Camp Agape, Benton, TN

God's grace

2012-01-11T12:37:00.003-05:00

But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:4-10 (NKJV)

University Christian School

2011-12-22T13:29:00.004-05:00

"And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."

Matthew 25:40 (NKJV)

For the past several years, University Christian School has been the first "official" group of the year at Camp Agape. We are very excited to have them return May 2012! For those of you who have been to the Camp in the summer, you have been on the receiving end of the hard work of the UCS Senior Class. When they come, they come to help prepare the Camp for the other groups coming later in the year.

In 2011, they were split into teams; one team helped put some of the benches in at Jericho's Chapel, another team was painting in First Baptist Cabin, and yet another team was helping to clean dorms and cabins preparing for you.

After working hard at the Camp, they then moved on to the Copper Basin Crisis Center and helped Mr. Al and Mrs. Margaret with whatever tasks were needed. In the evenings, they spent time visiting and providing worship service at the senior adult neighborhoods.

Thank you for your service, University Christian School,

and thank you for showing

the love of the Lord.

Bradley Association - Operation Christmas Home Build

2011-12-20T14:42:00.001-05:00

Bradley Association - Christmas Home Build

Dear Camp Agape

2011-12-19T12:59:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to tell you how excited I am to lead our Senior class again this year back to Camp Agape for their Senior Mission Trip. This will be the 7th consecutive year that UCS has come. I don't know what it is about that mountain, but there is a special anointing there. I've always said our job is just to get the teenagers to that mountain and God does the rest. I've seen so many lives changed in just a few days each year we have come! Your place is clean, safe, and absolutely the best place for this kind of trip. I look forward to seeing you in May with this years group!

Ed Trim

President & CEO

Pennington & Trim Alarms, Inc.

His eye is on the sparrow!

2011-11-21T15:02:00.004-05:00

I had a visitor in the office this afternoon. This visitor has been here before but I am always surprised! I wish I had the camera to show you. This was a little sparrow that flew in when I walked to the mail box. Have you ever looked closely at a sparrow? The eyes, the color, the feathers, the tiny feet - it is amazing to see the strength in something so fragile. Only our Creator could have come up with such a design!

"Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows."

Matthew 10:28-31(NASB)

1 Peter 5:6-8 (NKJV)

2011-10-27T13:59:00.002-04:00

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 5:6-8 NKJV).

The Prayer Garden at Faith Pointe in full bloom. What a wonderful reminder of God's sustaining grace and power.

Thank you to Peter, summer missionary, for sharing your pictures!

Children's Camp 2011 - Friday celebration!!!

2011-10-14T14:54:00.004-04:00

Friday, the last day of Children's Camp, we had the joy and privilege of being part of baptism service for one of the children!

There was quite a procession of people and cars from the dining hall around the Lake to Faith Pointe. One of our local pastors attended and had the opportunity to meet with the child's parents. Others from the church and community have since reached out to disciple and encourage the family.

September / October 2011 Camp Newsletter

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Sept-Oct. 2011

Children's Camp 2011 - projects

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Traditionally, each year during Children's Camp, the boys will make a craft for the girls and the girls will make a craft for the boys. They will present these crafts to each other on Friday. By combining the two crafts, they help each other make a better craft to take home.

This year, the boys built wooden boxes and the girls sewed the box liners; when they were put together, each child had a picnic basket to take home.

The fabric that was used had actually been donated for Children's Camp three years ago. Penny, Children's Camp Director, does a lot of her own sewing and gets much of her fabric on-line. Penny contacted Jubilee Homespun to see about getting a donation of scraps of fabric. Much to her surprise, Penny received a large box of fabric remnants from Jubilee Homespun ( http://jubileehomespun.com/ ) and her supplier!

The wood came as a donation from North Etowah Baptist Church after they renovated their educational building.

God is amazing in how He provides for our needs! If you would like to be a part of God's provision, please contact us with what He has laid on your heart or to request a Needs List.

Children's Camp 2011 - projects

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The "BIG" project on the last day - everyone worked together to build a traditional sukkah, or tabernacle for the Feast of the Tabernacle.

Before beginning the project outside, the children made an edible sukkah out of pretzels, graham crackers, gold fish crackers, and icing.

Everyone painted banners for the Feasts; each picture represented a different Feast that was studied through the week.

The younger girls learned a traditional Hebrew dance to the tune of "The Mighty One of Israel"; the older girls learned a dance to the tune of "Days of Elijah". Thank you to everyone who took the time to make the wrap-around skirts for the girls!

Children's Camp 2011

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There were 1,046 volunteer hours that were logged during Children's Camp week at Camp Agape. These hours did not include the time for preparing Bible study, crafts, and other activities for the children.

Children's Camp 2011 focused on the Biblical Feasts; the final Feast celebrated was the Feast of the Tabernacle - this Feast actually started at sundown on October 12!

Throughout the week each child painted a banner along with other projects. The top picture shows three of the boys along with Camp Director Chris Stewart working on their banners.

The middle picture shows some of the boys at The Rock for their worship and Bible study time. The girls had their worship and Bible study at Calvary's Hill near the tent area.

Children's Camp 2011

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"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place."

2 Chronicles 7:14-15

The children were called to worship every morning by the sound of a traditional Jewish shofar.

Morning worship was held under the shade trees outside of the dormitory rooms. It consisted of prayer, scripture reading and memorization, and lots of singing. The girls also worked on a traditional Jewish dance to the tune of "Days of Elijah".

Mark 1:1-5 (NKJV)

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Faith Pointe has been the site of numerous baptisms this summer. We have had the joy of witnessing baptisms with Retreat groups, Missions Camp groups, Children's Camp and local PCBA churches.

Praise the LORD for the work HE has done!

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the Prophets:

“ Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.”
“ The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

‘ Prepare the way of the LORD;
Make His paths straight.’”

John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Then all the land of Judea, and those from Jerusalem, went out to him and were all baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins.

Aug/Sept Ministry Report for Broadcaster

2011-08-17T16:31:00.001-04:00

Aug-Sept 2011 Camp Ministry Report

Riley - Summer Missionary in Training

2011-07-20T14:15:00.005-04:00

Riley has been a part of
Camp Agape since his first time at Children's Camp at age 6. He has been a teen buddy for Children's Camp for a few years. This past year he has felt called to summer missions at Camp Agape.

Riley used to think a missionary had to know the Bible cover to cover. He has since learned that planting a seed can be by the simplest action.

One of the activities that sticks out in his mind this summer is his first day at the Ocoee River Take-Out Watering Hole ministry. He had the opportunity to observe Chris Stewart share the gospel using the 'Ud bracelet. He has really enjoyed getting to know and work with the other summer missionaries.

