Phil Derstine, pastor of The Family Church at Christian Retreat, says this summer’s youth camps held at the Retreat in Bradenton, Florida, have been some of the most successful in recent history. In June and July, more than 700 children and teens attended Kids-A-Flame and YEX Youth Explosion, both week-long, overnight camps. The schedule includes arts workshops, afternoon recreational activities such as water slides, canoeing, swimming and sports, as well as evening services.
“What a thrill it is to see these kids’ lives changed as they are taught Biblical principles and motivated to become leaders,” Phil said. “We’re raising up the next generation!”
For nearly 30 years, the youth have come to Christian Retreat, an interdenominational conference center, from many different churches and communities throughout Florida and the Southeast. One of the children who attended this summer’s Kids-A-Flame said, “It was my first time going to Kids-A-Flame this year, and…it was a blast! I got much closer to God and learned how to be more open to the people around me. Thank you guys for putting so much time and effort into making Kids-A-Flame the best summer camp EVER!”
Another camper wrote, “Thank you for the camp you provided, because not only did I have fun, but I had a personal encounter with God…I’m so pumped for next year!”
Christian Retreat, a 110-acre property located on the banks of the Manatee River east of Bradenton, was established in 1968. It includes a conference center, The Family Church, a school, a 10-week Institute of Ministry and is headquarters for a worldwide missions organization.
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