cell phone policy

Green Lake Lutheran Ministries believes that there is incredible value in the Bible camp experience. For over 80 years, ministry has been happening on our three sites that are rich with beautiful lakes, woods, worship spaces, places of sabbath, and opportunity to learn and grow in faith. The impact that camp makes on a person is life-long, and continues to be relevant even as the world around us changes.  

In recent years, our lives have rapidly become accustomed to technology of various types. While much of this technology has been beneficial in one way or another, we believe that there is a time and place to take a break from constant screen access. Camp is one of those places! Consider the benefits of taking a “screen sabbath.” How could you hear God’s voice more when you’re free to just “be?” While at camp, you get to do just that. Whether hiking through the woods, singing together in worship, talking to each other during a meal, sitting and enjoying a sunset together, or joyfully playing in the lake, uninterrupted faith-filled time together is core to our mission.   

When it comes to kids at camp, there are so many reasons that screens, especially cell phones, are not allowed at camp. Research shows that one of the reasons kids learn and grow so much during a week at summer camp is because they are away from home. This doesn’t mean that home is bad, it just means that kids have to step out of their comfort zone a bit. They have to problem solve, forge new relationships, remember to brush their teeth, and learn to trust new people. What a gift we can give our kids when we allow them the freedom to spread their wings, especially in a faith-filled, safe and supportive environment!  

The bottom line is that cell phones are a major distraction from many of the things that make camp impactful. Simply having a phone near is a pretty irresistible temptation for most kids. Escaping into a game, checking in on friends at home, potentially accessing inappropriate web content while away from home... there are countless ways that phones pull kids away from being truly present while at camp.  

Parents, we ask for your support in this. We do not allow phones or screens of any kind at camp. Before coming to camp, we ask that you collect these devices from the camper and have a conversation about our no electronics policy. Please do not “sneak” a device into your child’s bag. If phones or other electronics are discovered at camp, we will safely store them until the end of the week. Camp is not liable for any electronic devices broken or stolen while at camp. 

For your peace of mind, please know that GLLM prides itself on having highly trained staff and strong safety procedures in place. In the event that an emergency arises or we feel you need to be contacted for any reason, we will do so! We know that it is hard to be disconnected for the week, but the benefits your child will gain are worth it! 

If you have questions or want further clarification about this policy, please contact us at 320-796-2181.