From left to right: Charles Kirkpatrick, Stanley Watkins, Forest Bush Sr., S.E. FosketIn the mid 1950’s, a group of people launched an incredible vision to build Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center. The leaders of the Washington Conference of the Free Methodist denomination came together to sell two small camps that were going to be overtaken by the construction of I-5.

The vision they pursued was multiple times the scope of what was being given up. Two small properties for a big spacious property overlooking Port Susan Bay. They went from a vision of serving hundreds to envisioning ministry to tens of thousands every year.

The photo is an iconic picture of four great men who gave leadership to the vision. As a boy and young man, I had the privilege of knowing each of these great men. There were many others that were working right alongside them.

Earlier this year, the last of these four men, Forest Bush, went home to be with Jesus. At a recent Warm Beach Camp Board of Directors meeting, we took time to remember what they, in faith and obedience to God, had begun. 

As a Board, we were overwhelmed with two clear thoughts:

1. WHAT A VISION – The vision of Warm Beach Camp begun all those years ago has grown to over 92,000 people in 2015.
2. WHAT A SACRED TRUST – We have a sacred trust to continue this vision in the same faith and obedience to God in changing times. 

Dear Father,

Thank You for the founders of Warm Beach Camp. Thank You for the vision You gave to them. Thank You for their faith and obedience. Thank You for all the lives being changed every year through Your gospel and creation. 

Guide us in continuing this sacred trust. Guide us in keeping the path clear to the cross of Jesus Christ.  Guide us to develop the ministry for current and future generations. 

Thank You.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen 

Ed McDowell, Executive Director
Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center