From an idea and a Canadian covered wagon to a living tradition

In 2014, the Friedensau campsite working group was given a special opportunity: a week-long trip to the USA – with the aim of getting to know campsite models and so-called ‘summer camps’. This was an intensive, inspiring week full of new impressions, valuable discussions and encounters with committed local people.
We were particularly impressed by our visit to Camp Au Sable – a huge site run by our free church in Michigan, where summer camps for hundreds of children and young people are organised every year. In conversation with those responsible on site, we learnt that, in addition to the camps that take place there, the extensive grounds with forests, a lake, numerous leisure attractions and various overnight accommodation options are supported by former summer camp participants - not only financially, but also by actively helping out. This idea of ‘returning helpers’ fascinated us!

We dared to organise our first WorkCamp
Although our campsite in Friedensau is not comparable to the dimensions of an American summer camp, it became clear that there is always something to do here too. New ideas are waiting to be realised, and some existing ones need maintenance and repair. What is often lacking is not only the financial means - but above all helping and skilful hands.

We also had building instructions and original components for a Canadian covered wagon in which eight people can spend the night. This was to be another special overnight accommodation option on our campsite. However, the wooden body had to be made from scratch – by hand, with skill and passion. So we had a bigger project, we had the material - and so the idea became reality: we ventured into our first WorkCamp.

‘Everything has to start small’ – this also applied here
Three participants signed up for a week. Three highly motivated people who had always cared about the campsite, who wanted to lend a hand, who took the time and pursued a common goal: to build the first covered wagon for the Friedensau campsite.
Another special chapter began with the new roof for our arena. The initial plan was to reuse the old benches. Unfortunately, this was not possible. However, we lacked secure funding for new benches. So the initiative www.kauf-ne-bank.de was born. In a relatively short time, numerous supporters were able to cover the pure material costs – but the construction of the benches themselves remained a challenge. Over the course of more than four WorkCamps, dedicated teams worked to build the many new benches – a truly mammoth project that required not only sweat, but also a great deal of team spirit and perseverance.

Soon afterwards, the eco-house on the site needed our attention: the exterior façade was getting on in years. Thanks to a great cooperation with the company that had already supported the construction of the eco-house in 1990, the paints were sponsored – and so the renovation could be successfully implemented with the WorkCampers.

Many important projects have been realised
There have also been many other, no less important projects in recent years: several log cabins have been re-roofed, our green spaces have been intensively maintained, countless repairs have been carried out - all as part of the WorkCamps, all with voluntary commitment and loving dedication.
Today - in 2025 – we look back with gratitude on ten years of WorkCamps. What once started small has developed into a firm, lively tradition. Today, between 15 and 25 people come together twice a year to make a difference and lend a hand.
In the evenings, when our legs are tired and our arms are heavy, we often gather around the campfire. Then we talk about God and the world – quite literally. Over the years, real friendships have developed and we look forward to seeing each other again at the next WorkCamp. On the Sabbath, we attend church services, spend the afternoon on a lovely excursion in the surrounding area and indulge in culinary delights in the evening. And often – yes, very often – the plans for the next WorkCamp are already being made right then.

Join in and spread the word – expressly encouraged
Whether young or old - there is room for everyone at the WorkCamp: craftspeople with experience, young people with a love of learning, plant lovers, people with a big heart for the Friedensau campsite. We are well aware of the blessing we have experienced in recent years thanks to the support of the ‘Anpackerinnen und Anpacker’. Through this commitment, we are continuing to build a place that gives young people space to grow, learn and discover and enables encounters between all generations. The invitation is already open: The next WorkCamp will take place from 7 to 14 September 2025.
Sabine Schorcht, campsite manager in Friedensau since 1998

All Photos: FAU | Campsite Friedensau