07/25/2024
Having NO experience in camp ministry, I came to Rockfish Camp to serve as the PIR (Pastor in residence) for the week (6 days/5 nights) in order to have a new ministry experience. I was nervous about connecting with young kids (my boys now grown men) and was unsure how I would fit in here.
It became quickly apparent that our role (my BFF Michele teamed up with me this week!) was to support the staff who work TIRELESSLY (10 weeks in a row, 6:30am to 11pm with one full day of rest each week) to create an amazing experience for the campers. The counselors are not only leading fun activities, but navigating kids with IEPs, kids who have lots of emotional stuff going on at home, behavioral challenges and more… ALONG WITH thier own personal challenges.
So Michele and I have spent the week treating, listening to and supporting staff members as best we can. We’ve heard vulnerable stories, concerns and dreams from amazing leaders who are here loving and serving with everything they have to give.
We are just short-term visitors peeking in on this network of deeply formed relationships, which have been forged over camp fires, shared meals and song. I love observing the quiet moments where 2 or 3 counselors are just taking a moment of much-needed and super-deserved rest. They are so sweet to one another. ❤️
When I see all the moving pieces work together in harmony and listen each night to the kids sing worship songs together in the most joyous celebration… I see our North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church connection at its best and most beautiful!
The camp has a continuous list of needs (like art supplies & staff support)!!! I pray our connectional churches might remember this amazing ministry - they are truly working to make disciples for the transformation of the world!
Meg McBride,
Pastor of Hope Recovery & First United Methodist Church, Mount Olive