Why Sumatanga Matters to Me — and Why I Hope You’ll Join Me in Supporting It

I grew up just minutes from Camp Sumatanga—yet I had no idea it was even there. That changed in 2007 when I went on my Emmaus Walk. Hutto instantly became one of my favorite places on earth (along with the chapel tucked beneath it). Serving on Emmaus Walks only deepened my appreciation for Sumatanga, but it wasn’t until years later that it truly became one of my most cherished places.

In 2014, my oldest son attended Day Camp. He came home swimming like a fish—something expensive private lessons had never accomplished! He enjoyed camp, but when my oldest daughter went for the first time, she absolutely fell in love. She begged to go back every summer…multiple times if we could make it happen.

Then in 2019, I was invited to join the Sumatanga Action Team. That experience gave me a firsthand look at the heart of this ministry—the planning, the prayer, the care, and the countless unseen details that make camp such a sacred space. From the moment I stepped into that role, I knew this was something I wanted to invest in wholeheartedly.

For the past five summers, I have had the joy and privilege of serving as a Camp Minister at Day Camps, Elementary Camps, and most recently at Mid-High Camp. Watching kids of all ages come together to learn about God in the beauty of His creation has been one of the greatest highlights of my ministry.

This summer is especially meaningful for our family. My oldest son hopes to serve on Summer Staff for the first time before heading off to college next fall. My oldest daughter is finally nearing her long-awaited chance to serve as a CIT. And our younger two will be attending Mid-High while my husband and I serve on the Ministry Team. Sumatanga isn’t just a camp for us—it’s a place where our family has grown, served, and been shaped.

Over the years, I’ve served not only at Summer Camps but also at Outdoor Education field trips and countless retreats—from Women’s Retreats to Exit 456. Every experience reaffirms what I already know: Sumatanga is a place of rest, renewal, and vision.

And like all ministries that make a lasting impact, Sumatanga depends on the generosity of people like you and me.

Every year, hundreds of lives are transformed here—children discovering faith, teens finding belonging, and adults reconnecting with God in a place designed for sacred encounters. I pray you’ll consider being part of this work.

Will you join me in supporting Sumatanga Camp & Conference Center?
Your donation helps ensure these life-changing experiences continue for years to come.

Thank you for giving, praying, and believing in this ministry.