(Contributed photo)
As we prepare for Christmas and are in the midst of the season of Advent, it is hard to think about the warm summer months and kids enjoying their time at summer camp.
As time seems to go by so fast these days, summertime will be here before we know it and camp will be in session.
Camp Gray, one of America’s premier Catholic summer camps, is just one of the ministries that are supported by the Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA).
It is not only a summer camp but a year-round retreat center as well.
About the camp
Founded in 1953 by Msgr. Francis Xavier Gray, it is located on 225 acres in Reedsburg, where it is dedicated to enriching the spiritual lives of our youth while combining faith, friends, and fun.
Camp Gray’s mission is to invite people of all ages to encounter Jesus Christ in all creation, experience a fun and vibrant Catholic community, and be challenged to ever more deeply know, love, and serve God and neighbor.
Your gift to the ACA helps to make that mission become a reality.
Each year, monies raised through the ACA go to positively impact the lives of children and help to develop the future leaders of our Church.
If you know a child who has attended Camp Gray, chances are they can recount great memories with their friends and an amazing week where they were able to spend time in nature while deepening their Catholic faith.
As mentioned, Camp Gray doesn’t just shut down when the summer is over — its facilities also serve as a retreat center during the school year.
Retreats at Camp Gray are facilitated on everything from confirmation to team building and spiritual growth.
Groups are also invited to use the facilitates for things like family reunions, youth events, and different school activities.
Camp Gray is truly a great ministry of the Diocese of Madison.
Its facilities serve so many throughout the diocese and leave a lasting impression on many that visit.
Looking ahead
As we wrap up 2021 and look ahead to 2022, we again thank all of those who supported, prayed for, and made a gift to the 2021 ACA and ask you to pray for the success of the 2022 ACA.
If you have not had a chance to make a gift this year, visit https://madisondiocese.org/acagive
In the coming months, you will see more information regarding the upcoming 2022 ACA.
Watch your mailbox for more information and prayerfully consider making a gift to support the many ministries that are funded through the ACA.
Kristen Beckett is the director of annual appeals for the Diocese of Madison Office of Stewardship and Development.