I made it through camp with most of my dignity and sanity in place (although many people made fun of my man scarf). It was a really great weekend and I know that the youth and leaders who went had a really great time. They especially enjoyed the underground church night game that we did.

I also learned an important lesson: Don’t do too much! It was exhausting being both the worship leader and the youth pastor to my group. I don’t think I was able to give enough attention to either role and so both roles suffered. The worship was rushed, the sound was not great (lots of feedback), and we didn’t get a chance to practice the whole weekend. It wasn’t bad, but it also wasn’t great.

I also didn’t get to fully engage with all of the youth because I was being stretched in too many directions. I was late to the small group time and always running around. I can’t do everything - and I especially can’t do everything well.

I think pastors often think they are invincible and can handle anything and everything that comes their way. We can’t. We need boundaries and balance. The weekend was a lot of fun and I can’t wait for next year. Let’s just hope they get a different band to lead the worship.