In the early 60's, George Aikman attended a Men's Retreat that focused on communicating with God in the glory of nature. The experience touched him, and he came home with a dream to build a place where people could go and discover God's greatness in a natural setting. George, and his wife Marcella, went on a search for a special place. The Lord led them to a farm in Springville, IN, and out of this special property emerged Camp Olivet.


(Special thanks to Denise Yoke for these historic photos of Olivet in the 60s.)

Since 1963, Camp Olivet has been a special place in the lives of many people that have come to know the Lord. Many members of Southminster accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior at Camp Olivet, or were baptized in the creek. Many lives have been touched, and the Lord has richly blessed Southminster through this ministry.

Every year, Southminster sponsors two weeks of Camp Olivet for the youth of the church, as well as an outreach to the community. Staffed by volunteers, mostly former campers, Camp Olivet is a week of bible study, crafts, activities, worship, praise music and great food.

Although George and Marcella have since passed away, they had the forethought to establish The Olivet Foundation - a non-profit organization that oversees the operation and maintenance of the camp. The Olivet Foundation carries on their dream for the many churches, organizations, and children that use its facilities throughout the year.

In July 2006, some forty-years after the first tents were pitched in the fields of Olivet, some 86 Campers attended Camp Olivet. They experienced the traditions, strengthened their personal walks with Christ and experience tells us that many will be the future Counselors and Staffers to the next generation. 
George & Marcella, The dream has been realized!

For more information on Camp Olivet, please contact Southminster or The Olivet Foundation