GREENCASTLE–Ministry leaders, supporters, summer staff and Leadership Training Program students at Joy El Camps and Retreats recently celebrated a step of faith with a ground-breaking ceremony for the Shepherds Lodge.
”Joy El is a God-ordained organization used to bring thousands to faith in Jesus Christ. Its heritage has prompted the community and supporters to provide funds to complete a new Welcome Center, a renovated Dining Hall and, by this summer, the Shepherds Lodge,” said Dick Marks, campaign chair. “By then, we expect that we will have raised over $3 million. This is truly a work of the Lord.”
The Shepherds Lodge will be a place that summer staff will be able to get much needed rest in a place to call their own. Twelve summer staff were represented using golden shovels to dig the first holes where the building will stand.
The Shepherds Lodge will also be used for a refuge for speakers and guests during the rest of the year. Gregg Garman, Campaign Honorary Chair, expressed his excitement that this project is happening. “This is a great addition and will make an impact to the whole camp. More families will be reached and more children will come to know Christ,” Garman said.
Construction will begin in December and a June dedication is expected. The Shepherds Lodge is $373,570 away from being fully funded. For more information about Joy El and its programs, visit their websites at www.joyelcamps.org and www.joyelgeneration.org.
