January 11th, 2013
On January 8th, 2013, Diocesan Council decided to recommend that the Camp Artaban Society immediately cease operating the camp on Gambier Island, pending completion of the work of a new Camping Ministry Task Force of the Diocese. If the Society agrees, the Diocese will fund shutdown costs (at least $130,500).
After extensive study and careful consideration Council believes continued financial contributions to Camp Artaban (CA) are not in the best interest of the Diocese’s child, youth and family Christian Camping ministry. The Diocese will seek to work with the CA board to ensure the orderly closure of CA facilities.
CA has accumulated debts of $758,000 and requires another three million dollars to bring the camp up to modern health, safety and programmatic standards. This on-going drain on financial resources is not sustainable. The orderly closure will allow for the possibility of bank and Diocesan loans to be fully repaid.
The Diocese supports the idea of a Christian Camping Ministry, but does not wish to limit this to a particular site. The new Task Force on Christian Camping will explore other models such as residential, day programs and other opportunities for children, youth and families.
The final decision on the future of the camp rests with the Camp Artaban Board and Society. If Diocesan recommendations are followed camping operations will be suspended for this year.
For further information, please contact the Diocesan Communications Officer, Randy Murray, at 604.785.1497