Sacred grounds...a place to shape faith & young lives
Andy Stoker, left, shares a special moment with Children’s Camper George Elliott, who wears his special "App" T-shirt, as part of the iPray curriculum used at all Children's Camps.
BY DR. ANDY STOKER
Associate Director for Connectional Ministries
Bridgeport Camp has a special place in so many hearts and minds all over the North Texas were met by Jesus Christ for the fi rst time at Bridgeport Camp, some met their closest friends at Bridgeport and still others of us received a call to ministry at Bridgeport. At the close of camp this summer, walking toward the last evening’s activities passing the cross on the hill, a counselor looked at the cross and said, “This cross has meant so much to so many for so many years.
What an experience throughout the years.”
Those who planted a camp on Lake Bridgeport in 1949 could have only imagined how many young people and adults have been affected by camping ministries. We sing, we pray, we swim, we eat, we fish, we ride, we laugh and we love. Campers take from camp into the world a powerful witness of faith from the parish to the world. This summer was a summer to remember. Children and youth were introduced to the person and work of Jesus Christ through worship, small group connection and Bible study.
Families were also affected by camping ministries. Over 100 families were loved through the compassion of 150 Sacred grounds…a place to shape faith & young lives her son said, “I cannot imagine a summer without SEEK; it is a week where I care for myself and recharge my battery.”
What would the summer have been without our new Executive Director, Trueman Hoffmeister. Trueman is a gift to the North Texas Conference. He surrounded himself with a great staff as well: Caleb Burk, Guest Services Director, and six great college-age interns. Camping ministry is alive and well due in large part to the powerful witness of the love of God.
The power of the camping ministry is that a young person can catch a glimpse of the reign of God. Every week, campers and volunteer staff reflected a community of grace and peace where all were included and all were welcome as children of God. There is no better place to respond to God’s abundant grace in Jesus Christ, to meet your best friend or even hear a still small voice from God wooing you to a life of discipleship serving neighbors of North Texas and the world. May God continue to bless the ministry of Bridgeport for another 60 years.
