Little Pine Island Camp (Article)

Christians are called to serve God. One way they can do that is by serving people. God did not tell the early believers to stay in the church, hoping that people would come to them. He simply said to seek them. Christian organizations around the world are serving Christ in this way. Little Pine Island Camp, affiliated with the Salvation Army, is one of those organizations. They further the Kingdom of Christ by showing people His love.

The Salvation Army is a Christian organization that reaches out to the world. In fact, they are a base-church that sponsors many Christ-centered programs. They spread out around America into smaller churches that are all connected to the Salvation Army. These churches are called cores. In addition, the Salvation Army establishes regional camps where multiple cores each send groups of children. The Little Pine Island Camp is one of these camps.

Their mission is to evangelize, and they enact it by showing Christ’s love. Many people who attend this camp come from broken families and do not know Christ. They use this opportunity to reach out to them, allowing these children to enjoy a different life for a week. The main way they accomplish this is by forming lasting relationships with each camper.

The Little Pine Island Camp is not merely an organization; they are made up of Christian individuals who work because they have a passion for serving Christ. Their website states, “The motivation of the organization is love of God and a practical concern for the needs of humanity.” The best way to do this is by living as Christ did. As the Bible says, “He came to serve and not be served.” This staff can see the Kingdom of God being built around them, and each member has a passion to take part in its development.

Little Pine Island Camp continues year-round because it succeeds. “If it were not beneficial, they would not do it anymore,” said Jessie Johncock, a Cornerstone senior who works at the camp. The success and benefits have no relation to money, though. In fact, it is a non-profit organization that allows people to come to camp for almost no cost. Still, the benefits are visible. When children accept Christ it becomes worth it to them. Moreover, they enjoy simply interacting with the people. These are the type of benefits that keeps this camp running – not money.

This camp revolves around the story of Jesus. This is what gives them hope and keeps them going. According to Johncock, “That’s the whole reason we do what we do.” Johncock has personally been impacted in numerous ways by working at the camp. She recalled “two brothers who were ridiculously poor,” yet they always came to camp with a smile on their face because the staff showed them the love of Christ. Additionally, the campers often keep in touch with their counselors after the camp session is over. This shows that they have made a difference. That is what the camp is all about: making a difference for Christ by showing His love.

Like many non-profit organizations, Little Pine Island Camp is always looking for help. They are seeking Christians who are willing to serve Christ. Those interested in serving at the camp may visit their website (www.lpicamp.org) or call 616-784-1404 for more information.


Copyright 2007 by Timothy C. Devaney