Provided by Deacon Dallas Shealy, SCLRC Executive Director

“In the idyllic rolling hills of the Midlands of South Carolina, Camp Kinard stands as a sanctuary, offering solace and spiritual rejuvenation to all who tread upon the over 300 acres that make up its sacred grounds.  Unfortunately,  like many sanctuaries, it faced trials during the tumultuous times of the Covid-19 pandemic. Heartbreakingly, the tranquility of Camp Kinard was disrupted as trespassers took advantage of the chaos, pilfering kayaks, a gator, and other equipment. It became evident that these intruders were accessing the property through the gas line, which served as the camp’s back boundary.

In response to these challenges, Camp Kinard’s board made the difficult decision to sell a portion of the property, approximately 10 acres, with the hope of creating a buffer zone to safeguard against future trespassing incidents. We were fortunate to be able to sell the property and realize a profit of $105,000, a significant sum that held the promise of not only addressing immediate concerns but also advancing the camp’s mission of providing holy spaces for God to change lives.

Generosity & Commitment

With a heart of generosity and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of faith leaders, Camp Kinard earmarked a tithe of the proceeds to support Lutheran youth. This act of giving ensures that the transformative experiences offered by the camp will continue to shape the lives of young people for years to come.

Additionally, a portion of the funds will be allocated to refurbish the old pool area, transforming it into a vibrant hub of activity and worship. The addition of amenities such as volleyball, tetherball, and gaga pits, alongside a dedicated gathering and worship space, will not only enhance the camp experience for visitors but also foster deeper connections and spiritual growth.

Recognizing the importance of long-term sustainability, Camp Kinard has set aside funds for future maintenance needs, ensuring that the camp remains a haven of peace and renewal for generations. Furthermore, a portion of the proceeds will support the campaign for the construction of a new chapel, symbolizing the camp’s unwavering commitment to providing sacred spaces for encounter and reflection.

What’s next

As the chapter closes on the sale of the property, a new narrative begins to unfold. The family that purchased the land sees beyond mere ownership; they envision a homeplace where children can grow, chickens can roam, and goats can frolic. Their presence on the grounds of Camp Kinard embodies the camp’s mission of providing holy spaces for God to change lives, ensuring that the spirit of sanctuary and renewal continues to flourish amidst the rolling hills of South Carolina.

In the face of adversity, Camp Kinard has not only persevered but also thrived, turning challenges into opportunities and setbacks into blessings. As it looks to the future with hope and anticipation, Camp Kinard remains steadfast in its commitment to serving as a beacon of light and love in a world in need of healing and grace.