One of Riley's favorite verses is

Joshua 1:9 (NASB)

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Hill Street Baptist - Worship at Jubilee Stage

2011-07-14T14:50:00.004-04:00

Hill Street Baptist came in to Camp for youth retreat and asked if the summer missionaries would do their evening worship. The missionaries' response was a resounding YES!

The Watering Hole Ministry

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Summer Mission staff setting up for ministry at the Ocoee River take-out point.

Camp Agape sets up a tent at the take-out point. When the rafts unload, the river guides direct rafters over to the tent where they are given the choice of water and kool-aid.

While the rafters are getting some refreshment, the guides and workers are able to safely load the rafts onto the buses and/or trailers.

The take-out point is in the Cherokee National Forest. As a result, we are unable to begin conversations with people regarding their walk with the LORD. However, the 'Ud bracelets that many people and groups have sent are a conversation-starter.

The different colors of the beads tell the story of the Bible in the seven beads. When people ask what bracelets mean, we are able to share the gospel.

The cold kool-aid and water are a welcome site to the folks coming off the river!

The coolers are set up and ready for business - just waiting for the shade of the tent and the cups

2011-07-07T16:52:00.002-04:00

Chris, Lindsey & Camp Team,

Thank you so much for your generosity & support! We greatly appreciate you sharing your Camp with us & giving us a place to go last week. Thanks to you, we were able to continue serving Polk County youth & their families. We appreciate all you do for our community!

Cindy Hooker

Boys & Girls Clubs

Benton, TN

2011-07-07T16:35:00.003-04:00

Dear Chris and all the body of Christ that makes Camp Agape such a beautiful retreat and light to the world,

You have blessed us more than you can know with your inspirational teaching (who knew Leviticus could be so interesting?), servant attitudes, and happy hearts. You are, indeed, the aroma of Christ. Even though we were only "assigned" Nichole and Andrew, we enjoyed getting to know James through a wonderful hike, Peter on the van and at the Watering Hole, Kacee on the van (Happy Birthday again!) and listening to Brian's "critter tales". Susan just glows - thanks for that. We only wish we could have spent more time with Christopher. He was such a joy last year!

We hope our paths cross again in this life. If not, we'll see you at the wedding feast!

Siloam Baptist Church

Christopher - Summer Missionary in Training

2011-07-06T14:02:00.003-04:00

If you have been to Camp Agape, you may recognize this young man. Christopher has been very involved with the Camp Agape ministry since his dad became Camp Director. He could be seen helping out in various parts of the Camp.

This year we are blessed to have him as a Summer Missionary in Training. Christopher likes being able to serve people and has really enjoyed working at the different mission sites. His favorites have been the Prayer Hikes and the Watering Hole on the Ocoee River.

One of his favorite memories so far this year has been the day the summer staff mulched the new worship area at the front of the Camp. He has appreciated how everyone has worked together as one unit and not as a group of different people.

Christopher has been thinking and praying on his future and is considering a career in media. If you would like to see one of his projects, go to sctreehouseproductions.weebly.com.

One of Christopher's favorite verses is 1 Peter 2:9 (NASB)

"But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;"

James - summer missionary

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James is currently a student at Co-Lin Community College in Mississippi where he is pursuing a degree in General Studies. He is waiting on God's direction for his career path but isn't letting the grass grow under his feet in the meantime!

James is an active member of the Baptist Student Union at Co-Lin. As a matter of fact, he was looking to do summer missions in a camp environment and found Camp Agape through the BSU. We are thankful and blessed that God led him here.

James would like to thank the BSU director and everyone else who has supported him in his mission.

One of James' favorite verses is John15:13 (NASB)

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends."

Polk County News reports of downtown prayer walk

2011-07-06T12:56:00.002-04:00

Polk County News - June 22, 2011

Volume CXXVIII Number 25

Glory Days Student Summer Camp 2011

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Psalm 24

The King of Glory Entering Zion.

A Psalm of David.The earth is the LORD’S, and all it contains, The world, and those who dwell in it. For He has founded it upon the seas And established it upon the rivers. Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood And has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the LORD And righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of those who seek Him, Who seek Your face—even Jacob.

Selah.

Lift up your heads, O gates, And be lifted up, O ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in! Who is the King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, The LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O gates, And lift them up, O ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in! Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory.

Selah.

Psalm 24 was the Word that came to pastor Chris Sheppard when Glory Days came into being. Chris and his team have been coming to Camp Agape for Retreat since 2003. The goal is to leave the distractions of the world and devote the time to seeking God's face, hearing God's heart and obeying God's voice.

Glory Days 2011's theme was Loving God and Loving People in our Jerusalem. They focused on the two great commandments in Matthew 22:37-40. This year, the folks from Glory Days participated in mission opportunities during the week at Camp Agape. They showed God's love to the people around the area by visiting the Nursing Home, prayer walking the downtown area, prayer hiking the trails in the forest, distributing water/kool-aid and 'Ud bracelets at the rafting take-out point on the Ocoee River, working with the Benton Boys and Girls Club, working with Angel Wings Day Care, and helping with projects around Camp Agape.

What a blessing they were to so many!!

If you would like more information regarding Glory Days, check out their website at http://ascendthehill.com/

Kacee - Summer Sojourner

2011-06-24T14:41:00.004-04:00

Kacee comes to us from the great state of Oklahoma. She recently graduated from high school and is planning to attend Oklahoma Baptist University in the fall. She is considering a degree in Mathematics or Biblical Studies.

She is praying about what God wants her to do with her life.

Kacee had gone on a week-long mission trip with her youth group last summer. Earlier in the year she felt the need to focus more on God than herself during the summer and she applied through NAMB as a summer sojourner. We are blessed to have Kacee serving the LORD with Camp Agape this summer.

During her time at Camp, Micah 7:7 has become very important to her:

"But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the LORD;
I will wait for the God of my salvation.
My God will hear me."

Oak Grove Baptist, Benton - Youth VBS 2011

2011-06-22T16:16:00.003-04:00

One of the local PCBA churches used the Camp for the youth VBS. What a surprise when staff went in to Hammons Hall and found this poster!

Thank you, Oak Grove! It was a joy and blessing to read the comments.

Sammi - Thanks for making moments at this Camp possible. God bless you.

Whitney - John 3:16 Thank you so much for letting us use the Camp this week!

Lindsey - Thank you so much for allowing our church to use this facility. It's people like you that make it possible for youth groups like ours to have a place to come to grow closer to God and closer to each other. May God Bless you...

