June is an exciting month for Arizona because it allows members to escape to a favorite mountain hideaway—Camp Yavapines—nestled in the cooler altitudes of Prescott, Ariz. Excitement builds for both Anglo and Hispanic camp meetings and for the summer youth camp program.

Planners have created a lineup of well-known guest speakers and musicians for camp meeting, which begins Friday, June 10, and continues through Saturday, June 18.

"We look forward to the presence of the Holy Spirit and anticipate a special blessing at camp meeting 2005 as we work together to help finish the work in Arizona so Jesus can come," says Arizona Conference President Duane McKey.

Opening weekend will feature Frank Ottati, pastor of the Houston West church in Texas. The special musical guest will be Walter Arties, who began his career singing for Billy Graham and was encouraged to continue using his vocal gift by Ethel Waters.

Ron Watts, president of the Southern Asia Division for the past eight years, will present evening meetings. Dorothy, his wife, a prolific author, will speak at the early morning meetings.

Mark and Teenie Finley will also be featured speakers. Teenie will train attendees how to reach people for Christ, and Mark will present closing weekend meetings. Sandy Wyman will not only share her vocal artistry during the closing weekend, but will also share the story of her late son, Trevor.

Other camp meeting speakers will include evangelist Lyle Albrecht, who has led more than 5,000 to Christ; Dr. Timothy Arnott, a physician at Lifestyle Center of America and frequent guest on 3ABN; Dr. Hyveth Williams, pastor of Loma Linda Campus Hill church.

Hispanic camp meeting will be from June 20 through 25. Special guest speaker will be Ramon Canals.

Youth Camps

After camp meeting comes the Camp Yavapines summer youth camp program, " Fun in the SON! " This summer’s camp schedule is as follows:

Swim Camp, June 12-17, is open to children of parents who are attending camp meeting as well as any others who may wish to apply; Spanish Day Camp, June 20-25, is open to children of parents who are attending the Hispanic camp meeting; Junior Camp, June 26 to July 3, is for children ages 10-13; Adventurer Camp, July 3-17 is for children ages 7-10 and ends Thursday afternoon; Super Junior Camp, July 3-10, is for ages 11-13; Guitar Camp #1, July 11-13, is for ages 11-13 and includes a new guitar for each participant; Teen Camp, July 10-17, is for ages 13-16; Aquatics Camp, July 10-17, is for ages 13-16 (space is limited to 18 campers); Guitar Camp #2, July 10-17, is for ages 13-16 and is for those campers who already know basic guitar.

Camp Yavapines will also provide Blind Camp in conjunction with Christian Record Services for blind and visually impaired children and adults. Activities will be much the same as for other campers, including horseback riding, swimming and crafts.

"I promise that you will have tons of fun at camp,” says summer camp director Tony Anobile. “And the best part of all is that as you are having fun, we will introduce you to Jesus Christ. He wants to be your best friend. Plus, with Jesus you are guaranteed to have ‘Fun in the SON,’ so don’t miss out!"