Where Stories Begin – Youth Summer Camps 2026
One of my favorite hymns is “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” As a kid the lyrics “here I raise my Ebenezer” confused me. How did Scrooge get into this hymn? But as an adult I understand the importance and significance of the Ebenezer. In 1 Samuel 7:12-13 the prophet Samuel took a rock and placed it between Mizpah and Shen. He called this rock Ebenezer, which means “Stone of Help.” This rock was placed there for the people to remember God’s faithfulness and salvation. It was so the Israelites would never forget what God had done for them and how God worked in their lives.
An Ebenezer from my life is the Rocky Creek Nazarene Campgrounds in Pineville, Louisiana. This campground was not fancy. We had a creek that you couldn’t use because of leeches. We barely had a baseball field, and services were in an open air tabernacle with heat and mosquitos. Yet, it was in that sacred space and sacred time where God did deep transformation work in my life. I was sanctified and called to ministry there.
This summer we are moving our teen camp to our own district campground, Hocking Hills Retreat Center. I am excited that our students will experience a sacred time and sacred space, like I did, at our own SCO campground. My hope is that HHRC will be their Ebenezer—a place where they encountered God and said “Yes” to Jesus. As the years pass, our students will remember what God did in their hearts and lives, along with the commitments they made while at teen camp.
Emma Hetzler is a high schooler, and she attends Pickerington Church of the Nazarene. She loves SCO NYI and makes it a priority to be involved as much as possible. I asked her why she loves camp so much and she said. “I love camp because it truly allows you to take a break and separate yourself from the usual stress in life. Camp gives you time to reset your focus on Christ and grow closer to Him surrounded by people your age. The worship is amazing, and there are so many fun games as well, like paint war. However, if you open your heart to God, He moves in a way that will leave a lasting impact on your life forever.”
Last summer God moved in many ways. Emma said, “I was going through a rough time in my life before I came to summer camp. However, God met me right where I was, even on night one. He moved in ways that I definitely did not expect, but it was what I needed. I know that God not only renewed my heart but also the hearts of my youth group friends. I left feeling true freedom and grace from a good God and further prepared to follow God’s calling for my life.” Emma’s is one testimony of many.
This summer, SCO NYI is hosting both a Middle School Camp (completed grades 6th–8th) and a High School Camp (completed grades 9th–12th) at our Hocking Hills Retreat Center. Middle School Camp will take place June 14–17, 2026, followed by High School Camp on June 17–20, 2026. Our theme, “Into the Wilderness,” will explore the transformational work God can do in our hearts when we find ourselves in the wilderness. Our speakers and camp pastors are Pastor Serena Kleppinger and Pastor Josh Porterfield. Registration opens April 18, with a deadline of May 31. The cost is $150 per camper and $200 per counselor attending both camps. Our Camp Director is Pastor Gary Webb.
In ten years, I can’t wait to hear the stories of Ebenezers from people across our district from their week at summer camp 2026. Stones of remembrance, not made of rock, but of a sacred time and place where God stirred their hearts, transformed lives, and called students to ministry. My hope is that generations look at Hocking Hills Retreat Center and remember the goodness, faithfulness, and grace of God. And like Samuel’s Ebenezer, may their testimonies be echoes of how God has loved them well.
Pastor Christina McCully
SCO NYI President
Middle-School Camp June 14 – 17
High-School Camp June 17 – 20
4th – 6th Grade July 19 – 22
1st – 3rd Grade July 23 – 25
Faith, Fun, and Codes to Crack: SCO Naz Kids Camp 2026
SCO Naz Kids Camp is back for its 18th year at Camp Cotubic, and this year’s theme is “Cracking the Code.” With two sessions—July 19-22 for 4th-6th graders, and July 23-25 for 1st-3rd graders—the camp is packed with fun activities and opportunities for spiritual growth. Over 300 kids and chaperones from across the district churches will gather at this home away from home to unlock the mysteries of faith and build deeper connections with each other and with God.