Thank you for letting us come and stay here to study our Bible lesson

Vacation Bible School was amazing! I had a wonderful time

Arianna - Thank you for all you do

We love you all so much - thank you for allowing us to enjoy this beautiful place set aside for God.

Thank yall very much!! JESUS LOVES YOU

Thanks for leton me come. Thanks for leton us come, we appreciate it. Thanks

Thank you for letting us use the Camp this week!:)

Thank you for letting us have Bible School here.

Thank you!! The Thankful Scale showed us all the way to the right

Thank you

Brian - Summer Missionary

2011-06-22T16:09:00.004-04:00

Brian is a fisherman during his free time; but he is also a fisher of men on mission!

Brian currently attends the University of Memphis where he is studying Accounting. He will be a senior this fall. He plans to go to graduate school. He is involved with the Baptist Collegiate Ministries at the University of Memphis. He is the outreach coordinator.

One of Brian's favorite verses is

'If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.'

1 Peter 1:17-19 (NASB)

Susan - Summer Missionary in Training

2011-06-20T15:11:00.005-04:00

Susan has been involved with missions all her life. If you have been to Camp Agape before, you have probably seen her serving in the kitchen, the dining hall, or where ever there was a need.

Susan finds great joy in serving not only her earthly father but her heavenly Father as well. Susan is focused on her home-schooling and wants others to know that anyone can do missions work! "Start by falling in love with God, and He will give you the desire to love and serve others. If God gives you the desire to love and serve Him, He will provide you with the opportunities."

Some of Susan's favorite verses are:

"Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men"

Colossians 3:23 (NASB)

‘I know your deeds and your toil and perseverance, and that you cannot tolerate evil men, and you put to the test those who call themselves apostles, and they are not, and you found them to be false; and you have perseverance and have endured for My name’s sake, and have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent.'

'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.’

Revelation 2:2-5, 7

Meet Peter

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Peter comes to Camp Agape from New Mexico. A few years ago, he felt called to do missions and has been looking for opportunities to gain experience. A friend of his suggested the Summer Missionary / Sojourner program through the North American Mission Board.

We are thankful that Peter was led to Camp Agape. He's a long way from home but his parents have supported his decision.

Peter has a strong understanding of the power of prayer and asks for you to pray for him this summer. One of Peter's favorite verses is Joshua 1:9 (NKJV).

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Meet the Missionaries - Andrew

2011-06-09T13:14:00.003-04:00

Andrew is currently attending Hinds Community College where he is studying History. He plans to attend Seminary after college to become a youth minister.

Andrew's core verse this summer is found in Hebrews chapter 12.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV)

We worship you, oh mighty God!

2011-06-08T15:14:00.002-04:00

Morning worship and devotion time at the new worship area at the front of the Camp.

June 2011 Newsletter

2011-06-07T16:38:00.001-04:00

June, July 2011

New Worship Area

2011-06-07T16:05:00.002-04:00

Thank you to Peter, Andrew, James, Brian, Christopher, Gideon, and Kacee for their hard work in making such a beautiful area of worship.

This area at the front of the Camp used to be

surrounded by a chain link fence and full of stumps, dead trees and brush with very little grass.

The cedar wood for the fence was donated by a member of First Baptist Benton. The rocks and mulch were moved from other areas of the Camp.

Summer Missionaries hard at work

2011-06-07T15:52:00.003-04:00

The staff, volunteers, and summer missionaries have been hard at work getting Camp Agape ready for groups.

One of the hottest days so far this summer, they loaded three 16-foot trailers full of donated lumber. They all enjoyed a dip in the lake when the job was completed!

The lumber will be used for multiple projects. This lumber was donated from a member of Delano Baptist church.

The Bus Cabin

2011-06-07T15:41:00.003-04:00

This summer a bus was donated to Camp Agape. What will we do with a bus, you ask? The Camp staff and volunteers became very creative and turned the bus into sleeping quarters for our male summer missionaries!

The bus comes complete with beds, electricity, and even a window air conditioner! We didn't want to have a yellow bus just sitting out in the open, so we took some of the donated lumber and built a "Bus Cabin".

The guys were a little unsure at first but seemed to have adjusted to the accommodations quite well.

Local Orientation

2011-05-25T16:10:00.005-04:00

P.L.A.Y. T.I.M.E.

Purposeful Leisure Activities You Teach Involving Ministry Efforts

Using games to teach Biblical truths and principles

The sunrise that met the missionaries on their first day at Camp Agape.

Meet our 2011 Summer Missionaries!

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Front row: Susan from Tennessee; Nicole from Georgia; Kacee from Oklahoma

Back row: Peter from New Mexico; Christopher from Tennessee; Brian from Tennessee; Andrew from Mississippi; James from Mississippi.

Not pictured: Riley from Tennessee

Please pray for each of our summer missionaries as they strive to seek, to understand, and to live the truth in Galatians 2:20

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself up for me”

PCBA Churches have been busy at Camp Agape!

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PCBA Projects

Come, Follow, Fish

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As He called His disciples, Jesus said, "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men".

The mission of Camp Agape is to assist churches in fulfilling their vision to build the kingdom of God. People and groups who come to Camp Agape are in various stages of their Christian walk; we try to meet them where they are and help them grow in their walk with the LORD through discipleship and ministry.

If your church is looking for a summer Retreat or Mission Camp destination, we still have slots available for 2011.

Psalm 8 (KJV)

2011-04-12T16:25:00.002-04:00

O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.

Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

what is man that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?

For thou has made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor.

Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet;

all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;

the fowl of the air and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.

O LORD our Lord how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

Quiet reflections with the LORD

2011-04-12T16:09:00.003-04:00

"Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the the earth." Psalm 46:10 (KJV)

Oak Grove Cabin

2011-03-29T16:21:00.003-04:00

This spring we have been working on repairs. If you have been to Camp Agape before, you may recognize this as Oak Grove Cabin. We had a group of men from Oak Grove Baptist Church who came out and painted the outside of the cabin. They plan to come back when we are ready to do repairs on the chimney as well. A group of Lee University students came through and painted the inside of Oak Grove Cabin.

Welcome Center Garden

2011-03-29T16:02:00.002-04:00

First Baptist Church of Arcadia, Florida came to Camp Agape for Missions in April 2010. They planted trees and bushes, moved rocks, and shoveled mulch. The finishing touch on the garden was when they erected the cross. Many of the worship areas around the Camp have a cross in a prominent position to remind us of what Christ has done for us. As we come in to this Easter season of 2011, we pray that you, too, will keep your eyes on the cross and what Christ has done for YOU. Psalm 103: 11-12 reminds us "For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us."

