This year, at the beginning of August, Morning Star Camp went “Out West!” for a one-week adventure with Saint Joan of Arc Parish in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho! The 55 girls who attended camped in tents and ‘roughed it’ for the week in the beautiful woods and surroundings of Farragut State Park.
The days started with Mass and worked their way into the routine of breakfast, catechism, music and art in the scenic woods of the state park! After lunch campers would pack in the bus and head down to the lake, all while singing rounds and listening to stories, which were also interspersed throughout the week during meal times.
Mid-week the Sisters and campers went on a hike led by Fr. Denis Gordon, FSSP, who shared short stories and spiritual tips along the way. Everyone enjoyed the mountainous vista, a bag lunch and a well-earned break at the top of the mountain. Later on, the girls also got to participate in the traditional Saint Joan of Arc obstacle course run on the campsite. A great activity in teamwork!
In the afternoon the girls had some free time, and then they met at the chapel tent for Rosary, followed by dinner. Evenings were filled with field games of kickball, dodgeball, ultimate frisbee and soccer, with the additional excitement of making sure no one stepped in gopher holes!
And what is camping without a campfire? They seemed to get better every night! The sound of voices singing out the Morning Star theme song, or the rallying “Viva Cristo Rey!” echoing through the woods, the s’more making, stories, and question sessions, all made for very memorable times.
After the campfire on the last night, the girls processed through the campground with candles, while praying the litany of Loreto and singing beautiful hymns to Our Lady. The procession ended for night prayers at the chapel tent which was lit up with candles on the altar. The week seemed to fly by, and the last morning ended with farewells and the tradition of writing notes and signatures in books.
The Sisters would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to Fr. Gordon and all those who helped make the week a fun, safe, and faith-filled experience in the sprit of “To Jesus through Mary!” May our Lady bless you and reward you always! You will be in our prayers!
Thank you to Our Lady the Morning Star for a wonderful week in Idaho!