A plaque at Canyon Camp reads, “We give thanks and praise to God for the vision and stewardship of Mr. & Mrs. Lewis B. Miller for the gift of Canyon Camp, dedicated to mission and ministry for children and adults.” In the early 1900s, the Millers donated 550 acres, as well as funds for utility lines and a building at the camp, located near Hinton, Oklahoma. Since then, additional donations by others have helped create this unique campground.
Over the years, thousands of adults and children have experienced God between these red canyon walls. Church camp typically includes worship, fellowship, service and discipleship; the elements that are crucial in moving people closer to God.
This summer, 5-year-old Miller Dick and his father, Colby, attended SonShine Camp at Canyon Camp with our group of first and second graders from St. Luke’s Children’s Ministries. Miller is the great-great grandson of Mr. & Mrs. Lewis B. Miller. Colby and Miller stood in front of Miller Hall where we took photos and celebrated the occasion. As we stood there, I couldn’t help but wonder if the Millers could have imagined that their great-great grandson would one day be attending Canyon Camp. I wonder if they realized that their single generous act of kindness would impact their own family through the generations. Miller and the other campers enjoyed hiking, swimming, playing mini golf and horseshoes, sleeping in bunk beds in the cabins, worshipping in the tabernacle, eating in the dining hall, making crafts and playing games both inside and out. It was a fun-filled weekend, with God at the center of every activity.
Scott Adams, the creator of the Dilbert cartoon said, “Remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” I didn’t know Mr. & Mrs. Lewis B. Miller, but I know something about them; they were kind and generous visionaries. Thanks be to God for Miller’s great-great grandparents.
Susan Easttom, Director of Children’s Ministries
