The future of the Presbyterian Camps in Saugatuck, MI and the potential sale of the Presbyterian Camps are being considered. The LCC is proposing to purchase the Presbyterian Camps in order to provide a viable option that will allow the ministry and tradition of the Presbyterian Camps to be preserved.
As the LCC shares the proposal with friends of the camp, congregation members, ministers, elders, and individuals who love the camp, we have received a number of letters of support for our proposal to preserve the Presbyterian Camps.
In an effort to be transparent, and to share the concerns of the individuals who make up the Presbyterian Churches in the Chicagoland area, the LCC would like to share a few of these letters of support on our web site. If you would like to provide a letter of support to the LCC please e-mail your letter of support to: info@prescampsforever.org
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To: Chicago Presbytery Pastors
From: Robert C. Reynolds, Executive Presbyter
Subject: Lakeshore Christian Camping Fundraising
At the April 13 Presbytery Assembly meeting, the Presbytery Council was authorized to negotiate a purchase agreement with Lakeshore Christian Camping, Inc. (Lakeshore) for the sale of Presbyterian Camps in Saugatuck, Michigan. Presbytery Council approved the agreement earlier this week.
This is a major milestone for the Presbytery that promises to preserve the property in perpetuity as a natural resource and as a retreat and camping resource for Chicago Presbytery churches. In addition, the transaction to be completed in about ninety days will bring $8.6 million for a timely payment on the Presbytery’s outstanding indebtedness. Additional funds may be forth coming in the years ahead through conservation easement to be shared by the Presbytery and Lakeshore Christian Camping.
Lakeshore leaders are faithful Chicago area Presbyterians deeply committed to the camping ministry. They have a vision for the camp that includes expanded multi-generational programming and capital development. Their business plan is creative and comprehensive. The Presbytery Council’s unanimous vote expressed strong hope that God will bless this ministry where children and adults can grow in faith and fellowship.
Although a major source of funds for this purchase will come from bank loan(s), Lakeshore will be seeking charitable pledges and gifts from churches, individuals, and other sources. They may be contacting you in the near future to present their vision and to ask for support. I hope you and your church’s leaders will welcome them and consider contributing to this camping ministry, even as you continue current mission commitments.
We believe in God of abundance who guides faithful people to be fruitful in God’s mission. The camping ministry in Saugatuck has renewed potential to bear fruit under Lakeshore’s ownership. Like many other ministries, they need the support of the Presbyterian financial stewardship.
Thank you. May God bless your congregations and your ministries!