For over 60 years, camp Pitombeira has been serving the church in Northeastern Brazil. The camp grounds are utilized by churches for retreats, children and youth camps, and leadership events. It’s a place where people come and hear the gospel for the first time, where church members and leaders can get away from their normal routines for a time of rest and spiritual rejuvenation, and where the next generation of believers are discipled and trained for ministry.

Although founded by Avant missionaries, the camp is entirely managed by a team of Brazilians, and it is self-sustaining as far as normal maintenance and operating expenses. It has required very few major updates since its beginning in 1960. However, after 60 plus years of hosting camps and retreats, there are naturally a few projects that need attention.

Camp Pitombeira’s main chapel was built in 1960 and was originally intended to be a provisional meeting place. It has served the camp well for many years and has had no major issues. However, the roof is now needing to be replaced due to rotting wood. Funds are needed to purchase wood for this project so the chapel can continue serving its purpose for many more years.

Another major project at the camp is the renovation of the water tower. For the past several years it has been leaking badly. Professionals have looked at it and have recommended installing an impermeable membrane to the interior of the tower. This method has been used locally with great success. The camp plans to hire professionals to apply this inner membrane. What is needed is funding to complete the project.

These two projects are vital to camp Pitombeira’s ability to continue operating, but these expenditures are beyond the camps current financial capacity. Helping to provide funds for these updates will be a huge blessing and encouragement to the camp committee, staff, and all those who visit the camp throughout the year.