River of Life begins camp today
River of Life, a youth mission experience, will be hosted by the Rockmart First United Methodist Church July 8 – 12.
The event provides an opportunity for youth to become involved in planned activities where they share spiritual growth and fellowship while serving the needs of the elderly, handicapped and economically disadvantaged citizens of Polk County.
“River of Life is a camp like no other most have experienced,” said Pastor Jeanette Dickens. “Young people and adults from various churches will come together for five days dedicated to serving others in a new and exciting way.”
She said the church hosted the first River of Life event in 2014. “During the past year, we partnered with churches from Rockmart, Cedartown, Rome and
others in the area to give youth an opportunity to participate in an experience of serving others.”
The River of Life event begins on Wednesday, July 8 with registration, supper and orientation. Youth and adults are assigned to work teams and safety measures are discussed. Transportation and meal details are finalized for the week. A worship session ends opening day.
More than 100 youth and adult volunteers will participate in three days of activities, which begin at 7 a.m. with breakfast and devotional time. Thereafter, participants will leave for work sites under the supervision of capable and dedicated team leaders. During these three days of physical activity, participants can take time to get to know the people they are serving.
In 2015, youth will help complete 10 projects throughout Polk County. These include the Silver Comet Trail, repairing and repainting work at varied homes and other assignments.
Each day, they are transported back to the high school for showers and then to the church for leisure time, dinner and worship. Various recreational down time activities are offered during the week, including tournaments in volleyball, dodge ball or broom hockey. A prayer labyrinth was reported to be an enriching option during the past year.
On Sunday, the event culminates with a 10:30 a.m. River of Life worship service, which is open to the public. Testimonies and experiences are shared about life-changing events at the camp. Singing and an inspiring message sum up the week. A cov- ered dish lunch follows the event with memories shared through awards and a video.
Hosting River of Life takes months of planning and partnership from varied churches. This year, this list includes Due West United Methodist Church, West Ridge, Dallas UMC, Rockmart First Baptist, Cedartown First Baptist, Abundant Life and Rockmart UMC.
This year, Vacation Bible School at Rockmart UMC will coincide with River of Life activities.
The extended day will give the children an opportunity to share special time in group settings that include art, story, music and more.
For more information about River of Life, call the church at 770-6846251. First Methodist UMC is located at 135 West Church Street in Rockmart.