From May 30 to June 6, youth from across The Diocese of Kansas and The Diocese of West Missouri joined together for Mega Camp, a summer tradition that brings youth together for a week of worship, connection, and fun. Meredith Seaton, Youth Missioner for The Diocese of West Missouri, served as one of the volunteers this year and witnessed firsthand the impact camp can have on young people.
“My week at Mega Camp was full, busy, and genuinely joyful,” she said.
Each day began in the cabins, where volunteers helped campers get ready for the day and set a positive tone with music and encouragement. After breakfast, cabins took on daily responsibilities such as cleaning, assisting in the dining hall, or gathering supplies for activities.
After youth finished their morning routines, campers participated in big group activities and team-building games, followed by family group discussions, where campers explored scripture using two different translations and reflected on passages that stood out to them. Throughout the day, campers also participated in YMCA-led “Y-Times.”
“Campers got to experience a wide range of activities,” Seaton said. “High ropes, low ropes, horseback riding, arts and crafts, big Swing, boating, and all the classic camp favorites.”
While there was plenty of fun activities, faith remained at the center of the experience. Daily worship included music, prayer, snacks, and reflection.
“As the week went on, youth became more confident and eager to participate in worship,” Seaton shared. “They volunteered to read scripture, lead prayers, and help with devotions or Compline. Watching them step into leadership and engage more deeply each day was meaningful.”
One of the most rewarding parts of the week was watching campers grow in confidence and build meaningful friendships. Seaton’s cabin included both returning campers and first-time attendees, and she watched them quickly form a supportive community.
“They encouraged each other through challenges, especially big ones like the giant swing, and celebrated each other’s successes,” she said. “Their confidence and friendships grew noticeably throughout the week.”
One particular moment that stood out was seeing the camp community in action. A camper from western Kansas, who had grown up with limited access to technology, found herself unfamiliar with many of the apps and trends her peers discussed. Rather than excluding her, the other girls in the cabin welcomed her warmly.
“[They] reassured her that she wasn’t missing anything and welcomed her warmly,” Seaton recalled. “They helped her feel included and showed her how refreshing it can be to connect face-to-face. It was a beautiful moment of kindness and community.”
For Seaton, experiences like this highlight why programs such as Mega Camp are so important for young people today.
“Camp gives youth a chance to step out of their everyday routines and experience something different,” she said. “They get to try new challenges, work as a team, and explore faith in a hands-on, engaging way. And having a week without phones helps them connect more deeply with each other.”
Looking ahead, Seaton is excited to bring some of what she saw back to West Missouri’s youth ministries. In particular, she hopes to help young people build relationships earlier, so they feel more connected and confident when they attend diocesan events.
“Knowing even one or two familiar faces makes a huge difference,” she said.
When asked what advice she would give to anyone considering volunteering at Mega Camp next year, her answer was simple.
“Do it. It’s incredibly rewarding to walk alongside youth in their formation, build relationships, and be part of a community that blends faith and fun so naturally.”
