We, the undersigned, urge the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church to reconsider its decision to close and sell West Ohio Camps. We believe that camping ministry plays a crucial role in the spiritual, emotional, and social development of young people, and the closure of West Ohio Camps would cause irreparable damage to our youth and communities.

For decades, West Ohio Camps have been a place of refuge and a source of growth and inspiration for children and young adults. The camps have provided a unique opportunity for young people to connect with nature, build friendships, and deepen their faith. The values and life skills learned at West Ohio Camps have been instrumental in shaping the lives of countless individuals and families, including been an integral part of the spiritual formation of many current church leaders and pastors.

The closure of West Ohio Camps would have a devastating impact on the spiritual growth and leadership development of future generations. The loss of this sacred space would mean that children and young adults will no longer have access to the same opportunities for personal and spiritual growth that so many of us have cherished and benefited from.

Moreover, camping ministry is irreplaceable. There is no substitute for the unique environment and experiences that West Ohio Camps residential camps provide. Engaging campers in nature, activities, and relationship building in a social and spiritual development achieved in a time spent apart from their home, school, church and regular spaces is not something that can be duplicated. The skills learned through camping ministry - leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and self-reliance - are not only valuable in the spiritual realm but are also critical in everyday life.

We believe that the decision to close and sell West Ohio Camps will hurt and stunt the development of future leaders and families. While there is some value in VBS, and day camp activities etc., the benefits of residential camps surpasses what those can ever achieve. Such benefits include meeting people outside of your own home/community, identity formation that exists because one is away from home, spiritual formation that exists when we set aside time and space to listen to God’s call, and new activities that enhance creativity and call on courage to try new things. These and much more benefits of residential camps and retreats cannot be overemphasized! 

We urge the West Ohio Conference to consider the long-term impact of this decision and to find creative and sustainable ways to preserve West Ohio residential Camps for generations to come.

We, the undersigned, implore the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church to reconsider its decision to close and sell West Ohio Camps. Listen to the plea of those who have been positively impacted by West Ohio Camps and preserve such opportunities for future generations. Hearken ye to the Voice of Truth, Faith, and the three simple rules - "Do no harm. Do good. Stay in love with God." 

Remember your call to ministry, and let us work together to preserve the future of young Christian leaders and the communities they serve. We have a chance to make a decision that will affect generations to come, what would your legacy be? What would you be remembered for?

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." - Phillippians 4:8

We urge all those who value the camping ministry to stand with us and sign this petition to Save West Ohio Camps.

Sincerely,

Damilare Adeyeri