RMCNews with Jonathan Carlson – Ward, Colorado … The summer of 2025 was one to remember at Glacier View Ranch (GVR) in Ward, Colorado, where lives were changed, faith was deepened, and the spirit of service spread throughout the season. Under the passionate leadership of Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) Youth director Brandon Westgate, assistant directors Jade Teal and Brent Learned, and a dedicated team of summer staff, the camp delivered a lively, Christ-centered program that served youth, families, and a variety of community groups.
Over the course of the summer, GVR welcomed hundreds of campers. With high-energy programming, spiritual mentorship, and a focus on creating a safe space for growth and discovery, the intentional ministry approach by the RMC Youth Department offering a summer camp experience that’s more than just fun and games. “Throughout the summer, we had the privilege of serving campers ages 8–18, and we’re thrilled to report that over 76 decisions for Christ were made. Several of our Summer Camp staff were also baptized and recommitted their lives to God,” commented Jonathan Carlson, RMC Camp Ministries director.
The season closed with Royal Family Kids Camp*, a special session for children in the foster care system. This nationally recognized program, which partners with local churches to provide trauma-informed care and spiritual encouragement, was a moving highlight for many staff and volunteers. Children who have experienced difficult starts in life were poured into with care, joy, and the love of Christ.
Behind the scenes, Westgate brought in past experience and stepped in as lead camp cook receiving enthusiastic praise for his meals, with many calling it “the best camp food they’ve ever had.” GVR’s head-cook-in-training, Stefan Teal, shadowed him throughout the season, honing his culinary skills and preparing to carry on a legacy of hospitality and care.
Camp staff received an outpouring of praise from guests. One camper shared, “In 30 years of attending camps, this was the best camp I’ve ever been to.” Such sentiments speak volumes to the passion, preparation, and prayer that goes into every session.
Glacier View Ranch’s full-time team also played a pivotal role. Year-round GVR staff members—office assistant Kelli Carlson, head of grounds and maintenance Christina Fernald, head of housekeeping Julie Lim, food service manager Stefan Teal, and faithful volunteers David Barger and Fabio and Agnalva Brito—were the behind-the-scene heroes, ensuring every detail was ready for a smooth and meaningful camp experience. Their dedication is a shining example of servant leadership.
Beyond the RMC summer camp season, the GVR continued its ministry outreach to a wide variety of groups. This year, the camp hosted diverse guests including Denver Jewish Day School*, a Catholic Silent Retreat*, and a Vietnamese children’s program* (SEED)—which has already rebooked for 2026. Each group brought unique backgrounds and needs, and the staff met each one with grace, openness, and a commitment to Christ-centered hospitality. Weddings, reunions, Trail Life boys*, American Heritage Girls*, and other community events also added to the full calendar.
“Every week reminded us how powerful it is when people gather in a space that is prayerfully prepared and purposefully designed for connection and spiritual growth. We are deeply grateful for your support, encouragement, and prayers. Because of your support, we’re able to continue saying ‘yes’ to serving people from all walks of life with excellence and the love of Christ,” shared Carlson.
Looking to the fall, the camp will continue its mission by hosting key RMC events. These include the recently ran Pathfinder Camporee, Outdoor School, Hispanic Camp Meeting, Campion Academy’s Senior Survival, Mile High Academy Retreat, GVR Alumni Weekend, and Hispanic Women’s retreat. Each event offers a fresh opportunity for spiritual growth, community bonding, and leadership development.
There were also significant improvements to the campus, thanks in large part to a June visit from the Maranatha Volunteers International. Their team made a tremendous impact removing more than 25 downed trees, constructing new decks, painting key buildings, installing reverse osmosis systems, and donating commercial vacuums and possibly generators for future power reliability. Their presence and service left a lasting impression, and their generosity was deeply appreciated.
Infrastructure development didn’t stop there. The new storage building is nearing completion, and the ropes course project has officially been permitted. This future amenity will allow for dynamic team-building opportunities for both ministry and professional groups.
Looking ahead, major renovations are on the horizon like a refreshed main lodge and guest rooms and full cabin enhancements—including vaulted ceilings, air conditioning, and covered porches. Another major project in planning is the restoration of Lake Minnie, which has seen declining water levels in recent years.
As the summer of 2025 closes and a new season of ministry begins, the team at Glacier View Ranch extends a heartfelt thank you to all who have prayed, supported, volunteered, and given: “Thank you for your continued prayers, support, and encouragement. God is doing great things here, and we are so grateful to walk this journey with faithful friends like you.”
* Please note that these organizations are not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists or the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
—Curated by ChatGPT from content provided by Jonathan Carlson, RMC Camp Ministries director, and edited by RMCNews. Photo courtesy of RMC Youth Department.
