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Since 2017, the Solomon Cramer Fund has been sending young people to camp by granting scholarship funds to United Methodist conference camp/retreat ministries. Through these grants, camps have developed innovative programs that reach new people in new places, widening the circle of leadership and campership.

Scholarship grants from the Solomon Cramer Fund encourage us to consider the breadth of our ministries by focusing on the following four priorities:

• Experiences that minister with youth living in poverty

• The intentional development of young people for spiritual leadership and/or leadership with Camp & Retreat Ministries

• Camp experiences that collaborate with local churches and agencies in processes of faith formation 

• Opportunities for increasing racial/ethnic diversity within ministry participation and leadership. 

Special consideration is given to Camp & Retreat Ministries that focus on more than one of those priorities and that are launching new opportunities. 

Sixteen programs received Solomon Cramer Fund grants in 2024.

At The Lake Ministries (Western PA) - Lake rides and fishing charters for those with disabilities and special needs

The charter craft was fitted with custom-built exhaust insulation. This investment ensures proper insulation for hot, exhaust areas of the vessel as well as long-term noise reduction for the benefit of guests who are sensitive to noisy environments.

Camp Connect at Epworth by the Sea (South GA) - Counselor-in-Training program

Grant funding provided 5 high school graduates an opportunity to participate in intentional leadership development through training and hands-on experience as Camp Connect staff in order to bolster qualified staff applications the following summer. CIT Emerson reflected, “I was immediately welcomed by the counselors with open arms, and all my nerves rushed away. We were paired up with our team of counselors for the week, practiced skits & dances, and prayed over our incoming children. When campers arrived it was so moving to see all of the counselors change into “kid” mode, swooping in as “parent” for the week. In each and every co-worker, I saw how God moved through them, caring for & nurturing these kids as if they were their own. Epworth by the Sea is where I feel myself called to serve.”

New Covenant Impact Camp at Lakewood (IN) - Serving under-resourced campers from southeast Fort Wayne

Impact Camp serves children in the inner-city by providing a week of camp for free where they could experience the beauty of Creation, God's love, and community. Twelve campers were sponsored by the grant last year. One of them, Je’Caryous, has been in and out of the foster care system for most of his life. The trauma he’s experienced has caused him to turn into himself and not trust others easily. When he was given the opportunity to go to camp, he was nervous, but by the end of the week was transformed. His walk looked different. His smile was brighter. He was able to let his guard down. He said that he never liked to see himself in pictures before, but that he wanted to now because of the friends he made and his counselor who showed him love. In addition to being overjoyed about the high dive at swim rotation, he said he liked learning about Jesus being a servant because He helped people who had nothing. 

Creation Vacation at Camp Magruder (OR-ID) - Serving families facing housing insecurity who would not otherwise have an opportunity for vacation

Creation Vacation offers low-income families in the Dallas, Oregon area an opportunity to take a beach vacation without cost, and to connect with church families who support the trip and make lasting connections. The structured programming does not just offer these families recreation, but also community, spiritual nourishment, and networking. It gives an aging church the chance to have an impact on families representing demographics that might learn nothing about their church otherwise. It allows camp the opportunity to provide an experience for a socio-economically diverse group of people. 56 campers were enabled to participate in the program this year.

Camp Norwesca LIT Program (Great Plains) - Empowering underprivileged youth and fostering developing leaders through Leaders In Training program

The LIT program equips future counselors with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be effective leaders who can positively impact their campers and contribute to a successful camp experience. 17-year-old friends Patrick and Cody were assigned to lead a large group activity designed to promote teamwork and problem-solving. The activity required them to guide younger campers through a series of collaborative tasks, each with its own set of challenges. With guidance from their mentors, Patrick and Cody prepared meticulously. They divided responsibilities, practiced their communication strategies, and developed a plan to keep the campers engaged. On the day of the activity, their combined efforts paid off. Patrick’s careful planning and Cody’s dynamic facilitation created a balanced and engaging experience for the campers. The activity not only succeeded but also fostered a strong sense of teamwork and excitement among the younger participants.

