Camp Joy director Joel Ibanez (Photo courtesy of AMG)
Thailand (MNN) ― The work of an important camp ministry in Thailand is in jeopardy, but a generous donor has stepped forward to fill the pressing need and keep the camp in operation through the end of this year.
Located in Nan Province in northern Thailand, AMG International's Camp Joy serves many people year-round, including children, youth, seniors, farmers, and English camps. Campers enjoy good food, rousing outdoor activities, and biblical instruction.
One student remembers visiting Camp Joy for the first time when she was in Grade 4.
"I felt accepted, loved and important," the student recalled. "We were taught at camp that the Lord Jesus Christ died on the cross on behalf of sinners and that those who receive Him will not perish but have everlasting life. It was interesting, but it never really meant anything serious to me."
The student's involvement with AMG's ministries continued through high school, and finally the crucial decision was made. A houseparent shared the Gospel with the student, who finally understood how much it meant, and became a Christian. Now, this student has finished teacher's college and has become a teacher in the Primary Department of AMG's "By Grace School."
"It is now my desire to see my students attend Camp Joy so that they, too, will experience what I experienced," the teacher said.
Missionary Joel Ibañez leads the ministry of Camp Joy, unfazed by the opposition of the Buddhist neighbors that surround the camp. Some of the more radical neighbors have made threats such as "We will bury you," but this does not stop Ibañez, who has been serving the Lord in Thailand for almost 30 years.
The facilities at Camp Joy are beautiful but well-used. A donor has pledged a matching gift of $15,000 to raise the $30,000 needed for operations. This will double every gift you give to keep Camp Joy running.
