In our ever-changing world, leaders must continually seek new ways to forge onward and keep our ministries relevant. Together we will be inspired to take our Camp and Retreat Ministries ONWARD! Forward, Further, Beyond. Here’s an inside look at the scriptures that are inspiring our 2015 Gathering:
GOING FORWARD
Isaiah 43:18-19 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
Don't be afraid to keep moving on, for what was before has now gone. God wants to accomplish so much more in our ministries, but we need to move forward in the Lord.
GOING FURTHER
Matthew 5:41 "If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles."
How are we called to go the second mile in Camp & Retreat Ministries? How can we provide avenues for people to explore their faith further? How can we provide opportunities for people to further the experiences they’ve had within traditional church settings?
GOING BEYOND
Hebrews 12:1-2 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
In ministry, there are many times when we are called to perform outside of our comfort zones. Often this means going beyond the physical limits of our camp and retreat sites--going into the country, going into the cities, going beyond the preconceived notions of what Camp and Retreat Ministry is about in order to change lives and make disciples for Jesus Christ.
The Message: Philippians 3:12-14 "I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: by no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us ONWARD--to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back."
We look forward to joining with you at Epworth-by-the-Sea January 26-30, 2015, as we journey ONWARD together in Camp and Retreat Ministry.
- Daphne Orr, Mt Asbury (PA), Event Design Team