Based on Ephesians 3, this session reminds students that their creativity isn’t random—it’s a gift, given for a reason. We’ll focus on plot structure, pacing, and how to craft a satisfying and redemptive ending. Students who’ve been with us from the start will complete the final act of their short story, bringing their work to a meaningful close. This session equips young writers to finish strong, pointing readers back to the ultimate Author.
For This Reason
Drawing from John 15 and Ephesians 1, this session teaches that we are called to Kingdom work—doing all things with excellence so our gifts reflect the glory of God. Students will dive into character development, discovering how strong, well-crafted characters can drive a meaningful plot. For those attending all three sessions, this is where the middle of the story takes shape. It's a week that challenges students to write with purpose and to reflect Christ through their craft.
Called to Witness
Rooted in Daniel 3 and anchored by Matthew 10:22, this session helps students see how God uses fiery trials to refine and strengthen us for His glory. Through daily devotionals and creative exercises, students will explore how faith fuels perseverance while learning to brainstorm, outline, and craft the opening of a powerful story. They'll build the foundation of their plot and begin writing with clarity and confidence. This session sets the tone—spiritually and creatively—for the journey ahead.
Forged Amidst Fire
In just five days, your teen will grow as a writer, deepen their faith, and discover their voice in a Christ-centered community—without sacrificing family time, summer freedom, or your values at home.
One Week. One Voice.
One God-Given Calling.
Not just a camp—a catalyst for clarity, confidence, and calling.
Each camp day wraps with a focused writing challenge that moves your teen one step closer to a complete short story draft. These challenges are thoughtfully designed to reinforce the day’s lesson while pushing students to apply what they’ve learned. With consistent writing time built in, students leave camp not only more skilled—but with tangible progress to show for it. This is where their story takes shape—word by word, day by day.
10:50-11:30 cst: Writing challenges
From crafting compelling sentences to writing unforgettable opening paragraphs, our hands-on activities are designed to stretch each student’s skills in fun and practical ways. These bite-sized challenges spark creativity, improve technique, and help young writers feel proud of what they’ve built. Every activity connects to their story-in-progress, giving purpose to the practice. It’s where learning becomes doing—and growth becomes visible.
10:30-10:50 cst: Interactive activities
Our engaging video lessons are paired with rich, guided discussions that bring writing concepts to life. Students will explore how key techniques show up in stories they’ve read—and how to use them in stories they’re writing now. Through whole-group and small-group conversations, they’ll gain clarity, inspiration, and the ability to think like a writer. This time builds both knowledge and confidence in a collaborative, encouraging environment.
9:30-10:30 Cst: Lesson & Discussions
Each day begins with Scripture and reflection, grounding students in truth and pointing them toward Christ as both Creator and Sustainer. These guided devotionals help teens grow spiritually while connecting with a like-minded community of young writers. As they deepen their faith, they’ll also discover how it shapes their voice, their purpose, and the stories they tell. It’s a sacred space to pause, reflect, and be reminded of the One who gave them their creative gift.
9:00-9:30 CST: Devotional & Journaling
Daily Schedule
+ Master the art of story brainstorming to spark creativity and build a strong foundation.
+ Learn how to craft a compelling opening that captures readers' attention.
Forged Amidst Fire
+ Build your skills in developing plot structure that aligns with your Christian values.
+ Gain confidence in starting your story with a clear direction and purpose.
June 16th-20th
+ Develop dynamic characters that are both memorable and rooted in biblical principles.
+ Strengthen your ability to create conflict that drives your plot forward with purpose.
Called To Witness
+ Enhance your dialogue and description skills to make your characters come alive.
+ Work through the middle of your story, refining your writing to keep readers engaged
June 16th-20th
+ Fine-tune your plot development to create a story arc that delivers a satisfying conclusion.
+ Master pacing techniques that build tension and keep readers hooked until the end.
For This Reason
+ Learn how to write an impactful ending that resonates with your audience.
+ Complete your short story draft, ready for revisions and publication.
June 16th-20th
+ Morning Devotions: Start each day with a scripture reading and reflective journaling to ground your writing in faith and purpose.
+ Interactive Lessons: Engage in daily lessons that teach practical writing skills while connecting to biblical truths and storytelling principles.
Daily Schedule
+ Small Group Discussions: Collaborate with peers in small group discussions to deepen understanding and apply lessons to your own writing projects.
+ Writing Challenges: Participate in fun writing exercises that push your creativity and help you make progress on your story, with a focus on key skills like plot, character development, and pacing.
