Endure in Every Season
This past weekend, nearly 50 Single-Parent and Blended families gathered for a Family Camp experience. These three days were marked by powerful stories, honest conversations, and special moments that reflected the weekend’s core theme: Endure.
From the very beginning, it was clear that God was present and moving. One of the most memorable moments came during Saturday morning’s opening session. As Philip and Elizabeth Varjas stood before a room full of parents and shared how God carried them through hardships, the atmosphere shifted. You could feel the weight of their testimony and the hope it carried. Parents leaned in and were encouraged by the reminder that even in the hardest moments, God is near and faithful.
Later that morning, families broke into specific groups led by trusted leaders who understood their unique journeys. In these breakouts, many opened up and processed what the theme meant for their family dynamic.
The weekend continued with plenty of fun. In the afternoon, family activities like the ropes course, fishing, putt-putt, and swimming brought smiles to both parents and kids. Saturday night offered a much-needed moment of rest and connection for parents as they enjoyed an Ice Cream Social following a meaningful session led by Tim Young.
But it was Sunday morning’s Family Session that truly brought the theme full circle. With a compelling visual that illustrated the enduring power of God’s Word, families were reminded that when everything else fades, the Word of God endures forever (Isaiah 40:8). And through Christ, we too can endure.
Throughout the weekend, God worked in remarkable ways. Families who arrived burdened and worn down were left with renewed joy and peace. Several parents shared that this weekend was exactly what they needed. Many confessed they had been holding back in their faith because of pain, but chose to surrender those struggles to Christ. Others made a renewed commitment to lead their children spiritually, even through difficult circumstances. Some took practical steps to get more connected at their campus Life Bible Studies, longing for continued growth, connection, and accountability.
One of the most encouraging signs of God’s movement was seeing new friendships take root. Families realized they were not alone, as others were walking similar paths. In both small and significant ways, the weekend became a reminder of the strength found in community and the hope anchored in Christ.
As families return to their everyday routines, our hope and prayer is that they carry with them this unshakable truth: God’s Word endures forever. And because of that, no matter the season or struggle, endurance is possible. We pray they also carry the relationships formed as they continue to grow in faith, trust, and perseverance.
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Family Camp Weekend Schedule
Friday
Saturday
Morning Parent Session: Testimony from Philip & Elizabeth
Breakout Sessions:
• Single Parents (led by Laura Dougharty)
• Blended & Foster/Adoptive Couples (led by Dr. Mark Mayfield)
• Special Needs Families (led by Jordan Cason)
Afternoon Family Activities: Ropes course, putt-putt, swimming, fishing, etc.
Evening: Parents-only Ice Cream Social with Tim Young
Sunday
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A weekend like this does not just happen on its own. It was made possible by the faithful leadership and behind-the-scenes dedication of many. A special thank you goes to Joe Dougharty and Amber Willet, whose commitment to this ministry helped create a space where families could be refreshed, restored, and reminded of God's enduring love.