JOURNEY WITH JEFF: Busy Time of the Year

For as long as I can remember (especially the last 26 years since I began serving in student ministry), the summer months are full of events like church camp, Vacation Bible School, SOAR and mission trips. These are times when I have seen God move in the lives of students (and adults) in some amazing ways. Even though I am no longer serving on the staff of a church as a student pastor, I am blessed to be able to continue to be a part of these events.

BMA Church Camp 2023

BMA Church Camp was started in 1978 by a group of pastors, mostly of the Greenbrier Local Association. My dad, the late Harrel Herring, was one of those pastors. He had a heart for camp ministry and loved to see young people make their decision to follow Christ at an early age. He continued to serve on the BMA Youth Camp Board in some capacity until his health prevented him from doing so.

I have been blessed to serve on the camp board in a variety of roles, but most recently as the camp director for over 20 years. Last week, June 19-22, we enjoyed a great week at camp and saw 17 young people make a profession of faith in Christ while at camp. Another blessing is that my brother, John, served as assistant director this year. It was a joy to work together in something we both know meant so much to Dad. I am thankful to those that allow me to continue to serve the camp, even though it takes some creative planning to get the paper out while attending camp!

Some Time Away

In the midst of all the business of summer, it can be difficult to find some time to get away with my family. In the best-case scenario, we are able to plan a getaway around the times when we do not have a paper to get out for the week. This year, due to all our schedules, this is the only week we were able to plan some time to be away.

While we are enjoying out time together, that means two weeks in a row getting the paper out while being out of the normal routine. I am thankful for Associate Editor Allan Eakin and Editor Emeritus Diane Spriggs for always being ready to help when needed, and especially adjusting to make sure things get done and the Trumpet still goes out.

Special Emphasis Update

I wanted to share an update on where we stand as we approach the end of our fiscal year. We count all funds received by then (Aug. 31) toward our goal. If you or your church have not given, would you prayerfully consider giving to help us close out the year 100% funded for these needs?

2023 Special Emphasis • Goal — $30,000 Previous Balance (May 24) $21,387.16

Calvary Baptist Church, White Hall $1,470.00

Hershel Conley $50.00

Total $22,907.16