DEAF Camp Meeting 2026
Southern New England Conference DEAF (Deaf Everywhere Are Family) Camp Meeting, held at Camp Berkshire in Wingdale, New York, from August 26-30, welcomed campers of all ages from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Missouri, and from as far away as Haiti.
“We used many languages to communicate, including American Sign Language, English Spanish, Haitian Creole, and Haitian sign language,” said Jessica McGowan Smith, SNEC DEAF Ministry coordinator. “We were happy to see new faces and to connect with old friends.”
Pastor Paul Kelly presented the main messages with the theme “Go Forward!” covering topics such as “Facing the Impossible” and “Going Forward by Faith.” He invited campers to go forward with Jesus. In response, many raised their hands, making a decision to follow Jesus. Campers signed songs in praise to God, including “I’m Going Forward” and “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.”
During the weekday mornings, campers enjoyed a “Hand Massage and Aromatherapy” workshop given by licensed massage therapist, Beverly Williams, and a “Small Changes, Healthier You” workshop by Song Hoa Choi from Rochester, New York.
During the afternoon free time, campers swam in the pool, went boating (until it started raining), and played basketball and volleyball in the gym. Children enjoyed making crafts and everyone learned how to make aromatherapy sachets designed to induce relaxation and enhance sleep.
On Thursday evening, Rood Metellus led the men, and Monifa Wilds led the women during the first-ever DEAF Men’s and Women’s Ministry meetings. The meetings were held separately, with the men gathering in the gym and the women in the lodge. Campers enjoyed the experience and expressed hope that these meetings would become a regular feature of future DEAF camps.
“2026 DEAF Camp Meeting was full of wonderful activities and lots of God’s blessings,” said McGowan Smith. “If you or someone you know missed it, please join us next year for DEAF Camp 2027.”
DEAF Camp Meeting, the last of the language group camp meetings, closed the SNEC camp meeting season for 2026.
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