Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Camp Kateri Tekakwitha, a Catholic summer camp near McCool Junction, has opened registration for its upcoming season. The camp was established by the Diocese of Lincoln in 1999 to provide opportunities for young people to develop leadership skills, character, and spirituality amidst nature's tranquility. Named after Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, who was beatified in 1980 and canonized in 2012, the camp held its first SKY Camp for junior high youth in the summer of 2001.

This year's events will be spearheaded by new program director Jacob Brouillette. A graduate of St. Cecilia High School in Hastings and soon-to-be graduate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a major in construction management and minors in business and entrepreneurship, Brouillette is no stranger to Camp Kateri. He first attended as a fifth-grader and continued to participate yearly until high school, serving as a counselor during his high school years.

Brouillette also spent two summers working at Camp Wojtyla – named for St. John Paul II, Karol Wojtyla – in Colorado. He believes this experience will help him bring fresh perspectives to Camp Kateri.

"Camp Kateri offers something unique and amazing for every student in the diocese to experience," said Brouillette. "Your children are able to get away from the business and noise of the world of screens, activities, and expectations."

He added that Camp Kateri provides an opportunity for children to experience authentic joy through play, community competition, and deeper conversations about faith.

Brouillette revealed that this year's staff is large and enthusiastic about the upcoming summer season. Some old traditions like the "Tekakwitha Games" for junior high ages will be revived while introducing new experiences such as an alumni and family camp scheduled for July 1-2.

Brouillette expressed his excitement about returning to Camp Kateri and his hopes of making it a life-changing experience for campers. He aims to enhance the ways the camp teaches youth about God's love through nature's beauty and adventure.

The camp's executive director, Father Harlan Waskowiak, ensures that all staff and counselors are adequately trained before leading campers in activities, ensuring a safe, formative, and fulfilling experience for everyone.

Brouillette also noted that high school students are still welcome to sign up as counselors for this summer.

For more information on registration and upcoming events, visit the newly designed Camp Kateri website at campkateri.org.