Over 60 years ago, the Lord laid on the hearts of the Sicklers and Linebaughs the need to start a youth camp in Northwest PA that would proclaim the name of Christ. After much prayer and waiting on the Lord for things to fall into place, Miracle Mountain Ranch began its ministry. 60 years later, the Lord has been gracious to use the Ranch to impact thousands of folks over the years with the truth, hope, and love of Christ.
What was started as solely a summer camp has grown into a year-round ministry. The Ranch is blessed to not only continue to host summer camps, but also retreats, events, and our School of Discipleship. We’ve branched out with an annual mission trip to Mexico and travel to conventions and conferences in various states. Attendees fly in from all over the world, and we’ve now hosted multiple international students in our SOD program. What started as a tiny camp on a rural hilltop has extended into the world!
The Box Cross brand, (which you will find on our publications, in the name of one of our riding arenas, and on the left hip of many of our horses) reminds me of the calling of this ministry since it began. The Cross in the middle of the Box reminds me that Christ is to be the center of all that we do. Each side of the Box represents the 4 E’s that we purpose to do as a ministry; Evangelizing to the lost, Establishing believers in their faith, Equipping them for effective Kingdom work, and finally Extending (or sending) them out to impact the world for Christ. This was the mantle that was faithfully handed to me 14 years ago, and it is the one that I am committed to handing off when my tenure here is done.
Having served here for over 30 of the camp’s 60 years, I remember many of the staff that have come and gone. God has wonderfully provided a great diversity of gifts and talents, passions, and pursuits amongst our staff. Truly, the Ranch’s resident staff are one of our greatest assets. In the 1960s, the staff was composed of a few staff pioneers who were willing to step out in faith to see the ministry begin, and in a sense, that spirit is still a part of the staff today. We are always asking ourselves how we can do things more effectively. Our resident staff serve on mission support: they trust the Lord to provide for their needs as they serve here.
Has our world changed in 60 years? Most definitely! The culture has changed dramatically and the needs of our attendees continue to be ever-changing, but the answer remains the same; Jesus. He remains the only true source of lasting hope. He is the only way we might find eternal life. He is the giver of peace, restorer of what is broken, and redeemer of our souls. He transcends cultural patterns and divides. He is the answer to all of it.
What these 60 years have shown us is that we serve a faithful God who has sustained His ministry through many highs and lows. We are completely aware that even beyond talent or ability, it is the Lord that gives success. It is He that protects and provides, enables and strengthens. So thank you Lord, for all of your goodness over these 60 amazing years!
