During this time, not much has changed at the camp. But things are about to change for the better. Good Counsel Camp, a ministry of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, has commenced a Master Planning process called, “For the Good.” This undertaking is for the good of the Camp and future campers. 

The goal is to enhance nearly every aspect of camp Life, from facilities to food, from property to programming. Master Planning involves reviewing and enhancing the safety and functionality of all buildings, developing a vision to strengthen Catholic identity, exploring opportunities to grow and expand the mission, and identifying resources to invest in the future. Those familiar with Good Counsel Camp know that many facilities are outdated. 

The Camp’s Board of Directors recommended that Good Counsel Camp undertake a Master Planning process, proceed as expeditiously as possible and suspend operations of the summer camp program for 2025. Bishop Gregory Parkes accepted this recommendation. This means Good Counsel Summer Camp for 7–15-year-olds is suspended for 2025.  But 2026 opportunities are expected to be better than ever before.

Bishop Parkes has made Youth and Young Adult Ministry a priority for the Diocese of Saint Petersburg since he launched Courageously Living the Gospel in 2018. He has expanded staffing of the diocesan Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office and supported numerous formation events geared toward young people across the Diocese, such as Roar of the Rosary, Eucharistic Encounter, Youth Rallies, and the Known Conference. He also encouraged the parishes in Citrus County to raise funds to enhance the Camp in 2019. However, there has never been a Master Planning process to take a comprehensive look at what’s needed to keep the Camp a viable and faith-filled opportunity for youth and young adults in the future.

Master Planning at Our Lady of Good Counsel Camp is another way to strengthen the Church’s commitment to young people.