On any given Thursday afternoon during the summer, if you drive into Camp towards the big tent you can hear the music and elation flowing from Special Friends campers, volunteers, and staff. The band is playing, drums are hit, tambourines and maracas are shaken, air guitars are strummed, and campers and staff alike are dancing and singing with joy.

The moment the music begins to play, the dynamic changes, everyone seems to understand the common language of music, and the connection between campers and staff feels effortless.

Ricco and Sparkles (Rick and Margaret Spears), long time staff and supporters of Special Friends Camps, join Jon Dalgarn and the Voices of the Village, a program of Village Community Services, to lead this time of music each week. It is a true gift that heals, connects, and reaches the campers in a powerful way.

Henry (name has been changed to protect camper’s identity) a Special Friends Camper for over 10 years becomes an enthusiastic drummer during this time. He plays the drums with passion and focus, each week giving the performance of a lifetime. While he is normally not very vocal, the music brings out his voice. Other campers join in as well, all singing and playing with happiness and respect for one another, encouraging each other’s performances.

Seeing this first hand is a blessing beyond measure. God so graciously gifts each one of us with the ability to praise Him. What if we take our cue from our Special Friends campers and worship with unashamed abandon?

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!” -Psalm 100:1-2

-Faith Oates