Four Congregations Collaborate  to bring “Dominican Faith Camp” to Life

SPRINGFIELD, IL June 4, 2007 – Four Dominican congregations are collaborating to bring “Dominican Faith Camp” to life in the Midwest. The Dominican Sisters of Columbus, Grand Rapids, Sinsinawa, and Springfield, are launching the inaugural season of the collaborative camp with two pilot events this summer. The first camp , "Camp Marywood," is scheduled for  June 10-12, 2007 at the Dominican motherhouse in Grand Rapids. The second event is July 15-17, 2007, at the motherhouse of the Springfield Dominicans in Springfield, Ill.

There will be plenty of traditional camp fun for active young women, along with time for service, and prayer and meals with the sisters, organizers say.

“This is the perfect camp experience for girls who are attuned to the importance of faith in their lives,” said Sister Lori Kirchman, OP, Springfield camp director. “We look forward to sharing our lives and the spirit of St. Dominic with the campers.”

 Junior High girls in Grand Rapids are affectionately calling this experience, the "Fun with Nuns Camp"! Girls who are entering or leaving sixth, seventh, or eighth grade in the fall are eligible to participate in either camp.

  Springfield registration information: A $20 registration fee includes all meals, snacks, materials, and overnight accommodations in a well-supervised, safe environment. Participants will also receive a t-shirt with the camp logo and a book of Catholic prayers for youth. Registration is limited to 20 girls and will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Permission from a parent or legal guardian is required. Request a registration form on line at www.SpringfieldOP.org or contact Sister Lori at 217.787.0481.

Grand Rapids registration information: A $40 registration fee includes all meals, snacks, materials, and overnight accommodations in a well-supervised, safe environment. Participants will receive a book of Catholic prayers for youth. Registration is limited to 20 girls and will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Permission from a parent or legal guardian is required. Registration deadline is May 31, 2007. Request registration materials from Sister Kathi Sleziak, OP at 616-643-0378 or ksleziak@grdominicans.org.