When we think of promoting child welfare, we often think of ensuring shelter, food, and safety. But more than just the essentials, child welfare also means positive experiences that create meaningful memories for kids.
Mt. Carmel Methodist Church in Flemingsburg, KY is investing in child welfare by helping more kids have access to opportunities like summer camp.
Mt. Carmel has partnered with Ruggles Camp and Retreat Center to sponsor children in the community to attend camp for free. Mt. Carmel covers the cost of camp for all of the children they sponsor. In 2024, Mt. Carmel sponsored sixteen children.
Kids participate in storytelling, arts and crafts, carpentry, music, scripture memorization, and immersive experiences that bring the Bible to life. Last summer's theme was a "Trip through the Wilderness," so the children went on a hike following "Moses" played by Rev. Tim Ray, Pastor at Mt. Carmel. "We are fortunate as a church family to have many children campers and volunteer adults to help with the success of these programs," said Rev. Ray. "We give thanks to God for the opportunity and the financial provisions that allow our congregation to provide the fee for each camper... The children often say when it is over, 'we can't believe we have to wait another year to come back!"
For Kathy Livingood, KyUMH Ambassador at Mt. Carmel, their partnership gives children opportunities to hear about God's love. "For those that come to us that have not been to church before, I hope a seed is planted and that it is the first of many places they see God actively working," she said.
Mt. Carmel Methodist Church is working to extend Jesus' love to their community. We are grateful for Mt. Carmel and other churches who are working to make Kentucky a better place for children! Together, we can ensure that children and families receive God's gift of wholeness of life.
If you would like to share ways your church is caring for kids in your community, I would love to hear about it. You can connect with me at johnmark.boes@kyumh.org.
