Equine cupcakes

I have always loved Mission House. I have been drawn to it not just for its elegance and historical presence, but also for the energy and. . .well. . mission that run through the place in waves, even on a quiet day. But for one week of the year, I find it utterly irresistible. On the face of it, the lovely and dignified structure becomes just plain FUN, whether island paradise or home to bluegrass Thoroughbred horses. My particular favorite aspects of the decor this year were the unmistakable sweetness of a chapel transformed into a stable, and the soft plush horses grazing in the turf fields of antique Bishop's chairs in the entry hall.

As always, though, such delights are only a foil to what is really going on. What makes this week so irresistible is the intersection of faith with real life.

I got there in time to admire spectacular equine cupcakes being devoured by all children--even the tall ones. This was in the midst of jumping rope, watching bugs and just hanging out. Easy and joyful conversations erupted out of small groups of teachers and students. When the Paddock Master (looking eerily like the Ringmaster at the Cathedral Domain, I must add,) blew the whistle, the energy shifted into different small groups with no confusion. Soon everyone was engaged in some sort of reading activity. The energy was quieter, but not diminished.

I found myself being so grateful that this particular Reading Camp had overcome many challenges in order to actually occur. Once again, I had found what I find so compelling about this particular week at Mission House. As I drove away smiling, I knew that what I had really observed in the midst of this overtly secular Jockey Club had been the "love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord." (Rom. 8:39)

-Rev. Janey Wilson is on the Reading Camp Steering Committee and is the Reading Camp Chaplain