Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
John 14:6 NIV
888 960 2580
info@onehopecanada.ca www.onehopecanada.ca
One Hope Canada has partnered with the local church since 1927 to develop life-long followers of Jesus by clearly communicating the Gospel. Every year, more than 30,000 children and youth discover Jesus through camps, community outreaches, and innovative ministry strategies.
Canada’s Hope is the biannual publication of One Hope Canada. Letters, articles, and photos are welcome. Names appearing in articles may have been changed.
EDITOR
Kelly Rempel
COPY
Canada Engaging
During a camp visit this summer, I found myself in a conversation with teenagers about birth years. Before long, they were tossing around the phrase “back in the 1900s,” much like my history teacher did with the 1800s. It was a humorous reminder that a new generation is here.
Generation Alpha, today’s children and youth, have grown up in a world dominated by selfies, Instagram, and Snapchat. Constantly connected through digital media, they are true digital natives—tech-savvy in ways unimaginable just a few years ago.
Yet despite their digital fluency, Generation Alpha is distinct from the generation before them (Gen Z). They have a strong desire to make a difference in the world, value authenticity, and are eager to share their views with others. Interestingly, they are also more likely to seek time outdoors and step away from technology.
Camp is a safe space to ask questions, be themselves, and learn how they can truly make a difference in the world.
That’s why camp ministry remains so effective in reaching the children and youth of Canada. At camp, kids experience God’s creation, away from digital distractions. It’s a safe space to ask questions, be themselves, and learn how they can truly make a difference in the world—by discovering the One who has already accomplished the ultimate act of love to save it.
Summer camp often sparks a relationship with Christ, and we want that relationship to deepen long after camp ends. That’s why One Hope Canada partners with nearly 400 local churches across the country, offering tools like the FaithSpark app at no cost to support their discipleship efforts. FaithSpark provides a safe space for kids to grow in their faith and maintain relationships with camp and church leaders and peers. It also helps local churches continue discipleship between gatherings through conversations, Bible studies, and prayer, ensuring the seeds planted at camp, and nurtured by the local church, can grow year-round.
Our methods—whether through digital tools like FaithSpark or timeless approaches like camp ministry—may change, but at the core of everything we do is the basic, yet profound truth: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.
BILL MCCASKELL National Director
NOTABLE NUMBERS
GENERATION Z: Born 1999–2010
GENERATION ALPHA: Born 2010–2024
Desire to make a difference and help others: Gen Z: 15% Alpha: 33%
More likely to value sharing their views and opinions: Alpha 43% more likely, compared to Gen Z
Prefer to go outside and use less tech to manage mental health: Gen Z: 51%
Alpha: 74%
SOURCE *Razorfish x GWI Primary Research, 2022
A Legacy of Faith: Macy’s Story
Imet Macy and her younger sister years ago at the SONshine Bible Club. I’ll never forget that meeting: two small girls, clinging to each other in a world stacked against them.
Their school was in a neighborhood known for its struggles, and their home life was really difficult.
However, every week, rain or shine, Macy brought her little sister to the Bible club. With the father’s permission, we took the girls to church each Sunday, along with several other children from the neighborhood.
This weekly routine became an anchor for their souls.
After church, the girls came to our home for lunch and an afternoon of fellowship, laughter, and seeing Christ’s love in action. This weekly routine became an escape from their hardships, an anchor for their souls.
Years passed and Macy grew into a young woman with a fierce love for her Lord. SONshine Bible Club had been a stabilizing force in her life, guiding her through
tumultuous times and anchoring her heart in the truth and love of Jesus.
Today, Macy is a college graduate, a dedicated wife, and a mother who brings her child to SONshine Bible Club. She is raising her child in God’s ways, just as she was raised in the Word. Macy has become a vocal advocate for Christ, passionately sharing her faith with those around her.
Her journey reminds me of 3 John 1:4: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Watching Macy and her family walk with God has been among my greatest joys. Her story, a beautiful testimony of God’s faithfulness, reminds us that He is present even in the most difficult circumstances, shaping lives from one generation to the next for His glory. Macy’s story is living proof that God can redeem any story.
STEPHANIE MARTYNUCK directs SONShine Bible Club’s ten after-school clubs in and around Sault Ste. Marie, ON.
God at WorkOnline
4,100 STUDENTS & LEADERS
300 MINISTRIES (camps, churches & youth groups)
50,000 CONVERSATIONS
7,500 BIBLE CHAPTERS READ
“How do I know for sure that God is actually listening to me?”
A camper asked that question using the digital question box on One Hope Canada’s FaithSpark app. Over the past few years, I’ve seen FaithSpark increasingly becoming more than just a tool to facilitate conversations. It’s a discipleship ministry that is making a real impact.
Kennedy Trachsel, discipleship and follow-up director at Dauphin Bible Camp, says FaithSpark engagement this summer was the highest since the camp began using it four years ago. Some campers slower to participate in camp activities made deep connections with their camp leaders through the app. Simple chats became stepping stones to ongoing discipleship.
