The Diocese of Wichita has acquired a significant property in Reno County now known as the Fr. Emil J. Kapaun Family & Youth Camp. Spanning 150 acres, Camp Kapaun is a dedicated space for fostering faith through youth camps and retreats. Originally held at a rented location, the diocese's signature camp, Camp Totus Tuus, faced increasing demand for more space. “We could only host 84 campers per week, and that just wasn’t enough space for us anymore,” said Anthony Keiser, diocesan director of faith formation. In 2022, the opportunity arose when Camp Kanza went on sale. The Diocese seized this chance to purchase the site, renamed it in honor of Fr. Emil J. Kapaun, and began fulfilling a long-standing vision.

The camp's name pays homage to Fr. Emil J. Kapaun, a diocesan priest and U.S. Army chaplain who died in a prisoner-of-war camp during the Korean War and was recently declared venerable. Bishop Carl Kemme shared his thoughts, stating, “Fr. Kapaun, as we know, grew up in Pilsen, in a great rural part of our diocese. A son of a farmer, he knew hard work and good fun. Back then, he would have enjoyed much of his free time outdoors.” Bishop Kemme expressed his confidence that Fr. Kapaun’s virtues will inspire Catholic youth today.

Camp Kapaun now allows the diocese to accommodate up to 900 campers each summer, addressing the increasing need. Part of the $50 million One Family, Fully Alive in Christ! Campaign funded this acquisition, with $8 million designated for camp-related expenses such as acquiring and renovating facilities and constructing more cabins. The planned expansion aims to enable hosting approximately 1,750 campers during a summer season, according to Keiser.

The camp has become integral to strengthening and inspiring youth within the diocese. Keiser noted the transformative effect, “Camp is a place where souls are won over to Christ. The parish is a place where souls are built up to learn about him more deeply.” He emphasized the camp’s role in nurturing potential future religious leaders.

Beyond the current campaign, future developments at Camp Kapaun include constructing a new chapel and recreation building. Fr. Drew Hoffman, a former camper, credits his camp experience with deepening his faith and influencing his decision to pursue priesthood. Meanwhile, community members like Erin Dresher Dowell have witnessed the camp's impact firsthand as their children grew in faith.

Though initially skeptical, parents Stacia and Jeff Wetta noticed a positive change in their son after his camp experience. Stacia noted, “Ethan was not on board with going to camp…but he had the best week of his summer! He loved every minute of it – it was such a great experience for him.” This illustrates Camp Kapaun's role as a nurturing environment for youth.

Fr. Hoffman speaks to the broader significance of the camp amidst societal shifts, cautioning that “if we don’t set up a path to move in another direction, we will get swept away." Emphasizing such directional guidance, Camp Kapaun serves as more than just a summer retreat site; it is envisioned as a powerful formation tool aimed at nurturing disciples and enriching the Catholic community. Interested individuals can learn more about the campaign and support opportunities by visiting OneFamilyFullyAlive.org.