a relationship with Jesus

Background

 

Camp and Conference ministries have been recognized as an integral part of the life of Grace Presbytery and its predecessor bodies for well over sixty years. The impact that these ministries have had on the life of the presbytery and the greater church has been immeasurable, and the voice of appreciation and support for what has taken place over the years resounds throughout the life of the people of Grace Presbytery.  In 2009, Camp and Conference Ministries as well as Grace Presbytery experienced significant changes, and with the changes, came a time of profound transition and opportunity.

Upon the sale of the Prairie Valley Camp and the dissolution of the Prairie Valley Board, Gilmont became the only Presbyterian-owned camp and conference center within the bounds of Grace Presbytery providing ministry for and with the congregations of this presbytery. Located in the piney woods and lakes of East Texas, Gilmont provides a unique setting for providing ministry for the member churches of Grace Presbytery.

Representatives from the Grace Presbytery Camp and Conference Committee and the Program Committee of Gilmont, came together in August, 2009 and agreed to the following:   “God is doing a new thing” (Isaiah 43:19) and it is our responsibility to discern what it is that God would have us do to discover the “new thing” in camp, conference, and retreat ministries.

This group proposed that the two entities work together formally in camp ministry partnership.   A proposal stating such was approved by both Grace Presbytery and the Gilmont Board in November of 2009.   Five months later, the name Grace @ Gilmont was adopted at the April 2010 partnership meeting.