Our eighth grade students spent time at Camp Tejas this week hanging thousands—and we mean thousands—of Christmas lights! As they helped prepare the campgrounds for the annual Christmas at Tejas experience, students learned what it means to serve with their hands, put in the work, and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
Summit’s relationship with Camp Tejas began more than 20 years ago with a simple question: “Do you guys need some help?” That willingness to serve has grown into a longstanding partnership and a meaningful tradition for our students. Each year, our eighth graders help put up the Christmas lights, and our ninth graders return to take them down.
While hanging lights may seem like a simple task, it gives students an opportunity to practice perseverance, teamwork, and faithfulness. Their work helps prepare a welcoming place where families can gather, celebrate Christmas, and hear about the hope we have in Jesus.
For some students, the enthusiasm is already following them home. Several eighth grade boys became so passionate about lighting the trees that they are asking whether they can bring a little of that Christmas spirit to Summit this holiday season!
That desire to keep serving is part of what our Impact Education program seeks to cultivate. Through opportunities like this, students learn to notice a need, offer their help, and use their time and abilities to bless others. Sometimes, a tradition that lasts for decades begins with one simple question: “Do you need some help?”
