Many forms of Bible Camp . . . but the same Gospel

The children’s ministries supported by SGA partners across the former Soviet Union—Immanuel’s Child at Christmas, Orphans Reborn year-round, and Summer Bible Camps—all have a special place in my heart. I know they have a special place in the hearts of our partners as evidenced by their generous giving. Above all, these ministries have a special place in the hearts of the faithful churches we serve.

Our brothers and sisters in the churches take the Lord’s attitude toward children to heart. He said . . . Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these (Matthew 19:14). They realize that reaching children with the Gospel is vitally important to the future of the church should the Lord tarry in His coming. They are the next generation of pastors, youth ministers, music ministers, children’s workers, women’s ministry leaders, and evangelists. They seek every opportunity to involve young children in the worship services, sharing songs, reading poetry—some of it written by the children themselves.

Sunday school is key, as is Vacation Bible School during the summer. And by God’s grace, we have been blessed to see the fruit of these ministries time and time again. Perhaps no greater blessing is seen than a young boy or girl reached with the Gospel, for example during a camp ministry, then grow up to lead other children to Christ just as they were reached.

Summer Bible Camp season runs from the beginning of June until the end of August. That is two months from now, and preparations are already in the works. The forms the camps take will vary. Some will be true camp sessions at an actual facility where the sessions run for a week. They might take the form of an excursion or rafting trip down a river, with camping on the riverbank or lake shore. Due to local ministry conditions, others might have to be held in a playground or on church grounds as a day camp outreach.

But no matter the venue, the goal is the same—to lead boys and girls to faith in Christ. Please join us in praying in advance for this camp season. We are asking God to enable us to reach an even greater number of children this year with the love of Christ. Thank you in advance!

For our Savior,

Michael Johnson
President