The Urban Methodist Youth Camp, an EngageMI Ministry Partner, invites campers and counselors from all over Michigan to come to Wesley Woods from July 27 to August 1.
TIALI BOAYUE
Incoming Executive Director, Urban Methodist Youth Camp
Camp season is quickly approaching, and we joyfully invite all of God’s children to the 2025 Urban Methodist Youth Camp, happening from July 27 to August 1 at Wesley Woods Camp & Retreat Center in Dowling, Michigan.
If you’re looking for a spiritually transformative experience full of growth, connection, and fun, this camp is for you! Our theme this year is “Lock In!”, inspired by Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”
The camp is open to youth entering 6th through 12th grade from United Methodist churches throughout Michigan. Since 2009, the Urban Methodist Youth Camp has brought youth together for daily devotions, Bible study, engaging lessons, recreation, and creative activities like Bible trivia, praise dance, swimming, football, and fashion fun. This year, we’re also continuing our college tour tradition with a visit to Western Michigan University!
We are also calling on young adults, from ages 19 to 30, to apply as camp counselors. If you’re passionate about mentoring youth, growing as a disciple of Christ, and having an unforgettable week of service and fellowship, we’d love to have you on our team. Female counselors are especially needed this year. The deadline for counselors to apply is June 14.
Counselor requirements:
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- Must be 19 to 30 years old (at least one year post-high school graduation)
- Must attend two required training sessions
- Must be enthusiastic, responsible, and eager to serve
The first mandatory training session will take place May 9-10 at Wesley Woods. Please arrive no later than 8 pm. The second training will be on June 21 at Downriver UMC in Taylor. Counselors must also arrive at the campsite on July 26, the day before camp starts.
To register as a counselor, click the “Register Here” button in the green box on the homepage.
Here are two testimonies from two campers who became counselors through the program.
“Camp has been a part of my life for over a decade, and it has been a great honor and privilege to go from a camper to a counselor. Watching the kids grow in their faith and form relationships within just one week is the best part about camp for me every year, and what they teach me is just as important as well!” — Stephanie Kenneth, Detroit: Grace Community UMC
“Going to camp, both as a camper and now as a counselor, has always been the highlight of my year. Seeing the campers, and even my fellow counselors, strengthen their relationship with God and grow as individuals and a community will always be an amazing thing to witness.” — Pei Boayue Jr., Detroit: Grace Community UMC
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact me by phone (734-834-0796) or email (boayueka@msu.edu).
We can’t wait to see you this summer. God bless you all!
For over 20 years, the Urban Methodist Youth Camp, an EngageMI Ministry Partner (CCMM#3051), has provided collaborative ministry opportunities for youth in a multicultural urban context. The camp focuses on an affordable, week-long camping experience that allows youth to explore the meaning of life and God’s call on their lives in a safe, fun environment.
Last Updated on April 22, 2025