FaithSpark isn't only about chats—it offers new opportunities to share the Gospel. Kennedy hopes to send weekly devotions through camp group chats, providing Dauphin Bible Camp with a new way to make year-round impact.
Cory Vail, One Hope Canada’s Atlantic field director and church Awana leader, shares how his own children use FaithSpark to stay connected with Awana and Sandy Cove Bible Camp friends. It’s amazing how FaithSpark has created safe spaces to build faith-based relationships— beyond One Hope Canada camps!
Recent updates, such as improved chats and photo galleries, have made FaithSpark more inviting, creating rich ministry experiences. Campers eagerly await new photos and Bible trivia questions, while parents like Cory appreciate FaithSpark’s safety features. A full version of the Bible is another new feature; it is available in English, French, and Spanish. More than 7,500 chapters have already been read!
In reflecting on this summer, I’m grateful for the app’s ministry growth. Watching God at work reinvigorates me and I am excited about what He will do next.
JOSH WOODCOCK is One Hope Canada’s FaithSpark director.
"FaithSpark
is a game-changer. In all my years of being involved in youth ministry, I've never encountered such an innovative and practical tool. It should be a staple in every NextGen ministry."
Jared Crispin, Movement
Church
British Columbia
CAMP AMASA
At camp this summer, Wade, a new camper with a bass voice, joined our director in singing How Great Thou Art. Lucy jumped up to sing, do the actions, and praise God. Water Mania, another camp favorite, kept us cool in 35-degree weather.
ECHO LAKE BIBLE CAMP
After no camp last year because of wildfires, we were thrilled to operate this summer! God’s amazing team worked hard to give campers a great experience. We staffed an extra boys cabin for both junior and intermediate camps. When I called one family to let them know, the parent cheered, and in the background I heard an excited child yelling, “I get to go to camp!” Families keep talking about how much they loved this year at camp.
LAKE OF THE TREES BIBLE CAMP
During teen camp this year, the Lord’s presence showed up powerfully during an evening chapel. Many teens were in tears under the Holy Spirit’s conviction. I was standing to the side, available for prayer, when two friends approached. The first received Jesus earlier that day and wanted prayer to help deal with sin in his life. While I prayed for him, the second started sobbing and said he also wanted Jesus in his life. What a privilege to be part of their spiritual journeys!
NESS LAKE BIBLE CAMP
A camper’s mom, who attended NLBC as a child, sent us this note: "Camp got me through some not-so-fun years of my life. I made lifelong friends and had the best weeks of my life! I love that my kiddo gets to experience what I did. I was a sponsored camper—without sponsorship I couldn’t have gone, because Mom was a single parent on disability. There’s something special at Ness." That something special is God’s love shown to campers by our team.
"This comfort provided opportunities for solid conversations."
RANDY LOCKHART Director of Ministry
WBAY BIBLE CAMP
Experiencing God’s Provision
ith a theme of God’s Provision this summer, we taught campers that God provides sun, rain, seeds, water, and good soil for growing. Many campers had never seen food growing, so we toured gardens, visited chickens, and saw eggs in nests.
We spoke about God’s greatest provision, the way to Him through His Son, Jesus Christ, who died to pay the price for our sins.
One speaker taught about Joseph, the Old Testament son of Jacob, and his need for the heavenly Father throughout numerous trials. Campers from broken homes heard that God was there during Joseph’s trials and had a plan for his life. This comfort provided opportunities for solid conversations.
Once campers have been here several days, God’s love, the camaraderie of other kids, and our team efforts help them feel safe and welcome.
Joshua came for the first time to junior camp but didn’t stay overnight. His mom was concerned he would struggle, but he flourished and wanted to stay nights. By week’s end, he was reluctant to leave and wants to return next year.
Blaine struggled for several days, acting out and striking others. After several chats, he realized he was safe at camp and the rules were there because people care. He is learning what it means to follow God’s way, even though he struggles. By the end of the week, there was a big change as he learned how to be a friend.
HOPE BAY BIBLE CAMP is on Pender Island, BC. www.hopebaybiblecamp.com · 250 629 3194
HOPE
"True love is the greatest goal of Jesus’ followers."
MARK WILSON Camp Director
OCreating Christ-Centered Connections
ur camp’s motto is Building Relationships, Changing Lives. We share the Gospel often, but always with the backdrop of close relationships. This summer we had at least six new-to-Canada campers who barely spoke English, so we built relationships to show Christ’s love through candy, hugs, good food, high fives, crazy games, and activities. True love is the greatest goal of Jesus’ followers and it can be shown in more ways than just words.
What a highlight when two energetic boys from Ukraine won our “Tough Mudder” race—climbing nets, jumping into inflatable castles, and crawling through mud, determined to beat cabin leaders and laugh at them.
At the end of the week, the boys’ knew their parents were planning to pick them up early. However, another camper who knew the language helped translate an important message: the boys wanted to stay longer!
