By Karissa Darius, Camping Ministries Assistant
Recently, a dozen of Joy El staff members attended the Christian Camp and Conference Association (CCCA) Alleghany Sectional. This sectional is a place where those who work at Christian camps in PA and Christian retreat centers in PA come together for a time of learning, sharing, and worship.
When I think of organizations from the same area https://pachristiancamp.com/, with the same goals and the same “customers” meeting up together, unity is not the first word that comes to mind. Instead, I think of competition. I think of an organization attending for the purpose of scoping out their competition and seeing how they can do things bigger and better than everyone else. This is exactly the opposite of what my experience was like at the sectional.
Although we were all in the same type of ministry, great ideas were shared willingly. They weren’t kept a secret or grudgingly given. Our speakers said, “This is what works great for us, maybe it will work great for your camp too, so feel free to take it!” We were able to network and build relationships with people from other camps. It was truly a place of community.
Why was my experience one of unity and not competition? Because our ultimate purpose is not making money. Our ultimate purpose is not to put others out of business. Our ultimate purpose is not to steal customers. Our ultimate purpose is to foster an environment where others come to experience Jesus! Every camp represented there had its own niche and unique spin on offering summer camps for kids as well as Christian retreats. Ultimately, we were all there because we want to fulfill the great commission! And we want all camps to succeed in sharing the light of Christ with their campers. So why not build each other up?
I am praising God that Joy El has able to come alongside other camps all for His glory. Here at Joy El, we strive for excellence. Not to boast, but to do our best in providing opportunities for people to experience life-change through personal encounters with God.
Upcoming Events:
Father-Daughter Retreat April 12-14, (Daughters 1st -12th Grade)
Joy El Jubilee April 27, 10am-4pm
Work Days: April 6, May 4 and May 18- Call Hannah at 717-369-4539 if interested
