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What made the demonstration at Annual Conference in support of immigrants especially meaningful was the participation of young people. Youth and young adults walked alongs…
Posted: July 20 2026 at 12:00 AM
Author: Payton Keithly, JOY Camp Director
Worship is part of the camp experience.
JOY Camp 2026 was another amazing year of fun, fellowship, and praise as 61 campers and 27 volunteer counselors gathered June 21-27 at Camp Reynoldswood in Dixon, Ill. Blessed with beautiful weather throughout the week, campers enjoyed everything from crafts, climbing trees, and canoeing to worship, games, and spending time with friends old and new.
JOY stands for Jesus, Others, and Yourself, with this year’s programming placing a special emphasis on Jesus. Campers explored the life of Christ through daily Bible lessons, beginning with the words, “In the beginning was the Word…” (John 1:1) and following his life through the Gospels to the Great Commission. Along the way, they learned about Old Testament prophecies pointing to Jesus and heard firsthand accounts of his ministry, miracles, death, and resurrection. The week’s theme song, "Jesus Loves" by Zach Williams, reinforced the message of Christ’s unconditional love and served as a joyful reminder throughout the week.
“JOY Camp has had an immeasurable impact on my own faith and it continues to positively impact the lives of our campers," said Payton Keithly, current JOY Camp Director and former camper. "Campers leave transformed and are encouraged to share the love they have experienced with the rest of the world.”
Campers enjoyed canoeing.
Each day included opportunities for worship, music, Bible study, recreation, and small-group fellowship, giving campers meaningful ways to grow in their faith while building lasting friendships. Whether paddling a canoe, creating crafts, singing around the camp, or simply sharing conversations with cabinmates, campers experienced God’s love in both big and small moments.
JOY Camp is dedicated to helping campers explore their faith in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. The ministry strives to build a community that reflects God’s grace for everyone while encouraging campers to strengthen their relationship with Christ and deepen their understanding of what it means to love others as Jesus loves us. Camp also offers a chance to disconnect from everyday routines, enjoy God’s beautiful creation, and experience the joy of Christian community.
The memories of JOY Camp 2026 will continue long after the week has ended. A closing video celebrating the week’s activities and worship can be viewed on YouTube.
For more information about JOY Camp, visit joycamp.org. Questions, comments, or requests can be emailed.