We called their parents together and although I couldn’t understand a word, I understood the feeling. They loved camp so much! Their parents agreed and the boys got to stay for slushies with their cabin.
Relationships are essential at camp. We do not merely communicate information, but embody and express Jesus’ love and grace. The world is overloaded with information, but starved for love and connection. When we allow Jesus to love through us, kids and families notice and some choose to follow Him.
MAPLE SPRINGS BIBLE CAMP is in Peachland, BC. · www.maplesprings.ca · 250 767 2354
MAPLE SPRINGS BIBLE CAMP
Alberta
CAMP SILVERSIDES
I love starting our summer season with family camp. It gives us a few days to get into the swing of things and helps families reconnect after a busy school year. Parents and caregivers play with their children with multiple generations joining in. A highlight was the opportunity to serve all the foster families that attended.
DAVID THOMPSON BIBLE CAMP
It’s important that our campers grow closer to Christ. Even though we had a smaller team and fewer campers, we really focused on those who came. Many campers returned home with a new love for the Bible and a hunger to know more.
JOY CHAPEL MINISTRIES
What a blessing to hear Anne’s confession of faith: “I love Jesus, Lord and God. I pray to Him every day.” Another camper wrote, “I met God at camp.” A young man, who has come to Joy Camp for many years, told our director, “I want to surrender to God.” Our theme this summer was prayer and we encouraged campers to, “tell it to Jesus.” May God continue His work in the lives of these special needs campers.
ROSS HAVEN BIBLE CAMP
By the time our last kids camp ended, many summer team members were sick. We were tired. Our strong God brought revival in our time of weakness. In that week, those who came to Jesus for salvation equaled the number saved throughout the rest of the summer. With tears of joy, campers shared with others how great it is to know Christ as Savior!
DANNY JOHNSON General Director
BRYCEN REIMER Head Leader
“One boy kept his Bible with him most of the day. We regularly found him reading God’s Word and memorizing.”
Learning God’s Word Together
For the past few summers we tried various strategies to implement Bible memorization. This year we offered two incentives.
First incentive: Earning cabin points for learning the “Verse of the Day.” This encouraged those who didn’t know their Bibles well, and they received help from cabin leaders or other campers. The cabin with the most points—collected through memorization and other activities—won a prize at the end of each week. It was great to see campers working together!
Second incentive: Earning an extra item at tuck time. We made a list of 50 familiar Bible verses campers could memorize. For each verse memorized, their name went into a daily draw for an extra treat. This prevented church kids from getting all the points.
One boy kept his Bible with him most of the day. We regularly found him reading God’s Word and memorizing. Occasionally, he asked a leader how to pronounce a word or what a verse meant. Our leaders spent considerable time that week listening to this camper recite verses! We trust God will use them for His glory!
BEAR LAKE BIBLE CAMP is about 30 minutes northwest of Grande Prairie, AB. · www.bearlakebiblecamp.org · 780 567 2293
BEAR LAKE BIBLE CAMP
“Our multi-generational team saw first-hand how God uses His servants.”
TERRY BOETTCHER National Board Member/ Camp Volunteer
IMulti-Generational Ministry Makes an Impact
n recent years, it was challenging for Whitney Lake Bible Camp to find enough volunteers for a full summer of ministry. This year, facing the possibility of not opening, the camp appealed for help from area churches.
As God worked in hearts, volunteers from various age groups and communities signed up, and when camp started, God had assembled an eager team, ready to serve.
It was a true blessing to see how each one lent their strengths to impact campers for God’s glory! It was difficult for more seasoned team members to admit they were no longer young, but fun was had as each did what they could to build meaningful relationships with campers.
It is often assumed that camp ministry is only for youth, but our multi-generational team saw first-hand how God uses His servants in whatever role they are willing to play.
While we pray that more teens and young adults will join next year’s team, I also hope those a little older will consider how God could use their gifts and abilities to serve Him through camp ministry in 2025.
WHITNEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP is in Whitney Lake Provincial Park, 29 kilometers east of Elk Point, AB. www.whitneylakecamp.ca · 780 603 7658
WHITNEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP
Saskatchewan
BETHEL GOSPEL CAMP
Two years ago, after a rough start, Sadie became a Christian while at camp. Last year she returned, attentive and with a good attitude. This year she was back again, but shared with her cabin that following Jesus is hard—she wasn’t sure it was worth it. By the end of the week and many questions later, Sadie recognized that the Christian life is worth it and was looking for help to make it through another year. Our prayer is that Sadie—and others like her—have the opportunity to grow in their faith while at home.
KENOSEE LAKE BIBLE CAMP
Our theme this summer was Firm Foundation. After camp, a parent shared how her child prayed, “Dear Jesus, thank You for saving me. Please be my firm foundation.” It is so amazing to hear how God works in young hearts, drawing them closer to Himself!
LUSELAND BIBLE CAMP
Campers arrived bursting with excitement and energy. When they felt safe to talk about things that matter, they’d ask, “How do I start going to church? Just show up? How do I know if the Bible is true or trustworthy?” Quest campers were eager to learn from archeological finds that prove the validity of God’s Word. Such lightbulb moments, when God’s truths are caught and understood, are just some of the blessings of serving at camp!
