2026 UMCRM Immersion Experience

The UMCRM Immersion Experience is an unforgettable week. A core component for the Certificate in United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministry, this event is open to anyone who would benefit from an immersion into what it means to lead a uniquely United Methodist Camp, Retreat and Conference Center.

New and aspiring Directors and Program Directors, board members, and key staff, as well as students seeking Certification, are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to grow and be nurtured by exploring the following topics:

• Methodist/Wesleyan Theology and Doctrine

• Faith Formation

• Methodist Camping History, Heroes, & Best Practices

• The Seven Foundations of Camp/Retreat Ministry

• Stewardship of Places, Resources, and Relationships

• Governance Models/Working with your Board

• Collaboration with Local Churches and Agencies

• Roundtable discussions on UMC changes, theology, and concerns specific to students and their sites

Perhaps best of all, the event features networking with peers in small groups and growing in relationship with colleagues across the nation, many of whom may become friends and encouragers throughout your ministry.

Reflections from past Immersion participants:

"In that week, I was able to plant the seeds to what turned into a network of close colleagues at a similar stage in our camping professions. Some of those connections are now my dearest friends and the people I call immediately when I need advice, to rant, to celebrate."

"Like Camp for Leaders" – Collin Grooms, 2018

"Circumnavigating The UMCRM Globe at Mach Speed" – Matt Williams, 2018

Faculty: 

• Rev. Kevin Witt - Director, Age Level Ministry/Beloved Community Ministry/Camp & Retreat Ministry, Susquehanna Conference
• Rev. Megan Weston - former Program Coordinator, Pecometh Camp & Retreat Center; UMC General Board of Church & Society Board of Directors
• Rev. Jennifer Hampton - former Director, Camp Tekoa Foothills; Resource Development Director, Burke County United Way
• Jen Burch, M.Div. - Director of Communications & Community Engagement, UMCRM

Course requirements:

The syllabus / reading assignments will be made available after Thanksgiving 2025. There will be one book, several articles and excerpts to read prior to the course, and a reflection paper due following the course.

Cost:

The inclusive cost is $967-$1132 (depending on housing type) for course tuition, 5 nights' lodging at Asbury Hills, and 14 meals. Full payment is due by January 16th, 2026 (online via credit card, or check postmarked!)

To support our UMCRM Association member ministries in cultivating leaders, Immersion students are eligible to apply for Legacy of Leadership scholarship funds during either the October or January application periods. Apply here. 

Cancellation policy: In the unlikely event that Immersion is canceled by UMCRM, full refunds will be issued. Students may cancel for a partial refund (less $100 admin fee) up to 90 days prior to the event. No refunds are available for cancellations after January 16th.