At a time when our nation faces deep political divisions and has recently experienced the attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump, I urge our community to come together to reaffirm our commitment to the values that unite us. 

Our hearts are heavy with the pain and uncertainty that these events bring. We pray for the healing of those affected and for the restoration of peace in our land. As followers of Jesus and as members of the United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries community, we are called to be beacons of hope and instruments of God's love in the world. 

The events of last Saturday may bring up strong emotions among camp and retreat staff, volunteers, and perhaps some campers. I invite you to consider the following call to action, deeply rooted in the 7 Foundations of our ministry, to guide us in our response:

1. Extend Christian Hospitality and Community

   • Share God's Love: When in conversation, engage others with compassion and kindness, especially those who may feel marginalized or threatened by the current climate. Simple acts of love and hospitality can create a ripple effect of positivity.

   • Build Inclusive Spaces: Ensure our camps and retreats are welcoming to all, creating environments where everyone feels valued and safe. Let our actions reflect God's unconditional love for every person.

2. Develop Principled Spiritual Leaders

   • Mentor and Support: Commit to mentoring children and young people in age-appropriate ways, helping them navigate these challenging times with faith and resilience. Encourage them to be servant-hearted leaders who promote peace and understanding.

   • Lead by Example: Demonstrate through our own actions what it means to be a principled spiritual leader. Show patience, humility, and a commitment to justice in all that we do.

3. Nurture Christian Faith and Discipleship

   • Pray for Peace: Let us come together in prayer for our leaders, our nation, and for each other. Pray for wisdom, compassion, and the healing of divisions within our communities. Integrate prayer into our daily routines as a practice of our faith.

   • Promote Understanding: Engage in conversations that seek to understand different perspectives. Practice empathy and kindness, remembering that each person is created in the image of God. Use these interactions as opportunities to live out the teachings of the Bible and grow in discipleship.

4. Inspire and Equip Lives for Love and Justice

   • Act in Love: As leaders and members of the camp and retreat community, organize and participate in service projects that address the needs of those in your local areas. Encourage campers and staff to engage in acts of kindness and service, which can bridge divides and bring us closer together. Through our collective efforts, we can inspire others to envision and work towards the beloved community of God's kingdom.

   • Advocate for Justice: Stand up for justice and righteousness in peaceful and constructive ways. Let our actions reflect our commitment to the principles of our faith. Equip ourselves and others to be voices for justice, embodying the vision of a world where love and justice prevail.

5. Support Each Other: In times of fear and uncertainty, let us be a source of support and encouragement to one another. Reach out to those who may be struggling and offer a listening ear and a helping hand.

Together, we can be a light in the darkness, showing the world that love, faith, and unity can overcome even the deepest divisions. Let us hold fast to our faith and to each other as we navigate these challenging times.

May God bless and guide us all.

In faith and solidarity,

Jessica Gamaché

Association Director

United Methodist Camp & Retreat Ministries (UMCRM)

Email

Learn more about the 7 Foundations of UMC Camp & Retreat Ministry