In early August, Sierra Vista United Methodist Church’s Children’s Ministries hosted its annual children’s camp at Butman Camp and Retreat Center in Merkel, Texas. This year, middle-school youth were also invited to participate. As a result, 93 elementary and middle-school kids–as well as 34 staff–enjoyed five days of fun, fellowship, and faith formation in the Big Country.

As a result of the generosity of campers’ families, Sierra Vista’s Finance Committee and congregation, the West District, as well as the campers’ own churches, 59 San Angelo kids, 14 kids from the Kerrville area, nine children from Robert Lee, eight kids from Miles, 2 campers from Bronte, and one from Santa Anna were able to study and learn about living “The Jesus Way.”

Those youth and adults who took off work and dedicated their own valuable time and love to the smallest in God’s kingdom were also pivotal to camp’s success: Kyle Arnold;

Susie Bonner; Amber Bosworth; Tanya Campen; Jan Chitsey; Haley Ditmore; Stephanie Dobbs; Riley Duke; Inga Elliot; Will Felts; Angel Flores; Feliciano Giovanni; Tina Glass; Carson Green; Sandy Harris; Bailey Harvey; Holly Herrington; Holden Kohles; Kendis Leech; Karlee Lindy; Rey Manuel; Caitlin and Caroline Marshall; Gracie McMillan; Jillian Moore; Avery and Jaron Ochoa; Jean Ann Owens; Brandon Sabotka; Stacy Sprinkle; Matt Tafoya; Stan Whites; and Tucker Young. Blessings and thanks!

Also, dates for next summer’s camp have already been set: August 4 through 8. Mark your calendars!

Interested in serving on a camp design team or starting a camp in your district? Contact Rev. Dr. Tanya Campen, tcampen@riotexas.org.

Written by Kelly Duke