Camp
Since 2010, our team has been hosting apologetics camps for teens and young adults.
Stories about youth deconstruction and disaffiliation from the church vary but they almost always have this in common: unanswered or poorly answered questions. Providing good answers to good questions about Christianity is central to our mission!
Good questions deserve good answers!
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity for your teens (ages 15-18) and young adults (ages 19-20) to engage in impactful conversations, make strategic connections, and experience campus life at the oldest university west of the Mississippi River.
What are students saying?
ReThink315 is different in that they have so many speakers and panelists who are experts and, as smart as they are, they’re not judgmental of different ideas. I like that they all share the same principals and the main doctrines of Christianity, but they leave space for disagreement on the small things. They keep the main ideas the main ideas and don’t divide over the small stuff.
Even though all of the panelists here agree on the fundamentals, there are other topics Christians have different views on. That concept of “Mere Christianity” that C.S. Lewis talks about, in terms of all the things all Christians should agree on, is a great start. But I feel like it is very important to hear different views.
I just like to see people of all different backgrounds coming together. I don’t see a lot of other Christian camps or retreats like these with so many people speaking and teaching with such different backgrounds… When it comes to nonbelievers this is a great thing to model.
For more feedback, endorsements, and references, click here.
ReThink College Camp
ReThink College Camp
Camp Dates:
2027 TBA
(4 Days – 3 Nights)
Camp Location:
Saint Louis University
(Saint Louis, MO)
2027 Registration Coming Soon!
Student Interviews
ReThink College Camp 2026 Schedule
Tuesday, June 9
2:00 PM
ReThink Apologetics: Why Christianity Still Makes Sense
Jeremy Smith
Executive Director, ReThink315
Description
What is apologetics—and why does it matter? In a culture shaped by doubt, distraction, deconstruction, and endless competing truth claims, Christians are called not just to believe, but to think well and respond wisely. This session introduces students to the heart of apologetics and evangelism: loving God with your mind, understanding your faith, and learning how to engage real questions with truth, humility, and confidence.
Teaser Questions
- What is apologetics—and is it only for scholars and debaters?
- Why are so many students walking away from Christianity?
- Can faith and reason actually work together?
- How do we share truth without sounding arrogant or combative?
Key Scriptures
- 1 Peter 3:15
- Acts 17:22–31
- Matthew 22:37
4:00 PM
ReThink the Resurrection: Did Jesus Really Rise?
Matthew Heckel, PhD
Heritage Classical Christian Academy, Covenant Theological Seminary, Missouri Baptist University
Description
Christianity rises or falls on one claim: that Jesus rose from the dead. This session examines the historical evidence for the resurrection using the same methods historians apply to any ancient event. We’ll explore the empty tomb, eyewitness accounts, the transformation of the disciples, and alternative explanations—and ask whether the resurrection is the best explanation of the data.
Teaser Questions
- What evidence is there that Jesus actually rose from the dead?
- Could the resurrection accounts be legend or myth?
- What are the strongest arguments against the resurrection—and do they hold up?
- Why does the resurrection matter for your life today?
Key Scriptures
- 1 Corinthians 15:3–8
- Matthew 28:5–7
- Acts 2:32
Wednesday, June 10
9:00 AM
ReThink Church Unity: What Christians Agree On—and Why It Matters
James Fowlkes-Comninellis, MTS
Director, Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs
Description
Why are there so many Christian denominations—and does unity even matter anymore? This session explores the difference between essential doctrines and secondary disagreements while encouraging students to pursue both truth and charity. We’ll discuss how Christians can remain deeply convicted without becoming divisive, tribal, or cynical.
Teaser Questions
- Why are there so many denominations?
- Can Christians disagree and still be unified?
- What beliefs are essential—and which are secondary?
- How do we pursue truth without becoming arrogant or hostile?
Key Scriptures
- John 17:20–23
- Ephesians 4:1–6
- Romans 14:1–13
11:00 AM
ReThink Origins: Science, Genesis, and the Big Questions
Michael Farley, MDiv, PhD
Central Presbyterian Church, Covenant Theological Seminary
Description
Did God create the universe? How should Christians think about Genesis, evolution, intelligent design, and modern science? This session explores the relationship between faith and science while addressing some of the biggest questions students wrestle with about origins, meaning, purpose, and human identity.
Teaser Questions
- Are science and Christianity actually in conflict?
- What are Christians supposed to believe about Genesis?
- Did humans evolve—or were we specially created?
