|
Robert first worked as a counselor in the summer of 1993. Then, in
1995, he was the program director all year round. I was there the
summer of 1995 and 1996 as a counselor. So we met the Summer of 1995. I
knew there was something different about Robert immediately, and I soon
found out it was Jesus. You can always tell when someone has been
redeemed.
We worked together and loved those campers and ended up loving each other as well. He proposed to me on the corner of the main trail and staff housing on Christmas Eve of 1995 - we had known each other for 4 months. We were married 9 months later at the Rockfish dining hall on the edge of the lake on a beautiful September day just a week or so after Hurricane Fran.
Camp Rockfish saved my life in many ways. I was saved when I first went to Rockfish, but I wasn't living like it, and I was engaged to a man I didn't love and who didn't love the Lord. Working at camp taught me so much about God and His hand in my life. I made life-long friends and I met my husband.
We recently visited Rockfish, and although so many things have changed a few have remained - staff lounge is STILL a disaster place (you gotta love it) and you immediately feel the presence of God in every nook and cranny: the scripture verses taped to the walls, the goofy songs, the smiling faces of the kids, campfire circle, Bible studies, one-on-one with hurting and lost campers and being reminded of God's grace everyday you are there... Rockfish is a special place of discovery - discovering God and His purpose in your life.
Robert and I will always treasure our memories of Rockfish. We plan to send our children to camp there. And who knows? Perhaps they'll even work as counselors there someday. It's been 11 years since we worked there, but somehow as long as Rockfish is there I feel like things are right in the world. Thinking of camp reminds me of where I have been and who I have become in the Lord. It was the beginning of my spiritual life - where I felt I truly begin to live for Jesus.
I hope to discover many more stories of hope and love and new beginnings from other Rockfish campers, friends and alumni. May they touch the hearts of many and may His peace go with you on your journey.
Joyfully,
Gisela Crider |
