By: Richelle Latona, Senior Director of Development
At Hume Lake in the high school Ponderosa camp, recreation isn’t just about wild games and epic competitions—it’s about preparing hearts for the gospel. I had the chance to interview this summer’s Ponderosa Recreation Leads, Isaac and Abbey, to hear how God is working through the high-energy world of rec.
Q: How would you describe the role of recreation at Hume—and specifically at Ponderosa—in the overall ministry and gospel experience of camp?
Isaac & Abbey: We say it all the time, but it truly is about creating an environment for students to uncross their arms. In a recreation role, it’s crucial to implement fairness, safety, and most importantly—fun! Through rec, we hope to lead students into a time where they can relax, have fun, be themselves, and connect with others. That has often paved the way for more real and vulnerable conversations back at the cabin. Our job in recreation is simply to help set the stage for the gospel to land deeply.
Q: What’s been the most challenging part of leading rec this summer, and how have you seen God show up in the middle of it?
The most challenging part has honestly been the weight of prep, responsibility, and pressure that comes with this job. But the Lord has met us in every moment—from fixing games to managing stress. He’s been so present as we’ve sought to steward this role well and make every part of recreation meaningful and fun.
Q: Are there any campers or counselors whose stories have shown the impact of what God is doing at Hume this summer?
Recreation can feel isolating sometimes because it’s such a unique role. But counselors have come up to us with kind and encouraging words—saying they love the games this year and what we’re doing to make camp, camp. That encouragement has helped fuel us and reminded us that this really is gospel work.
Q: What’s something most people might not realize about what goes into running rec at Ponderosa?
There’s a lot of responsibility—and a lot of eyes on you! Some might think that’s fun, but it can also come with judgment or criticism. We’ve learned how important it is to lean on the Lord and find our identity in Him. That’s what helps us carry this responsibility with humility.
Q: How can our ministry partners be praying for you and the recreation team as the summer continues?
Please pray that we’d lead well and always keep Jesus and the gospel at the center. Pray for unity, for strength to finish the summer strong, and for us to find pockets of rest and celebration along the way.