- Does the universe point beyond itself?
Key Scriptures
- Genesis 1:1
- Psalm 19:1
- Colossians 1:16–17
2:00 PM
ReThink the Bible: Can You Actually Trust It?
Shane Rosenthal, MA
The Humble Skeptic Podcast, ReThink315 Advisory Board
and
Kirk Clayton, PhD
Concordia Chicago
Description
Can we trust the Bible—or is it just a collection of edited legends and religious propaganda? In this session, we’ll explore how the Bible was written, preserved, and recognized across centuries. We’ll examine manuscript evidence, historical credibility, fulfilled prophecy, and the process behind the Old and New Testament canon. This isn’t blind faith—it’s a case built on history, transmission, and consistency.
Teaser Questions
- Has the Bible been changed or corrupted over time?
- Why were certain books included—and others left out?
- How do we know the Gospels are historically reliable?
- Can we trust the Bible more than other ancient texts?
Key Scriptures
- Luke 1:1–4
- 2 Timothy 3:16–17
- Isaiah 40:8
4:00 PM
ReThink Relationships: Dating, Marriage, and Human Flourishing
Panel Speakers TBA
Description
Everyone wants love, intimacy, and meaningful relationships—but few people agree on how to find them. In a culture filled with confusion about dating, marriage, sex, identity, and commitment, how can Christians navigate relationships with wisdom and grace? This panel explores God’s design for relationships, the realities of singleness and marriage, and what it means to pursue healthy, life-giving connections in today’s world.
Teaser Questions
- Why is dating harder than ever before?
- What is marriage actually for?
- Can you find lasting fulfillment in romance alone?
- How should Christians think about sex, singleness, and commitment?
- What does a healthy relationship really look like?
Key Scriptures
- Genesis 2:18–25
- Ephesians 5:21–33
- 1 Corinthians 13:4–8
Thursday, June 11
9:00 AM
ReThink Suicide: Purpose, Meaning, and the Value of Human Life
Benjamin Parviz, PhD (c)
Saint Louis University, Lewis and Clark Community College
Description
Many students today wrestle with hopelessness, despair, anxiety, and questions about whether life has meaning at all. This session explores suicide, suffering, assisted suicide, and the value of human life through historical, philosophical, theological, and personal reflection. Christianity does not ignore pain—it speaks directly into it with honesty and hope.
Teaser Questions
- Why are despair and hopelessness increasing today?
- Is life still meaningful when suffering feels overwhelming?
- How has Christianity historically viewed suicide?
- What does hope actually look like in dark seasons?
Key Scriptures
- Psalm 42
- Romans 8:38–39
- John 10:10
11:00 AM
ReThink Evil & Suffering: Where Is God When It Hurts?
Michael Carper, PhD
Missouri Valley College
and
Benjamin Parviz, PhD (c)
Saint Louis University, Lewis and Clark Community College
Description
If God is good and all-powerful, why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? This session tackles one of the most difficult and emotionally charged questions of faith. We’ll explore philosophical responses, biblical insight, and how Christianity uniquely speaks into both the reality of suffering and the hope of redemption.
Teaser Questions
- Why doesn’t God stop evil if He can?
- Is suffering evidence against God—or could it point to Him?
- Where is God when life feels unfair or painful?
- Can faith survive real suffering?
Key Scriptures
- Romans 8:18
- Genesis 50:20
- John 16:33
2:00 PM
ReThink Spiritual Formation: Who Are You Becoming?
Rachel Ferguson, PhD
Concordia Chicago, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Description
Every habit, relationship, distraction, and desire is shaping who you are becoming. This session explores spiritual formation, discipleship, habits, identity, and the slow process of becoming more like Christ in a distracted and hyper-anxious culture.
Teaser Questions
- What is spiritual formation—and is it happening whether we realize it or not?
- How are habits shaping your character?
- Why do distraction and busyness make spiritual growth difficult?
- What practices actually help us grow closer to God?
Key Scriptures
- Romans 12:2
- Galatians 5:22–23
- John 15:4–5
4:00 PM
ReThink Deconstruction: Doubt, Disillusionment, and Dechurching
Brandon Boos
Faith Lutheran Church Oakville, ReThink315 Advisory Board
and
Shane Rosenthal, MA
The Humble Skeptic Podcast, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Description
Why are so many people leaving the church—or rethinking everything they once believed? This session explores deconstruction, doubt, church hurt, hypocrisy, cynicism, and disaffiliation while asking what healthy questioning looks like and whether Christianity still offers a compelling vision of truth, goodness, and beauty.
