Each day at I AM ART Camp begins with one of our favorite traditions—Large Group! It’s a time when everyone comes together to play energetic games, sing songs, move, laugh, and prepare their hearts for the day ahead. More than just a fun start to the morning, Large Group builds community, introduces the daily theme, and creates space for campers of all ages to connect, participate, and grow together.
For our I AM ART CAMP Large Group leader, Jorge Pablo, serving at Opal House was one of the highlights of the week. Although he arrived feeling tired after working hard, the campers quickly renewed his energy. Reflecting on the experience, Jorge Pablo shared, “Seeing the kids recognize me, run to hug me, and get excited to play made it all worth it.” Throughout the week, he loved leading games and watching campers engage with enthusiasm and joy. He was especially encouraged to see their confidence grow during Bible discussions and to hear how well they remembered the Scripture verses they had learned. As the week came to a close, Jorge Pablo expressed his gratitude for the Athentikos community, saying, “I’m so grateful to be part of the Athentikos family, and I can’t wait to come back next year.”
Moments like these remind us that Large Group is about more than games and songs—it’s about creating a welcoming space where campers feel seen, valued, and excited to learn together.
Each day the students also learned about the story of Ruth—not as a distant historical account, but as though Ruth herself were telling it. Through first-person storytelling, Scripture, and reflection, participants journey with a young woman who experienced loss, uncertainty, courage, and ultimately the redeeming faithfulness of God. As the week unfolds, Ruth’s story intertwines with the five I AM ART themes, inviting each participant to discover that God’s work of restoration is still unfolding today.
This summer, Guatemalan volunteer Ivette Alvarado led these daily Bible Teaching sessions at both Oasis Residential Home and Opal House School. But somewhere between telling Ruth’s story and watching camp unfold, she realized she wasn’t simply teaching Scripture. Read More of Ivette’s reflections on teaching here.
Read the Full Impact Report for Opal House I AM ART camp here.
Read the Full Impact Report for Oasis I AM ART camp here.