Campers can look forward to a wide range of exciting activities, including boating, fishing, climbing the rock wall, and the giant swing. Archery, Gaga ball, water games, and swimming in the lake add even more fun to the schedule. As part of the “Cracking the Code” theme, kids will also engage in time at the prayer station, mission station, and meaningful chapel services, where they will discover how to unlock the deeper truths of their faith.
A special thanks to Pastor Jenn Ballenger, our district Camp Director, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping this camp experience. Her dedication to both fun and faith has helped make SCO Naz Kids Camp a place where kids not only play, but grow in their relationship with Jesus.
We praise God for the many blessings experienced during camp week. His goodness is evident! Faith grows stronger, friendships take root, and lives are transformed.
Tiffany Mason
Director Children & Families
Pickerington Church
NEWS FROM ACROSS THE DISTRICT
Ironton First Church
It was a blessing to join Pastor Rob and Lori Hale at Ironton First this past Sunday. Their 18 years of dedicated leadership continue to strengthen the church and our SCO district family.
Retirement Announced
Pastor Chuck (Donna) Wilson has announced his retirement from pastoring Lower Lights Community, effective May 24, 2026. Pastor Chuck has faithfully served Lower Lights as lead pastor since 2017.
Redemption City
Congratulations to Pastor Jeff (Raquel) Clay and the Redemption City church board on a positive six-year Church/Pastoral Relationship Review. We are grateful for God’s blessing on pastor and church.
SCO Youth BLAST
District Blast was once again a reminder of God’s presence in the lives of our SCO teens. Being able to witness some participate in competitions they have been doing for years, as well as seeing others compete in events for the very first time, was truly special. Continue to pray that the gifts and talents our teens put on display will make their way out into the world, where their faith can be shared through them. It’s more than just medals and applause—it’s all about Building Leaders And Sharing Talents for the Lord!
Thank you to all the volunteers that helped make this happen!
SCO CHILDREN’S QUIZZING
It’s inspiring to see so many children diving into the book of Genesis, hiding God’s Word in their hearts and building a strong foundation of faith. Their enthusiasm and dedication are a powerful reminder that seeds planted early can grow into a lifelong relationship with Christ.
This ministry wouldn’t be possible without the many pastors and volunteers who faithfully teach, guide, and encourage these young learners each week. Their investment is making an eternal impact.
A special thank-you to April Litman and her team for their leadership and commitment to this vital ministry across the district.
Together, we are shaping the next generation—one verse at a time.
SCO District Assembly Ordination Service
Sunday, April 26 – Childcare
We’re pleased to offer childcare during the Ordination Service this year for children who are potty trained through 4th grade. To ensure we’re ready to care for your child, please complete the required registration here:
If you have any questions, contact Darla Batson at dbatson@sconaz.org.
April 18 NMI/NYI Conventions
Below is your guide for the day.
LDI – Training with Dr. Stan Reeder
Crucial Conversations
We’re excited to have Dr. Stan Reeder, USA/Canada Regional Director, join us on Tuesday, August 11 to help us through the art of navigating crucial conversations both within the church and beyond. His insight and leadership will make this an invaluable LDI experience.
Register below – you don’t want to miss this important training day!
Crucial Conversations with Dr. Stan Reeder – South Central Ohio District
Ministry Team Retreat
October 2-4, 2026
We’re thrilled to share that our next Ministry Team Retreat is set for October 2–4 in the peaceful beauty of Amish Country. We are honored to welcome Rev. Dale Schaeffer (Steph), District Superintendent of the Florida District, as our guest speaker for the weekend.
Prepare for a meaningful time of rest, fellowship, and spiritual renewal. It’s the perfect opportunity to step away from the busyness of ministry. Watch for additional information and registration coming soon.
