LIVING OUT GRATITUDE THROUGH SERVICE
Faith in-action at Mount Pisgah
By Maddie Cuppia, Class of 2027
As Thanksgiving draws near, we’re reminded that there are numerous ways to express gratitude. At Mount Pisgah, this looks like showing compassion, generosity and providing others with the opportunity to hear God’s word. These values instilled by the community and culture at MPCS don’t confine themselves to the campus, however; students take the time to serve local communities. One of the ways they do this is through serving at Camp Lighthouse, an organization that embodies Christ’s service, kindness and gratitude, showing what it means to live out faith in action.
The Heart of Camp Lighthouse
Camp Lighthouse is a summer camp founded on compassion and service, providing experiences like no other. Senior Christian Lange has been a crucial part of Camp Lighthouse’s mission for many years, highlighting what makes it stand out from other summer camps.
“Camp Lighthouse’s mission is to be an open hand to children who are in shelter homes and for those in need by being a getaway trip where they get the blessing of worshiping God in community and a chance to express themselves freely,” explained Lange.
Partnering with numerous Atlanta and Greater Atlanta homeless shelters, Camp Lighthouse embodies the traits of the Lord, spreading the Gospel and God’s love to as many people as possible, regardless of their circumstances.
“EVERY kid should have a chance to experience a Christian summer camp regardless of their life circumstances or socioeconomic background. It was out of this conviction and calling that Camp Lighthouse was birthed,” states Camp Lighthouse.
Building Relationships and Sharing God's Love
The camp operates with a one-on-one camper-to-counselor ratio, enabling personal relationships and meaningful mentorship. Specifically, counselors provide spiritual guidance and a safe space for all children who attend camp, supported by adult staff members at all times. Altogether, Camp Lighthouse exists to share God’s love through a strong sense of community, meaningful relationships, and joyful experiences, serving as a one-of-a-kind place for those who attend.
Senior Ella English has been serving at Camp Lighthouse for the past three years, and she loves talking about how incredible the place is and the significant impact it has on everyone.
"No matter what age of camper you have, we counselors always get to step up to make sure the camper has the best week. I love being able to be a part of the Camp Lighthouse mission and, more importantly, the community,” explained English.
Without fail, each week of camp reminds counselors to be grateful for what God has given and to give that same love to others. It’s the power of Thanksgiving—showing compassion, love and gratitude through acts of service.
Moments that will last a lifetime
With this, Lange explained how evident the Lord is in the relationships he’s been able to build with his campers. He stressed that many moments come to mind, but one stands out in particular.
“One year, my camper ran and jumped into my arms off the bus, and time froze like it was a Disney movie,” explained Lange.
English shared how it’s in the little moments that she sees that God’s love is constant. Her first year, she had a camper who was terrified of the camp lake, stopping herself from jumping in every time. However, English continued to encourage her to jump in, and it eventually paid off.
“In the last few minutes of us being there, she gained the confidence to do it. Those kinds of memories show how special camp truly is, because yes, that might seem like a small thing to some people, but I will remember that forever,” explained English.
Living Thanksgiving Every Day
In a season that celebrates thankfulness, Camp Lighthouse reminds us that the greatest gift we can offer is ourselves—serving with joy, loving with purpose, and shining light into the lives of others. The work done at camp displays God’s love and the true meaning of Thanksgiving. The mission of Camp Lighthouse continues to grow—you can join the family and serve those around you by exploring more opportunities at camplighthouse.org.
So, this Thanksgiving season, remember: gratitude isn’t just something we feel, it’s something we live. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a heart willing to serve, we each have the power to make someone else’s world a little brighter.
