Camp meeting presents an opportunity—in the busy, noisy world we live in—to refresh the relationships that are most important to us. Over the years, Indiana Camp Meeting has held a special place in the hearts of its attendees. From exceptional children’s programming to inspirational messages and seminars, there are many occasions provided to help us grow in our walk with God, build life-long friendships, and strengthen our families.
Teresa Mathis, from Bloomington, Indiana, shares what Indiana Camp Meeting has meant to her.
"Camp meeting brings back years of wonderful memories. My earliest memory of camp meeting is loading the car with everything needed for one week and heading to the little town of Cicero, Indiana.
"There were rows of connected, small, cozy cabins, minus the luxury of running water or indoor bathrooms. Our family shared one of the small cabins with Mary Nickless. We always hurried to unload and settle in, so we could arrive early to the first meeting.
"Of course, there was the excitement over the big book sale at the start of camp meeting. Everyone wanted a front row seat. We could hardly carry all of the bargains from the sale. Each evening we enjoyed reading all the new books. New books still share the bed-time hour.
"Days and evenings were filled with exciting stories about Jesus, campfires, new friends, and singing.
"Camp meeting has allowed my family the opportunity to spend quality time together far away from the distractions of the world. We have enjoyed waking up to peaceful mornings down by the cows in the camping area. We have weathered many a severe storm in that old tent, but we know God's protection is ever present.
"Years later, the campus has changed and the cabins are long gone, but the tradition of attending camp meeting has carried on to my own children.
"I personally have experienced spiritual growth and a renewed commitment to the Lord. I am always rejuvenated mentally, physically, and spiritually during the week. God's blessings have always been exceedingly abundant.
"As I think of camp meeting, I can only imagine how wonderful Heaven will be as we reunite with friends and loved ones. We can spend all of eternity sitting and learning at the feet of Jesus.Problems and heartaches will be long passed."
Carving out time to attend camp meeting might be a challenge, but it will be well worth it. This year we will be challenged by Barry Black, chaplain of the U.S. Senate, and Walter Wright, our Union president. Best-selling authors, Kim Johnson and Lee Venden, will deepen our understanding of who Jesus is. Hans Diehl will motivate us to take better care of our body temple. Pedro Perez will connect with your young people and help them see how a life with Jesus is better than anything this world has to offer.
Seminars will be presented throughout the week on a variety of topics, presented by Hans Diehl, Kim Johnson, Lee Venden, Jose Vasquez, Ron and Colleen Kelly, and others.
In addition, on Sabbath, June 18, programming is planned for Indiana's Hispanic constituents.
As we look forward to this special week, June 12 to 18, 2005, pray for the Lord to pour out a special blessing on our camp meeting. May we all be "Transformed in Christ."
Gary Thurber is the Indiana Conference president.
