Louisiana Ministry & Retreat Center 2026 Camp Meeting Report

The Church of God Ministry and Retreat Center in Palmetto gathered for its 2026 Camp Meeting on July 9-12. The theme of the meeting was “The Voice of God” with biblical direction from John 10:4-5. We were blessed to be led by Rev. Handel Smith and his wife, Rev. Vickey Smith. Their preaching and teaching were spiritually dynamic and very practical to be applied to lived experience. The 210 registrants who gathered on the campgrounds and those who viewed online were challenged to become more intentional to hear the voice of God through the rhythms of their lives and to cut the other noises out of their lives.

The conferences that were offered gave opportunities for shared conversation and clearer understandings on a variety of topics designed to strengthen churches and also for individual discipleship. Conferences offered included “Next Generation Leadership Focus”, “Wow, That’s in the Bible?”, “Country Pew/City Pew Conversation”, and a “Stewardship Session”. Rev. Vickey Smith preached Saturday morning and then lead the women in a conference session that afternoon. The men gathered Saturday afternoon for a fish-fry and conversation—even in the rain. 

The MRC Youth Camp was once again held in conjunction with the Camp Meeting. In addition to conferences, some of the activities included a Glow for Jesus Party, a Hayride, Bonfire and a Carnival afternoon. One obvious highlight was how the youth participated and led portions of Friday night’s Worship Service, as they prayed, read Scripture, sang and danced for Jesus.

As a means to further strengthen connectivity, our 5th Wednesday Night Zoom Conference, that was initiated after last year’s camp meeting, will continue. The 5th Wednesday Night Zoom Conference held on July 29 had over 50 people tuned in. The next 5th Wednesday Night Zoom Conference will be held on September 30.

Sincerely,

Bro. Dale M Fontenot

MRC Chairman

"Transforming Live, Communities, Culture"