Loss of buildings at Okanagan Anglican Camp now confirmed

UPDATE: In a nutshell, photographs taken from the lakeside confirm that ninety percent of the camp infrastructure is destroyed. Camp was successfully and safely evacuated Thursday afternoon and there were no injuries sustained. A pastoral letter from Archbishop Lynne can be read here. Heard on CBC Radio Tuesday afternoon, Camp director, Ian Dixon said that plans are already coming together regarding rebuilding. Information regarding contributions are contained in the Bishop’s letter. Camp . . . will rise from the ashes, stronger than ever.

A message from Archbishop Lynne McNaughton, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kootenay, Friday, August 18, 2023

Yesterday afternoon, in the midst of a volatile wind with the McDougall Creek Fire in West Kelowna, Ian Dixon, Camp OAC director, the Dean and myself, and the Rev. Austin Spry, who was at camp as chaplain this week, hired busses and were able to make the right call to evacuate the camp before receiving an actual evacuation order. We had parents pick up the majority of campers in the late afternoon, and by 8pm we had the remaining campers and staff bussed via Vernon to the Cathedral church of St. Michael and All Angels in Kelowna. Everyone was evacuated safely; thanks be to God!  All campers have now returned to their families.  Many staff stayed overnight at the Cathedral.  We had prayers last night and this morning, and time for debriefing.  Several campers and staff had families who were under evacuation order. 

I commend Ian Dixon and all the staff team for calm, professional care of campers through the evacuation.  We will arrange counseling for any staff or campers who need support in the days and weeks to come. 

We have no confirmations, and may have no official word for several days,  but it is likely that OAC structures have burned. This is deeply sad and distressing news.  As soon as it is safe, which may not be for days, we will tour the site and update you.

Many people – including members of our Diocese and campers – have lost their homes. We keep them in our prayers.   The uncertain winds and dry thunderstorms in the forecast make the next 2 days dangerous.  We pray for all who have been evacuated, all on alert, and all receiving evacuees.  We give thanks and pray for all those who are fighting the fires.

As I reminded staff this morning, in the midst of trauma, our God shelters us.  Jesus knows what it is to suffer loss and weep.  The Holy Spirit comforts us and strengthens us, often through community.  We support each other through this time, assured that God’s healing power is always at work.   May God bless you and keep you safe through this time.

Yours in Christ, +Lynne

Go here for photos of Camp OAC taken early one summer morning some years ago during happier times.

Prayers please for the Okanagan as the situation remains critical at this time. And for our country, and frankly, for our world.