HoneyRock Says Goodbye to Campers, Hello to Students

This morning marked the final bus departure day for our 2010 camper programs, as we said goodbye to 262 campers (179 who were here for two weeks, 60 who were here for three weeks, and another 23 who were here for six weeks).  Departure mornings are bittersweet and filled with excitement, tears, sadness and joy as counselors and campers alike say goodbye to new friends, and the transition back into their lives at home begins for campers. 

While today is the end of our camper summer, HoneyRock is still in full swing for another two weeks.  There are currently 61 Wheaton College Freshmen out on wilderness trips.  Tomorrow 16 freshmen will arrive at Wheaton College to begin their college experience as a part of the Wheaton Passage Urban Track Program, on Monday a group of 200 student leaders from Wheaton College will come for a time of retreat and preparation for the upcoming school year, and on Tuesday another 138 Wheaton College Freshmen will arrive at HoneyRock to begin their college experience.  So, for those of us who waved goodbye to campers this morning, the work and excitement of summer ministry continues.

campers bags line the tent awaiting parent pick-up

the bays of the buses get loaded up for those being taken back home