Students learn and pray during camp week

It has been said that knowledge gained through experience is superior to “bookish” knowledge.

Yorkton Grade 7 Catholic school students were joined by Melville’s St. Henry’s Sr. School this year for the 44th Annual AMPO camping trip at St. Michael’s Bible Camp at Lake Madge.

During the week-long outing, students learn canoeing, fire-building, archery, hiking, first aid and more.

Of course, being a Catholic Schools endeavour, there is a religious element to it as well.

“They are immersed in God’s creation and develop a sincere appreciation for their Catholic faith,” said Gary Forgeron, a Grade 7 teacher from St. Michael’s School.

The program actually started to fulfill physical education requirements at a time when many Catholic schools did not have gymnasiums. It now stands on its own, run by volunteers and supported financially by area organizations and businesses.

“AMPO has blossomed into an incredible program, rich with tradition and experience,” Forgeron said. “We would like to thank all those that helped to shape the lives of our students.

“A special thanks to those businesses and organizations that have donated either money or equipment to our program this year, especially: Christ the Teacher Catholic School Division, Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood, Knights of Columbus #2031, Knights of Columbus #5182, Catholic Women’s League, Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League, SOEEA, SaskLotteries, Discovery Motorsports and St Michael’s Camp.”