Most would call it a recipe for disaster: European city-dwellers, African villagers, “G’day, mate” Australians, and those from every corner of North America—Windy City, Chicago; Small-town, Mississippi, Wide-open, Canada—all tossed together in a secluded Pennsylvania forest with sweltering heat, unwelcome critters, and no electronic devices to keep them busy. For two grueling weeks, they were constantly pushed both mentally and physically. Add to this that everyone ranged from 13 to 60 years old and spoke a cornucopia of languages (Dutch, French, Afrikaans, Indian and English).

The prospect of such a group getting along under ideal circumstances seems questionable at best.

Yet while these conditions would normally create chaos, something curious happened. Instead of 14 days of disagreements, hardship and disorganization, the experience was exciting, unique and memorable for all who participated—a welcome challenge.

This describes Ambassador Youth Camp 2012.

End to End

The best way to tell the story of this uncommon adventure is to start at the end of it—the final banquet. This annual event, which follows Sabbath services, began with this year’s batch of campers filing, one-by-one, into the space and finding seats at neatly laid out tables, where they enjoyed a meal together.

A real sense of accomplishment permeated the hotel meeting room. As dinner began to wind down and the clinking of utensils waned, the increasing volume of conversations echoed through the room. Campers, staff, ministers and their wives, along with other guests in attendance at the banquet, began to have a feeling that something special was about to happen. You could feel the electricity in the air.

While savoring the last bites of dessert, the Tabletopics session, in which campers answer questions about their 14-day experience, began. There was little nervousness at this point, as many addressed the audience quickly with off-the-cuff answers to general questions about AYC. These mini impromptu speeches spanned from serious responses of reflection to hilarious recollections about certain experiences.

The 45-minute Tabletopics session came to a close and the crowd’s attention turned to another final banquet tradition: the slideshow, which is a “pictorial diary” of special highlights of AYC.

As individual pictures flashed on the screen for all to see, the camp director and camp coordinator filled the room with lively, reflective commentary about each moment.

Most of these could only be fully appreciated by those who had lived them: remembering the special guest (a raccoon!) that stowed away on the camp bus while driving to and from canoeing, the painful yet triumphant climbs up Blackberry Hill, the special moments of budding friendships under physical duress, among many others. Each stirred up sweet memories and elicited smiles, laughter and a sense of camaraderie from the campers.

After the presentation, teens and several staff crowded together and began sharing additional memories—trying to reconcile in their minds that this was the final night of their AYC experience.

Eyes began to well up with tears. Fourteen days seemed like too much at the start, but now it was evident that it was not enough.

Through a sea of hugs, you could sense that strong bonds were created over the course of two weeks. The campers became lost in the emotion of the event amid a multitude of camera flashes. Nobody wanted the moment to end.

A cloud of sadness hung over the group. For any “non-camper” witnessing each of the teenagers struggle with their emotions, it was difficult to grasp what they had just gone through and why they did not want to part ways.

For these answers, one must rewind to the start of AYC two weeks prior.

Special Gathering

Campers and staffers arrived at the beautiful state park, nestled in the rolling hills, by car, van and bus. Those who had been to Ambassador Youth Camp before knew it had the ability to transform lives and the potential of creating special bonds. These teenagers confidently unloaded their gear, hardly able to contain themselves.

First-timers, however, were nervous, shy and had absolutely no idea what to expect, even if someone had tried to explain it before they arrived.

All campers were within the ages of 12 to 19. Including the volunteer staff who worked directly with the campers, kitchen staff, ministers and other administrative staff, there were more in attendance than at any other previous camp. The number fluctuated as Headquarters employees and ministers regularly visited to give lectures or help with activities.

This larger group was made possible by the warm-hearted gifts and donations from brethren around the world. Many campers would not have been able to attend if it were not for the generosity—and vision—of Church members who understand the dramatic effect AYC has on young people. Many of these teenagers are battered daily by the horrific pressures of a sick and degenerate world. These contributions pay huge dividends in young people’s lives.

After exchanging initial greetings, campers found their way to their assigned cabins. Accommodations were rustic, to say the least. Many campers experienced the spontaneous arrival of various types of critters and bugs. This was not a deterrent, however. On the contrary, it was a welcomed and much-joked-about fact of “life in the wild.” Veteran campers knew what to expect and helped “rookies” appreciate this part of God’s Creation.

The first day was a “preparation day” used to establish rules and regulations. But this did not mean campers did not take the opportunity to have fun together! It did not take long for a muddy game of flag football to break out after dinner. A much needed thunderstorm provided some of the boy campers the right muddy terrain to let loose some pent-up energy.

The following day was the beginning of what would become routine. After gathering in front of the dining hall, usual greetings were exchanged: “Good morning, ladies!” the boys would bellow. The girls would respond enthusiastically, “Good morning, gentlemen!”

Then the boys and girls would exchange camp chants that had been written the night before. After a blessing on the meal, campers would file into the dining hall to enjoy tasty cuisine prepared by the kitchen staff.

