July 11, 2026
What an unforgettable way to wrap up an incredible week at Camp Kesher!
We began our final day together by celebrating Shabbat in worship. Derek Bloomenthal led us through the Shabbat liturgy, and Counselor Ben brought G-d’s Word to life with an interactive skit about Timothy, featuring the help of some of our wonderfully silly staff members. Through laughter and participation, campers learned several important truths: to “eat” G-d’s Word and be nourished by it, to keep their eyes focused on the main point—Yeshua, and to use the unique gifts G-d has given them to honor Him. Timothy’s example reminded us that when we faithfully train in G-d’s Word, He gives us a life of purpose, no matter our age. We ended our service the best way we know how—with joyful dancing and heartfelt worship!
Henry also shared an important reminder about honoring one another by asking permission before posting photos of fellow campers or counselors on social media. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing this at home, as some members of our camp family prefer not to have their photos shared online.
We received a Color War update and learned that the Blue Team was still holding onto the lead. But with one of camp’s biggest events just around the corner, every point still mattered!
Before dismissing Mishkan, we shared a meaningful announcement. Our beloved Steeple Chase has officially been renamed Ryan’s Race in honor of Ryan Karp. Ryan’s impact on Camp Kesher is woven into the heart of this place, and renaming one of our favorite traditions was a beautiful way to celebrate his legacy. There wasn’t a single objection—only grateful hearts remembering someone who is deeply loved and greatly missed.
Then…it was time!
Ryan’s Race is a camp-wide relay unlike any other. Team leaders carefully assigned each camper to a challenge that highlighted favorite camp memories from throughout the week. Campers sprinted from one activity to the next, racing through boating, archery, carpetball, 9 Square, mini golf, making a water toast, swimming relay races complete with cannonballs, field games, and even reciting all five memory verses! The excitement was nonstop as teammates cheered each other on from every inch of the campgrounds. The competition stayed incredibly close from start to finish, but in the end, Orange Team raced their way to victory!
Just as the rain graciously held off, campers gathered for our annual chalk mural competition. Both Blue and Orange Teams worked together to create colorful masterpieces centered around this year’s theme, Built Different, complete with beautiful artwork and meaningful Bible verses. It was a wonderful picture of creativity, teamwork, and faith all coming together.
And because one exciting event simply isn’t enough for Camp Kesher…
The afternoon erupted into our legendary water balloon and color powder battle, followed by an epic Slip ‘N Slide down Non Goose Poop Field! Laughter echoed across camp as campers slid through the water, washed away clouds of color powder, and made memories they’ll never forget. Best of all, despite all the excitement, G-d graciously kept everyone safe!
Our final Mishkan of the week was truly one for the books. Each cabin presented an Outreach Skit, blending humor with powerful messages of redemption. It was evident that throughout the week, friendships had grown deeper and campers had come to know Yeshua in a more personal way. The skits reflected not only creativity and laughter, but hearts that had been changed.
Then came one of the most anticipated moments of the entire week—the Color Team Songs!
Before announcing the final scores, Zachariah revealed just how incredibly close the competition had become. It all came down to the team songs!
Blue Team took the stage first, accompanied by Micah on guitar. Their original songs were clever, heartfelt, and full of joy as they sang about how Yeshua makes life complete. They even had the crowd smiling with lyrics set to familiar pop melodies, proclaiming, “Jesus, You light up our world like nobody else… You know that we’re Built Different!”
Then Orange Team burst onto the stage with infectious energy, clapping, dancing, and getting the entire audience involved from the very first note. Their creative songs declared the Gospel with boldness and celebrated how the Spirit is moving throughout Camp Kesher. Before long, campers, counselors, judges, and even spectators were singing along, joining in the choreographed motions, and celebrating together. Their enthusiasm, unity, and camp spirit earned Orange Team the final victory.
When all the points were tallied, Orange Team was crowned this year’s Color War Champion!
But the truth is…
Everyone won this week.
Throughout these seven unforgettable days, campers discovered what it truly means to be Built Different. They learned that G-d delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. No matter our past, our present, or even the mistakes we’ll make in the future, Yeshua’s love never changes. His forgiveness is always available, and He never stops pursuing a relationship with us.
God can use anyone who is willing—even children and teenagers—to make an eternal difference. When we place our lives in His hands, He can move mountains.
Thank you for trusting us with your campers this week. It has been an incredible privilege to watch friendships grow, faith deepen, and lives transformed. We pray the lessons learned at Camp Kesher continue long after campers return home.
Until next summer…
Shalom, and remember—you are truly Built Different!
