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Local News - August 2002 |
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Service kicks off camp meeting By DIANE TURBYFILL, LTN Staff Writer August 5, 2002 - DENVER — Visitors walking the paths through Rock Springs Campground Sunday morning heard the sounds of worship and praise echoing from the arbor. The Campground Choir chimed in singing “How Great Thou Art.” Rev. Gary Fulker of Bethel United Methodist Church paced the straw-covered floor preaching about the sanctity of relationships with God. Hundreds gathered under and around the arbor, fanning themselves and welcoming an occasional breeze. The opening worship service Sunday, kicked-off a week of events. The annual camp meeting, held at Rock Springs campground in eastern Lincoln County, serves as a homecoming for many. “We live far away so it means getting to see old friends,” says Ashley Ruffin of Apex. Ruffin returns to her family tent each year, as she’s done all her life. Her sister, Candy Gillespie of Garner, comes “home” as well. “We grew up going here, and I want my little girls to know what it’s all about.” Gillespie plans to return again next year with the new addition to her family, due in eight weeks. As the morning worship service came to a close, people fanned out around the arbor, greeting old friends. Children immediately broke out the balls and bats and began playing. The aroma of home cooking wafted from the kitchens of the rugged wooden tents. And families took to their porch swings, taking in the view. Kendyll, Chip and Chad Dellinger of Union County headed back to their tent with their grandparents. “We come here every year with our grandparents,” 8-year-old Chad said. The children’s grandparents, Charles and Jo Dellinger of Charlotte enjoy carrying on the family tradition. “I guess this is our 30th year.” Jo Dellinger said. Though she married into the tradition, she welcomed the experience. It has become one she looks forward to each year. “It’s a time for spiritual renewal.” Rev. Fulker hopes the services offer exactly that. “It’s a place where we can renew old friendships, forge new friendships, and it’s a place we can witness to our faith … where we can renew, refresh and revive ourselves in our faith of God.” ————— Services are Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.; Saturday at 8 p.m.; and Sunday at 11 a.m., with Sunday School at 10 a.m. Pastors and choirs from area churches will participate in the services.
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© 2001 Lincoln Times-News |
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