Revitalizing Camp Ministry at Allegheny
by Warren L. Maye
Captain Larry Fulmer serves as divisional youth secretary for The Salvation Army in the Western Pennsylvania Division. His inspiring camping ministry at Camp Allegheny features a program known as Jesus Theatre. Campers find it fun and exciting to come together and participate in such a meaningful spiritual experience. For adults like Fulmer, it brings back fond memories of childhood embarking on camping adventures under the watchful eyes of trusted adults and dedicated staff members. During those times, he remembers feeling safe, cared for, and truly valued as part of a community.
Fulmer, who is relatively new in his role as divisional youth secretary, has been deeply moved by the enthusiastic responses from the children attending camp — particularly the time when an 11-year-old boy expressed his desire to be saved from his sins and give his heart to Jesus. Fulmer remembers the moment when the boy said, “I want Jesus to come into my life.”
That heartfelt response was not isolated. Fulmer observed many children at the camp who were eager to seek Christ during their time there. Jesus Theatre plays a big role in this spiritual journey. Last year’s theme was “Umbrellas,” where various camp staff performed on stage using umbrellas as props to illustrate a powerful metaphor: Just like an umbrella protects us from rain, God watches over us and provides protection throughout our lives.
Beyond campgrounds
Major Antonio Rosamilia, territorial youth secretary for the Eastern Territory, said that sharing Fulmer’s insights regarding such transformative experiences at Camp Allegheny may inspire others engaged in similar ministries across regions. Fulmer noted that this camping event has positively influenced over 700 young people along with their youth counselors and adult leaders.
Recently Fulmer went to get a haircut, and the barber asked him about his work. When he mentioned being a director at Camp Allegheny, it sparked a connection with the barber, who shared nostalgic memories about being a camper there himself. The man reflected fondly on how the camp helped shape his life and instilled lasting values — a testament to how impactful such programs can be.
But Fulmer and his dedicated staff face significant challenges ahead as they strive to rebuild attendance figures following COVID-19’s disruption of their programs. In previous years, before pandemic-related restrictions took effect, attendance was double than what they’re seeing today, or even higher.
The ministry of presence
The question remains: What innovative strategies can they implement moving forward to boost the numbers? This challenge extends beyond just Fulmer and Camp Allegheny or The Salvation Army; it resonates with churches nationwide grappling with similar issues.
Many congregations have struggled post-COVID with regaining pre-pandemic attendance levels — both within sanctuaries and across various activities. During lockdowns, communities shifted toward engaging on social media and in virtual meetings. People seek connection through digital means instead of face-to-face interactions.
Now there is renewed effort to reestablish habits centered around gathering together in common spaces. No virtual interaction can truly replace personal connections. The invaluable ministry of presence cannot be overstated.
This year’s theme for Camp Allegheny is “Changemakers.” Fulmer believes it will serve dual purposes: encouraging campers to become changemakers within their own lives and inspiring them to foster transformation among those around them — creating ripples of positive change inside themselves and extending outward into their communities.
