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ECCC's monthly Newsletter featuring stories from around the Episcopal Camp and Conference Center world, highlighting of the amazing ministry going on in our vibrant and vital community. | | |
This summer, I had the joy of visiting three camps and filming promo videos for them. Spending more than a quick day or two gave me the gift of truly experiencing the power of camp ministry across the Church.
In June, I served as chaplain at Waycross in the Diocese of Indiana, where I participated in a ceremony that has been held since 1957—a tradition that continues to shape generations of campers. At Camp Hardtner, I witnessed a staff member choose to be baptized because of the transformation that camp had made in her life. And at Camp Huston, I had the chance to film a music video for a song written by one of their own staff members, capturing the creativity and spirit that camp inspires.
Each of these moments reminded me that camp is more than just a summer program—it’s a ministry of formation, belonging, and joy that changes lives in unique and lasting ways. I am deeply grateful to be part of these stories and to help share them with the world.
-Jess
| | | Stories from Camp Sessions Across the Church | |
We're in the heart of summer camp season and are sending you a postcard filled with stories of fun, challenge, and sweat. Check out what has been going on at Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers across the church by visiting our Instagram round-up page. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the joy and activity across our ministries in one convenient place.
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We are deeply saddened to share the news of the sudden passing of Buddy Payne, a beloved leader in the Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers community.
Buddy grew up in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, and gave his life to the ministry of camps and young people. For more than 15 years he served in a variety of roles at Trinity Center and Camp Trinity in the Diocese of East Carolina. Most recently Buddy joined the leadership team at DaySpring Camp & Conference Center in the Diocese of Southwest Florida as Director of Camp and Outdoors, bringing his creativity, joy, and deep love of the outdoors to every camper and colleague he encountered.
An avid fisherman, kayaker, pun-master, and lifelong youth minister, Buddy was known as a “jack-of-all-trades,” but his true gift was creating spaces of belonging and joy where young people felt seen, loved, and free to grow. He poured himself into the work of camp and into the lives of campers, staff, and colleagues who will carry his legacy forward.
We give thanks for Buddy’s life and ministry, and we hold his parents, Janet and Stukie, Trinity Center, DaySpring, and all who loved him in our prayers. His impact will live on in the camps and centers he served so faithfully, and in the generations of young people whose lives were shaped by his care.
| | | | | Looking for somewhere to host your next gathering? Check out the ECCC Directory to find information about our member centers and the variety of accomodations available at Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers for local, regional, and national meetings or events. | | | |
Every campfire burns brighter because of the people gathered around it—and the same is true for ECCC. Your generosity makes it possible for us to equip leaders, strengthen centers, and ensure our camps remain places of welcome, care, and transformation.
As we move into the next season of ministry, we invite you to deepen your support. A gift today helps us continue building communities where hospitality, justice, and joy shine for all God’s people.
Thank you for being part of this circle of light. Together, we keep the fire burning.
| | What has ECCC been up to? | | |
2026 Annual Conference Theme:
The Power of Storytelling
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At this coming year’s ECCC Annual Conference, we’ll explore the power of storytelling in all its forms.
From the campfire to the boardroom, stories help us share the “why” behind what we do. They capture moments of growth, belonging, and spirit-filled wonder. They create memories that ripple far beyond the summer.
We’ll learn how storytelling can be a powerful tool for fundraising, relationship-building, advocacy, and ministry—and how our stories reveal the sacred work unfolding in Episcopal camps and conference centers.
Join us as we learn to tell our stories with intention and impact—celebrating the sacred stories that sustain and connect our Episcopal network.
| | | ECCC celebrates Kanuga Fellows Program | The Rev. Laura Rezac (St. Christopher’s) and The Rev. Jess Elfring‑Roberts (ECCC) have been selected as Kanuga Fellows in the Kanuga Fellows Program (KFP). This two-year leadership residency forms and equips spiritually grounded leaders through in-person retreats, time in nature, and shared reflection. Rooted in Episcopal tradition and inspired by God’s creation, the program integrates spiritual growth with practical leadership development. Fellows gather four times at Kanuga, building a diverse community committed to leading with wisdom, grace, and purpose. | | | The Rev. Laura Rezac is the Executive Director of St. Christopher's Camp and Conference Center in Seabrook Island, SC | | The Rev. Jess Elfring-Roberts is the Executive Director or Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers. | | What do we have coming up? | | Exciting Offerings Coming this Fall | |
Keep up to date with ECCC programs and offerings by visiting our website. We are in the midst of exciting program planning for the Fall including:
Leaders Circle | Workshops designed for all who wish to learn and grow in their leadership development.
Setting the Table | A conference for the holy hospitality of food service, maintenance, and guest services. December 15th - 18th, Bellwether Farm, OH.
Program Summit | Bringing together summer camp professionals for an exciting opportunity to reflect on the past summer, exchange resources, cultivate innovation, build connections, and enjoy a sense of community. November 7-9, Lake Logan, NC.
| | | Founded in 1989, ECCC’s mission is to support and advocate for the ministry and vitality of Episcopal camps and conference centers. | | | | |
