Clergy Camp

A small group of Diocese of Eastern Michigan clergy are spending this week at Camp Chickagami, my neighbor to the north on Lake Esau.  This event happens every other year, alternating with the Clergy Conference at Mackinac Island.  Turnout this time is a bit leaner than in past years, but some who planned to come ran into unexpected demands at their parishes.

Programming for "Clergy Camp" is minimal.  We've done Morning Prayer together, and we will celebrate Holy Eucharist tomorrow.  Campfires in the evening have featured S'mores.  We also shared a "bring something to grill and a dish to pass" meal last night.  A group activity, purely optional, is scheduled each day.  Today's is a rock-skipping contest just before lunch.

Aside from that everyone is free to sleep late, talk into the wee hours, read whatever book one brought along, and otherwise chill out.  On Monday a group of campers visited our two lighthouses, and Lela climbed to the very top of the New Light.  Others have gone kayaking or paddle-boating on Lake Esau.  And, of course, there's always beach time — Camp Chick has a very nice sandy swimming beach.

Everyone brought a dish to share.  The Bishop, Todd Ousley,
offered beans baked with sauerkraut.  Very tasty!

Sue, Elizabeth, and Leta chat before dinner.

Ann and Todd check out their childrens' checkers game.

Todd and Brian stand watch over the cooker, laden with
steaks, burgers, and foil packets of fish from Lake Esau.

Finally, everyone gathered at a shady table to eat.
(L to r) Brian, Sue, Elizabeth, Leta, Maggie, Todd, and Bruce.

The participants seem to have great affection for the Camp and Lake Esau.  Sue, who is visiting the Camp for the first time, reported herself in love with the place!  I hope that bodes well for the Camp Chick's future.

This afternoon at 4:00 those who wish to do so are invited to my home for tea.  I wondered via e-mail what one serves with tea.  Joanie responded with a great recipe for blueberry muffins, and Michael urged cucumber sandwiches (no watercress this far north, I'm afraid).  Michael said I should also be on my best behavior.  That's asking rather a lot. •••