BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (BP)–About 100 middle and high school students from Metro Church of Garland, Texas, were traveling to a Student Life camp at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, La., when one of the two chartered buses carrying them crashed on Interstate 20 east of Dallas June 24.
A Student Life spokesperson said that the camp, which expected 1,900 other teens this week, will continue as scheduled.
“We’re extremely saddened by what has happened. It has been a shock to us, and we’re doing all we can to support the people involved,” said Lauren Woodlief, marketing director for Student Life camp. “Our camp staff is counseling and praying with students [at the camp] in response to the crash.”
Campers were assembled during an afternoon meeting on June 24 and were told of the accident involving the Metro Church students. Students prayed in groups and corporately for the victims and their families.
Student Life officials said counselors were on-hand to minister individually with campers. Despite the somber tone, the camp will continue at La. Tech.
Student Life camps are held throughout the summer at various locations in Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. Students experience a week of worship with prominent worship leaders such as Chris Tomlin and Dave Hunt and preaching by speakers such as Louie Giglio, Gregg Matte and David Nasser. Participants also enjoy intense Bible study and fellowship with other students.
This year’s theme is “Before and After,” emphasizing the life and work of Jesus, a figure who changed the dating of history and continues to change lives on a personal level. Bible studies focus on exploring the character of Jesus as the ultimate prophet, ultimate priest and ultimate king, according to the Student Life website, www.studentlife.net.
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