Exploring God’s World: Legacy Christian Seventh Graders at Outdoor Education

Every fall, Legacy Christian School’s seventh graders look forward to one of the most memorable experiences of their school year: three days at Camp Roger for Outdoor Education. This program has been a cherished tradition since 1978, blending hands-on learning, faith formation, and community building in the beauty of God’s creation.

At Camp Roger, students trade their classrooms for the forest, lakes, and open skies. Days are filled with opportunities to explore, learn, and grow. They study ecosystems in Land and Water Ecology, test water quality, identify plants and animals, and take part in hands-on science projects. Students also navigate the woods using GPS in geocaching adventures, practice teamwork on the challenge course, or enjoy classic camp activities like archery, fishing canoeing, and cordcraft. One student said, “My favorite class of the many was water ecology. I was with Mr. Faber for this class and we did things like measuring the amounts of different things in the water. I found the amount of nitrogen in the water, the amount on the surface of the lake and the bottom.”

Purpose and Spiritual Growth

These three days are designed to do more than teach science. They invite students to live out the school’s throughlines as Creation Enjoyers, Community Builders, and Order Discoverers. Rooted in Genesis 1:28, the program encourages students to care for God’s creation by observing and understanding the intricate workings of the natural world. Students have moments of personal reflection during the devotional hikes, journaling, praying, or simply enjoying the stillness of the woods. One student reflected, “in Outdoor Ed, I heard God speaking to me through the devotional hike. It was fun to go and write in the peaceful woods. It was nice to have a time just to talk to God and sit in the peace in quiet where no one was there to interrupt your train of thought. It was probably my favorite part. I also really enjoyed the worship, singing brings me joy, so I like worshiping God through my singing.”

Building Community

Outdoor Education is also a time for students to grow as part of the South Suburban Christian community. Students from Legacy, Byron Center, Dutton, and Moline Christian Schools share cabins, classes, and meals, forming friendships that often last beyond the trip. By eating, learning, and playing together, students experience firsthand the joy of Christian community.

Evenings at camp are filled with music, worship, and reflection. Students enjoy group games, variety shows, and singing around the campfire. On Wednesday night, a praise band of South Christian High School juniors and seniors leads worship, and the energy and joy of hundreds of voices coming together is unforgettable. 

The Impact on Students

Parents often notice the growth in students after Outdoor Education. Many return with a stronger sense of curiosity, a deeper appreciation for creation, and a greater sense of community with their peers. They learn to problem-solve, work as part of a team, and reflect spiritually. 

Outdoor Education at Legacy Christian School is more than a field trip. It is an intentional program that fosters spiritual growth, academic curiosity, and meaningful connections. For three days, students see the world through the lens of God’s creation, develop friendships across schools, and create memories that last a lifetime. It is an experience that reminds students that learning, faith, and community belong together.