Outdoor Ministries Association

The Outdoor Ministries Association (OMA) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that supports and connects the dynamic ministries of camps affiliated with various Christian denominations, such as the Church of the Brethren. The OMA's primary role is to connect, enliven, and support these camps in their mission to provide spiritual and outdoor experiences for diverse groups.

Mission and Role

OMA's mission is to nurture and strengthen the outdoor ministries sector, ensuring that these camps can serve as retreats where individuals can engage with nature and deepen their spiritual understanding. The organization aims to foster a sense of community among all people, including families, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, school children, and teenagers.

Programs and Activities

The camps associated with the OMA offer a wide range of programs, including:

• Summer Resident Camps: Providing children and youth with a residential camp experience that encourages personal growth, teamwork, and spiritual exploration.
• Retreats: Offering opportunities for reflection, communion with nature, and community building for adults and families.
• Outdoor Schools: Focusing on environmental education and outdoor skills.
• Adventure Programs: Engaging participants in activities that promote leadership, confidence, and teamwork.
• Family Camping: Encouraging intergenerational learning and bonding through shared outdoor experiences.

Tradition and Impact

The Church of the Brethren, one of the denominations closely associated with the OMA, has a long-standing tradition in outdoor ministries dating back to the 1920s. This tradition has evolved over the years to include 28 camps across the United States. These camps serve as beloved communities where the love of Jesus Christ is shared and felt, impacting thousands of lives.

EIN and Status

The Outdoor Ministries Association is registered under the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 823423291, denoting its status as a nonprofit entity in the United States.

[1] https://www.omaucc.org/who-we-are [2] https://www.omaucc.org [3] https://www.ucc.org/what-we-do/justice-local-church-ministries/local-church/faith-info/youth/outdoor/ [4] https://omacob.org [5] https://www.elca.org/our-work/related-ministries/outdoor-ministry