City Kids to Campers at Camp Tanako (AR) - Providing an outdoor camp experience for minority urban day campers from downtown Hot Springs

While in the past we just provided an opportunity for swim time at the pool, this year the grant enabled expanded offerings including archery, hiking, putt putt, and gaga ball. Through extra staff support, 300 campers were able to participate.

The Hope Project at Indicoso, Rivervale, and Pine Creek Camps (IN) - Providing a free camp experience for under-resourced campers from East Indianapolis

Five new African-American campers were welcomed through the grant this year. Toriah loved making new friends, especially at the pool and at worship. She also liked when the lights went out at bedtime. Mariah also enjoyed making new friends and participating in worship. She was excited to try so many new things and was thankful for the opportunity to slow down for naptime. Jazzmine focused on how new everything felt. She tried lots of new things for the first time at camp.

HOPE Camp at Jumonville (Western PA) - Serving at-risk youth with financial need

We received a follow-up from the foster parent of one of our first-time HOPE campers, reporting how she had not stopped talking about the incredible week she had, all the friends she made, and how much stronger her faith in Jesus had become since attending.

Ozark Mission Project Week at Mount Eagle Retreat Center (AR) - Subsidizing home repair mission week partnership with youth from Arkansas and Texas

The grant was used to offset the cost of 51 campers attending OMP Week at Mount Eagle. They were able to build wheelchair ramps, fix porches, frame out a restroom and so much more to serve our neighbors in the surrounding communities through this camp experience.

Ozark Mission Project (AR) Leadership Academy - Developing leaders among international students from universities in Arkansas through training and mission service

The 2024 grant sponsored an international student from Suriname to participate in OMP's Leadership Academy, a training program which prepares them for a summer of hands-on mission work, discipleship, and engagement with the community. Sponsoring these students equips them with life skills, rewarding mission experience, and financial support toward their college tuition. Jean-Yves was grateful for the people he got to help, the youth he got to lead, and the life-changing experience OMP provided for him during his time in our country. The impact he had on the hundreds of youth volunteers and community members is immeasurable. He also had an opportunity to present a sermon for the first time. He gave a compelling message about unity as members of the body of Christ and how all can use their diverse gifts for the glory of God and to serve others.

L.E.A.D. at Pecometh (MD, Pen-Del) - Developing leaders among underprivileged urban campers of color

The grant covered full camperships for seven campers to attend the LEAD program, which builds young leaders for both Christian and secular spaces. LEAD campers spend the week hearing from leaders in local churches, businesses, and nonprofits. At the end of the week, these campers formulate plans to use their new leadership skills to the benefit of their communities.

Open Arms Initiative at Pocono Plateau (Eastern PA) - Providing camperships,  transportation, supplies,  and leadership support for urban campers with financial need

The 2024 grant enabled the launch of a Day Camp program and provide half-scholarships for 17 campers. 

Eastern UMC at West River Center (MD, Balt-Wash) - Providing a camp experience to under-served children

Originally, the grant intended to help families of incarcerated men to attend camp and have a sense of security and normalcy. Unfortunately, Camp Hope was not able to happen this year due to volunteer issues, so funds were pivoted to Eastern UMC. Eastern is a church in Baltimore with predominantly impoverished children and youth who would not ordinarily be able to afford to come to camp. 25 campers and 7 volunteers from this Black church community were able to attend the camp week. 

Other 2024 grant recipients:

• Camp Shine (Cal-Pac) - Serving campers on the autism spectrum who would not otherwise attend summer camp

• Camp Wesley Woods (TN) - Reaching the Unchurched - Expanding campership access to campers with financial need who do not have a church home

• Camp Days at Mount Shepherd (Western NC) - Asheboro Housing Authority partnership - Camperships and transportation for urban day campers who otherwise could not afford a camp experience

The 2025 Solomon Cramer Grant application will open next week. Consider applying for support of your mission-driven camp program for this coming summer season. 

