November 9-13, 2025
Join hundreds of outdoor ministry colleagues for the Outdoor Ministries Connection Great Gathering.
CONTACT THE GATHERING TEAM
Lake Junaluska, NC
We’ll gather at the beautiful Lake Junaluska retreat center in the Western North Carolina mountains.
EXPLORE JUNALUSKA
Thank you for a truly great gathering!
On behalf of the gathering planning team, Lake Junaluska, and the Outdoor Ministries Connections Council, thank you for an incredible OMC Great Gathering. Stay tuned for more highlights and reflections from the event, and details about future gatherings.
Over the last several years, we’ve arguably seen some of the biggest challenges for camp, retreat, and outdoor ministries. Ranging from the pandemic to changing cultural trends, from economic challenges to denominational evolution, it is clear we are tasked to REIMAGINE. From how we gather and connect to who we serve and how to reach them, from best practices to undreamt innovation, listening and acting accordingly as God continues to make all things new is more important than ever.
With absolute certainty, what we offer in our ministry settings addresses the needs of the communities we serve. As camp, retreat and outdoor ministry professionals, we are at our strongest when we intentionally make time and space to celebrate the joys, share in losses, and challenge each other to grow, all while supporting each other as we MAKE A WAY IN THE WILDERNESS.
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43: 18-19
#OMCGG
Why We Gather
The Great Gathering is an ecumenical gathering where leaders from diverse faith-based camps share best practices, enhance their programs, and improve the quality and impact of their ministries. This event will bring together outdoor ministry partners (directors, program staff, board members, site and facility staff, etc.) of mainline denominations to build relationships, discover each other’s gifts, and equip vital ministries so that we can honor and reimagine what has been done before as we aim into the unknown.
We’re grateful to the dozens of workshop leaders who brought their wisdom to Great Gathering attendees across five workshop time slots. Use the button below to view the 2025 workshop options that were available to participants. Consider contacting these workshop leaders for your upcoming conferences and gatherings!
Gatherings like this are truly not possible without the partnership of exhibitors and sponsors who share funds, wisdom, time, and energy with participants. Use the button to view the 2025 exhibitors and sponsors that supported and participated in the gathering, and contact them to learn more about how they serve camps like yours.
OMC Inclusivity Statement
The Outdoor Ministries Connection (OMC) recognizes and values the diverse identities, backgrounds, and perspectives of the faith leaders, staff, and organizations we serve. We are committed to creating inclusive and welcoming environments where all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or denomination, can contribute and thrive. OMC strives to foster collaboration and ecumenical unity, ensuring our initiatives, events, and training opportunities are accessible and equitable for all.
We believe diversity enriches our shared mission and strengthens the impact of outdoor ministries across Christian denominations. OMC is dedicated to challenging barriers to inclusivity and promoting a community of mutual respect, where every individual is heard and valued. By upholding these principles, we work to create a future where everyone is empowered to fully engage in and benefit from the transformative power of outdoor ministry.
We are thankful for our
2025 Conference Sponsors
PARTNERS
Outdoor Ministries Connection Associations