MADGE LAKE BIBLE CAMP
With Chosen as our camp theme, campers and leaders learned through the Old Testament story of Esther what it meant to be chosen by God. Our actor who portrayed Mordecai rode in on a pony! When asked to share highlights, the campers’ resounding answer was “Chapel!” Singing songs, praising the Lord, learning about Jesus’ love—the kids are deeply impacted and wanting to learn more.
“God uses camp to transform lives, including mine.”
From Broken to Loved
Many have asked, “Why do you keep going back to camp?” My reply: Because God uses camp to transform lives, including mine!
After starting my camping life as an eight year old, I grew up eagerly looking forward to my one week of camp each summer. Meeting cabin mates and connecting with my cabin leader was exciting; I always felt loved, safe, and accepted.
Profoundly impacted by cabin leaders, skill instructors, and our program directors’ passion for Jesus and deep love for others, I grew in my relationship with Jesus.
Today, many campers arrive with no hope. Their week at camp is the only week of the year when they feel loved and accepted. We share our hope in Jesus and how He has transformed our lives. Kids come angry and leave full of joy. Kids come broken and leave with hope. Kids come unloved and leave with a sense of God’s deep love.
Many lives were changed this summer, not because of our efforts, but because of God working through His people.
DALLAS VALLEY RANCH CAMP is 20 minutes northwest of Regina. www.dallasvalley.com · 306 731 3348
CADE FALCONER Spring/Summer Team Leader
DALLAS VALLEY RANCH CAMP
“The Lord did the rest.”
SHAWN BISSONNETTE Assistant Director
Faithful Service
Paves
We had an amazing summer. Perhaps the best ever! Why are we so easily surprised when the Lord comes through again and again?
Before our overnight camps, we anticipate a homesick camper or two, especially on the first night. To our surprise, not one camper knocked on the director’s door after lights out! That hasn’t happened in recent memory; what a great start to the season!
The Lord gave our leaders wisdom and guidance all summer. They prayed for campers, comforting when needed, and showing love in meaningful ways. The Lord did the rest.
There were opportunities for junior leaders to learn and lead well. Having senior cabin leaders who have faithfully served over the years paved the way for the next group.
Leaders who take on the responsibility of introducing children to Jesus while modeling Christ-like lives make a lasting difference!
ESTEVAN BIBLE CAMP is about 2.5 hours southeast of Regina. www.estevanbiblecamp.ca · 306 634 8368
MANITOU LAKE BIBLE CAMP
During campfire time, a young camper shared: “This week I learned how, in the old days, they had to kill a sheep to deal with sin. But Jesus was the perfect sheep, so we don’t have to do that anymore. Now we just trust in Jesus.” I was brought to tears, knowing he’d heard the Gospel so clearly. Several campers heard and received the good news this summer!
RANGER LAKE BIBLE CAMP
“I don’t know if I’m the best person for the job,” one cabin leader told me. “That’s because there’s always ‘someone better’ out there,” I replied. “But you are the one who said yes!” Moments later, a junior cabin leader interrupted and said, “Arleen, I really look up to you. Will you mentor me?” What a great reminder that a simple yes is all God wants, not an impressive skill set or resumé!
STONEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP
One work crew camper struggled to fit in during the first week of camp. Leaders wondered if he wanted to be there. When the time came to share testimonies in the second week, this young man shared that his dad had passed away before camp. We don’t always hear our campers’ back stories, but it's always exciting to discover that camp is exactly where they need to be.
ESTEVAN BIBLE CAMP
“The
work of the cross
is sufficient for each day and every person.”
TORCH TRAIL BIBLE CAMP
The Gospel Is Enough
DANA WILLSON Summer Program Director
Iam thankful God planned for me to spend a third summer at Torch Trail Bible Camp as program director.
This year’s theme, Celebrating 75 Years of Good News, reminded me that the good news of Jesus Christ never gets old. The Gospel was enough seventy-five years ago when this camp started, and it's enough for Torch Trail today. Why? Because the work of the cross is sufficient for each day and every person.
A summer at camp is no cakewalk but I loved every moment. I loved singing Jesus Loves Me with campers, loved hearing memory verses, and loved experiencing camp life for weeks on end.
Every Friday my heart ached, knowing kids often return to broken homes and limited discipleship. Every week I reminded myself I could never care for all the campers long term; I have to trust God to hold them in His capable hands and thank Him for the short time He allowed me to love them.
Someone said, "A life saved from sin is a miracle." I witnessed multiple miracles this summer as children came to know Jesus! The quote reminds me that I serve a God who cares about details and is always faithful in the calm and in the chaos.
