It was over a year ago on the 4th of July 2025 that we gathered for the official groundbreaking of the new construction project at Camp Cross. What followed was the clearing and preparation of the site, 7 straight weeks of jack-hammering (not my favorite!), concrete foundations and walls going up, infrastructure installed, and many, many boats back and forth for people power and supplies.
Every step of the way was part grit, part prayer – countless conscious design choices large and small to honor the past and herald the future at Camp Cross. It’s been hard work and an honor to partner with our contractors to bring the vision for our new cabins and retreat house to life. And now we’re on the cusp of the ribbon-cutting ceremony and I’m as close to speechless as you’ll ever find me.
In the last two weeks, everything has started to come together from five new and separate buildings, into a little village. A whole space, waiting to welcome folks, connected by pathways and waiting for new wild (and planted) growth and greenery to creep back in and bind everything into the landscape. It’s better than I ever could’ve hoped or imagined, and humbly, respectfully, as someone with just three summers under my belt here, it feels like camp.
I owe so many of you so many thanks, for your financial contributions, for your messages of support and encouragement, and for your time on the ground sharing your feedback and opinions. Thank you to everyone featured in the fundraiser graphic across all tiers, especially to: Susan and Brian Cleveley, Joanne and Dan Cenis, All Saint’s in Richland (THANK YOU!), the Cathedral, Brian and Staci Prior, St. Matthew’s in Prosser, and St. Stephen’s in Spokane. My greatest thanks of all to Bishop Gretchen and her mom Margaret, whose unconditional love and support for Camp Cross and all who come here fill me with strength on the long days and in tough situations.
Camp Cross is blessed to have such a passionate and connected community and a rich history. We’re cutting the ribbon and blessing the new area of camp on August 8th. Cheers to the next chapter – come out and experience it for yourself!
Alex Flannagan
Executive Director of Camp Cross
Canon for Youth and Family Ministries
