By Tim Strickland, Director of Christ in the Smokies

Our Passage to Manhood camp took place in June of 2024. It was a huge success. Every camp is unique and tailored by God to meet the needs of those who attend. This camp was no exception.

For the first time, we had two pairs of international father-son campers, as well as fathers and sons from all over our great country. These guys showed up and were ready to jump in and go deep. While it sometimes takes a little more warming up, these fathers and sons were not waiting.  It was a great time of sharing and significant authenticity.

A father came with his son who is launching to college this fall. Dad said he brought his son in for a “tune-up” and, low and behold, he (dad) got an “overhaul.”

We heard about prayers that were answered. One of the sons wrote his dad a letter in which he prayed his dad would seek reconciliation with his own father. Before dad had a chance to read his son’s letter, he was moved by the Holy Spirit and communicated to his son that he was planning on that reconciliation. What a God moment for the two of them!

Another father came to this country on his own many years ago and had been estranged from his father, whom he really never knew. Once he was married and had a family of his own, someone connected him with his father. They made plans, and he took his family to meet his dad, spending four days together. It was a time of healing and goodness, but he also felt like it would be the last time he would see his father. Unfortunately, his father did pass away three years later; however, God had orchestrated and provided healing through their reunion. During camp, many stories are shared, and he was determined to tell his before camp ended, but he couldn’t quite find the right time. On the last day, as the men in the group were saying their goodbyes, he realized it was his last chance—and he shared. It was impactful and powerful, and he blessed the group more than he could have imagined.

These are just a few of the stories that we hear at Passage to Manhood. If you or someone you know comes to mind, I’d say don’t miss out this year. Join us June 15-19, 2025.