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.
Campers meet their host homes shortly after their arrival in central Louisiana. Submitted photo
“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 goal.”
Besides learning about God, the campers make new friends while getting to experience fun activities, local cuisine and a little bit of Louisiana culture, all of which is provided by the participating churches.
The children have three more days in Central Louisiana before departing for 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.
South Koreans and Americans enjoy a ride to one of many excursions in the Alexandria-Pineville area. Submitted photo