Lake Agape Dam Valve

2011-03-16T16:36:00.002-04:00

This winter the old valve that controlled the flow of Lake Agape broke. As a result, the Lake went from 16 feet deep to 5 feet deep. There were places were you could walk all the way across the lake.

Praise God for His provisions!!
This is the new valve that will be installed on Saturday, February 19, 2011 if the weather
cooperates. The entire assembly was donated; the fabrication of the unit was also donated.
To give you an idea of the size, Mike’s 2-year old granddaughter is standing next to it; the valve itself weighs approximately 850 pounds .

Camp Agape Logo

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Camp Agape Logo

April/May 2011 Newsletter

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April, May 2011 Broadcaster

Feb/March 2011 Newsletter

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Feb, March 2011

New Lake Agape Dam Valve

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Dam Valve and Reagan

Sunrise

2011-01-25T13:24:00.003-05:00

Pastor Jeremy Shannon of Cynthiana Baptist Church brought his youth group to Camp Agape September 2010. He captured this sunrise over Lake Agape where the sun rays have obscured the mountains behind. This picture brings to mind Revelation 4:1,
"After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will show thee things which must be hereafter."
Will you be ready when the door to heaven is opened? Our prayer is to help as many people as possible be ready when that time comes. If we can help you, please let us know.

Camp Agape Newlsetter - December 2010

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December 2010

Fall Direction

2010-11-08T11:24:00.004-05:00

No, I didn't make this video.

It's not an easy one to sit and watch. Here's my question... As a church, as believers, as a ministry, as God's children... What are we doing about this ever increasing problem we call poverty?

It's everywhere but do we see it?

Time and time again in Scripture I am seeing where Christ lived among the broken, the impoverished. Are we choosing that too? He didn't just give to them... He walked among them.

Last Friday I had the opportunity to meet with a couple of pastors. The question that day in my head was what is the church suppose to look like? Each of the pastors I met with at a separate times talked about the poor and our calling to meet them where they are.

One pastor lead me to Isaiah 58. When I got home and read it all I could think was wow... It's such a great verbal expression of what we as the church should be doing.

I felt lead to ask the second pastor his story. He too began to share his life of thinking he knew Christ as a child yet choosing a life of drugs and alcohol during his adult years. By God's grace he now walks in freedom from those things! He now stands ready and willing to minister to those who are in that place right now. Those who have been abused, raped, addicts, etc. The poor in spirit. His heart is to help them understand Christ wants more than a simple prayer. He wants their life! He said a prayer as a child, but never fully committed his life and will to that of the Father.

Granted, this is just my own opinion but I think our churches are full of those kind of people. They have said prayers but never fully turned over their life. Which is why we see so few people truly caring for the poor and the broken. That's why we so regularly walk in disobedience to God's word. We view it as helpful stuff but more so just to make our lives a little better or make a little more sense. Rarely is it truly to serve the needs of others.

During this time of year we begin seeking as a ministry how to walk in a greater obedience to meet the needs as Christ did. Please be join us in prayer as we seek the Lord on what that will look like through this ministry. And how we can help prepare churches that come here to walk in that same obedience. Truly seeking to be broken for what Christ was broken for during His ministry here on earth...

Look around you this week... Do you know of anyone struggling from poverty? If not, it's time you go find them because I promise they are not far from your very door step.

Please take a minute to read Isaiah 58. May He speak through His word to you today!

Desperately needed!

2010-10-13T16:37:00.003-04:00

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Each year through the ministries at Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries we hand out THOUSANDS of these bracelets (see below). It proves to be a great conversation starter that shares the Gospel. We are totally dependent upon groups making these for us to use, so if your group is interested in a simple yet productive project please help us out. The instructions are below. Not only are we asking you to make these but take time to pray over each one for the person who will be hearing the Gospel through this visual aid.

You can mail the bracelets to:

Camp Agape & ORM

355 Camp Agape Rd.

Benton, TN 37307

We do ask that you follow the instructions exactly. There are many variations of this type of visual aid Gospel but we have seen this version work for our setting and ministry sites. Let us know if you have any questions! (praiseGod@campagape.net)

From ud' bracelet

Summer 2010 pictures

2010-10-12T17:20:00.003-04:00

Summer has come and gone like the wind! Check out some of our photos. We already have groups on the calendar for next summer. Please give us a call if you'd like more information concerning how you can be apart of what God is doing in and through this ministry!

2010 Summer Mission Teams

Summer Missionaries of 2010

2010-04-30T10:14:00.002-04:00

One aspect of our summer missionaries looks great and one looks a little concerning...

So far we have 3 girls (that's the good part).

Then we only have one guy... There is the slight problem.

Granted Matthew might see this as an opportunity and not necessarily a problem. We are not comfortable having only one guy. Yes, there is the obvious reason of what it would look like for one male to stay with 3 girls.

But there is also the fellowship and spiritual side of things. Summers here can be long and hard. They can also be filled with laughter and joy. Our staffer needs a roommate and a buddy to serve with. We want him to have someone else he can hang out with and do stuff with. Someone that he can connect with spiritually through the summer.

All that ask two things of you. Please be in prayer that we could find another male summer missionary. And to ask if you know any male college student who loves the Lord and is willing to work hard AND is looking for somewhere to serve Him for the summer please let us know.

Thanks!

FBC Arcadia, FL

2010-04-19T11:31:00.003-04:00

Thank you FBC Arcadia!

You were our first mission trip of 2010. Thank you for helping to remind each of us at Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries why we do what we do!

We rejoice with the new sister in Christ we now have from your crew!

Below you can click on the picture to see a few more pics of their Welcome Center project.

Welcome Center

New Pictures!

2010-04-16T08:30:00.003-04:00

We're trying to see how Picasa works to provide more pictures. Below is the link for the 1st album of pictures. In these photos you'll see some campus blessings/upgrades! We've been blessed with some landscaping and better roads! Hope you enjoy the photos.

*Please disregard the smudge on the pictures. I did not notice this until AFTER I spent over an hour walking campus and taking pictures. Needless to say I decided not to go walk another few hours for photos. I have since wiped off the smudge!

Spring 2010

Pictures we like to see

2010-03-17T15:58:00.002-04:00

Below is a picture we love to see!

Cars parked in front of the dining hall.

The following pictures are ones we really love to see!

People working. Not just for the sake of busy work, but people with servant hearts.

Of course in the midst of working as we were walking through campus God's creation

was scene. One of many natural springs we have on campus was scene and inspected by

our helping hands. God's provision being scene in nature!

Thank you Philadelphia Baptist from Cleveland, TN for spending your Saturday serving here at Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries! Your helping hands were a great encouragement to Chris and Lindsey more than you know.

