We’re excited to share some big news from Camp Mount Luther! Our CaTALYST young adult faith community has been honored with the Innovative Program Award from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries (LOM), a nationwide network of outdoor ministry organizations. CaTALYST only launched in September, and already it’s being recognized as a creative, forward-thinking ministry.
What is Catalyst?
CaTALYST is a faith community designed by young adults for young adults. Rooted in the way of Jesus, the community gathers in love, seeks deep relationships, and supports one another as they work to shape a better world.
Engagement happens daily, weekly, and monthly—both in-person and online through Discord. Whether it’s dinner church, service projects, Bible study, or online game nights, every gathering focuses on building community and nurturing faith.
"What if camp could last all year?"
After accepting the award, Rev. Jim Vitale, associate director at Camp Mount Luther, reflected on the heart behind CaTALYST’s creation:
“The connections we make with youth and young adults at summer camp are temporary. Campers and staff come together for a week or the summer and then go their separate ways. And yet we know campers and summer staff long to carry this community with them throughout the year. So, we asked ourselves, what if we could do just that? What if we could create a year-round faith community here at Camp Mount Luther? We are working with a team of young adult staff to develop this new community and already we are seeing the joy and excitement that comes with a new community centered on Jesus.”
With the help of dedicated young adult volunteers, that vision is now becoming reality—and the joy and energy within the community are already evident.
celebrating at the great gathering
The award was presented during LOM’s annual meeting during the Great Gathering. Held November 9–12, 2025, at Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, the Great Gathering brings together about 500 outdoor ministry professionals and board members from across the country and six different Christian traditions.
Representing Camp Mount Luther were Executive Director Chad W. Hershberger (Mifflinburg), Associate Director Rev. Jim Vitale Jr. (Harrisburg), and board member Sister Marianne Brock (Mechanicsburg), who also attended on behalf of the ELCA Foundation.
This year’s conference theme—“Reimagine: A Way in the Wilderness”—invited leaders to rethink how outdoor ministries can connect with people in a rapidly changing cultural and economic landscape. Participants shared best practices, explored new ideas, and encouraged one another to continue strengthening the impact of outdoor ministry.
Join Catalyst!
We invite you to experience CaTALYST for yourself! Learn more here, and join our Discord!