Hebrews 10:23, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope, without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”
TORCH TRAIL BIBLE CAMP is one hour northeast of Prince Albert. · www.torchtrail.ca · 306 428 2989
“I
Manitoba
DAUPHIN BIBLE CAMP
We gave away almost 200 Bibles this summer. A camper asked her cabin leader, “What’s a Bible?” Truly, this was an amazing opportunity to teach about God’s Word. A boy, upon discovering he could keep his new Bible, shouted, “YES!”
ROSEAU RIVER BIBLE CAMP
One returning teen camper’s first week started poorly. He did not want to be there, and had no interest in chapel or cabin devotions. But, he had to stay, and as the week progressed, became interested in chapel and scripture memorization. We even saw him reading his Bible during a skill time! Praise God!
VALLEY VIEW BIBLE CAMP
Jesus the Way Maker
MASON KEHLER Discipleship Director
Chapel was about to start when a camper asked if we could sing Way Maker. Campers frequently request favorites, and most often they are songs we already sing. I didn’t care much for the song, and thinking it was overused, didn’t want to sing it. However, because a camper made the request and the lyrics weren’t too difficult, I agreed we’d sing it at the next chapel.
I practiced the song while the chapel started to fill. Since it was the middle of the week, campers were now singing with more confidence. But I hadn’t anticipated what happened when we launched into Way Maker.
As they sang, their voices got louder and louder—not screaming, just louder—declaring God to be the way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness!
I sensed the Holy Spirit moving in our midst. Although many campers did not know God personally, they boldly proclaimed the truth that He was working in that place, turning lives around, and mending hearts in the very moment.
Although we didn’t always see God at work, He performed miracles, not only in chapel but throughout the summer.
GIMLI BIBLE CAMP is an hour north of Winnipeg. www.gimlibiblecamp.com · 204 642 5707
It's humbling and comforting to know that once you do what is asked of you, the results can be left in God’s hands. We experienced that reality often as we shared the good news this summer. One camper came with no knowledge of the Gospel. The team faithfully explained and lived out their faith. When she left, she was able to clearly explain the Gospel, even while wrestling with the cost of following Christ.
GIMLI BIBLE CAMP
DANIEL & CHELSIE
ZYLSTRA Co-Directors
G“Never underestimate His plan, even in small, day-to-day situations.”
TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP
Trusting God in New Ways
od helped us return to basics this summer by providing a young, vibrant team. Some were brand new to the camp, others had just one summer’s experience. Our programmers, fresh from year one of university, took on leadership for the first time.
This team showed us how to be fully present with the campers, trusting God all the way.
One camper, who required considerable time and patience, was placed with a brand new cabin leader. Although she tried everything she could think of to help this young girl engage with other campers and the program, she frequently asked other leaders for help.
As I served with this leader through the week, I noticed how this cabin leader praised Jesus, displaying the joy and patience He gives in difficult situations. Her care and concern encouraged the camper to become more comfortable with others, to engage in the program and chapel, and to open up, sharing her life story one on one. While building their relationship, the cabin leader showed Jesus to this girl in meaningful ways.
As God worked in and through us, our team learned to never underestimate His plan, even in small, day-to-day situations.
TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP is half an hour southwest of Boissevain, MB. www.turtlemountainbiblecamp.org · 204 747 2587
Seth Briggs
Meet the Field Directors
With forty-two camps and community ministries across the country, One Hope Canada’s field directors provide year-round support and encouragement for frontline ministry workers. In this new feature, Canada’s Hope introduces Seth Briggs (Saskatchewan) and Cory Vail (Atlantic). Please pray for them as they serve in these important roles!
Cory Vail
What is your ministry background and how long have you served with One Hope Canada?
Seth: After completing a Master of Science in microbiology, and getting ready to begin a PhD, I sensed God’s strong call to youth ministry. I served in this capacity in Saskatoon for six years before becoming executive director at Manitou Lake Bible Camp (where I had served as a teen and young adult). My wife, Lesley, our four children, and I arrived at Manitou in the fall of 2011. That chapter ended this fall when I accepted the role of Saskatchewan field director.
Cory: I had a blast serving at Camp Silversides in Alberta as a 19-year-old university student. Returning the next summer, I served for a couple of weeks as a volunteer cabin leader. Fast forward several years. As regional director of Awana International Canada, I spoke at most of One Hope Canada’s Atlantic camps while pastoring a small church. The opportunity arose in 2021 to join One Hope Canada as Atlantic field director. After a year of discernment, prayer, and discussion with my wife, Emily, we felt it was the right move for us and our six (now seven) children.
A seatmate on the plane asks what you do for work. How would you answer?
Seth: I work for a Canadian evangelical ministry that brings God’s good news to thousands each year, primarily through camp ministry. My role is to support and oversee camps in Saskatchewan, to cooperate with our national team in providing resources so camps can spend quality time sharing that good news with children and youth who wouldn’t otherwise hear it.
Cory: I’d say I work with Bible camps in Atlantic Canada that focus on sharing Jesus’ love with children and youth.
How have you seen God work through camp ministry?
