news article
Campfires, cleanup, and connection: Aldersgate Rally ignites hearts
June 17, 2025 / By Pastor Kevin Kitto, Lowville UMC
The Aldersgate Regional Rally Day was an incredible success, filled with joy, connection, and inspiration! Over the weekend, we witnessed the power of community as participants came together to celebrate, learn, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our youth.
Nearly 60 volunteers from a handful of local churches, including Lowville, Carthage, Champion, Natural Bridge, Beaver Falls, Turin, Martinsburg, and Constableville, pitched in to help get Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center ready for the start of camping season.
Saturday kicked off with Teen Rally Day in conjunction with Camp Cleanup Day and the whole place buzzed with excitement.
The "Operation Fresh Start" initiative brought camp creativity to a new level as volunteers tore apart the arts and crafts activities room and cleaned it from top to bottom. Our mission is to gather the supplies necessary to create projects that correlate with the Bible lessons the campers will be learning each week of camp.
The day concluded with a thoughtful learning session on gratitude, reminding everyone of the importance of appreciation in our lives.
As evening approached, the campfire was the perfect setting for storytelling and laughter, where participants enjoyed s’mores and shared their experiences, creating bonds that will surely last beyond the weekend.
The Service Planning Session empowered attendees to explore how they can contribute to the camp’s mission, sparking enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference.
Sunday radiated warmth and togetherness with our Family Praise & Worship Service, beautifully led by our worship team and young adults. The uplifting music and heartfelt scripture created a sense of unity and spiritual connection among families. The potluck luncheon was a delightful highlight, with an array of delicious dishes shared among friends, fostering a spirit of community.
The worship leaders' Sunday overnight retreat was an opportunity for reflection and to spark engaging discussions on how to inspire and uplift congregations, reminding leaders of the powerful role they play in their community.
As the weekend wrapped up on Monday, the morning brought a bright sunrise, and refreshing morning stretches and walks allowing participants to embrace the beauty of the natural surroundings of Camp Aldersgate.
Overall, the Aldersgate Regional Rally Days was a heartwarming celebration of faith, fellowship, and the potential to make a meaningful difference. Thank you to everyone who participated, shared, and contributed to making this weekend unforgettable! We look forward to seeing the lasting impacts of this experience as we continue to support our youth and grow together as a community.
Churches interested in hosting worship services, rally days, or group overnights, should email office@aldersgateny.org to make arrangements.