Camp 2026 is a Wrap!

A huge thank-you to everyone who served on staff and helped make our Regional Camp programs possible this summer! Whether you led a small group, planned activities, prepared meals, offered encouragement, handled the behind-the-scenes details, or simply made sure every camper felt welcomed and loved, your ministry made a difference.

Across the region, our overall participation numbers were up at NEOLA/MUP at Camp Jo-Ota, North West Camp at Crowder, Faith Adventures, and Canoe Camp. We are grateful to see more young people experiencing Christian community, growing in their faith, developing leadership skills, building lasting friendships, and discovering that they are deeply loved by God.

The impact of camp is not limited to our youth. Those who serve often leave changed as well—renewed by the relationships they formed, inspired by the faith of our young people, and reminded of what God can do when we serve together. Thank you for the time, energy, patience, creativity, and love you shared. Because of you, our Outdoor Ministries continue to be places where lives are touched, faith is strengthened, and God’s presence is experienced.

Women Empowering Women

On Monday, August 10^th we met in Hannibal for our 7^th Women Empowering Women event hosted by Willow Street CC and Second Christian New London. Twenty-eight women ministers and ministry supporters gathered for a vibrant full-day gathering of fellowship, shared meals, deep spiritual connection, and affirmation. These dedicated events provide essential spaces for women in leadership to rest, recharge, and build resilient networks of spiritual and accountability partners. Our next event is scheduled for Monday November 9^th, 2026. The location has yet to be decided. Possible locations will be presented and announced soon. 

FCC El Dorado Springs in Leadership Cohort

In addition to Willow Street Christian Church participating in the the first Phillips Theological Seminary Town & Country Leadership Project cohort (announced last week), First Christian Church in El Dorado Springs will be joining the cohort.

Throughout 2027 and 2028, the group will participate in three learning sessions, receive monthly mentoring, and implement a ministry-enhancing initiative supported by a $5,000 mini-grant. Their application required endorsement from Associate Regional Minister Rev. Jennifer Long, which she gladly provided. Congratuations!

New Anti-Racism Book Study Begins September 14

All are welcome to join in a free, online, eight-week book study brought to us by our Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciling Justice Ministries team. We will discuss Separation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang on eight Monday evenings between September 14 and February 8. Learn more and register here>

In this week's Justice newsletter, Associate Regional Minister Rev. Angela Williams shares from the recent Digital Assembly about “Economic Justice.” Disciples are doing ministry across the US and Canada while facing rising utility costs, insurance rates, healthcare costs, and other economic challenges. The communities we love and serve are also facing economic challenges. Read her summary of the small group questions and answers shared on this topic here>