Seth: Most vivid is my memory of growth in our summer teams at Manitou Lake Bible Camp. A longtime camper was baptized; she wasn’t from a Christian home but we watched her come to understand the Gospel and place her faith in Jesus. Growing by leaps and bounds, she is excited to serve God.
Cory: When I was the camp speaker, a cabin leader invited me to join his group for cabin time (devotions) on the last night of camp. Campers shared how much camp meant to them, how much they had learned about God, and how they wanted to follow Him. Cabin leaders shared their testimonies, including a clear Gospel presentation. As the boys shared personal struggles, they spent time praying and caring for one another. I am grateful for such holy moments, because they reinforce why we do what we do.
What is your go-to form of relaxation when you’re not field directing?
Seth: Fishing is the short answer, but really, anything outdoors. I enjoy hunting and golf.
Cory: I like watching Marvel, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings with my boys and playing the Legend of Zelda series on Nintendo Switch. It’s fun to pass on some fandom!
What surprises you most about camp ministry?
Seth: I’m rarely surprised anymore because we encounter so many situations and people. What’s interesting is the variety of people that camp reaches. From kids who rarely go outside to the avid outdoor type, all find a place and can be impacted by camp experiences.
Cory: How God sustains and provides for those on the frontlines. It places our mission’s core value—being desperately dependent on God—on full display.
What are you most looking forward to in this role? What do you most enjoy?
Seth: I’m most looking forward to being there for my team. I hope to encourage, support, laugh, and cry with them as they create opportunities to share the Gospel and make it understandable. It is not an easy job and I always appreciated my field director doing this for me
Cory: I love connecting with our missionary family. It’s great to work alongside such a commited team, to be in this together. As much as I want to encourage them, I find them a huge encouragement to me.
What is your favourite scripture passage, and why?
Seth: Ephesians 2:8-10 is a grounding passage about how we are saved, by grace through faith. I find great comfort in this, knowing salvation is not based on my performance. But, because of that salvation, I can do what we were originally created to do—serving God well.
Cory: Galatians 2:20. “I have been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me, and the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me.” I love this verse because it reminds me that my identity is in Christ, that He is my source of strength and power. It is Him living His life through me for His glory.
How can we pray for you?
Seth: I need wisdom to navigate this new role, and prayer for opportunities to encourage and support those on the frontlines!
Cory: Pray for God’s grace, that I will be an encouragement and helper to those I serve in ministry. Please pray God will sustain me, my wife, Emily, and our children.
Baked oatmeal—does it deserve to be ranked as the number one camp breakfast food?
Seth: It certainly competes for top place. It’s difficult to replicate the quality of baked oatmeal at home. Perhaps it’s the dining hall atmosphere charged with the energy of 100 campers? It solidifies its rank as number one when paired with bacon!
Cory: I like baked oatmeal but my favorite camp breakfast is french toast and bacon.
and youth.
Ontario
RAINY RIVER DISTRICT MINISTRIES
The theme of this summer’s Northern Lights Bible FUN! day camps was Jesus Is My Answer. Using Jesus’ I Am statements, we presented lessons, verses, songs, and crafts to reinforce these amazing truths about our Lord: I Am the Bread of Life. I Am the Light of the World. I Am the Door. I Am the Good Shepherd. I Am the Resurrection and the Life. I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life. I Am the Vine. I Am the Alpha and Omega. Please pray that each of these awesome attributes will continue pointing impressionable young lives to a saving faith in Christ!
SONSHINE BIBLE CLUBS
SONshine Bible Club, now held in ten schools, is making a significant impact across the Algoma district in northeastern Ontario, bridging the gap between summer camp and yearround spiritual growth. We operate in school libraries after classes, bringing the Gospel to children and helping them walk with Jesus throughout the school year. Churches are invited to adopt local schools and start their own clubs. This spreads the Gospel and creates lasting connections between churches and their neighborhoods.
WILLOW SPRINGS CAMP
Eric had special needs, far more than we were prepared to accommodate. Our team was discouraged because this camper could not participate like most others. Rather than sending him home, we prayed for wisdom and ideas. Eric stayed the full week and on the final day said, “That’s my cabin leader. I love him, because he looked after me.”
"Everything at camp—the fun and the serious—centers around Jesus.”
Even When It Rains
KATIE ELLIOTT Interim Director
On Tuesday evening during our second week of camp, our campfire session took place in the chapel due to poor weather. As the rain poured down, campers and leaders squeezed together on the floor.
I explained how everything at camp—the fun and the serious—centers around Jesus. He is the source of everything good. After opening prayer, I invited three cabin leaders to share how the Gospel had transformed their hearts.
Ben talked about his upbringing in the church, expressing genuine thanks for growing up in a Gospel-centered home.
Erin shared that understanding the perfect finished work of Christ made her faith in Him secure. She emphasized that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.
Ava talked about the importance of taking time to be still and listen for the Lord’s voice through His Word. She encouraged campers to seek Jesus.
As our evening drew to a close, we sang the song Jesus Came to Earth by Sovereign Grace; it clearly highlights the Gospel message. I invited campers to stay after the campfire to chat with cabin leaders; that night six campers professed faith in Jesus, passing from spiritual death to life.
