STAFF DEVELOPMENT

At Courage, our staff is united by a deep love for the Lord and a shared passion for teaching others about Him. Every member of the team is dedicated to modeling Christ’s love, whether they’re praying with a camper, leading a group discussion, or simply being a role model. The staff at Courage Ministries doesn’t just see camp as a job—it’s a calling. They are committed to pouring into the next generation of believers, showing them the love of Christ in everything they do, and helping them grow in their own relationship with God.

A Three-Day Staff Retreat: Fellowship, Prayer, and Training

Before the busy summer camp season kicks off, our staff takes a step back to grow together in fellowship. During this retreat, the Courage team spends time in prayer, lifting up the campers, life groups, and the ministry as a whole. We dedicate time to seek God’s guidance, asking Him to lead us, empower us, and prepare us for the work ahead.

The retreat also includes training sessions focused on deepening staff knowledge of Scripture, learning how to engage with and teach campers, and equipping leaders with practical tools to foster meaningful relationships throughout the summer. This time together ensures that our team is united in vision and mission as we step into the summer with a clear purpose.

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Summer Staff Mondays: Learning, Prayer, and Preparation

Once the summer camp begins, our staff dedicates every Monday from 9 AM to 3 PM to continue growing and preparing for the week ahead. These Mondays are a crucial part of the Courage staff experience. Each week, staff members engage in Bible studies to deepen their understanding of God’s Word and how it applies to their roles as leaders. The time includes:

• Bible Study and Discussion: Staff meet to dive deeper into Scripture and in small groups, they reflect on lessons and encourage each other in their walks with Christ, encouraging one another.

• Gospel Training: Our staff learns how to present the gospel in various scenarios, from casual conversations to more structured lessons. We equip them to share the love of Christ effectively with campers in ways that resonate with each individual, fostering a deep and personal connection to the gospel.

• Prayer Over Campers: Staff members take time to pray for their campers, life groups, and the ministry. They specifically pray over their assigned campers and leaders, lifting up their needs and asking God to work in powerful ways throughout the summer.

• Preparation for the Week: Each Monday session also includes time to plan and prepare for the upcoming week of camp. Whether it's crafting engaging activities, brainstorming ways to connect with campers, or planning how to lead small groups, Mondays are spent setting the tone for a successful and impactful week.

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Saying Yes to Every Opportunity

Our staff’s commitment goes beyond weekly meetings and training sessions. At Courage, we emphasize the importance of being present and saying yes to every opportunity to spend time with campers. Whether it’s joining them for meals, playing games, leading activities, or spending time in one-on-one conversations, the Courage team is dedicated to pouring into the lives of the campers, showing them the love of Christ in everything they do. This “yes” mentality creates an environment where campers feel seen, heard, and cared for, and it builds lasting relationships that go far beyond just the summer camp.

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Post-Camp Retreat: Reflecting and Giving Thanks

At the end of the summer, after the final camp session wraps up, the Courage staff gathers for a retreat to reflect on the summer and spend quality time together. This retreat is a time of celebration, as the team looks back on the powerful experiences, spiritual growth, and relationships that have been built. It’s a time to thank one another for their dedication and hard work, to praise God for all He has done throughout the summer, and to reflect on how each staff member’s personal faith has grown through their service.

This post-camp retreat is a vital time of rest and renewal, where the team can rejoice in the fruits of their labor and recharge for what God has next. It’s also a moment to come together and celebrate God’s faithfulness throughout the summer.

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A Team Deeply Committed to Christ

​We are humbled and grateful for the ways God has used our staff to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people. We truly believe that every moment of preparation, prayer, and service is an investment in God’s Kingdom.

The dedication of the Courage staff, from retreat preparation to their “yes” mentality in serving, demonstrates a heart for the ministry and a deep desire to help others grow in their faith. Their commitment to prayer, fellowship, and preparation ensures that each summer is not only impactful but also a transformative season of spiritual growth for everyone involved.