Conference is Complete

2010-02-22T09:43:00.002-05:00

The weekend was good! To say I was worn out by Saturday night is probably a bit of an understatement. But it was the good kind of worn out.

I'm not sure if you are familiar with a program called WMU (Women's Missionary Union) or not. Below is an excerpt from their webpage

"Woman’s Missionary Union® is an organization which strives to challenge Christian believers to understand and be radically involved in the mission of God. Since its beginning in 1888, WMU has been true to its basic purpose: missions.

WMU's Web site strives to meet Christians' needs and interests by providing missions information, resources, organizations, and opportunities. WMU, through its Web sites, hopes to encourage and enable Christians to become involved in missions, both individually and as a member of a Christian group. WMU has provided missions-related information online since 1996."

It truly is a wonderful program. Through that they sponsor events such as Girls in Action, Children in Action and Acteens. Basically they have things for all ages. Next time you have a minute check it out and see if it's something your church might be interested in!

GA Event

2010-02-19T11:41:00.002-05:00

This time tomorrow I will be knee deep in little girls (ages 1st-6th grade) and all their splendor and joy!

Tonight I'll be traveling to Hunstville, AL to help with a Girls in Action program tomorrow. I classify as NAMB Missionary since I am a Mission Service Corps Volunteer through NAMB. Through the past couple of years I have done a few of these conferences. This one is going to be a little different.

I have SIX different sessions of 30 minutes each. During those 30 minutes I will have 60... I repeat S-I-X-T-Y girls. Well, I assume that includes a few adults as well. Anyways. There will be 60 people listening to me talk about our ministries here at Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries.

Typically, I have had groups of 30 but never 60. It should be a good day.

Be in prayer that God will use me during this time to share His TRUTH and not just information about the ministry. It's a priviledge to have a captive audience. I just want to make sure and use the time wisely.

For those who are confused thinking, "But don't you work at a camp? Don't you normally have groups that big?" We aren't that kind of camp. :)

PS: I think I'll take my lifeguarding ear piercing whistle just in case things get out of control...

MONDAY

2010-02-08T17:39:00.003-05:00

It was a Monday today here at Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries.

The to do list was infinite and the amount of people that just popped into for one reason or another was infinite as well.

My favorite of them all other than a couple of local favorites I always enjoy visiting with was Roger. Roger is our bug guy. I guess exterminator would be more appropriate. When I think or say exterminator I always begin to think of THE Terminator. Which gets me distracted.

Back to Roger the bug guy.

We have known him for a few years now. He and his dad are both in the ministry. Recently he has taken over the pastorate at his dad's church. Roger's son has definitely been the prodigal son dabbling in lots of not legal things. Chris and I have gotten to listen to Roger's broken yet faithful heart concerning his son.

Today we got to hear joy and excitement. Roger's son has returned to the Lord with a new found passion. One of those passion that doesn't come from earthly things but only for the Lord! It was awesome to see this man standing with a can of bug stuff getting louder and louder and his smile getting bigger and bigger as he talked about his son and what God was doing!

Roger went on to tell us about what's happening at his church. He has not encouraged people to simply get involved. He has encouraged them to sit at the feet of the Father. Roger said as their love for God grows their love to show up and work grows to. He said it's amazing! What a joy to hear of a church doing it right things in the right order. Love the Lord first and then let all else fall in place. According to God's leading. Pretty sure there's a few words like that which can be found in the Book.

Do you know the story of your bug man? Might want to ask. Might be the highlight of your day as well!

3:45pm February 1, 2010

2010-02-01T16:13:00.002-05:00

We will no longer be sending our cash to the bank to pay off a loan! Yes, that is correct... As of today, February 1, 2010 Camp Agape is officially DEBT FREE!! To some of you that's not a big deal. However, to many of us it is a sense of freedom. What a joy! Continue to pray that we and all those involved in this ministry will faithfully follow God's leading for direction. The blissful impact of no more loan will have full impact come this time next month when we do not have to write out another check. May we always seek to be faithful stewards of all the Lord will entrust us with!

complete in Christ,
Lindsey
Missions Associate

PS - Simply because we have paid off a loan does not mean we will be able to allow everyone to come to Camp Agape for free. Unfortunately, there are still many other people (gas, electric, water, etc.) that will still be needing a monthly check from us. I hope you will still celebrate with us on this joyous occassion!

Common thread?

2009-12-26T14:35:00.002-05:00

Today I know someone who is leaving for a week to travel to Nicaragua (Erin F).

Today I know someone who is leaving for Jamaica for a week (Kevin L).

Today I know someone who is leaving for Hungary for 2 YEARS (Stephanie)!

At the end of this month I know someone who is leaving for Honduras for a week (Shelby C).

What's the common thread? Well, there are a few of those. I am blessed to know each of these folks #1. Then of course there is the common thread of what each of them will be doing... They are going to far and distant lands to share the most powerful Truth that can be found in this world. That is the Truth that Christ is alive and real! The #3 common thread is that each of them has served with Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries as a summer missionary.

I had the privilege of visiting with the young lady going to Nicaragua last night before her trip. As I was getting ready for bed I received a text from the young man heading out to Jamaica. The young lady heading to Honduras recently shared the extreme excitement in getting her first passport! It has been a great joy to watch the young lady heading to Hungary for 2 years as she as grown and matured so much in her obedience to the Lord.

The most amazing part of all this is that this is but a glimpse of what God allows us to do through Camp Agape & ORM with summer missionaries. My dad ask me yesterday about how often students return to work with us. Unfortunately, we do not have a high rate of returning students. I went on to explain to my dad though about each of these students and how God uses our ministry more often than not as a time of great learning and experience as each of our students prepare to go further in their service for the Lord.

As I stated this is but a glimpse. The number of summer missionaries we have had still living in the states and doing work for the Lord both vocationally and in secular positions is incredible!

More than anything I ask that you be in prayer for these students who are traveling to far and distant lands. Pray for safety and pray for obedience.

Rock Slide

2009-11-18T13:28:00.003-05:00

"But Jesus answered, 'I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"

Luke 19:40

Rarely do I see large stones, rocks or even mountains without thinking about this scripture. Last week out on the Ocoee there was a bit of a rock problem. Actually, it was a huge rock problem. What is pictured above is the put in for the middle part of the river. For those that hav been rafting that is the area where you walk your boat down to the water. You can also see what use to be a section of Hwy 64 missing.

There was a rockslide. It was huge! I noticed in our local paper today a link where you can go to see more pictures and keep up to date with the project. For those interested you can go to

ROCKSLIDE

to see the most current news.

2009-08-10T09:59:00.004-04:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Above you should find a few pictures from our mission teams this summer. It is but a glimpse of what goes on through the ministry with Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries!

