History
In existence for over 50 years, Woodcrest Retreat began with a vision in 1957. After prayer and Bible study, a group of businessmen from several Sunday School classes of the Ephrata Mennonite Church, decided that a place of retreat was needed close to home for a place to “come apart and rest awhile” through solitude, relaxation and appreciation of God’s creation.
Woodcrest Retreat officially became an entity on October 2, 1959. Ownership of the camp is by the Woodcrest Retreat Association. This membership association is made up of a body of believers who embrace the mission of Woodcrest Retreat.
The initial purchase of land was 19 acres of woodland. At various times, God has allowed neighboring properties to become available for purchase which has increased our current total acreage to 110.
The vision for a summer camp program, especially a program for low-income and unchurched children, grew out of the Ephrata Mennonite Church. The first camp was held the summer of 1969 and was staffed by members of the Ephrata Mennonite Church. The church sponsored and staffed a day camp program for 27 years. In 1993, Woodcrest Retreat staff organized their own summer camp program to reach additional children with the gospel. Over the years, camp programs have grown to include resident camps, adventure camps and day camps.
Through the years, pavilions, cabins, shelters, a campground and many recreational choices have been added. Our vision is to continue improving and adding to our programs and facilities for broader ministry.
Woodcrest Retreat is a member of the Christian Camps and Conference Association (CCCA) and the Mennonite Camping Association (MCA).
Mission
The mission of Woodcrest Retreat is to introduce people to Jesus Christ and to encourage Christian growth through wholesome programs, and quality facilities in a wooded setting.
Faith Statement
Our faith values are grounded in the Mennonite Statement of Faith. We believe the following:
God
We believe in one true God, eternally existing as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Creator
We believe that this only true and triune God has created all things visible and invisible.
Jesus
We believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God; the word of God incarnate. He is the Savior of the world reconciling us to God by His death on the cross and rose from the dead for our justification.
Holy Spirit
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God that dwells in us when we accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives.
Bible
We believe the Bible to be the inspired word of God and the true authority in all matters of life and conduct.
Humanity
We believe all persons are sinners before God and need salvation. Salvation comes by God’s grace alone, and may be received freely by repentance from sin, and through Faith in Jesus Christ as Savior.
Destiny
We believe in the eternal punishment of the unsaved in hell and the blessedness of the saved in Heaven.
Core Values
Christ-centered
Based on the authority of Scripture and our love for God, we hold teaching God's Word through the Holy Spirit as the central component of our programming. We
seek to partner with and serve as an extension of local congregations.
Teamwork
We recognize people as our most valuable asset and seek to combine our varied talents and resources to serve others.
Integrity
We are committed to make decisions that honor Christ and His teachings and to
carry out all programs and activities of this organization with openness and honesty.
Respect
We value all people because everyone is created in God's image. We strive to
honor guests, volunteers, and staff and seek to express Christ’s love to all.
Quality
We desire to be good stewards of resources entrusted to us and strive to exceed
guest expectations.
Safety
We are committed to providing a safe physical and emotional environment for
guests, volunteers, and staff.
