Jeffrey’s Pecometh Story
Have you ever fallen out of a canoe but in love with Camp Pecometh? Jeffrey Purdy sure has! For eight summers, Jeffrey has made Camp Pecometh his home away from home, creating memories, building friendships, and growing in his faith. His journey began in 2016 when he attended the Summer Respite program for the first time.
“My stepmom suggested I come here,” Jeffrey recalls. “Every week that I come here, I find it to be a real good time.” And a good time it has been—filled with adventure, reflection, and plenty of laughter.
Jeffrey loves everything about Camp Pecometh, but a few things stand out. From engaging activities to the deep connections he makes with friends, every moment at camp feels special. Yet one experience shines above the rest: the Galilean service.
For Summer Respite campers, the closing Galilean service is a powerful moment of reflection and faith. Unlike traditional Galilean services held by the river, Respite campers gather in Fellowship Hall, where they arrange candles in the shape of a cross. Together, they share where they saw God throughout the week, accompanied by heartfelt music from Pecometh’s music leaders and summer staff.
“I like it when we have the Galilean,” Jeffrey shares. “I like the end of the day where we close out the week.” For Jeffrey, it’s a time to reflect on the friendships he’s made and the ways he’s experienced God’s presence.
Jeffrey’s first summer at Camp Pecometh holds a special place in his heart. He still remembers his first counselors, Max and Nathan—who happens to be the current program director. It was a summer full of fun and formative memories, from singing songs at the Galilean service to enjoying the much-anticipated trips to the canteen.
“That’s a tough one, Nate,” Jeffrey says when asked about his favorite moment. After some thought, he grins and shares, “My favorite camp memory is when I tried to canoe. I basically fell out.”
Falling out of a canoe might not seem like a highlight to some, but for Jeffrey, it marked the start of a journey filled with adventure and resilience. Who could have guessed that a tumble into the water eight years ago would lead to a lifetime love of camp?
What keeps Jeffrey returning to Camp Pecometh summer after summer? For him, it’s simple: the fun and the friendships.
“I keep coming back because it’s a fun time,” he says. Each year, Jeffrey reunites with familiar faces, including his camp friends Barry, Travis, Wayne, and others who make the Summer Respite program such a meaningful experience. Together, they share laughter, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that only camp can provide.
When asked what he would tell someone considering Camp Pecometh, Jeffrey’s answer is as warm as his personality: “You’re in for a week of friendship and a real good time.”
Jeffrey’s journey at Camp Pecometh is a testament to the transformative power of camp. It’s a place where falling out of a canoe becomes a cherished memory, where worship services bring tears and joy, and where every camper feels like they belong.
As Jeffrey looks forward to more summers at Camp Pecometh, we couldn’t be prouder to be the place where he’s experienced so many life-changing moments. His story reminds us why camp matters—and why we’re so grateful to be a part of it.
Ready for your own week of friendship and a real good time? We can’t wait to welcome you to Camp Pecometh!