Equips Christian leaders to create authentic Christian communities that reach out and draw everyone closer to Christ.
The Bethesda Retreat Ministry is a network of five programs located throughout the United States. Together, they provide a Christ-centered experience for volunteers of all ages, beginning with high school-aged youth (including those who will be freshmen in fall) and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Each summer at Bethesda’s five retreat locations, hundreds of youth and adult volunteers who come individually or on mission trips, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities join in worship, Bible study, fun and fellowship amidst God’s creation.
Each retreat session functions as a Christian community. Activities vary by location, but each retreat focuses on the teachings of Jesus, spiritual growth and the development of meaningful friendships. Participants learn to care for each other, help peers strengthen their relationships with Jesus and gain a deeper understanding of their faith.
Bethesda Auxiliary, a nationwide 4,000-member volunteer organization, is providing scholarships for high school and college-aged retreat volunteers needing financial assistance. Apply today for partial assistance by filling out application and email it to the Bethesda Auxiliary President, Joyce Schultz. Applications are due May 15, 2013.
Camp Matz (Wisconsin), SonRise (Indiana) and Camp Bethesda (Texas) are operated by Bethesda Lutheran Communities, while Bethesda Mountain Builders (Colorado) and Bethesda Forest Adventure (Oregon) are operated in partnership with other Christian ministries.
The Bethesda Retreat Ministry is part of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Servant Event Program. For more information, visit: http://ServantEvents.LCMS.org.
Camp Matz, Watertown, Wis.
For more than 40 years, Bethesda has shared the love of Christ with generations of people with developmental disabilities and volunteer companions at Camp Matz, featuring a one-of-a-kind accessible tree house.
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SonRise, Anderson, Ind.
SonRise volunteers and participants with developmental disabilities stay in a new, fully accessible retreat facility that includes a state-of-the-art worship center and paved trails. Learn More
Camp Bethesda, Tomball, Texas
Grow closer to Jesus in the beautiful chapel, relax in the covered outdoor pavilion and enjoy the large swimming pool, set on 85 lush, Texas acres at the Kaiserhof Retreat Center.Learn More
Bethesda Mountain Builders at Lutheran Valley Retreat, Woodland Park, Colo.
People with developmental disabilities and volunteer companions participate in Bible study, worship, fishing, horseback riding and hiking.Learn More
Bethesda Forest Adventure at Lutherwood Camp, Cheshire, Ore.
People with developmental disabilities and companions stay in roomy cabins, worship at an outdoor chapel, share fellowship around a campfire and enjoy activities in scenic playing fields. Learn More