We rejoice that God can do abundantly more than we ask or imagine.
GALILEAN BIBLE CAMP is about 15 minutes north of Blind River, ON. www.galileanbiblecamp.ca · 705 356 7961
GALILEAN BIBLE CAMP
"We saw God’s love change lives and meet deep needs. ”
TERESA WARD Camp Director
Trusting God in Tough Times
Iwonder if every camp director thinks at the end of the season, “That was a tough one!” While this summer had its challenges, we have much to celebrate. Our incredible team of twelve grew in faith, showed God’s love, worked hard and well together, and served God wholeheartedly. We praise the Lord for each one!
The challenges included leader shortages, with team members often doing double duty. God provided—when on the verge of closing a cabin due to a shortage, one of our leaders asked a friend to help. He jumped in, working one week and returning for another. Praise the Lord!
We saw God’s love change lives and meet deep needs. Children from three families in crisis attended through our campership fund.
While one family recovered from Dad’s death, camp gave the two children the recovery and support they needed.
A single parent mom could be with her dying father because her children were well cared for at camp.
A group of siblings attended camp while the family cared for their terminally ill mother. During that time, Mom required emergency surgery, and the parents came to camp to take a family photo, enabling the kids to say what they thought might be goodbye. As of this writing, Mom is still battling cancer and growing in her relationship with God. The children are seeing her faith practiced daily.
It was a tough summer but God knew our needs and provided abundantly.
MONARCH BIBLE CAMP is a mobile camp ministry based in Fenelon Falls, ON. www.monarchbiblecamp.com · 705 887 3625
MONARCH BIBLE CAMP
CAMP DES Î LES
Marisa and friend Beth had attended several camps in the past, but this summer their parents sent them to a Christian camp. At first they were reserved, but showed great interest in the spiritual truths they heard. Both girls had many questions, accepted Bibles (carrying them like precious treasures), and highlighted verses. Most amazing was our team’s effort to share Jesus with them. By week’s end, Marisa became a Christian.
GASPÉSIE COMMUNITY MINISTRY
It was a night to remember as twenty teens stood to declare their commitment to live for Jesus. What a great reminder that God is still at work in teens who desperately need hope! He is transforming lives. Many, who chose to remain seated, later reached out to cabin leaders to talk about their standing before God. While campers were impacted by the faith they saw in others, we witnessed how one small act of faith can multiply in ways we least expect.
GRATUIT!
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“As
each ripple spread wider and wider, I recalled stories from this summer."
The Ripple Effect
JENNIFER DALLAIRE Follow-up & Discipleship Coordinator
Iwatched as the rock skipped over the water, spreading ripples across the calm lake. As each ripple spread wider and wider, I recalled stories from this summer, of those outside our immediate camp circle who were impacted by camp.
I thought of the camp's next-door neighbors, who expressed concerns about traffic and cars speeding past their cottage. Being sensitive to their request, we placed team members along the road to slow incoming traffic. Our neighbors later wrote to express thanks, to let us know how touched they were by our initiative. Ripple one.
I thought of a lady in Walmart asking our cooks about their three heavily laden grocery carts. When they mentioned Camp Livingstone, she quickly gave them fifty dollars. Her children had gone to camp years before and it had impacted her profoundly. Ripple two.
I thought of the camp nurse, in town running errands, overhearing a camper singing camp songs in a store, the sound echoing throughout the building. Ripple three.
I thought of the many campers who came this summer because a grandparent or parent had attended. Now it was their turn. Ripple four, five, six…
Seeds sown, intentional acts of kindness, loving conversations because of our Savior—only God knows how these ripples will impact one person, one family, or a whole community for eternity.
CAMP LIVINGSTONE is about 20 minutes south of Magog, QC. www.camplivingstone.ca · 819 843 2019
CAMP LIVINGSTONE
“It was inspiring to see a child studying the Bible at break.”
BLOMIDON BIBLE CAMP
Making A True Difference
CALEB CHENG Camp Director
This was my first summer as camp director. What a joy to see the Gospel’s impact in action!
With more campers than usual—especially during the youth retreat camp—and given our limited equipment and resources, we are grateful to God that the camps ran so smoothly.
There were many memorable moments. I've always thought camps were great for fun and games, but it was inspiring to see a child studying the Bible at break and asking tough questions. I realized how important it is to be involved in a ministry that makes a true difference in young lives.
We had campers of several nationalities. A week after camp, I met the parents of one such camper on the street. They gave me a big hug, said thanks for the camp, and related how much their daughter enjoyed it. Since camp, she prays before meals and bedtime and reads her Bible.
When asked how I felt about camp this year, I say, “It doesn't really matter how I feel, but how each camper feels about God.” I hope each one remembers more than food, games, and songs. I hope each one experiences a deep conviction that Jesus is their Savior throughout their lives.
