Camps and Retreat Ministries

On Thursday, I traveled to Columbia to attend a meeting convened by the Board of Camps and Retreat Ministries of the SC Conference to share future plans for our facilities, Sewee Coastal Retreat Center and Asbury Hills Camp and Retreat Center. In recent years, these sites have been upgraded and their programs enhanced. Also, our annual conference has established a board of trust that gives direction to this ministry. The board now feels it is time to move forward with the long held vision of many that these sites be made appropriate for use throughout the year. This first stage comes with a 3 million dollar price tag and thus the real focus of our gathering. I wish that I could write that check, but I can offer support for the cause through personal reflection.

My relationship with and appreciation of Asbury Hills began in 1981 when our older son attended camp for the first time. As he connects the dots in his journey, he knows this was a key event. Not only did he return for camp, but later as a counselor. His love of the hills and streams of the Upstate was firmly established and continuing friendships made. The richness of this experience certainly gave understanding to his growing faith. His younger brother enjoyed camping at Asbury Hills, also. Through confirmation and youth retreats I know what a great place this can be, especially for those who have never known the exhilaration of creek hiking in early spring and climbing rugged terrain. These challenges seem to open young hearts and minds to new possibilities for believing and knowing their God.

It is not only the setting, but also the style of camping that makes Asbury Hills special. While many camps now operate like a school by having a variety of activities from which the camper creates his/her own schedule, Asbury Hill’s philosophy is still that of the small group. Building community, living in relationship with one another, cooperating in daily tasks are much needed skills in our fragmented and isolated society. In this setting, meaningful friendships are made that continue into the year ahead and the young adult leaders still serve as important role models for the campers.

Sewee offers a wonderful retreat setting for families and small groups. It is the hope that this site can be enhanced so that larger groups can use it and that a wetlands boardwalk and observation deck system can be built.

Many very dedicated United Methodists have worked long and hard to create and preserve our camp and retreat ministry. Today, we have a visionary board that is asking us to support this ministry into the future. I am impressed by their commitment to this and the business plan they have developed and will be a voice of support. SC Methodism needs this ministry.