Serving on summer staff is more than a summer job; it’s a ministry. Each day you’ll have the opportunity to live out your faith, share God’s love in meaningful ways, and be part of transforming lives. Along the way, you’ll also grow spiritually, build lasting friendships, and discover how God can work through you. Here are 5 reasons why serving on summer staff is such a powerful and life-changing ministry opportunity.
#1: Spiritual Development
In the Gospel, Jesus provides a model of servant leadership. John 13 says, “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power,” and the first thing that Jesus did with this power was kneel down and wash his disciples’ feet. In this simple act, Jesus shows us the care with which we should serve others. Working at Pilgrim Pines is a commitment to a summer of service, following Jesus’ example. In doing so, you’ll grow closer to Him as you pour out His love and experience that love in return. Participate in staff Bible studies and daily worship, and maybe even teach a faith-based classroom during the week. In helping lead others to Christ, we’re certain you’ll grow closer to Him.
#2: Personal Development
Mayflower Family Camp and Camp Squanto rely on staff accountability. If you’re scheduled for a shift on the grill at the Snack Shack or to lead an experiential during Junior High, the rest of your summer staff team is counting on you to be there. Working at camp will help you grow in responsibility, teamwork, creativity, efficiency, and more. Learn how to manage your schedule and free time, and experience independence in a safe, fun, and beautiful environment. Experience personal growth in God’s creation, surrounded by peers.
#3: Lifelong Memories
You’ll never forget the time you spend on staff here at Pilgrim Pines. Years from now, when you come back to camp and visit, you’ll still be approached by campers who were in your classroom or who you helped to pass the swim test. There are so many impactful, memorable moments that take place each summer, from silly activities like costume mini golf during staff training to meaningful traditions like singing the benediction to campers at the end of the week. The joy and fulfillment that you experience here will stay with you long after your summer is over.
#4: Lifelong Friendships
Among your fellow staff members, you’ll make friendships that will stand the test of time. Staff bonding activities and group formation exercises are dispersed throughout the summer, and there is no bond like the one born of working hard in the summer heat to lead families closer to God. You’ll get to know your summer staff peers as roommates, coworkers, and friends, and go from guarding the waterfront together to spending your day off in town together. Pilgrim Pines is a place full of young adults who desire to serve God, serve others, and have fun, and these common priorities make for great friendships. There have been countless instances where summer staff co-workers have gone on to be bridesmaids and groomsmen in each other’s weddings years later!
#5: Valuable Professional Experience
Working on summer staff, you’ll learn professionalism, time management, customer service, hospitality, conflict management, and more. These skills will benefit you in future jobs, and learning to stay focused and productive in a busy summer camp environment is a strength that will stay with you for years to come. As you continue to return to camp and work your way up to a leadership position, you’ll learn how to coordinate schedules, lead through service, public speaking, and more. Additionally, we’re always happy to work with your school to coordinate class or internship credit if you’re eligible!