Thoughts from the Pastor

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
— John 1:5

Dear Church Family,

As we gather our hearts around the manger once again this Christmas, I’m reminded of the way Christ’s light still breaks into our world—steady, sure, and full of grace. And I want to tell you how grateful I am for the ways Camp Ground United Methodist Church has shared that light throughout this past year.

Thank you for stepping up with generosity and compassion as we supported recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene. You showed what it means to love your neighbor, not just in words but in real, practical help. Thank you for your steady support of our community partners—Girl Scouts, the CROP Walk, and Diaper Ministry and so many others.  To name all the things you supported this year would take pages and pages, so please know that even if they aren't listed here, your efforts in all the ministries of Camp Ground UMC have been noticed and appreciated. Through each partnership, you helped strengthen our community and offered kindness that carries Christ’s love into places we may never fully see.

Thank you for the ministries that help us grow: our Bible studies that dig deeper into God’s Word, and a wonderful Vacation Bible School that filled our halls with laughter, learning, and the joy of children discovering Jesus. And what a blessing it was to honor our military neighbors on Ft. Bragg Sunday and remind them that they have a home here among us. Thank you for the Women's groups that offer worship, fellowship and love all year long.

I also want to offer a heartfelt word of gratitude to the folks who keep this church going day in and day out. Our staff, our worship and music teams, our caring team, and every single person who serves quietly behind the scenes—you are a blessing. Whether you’re running to the store, setting up tables, fixing things that break, or simply stepping in when a need arises, you help make this church a warm and welcoming place.

As we look toward a new year, I want you to hear this clearly: we have every reason to hope. We may be a small congregation, but we are strong in spirit, rooted in faith, and ready for what God has ahead. I believe we will welcome new members, strengthen our ministries, and continue growing into a vibrant community center—a place where our neighbors can find love, belonging, and the good news of Jesus Christ. God is not done with Camp Ground United Methodist Church. In fact, I believe He’s just getting started. When I chose our tagline for the coming year, "Hope that sticks in '26" it was the line that resonated so deeply with where Camp Ground is at, and what is in store for us.



As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, may Christ’s peace rest in your homes, His joy lift your hearts, and His love guide you into the year ahead.

Let us pray:

Gracious and loving God,
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, born among us to bring light, hope, and salvation. Thank You for this church family, for every act of service, every prayer offered, and every step taken in faith this year. As we move into a new season, lead us with Your Spirit. Strengthen our fellowship, grow our ministries, and open our doors and hearts to all whom You send our way. May we shine Your light in this community so that others may come to know Your grace.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.

With Christmas blessings and much love,
Rev. Bobby Tyson