We Are One Body

Father Bernard Youth Center photo

Campers gather round to listen and participate in liturgical music.

MOUNT ANGEL - "We Are One Body," a newly launched three-day camp for Catholic youth and youth ministers, took place last month at the Father Bernard Youth Center here. Modeled after the successful "One Bread One Cup," founded in Indiana by Robert Feduccia of Oregon Catholic Press and spiritandsong.com, the meeting attracted 40 participants and focused on training in parts of the Mass of interest to attendees - roles including music ministers, extraordinary ministers of Communion, environment ministers, lectors, servers and hospitality, among others.
A variety of activities were offered as part of the camp; in addition to food, dance and music, participants were enlightened in sessions given by Feduccia, who discussed the meaning of living in service to the Body of Christ.
Several adults volunteered to be group leaders for the long weekend - John Rico helped lead prayer services; Karen Rivelli shepherded the Ministry of Hospitality track; Michal Horace facilitated promotional and financial support from the archdiocese; Tony Morris handled behind-the-scenes work; Bernadette Wagner led the games, as well as icebreakers during opening night; and

Carolyn Trumble served as the overall program coordinator.
"We had no problem recruiting adult leaders for the camp," said Ken Canedo, a liturgical composer who offered group guidance during the weekend.
The weekend proceeded smoothly with an available person to address every need. After arriving and settling into camp, participants were given an introduction and attended a general session. Small group teams were created and assessed, and evening prayer concluded their first day of camp.
Shortly into their week-end, a positive vibe began to generate. One youth in par¬

ticular discovered that this camp's intended purpose was more than simply effective.
"The sessions were awe-some," said Greg Bentz, a local musician who plays music at various churches and youth group functions around Oregon. "The talks were amazing, and the fellowships were simply the best."
He described this event as an "incredible experience" and encourages others of all ages to consider attending the camp.
"I would recommend it for anyone, especially the youth, who are interested in learning more about the liturgy," said Bentz, before summing up the spiritual enhancement of camp by saying "Pray for your future spouse everyday. And don't do anything with your boyfriend or girlfriend that you wouldn't want done to your future spouse. Show some respect!"
Campers also participated in a Seder Meal to underscore the relationship between the Jewish Passover and the Catholic Mass. Following the meal was a relay, which quickly became a water balloon fight to ward off the humid summer heat.
Their final night ended with an array of German dancing, as well as the notorious Chicken Dance. Before their departure on Sunday, the youth put to use their enhanced skills to create a liturgy.