The UMCRM Board of Directors meets via Zoom 6 times each year and gathers in person for one annual retreat. This year's Board retreat was held at Camp Allen (TX) prior to the National Gathering,

Out-going Directors Samuel Richardson (NEJ, Secretary) and Brant Henshaw (At-Large, Treasurer), were honored for their service, and the Board welcomed incoming Directors Sharon Godbolt (WJ), Erica Robinson-Johnson (NEJ), and Angie Sherer (NCJ). New officers were installed: Jeff Parsons (Bay Shore, MI) will serve as Board Chair, Patrick Roscoe (YMCA of Greater Houston) as Vice Chair, Josh Shaw (Tennessee Western Kentucky Conference) as Secretary, and Tony Prestipino (Wespath, Chicago) as Treasurer.

Bishop Peter Weaver (VA), Martha Pierce (Mountain TOP, TN), Mitzie Schafer (GSB, SC), and out-going Chair Dail Ballard will continue in their Board service.

Guest presenter Robin Scott (pictured above with incoming Vice Chair Patrick Roscoe) enriched the retreat with an experiential training session around Advocacy Leadership. In addition to financial oversight and program review, the board engaged in a visioning process to expand the Association's mission.

200+ United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministry leaders converged at Camp Allen, TX January 27-31 for a WonderFULL week of inspiration, renewal, networking, and learning. View a growing gallery of photos HERE and contribute your own!

We began the week with intros from Dan Kirby (Gretna Glen, PA) and other members of the Gathering Design Team, praise music with the Ripe Worship team, preaching from Rev Gary Lawson, newly retired from Lakeshore Camp (TN), who encouraged us to look for opportunities for wonder and awe. "Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow!" 

Troy Taylor (Camp Magruder, OR) creatively introduced the scriptures and Bible studies for the week that we then reflected on in small groups.  

Tuesday, Beth Jenson taught us about neurodiversity and the unique gifts of "neurospicy" people, whether we ARE them, live with them, or work and minister with them. 

Tuesday night worship included spoken word poetry from Charles (Red Lion Poetry) and preaching from Bishop Cedric Bridgeforth from the Greater NW Episcopal Area on the topic of "Curiosity" and an exhortation to make space for one another's stories. The gathered community held a service of remembrance of our UMCRM saints who have passed on since our last National Gathering. Experiential prayer stations and labyrinth walks engaged our senses and invited creative connection with God throughout the week.

Wednesday we started the day with a block of free time -- some rode horses, some enjoyed a massage, some slept in, and others gathered with staff teams for an off-site adventure. As we regathered in the afternoon, we were treated to a keynote address by Dr. Darrell Hall, helping us to recognize adaptive ways to reach and effectively communicate with folks from all generations. Compass Points capstone graduates were recognized and the Legacy of Leadership Award was given to Gary and Vickie Lawson and Bruce Nelson. Rev Jenna Johnson (West River Center, MD) brought a message on God's presence in the "Unknown." We closed the day with a cupcake and campfire reception. 

The final day's keynote was a panel conversation on the topic of Disaster Response with a team of camp leaders who experienced Hurricane Helene last fall: John Isley (Camp Tekoa, NC), Mike Huber (Lake Junaluska, NC), and Lucy Maynard (Camp Dickenson, VA). The afternoon and evening featured a lively Vendor Hall time with businesses that serve Camp & Retreat Ministries. (Follow up with our Vendors HERE). Thanks to over 100 gifts and pledges from the UMCRM community, we were able to meet a $5K giving challenge toward our 2025 UMCRM Association missional goals. Closing worship featured preaching and the celebration of holy communion with Rev Corey Jones (Warren Willis Camp & Conference Center, FL). 

Materials shared on the Whova app, including workshop handouts and photos, will remain available to participants until the end of April. Links to Workshop materials and Main Stage recordings will also be shared with participants via email in the coming days. For those not in attendance at the Gathering, access to the collection of Keynote and Worship videos will be available for purchase. 

