Rebuilding A Christ-Centered Camp For Kids

Starting in 2023, Camp Del-Haven made the hard decision to dismantle its historic summer camp program when it became evident that our mission needed to change in light of the turmoil of our surrounding sin-soaked culture. Unlike far too many churches and ministries today, we were not willing to compromise our Gospel message to find friendship with the world. Thus, we began the difficult task of completely overhauling our camp ministry by stepping out in faith, knowing that the Lord is leading us through the darkness to the sunrise of a better day where we can more fully proclaim the Glory of Jesus Christ throughout our dedicated campground.

To be sure, the Lord has provided since that time and our camp mission is slowly finding new footing with His help. Though we still pray that the Lord will provide sufficient workers to oversee a weekly camp experience for children ages 6 through 12, we have shifted to an equally-important focus on needful kids and their families. Prior to each summer season, we are currently sending out invitations to area families to come out to our Camp Del-Haven facilities to experience a Family Camp Day that features a downsized version of our former camp week activities. At no cost whatsoever, they can fish — swim — do crafts — enjoy the playground — hike the camp paths — and of course hear the Gospel.

Each of our day sessions begin with a time of Singing and Bible Study at the Del-Haven Chapel. Afterwards, we make a quick stop at the Flagpole for the Pledge Of Allegiance and perhaps a few exercises to invigorate the mind and body. We then proceed to the Shelter House for a craft/nature study project. Lunch is next on the agenda, but not before giving everyone a chance to ring the old Dinner Bell. Then it’s time for every camper’s favorite activity, SWIMMING at our pool — or for the more adventurous, Fishing and/or Boating at our small lake. And last but not least, our day session wouldn’t be complete without starting up the Campfire to roast Marshmallows.

Of course, our one true purpose in all this outdoor activity is the outreach of our Bible Study Time where we are able to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ — not just to the kids, but to their parents and caregivers as well. Over the past few years, we have had some interesting and — it is believed — profitable discussions during this added camp ministry reality. Indeed we have gathered some very positive results and feedback from the families that have participated. Everyone seems delighted with what we are doing and what they are experiencing.

We are excited, therefore, with how the Lord might use this camp ministry now and in the days to come for His glory. Over the past seven decades, we have witnessed how the Bible-based spiritual purpose of Camp Del-Haven has been clearly used by the Lord. Just look through our website to see why we have this great hope. View the pictures and read the testimonies of what the Lord has done through Del-Haven in the lives of children.

Indeed, we pray every day for the Lord’s gracious provision to sustain this small Gospel ministry. And we pray that you, too, will be spiritually moved to pray with us — and for us — as we endeavor to rebuild our weekly summer camp program for the children. Pray for Del-Haven as we seek His leading — His Great Shepherding of His ministry — in fulfilling the provision of a truly quickened and spiritually awakened staff to be effectually used by His Holy Spirit to fill the various positions of cabin and camp program leaders.

Bottom line, in order to rebuild a larger summer camp program, we need male and female bond-servants of the Lord who have been born from above by the Spirit and the Word — and who love the Lord and His Pure Gospel Truth. This is the character qualifications we seek, along with a genuine love for the souls of children. We need this in order to be able to conduct an expanded camp ministry unto the glory, only, of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Please join us in praying for the addition of these essential workers and partners in ministry, and thanking God for giving us the ability to offer our Family Camp Day in the meantime. And finally, if you or your church would like to recommend a child (or family) for our current summer camp programs, volunteer to help us, or make a donation to our ministry, please contact us HERE.