April 21, 1999

GRACE & PEACE:
Encampments provide
ministry to Texas Baptists
___"Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed" (Mark 1:35).

___They go by many names--camps, encampments, retreat centers, conference centers, assemblies--but they have in common a place where people can gather for worship, meditation and learning in a setting apart from the hectic pace most Texas Baptists experience daily.
___Scattered across Texas, Baptist encampments range in size and differ in setting and facilities, but they are alike in a commitment to honor the Lord Jesus Christ and help advance his mission.
___Some states have one Baptist camp. Texas Baptists chose to provide camps

William M. Pinson Jr. Executive Director BGCT Executive Board

throughout the state.
___Some are sponsored by an association. Others by multiple associations. Still others are owned and operated by a regional board.
___They are financed by fees and donations. Volunteers aid in construction and maintaining the facilities.
___Texas Baptist encampments are experiencing record attendance and numbers of professions of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
___During the past several years, thousands of people have responded to a call to missions, the pastorate or other forms of church-related vocations while participating in a conference at one of the conference centers.
___Those touched by the ministry of the Texas Baptist camps are now ministering to people throughout our state, nation and world.
___Texas Baptists can do many things to enhance the ministry of camps:
___ Prayer is vital.
___ Financial support is essential.
___ Aid in construction and maintenance is helpful.
___Utilization of the camps not only benefits those who participate, but the encampments as well. At every opportunity, hopefully the Baptists of Texas will take advantage of the facilities and dedicated staff at our conference centers.
___At one time, the facilities at most of the encampments were rustic at best. Today, while "camping" experiences still are available, the camps now have nice motel/hotel-type rooms also.
___Once, most conferences, classes and worship services were held in open-air pavilions and tabernacles. Today, excellent heated and cooled conference and worship centers are common.
___This upgrading of facilities has been made possible by generous gifts of money and labor by thousands of Texas Baptists.
___As a result, comfortable facilities in scenic settings are within easy travel time of Baptists throughout the state.
___The camps are available to groups of various sizes, from churches, associations and the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Some offer facilities for individuals.
___Whatever size the group, a dedicated, competent staff of the camp ministers to those who come.
___Please pray for the staff of the encampments.
___Pray for the boards who conduct them.
___And pray for all who utilize them to the glory of God.

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