March 2026 Update
I’ve had the joy of travelling to many congregations across the state of Iowa these past few months on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings (and some evenings) to share about the ministry of Riverside. This year, I’ve been compelled to share about the number ‘5’ and the number ‘0’ as I stand in front of hundreds of youth and adults.
Why 5 and 0?
FIVE. We fully believe that God does tremendous, eternal, life-changing work in the lives of His kids in five days of summer camp. Five days out of 365 in a year investing in your walk with Jesus, being reminded of your identity, purpose, and hope that comes from Him alone. Five days that you won’t regret taking, and that have eternal implications!
ZERO. Zero kids are turned away from summer camp each year because of finances, thanks to so many generous partners in ministry! And, zero kids walk away from camp without hearing the Good News of the Gospel. It’s our #1 priority here to share the Good News of the Gospel of God’s redemptive love found in Jesus Christ alone.
We’re so grateful for the many churches that call Riverside their home camp, and that trust us in investing in the lives of their congregation and community through Christ-centered camp experiences! Here are a few other nuggets this month:
- SUMMER STAFF. I’m so proud of our year-round team and their recruiting efforts this year and every year! That said, we are still seeking who the Lord will call to serve Him at Riverside this summer, growing in their leadership and faith and impacting lives for eternity. Please help us in this effort and ask the Lord who He might have you encourage to apply for summer staff!
- VOLUNTEERS. We love volunteers at camp and depend on them to fill specific needs throughout the year. From mowing, to being a volunteer nurse, from light maintenance to office work, from helping in the kitchen to serving on our safety and security team; there are so many ways to get plugged in throughout the year and the summer! Please email me if you are interested in being blessed by serving out here!
- Remembering the past and looking towards the future. This past month, I received some photos from staff and cabin leaders from the 1960’s. When we think about the ways the Lord has used His camp for His purposes for generations, it leads me to such a place of awe and gratitude. What I share with those who came to camp as campers decades ago is that much has changed (facilities, schedules, programs, etc.), but the main thing is still the main thing: fixing our eyes on Jesus Christ and expecting the Holy Spirit to change and transform lives here. As our board and staff continue to discern the Lord’s lead for the future, this remains the focus!
Grateful for you and your partnership in the Gospel!
Chris
