An Island, the Gospel of Mark, and 360 College Students

InterVarsity chapters often organize retreats to deepen students’ faith and community bonds. One such event, Chapter Camp, took place on Catalina Island, hosting 360 students and staff from 12 schools across the Rocky Mountain Region. This was the largest group ever to attend Campus By the Sea, requiring special arrangements. The camp featured minimal electricity and no internet, creating a focused environment for spiritual reflection.

Each day began with an hour of personal time with God, with some students hiking to a cross on a hill or listening to waves on the beach. These moments allowed students to experience God’s presence in the island’s natural beauty. Morning activities included physical exercise and discussions centered on Scripture passages, preparing students for in-depth studies.

A key feature of the camp was the study of the Gospel of Mark. First-time attendees participated in “Mark 1,” exploring who Jesus is in the first half of the gospel. The following year, they would complete the study in “Mark 2.” This tradition, dating back to the 1950s, emphasizes deep engagement with Scripture through communal discussions and observation.

Free time after lunch allowed students to rest or enjoy outdoor activities together. Evenings featured beach worship, with each campus chapter leading praise. The camp concluded with 29 students being baptized, professing their faith in Jesus.

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