Camp Amerikraine

In the heart of a war-torn nation, where the Church of Christ in Ukraine stands as the largest and most vibrant Christian community in Europe, Camp Amerikraine has emerged as a crucial gathering for believers seeking unity, spiritual renewal, and practical ministry guidance. Established in 2022, this family-oriented Christian camp has become a haven where Ukrainian Christians from all walks of life come together as a spiritual family, bringing with them their children, elderly relatives, and the shared burden of a nation at war.

Camp Amerikraine’s mission is more vital than ever. With the ongoing war, the camp serves as a place of refuge and encouragement for Christians facing unimaginable hardships. It offers resources and examples for ministry, demonstrating how to handle Vacation Bible Schools, youth ministries, and the broader challenges of strengthening the church in these difficult times. The camp also invites some of the most experienced and skilled ministers from around the world to lead master classes, tackling difficult topics that Ukrainian congregations need to address.

This year, the camp saw 140 participants in Warsaw, Poland—Ukrainians who had fled their homes as refugees—and 310 campers in Lviv, Ukraine, where the relative safety of the western region allowed for a larger gathering. The camp, which primarily serves elderly participants alongside mid-aged families and their children, provides a unique space where all members of the family can engage in spiritual growth together.

Camp Amerikraine’s programs are rich and varied. This year, the camp featured Becky Kelly, who offered master classes on psychology, focusing on resolving family conflicts exacerbated by the war. Mike Hoots, a scientist from NASA, provided evidence of creation from a scientific standpoint, while Stan Bryan and his team worked to enhance congregational a cappella singing. These programs, along with inspirational sermons from skilled preachers, are designed to promote the future of the Ukrainian church, both during and after the war.

The camp is responsive to the evolving needs of its participants, particularly those shaped by the ongoing conflict. By addressing topics such as fear, hope, and the spiritual needs brought about by war, Camp Amerikraine helps participants find comfort and strength in their faith. The camp also fosters a sense of community by encouraging unity and fellowship among congregations that might otherwise be isolated or divided.

Camp Amerikraine has faced significant challenges, from finding safe locations to host the camp to dealing with the proximity of missile strikes. Despite these obstacles, the camp has continued to provide a safe haven for spiritual growth, adapting to the needs of its participants and ensuring that the camp’s mission is fulfilled.

What sets Camp Amerikraine apart is its ability to unite Ukrainian Christians across the country. It is the largest gathering of Christians in Ukraine during the war, providing a platform for congregations to collaborate, share resources, and create plans for evangelism and ministry. The camp also plays a crucial role in raising new youth leaders who will one day establish their own congregations.

Faith is the cornerstone of Camp Amerikraine. Participants come to the camp burdened by their own thoughts and emotions, often fatigued by the constant stress of war. The camp provides a spiritual perspective that helps them navigate their pain, losses, and life changes, offering new sources of hope and strength.

Camp Amerikraine is funded by Christians from around the world who are dedicated to supporting the spiritual needs of the Ukrainian church, the largest Church of Christ in Europe. Supporters can donate through RescueUkraine.com, where they can see the tangible impact of their contributions.

One of the key principles of Camp Amerikraine is its commitment to staying true to spiritual truths, especially in a time when emotions and external pressures can easily lead people astray. The camp emphasizes the importance of a cappella singing and teaching biblical truths that resonate deeply in times of crisis. This focus on spiritual depth over emotional distractions ensures that participants are grounded in their faith and equipped to face the challenges ahead.