The Story of Camp Tekakwitha
Tucked away in St. Clair County and owned by the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham, Camp Tekakwitha is a cherished sanctuary where faith meets the outdoors. Originally purchased in 1950 from Mrs. Ethel Zuber, the land was chosen with a purpose: to become a summer camp for Catholic boys and girls.
Under the visionary leadership of Fr. John Brunson—who selected the property, raised the necessary funds, and oversaw its construction—the dream of Camp Tekakwitha came to life. Fr. Brunson not only guided the development of the camp but also served as its very first director, setting the tone for decades of joyful, faith-filled summers.
From its earliest days, the Knights of Columbus played a vital role in Camp Tekakwitha’s story. Providing material support and hands-on assistance, the Knights were instrumental in keeping the camp running. Eventually, they assumed full operational responsibility, with the Knights of Columbus State Council managing the camp and continuing its mission to serve Catholic youth. The camp remained active until its first closure around 1989 due to a variety of circumstances.
In February 2010, a new chapter began when Bishop Robert Baker initiated the process of reopening the property—this time as a haven for Boy Scout camping and a place of retreat for Catholic youth. Since then, Camp Tekakwitha has welcomed countless groups from across the Southeast, offering space for reflection, growth, and deep encounters with God through the wonder of His creation.
Today, Camp Tekakwitha stands as a living testament to faith, fellowship, and the enduring beauty of the wilderness. It continues to be a place where hearts are renewed, and young people are invited to encounter Christ in the quiet majesty of nature.
Art by Sarah Arellano
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha
Kateri was born in 1656, the daughter of an Algonquin mother and a Mohawk chief. When she was just four, a smallpox epidemic swept through her village, taking the lives of her parents and younger brother. Kateri survived, but the illness left her face scarred and her eyesight poor. This is how she earned the nickname "Tekakwitha", meaning "she who bumps into things". Raised by her uncle, a powerful chief who opposed Christianity, she was expected to marry young—but Kateri’s heart was already set on something greater. She longed to belong entirely to God. At eighteen, she secretly began learning about the Catholic faith, a choice that brought her ridicule, false accusations, and even threats to her life. Still, she refused to turn back.
Eventually, Kateri escaped to a Christian Native community where her quiet joy and deep devotion shone. She rose early for Mass, returned again in the evening, and often spent hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. She taught children to pray, cared tenderly for the sick and elderly, and embraced a life of simplicity and service. On April 17, 1680, at just 24 years old, she whispered her final words—“Jesus — Mary — I love you.” Moments after her death, witnesses said her scarred face became radiant and beautiful, and soon, stories of her heavenly help and miracles spread far and wide.