In 1869, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association was created to serve the Kingdom of God in a special way. Over the past 137 years, we have been blessed with many resources to use for that Kingdom. One of the more unique resources is a beautiful beach presenting opportunities that other Christian resorts cannot match.

Last summer, as part of the Missions 101 Youth Program, a sunrise service was held on the North End Beach . Those attending reflected on many Gospel stories that took place at the water’s edge—from the calling of the first disciples to the post-resurrection breakfast where Christ challenged Peter to confirm his love for the Lord. Most who got up before 5:30 a.m. on that Saturday morning had never before seen the beauty of the sun rising over the ocean. It was a special moment with our Savior, a special moment that instantly became etched in their memories of Ocean Grove. More sunrise services will be on the schedule in 2007!

Another benefit of our beachfront setting can be learned from the Apostle Paul’s teaching in many seaside communities. Despite the obvious differences between the world that Paul knew and 21st century Ocean Grove, the nature of shore communities is to attract visitors who stay for a while and then return home. Often, they pass on the things learned or seen on the trip. This allowed the impact of Paul’s teaching to be multiplied as he reached travelers who then spread the gospel far and wide.

Paul’s example demonstrates that what we do in Ocean Grove has the potential to be multiplied in value and to have a dynamic impact far beyond the place we know as God’s Square Mile. Ocean Grove has a clear and timeless message for the world. This past summer, Rev. Dan Betzer summarized that message very well by reminding us that we are in the Redemption Business.

The specifics of being in the Redemption Business are different today than they were in 1869. During the first Camp Meetings there were no cars or parking problems, no Asbury Park or Bradley Beach, no Internet or mega-churches. But, while the world has changed, we continue in unity with our founders by worshiping the same God; serving the same Lord; and preaching the same Gospel of Redemption.

For as long as we stay focused on God’s Redemption Business, the future of Ocean Grove will remain as bright as its past.

I’d like to hear your thoughts about what it means for Ocean Grove to be in the Redemption Business in the twenty-first century. Send an e-mail toScott Hoffman at scotth@oceangrove.org or mail a note to the Camp Meeting Office

(54 Pitman Ave , Ocean Grove , NJ 07756 ).  I’m looking forward to hearing from you.