Changing Lives at 13,000 Feet
Almost every summer for more than 18 years, Navigator Bob Eschmann has been bringing groups of high school students from the urban surroundings of Chicago to the wilderness of Colorado to participate in a life-changing outdoor experience at Eagle Lake Camp.
“Several years ago I realized I could share my love of camping and being outdoors with the guys I minister to,” Bob says. “What better way to get them away from the everyday pressures of life and focus their attention on Jesus than by being in the midst of God’s creation?”
Most of these young men have never been outside Illinois, let alone in the mountains. Their camp experience was designed to challenge them mentally, physically, and spiritually. Backpacking at an elevation of 13,600 feet served to stretch them physically, and time spent studying the Scriptures helped them grow spiritually. Most of the young men are not churchgoers and Bob’s highest goal is to introduce them to Jesus.
Here are a few of the young men’s comments:
“I thank you for letting us be a part of your camp. It was hard and we were not used to climbing, but it was fun. I really got the most out of it. Above the food and fun, I thank you the most for the spiritual help you gave to us. Let the Glory be to God.” —AlexThese comments reveal the impact of the young men’s week at Eagle Lake. They did, indeed, encounter God. As one of the teens, Ashton, said, “I had a great time at the camp. I met new people and learned new things. Because of Eagle Lake I have gotten closer to God. I am more confident in myself and in the face of God. You have taught me hard work and dedication. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“My time spent at Eagle Lake was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I will remember my trip to Eagle Lake for the rest of my life.”—Eric
“I learned a lot this week about many different things. I learned how to live in the woods and what to do when hiking up mountains. I learned many things about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I was touched by the words of a Navigator and I thank you for that.” –Jamion
“The hard physical demands helped make my mind and will power stronger. I am thankful for this opportunity to escape everyday life, and I hope you continue to extend this opportunity to other young people.”—Daniel
“Thank you for making this possible. I did many things for the first time like sleeping outside, cooking outside, and being in the woods. The best thing was the zip line. It was scary at first but I got through it by the grace of God!”—Torian
“Even though you did not know us at all, you helped us come all the way from Chicago to Colorado. This trip meant a lot to me. It made me realize that there are a lot of good people, people that care about others.”—Alan
“Thank you for providing me the opportunity to spend time in God’s creation and for bringing me to a better understanding of what a relationship with Jesus truly means.”—Mario
Much of the cost of sending these urban high schoolers to camp is provided by donors to Eagle Lake’s “Campership” program. If you would like to learn more about Eagle Lake and how you can become involved go to www.eaglelake.org.
