Name: Valerie Stary

Hello... I hope this message finds each one who reads it enjoying the sweet love of Jesus in secure assurance of salvation.... He loves you and sacrificed Himself to put the exclamation point on that fact. :) *John 3:16*

My name is Valerie Stary and I would like to share a little bit about my time at Camp Barakel if I may. What a precious gift God gave all of us in this beautiful place we call home for a few days whenever possible. I have gone to Camp Barakel in one facet or another for more than 25 years now, and I cherish each memory I've taken home from each visit.

I have so many great memories I could share, I'm not sure where to go with this, but...

I have to say the teaching at Camp Barakel is always true to God's Word - you can be confident of that - God always spoke to my heart in the many chapel services I attended over the years, and the worship music is inspiring to say the least. I remember singing the wonderful songs they picked for us campers for all I was worth and loving the sound of the many voices around me joining in to praise God. Took my breath away at times.

I recall a time when I was working in the kitchen on the West Side one weekend when I was a bit older, and making my way to the chapel service at the Men's Retreat they were having. I was greeted by a chorus of men's voices that truly made my heart swell in my chest and brought tears to my eyes. It was beautiful to hear so many men praising God with their voices in song. Wow! I'll never forget it.

The power of God is so evident at Camp Barakel - from the chapel services, to the serene beauty of Shear Lake, to the quiet trails through the forest surrounding it, to the many lives changed and made better for having spent time there (the stories at the Firebowls at the end of the week of camp were a testament to that).... I can't say enough about the opportunities to praise God and rest in His love that are afforded at Camp Barakel.

The staff is amazing as well. It's really refreshing to go there and meet people that love God and want to serve Him. God bless each one by the bucket-full! I pray that Camp Barakel and the "dear ones" (to quote Uncle Johnny) who make it possible are able to share Jesus with countless generations to come.

Thank you for letting me share.


Valerie