An enthusiastic thanks, once again, to the resilient and creative Design Team: Nick Coenen (Pine Lake, WI), Allison Doyle (Lakeshore,TN), Hope Montgomery (Camp Magruder, OR), Jeff Wilson (Camp Lake Stephens, MS), Dan Kirby (Gretna Glen, PA), Jessie Spangler (Blue Lake, AL), Becky Kilian (Cedar Crest, TN), and TayLa Fugate (Wesley Forest, PA). Thank you, also, to the many other amazing volunteers, workshop leaders, presenters, and behind-the-scenes supporters who pitched in to make this National Gathering successful. We are already excited for 2027 -- stay tuned in S'more Mail for an announcement of the dates and venue for the next UMCRM National Camp & Retreat Leaders' Gathering.

As a celebration of connectionalism and our shared love for United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministry, Jarrett Snider (Program Director at Manidokan Camp & Retreat Center, MD) and I decided to drive a camp van all the way from Maryland to Texas for National Gathering 2025. In the months leading up to our trip we invited others to join, but (surprisingly) we could not find anyone who was excited to drive the 42+ hour round trip with us! 

Our goal was pretty straightforward: drive most of the daylight hours, spend each night at a different UM site, and tour each camp the following morning before beginning the next leg of our journey. 

The epic road trip began from Manidokan (MD) on January 25th and our first stop was Lakeshore Camp & Retreat Center in Eva, Tennessee. Long led by the legendary and recently retired Gary Lawson, this stop was especially exciting because Lakeshore is also Jarrett’s home camp. I had heard SO MUCH about it but had never had the opportunity to visit. We spent some extra time here, making sure to see every special spot at camp and even to enjoy some chicken wings at a local place owned by a camp family. I’m so grateful to now have seen so many places that Jarrett has referenced regarding program ideas, ropes course experiences, and worship spaces. 

Next up, we set Google Maps to route us to Camp Caney in the Louisiana Annual Conference. First off, I want to give a huge shoutout of appreciation to Jennifer Spurlock, the Retreat Coordinator at Camp Caney, who said “yes!” to being a part of our crazy endeavor only about 36 hours before we arrived! Situated on Caney Lake, this site was brand new to both Jarrett and me. We loved getting to stay in one of their camper cabins and enjoyed learning from Jennifer about Camp Caney’s history and traditions. Camp Caney is also home to (in my opinion) the best camp gate! If you’re looking for a new gate option, get in touch with them.

After a WonderFULL week at the National Gathering at Camp Allen, Texas (complete with amazing food, comfortable beds, the newly formed UMCRM Run Club, and SO MANY great workshop presenters & worship speakers) we set our sights on Cedar Crest Camp in Lyles, Tennessee. As someone who grew up at a pretty rustic and “spread out” camp, I’ve always been curious to see Cedar Crest. Audrey Jordan, Cedar Crest’s Program Director, was incredibly hospitable and gave us a tour on Saturday morning, after also returning from National Gathering. From big open fields to beautiful creeks to cozy new cabins, Cedar Crest felt like home and a breath of fresh air. After touring, it’s easy to see why they have started a trail run fundraiser! 

As I reflect on our trip, I’m so thankful for the amazing community that is UMCRM. This past National Gathering was my 6th time attending, and they just keep getting better and better. I feel blessed to be a part of something so beautiful, where everyone is welcome and is excited to lend a helping hand. Next time you’re traveling, don’t hesitate to reach out to your fellow UM Camp and Retreat Ministries and plan a stop to check out some of the amazing sites in our network. Visiting other camps provides valuable opportunities to make connections, build relationships, and invite people into deeper community and participation with UMCRM. A mentor of mine once told me, “a rising tide lifts all boats” and the older I get, the more that rings true. We all have something to give and we all have something to learn. We might as well do it together and be better for it. 

In the dynamic and ever-changing field of camp and retreat ministries, staying inspired, connected, and equipped is essential for leaders shaping lives and fostering faith. This year presents a remarkable opportunity for United Methodist camp and retreat leaders to attend two transformative events: the UMCRM National Gathering and the OMC Great Gathering. Each offers unique benefits, with the National Gathering focusing on the United Methodist mission and the Great Gathering fostering ecumenical collaboration. Together, these gatherings provide an unparalleled chance to deepen the impact of your ministry through practical tools, fresh perspectives, and a strengthened network.

