Young Men Have Amazing "Duty to God" Camp

 

    This past week the Young Men (Aaronic Priesthood) participated in a stake "Duty to God" camp in Hollister, California.  Priest age boys acted as DL's (district leaders,) mentoring the younger boys--structured much like a mission.
   As reported by Kelly Farlee, Bryce Farlee, Kedren Farlee and Matt Cooper, there were a lot of sporting activities:  BB shooting, shotgun shooting of clay pigeons, tug-of-war, swimming in the ocean, and much more.
    Along with the physical events, there was an overriding emphasis on spiritual growth.  The young men were directed to leave their mobile devices home for the week.  Their theme was D&C 19:23 which emphasized learning of Christ and finding peace.  To help them find this peace during the week they had a special sacred grove where they could quietly read, pray, or deeply ponder the meaning of this verse and its application in their personal lives.  They listened to special talks by Patriarch Jim Cook and Stake President Joseph Anderson.
     Newly called missionary Evan Webb taught a lesson about how the spirit can change someone.  He compared it to "physical vs. chemical."  As an object lesson he showed a piece of wet paper.  This is physical.  It is possible to dry it out and get the paper back.  But if you set the paper on fire there is a chemical change that makes it impossible to come back to paper again.  Elder Webb explained that you can have a desire to change, but you must have the spirit to help you.

   Following are pictures and comments about some of the activities.

Bishop Tom Busi of the Ione Ward, who "broke his leg," is carried off on a stretcher.  During the camp the Young Men learned how to make a stretcher, as well as a splint for a broken leg.  Mokelumne Ward First Counselor Tyler Burton also broke his leg and had to be carried out on a stretcher, but his picture was not available.

At the end of the camp, a trophy was to be awarded to the ward team who had the most all-around points in the games during the week. Mokelumne River Ward was tied with Galt's Twin Cities Ward, so the two teams competed in a tug-of-ward to determine the winner.  According to Evan Webb, "We broke them in less than 10 seconds!!"

This is the  #1 trophy with the #1 team.

You can find it displayed in Bishop Holden's office!

The Video: "Duty to God Camp 2018"

Watch this excellent video produced by Jordan Clark of the Vintage Ward. You will see lots of Mokelumne River Ward Young Men because (editor's note) they are active, awesome and the greatest kids ever!