BLOMIDON BIBLE CAMP is in the Annapolis Valley, overlooking Nova Scotia’s Minas Basin. · www.blomidon.camp · 902 582 3367
Atlantic Canada
CAPE BRETON BIBLE CAMP
This summer presented a unique challenge when we had campers who did not speak English. As we worked around language barriers, we learned that homesickness, love, and laughter are the same in any language. Using picture Bibles, we shared Jesus despite the language struggle. One child wanted to go home because he wasn’t accustomed to Canadian food; our cooks went above and beyond to prepare a Chinese meal. He stayed for the rest of the week, and returned the following week, showing an interest in understanding The Action Bible.
MIRAMICHI BIBLE CAMP
A camper who attended five weeks of day camp told me: “Angela! Guess what? My mom and I pray every night now, before I go to bed!” The family does not attend church regularly, but her experince at MBC impacted this girl’s life in a big way. God is changing families, starting at camp!
NEWFOUND LIFE BIBLE CAMP
Russell (our co-director) came to Jesus as a young boy when the Gospel was presented through Pilgrim's Progress. So it thrilled us this summer to watch our leadership team put their Gospel-centered training into action by dramatizing Bunyan's great story, creatively and effectively sharing the Gospel during missionary story time. Campers were captivated by the visualized journey of Pilgrim from the City of Destruction on his way to the Cross and the Celestial City.
SANDY COVE BIBLE CAMP
Darcy came to camp last summer from a home devoid of Jesus and the Word. There she heard the Gospel and saw cabin leaders who truly followed Jesus. She took a Bible home to read and think about. Returning to camp in 2024, she again heard the Gospel, read her Bible, and had spiritual conversations that beckoned for a response. Thursday night, on her own, she decided to trust Jesus as Savior. The next day, her joyful face reflected that decision!
“This week really changed my relationship with God.”
BEN LAWSON Camp Director
TPlanting Gospel Seeds
his summer our team was reminded of how important it is to plant Gospel seeds, even though it may be a long time before we see fruit produced.
Nate started as a five-year-old day camper in 2017. He came year after year and in total, would have heard Gospel presentations in forty-five chapel sessions, sung numerous Gospel-centered songs, memorized scripture, and heard Bible stories emphasizing salvation as the Bible’s central theme.
This summer, as the chapel speaker taught about God’s holiness and the good news of Jesus, the group leader noticed Nate paying close attention. Following the lesson, he asked Nate what he was learning. “I learned I am a sinner, and that Jesus is my Savior!” With tears in his eyes he added, “This week really changed my relationship with God.”
After eight years of hard work by speakers and cabin leaders, each planting Gospel seeds, Nate had placed his faith in Jesus. He received a Bible with a personal note from his cabin leader, a lasting reminder of what happened in his young life at Hampton Bible Camp this summer.
HAMPTON BIBLE CAMP is about half an hour northeast of Saint John, NB. · www.hamptonbiblecamp.ca · 506 832 4669
HAMPTON BIBLE CAMP
in Serving Encouragment
Last spring, Gary and Christina Long, Sandy Cove Bible Camp directors, along with the camp’s program manager Amy Kaufman, attended a fundraiser at our church. During their presentation, they mentioned the need for summer help in the kitchen.
My wife, Dixie, reminded me that I had helped in Hampton Bible Camp’s kitchen years before, so we found ourselves at Sandy Cove.
I was a little apprehensive, but Christina soon put us at ease. She’s a great leader and we were quite happy to help in the kitchen for a week. She spent considerable time in planning and preparing nourishing meals; there was always enough for second helpings!
Days can be long in the kitchen, starting with breakfast and ending with evening snacks, but they flew by quickly. No matter how busy, there was always time during the day to chat with campers and leaders. And every evening we listened to the chapel speaker and sang with the campers.
I was impressed with the team’s maturity and their willingness to help with dishwashing and cleanup. It was encouraging to see so many young people willing to spend a summer serving the Lord.
Thanks to facility improvements—made possible by supporters in recent years—our accommodation was like staying in a hotel! Gary mentioned the need for a replacement gas stove so that’s an item for prayer.
What a blessing to serve with the Sandy Cove team; my wife and I would gladly do it again!
RON FORSYTHE National Board Member, NB
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I hope I have a God dream tonight, those are good!
Dear Jesus, thank you that we didn’t die out with the cavemen.
"I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE! I'VE NEVER VALUED COMMUNICATION SO MUCH!"
(Shouted by a camper halfway through a meal where campers were challenged to eat without talking.)
I have never felt as loved as I have here. This week I decided I want to be a missionary.
2024 Summer QUOTE WALL
What?! The Bible talks about dinosaurs and dragons?! Where?
I was afraid I wouldn’t make friends, but I have one today! Did God really mean to make all bugs?
I want to have God’s way be my way.
While playing a game: “I can’t revive you. If I was Jesus I could.”
When you ask Jesus into your heart you get unsinned.
Cabin Leader in Training: "Wow, that was a perfect high five."
Camper: "That is the power of JESUS!"
My favorite thing God created is HOTDOGS!
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