The Francis Asbury Society was honored again this fall to host holiness camp meeting presidents from across several states for a season of inspiration, encouragement, learning, and prayer. Dr. Timothy Tennent, president of Asbury Theological Seminary, opened our first session with a reflection on the historic witness of the holiness message across the land from the call and ministry of Francis Asbury to our modern-day holiness camp meetings. Dr. Sandy Gray graciously hosted our group to lunch at Asbury University following her Christmas message during chapel in Hughes Auditorium. Following lunch, several participants visited the Holiness Camp Meeting exhibit in the archives of Asbury Seminary. Dr. John Oswalt challenged the group to respond to the key question in helping people connect with the holiness message today: Do we believe that God can purify the human heart? We deeply appreciated morning devotionals from Stan Key and Al Coppedge, and Rhonda Holton, representing Titus Women, as she inspired and led us to embrace the “roar” of prayer—fervent prayer that comes from a passion for holy living.
Reflecting on the time we shared, here are a few comments from our participants:
- “Expectations were exceeded—please continue!”
- “I want to bring other leaders with me next year.”
- “Please consider counseling for camps upon request.”
- “I thoroughly enjoyed the excellent presentations. I feel like I have been to a retreat.”
- “We feel as we were treated as royalty.”
- “More time needed for discussion with camp leaders.”
- “Not in December.”
We will continue the conversation about this gathering, particularly whether this should be an annual or bi-annual event and what is the best location. As always, we are deeply appreciative to the staff and leadership of FAS who provide excellent service and support for these gatherings.