By Tim Yarbrough, Director of Communications and Development, Arkansas Right to Life
HUMPHREY, Ark. – “What a beautiful setting for a retreat,” an adult participant remarked as he surveyed the CrossHeirs Retreat Center lodge surrounded by farmland and nestled beside the Bayou Meto tributary in rural Humphrey, Arkansas.
Amid the serene and peaceful setting, students ages 13-19, workshop leaders, and guests discussed the reality and horrors of abortion, euthanasia, and infanticide at the 2023 Camp Joshua Pro-Life Youth Camp August 28-30.
During the three-day camp, students participated in team activities and games, ate great food, connected with pro-life leaders, and had time to reflect and consider how they can strengthen their pro-life advocacy as young adults.
“Camp Joshua is an educational weekend for students to learn all about important pro-life issues and to become the pro-life leaders of the future,” said Rose Mimms, executive director of Arkansas Right to Life (ARTL), which has sponsored the event since 2013.
Camp Joshua workshops and their leaders were “Abortion 101,” led by Dr. Joe Cloud, retired OB/GYN physician and member of the ARTL board of directors; “The Impact of Abortion,” led by Karen Garringer of the Deeper Still ministry; Euthanasia 101,” led by Monty Self, healthcare ethics consultant, and “Alternatives to Abortion,” led by Shelley Lewis, executive director of the Arkansas Pregnancy Resource Center.
On the final day of Camp Joshua Mimms led the morning session, “Pro-Life in Arkansas” designed to update students on the status of abortion and euthanasia laws in the state, which was followed by a tour of the State Capitol and a civic duty session led by Rep. Julie Mayberry (R-92). Before dismissal, students participated in a commissioning ceremony held in the old Supreme Court chambers.
For more information visit CampJoshuaAR.org or call (501) 663-4237.