Dear faithful friends,
We are filled with gratitude as we reflect on the spiritual growth and meaningful engagements at Camp Good News over the last few months and as we move into Spring. Here’s a summary of the key events that have unfolded:
Spring Camp Gratitude
In March we had the privilege to host two weeks of Spring Break Camp welcoming a total of 31 campers, including 18 new attendees. Throughout these two weeks, campers engaged in various activities and lessons centered around our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We witnessed five children making professions of faith. Notably, one child from the Angel Tree program, and a young boy who didn’t know what the Bible was the first time he attended camp. It is encouraging to see them grow, many without any prior knowledge of the Bible or Jesus. We extend our sincerest thanks to the many helpers like Adrianne, Gisella, Rodney, Ms. Caroline who selflessly served wherever there was need.
Here is a link to the pictures from many of these events.
Consistent Growth in Good News Clubs
Our ministry at Shell Elementary continues to flourish, with an average attendance of close to 30 children per week. Since the fall, we have seen new faces and regular attendees, all who have been presented with the gospel, and many have made professions and continue to grow in their faith.
Discipleship Leadership Program
Our Discipleship Leadership mentoring program has remained strong all year through our online Bible study program. We have been encouraged to see some of the counselors take up the challenge to lead the Bible Study. Great work Josh and Luke!
Online Presence and Registration
We have tried to maintain an active online presence through various platforms, reaching camper parents. Stephanie underwent extensive training on the new camp software program, Ultra Camp, ensuring a smoother registration process for parents and the camp, just in time for Spring and Summer Camp!
Community Engagement
Our commitment to spreading the Good News extended beyond the campgrounds, with over 20 lawn signs distributed across Gainesville and beyond including brochures to schools in the surrounding area. All of these serving as beacons of faith, as well as engaging with the local community at events like the Easter Picnic at Trinity in Keystone Heights.
Here is a link to the pictures from many of these events.
Facility Upgrades
We were blessed to have the SOWERs (Servants On Wheels Ever Ready) along with a wonderful couple (Mike and Christine) from Canada help complete projects around the camp. The installation of a new shower and toilet in the Pine Boys bathroom, and the fresh painting of Magnolia cottage, Sports closets built in the gymnasium and 2 carpet ball games for the campers are all wonderful improvements!
Here is a link to some pictures.
Open House at Camp Good News—Mark Your Calendars
For anyone interested, we will have an Open House at the Camp on Saturday May 18th, 2024 from 9:30am till 2:30pm. Coffee and donuts and a free lunch will be provided, we’ll have the 300 ft water slide open in the afternoon, and there may be some work projects (optional) in the morning for those who are interested. Bring a friend, we would love to see y’all!
Address: 120 Twin Lakes Road, Hawthorne, Florida 32640
Time: May 18th, 2024 9:30am – 2:30 pm.
As we anticipate the upcoming Summer Camp, we humbly seek your continued support and prayers for the provision of counselors, kitchen helpers, bible teachers and general assistance around the camp.
Blessings,
Phil and Stephanie, Michael, Christina, Joy and Joanna
By job title, Alice is the office administrator at Oakridge. But her behind-the-scenes efforts go far beyond that! She is actively involved in the leadership team for the Tuesday evening women's bible study, she is on the mission committee, and she has recently both stepped into the leadership of church bridal and baby shower celebrations, and started teaching in our Ozone kids program. Oh, and if you see any special seasonal or holiday decorations around the church, it's a safe bet that Alice was involved!