Mission Trip Recap - Big Sky Bible Camp, Montana
Kirk Kingsley
Editor’s note: This month, Kirk Kingsley shares about the youth ministry’s recent mission trip to Camp Promise. One of the many blessings of being part of Hillside is seeing our youth so passionate about serving the Lord. Under Kirk’s leadership, these young men and women model a childlike faith - bold, unashamed of the Gospel, and eager to share the love of Jesus Christ.
Kirk shares the following:
As we prepare for our upcoming Big Sky Brain Bash fundraiser on November 7, we can’t help but reflect on what it’s all for. Last summer, our students and leaders traveled to Big Sky Bible Camp in Montana, serving at Camp Promise—a ministry that loves and lifts up people of all abilities. Here’s a look back at some of the moments that remind us why this mission matters.
Our student ministry had the privilege of taking 16 students and 5 leaders to the breathtaking state of Montana to serve at Big Sky Bible Camp’s Camp Promise—a ministry dedicated to people touched by disability. Camp Promise is truly a place for everyone, with a mission to glorify God by sharing the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ, fostering meaningful community with people of all abilities, and encouraging families impacted by disability.
From day one, our students were immersed in the heart of this ministry. We began with training and orientation, learning about the camp’s mission, how to assist campers with disabilities, and how to be ready for anything—especially when unexpected weather moved us from tents to new accommodations.
When campers arrived on Tuesday, the real joy began. Each day was filled with chapel (where campers learned the Lord’s Prayer), arts and crafts, archery tag “dragon slaying,” big ball volleyball, field games, boating, swimming, and more. Our students walked alongside their assigned campers in every activity, led cabin devotionals, and even pitched in at mealtimes.
By week’s end, the team was exhausted—but their hearts were full. Hearing a camper say, “Thank you, I’ll miss you” made every challenge worth it. We were humbled to hear returning parents and staff say, “The Michigan group is back!” and to know our presence has left a lasting impact. They’ve already asked us to return next summer.
Outside of camp, we embraced Montana’s beauty—rafting, hiking, cliff jumping, and even spotting wildlife. These moments reminded us of God’s incredible creation and the joy of living fully present in His world.
We can’t end this recap without saying thank you. Whether you gave financially, prayed faithfully, or encouraged us from home, you were part of this mission. Your generosity made it possible for our students to step outside their comfort zones, live out their faith, and serve with compassion. Because of your support, they didn’t just go on a trip—they became the hands and feet of Jesus, and lives (including their own) were changed.
Praise God for His work in and through this team—and for the faithful community that sends and supports them.