So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. – Luke 2:6-7
Grace and Peace in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
No Room… but the Innkeeper felt compassion and allowed them to sleep in the stable! The Innkeeper, through his act of kindness, was an active participant in the event which changed the life of Mary and Joseph. Without knowing it, he provided a gift which changed the world!
The United Methodist Camping ministries are an important outreach ministry of our church. More than 13,000 people of all ages are shown the love of Christ through the ministries of our camps and retreat centers. The ministry of United Methodist Camping Changes Lives! Across the state, from Lake Huron to Lake Michigan, our nine facilities stand strong in commitment to Make Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World.
Each summer more than 2,000 children and youth learn about Christ while having fun and experiencing the beauty of being out-of-doors at camp. Over 1,500 lives were changed this year as campers committed their lives to Christ at camp. Many of these campers can attend camp only because of the scholarship gifts provided. This year more than $50,000 was provided to campers who needed help to attend camp.
As families, more than 8,000 people enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation in safe campgrounds, where God is the focus and good clean fun is encouraged. Family Camp programs give each member of the family opportunities to grow in faith, while having fun with other families of faith. Lives are changed. One family camp hosted 300 people from all over the country. Why did they come? They had experienced the life-changing love of Christ while at camp.
During the fall, winter and spring our six retreat centers welcome church groups, family reunions, youth groups, and others to a place where Christ is the focus in our mission to change lives!
This vital ministry of our church does what the Innkeeper did for Joseph and Mary and more. Our camps open their doors and their hearts to any and all who come. They willingly share the love and Gospel of Christ. They seek to Make Disciples of Jesus! They help Change Lives!
Please consider including this offering during Advent. Every gift received will be used to further the mission of Making Disciples of Jesus Christ, through our Camping Ministries!
Later in November, you will receive a printable Advent bulletin insert. We hope your church will participate in this important offering. Please have your congregation make checks payable to the Conference Treasurer and indicate “Camping” on both the memo line and envelope.
What a great example of living out our mission right here in Michigan. What a wonderful example of making disciples and changing lives. This is our ministry! As a connectional church, United Methodists share in this good work done in the name of Jesus, and together, with God’s help, we can make it better and stronger.
With you in the Work of Christ,
Bishop Deborah Lieder Kiesey
Michigan Area Bishop
P.S. Will you please forward this message to the appropriate leaders in your church who can prepare for this offering? Thank you!
Last Updated on January 30, 2024