Jose J. Matos Auffant, Executive Director of Tecaboca Retreat Center, TX, sent us this update.
The camp counselor walks ahead of the group to lead the way upstream. Some campers stare attentively at crickets and butterflies, while others are trying to spot one or two minnows in the clear water stream at their side. While explaining some differences between closely related insects, birds fly over, and distant singing reminds everyone that they are in God’s garden.
An integral part of summer camp at Tecaboca, discovery walks are an effective way for young people to experience nature from within, not riding a car or from the comfort of the balcony. Yes, there will be mosquitoes and the occasional grasshopper that will, well… hop as we all walk by… and yet, walking through fine trails and under lush canopies of intense green trees, the campers express their awe and admiration for God’s handiwork.
Once the campers spot an insect, flower, or even an animal along the way, they convey the message to the staff photographer, who in turn takes beautiful, detailed pictures. Images like these are shared in the parents’ social media group to give everyone a glimpse of what caught the attention of campers.
Converging science and faith along the way, group leaders carefully explain key details of the flora and fauna found while at the same time inviting each camper to reflect on what they are learning just as Mary did (Lk 2:40). Developing a curriculum for the Tecaboca discovery walks will greatly enhance this unique opportunity to experience nature in a safe environment. Day campers, as well as more experienced campers, appreciate the fun walks, and the conversations along the way, but more importantly, the sense of awe and admiration for Creation.
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