January 12-17, 2025
Program Connection
The event will be held at Gilmont Camp and Conference Center in Gilmer, TX on January 12-17. Program Connection is a meeting of faith-based programmatic minds; a space where those who love camp and conference programs can discuss theory and practice. It is based on the idea that we build each other up and improve our ministries through the sharing of ideas, insight, experience, and resources. Time is spent in discussions, workshops, and spiritual retreat so everyone can leave refreshed with lots of new ideas and resources. You can learn more about this event (and register) by going to the Program Connection website.
February 17-21, 2025
Maintenance Connection
The event will be held at Camp Bethel in Fincastle, VA on February 17-24. Maintenance Connection is the annual gathering of Site Managers, Maintenance Staff, and Volunteer Craftsman involved in camp, retreat, and conference ministries across the United States and Canada. The event is a unique blend of fellowship, networking, continued education, hands-on learning, sabbath, and sharing of ideas. All are welcomed. You will find more details (and the link to registration) by going to the Maintenance Connection website
March 11-14, 2025
Compass Points :: Program Design and Implementation
Program is the most important facet of outdoor ministry. From determining the need for a program to evaluating the final product, today’s camp and retreat leaders need to be knowledgeable in how programs are designed and implemented. This course will focus on an overview of human growth and development in relation to outdoor ministry, and will look at program models and how they serve as an extension of a ministry’s mission statement. Participants will also study how our summer programs can be part of a year-round ministry.This course will be held at Columbia Theological Seminary (near Atlanta, Georgia) and will be taught by Dr. Kathy Dawson and Joel Winchip, faculty members of Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, GA. Registration for this class is not yet available, but details can be found on the Compass Points website.
November 9-13
OMC Great Gathering
The Outdoor Ministries Connection's Great Gathering will return in 2025. This ecumenical conference will bring together outdoor ministry associations (including the Campfire Collective) from across the United States and Canada. The event will again be held at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center in Lake Junaluska, NC. The theme of the conference will be "Re-Imagine a Way in the Wilderness." Registration is now open (early bird pricing is available until January 15). You will find program details at https://omcgreatgathering.com.