Every year, teenagers of The Restored Church of God gather from across the globe for Ambassador Youth Camp. The word “ambassador” speaks volumes as to the purpose of the two-week event. It comes from II Corinthians 5: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ…” (vs. 20).

In other words, those living God’s Way should be ambassadors—shining examples—of the principles outlined in the Bible.

Everything about AYC is planned with this in mind. A mixture of sports, outdoor activities, leadership-training opportunities, and helpful lectures work to achieve this goal.

Camp provides the perfect opportunity for campers and staff to immerse themselves in God’s way of life without the negative influences of the world. This allows attendees to have an abundance of fun—all while meeting new friends who believe as they do, participating in engaging activities, learning life skills, and overcoming fears.

AYC 2014 was brimming with such life-changing experiences! For the first time in the camp’s eight-year existence, it was held in the woods of central Ohio at the Richland Rural Life Center in the city of Mansfield. Compared to previous sites, this new locale offered a more spacious dining hall that was used for a wide variety of events. Bunkhouses afforded an extra level of order and efficiency to the living quarters.

As with every year, daily lectures were the cornerstone of teaching campers and staff God’s Way. Each stressed the importance of applying biblical standards, developing correct principles, and making positive choices. Topics focused on developing a well-rounded knowledge base and a balanced personality. They included the importance of good communication, resisting negative peer pressure, proper dating principles, biblical agriculture, and how the wisdom of the Proverbs can apply to teenagers.

In addition, attendees had the opportunity to draw close to God by being alone with their thoughts while surrounded by the beauty of His Creation. Being removed from the fast-paced modern world and the distractions of 21st century technology also helped facilitate this. Youth were encouraged to meditate on the lectures and do personal Bible studies during free time.

Throughout the 14 days, campers and staff alike learned that following God’s Way produces happiness, joy and peace. Whether it was volleyball, dodgeball, soccer, canoeing, dancing, public speaking, hiking, softball, art lessons, a grammar class, swimming, archery, or a zipline tour—participants built lasting friendships, developed character, and formed memories to last a lifetime.

Attendees were exhorted to not only exhibit the ambassador mentality for two weeks, but to take it home with them and make it a way of life.

One way their shining examples live on is through this publication. During AYC, campers wrote down their lessons and experiences. The fruits of these efforts are the articles contained within the pages of this magazine. It also contains a photographic record of the many moments of triumph, laughter, teamwork and good, clean fun had by all.

Teenagers of The Restored Church of God, if you are considering attending camp next year, this special magazine issue is especially for you. If you value the opinions of others your age, take the opportunity to hear them (and see them in some cases) firsthand! Allow direct accounts about all the fun at camp to sink in as you begin contemplating just how important attending AYC 2015 is to you.

For readers of all ages, these accounts also create a clear picture of a unique group of teenagers. These are young ladies and gentlemen truly putting the ambassador in Ambassador Youth Camp.

We hope you enjoy this magazine!