me” and we’ll explore how compassion jumps into action. Through the story of Miriam, we’ll discover the central principles of empathy and compassion, learning how paying attention to the needs of others can lead us to courageous acts of care.
Then, on August 22, our theme is “With the World” and focuses on how compassion sees the big picture. We’ll reflect on the mystery of Pentecost and God’s love for all creation, considering how we can care for people, communities, and places we may never meet or visit.
Each gathering will include worship, storytelling, hands-on activities, service opportunities, and opportunities to build relationships with one another and with our wider community.
And…why are we doing it this way?
This year, Compassion Camp will be held at The Neighbor Project rather than within the walls of a church building.
That choice is, yes, practical, given our current 1874 Project but more than practical…. it is intentional.
As followers of Jesus and as United Methodists, we are called not only to welcome our neighbors but also to be present with them. We believe faith formation happens not only in classrooms and sanctuaries, but also in shared spaces where relationships are built and community is strengthened. Hosting Compassion Camp at The Neighbor Project allows us to live more fully into our commitment to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. While also continuing to grow our relationship with our ministry partner, The Neighbor Project.
Thanks to the graciousness of The Neighbor Project, we will gather in their secure building and courtyard at 32 S. Broadway, Aurora where we will learn about compassion while surrounded by people who are actively working to build stronger neighborhoods through home ownership. We will practice seeing God’s image in one another as multiple communities pull together and we raise our voices in song. And we will remember that faith is not something we keep to ourselves as we share a simple meal together after camp. By gathering in a community-centered space, we hope everyone will experience what it means to be good neighbors and faithful disciples because compassion is more than a feeling. It is love in motion. It is noticing, caring, and responding.
Awesome! But…how can I get involved?
There are several ways to support Compassion Camp this summer:
Pray. Pray for the children who will attend, for the families who will participate, for our volunteers, and for the relationships that will be formed. Pray that God’s Spirit will help us grow in compassion and courage as our eye are opened to possibilities.
Volunteer. Adults and youth are needed to help welcome participants, lead activities or age groups, assist with crafts, games, or food, and create a joyful, safe environment for everyone involved. You can sign up here.
Invite children. Registration is open for children entering 4K through 5th grade. If you have children, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends who would enjoy a fun and meaningful summer faith experience, we encourage you to invite them to join us.
Youth can serve too! Students in grades 6–12 are invited to help as assistant leaders during Compassion Camp. Youth volunteers will support activity stations, help younger children participate, and serve as role models throughout the day. We are also looking for youth (and adults) who would like to help with decorating and preparing the space before each event.
Whether you can attend, volunteer, pray, invite someone else, or all the above, there is a place for you in this ministry.
So…this is familiar, just a wider circle?
Yes, and we know that whenever we try something new, it can feel a little uncertain. Compassion Camp may look different from programs we’ve offered in the past. The location is different. The format is slightly different. The opportunities for connection are different. And yet, at its heart, this is deeply familiar work because this is the work of loving God and loving neighbor…of helping children discover that compassion is a way of life…of building relationships that cross generations and expand beyond our church walls.
Most of all, this is an invitation to continue becoming the kind of community Jesus envisioned…one where strangers become known, we are all neighbors, and compassion helps us see that we all belong to God’s big, beautiful family…that’s larger than we could ever imagine. We hope you’ll join us.
