The Summer after graduating from high school and almost a year after my parent’s divorce, I was still living by myself in our family’s home. Both of my parents and my siblings went their separate ways and left me to fend for myself. Needless to say, I’ve struggled with abandonment issues ever since.
One week in July, I received a phone call from my brother. He was working at Covenant Park Bible Camp for the summer and asked if I’d be interested in coming out for a week. I told him thanks, but I had no way of paying for a week of camp. He told me that I could qualify for a scholarship through the Moose Lake Covenant Church. At this point I was confused. First of all, I had never even heard of a summer camp scholarship. And second of all, I had never attended a service at the Covenant church, let alone be considered for this generous gift. And besides, I seemed to be doing just fine without those “church people” back in my life. I almost declined out of sheer spite for the kids my age who actually had stability in their lives, but since I would be able to be around my brother again, I decided to swallow my pride and accept the offer.
Although I walked into that week of camp feeling undeserving, God used it as a chance to plant a seed of hope and encouragement. I remember each and every small group, chapel service, and Thursday night altar call service “U-Turn.” There was a defining moment between my brother and I during a bonfire that pushed me over the edge. We had been discussing our parents’ divorce and the ramifications in our lives because of it. I lost it. Crying in his arms, I was able to finally unload a year’s worth of hurt.
Today I look back and am so grateful for the opportunity that I was given. Because of the generosity of a congregation I had never even met, I was able to spend a week in a healthy environment with people who cared about me. I had spent the better part of a year distancing myself from God and losing my identity, but this week gave me a chance to reset and remind myself of who I really am. I don’t know for sure what that summer would have held for me if I hadn’t attended camp, but I do know that I will always be grateful for the gift I was given.
Taylor Agnew
P.S.
If you haven’t read Brad’s story, check it out in the link below:
Agnew Family Ministry 