Perhaps you are already registered for the UMCRM National Gathering, happening soon. This biennial event challenges leaders to embrace the awe and wonder in their ministries through the theme “WonderFULL.” With workshops, meaningful connections, and opportunities to reflect on their shared mission, attendees will leave inspired and equipped for the work ahead. Featured speakers include Beth Jenson, who brings practical leadership wisdom, and Rev. Dr. Darrell Hall, whose powerful messages connect faith, leadership, and spiritual growth. This event is a vital touchstone for strengthening United Methodist camp and retreat ministries through tools, relationships, and a renewed sense of purpose.

On the other hand, the OMC Great Gathering, with its theme “Reimagine: a Way in the Wilderness”, broadens the focus to an ecumenical level, uniting leaders from diverse denominations to address shared challenges and exchange innovative solutions. Workshops on sustainability, equity, and program innovation foster creative collaboration and provide actionable tools for thriving ministries. Inspiring speakers include Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro, who celebrates Black leadership in nature; Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a resilience expert who equips leaders to turn challenges into growth; and Brian D. McLaren, a theologian and activist advocating for a just and collaborative Christianity. This gathering fosters ecumenical dialogue, mutual understanding, and creative solutions, making it a transformative space for collaboration and innovation.

The synergy of attending both events lies in their complementary strengths. The UMCRM National Gathering provides a strong foundation in United Methodist identity, grounding leaders in their values and mission. The OMC Great Gathering expands on this by offering fresh perspectives, cross-denominational collaboration, and innovative approaches to outdoor ministry. Together, they create a holistic experience that equips leaders with strategies, relationships, and inspiration to strengthen their ministries from both within and beyond the denomination.

Imagine leaving these events not just with new ideas but with a network of supportive peers who share your mission. By building relationships at both gatherings, leaders can tap into a wealth of collective wisdom and create partnerships that enhance their ministries. Whether it’s learning how another camp incorporates sustainability practices, discovering new ways to engage youth, or finding inspiration in shared worship, these events empower leaders to dream bigger and accomplish more.

This is also a rare opportunity to prepare for the future of outdoor ministries in a rapidly changing world. The challenges of environmental sustainability, social equity, and spiritual engagement require creative and adaptive solutions. Attending both events ensures that leaders are equipped with the tools, connections, and confidence to address these issues faithfully and effectively.

Participating in the UMCRM National Gathering AND the OMC Great Gathering is not just about individual growth—it’s about strengthening the collective impact of camp and retreat ministries across the country. United Methodist leaders who attend both will end the year inspired, empowered, and ready to help shape a vibrant future for camps and retreats, ensuring they continue to be places of transformation, connection, and spiritual growth for generations to come.

'Twas the night before registration, and all through the land
Camp leaders were stirring, excited and planned.
The dates were all set for a gathering bright,
January 27th through 31st, nearly in sight!

At Camp Allen in Navasota, so peaceful and welcoming
Preparations began for Methodist leaders incoming
The WonderFULL theme of this year’s event
A chance for renewal, crafted with intent.

Dr. Rev. Darrell Hall would lead with great care,
While Beth Jenson’s wisdom would be ready to share.
And the Ripe Worship team, from Philly they came,
Their music and passion would set hearts aflame.

Engaging workshops would spark deep reflection,
On topics of ministry, prayer, and connection.
Networking opportunities would help all to grow,
Meeting with colleagues, sharing what they know.

A time for encouragement, to strengthen the soul,
As leaders unite in their common goal.
To learn and to serve, with hearts full of grace,
At the UMCRM Gathering, in this special place.

So mark down the dates, don't let them slip by,
Register soon, the next weeks will fly!
For the WonderFULL Gathering, a time to be fed,
To Camp Allen in Texas, full speed ahead!

Merry Christmas, everyone! We look forward to seeing you at the National Gathering next month. There is still time to register by heading over to United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries - 2025 National Camp & Retreat Leaders Gathering! This experience is a wonderful gift to give yourself, your staff, and volunteers as you prepare for the new ministry year.

