Aldersgate Camp rebuilding after lodge destroyed in fire

RAVENA, Ky. (FOX 56) — Church leaders describe the lodge at Aldersgate Camp as the heartbeat of their ministry.

On August 10, a fire destroyed the building, leaving behind devastating loss. Still, camp leaders said their mission remains strong.

“It’s been there over 60 years, and there are many memories of the campers and adults and many people who have visited this camp,” said Bishop David Graves.

For Julie Hager Love, the loss was especially personal. She calls herself a lifelong “Aldersgater” and said she was stunned when she learned what had happened.

“I was hoping maybe it wouldn’t be too bad until I saw the picture and saw that it was total devastation.”

Like Love, many members of the community describe Aldersgate as their home.

“One of the signs when you drive in says ‘Welcome home,’ and for me, that’s always been literal,” said Leanndra Padgett Thompson. “But it is also how many people feel. They can be themselves, and they can be at home when they arrive in these hollers.”

Despite the destruction, Aldersgate remains open.

Just days after the fire, the camp hosted a retreat.

“We did have a retreat of about 138 people that came; they had a great time,” said camp director Zane Johns-Morrison. “We’re willing to work with whoever; whenever people want to come, we can make sure that whatever your needs are, we can meet those needs.”

Nearly $1 million has already been raised toward building a new lodge, with insurance proceeds from the fire adding to the total. Leaders say immediate needs include a functioning kitchen and summer staff housing.

“We’re roughly halfway, maybe halfway to our goal of $3 million that we want to raise to build the new lodge,” said board chair Eric Seiberling. “And so every gift that we receive is going to directly benefit the ministry that we do here.”

For resources or partnerships, you can email Johns-Morrison at zjohnsmorrison@kyumc.org.

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