CHARLESTON, SC – August 29, 2024 – Today the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina announced the purchase of 78 acres of waterfront property on Lady’s Island in Beaufort which will serve as the future home of their new camp and retreat center, Camp Jubilee.
“This is a significant milestone in the rebuilding of the diocese,” said the Rt. Rev. Chip Edgar, bishop of the Diocese. “Camp provides a place where kids and adults can come away from their regular routines to meet Jesus in new and profound ways. We now have a place dedicated just for that. We’re rejoicing.”
“We are overwhelmed and awed by the Lord’s grace and generosity,” said the Rev. Ken Weldon, Executive Director of Camp Jubilee. “We want to thank everyone who has made this vision a reality: the individual donors, the churches who have partnered with us, and all those who have given of their resources and energy to acquire this property for the glory of God and the ministry of Camp Jubilee.”
The undeveloped maritime and mature upland forest property includes one mile of waterfront. “One third of that is deepwater creek,” said Weldon, “which will be perfect for swimming and water sports.” The remaining two thirds is marsh.
The Diocese has raised $3M of the $3.7M needed to purchase the property. “We’re now focused on completing this phase of fundraising,” says Weldon, “and are well underway with site planning with local architects and engineers.”
The conceptual development plans include six summer camp cabins for 120 campers, 12 two-bedroom guest cottages for retreat center guests, a dining hall, a recreation hall, a swimming pool, and a recreation field.
The property is a 10-minute drive or three-minute boat ride from downtown Beaufort. “We’re excited to be in such close proximity to downtown,” says Weldon. “You can see downtown Beaufort from the edge of our property. We’ve already begun establishing friendships with our neighbors on Lady’s Island and are looking forward to being good neighbors and partnering with the community of Beaufort.”
“Just 13 months ago, we didn’t even know this property existed,” he said, “and today, the Lord has given it to us. This place, this ministry, and this project have been and will continue to be in God’s hands. To Jesus Christ be all honor and glory, now and always.”