Groups typically come and stay a week. Through that week they go through a bible study together which is taught our director, Chris Stewart. Then after that each morning, starts the day of sharing God's love through many different ways.

This summer mission teams did several different Community ministries:

Copper Basin Crisis Center

Angel Wing's Daycare

Prayer walking Benton area

Polk County Food Bank (preparing bags & distribution)

Senior Adult visitation and church service

Prayer walking local schools

Trail maintenance on campus

On Thursday & Friday the teams would move into the Resort ministry area:

Prayer walking ministry sites

Beach Reach

Watering Hole (giving out water to rafters on the Ocoee River)

Prayer Hikes

Friday night Guide Meals

For us it's all about finding people where they are and meeting simple needs in order to share about the greatest Love that there is! We meet many people who have heard of this Love yet have never seen it in action so it's hard for them to understand it. It's our desire that through our simple ministries they can begin to see glimpses of the great Love. It's through our simple ministries we desire to see mission teams take home ways they can begin sharing of this Love in their hometowns! In the days to come will be quotes from different trips that have come through Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries.

Thanks for taking time to check out more of what was happening around here this summer!

are YOU wondering?

2009-08-04T14:17:00.004-04:00

YOU are probably wondering what is going on?!?

Yes, I'm fully aware that tomorrow will mark two entire months in which no blogging occured.

Have you ever dropped something and it just bounced off the floor and you picked it up with no problem? Then sometimes when you drop things it makes a loud noise but nothing shatters. Then you drop the fine china and it shatters into a pretty good size mess. Not to mention the sensitiveness of what you just broke.

Then there are those days you drop things like a fish tank.

You're walking along fine carry this fish tank with fish, rocks, fish village and all in it. Something happens and it slips from your grip. Time seems to stand still...

The crashing of the glass tank comes first. Followed by the clanking of all the rocks from the bottom. Then the thud of the fish village comes next followed up by the gushing water and flopping fish. Lest we forget the feel of GUSHING WATER!

Some people say they drop the ball but I believe on blogging this summer I dropped the fish tank. I do apologize. Above you will see five reasons why I did drop the tank. Those are five of our full-time, live on campus summer missionaries. I cared more about them then carrying some silly fish tank or blogging.

I won't waste time saying I'm going to start blogging more tomorrow because I know that's not going to happen. Let's just say this... I do hope to catch everyone up to speed with our camp happenings in the next few weeks. Until feel free to continue to ask God to use this ministry for His Glory!

Thanks for being patient...

Still Alive

2009-05-05T13:36:00.008-04:00

I promise we're still alive over here in Benton, TN. It's simply that time of year again where things get a little out of control. Well, out of our control anyways. Daily we pray for God to stay in control so we don't have to worry about that part of life. I hope these pictures provide a glimpse of some of the things our hands have been doing over the past several weeks.

The garden is an after hours special project but I just thought I'd throw a few pictures in anyways. It's the first garden I've really ever been involved in so I'm fascinated every time I leave my house to see a seed that I helped to plant now growing into something we'll be eating soon!

We've started us a garden! The lettuce and onions have turned out well. The potatoes and beans are growing well. The peppers, tomatoes, and peas were most recently planted.

Open house for our new building was last Sunday afternoon. There was a flow of people in and out throughout the afternoon. The building looks great!! There's still much to be done before we can officially move in though.

We've tried to make some real parking spaces to help with all the different vehicles that will be around here in a very short time!

We've watched our flowers blossom out!!

We've scraped, blown and painted the entire ceiling in the dinning hall.

We fixed a culvert that was washing out with lots of BIG and little rocks.

We've created new trail systems for our cabins in the back.

We've built a really, really, REALLY cool bridge back by Calvary's Hill called Saved by Grace Bridge.

We've also added another bridge on the trail leading to Calvary's Hill.

Whew... Those are a few of the things that could be documented as to what's going on around here. I use the word "WE" with caution. When I say we I am referring to those of us at camp agape all the time as well as some amazing saints the Lord has blessed us with to help with many of these projects! We, as in the camp staff, would not have done much at all without WE as the body of believers the Lord has sent to this place!

Among all of this work we've had a couple of different groups come to campus for retreats. We've cleaned for them, cooked for them and even done some recreation with them. Then of course there is the office work that's always beckoning for attention. More groups continue to be booked for this coming summer!

Hopefully that's enough of an update to keep you satisfied for a few days.

This Friday we will have our first mission trip for the season. Please be in prayer for the team as they prepare to come and for Chris as he is preparing the Bible Studies to be taught throughout their time here.

Reminder!

2009-04-02T14:14:00.002-04:00

Please pray for the Polk County Baptist Association today.

Continue to ask the Lord to speak to the committee members concerning our DOM.

Thanks!

April 4th - Mulch Mountain

2009-03-31T13:03:00.006-04:00

Saturday, April 4th-9am

Help us prepare a place for people to walk and talk with the Lord!

Yes, that's a car on the left side. On the right, taking up most of the photo is Mulch Mountain. We have tons of mulch that's taking over our big ball field. The mulch has been given by Asplundh tree people for free so we greatly appreciate it.

This Saturday April 4 we are going to put some of this mulch to good use! We have lots of trails that need mulch on them. If you've got some spare time even if it's just an hour and not the whole day we'd love to have your help. Mulch Mountain must be dealt with! The trail system is often a location where people go for quietness to be with the Lord. We do not want the roughness of the trails to interfere with their walking and talking with God.

Please come help us prepare these areas of campus for people to worship the Lord as they walk and talk with our Savior!

Pray with us!

2009-03-31T12:45:00.004-04:00

In the near future there will be a big decision made for our association.

Filling the position of Director of Missions.

The committee is in it's final stages of interviewing qualified men for this position.

Prayers are desperately needed!

Sure to some people it's just another position that needs a warm body. To some people that position turns into an easy pulpit supply person. To others they question the necessity of such position.

We believe that the right man could greatly help further God's Kingdom through Polk County Baptist Association. Not only could he help on the Associational level but he also could help further God's Kingdom through this camp ministry. For those that are unaware our camp is technically run through our association. Hence, our concern in finding the man God has for the position.

Making decisions such as this one are never easy ones. Which is once again why we are asking for your prayers. Pray specifically for the men on the search committee. Pray for the Lord's wisdom be upon their hearts. Pray for the decision of who to hire not be made on familiarity but on the Lord's leading! Pray also for the man God has for the position to be prepared to step into his role following the Lord. As he will play a huge role in leading our association to have a more Christ like heart!

