06/08/2026
After nearly 20 summers at Camp Aldersgate, Executive Director John Michael Spelman will be stepping down at the end of the summer season to become the next Executive Director of St. Dorothy’s Rest in California.
For many in our community, it’s hard to imagine Aldersgate without John. He first came to camp as a camper, fell in love with the place, and never really left. Over the last 20 years, he served as a volunteer, counselor, Adventure Director, Program Director, and, for the last eight years, Executive Director.
This was not an easy decision. Aldersgate has been more than a job for John; it has been home. It’s where he grew up, discovered his calling, met his wife Rikki, and dedicated much of his life to helping young people experience the same sense of belonging and transformation that camp gave him.
During his time as Executive Director, Aldersgate has weathered challenges, celebrated milestones, welcomed new generations of campers, and continued to grow as a place where faith, friendship, and community change lives. Through it all, John has remained deeply committed to the mission and future of this ministry.
While we are sad to see him go, we are grateful that camp ministry will continue to benefit from his leadership. We know St. Dorothy’s Rest is gaining someone who believes deeply in the power of camps to transform lives.
John will continue serving through the summer season, and there will be opportunities in the months ahead to celebrate his ministry and thank him for all he has given to Aldersgate.
Please join us in wishing John, Rikki, and Diego all the best as they prepare for this next chapter.
