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For those in attendance at the National Camp and Retreat Leaders’ Gathering in Texas in January, you’ll completely understand when I say, “Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow!!!” It was such an incredible joy to know that so much of what we all do in camping ministry is hopeful, compassionate, service-oriented, environmentally conscious, and designed to bring others to know the loving embrace of our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. We have all committed ourselves, whether our service is paid or volunteer, to welcoming diverse people of all ages, facilitating faith-building challenges, providing environments for encountering God, and regularly hearing life-changing testimonies. 

My exposure to Christian camping started at Jumonville in Western PA during Hurricane Agnes as an 8th grader, and despite not having a dry item of clothing all week way back then, each of the subsequent 52 summers (except 2020) I have made it a priority to return to camp. During the 3 summers of my college years, I was on paid Program Staff that rotated among the 3 sites in Western PA: Wesley Woods, Jumonville, and Camp Allegheny. I was given the opportunity to direct 3 different camps, one at each site, during my third summer. It was clear to me then that it was a much better choice than being a bank teller to get business experience. I remember telling my father that “this is the last time in my life that I can get paid for something I love to do.” After moving to the Lehigh Valley, I volunteered as a counselor and Program Director at Pocono Plateau, Innabah, and Gretna Glen in Eastern PA. Coming full circle, I moved back to the Pittsburgh area in 2019 and have volunteered as a Dean at Jumonville since then. 

All of those experiences have given me a love for Christian camping that is not site-specific. We all know many others whose experiences are all about where they were when “it” happened, but for me, I encountered God in all of these places and know that the sites that we provide are simply the settings that God uses to reach many more people than would be possible at a single location. I believe the nationwide United Methodist camping program is as good as it gets, and the bi-annual UMCRM National Gatherings reinforce that for me every time.

This year, when we were all asked on the first night of the Gathering to help fund a special initiative for the National Summer Staff Exchange Program, I felt a nudge. I knew that the entire cost of $12,500 was more than I had ever given to any single need, but it wouldn’t happen if someone didn’t step up. I knew that having camping experiences in different settings had changed my life and given me a vision for camp and retreat ministries that wasn’t site-specific. I knew that after 52 years, it was time to encourage others to have similar experiences. As a volunteer Program Director, I have learned more than anything that it is my job to invite and God does the calling. I was called to teach high school math and computer science so I could volunteer every summer for 45 years, but I am so very thankful for those within the UMCRM community who have committed your lives to making this a life-long vocation.

If the Summer Staff Exchange initiative adds to your ranks and sustains the pipeline of dedicated, highly-skilled, and visionary Christian camping leaders, it will be well worth my financial investment. In closing, I’m inviting you, especially camp supporters who are older and not actively involved professionally, to consider how God is calling you to give back. Please join me in inspiring and equipping dedicated United Methodist Camp leaders for future generations.

Carlen Blackstone has served as a summer staffer, volunteer dean, and camping board member at various United Methodist camps across Pennsylvania for over 50 years. She has provided foundational funding support for the new UMCRM Summer Staff Exchange Program. 

Learn more about the Summer Staff Exchange

Thank you, Carlen, for your passion and generosity!

Every 2 years since 1976, there has been a gathering for all of the United Methodist camp and retreat leaders across the country. I have attended 8 of these National Camp & Retreat Leaders’ Gatherings over the years in Colorado, California, Georgia, and Florida, solely as a volunteer, first as a Camping Board Chair in Eastern PA and recently as a member of the Camp and Retreat Ministry Team in Western PA.  Every one of them has reminded me convincingly that what the United Methodist Church offers in camping ministry is second to none. I say that because of the diversity of its sites for all levels of accommodation, the diversity of its programming for all ages, and more importantly than anything, the diversity of its leaders as professionals and volunteers.

While I was in college, I was on a rotating Program Staff in Western PA from 1976-78 (alongside Kevin Witt and others) and it hooked me on the incredible opportunities for spiritual and personal growth that Christian camping offers to all generations. Bishop Peter Weaver, when he served the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference, called camping ministry the “Environment of Encounter.” When he gave the message at the 50th anniversary for the Jumonville Cross in 2001, he told us that “this cross can’t just be seen from 3 different states but from all over the entire globe because of the lives that have been changed here.” Having served at 6 different camp sites across Pennsylvania, I have realized that these life-changing experiences are not specific to any one camp or style: we encounter God in many different ways based on what each camp environment has to offer. 

This year’s National Gathering, held at Camp Allen near Houston, TX, featured some very memorable moments as we explored the theme “WonderFULL.” Rev. Gary Lawson, who received the Legacy of Leadership Award upon his retirement from over 30 years of camp leadership, shared a message reminding us to experience all of the wonder that is around us and how often we should exclaim, “Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow” every day, multiple times a day, wherever we are. Another high point for me was meeting Mark Charles, who co-authored the book Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery, which identified the roots of our ongoing national struggle for a just society for all people, especially BIPOC communities. Christian camping has often catered to populations with enough resources and familiarity with the outdoors, but we are called to intentionally work at welcoming and inviting those who have been left out. The event included a plethora of workshops, inspirational keynotes, energizing worship experiences, thought-provoking Bible studies, and even a morning to completely relax and get a chair massage. Most participants are serving in full-time camp and retreat ministry, and there is increasing need for more to serve in staff and volunteer roles to keep these ministries sustainable and effective.

Denominational disruptions over the past few years have impacted camp and retreat ministries even as we continue to offer hospitality and open doors to all, many outside the United Methodist Church. Our organizations have needed to seek revenue from outside sources as funding within the denomination has decreased. The opportunity to reach children and youth solely from within UMC church communities has become less. However, this Gathering and my lifelong love for the life-changing opportunities in Christian camping make me hopeful about reversing these trends. In fact, it is God’s wonder that is so evident in the natural world, in the love shown by camp leaders to campers, and the commitment of volunteers to support the ministry with their time and resources. It is God at work when camps provide opportunities for challenge experiences, group games, Bible study, worship, and just hanging out together. It is God calling each of us at any age to be His disciples and walk more fully in the life of faith. Nothing else offers such a complete, immersive experience as Christian camping.

As a Volunteer Director/Dean for over 50 camping experiences, I have spent my life inviting others to be volunteers and planning experiences for us to encounter God. Therefore, I must conclude by inviting all who are reading this to do at least one of the following things to participate in this summer’s camping program:

1. Work on paid summer staff at one of our United Methodist camps. Few other job opportunities will be so fulfilling, regardless of pay.

2. Volunteer as a counselor for an event this summer by contacting one of the Executive Directors instead of thinking about why you can’t. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

3. Attend a camping experience yourself and invite others to join you, especially if you’ve never gone before, because it might change the rest of your life.

4. Contribute financially to scholarships and facilities improvements. Money should never be the reason why a child or youth cannot attend camp.

5. Pray for God to be at work in WonderFULL ways this summer.

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.