RESOURCE HIGHLIGHTS
Available Missionary Speaker
This summer Dr. Rev. Gabriel Benjamin, an Africa Region Missionary, is traveling throughout the East Ohio District and is looking to speak in other districts in Ohio during the month of June. If you’re interested in having him speak at your church please contact Carol Lee Carpenter at carolleec7@gmail.com and she can help you make that connection.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness:
Practical Steps to Achieve Loan Forgiveness Workshop
Tuesday, May 19th at 9 pm (EST)
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is a federal student loan program that forgives the remaining balance of any federal student loan after 120 payments for borrowers who work in the public sector-including pastors! However, too many pastors have struggled to access PSLF due to the program’s complexity.
This 1-hour workshop, sponsored by The COMPASS Initiative, is designed to teach pastors how to:
- Start counting qualifying payments
- Ensure that payments meet program requirements
- Understand what counts as qualifying employment
- Request loan forgiveness after making 120 payments
Space is limited so follow this link to register today! Unfortunately, this workshop cannot be recorded for later viewing so please sign up today!
SCO Camp Meeting July 12-19, 2026
Camp Meeting, held at the HHRC, is the can’t‑miss week of the summer—a powerful, family‑focused experience hosted by our district. Every day is packed with inspiring worship, uplifting messages fun activities, and meaningful connection for every age. It’s a chance to step away from the routine, recharge spiritually, and create unforgettable memories together in a Christ‑centered environment.
April 18: NMI/NYI Convention – Circleville Heritage Church
April 17 – 18: MVNU Women’s Auxiliary Spring Conference
April 26: SCO Ordination Service – The Naz (Grove City) Childcare registration here:
April 27: SCO District Assembly – The Naz (Grove City)
May 9: MVNU Graduation
May 16: Missions Workshop – HHRC
June 14 – 17: Middle School Camp – HHRC (completed 6th grade through completed 8th)
June 17 – 20: High School Camp – HHRC (completed 9th grade through completed 12th)
July 1 – 7: Nazarene Youth Conference (NYC)
July 12 – 19: District Camp Meeting
July 19 – 22: Children’s Camp (4th through 6th grade)
July 23 – 25: Children’s Camp (1st through 3rd grade)
August 11: Crucial Conversations – HHRC Register here:
Crucial Conversations with Dr. Stan Reeder – South Central Ohio District
October 2 – 4: Ministry Team Retreat (MTR) Amish Country
Pastor Bill (Laura) Roth (McArthur) as he undergoes chemotherapy for cancer.
Pray with us that God will help us plant many new congregations in the next 5
years, both within the I-270 outer belt and across the district. Who might God be
calling? Where might God be calling?
A Prayer Guide for District Assembly:
March 31 – District Secretary, Kevin Angel, as he prepares reports for district assembly
April 1 – That our pastors’ ministries will be marked by both faithfulness and fruitfulness
April 2 – General Superintendent, Christian Sarmiento, as speaker and presiding JGS
April 3 – A passion to reach The One
April 4 – Sustaining Circles-that God would make them a source of spiritual support and sustenance for our ministers
April 5 – That our worship will lift up Jesus and glorify God
April 6 – A vision to start multicultural works
April 7 – NMI President, Carol Lee Carpenter, as she leads our district NMI
April 8 – NMI/NYI Conventions, April 18
April 9 – NDI President Dan Meek, as he leads this important discipleship arm of the church.
April 10 – That our NYI delegates will catch a fresh vision for what God wants to accomplish through the youth
April 11 – NYI President, Christina McCully, as she leads our district NYI
April 12 – A commitment to seeing our churches grow strong and healthy
April 13 – Leaders of our Multicultural Ministry
Cornerstone – Dr. Greg Mason, Interim Pastor
South Point – Rev. Wayne Searls, Interim Pastor
Lower Lights Community – Dr. Dennis King, Interim Pastor (effective May 31)
QUICK LINKS
SCO District Website Mount Vernon Nazarene University
SCO District Calendar LifeLong Learning Registry
SCO District NDI Give via CDM – Online
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