Have you ever wished you could live at camp? Well, these guys do! Say hello to our inaugural Teleios students: Timothy, Evan, and Braelyn! These passionate young adults are serious about serving the Lord in every aspect of their lives and have committed an entire year to LWBC’s Teleios program. Yes, you read that correctly; one whole year! We are all very excited to have them aboard the team and part of the family.
So what is Teleios exactly? Teleios is a program designed to cultivate in each student the character of Christ, so that the power of His life is released to live and work through them. The training these students will undergo consists of a mix of intensive Bible studies, classroom courses, ministry skills training, personal development, and service, all under the watchful care of seasoned mentors like Dave Hart and Chris Sutton.
The average day for a Teleios student has about as much variety as a bag of bridge mix. At any time of the week they can be serving in any area of camp. From belaying at the climbing tower, to emptying the garbage trailer, these kids get to experience first-hand what kind of work it takes to keep a ministry like Living Waters up and running. They are truly developing the loving, serving character of Jesus by selflessly working their tail-feathers off all day long.
And that’s not all! In addition to attending church, the Teleios students also attend at least two Bible studies a week, including Bible quizzing. The invaluable quality time spent in God’s Word will help to further their maturity and walk with Christ.
These students are also asked to give up a few modern conveniences, as well. The first big change they made was a six-week fast from computers and internet. For a young person in today’s society, that is a huge undertaking. Perhaps you can already see how the denying of self is already being ingrained into these student’s lives.
This brand new program is still under the “work-in-progress” category. But as always, the mission of all of our programs remains the same: “To reach, train, and equip servant leaders through the truth of God’s Word, and adventures in His creation.”
Let’s hear (or read, rather) what they have to say:
Timothy Gressman
Age: 18
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Java Chunk
Current Bible Chapter Memorization: Galatians 1
What is your favorite thing about camp?: Being able to hang around the campfires at night.
What do you hope to achieve or gain from Teleios?: To grow and mature spiritually.
What specific character trait of Jesus would you like to see reflected in you the most?: His wine-making skills. Also, I would also like to be able to see people the way Jesus sees them.
Anything to declare?: To whoever stole my teddy bear, (you know who you are) I just wanted to let you know that I forgive you… And that you are responsible for many, many sleepless nights tossing and turning, wishing I had my dear teddy. But I forgive you anyway.
Braelyn Jung
Age: 18
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Current Bible Chapter Memorization: 2 Timothy 1
What is your favorite thing about camp?: The people. Even though I’m far away from home, I still feel like I’m surrounded by a bunch of family.
What do you hope to achieve or gain from Teleios?: I would like to become ready for the real world and be more mature.
What specific character trait of Jesus would you like to see reflected in you the most?: Humility
Anything to declare?: Whatever you do, don’t push the red button!
Evan Manning
Age: 20
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Chocolate
Current Bible Chapter Memorization: Colossians 1
What is your favorite thing about camp?: There is a purpose for everything. All of the trash, and dishwashing, all of it points to a reason. It’s all for a purpose.
What do you hope to achieve or gain from Teleios?: I hope to gain a better understanding of the pursuit of Christ.
What specific character trait of Jesus would you like to see reflected in you the most?: Patience.
Anything to declare?: If you’re going to volunteer at camp, don’t volunteer in the kitchen. It’s hard, messy, and you have to deal with macaroni flying everywhere….