Jacob also went on his way, and the angels of God met him. When Jacob saw them, he said, “This is the camp of God!” So he named that place Mahanaim. ~ Genesis 32:1

I have written about many things over the last 13 years, but I’m not sure I have written much about camp. But this month, I want to spend a few moments talking about the Christian Conference Center—the Christian Church (DOC) space in Newton, Iowa. This is the church camp, retreat center, and office space for the Disciples congregations in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, and has been serving the Christian Church since 1967. This camp sits in almost 200 acres of woods and prairie grass and offers so much more than just summer church camp.

Some of you know the Christian Conference Center—intimately. Some of those among us met there, and eventually got married. Some of those among us have counseled camp for decades. Some of those among us have been host/hostess for a weekend, showing guests around, making sure everything is in order. Some of those among us have attended clergy retreats and continuing education events during the coldest time of the year. Some of those among us have spent countless hours volunteering by building, cleaning, sorting, and whatever other odd jobs need done to make the camp what it is. Some of those among us have spent evenings there as campers, enjoying the activities and festivities, and learning what it means to be a follower of Christ among others from various parts of the Midwest.

We have heard from Camden Daily and the Marvin kids in August, as well as Amy and Autumn Dowell and Jim and Sharon Perreault about their experiences at camp this year.

But for those among us who have never been there, let me tell you a little bit more about why this place is so sacred, and loved by so many.

The Conference Center is available for various groups to rent—weddings, anniversaries, family reunions, and so much more. They have hotel-style rooms, bunk cabins, and RV and tent camping available. On the 200+ acres, there are 5 miles of hiking trails, miniature golf, sand volleyball, outdoor swimming pool, fishing, private man-made lake, canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, paddle boards and more. There really is something for everyone!

i want to share some of the things that are taking place on this Holy Ground during 2026: multiple weddings, Pella Men’s Retreat, scrapbooking events, volunteer Saturdays (once a month), multiple quilting groups, multiple Scout groups, family reunions, clergy retreats, graduation parties, Midwest K-9 training, and more.

Just like everything else, it takes money to keep a place like this kept up, beautiful, and relevant. They are always in need of donations (if you are interested, there is a wish list on the bulletin board by the office!).

Later this fall, for the first time ever, the Christian Conference Center will host a fundraising event. Watch for details, as maybe we can get a group together to attend!

My goal is to plan a day, or retreat, next year for us to go as a church and spend some time on this Holy Ground.

On behalf of those whom you have supported to be able to attend camps, THANK YOU. On behalf of the Christian Conference Center, for all of the donations—time, talent, treasure, and other—THANK YOU!

Always Peace,
Pastor Heidi