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." James 1:5-6

This week March 24-29

2009-03-24T16:19:00.003-04:00

Currently we have a group from Bradley County who arrived this morning and will be departing Thursday morning. They will be doing Bible Studies and work projects around campus.

Friday evening a group from Georgia checks in for the weekend. They are coming for a prayer retreat. They will be departing campus Sunday morning.

Please be in prayer for these groups as they seek the things of God. As we all know distractions come out full force when you really try to focus in on God. God is bigger than distractions though! This we firmly believe. Be in prayer that God's presence will be felt by all on this campus with these groups!

WMU Conference

2009-03-24T16:09:00.002-04:00

It would have made more sense had I posted about this before last weekend. Now here we are after last weekend and I'm posting. Work with me as I continue to discipline myself to blog about our happenings.

Last weekend Lindsey (Missions Associate) and Penny (Director's wife) had the opportunity to meet lots of people from our state at the WMU missions get together in Gatlinburg. We set up a booth and posted ourselves there from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening. We saw a few local faces which is always nice amidst the sea of new faces. The goal of the weekend was to spread the word about Camp Agape & Ocoee Resort Ministries!

We handed out around 350 bookmarks that had our camp information on it. Please be in prayer for folks that we were able to speak to about this ministry. We are greatly desiring for people especially those within about a 2 hour driving distance to become more involved with this ministry. It's an amazing place where God is at work! Many seemed interested but only time will tell of that interest.

Thanks for coming by to visit for those that were able to!

Kitchen Pantry

2009-03-24T16:06:00.002-04:00

Our kitchen pantry is slowly but surely coming back to life again. This time with much needed reorganization. Thanks to Chris, his wife, and another local volunteer! We look forward to getting this project completed in the very near future.

Brush Clearing

2009-03-24T15:48:00.005-04:00

When we had the timber cut down around our cabin area there was a good bit of tree tops left on the ground. With our spring groups fast approaching this mess has got to be handled. Chris is currently out right now clearing these piles to ensure those that come to our campus stay safe. This big mess is in between our cabins in areas where people walk to get from place to place. You'd be amazed at the injuries that can occur from tree limbs.

The piles pictured are just the beginning. So far the prisoners have come out and taken away 3 dump truck loads of wood to use for the elderly next winter. We were so glad that wood was going to help others out! One other pickup load has been taken out and probably another 2 dump truck loads are left. That's not including all the tree tops and limbs scattered about!

The limbs and tree tops have to be stacked by hand and then we use the tractor to place them in other areas of campus where they are not a hazard. Our main concern is the safety of those who use this campus. People come hear to draw near to the Lord. We don't want a mass of sticks to hinder their hearts from experiencing God!

If you've got any spare time to play a game of pick up sticks than

please give us a call!

Trees, Trees, and more Trees!

2009-03-24T15:34:00.003-04:00

This past weekend was tree mania here at Camp Agape!

Guess what the biggest problem was?

Very few hands ready and willing to get dirty...

Chris, Mike and Lindsey planted some on Thursday (Chris planting most of them). Then Friday Chris, Mike, and a couple of volunteers from Sevierville planted until dark. Saturday was Chris, the two volunteers and a handful of students from Lee University. We were greatly appreciative for those who did show up. However, with the number of trees we needed to planted (around 2000) it just wasn't enough man power to get the job done.

Today on campus there are a few RA's & GA's from Bradley county planting a few more. The trees have been sitting in bags waiting to be planted since last Thursday so we're hoping they'll still survive being planted this late in the ball game. Another reason for our push to get them planted last Thursday, Friday and Saturday was due to the Almanac suggestion of those being the best days to plant.

The beauty is that we find rest in the Creator's hands!

May He bring forth and grow these trees and this campus in the ways He so desires!

Thanks again to those who were able to set apart their time and energy to help with this project!

Welcome Center Update

2009-03-24T15:28:00.003-04:00

Who would have ever thought bunk beds could so easily convert to drying racks?

Much of the Welcome Center is going to have a rustic feel to it which requires lots of stained wood. The stain has been applied but the polyurethane still needs to be applied. There's also still several pieces of wood to be stained! It's going to look great when it's all said and done.

Want to play in the dirt?

2009-03-07T13:10:00.003-05:00

We need your hands!

March 19-21

there will be around 2000

trees that need to be planted!

If you are in the area or know of

anyone that is please let us know!

Lee University Students - Thanks!

2009-03-02T11:41:00.007-05:00

For most people these pictures will mean absolutely nothing. Mainly, because we have no pictures to prove what these areas looked like before. This past weekend we were blessed with about 15 students from Lee University looking to lend a helping hand. With the help and direction of our Camp Director there was some serious work that took place this weekend.

One group was stationed in the dorm area. That group took care of some light clean up jobs and doing touch up paint in many areas.

One group was stationed in our supply closet. This is the hub of many things that happen through our campus. Most items were taken out of the closet and sifted through. Then the items were put back in an organized fashion.

One group was stationed in our kitchen pantry. They removed ALL items from the pantry! That was a lot of stuff. Then they did a deep cleaning on all walls, shelves, and floors.

As these task were completed the groups also helped clean up other areas like our laundry room and our back porch area.

To the unknown visitor these task probably seem a little insignificant. However, to those of us who work here they are great blessings!

Working at a camp is basically organized chaos. There are people constantly in and out of here all needing different things. It is a huge help to us when we can quickly get our hands on something someone is in need of. What adds chaos to chaos is to have our things disorganized.

The kitchen areas mean we can function within the proper health codes without fear of being penalized or even possibly shut down. It's these little behind the scene things that most people never understand or even know about.

If these behind the scenes things are not well taken care of and maintained then there will be no in front of the scene things happening!

Thank you Lee students for giving of your time and effort to help us out! Most importantly thank you for praying over these areas to prepare the way for God to move!

Got Skills?

2009-02-26T10:34:00.006-05:00

We are well into the time of year where repairs are going on everywhere and repairs are still needed in every location! Chris, our director, has invested time in creating a master list of projects that need to be taken care of. These projects have been broken down per building/area of campus.

All hands can be used for these projects!

Following you will find a brief list of possible projects both big and small (taken from our 3 page master list that continues to grow):

-Repair screen door

-Septic System installed

-Ceiling Repairs and repainting

-Cleaning and Organizing

-Decks and picnic tables need sealing

-Check all sewage lines for proper function

-Remove tree debris (EVERYWHERE)

-Check for sink holes on big field

-Clearing, Lining, Mulching trails

-Paint (interior & exterior)

-Pressure washing buildings

-Finish new Welcome Center

As stated this is a brief list! No matter your skill level, rest assured, your hands could be used in this ministry. If you would care to help out at anytime please call our office so we can set up projects, time, and supplies.

