1) Camp Perfect Wings puts smiles on the faces of campers and volunteers alike (Photo: Brian Hobbs)
Numerous Baptist churches across Oklahoma have a dedicated ministry for people with special needs. People from these ministries, along with others, come together each summer for Camp Perfect Wings, a three-day camp experience that blesses all who are involved.
The 2015 Camp Perfect Wings took place at CrossTimbers Mission Adventure Camp in Davis on May 28-30 and the theme was “Tagged: Wonderfully Made,” based on Psalm 139:14, “I will praise You because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made.”
2) Volunteers at the nursing station, from right, include Melissa Hulsey and Jeanette Burkhart (Photo: Brian Hobbs)
According to Keith Burkhart, Men’s & Family Ministries Specialist for the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, a total of 193 people attended, 102 of which were special needs campers, 67 were “buddies” (volunteers), with 24 support volunteers and staff. Campers ranged from 8 to 83 years old.
In spite of rainy conditions, nothing could dampen the spirit of those who attended. With plenty of times for worship and teaching, campers also enjoyed a wide range of activities, games and experiences.
F.A.I.T.H. Riders shared rides with campers (Photo: Provided)
In addition to staffers who help make Camp Perfect Wings possible, a number of volunteers are needed. This includes “buddies” (sponsors) who host the campers, activity leaders and camp nurses.
Kathy Collins, a nurse, has been volunteering at Camp Perfect Wings for five years. “Seeing my friends year after year, and building relationships with them, has been such a blessing,” said Collins, a member of Bethany, Council Road. “I think I am blessed by the experience even more than the campers.” Melissa Hulsey, who also volunteers at the nursing station, agrees and spends her time each year as a volunteer.
This year, several F.A.I.T.H. Riders came to the camp to connect with the special-needs campers and allow them to sit on their motorcycles and take them on a ride. One of the Riders was Troy Dooley, a member of Harrah, First, who has been coming to Wings for the last several years.
Despite some outdoor activities being cancelled, campers found time to enjoy fellowship, music and more. (Photo: Brian Hobbs)
“We look forward to it each year,” he said. “A lot of bikers don’t necessarily like people crawling over their bikes, but we love the time with them and the whole experience.”
The 2016 Camp Perfect Wings is already set for June 2-4, 2016, and Burkhart is expecting another great event.
“Our volunteers share the Gospel and love of Jesus with each of these precious people,” he said. “You can truly see the love on everyone’s faces and it is a beautiful preview of heaven. God’s love is here.”
For more information on Camp Perfect Wings, visit www.bgco.org/CampPerfectWings.
