Summer Missions Recap 2025 | BridgeBuilders

Last month, we wrapped up another fantastic summer of BridgeBuilders—a six-week camp for children ages 5 to 12 that takes place in Hampton County. Hosted by Varnville First Baptist Church and facilitated by Grace Church students, volunteers, and staff, this camp aims to bridge gaps, foster relationships, and point young people in the community to Christ in order to become the next generation of leaders.

About 270 of our high school students and leaders served this summer by helping to lead groups of campers each day. From setting up and cleaning, to heading up activities and games, students took the lead by example. As they held discussion time on topics such as God Loves Us or God Hears Us, it proved to be a balm to all sides. Walking campers through biblical curriculum created opportunities for the Holy Spirit to move through hearts and minds—growing both the campers and our high school students.

One leader shared this about their experience:

I had the privilege of serving with the oldest students (Go, Dragons!). It was humbling to see how quickly trust formed—even in just a week, they were willing to share some really deep parts of their life experiences. I know that doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the fruit of years of trust built between our churches. BridgeBuilders is where being seen and known meets having a ton of fun!

A camp staff member also reflected:

It was really awesome to see how God moved in the campers’ lives this summer. I got to work closely with our older boys, and I could genuinely see a difference between the start and end of camp with how they responded to family group time, answering questions, and engaging in chapel. A lot of the boys who are aging out of camp have expressed a desire to return as Builder Volunteers so they can work with the camp in future years. It’s really cool to see how God has used many people to make this a fun place for the kids. This environment is an awesome starting point for God to move in greater ways over the years for each of these campers.

We are so grateful for the work that Varnville First Baptist Church is doing in Hampton County and Allendale County and all of the campers who attended this year. Please join us in praying that the truth and love of Christ will continue to move through the campers, our students, and staff—that their shared experiences this summer will produce fruit in their lives and draw them closer in relationship with Jesus. If you would like to find out more about BridgeBuilders, click below.