2021 Ministry Updates: Rising Light Ridge

February 17th, 2022

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This past summer saw Rising Light Ridge launch its inaugural rustic summer camping program with more than 85 guests of all backgrounds and abilities. Campers participated in programming centered around the importance of community and the concept of "What does it really it mean to thrive?" We were also blessed to have six of the guests place their trust in Christ, three of whom were baptized on campus!

“Everyone is welcome, and everyone is celebrated because we are ALL made in the image of Christ. That is the essence of Rising Light Ridge. Everyone who comes and steps foot on that land will know that they are loved by the Creator of the universe who gave His son for us because He loves us that much.”

- Summer Camp Counselor

APPLY FOR RLR SUMMER STAFF

A Letter from the Mother of a 2021 RLR Camper

"I cannot begin to thank you for creating the perfect camp experience for our son, Nolan.

When Nolan was born, we heard a lot of what he "wouldn't" be able to do. Countless times from doctors, therapists, teachers, etc. We have endured hearing "he can't do." As you can imagine, the level of protection a parent will provide to keep a child safe from harshness is a lot.

From the time I first came across the Rising Light Ridge webpage, I was skeptical and immediately shutoff from thinking that Nolan would be able to join for a full week. As a protective parent, I didn't want to think about leaving him alone to hear "You can't." From the moment I spoke to you and all the camp counselors, I knew the loving, inclusive environment I would be sending Nolan to. They answered every one of my questions and calmed my fears. They have far exceeded my expectations.

The week that Nolan was supposed to attend camp, we suffered a massive flood in our area. I immediately contacted the camp and spoke with a staffer and told her that Nolan would not be able to attend camp. She talked to me for a few minutes, and she came up with a plan to have him come the next day.

Nolan was extremely excited. When we arrived at camp and checked in with the nursing station, I reminded her that Nolan should not drink milk as it is hard for him to digest. Her response was "we purchased him lactose-free milk." It was then that I knew my baby was in amazing hands! I remember writing it on his intake form during sign-up, but I never expected anyone to provide special milk. Usually, Nolan would just do without, but Rising Light Ridge was not having anyone at camp just "doing without."

Nolan had such an amazing time at Rising Light Ridge, he came home and immediately signed up for another week. This time, he brought along a friend. Nolan has made such great friends at camp whom I know will stay with him for a very long time to come.

The peaceful week on the property, spent with friends, away from screen time to enjoy the beautiful gifts of our Lord is just what everyone needs.

So again, thank you for allowing Nolan to have two amazing weeks with your wonderful team at Rising Light Ridge and for giving this "overprotective parent" peace of mind knowing our son was encouraged to join in the fun."

When fully realized, RLR will represent a tangible expression of the strategic ministry focuses of TTF by sharing Faith, Hope and Love through active ministry and a community of belonging celebrating ALL as God’s children and His image-bearers.