What do you think of parents sending their kids to bible camp?

Question

Are they just giving their children an education in the bible and teaching them morality?

Or is it just indoctrination before they have a chance to make a decision for themselves?

Kenneth G,

How exactly did I "phrase the question" as anti christian? It's just a basic question.

Answer 1

Watch 'Jesus Camp'.

It's probably one of the most strange and scary documentaries I have ever seen.

;)

Answer 2

It is indoctrination, but parents have the right to do that. There are also camps for children from atheist and Pagan families. (I am very careful to use that term, instead of "atheist children" or "Christian children.") One of the wonderful things about the US is that we can (usually) raise our kids in any belief system we like. When they're older, they'll get to see other things, but they need a foundation, even if others think it's seriously flawed.

Answer 3

I think it is up to the parents. And, no one can speak for them as to why they send their children. Raising your children up with your beliefs that your household shares is not indoctrination. Whether you openly tell your children what you believe or not, they watch you and they know and are influenced by your beliefs or non beliefs. I am a Christian. . .I go to church. . .I take my children to church, we study the Bible and we pray. . .because that is what I feel is the right way to live and as long as my children are in my house they will do the same. I expect that when they get older they will search for their own truths and their own relationship with the Lord just as I did, but I sincerely hope with all my heart that the way I raised them will stay close to their heart and that they will always love the Lord.

Answer 4

Surely it is up to parents to raise their children as they see fit. Of course, they will teach their children the truth, as they know it.
Since when has teaching one's offspring our own code of ethics and morality a bad thing? Every parent, whether they mean to or not "indoctrinate" their children.
We teach them good eating habits, good hygiene, good study habits...all of these are "indoctrination", and also responsible parenting.
That this question is even being asked frightens me. We've been losing our freedom of religion slowly but surely for the past several decades. How long before we are told that we cannot teach our kids our Christianity, even at home?
How long before teaching our children our religion becomes another form of child abuse?

Answer 5

I suppose it really depends. I’m, as I’m sure you’ve guessed, decidedly NOT Christian, but I was raised Southern Baptist, and went to Bible camp, and Christian retreats, and wasn’t scarred for life by it. It just ended up not being the path for me. I would send my kids to Pagan camp (when I have kids of course) I think it’s a way of giving your kids a basis for comparison. Give them a belief system to hold to while they’re young, then when they are old enough, they can make their own decision as to which faith to follow, or not follow as they will. It does give them a starting point (as long as the camp isn’t to “Grrr! Death to the infidels, burn the witch!”)

Answer 6

I have 2 small children, ages 3 & 4. I take them both to church on Sundays, and I also talk with them about God. I think it's a good thing. At the moment my children want to go. And as long as they keep that mind set, I will continue to take them. When they are older, I will let them decide for themselves.

Answer 7

Hi Kermie,
From what I have seen, most of the BIBLE Camps are really not heavy on indoctrination techniques but there are times when you might want to sign up to chaparone the camp just to check it out. I have had my children attend a Church Camp from time-to-time and they have met and exchanged addresses with others and corresponded with them and learned some great lessons from their experiences also. I never did push the issue but they were welcome to go if they wanted to. Have a great week.
PS... It is good to see you again.
Thanks,
Eds


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Answer 8

Intensified brainwashing. Bible 24/7

Answer 9

The parents? Tired and in need of a break. Besides, if they are Christian, isn't it reasonable that they would send their kids to bible camp instead of Buddhist or Muslim camp?

Answer 10

It depends upon what Bible camp it is. My church owns many camps. The kids go to have fun together, swim, ride horses, walk, enjoy nature. There is prayer and talk of beliefs, but it is not the consuming focus.

There are many camps ran by other churches that I would never let my children attend.

The Ol' Hippie Jesus Freak
Grace and Peace
Peg

Answer 11

Obviously it depends on the bible camp.

If they are leaving the crazy world behind and spending time getting back to nature, while learning about what the bible says, then I don't have any problem with it.

If they are being force fed someone elses fears and intolerance, then I do have a problem.

It is difficult, if not downright impossible to actually make a decision for yourself if you have been taught to believe out of fear.

I definitely consider it a form of child abuse.