Check Out Our Summer 2025 Line Up
want to know more?
At The Draft Desk, students aren’t just learning how to write—they're discovering how to steward their gifts for a greater purpose.
Led by Misty Nissen, B.A., M.A., M.Ed., a certified educator with years of teaching in both public and private Christian schools, The Draft Desk weaves professional instruction together with a heart for faith and creativity.
This program is designed to help your teen gain real writing skills, grow in confidence, and thrive in a supportive Christian community.
The Draft Desk was created with a simple but powerful mission: to equip young Christian writers to craft excellent stories that point others to the Creator.
$99
For This Reason
July 20th-25th
$99
Called to Witness
June 23rd-27th, 2025
$99
Forged Amidst the Fire
June 16th-20th, 2025
Choose Your Camp Session
Ready to save your child's seat?
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$178
Called to Witness & For This Reason
June 23rd-27th & July 20th-25th
$178
Forged Amidst the Fire & For This Reason
June 16th-20th & July 20th-25th
$178
Forged Amidst the Fire & Called to Witness
June 16th-20th & June 23rd-27th
Choose Your Camp Session
Ready to save your child's seat?
Save $20
Save $20
Save $20
Go Back
Exclusive Share Night: They’ll be invited to a special event where they can share their work with peers and mentors, gaining valuable feedback and encouragement.
Special Editing Seminar: After Share Night, they’ll attend a dedicated editing session to refine their story for potential publication.
Inclusion in the Summer Anthology: Their hard work could be featured in our Summer Anthology, giving them the chance to see their story in print and take pride in their accomplishments!
Join Us For All Three Sessions to Unlock Exciting Opportunities:
When your teen signs up for all three Summer Camp sessions and completes the work, they’ll finish with a complete first draft of a short story, setting them up for success!
This is a unique opportunity for your teen to grow as a writer, deepen their faith, and experience the joy of seeing their creativity come to life!
Sounds amazing, right?
You want your teen to be part of a safe, like-minded community that inspires confidence, connection, and excellence.
You’re looking for structured, high-quality writing instruction that also nurtures spiritual maturity and creativity.
Your teen loves to write and you want to see that gift grow in a Christ-centered, encouraging environment.
The Draft Desk Summer Camp is perfect for your Child if...
We’re confident your teen will love their Draft Desk Summer Camp experience—but we also know committing to something new can feel like a big step. That’s why we offer a 10-day money-back guarantee from the start of camp. If it’s not the right fit, just let us know within 10 days of your session's start date, and we’ll issue a full refund—no hassle, no hard feelings. Your peace of mind matters.
10 Day Money-Back Guarantee
on the fence? We've got you covered
Yes! Safety is a top priority. All live sessions are led and monitored by trusted, background-checked adult mentors, and small groups are carefully moderated. Teens will interact only with peers in the same camp and within a protected online community space.
is this safe? Who will my teen interact with?
Live camp sessions run for about 2.5 hours each day for 5 days, with some light writing work that can be completed outside of camp hours if desired. Everything is structured to be engaging and doable—even during a busy summer.
how much time will my teen need to commit?
Each day begins with a live devotional rooted in Scripture, followed by intentional journaling and group discussion. Our writing lessons and conversations are framed with biblical truths, encouraging students to use their gifts for the glory of God and the good of others. We lovingly point teens to Christ through both word and deed.
What does the faith aspect look like?
Nope! Everything your teen needs is included with registration. Just bring a willing heart, a notebook or Google Doc, and a good attitude—we’ll handle the rest.
do i need to buy anything else for camp?
No worries at all! All main lessons are recorded and available to watch later. While we love having everyone in small groups, it’s okay if your teen needs to miss—it won’t disrupt their progress. Assignments and materials will be posted in the group for easy access.
What if my teen can't make one of the live sessions?
The Draft Desk Summer Camp is designed for Christian teens ages 12–17 who have a love for writing and a desire to grow in both skill and faith. Whether your teen is just beginning or already drafting novels, they’ll find a welcoming space here.
What age group is this for?
Have Questions? We've got answers.
Imagine a summer where your teen not only hones their writing skills but also deepens their faith and connects with a community that truly understands them. This isn’t just another camp—it’s a life-changing experience that equips your teen to craft stories with purpose, embrace their God-given creativity, and grow in confidence. Don’t let another summer pass by without giving them the chance to thrive in a space where faith, creativity, and connection come together.
This Summer Could Change Everything for Your Teen Writer.
don't miss this opportunity
