Tampa: Sensing Joy at Camp Mary Help

By Ms. Chioma Okoye, Communications Director, Mary Help of Christians Center

(Tampa, FL – July 17) – If you visit Camp Mary Help for the day, you will hear, see, and feel something special, something holy. You will hear campers shout chants they have created using different saint’s names. You will see counselors teach the motions to accompany the songs in Mass. Enthusiastic campers follow the motions (or movements) as they utilize what they have just learned. Most importantly, you’ll feel the joy and love present in the midst of it all.

As Catholic Christians and Salesians, we are called to live and serve joyfully. There is no better example than at Mass at Camp Mary Help! As our nation is in the middle of the National Eucharistic Revival, now more than ever, we confirm that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. This is certaintly true at Camp Mary Help. Beginning the day with Mass fuels our campers, counselors, and camp itself. Additionally, it enlivens our Salesian priests, who do a great job encouraging everyone to participate at Mass cheerfully and reverently.

Along with a jovial celebration of the Mass, there are lots of other activities that campers get to enjoy regularly. These include tubing, kayaking, swimming, dodgeball, volleyball, soccer, indoor games, animal care at the barn, and more! However, we know that this level of enjoyment cannot happen apart from the sustained joy that comes only from the Lord Himself and the presence of our Blessed Mother among us.

May the joy of Christ’s presence at Camp Mary Help continue to be seen, heard, and felt by all!