November 9-13, 2025

Save the date and plan to join hundreds of outdoor ministry colleagues for the 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

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 of outdoor ministry where leaders from diverse faith-based camps can share best practices, enhance their programs, and improve the quality and impact of their respective outdoor 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.

You’re invited to submit a workshop proposal for the 2025 Great Gathering! Workshops will be offered November 10, 11 and 12th. Please be sure to submit your completed form by March 15, 2025. Share this opportunity with other leaders and organizations you know.

How would you like to partcipate?

PARTNERS

Outdoor Ministries Connection Associations