Camp Onomia Awarded Emmaus Fund Grant to Strengthen Year-Round Ministry

Camp Onomia is honored to announce that it was one of two ministries selected this round to receive an Emmaus Fund Grant from the Northeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA. The grant will support expanded faith formation and congregational partnerships, strengthening Camp Onomia's ministry both during the summer and throughout the year.

The Emmaus Fund takes its inspiration from the story of the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), where the risen Christ walks alongside disciples, is revealed through Scripture and the breaking of bread, and transforms their journey through faithful accompaniment. This vision of walking together in faith is at the heart of Camp Onomia's ministry.

Grant funding will be invested in two key initiatives:

Growing Social Skills and Character Development at Summer Camp

Camp Onomia will continue expanding its intentional focus on helping young people grow not only in faith, but also in character. Through new curriculum, activities, and staff training, campers will have even more opportunities to practice kindness, empathy, resilience, communication, leadership, and healthy relationships in a Christ-centered community.

Strengthening "Onomia on the Road"

The grant will also expand Camp Onomia's year-round ministry of visiting congregations throughout Minnesota.

Beyond traditional Camp Sunday worship visits, Onomia staff will be able to partner more intentionally with congregations through youth group events, Sunday school programs, adult Bible studies, retreats, confirmation support, leadership development, and intergenerational ministry opportunities.

In addition, Camp Onomia will continue to develop new faith formation resources, provide consultation for congregational ministries, and help bridge the transformative experiences of summer camp back into the everyday life of local churches.

"Outdoor ministry doesn't end when campers go home," said Executive Director Deacon Stephanie Engel. "Our hope is to continue walking alongside congregations throughout the year, equipping leaders, encouraging faith formation, and helping churches create spaces where people of every age can grow in faith and community. This grant allows us to deepen those relationships in exciting new ways."

A new section of Camp Onomia's website will be launching soon with additional information about Onomia on the Road, including opportunities for congregations to request visits from Onomia staff, explore available programming, and access ministry resources.

Camp Onomia is deeply grateful to the Northeastern Minnesota Synod and the Emmaus Fund committee for their investment in this shared ministry. Together, we look forward to walking alongside congregations as Christ continues to be revealed through Word, community, and faithful accompaniment.

For more information, visit https://www.camponomia.org/onomia-on-the-road