Following breakfast, morning lectures from RCG ministers allowed campers to learn about God’s way of life. Then everyone scrambled to get ready for the day’s activities.

Most events lasted all day, so participants burned several thousands of calories. The kitchen staff worked hard to refuel everyone to ensure that their energy levels were at their peak. Well-balanced and delicious meals were always prepared in a timely fashion and everyone looked forward to them with great anticipation. Even with all the work spent preparing these meals, the kitchen staff still found time to write several of their own songs to perform at morning gatherings.

AYC staffers, all baptized members ranging in age from 20 to 36, worked constantly with the youth to make sure everything went smoothly. They also participated in writing and singing camp songs themselves. The unity among everyone was extraordinary!

Beyond all the athletic activities, attendees also had the opportunity to experience the thrill of public speaking. The boys and girls were separated into two groups, and then stood before their peers to deliver short “Icebreaker” speeches. Later at camp, everyone had the chance to give longer speeches about a specific interesting experience in their lives.

By the time the banquet occurred, campers did not fear standing up before an audience and answering questions. Those who may have had inhibitions at the start of camp showed what hard work and some courage can produce.

Camp Highlights

Throughout AYC, campers learned that God’s Way is profitable, enjoyable and challenging, and focuses on giving to others. The day at the high and low ropes courses proved this, and provided one of the most poignant moments during the camp.

The event involved a series of individual and team challenges. It tested campers’ abilities to face fears, challenge themselves physically and mentally, and work together as teams. Everyone was pushed to their limits at some point.

One of the many inspiring highlights was when three teams of two participated in a challenge called Giant’s Ladder. Everyone craned their necks to watch campers climb up an oversized rope ladder that would have befitted a “giant” (hence the name). The structure stretched toward the forest ceiling. Watching the pairs employ teamwork, overcome their fear of heights, and figure out how to navigate to the top was inspiring to witness.

Each of the three teams completed the difficult challenge, but it was not easy. Bystanders were mesmerized by the resourcefulness and teamwork needed to overcome the difficult obstacle.

Another activity that tested each camper’s resolve was the Amazing Race—AYC’s special version of a scavenger hunt. Teams had to think creatively to accomplish tasks as quickly as they could. There were difficult moments for all, but no one gave up.

The bonfire was another cherished event. After staff built a roaring fire with flames shooting up to 20 feet in the air, a friendly competition ensued. The boys and girls challenged each other to write the most creative camp songs and deliver them in an energetic manner. A sea of voices thundered through the forest—most assuredly keeping a myriad of critters away from the camp!

Always a highlight of AYC, the whitewater rafting experience once again lived up to everyone’s expectations. It was a real adrenaline rush! The raging river created challenging twists and turns around every rock. Many experienced the cool water, some voluntarily—others unexpectedly by falling in!

It is not hard to understand after experiencing days of such activities how a group of diverse backgrounds could bond so closely. In the world, such diversity causes hate and division. At God’s camp, diversity is embraced and builds enduring friendships.

Combine the ingredients of fun and laughter with the occasional scrapes, bruises and aching muscles, and moments of searching deep inside oneself to find strength and courage to face a towering obstacle, and you have the recipe that held these teenagers together for 14 days. It also was the reason for their melancholy moods as the experience ended.

Why AYC Works

There will never be another AYC 2012, but there will be another camp next year—AYC 2013—with its own unique set of challenges and memories. And just as with AYC 2012, it will continue to be successful in bringing people of all backgrounds together in peace and harmony because it will contain the most vital ingredient for any endeavor: the Great Creator’s involvement!

AYC is God’s camp and His government is in place there. Even though there were some tough times and difficult moments as any two-week excursion would have, it demonstrated that when God is at the center of anything, something special always results.

Teenagers, resolve now to be a part of this extraordinary experience, whether returning or attending for your first time. Get in top physical shape. Exercise and begin practicing the active way of life God designed for you to enjoy. Eat smart and in moderation. Begin saving immediately to cover the cost of your attendance. Again, start planning now for AYC 2013!

If you are beyond your teenage years, consider volunteering as a staff member. Working with the youth in God’s Church and watching young lives blossom is one of the most rewarding experiences this life has to offer.

If you are an adult and unable to assist physically, begin scrimping, budgeting and saving to help someone attend this life-changing experience. You will be blessed for your efforts and both you and the teenagers you help will be changed in ways you cannot even begin to imagine.

As part of the AYC experience, campers listened to a writing lecture and worked with Editorial Department staff from Headquarters. Many teens were given an article assignment that has been printed in the magazine you are reading. To see example after example of AYC’s recipe for success in action, and the batch of young people that are being given an opportunity to learn a better way of life, read on. Look at the pictures of all the smiling, happy teenagers you see and compare them to the miserable, unhappy looks of rebellious youth in the world around you. This magazine speaks for itself.

Every year, youth of God’s Church are given an invaluable opportunity by Him to be a part of something special—as are you in helping them to be able to attend AYC.

Enjoy this issue, and see you next year!