By Message Staff CENTRAL LOUISIANA – If the church is unable to do international missions, bring international missions to the church. And for two weeks annually in mid-to-late July, Camp USA provides churches in Central Louisiana and Ponchatoula the opportunity to experience international missions without ever having to leave the state. Thirty South Korean children have joined with a large group of American children for a week-long Vacation Bible School as part of a partnership of REACH Missions and the Korea Baptist Church Development Board. Alpine First Baptist Church is hosting this year’s VBS July 16-20. Now in its 13th year, Camp USA involves more than 25 churches in the Cenla Baptist Association (formerly the Central and North Rapides associations) and First Baptist Church in Ponchatoula. “Our kids always look forward to it because it’s like having an international mission trip right here at Alpine,” said Lucas LaCour, pastor of Alpine First Baptist. “Our church loves to do outreach and this is a different way to accomplish it. “I love seeing the numerous volunteers and having an opportunity to get to know them throughout the week,” he continued. “It’s neat to see churches unified for a common … [Read more...]

By Message Staff CENTRAL LOUISIANA – Thirty South Korean children are experiencing a taste of American culture and the Gospel this July during the 13th annual Camp USA. A partnership of REACH Missions and the Korea Baptist Church Development Board, the camp involves more than 25 churches in Cenla Baptist Association (formerly Central and North Rapides associations) and First Baptist Church in Ponchatoula. During their first week that began July 14 and ends July 21, the children are participating in Vacation Bible School at Alpine First Baptist Church while also enjoying activities at other area churches and campsites. After their time in Central Louisiana, the campers will spend the remainder of their time in southeast Louisiana in the Ponchatoula area July 22-29. They will end their trip with a two-day excursion to Toronto, Canada, before leaving for home Aug. 1. “It’s one of the largest cooperative efforts that we have as an association,” said camp coordinator Susan Duke. “This is one of the tools we use to share God’s Word. The students come here and do Bible study, games and English classes. But in everything they do we are sharing God’s word and God’s love with them.” https://youtu.be/L3REIySatxE … [Read more...]