Camp DUO – St. Nick’s News Aug. 8, 2025

Full St. Nick’s News for August 8, 2025

Dear Friends,

Friends, my heart is overflowing after an amazing week of Camp DUO—Do Unto Others—here at St. Nick’s. From Monday’s first story to Thursday’s final “Amen,” our campus was alive with children learning, serving, and discovering just how big God’s love can be.

Each day we stepped into a Bible story that called us to action—feeding the hungry, caring for our neighbors, tending God’s creation, and honoring the voices of children. And our campers didn’t just listen—they acted. They decorated grocery bags for Provisions, put together presents for Arlon Seay Staff and Teachers, and presents for Comal County Green Santa Program. They also made pet toys and snuffle mats, art, keychains, and bookmarks in order to raise funds for people in need. They learned they have the ability to bless others and small acts can make a big difference.

On Thursday, our campers gathered for an important moment—they voted on where to send the funds we raise. Their choice? Flood relief through the Diocese of West Texas to help St. Peter’s- Kerrville – Hope and Healing Campaign. This Sunday, you’ll have the chance to join their efforts of bringing hope and healing to this world, by picking out a keychain, pet toy, or piece of art (lovingly made this past week) and donating to this cause that’s close to their hearts. You can also find the link to donate to flood relief – here.

Our trip to Provisions was another eye-opening moment. We learned that Texas ranks #1 in food insecurity in our nation, and that Provisions serves thousands of people each month. Weslea Miller, the director of Provisions Outreach, shared that they are always in need of items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, feminine products, toilet paper, dish soap, and laundry detergent. Our children came away with the understanding that hunger and need are right here in our own backyard—and that we are called to respond.

I am so profoundly proud of our children and all of our youth helpers. Their hard work and willingness to sacrifice is inspiring. We talked this week about how hard it is to make something and give it away. So. So. Hard. But one faithful and very wise young lady pointed out – “it’s not as hard when you know your art is going to help others and a good cause.” Indeed. Such wisdom and willingness to bless others!

And Sunday the blessing continues! This Sunday, we’ll gather for our Backpack Blessing at both the 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. worship services. Children, youth, students of all ages, and teachers are invited to bring your school bags so we can bless you and the year ahead. We’ll also make backpack tags to decorate our bags and carry that blessing with us all year long.

After the 9:30 service, we’ll enjoy a picnic of hotdogs, hamburgers, and chips—a big shoutout and thank you to the Hunt family for hosting us!

Invite your friends and join us for this church family gathering. Come for the blessing, stay for the fellowship, and leave knowing you are so very blessed and so immeasurably loved.

God’s Peace, Love, and Blessings,
Beth+