On November 15, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas struck down the Department of Labor’s (DOL) regulation that raised the salary threshold for white-collar overtime exemptions. This ruling nullifies both the increase that took effect on July 1, 2024, and the planned increase scheduled for January 1, 2025. The threshold now reverts to $35,568 annually, retroactively applied as of July 1. This decision may have organizations wondering if they should reconsider their recent adjustments to staff compensation. 

Read more about the reversal here, here, and here. 

Many of our UMCRM camp and retreat organizations worked diligently to comply with the now-invalidated FLSA updates, making significant changes to salary structures to meet the July 2024 threshold of $43,888. These changes demonstrated a commitment to fair compensation and the well-being of staff.  

As this ruling rolls back salary requirements, it may be tempting to reverse recent adjustments. The UMCRM Association encourages our member ministries to view it instead as an opportunity to reinforce your commitment to fostering healthy work environments. Maintaining or enhancing the compensation levels established these past several months not only demonstrates your organization’s values but also strengthens staff retention, morale, and program delivery, ultimately fostering deeper connections with campers and retreat guests.

Leverage the OMC Salary Study

UMCRM, in partnership with OMC (the Outdoor Ministries Connection), conducted a detailed salary and compensation study across 240 outdoor ministry organizations. The findings provide comprehensive benchmarks for roles ranging from Executive Director to Program and Maintenance staff. Key takeaways highlight the strong correlation between an organization’s annual budget and compensation levels, offering a critical framework for boards and leaders to evaluate and plan for equitable pay.  

View the full report or explore the interactive tool 

Utilizing the insights from the salary survey, you can ensure your staff's compensation is competitive, fair, and reflective of the work they do. Whether your budget is modest or robust, this study offers actionable guidance tailored to the diversity of our ministries.  

Next Steps: 

• For Directors and Executives: Engage with your board to review your organization’s compensation strategy in light of this ruling.  

• For Boards: Access the OMC Salary Study to benchmark your pay scales and explore long-term adjustments that align with your mission and values.  

• For Staff: Advocate for fair compensation by sharing this resource and its insights with your leadership teams.  

While the regulatory landscape may shift, our commitment to the people who make ministry possible remains steadfast. This ruling provides an opportunity to double down on creating workplaces that nurture not just the spirit, but the livelihood of those who serve our ministries.  

For more information about the OMC Salary Study or additional resources, please contact UMCRM. Together, let’s continue building strong and sustainable ministries.  

Pictured, from lower left back row: Alan Rogstad (Pacific Northwest), Jason Boggs (Western NC), Jessica Gamaché (UMCRM Association), Arthur Spriggs (SC), Chris Schlieckert (Baltimore-Washington), Kevin Witt (Susquehanna, PA), David Berkey (MI), Bob Kahle (Great Plains), Apryl Miller (Eastern PA) ; from lower left, front row: Nancy Lane (IL Great Rivers), Todd Bartlett (OR-ID), Sharon Pajak (Desert Southwest), Dail Ballard (NC), Ann Marie Carley (West OH), Mary Thompson (Holston), Brooke Bradey (NY), Gary Lawson (TN-Western KY), Corey Jones (FL), Keith Shew (Dakotas-MN), and special  guests Lee Padgett (retired), Kevin Johnson (UMC Discipleship Ministries) at the Scarritt Bennett Center, Nashville, TN, November 2024

The 2024 Summit was a well-timed gift, hosted last week at the Scarritt Bennett Center in Nashville, TN. This was my second time attending the Summit as a Conference Chairperson and I have come to experience these gatherings as welcome places of mutual learning and support. This year’s Summit offered a diverse slate of presentations and activities from participants and ministry partners. One of the highlights of the Summit format for me is the peer-led TED Talk style presentations. This year’s talks included a ‘poetic ode’ to the often-misunderstood UMC Trust Clause, an overview of one participant's experience in leading through a strategic planning process, as well as a presentation and discussion about renewal leave and its benefits to leaders and their ministries.

