Gilmont’s mission is to cultivate a safe, sacred space where all are invited to grow closer to God, creation, others, and themselves. At Summer Camp, we do just that! While having fun, campers gain new skills and develop emotionally, socially, spiritually, and physically.
A safe, sacred space...
Campers at Gilmont practice living in an intentional Christian community where respect, kindness, and encouragement are the norms. Campers and Summer Staff work together to create community guidelines with boundaries and expectations that the group follows throughout their stay. When conflicts arise, campers learn and practice conflict resolution centering grace, understanding, and forgiveness.
respect for others ꞏ setting and respecting limits ꞏ conflict resolution
All are invited...
While campers participate in the majority of activities with their cabin groups, participation looks different for each camper. Gilmont believes in and practices challenge-by-choice, meaning campers choose how far to stretch themselves in any given activity. Many activity blocks have options for campers to self-select their engagement based on their interests.
discernment ꞏ meaningful participation ꞏ creative self expression
Grow closer to God...
Gilmont is a place to not only learn about God and God’s people in Bible Study, but to also experience God’s love, wisdom, and goodness throughout the camp day. Gilmont encourages campers to wonder and ask questions about humanity, the church, God, and Jesus as a means of growing in faith. All campers participate in Prayer Stations where they engage in contemplative spiritual practices that they can continue to do at home.
wonder ꞏ reflection ꞏ applied faith
Grow closer to creation...
Gilmont offers a unique environment removed from daily life where campers slow down, listen to the sounds of birds, and observe the natural world. Creation becomes a site of recreation, prayer, and community building. As campers connect with nature, they learn more about the local biosphere, develop an affinity for creation, and learn their responsibility as children of God to care for the Earth and it’s inhabitants.
appreciation for living in the moment ꞏ an affinity of nature ꞏ stewardship
Grow closer to others...
New friendships are formed and old ones are strengthened at camp. Campers bond during camp activities and befriend people who are different from them. They learn to work together to achieve a successful camp day and live alongside each other in the cabins. Gilmont’s trained summer staff are their heroes and model positive social interactions centering listening, love, and encouragement.
positive social interactions ꞏ cooperation ꞏ communication
Grow closer to themselves...
At Gilmont, campers are exposed to new activities, learn new interests, and challenge their skills all while having fun in a safe environment. They feel proud of their achievements and capabilities and are inspired to try their best at new things. Away from the home environment, campers develop a strong sense of identity as beloved children of God.