When God Whispers “Go”
By Carie Gordy
In July 2022, I got an email from our Outreach Director, Cara Taylor. She’d been in touch with Jacksonville Presbyterian Church (one of our sister churches in Oregon) about a one-day visitor event at their family camp: Camp Levi, a retreat for families affected by disability. Just 40 minutes south of Cannon Beach, guests were invited to walk the grounds, share a meal, meet the campers, and catch the much-anticipated talent show.
That was all the info I had, and I couldn’t shake it. God was stirring something. Later that day, I casually mentioned it to my (then) 11-year-old son Marshall (a theologian, explorer, and walking hug) and without hesitation he shouted, “Let’s go!” We booked a hotel in Seaside for one night and started praying.
When we arrived, the leadership team welcomed us and gave us a tour. And let me tell you, this was no ordinary summer camp. We’re talking zip lines, horseback riding, mini golf, kayaking, crafts, archery, beach access, and something called the EXTREME SWING (yes, it deserves all caps). Oh, and there’s a camp store with an espresso bar. Because God provides.
As we walked, one of the leaders shared how families affected by disability are often overlooked, even in church. For most, this is their one vacation a year. They aren’t asking for luxury…they’re asking for rest, dignity, and a week where they don’t have to explain their family.
That truth settled heavy on my heart…and then a giant blob of foam flew past my head!!
“MOM! LOOK!” Marshall shouted, vanishing into what can only be described as a joy-filled, soap-scented cloud. One kid yelled, “Now I don’t have to shower for a week!” I laughed and silently prayed that he’d reconsider.
That night, we shared supper with a camp family and their STMs (Short-Term Missionaries). I braced myself for “camp food,” but to my surprise, the meal was actually good. Like really good. In two years of camp, I’ve eaten roughly 44 meals there, and only one was less than par. That’s basically a culinary miracle!
Then came the talent show. If you want to see the Gospel in full color, friend, this is it. Every act is met with thunderous, unfiltered love. These kids cheer for each other like Jesus would. Watching Marshall take it all in, I realized I’d just witnessed one of the clearest glimpses of the Kingdom of God.
On the drive to Seaside, we sat in thoughtful silence. Finally, Marshall said, “We’re coming back, right?”
We did.
The last two summers, Marshall and I (and my older son, Isaac) have spent the full week serving at Camp Levi. We’re heading back again this year, and we’d love for you to come too.
This is where you come in. Every camper is paired with an STM. “STM” is the name, “buddy” is the game! Come be encouraging. Be flexible. Eat s’mores. Bust a move. Pick flowers. Laugh until you cry. Cry until you laugh. Just show up.
And if high-energy kid time isn’t your thing? No worries. There are essential behind-the-scenes roles too, like hospitality, meal prep, you name it. The leadership team is full of wisdom and grace. They’ll find the right fit, and they’ll make sure you get a break when you need it. This isn’t about burnout. It’s about showing up with Jesus’ kind of love.
Here’s the hard truth: if there aren’t enough volunteers, families might have to be turned away. Not because they aren’t wanted, but because Camp Levi refuses to let anyone be overlooked.
If you’re already all-in, fist-pumping your way through this paragraph, you can register by reaching out to Phoebe Olstad. If you want more info, you can find it all on the Camp Levi website. Curious, but cautious? I see you, because I was you. So, consider this your gentle nudge: Book a hotel in Seaside (trust me on this). Then come visit on August 13. Walk the grounds. Share a meal. Stay for a talent show that will absolutely wreck you in the most beautiful way. If you’re open to being a guest for the day, be sure to email Brent Olstad before July 31 to RSVP and tell him Marshall, Isaac and I sent you!
This is a beautiful, meaningful way to serve…whether you’re flying solo or bringing the whole fam. If you want to hear more from Marshall, Isaac or me, we are so happy to share! You can definitely shoot an email our way!
I’d love to meet you there and share this little slice of holy ground.
Carie