Dara Stull
To Dara Stull, her job as a camp counselor offers the perfect blend of work and play.
Since joining the staff at Imago Dei Village, an ELCA outdoor ministry program, as assistant program director, she still feels a bit awestruck at her good fortune.
“Working here allows me to do something fulfilling but that’s still play,” says Dara.
“When I need a break, I head outside! I get to meet people of all ages and worship with them. But mostly, I’m passionate about working here and feel called to be here. How wonderful to spend time with nature and the people God created!”
As a child, Dara enjoyed her summers at Imago Dei Village, part of the ELCA Crossways Camps in Wisconsin, and returned for summer jobs during college.
After graduating from Luther College, she found that outdoor ministry proposed a rewarding answer to a challenging question. How would she be able to live out her faith on a daily basis and continue to grow as a Christian and a Lutheran?
Dara remembers, “This past summer I woke up every morning to the most radiant orange sunrise shining in my window. The sunshine was a daily reminder of God’s light shining down on me and showing me the way.”
Seminary may now be in her future, somewhat to Dara’s surprise. “I spent four years of college running from my call,” Dara says with a smile. But a mission trip to South Africa with Crossways sparked an idea for a unique ministry.
“I’ve seen firsthand the impact a Christian camp can have on kids and how camp can become a grounding place for many who are wandering in their faith,” says Dara.
“Camp is so American. I’d love to bring the concept to South Africa or another part of the world and make it work within the cultural context.”
“I really believe that God is calling me to change the lives of others,” Dara says firmly. “It doesn’t matter that I’m young. God is using my youthfulness to help me do great things.”
And when in doubt, Dara does what her mother and grandmother taught her to do: “Pray!”
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