Families from across the United States gathered in Big Sandy from October 10–17 for the 2020 ALERT Family Camp. Over 60 new families participated in this year’s events and activities, bringing the total number of guests to 1,010.

This year’s theme, Deep in the Heart, encouraged individuals to let Christ do a deep work in their lives. Lew Sterrett, Bob Allison, and Gabriel Cleator shared challenging messages throughout the week. Lew Sterrett, speaking at his twenty-first Family Camp, illustrated the freedom and responsibility we have as we mature in Christ. Bob Allison reminded listeners of God’s deep love for each person. U. S. Congressman Louie Gohmert, who represents our congressional district, challenged attendees to remember our nation’s founding principles and return to God. Gabriel Cleator encouraged families to go deep in the heart of God through reading and meditating on His Word.

Throughout the week, families participated in a variety of activities.  Trail rides returned this year, along with archery, rappelling and rock climbing, plane rides, sewing crafts, metalworking, and Scripture assembly. This year’s tournaments included volleyball, horseshoes, fishing, and Ultimate Frisbee. Families also participated in a 5K trail run, trade day, a stick horse rodeo, and county fair. The indoor sports complex, featuring volleyball, basketball, pickleball, carpet ball, 9-square, and a Nerf park, was a favorite among attendees of all ages. Families also enjoyed an expanded trail system and fellowship with like-minded people from around the country.

This year’s Family Camp finale took place at the lakefront. Some highlights from the afternoon were canoe races, tug-of-war, a sandcastle competition, and a hamburger cookout on the grounds. A slip-n-slide was available for adventurous young people, and bear ball was a hit. A fantastic fireworks show finished the week with a bang. Families lingered around a lakefront bonfire, singing and fellowshipping under the stars.

One family said, “We were able to spend time as a family and with friends. It was especially nice to have time away from our busy lives to just have fun with our kids. Family Camp offers us a place to relax, enjoy fun activities, see old friends, make new friends, and enjoy Christian fellowship.” Another shared, “The fellowship with old and new friends is what blessed our family the most this year. Some of the best fellowship happened while watching the volleyball tournament and hanging out at the lake Friday afternoon.”

Family Camp 2021 is scheduled for October 9–16, and registration opens at 10:00 A.M. on November 3! Save 15% on all purchases made before December 31, including meals and lodging. See alertfamilycamp.com for details. Y’all come!