We also had the opportunity to hear from several ministry partners. Lee Padgett presented on a strategic conversation that he had with Bishops at a recent gathering. His conversations focused on the relationship of Camp and Retreat Ministries with the wider vision of the United Methodist Church. We were tasked with listening for “aha” moments and discovered places of alignment and opportunities for sharing information in our own contexts about how Camp and Retreat Ministries are actively participating in the mission of the United Methodist Church.

One of our final gatherings welcomed partners from Discipleship Ministries. Panelists presented on their work and helped to foster a renewed sense of mutuality in relationship to the work of United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries. The learning content of this year’s Summit highlighted the value of our connection and the relationships fostered by this gathering help to make it tangible.

The building and nurturing of relationships is the primary outcome for me in this moment. The relationships fostered during my first Summit experience (in 2023) proved to be an invaluable gift to my own ministry. These relationships provided a great deal of support and a wealth of knowledge to call upon in key moments throughout the year. As I emerge from this year’s Summit, I again feel a sense of support from the time spent together and look forward to continuing to grow in and through these relationships and

the gift of UMCRM.

Rev. Jason Boggs is a provisional elder in the Western North Carolina Conference of the UMC and chairs the Council on Camp and Retreat Ministry. He has served for many years in various camp staff and volunteer roles, in youth ministries, and currently pastors a thriving charge.

*photo credits: Dail Ballard

In 2006, Time Magazine named their annual “Person of the Year” in an unconventional manner. Noting the sudden rise of social media, YouTube, and other content creators, the cover of the magazine didn’t have a photo of a person, but instead had a picture of a computer screen that declared “You” as the person of the year.

If this is the first you’ve heard of this award you’ve won, congratulations!

We’d like to propose a different angle on this award as we think about the upcoming National Gathering. Allison and I have been a part of the planning process for two of these events now and a common thread always arises in our meetings.

More than the speakers, the location, workshops, vendors, and everything else, the key component of every event is our community. All of the other components certainly add value, but they are really just the context for the conversations we have with each other.

When we hear an amazing speaker, we gather to share how it may have encouraged a new way forward for our ministry. We attend workshops where we hear thoughtful questions and comments from colleagues, giving unique perspectives to the topic at hand.

Isn’t this true at our camps and retreat centers as well? For all the planning and effort we put forth in an amazing program, we all know the success of our programs can rise and fall with the staff and campers who are present each week. Having a week filled with returning campers always reminds us that the program could fade totally away and they would still have the best week of their summer.

The community we have in our organization is special. We have a wide range of experience, perspectives, and insights. To be that robust community takes all of us. For those who are new to this career, you can hear common experiences from fellow new leaders and the long-view wisdom from veteran camp and retreat ministry pros. Conversely, if you have been doing this for a while, isn’t it always good to hear the bright optimism and enthusiasm of those who are just wrapping up their first couple of summers?

If you have never been to a UMCRM National Gathering event before, we invite you to join us in Texas in January. We are confident this is a community that can help you both grow professionally and encourage you personally. 

If you have been to a National Gathering and haven’t registered yet…we understand. Your schedule is endlessly full and “one more thing” is easy to put off for another day. But consider this as doing something for yourself as well. For all the deadlines that loom, could this be a countdown on your phone that you can look forward to as an oasis? It’s helpful to our planning team to know that you’re coming, and your registration fees may be paid in the new year if needed. We encourage you to sign up today, and hope you will bring fellow staff members and a few board members or volunteers, as well.

While we can’t promise a Time Magazine cover, the truth of that sentiment can still apply in a way. The most important part of the UMCRM and the National Gathering is certainly “You,” but even more, we like to think it is about “Us.” A community called to ministry in beautiful, unique, quiet settings that are set apart so God can move in the lives that seem immovable. We are blessed to steward these “WonderFull” places. Let’s gather together to remind each other of that blessing this January!

Nick Coenen has served as the Director of Pine Lake Camp in the Wisconsin Conference since 2005. He is Co-Chair of the 2025 National Gathering Design Team along with Allison Doyle from Lakeshore Camp (TN). His ministry is fueled by the love of Jesus, his amazing spouse Jamie Coenen, and Count Chocula cereal.