God takes care of this ministry in ways sometimes we don't even understand. Stay tuned for the ways His hands meet our needs! If you would like the entire list please let us know and we will provide you and/or your group with whatever details you would like.

New Awnings!

2009-02-19T16:40:00.004-05:00

We were blessed with some new awning covers today! I had taken several pictures but apparently only this one wants to load up right now. The old awnings were beginning to tear and the colors were greatly fading. We appreciate the blessing! As insignificant as they might seem to many they do make a difference when entering and exiting buildings. They also make the buildings have a nicer over all appeal to them.

February Newsletter Article

2009-02-18T16:23:00.003-05:00

Feb 09

Publish at Scribd or explore others:

Roof Repair

2009-01-28T09:23:00.007-05:00

This past week January 21-25 we were blessed to have some guest join us at Camp. There was a group of 18 men who traveled from south Georgia to fix our dorm and dining hall roof problems. Currently all that was on the roof was metal. Through the weather and vibration from the road we had screws coming loose and water leaking through the roof. We had enough damage that our insurance deemed it something we could claim.

Mike and Chris spent much time calculating what it was going to take and researching what our best option to fix the problem was going to be. The final solution was to take the metal off, put down decking (OSB) and cover that with tar/felt paper. Then put the existing metal back onto the roof and replace the end caps.

All and all these men screwed in 12,500 screws! There was a fair amount of screws missing but they unscrewed just about as many to get all the tin off the first time.

These men were amazing. They left families and jobs to complete a task for us that we could not do ourselves. During their stay here the Lord was also able to speak to many of their hearts which of course for us was a joy. Not only did we get a roof fixed but the Lord dealt with many of these men while they were here which is always our goal for all who stay here!

We pray this was not a one time event for these men but a standing partnership for the years to come. As Mike pointed out early on with this certain project... These men could not bring their families back to see the work they had done. Literally, everything they did was covered back up with the same metal as before. These men were not working to be seen but rather working to serve our King!

Thank you men for your service.

Christmas time

2008-12-11T14:28:00.003-05:00

I'm sure it's the very same wherever you are reading this. It's Christmas time! Stores are having sales galore. Christmas lights can be seen at night. Christmas trees strapped to cars is not an abnormal sight this time of year.

Christmas time can me so many different things for many different people.

To some the season will be a challenge because they are facing it without a loved one this year.

To some it will be a new experience because their family has grown throughout this last year.

To some it's a frustration because of finances. There's no money to buy what everyone wants. Which turns into a self-defeating issue for many. Why can't they make more and provide more?

To many it's just another day on a calendar.

To many it's all about the gifts and lights.

Those are the ones I hurt for the most.

Those that have no concept of what the first true Gift was or the guiding Light that fulfilled prophecy!

It is our heartbeat through this ministry that we reach those that need to receive the Gift and those in search of that guiding Light. Christmas is a reminder for us that there are still many who have no clue of those two things and by the looks of even our own society today... There are many who know of the Gift and Light yet they choose not to accept either of them. Could you imagine how you would feel this season if you worked on the perfect gift for someone you love deeply and upon giving it to them, they reject it. They look at it with disgust as if you just pulled something out of the trash for them.

What heartbreak the Lord must feel as He looks upon us when we forget the beauty of the Gift and Light!

What are you doing to show the Lord your appreciation for the most wonderful Gift of all times and the brightest Light known to this world?

What are you doing to show others how wonderful the Gift and Light are?

Today is December 11. Which means you have 14 more days until this Christmas season is over.

What are you going to do? If i were to walk into your life right now would I see that you understand the true reason for the season or would I see the world just as much if not more than I would from someone who does not know the Lord?

You make the choice how you and your family will celebrate.

Are you willing to be different from the world through this season?

Seek the Lord today about how you and your family can make sure the focus this Christmas season truly is on THE GIFT and THE LIGHT!

Let us hear about how you set apart this season as a time of worship...

November Newsletter

2008-11-21T11:39:00.002-05:00

Hope this finds you all doing well and with hearts of thanks as you prepare for Thanksgiving next week!

November 08

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October 08 Newsletter

2008-11-07T15:33:00.002-05:00

Woo-Hoo! I'm a little excited I figured out how to put our newsletter on here! If you'll click the top right corner of the gray (it's either a rectangle with a smaller one inside of it or it's an X) area it should go to a larger screen.

October 08 Rev

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Zion Roof

2008-11-07T11:38:00.003-05:00

Here's the roof the guys put on for us. Over the past year we had an enormous amount of strong gusting winds. So much so we had to file claims on our insurance because our buildings were being damaged. We're debating renaming this building the Christmas cabin due to the lovely colors. In the event we get supplies and volunteers sometime this fall hopefully the cabin will change into a dark beige type color. Something a little more natural that will go with the roof better too.
Location: Camp Agape - Benton, TN

Timber 11/6/08

2008-11-07T11:17:00.004-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Through the past several years Chris has been watching our trees decline in health. This year it has just gotten so bad he called a forester in for a professional opinion. They walked the camp property on more than one occasion and saw trees everywhere that were dead or dying.

The conclusion was basically that the there is an overpopulation of trees. There's not enough room for the trees to grow and grow sufficiently. They're choking each other out. Through much prayer and research the decision was made that we had to have some trees cut.

We have all cringed at that thought! We LOVE the trees!! But we knew if we didn't do something now we were risking losing all the trees in the years to come.

Well, God has blessed as He always does. Not only did we get some guys to cut the timber but they got started this week which means they should be through in time for us to get it all cleaned up before next summer. And they are doing an amazing job! They aren't just clear cutting. Chris, Mike Brock and our forester literally spent days walking campus and marking the trees to be cut.

This is my best interpretation of the situation.

Greetings!

2008-11-06T11:23:00.003-05:00

Keeping up with technology gets a little more fun each day. In an effort to let people know what's going on around here we have decided to try a blog out to see what that does. Blogs are fairly easy to maintain and can share information to the masses in a simple way. The "goal" and yes I use that term because that's exactly what it is... A "goal". Is to post something at least each Thursday and once a month put our newsletter in .pdf form that can be easily read.

Sometimes a goal is easily reached and sometimes it takes much work and effort to create the habits that will help to achieve the goal. I love this ministry greatly and want as many as possible to be aware with what is going on. With that in mind I hope it will be my encouragement to write and write often.

On the right hand side you can see a the words CLICK HERE towards the top. That link takes you to our webpage that's full of useful information. The more frequently we can have people visiting our webpage, the quicker we will be noticed on search engines. Thanks for helping us out with that.

I hope to have a newsletter posted by this weekend.

Thanks for visiting our blog!