Teaser Questions
- What is deconstruction—and is it always bad?
- How should Christians respond to church hurt and hypocrisy?
- Can doubt actually lead to deeper faith?
- Why are so many people walking away from Christianity?
Key Scriptures
- Jude 22
- John 6:66–69
- Psalm 73
6:30 PM
ReThink Miracles: Does God Still Act in the World?
Michael McClymond, PhD
Saint Louis University, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Description
Are miracles irrational, impossible, or misunderstood? This session examines the philosophical and historical arguments surrounding miracles while exploring whether belief in the supernatural still makes sense in a skeptical age.
Teaser Questions
- Are miracles violations of science—or something else?
- Can modern people rationally believe in the supernatural?
- Did miracles really happen in the Bible?
- What would count as evidence for a miracle today?
Key Scriptures
- John 20:30–31
- Acts 3:1–10
- Hebrews 2:3–4
Friday, June 12
9:00 AM
ReThink Mental Health: Faith, Struggle, and Real Hope
Chrissy P. Stergos, MAC, LPC
A Seat at the Table, Chesterfield Counseling Associates
and
Gina Birkemeier, MAC, LPC
Counselor, Author, Generations Deep
Description
Anxiety, depression, loneliness, and burnout are more common than ever. This session creates space for honest conversation about mental health while exploring how the Christian worldview speaks to suffering, identity, hope, and healing. We’ll emphasize both spiritual truth and practical wisdom.
Teaser Questions
- Is struggling with mental health a sign of weak faith?
- Where is God in anxiety or depression?
- How do you balance prayer, community, and getting real help?
- What does real hope look like when life feels overwhelming?
Key Scriptures
- Psalm 34:18
- Philippians 4:6–7
- 2 Corinthians 1:3–4
11:00 AM
ReThink Social Media and Technology: Who or What Is Forming You?
Chrissy P. Stergos, MAC, LPC
and
Gina Birkemeier, MAC, LPC
Description
Cell phones, social media, and technology in general connects us like never before—but it also shapes our identity, attention, relationships, and mental health in powerful ways. This session helps students think critically about how social media specifically and technology in general influences identity, self-worth, and relationships.
Teaser Questions
- Is social media helping you—or shaping you in ways you don’t see?
- Why do comparison and anxiety increase online?
- How does social media affect truth and identity?
- What does it look like to use social media with wisdom?
Key Scriptures
- Romans 12:2
- Proverbs 13:20
- Galatians 1:10
2:00 PM
ReThink Pop Culture: Movies, Music, Literature, and the Stories We Live By
David Lee, PhD
Missouri Baptist University, Popcorn Theology Podcast
and
Michael Carper, PhD
Missouri Valley College
Description
Stories shape us. The books we read, the movies we watch, and the music we love all carry meaning, values, and vision for the world. This session explores how Christians can thoughtfully engage culture—not by blindly consuming everything or rejecting it outright, but by learning to discern what is good, what can be redeemed, and what should be resisted.
Teaser Questions
- Should Christians avoid secular music, movies, and books?
- Can non-Christian stories still communicate truth?
- How do we discern what’s helpful versus harmful?
- What does it look like to engage culture without being shaped by it?
Key Scriptures
- Acts 17:22–28
- Philippians 4:8
- 1 Corinthians 10:31
4:00 PM
Farewell Session: ReThink Everything
Jeremy Smith and the ReThink315 Team
Description
As camp comes to a close, we’ll reflect on what we’ve learned, what challenged us, and what comes next. Christianity is not merely about winning arguments—it’s about pursuing truth, loving God and neighbor, and becoming faithful witnesses in a confused and hurting world.
Teaser Questions
- What challenged you most this week?
- How should your faith shape the way you live moving forward?
- What questions are you still wrestling with?
- What does it look like to follow Jesus with both heart and mind?
Key Scriptures
- Micah 6:8
- Matthew 22:37–39
- Colossians 2:6–8
Note On Essentials, Non-Essentials, and Debatable Matters
“In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.”
– Attributed to Rupertus Meldenius
Our board, staff, and speakers are theologically conservative but represent a variety of Christian traditions. As a denominationally neutral Christian ministry focused on apologetics and evangelism, we are committed to unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials, and charity in all things. Our team affirms the core doctrines of the historic Christian faith while making space for respectful differences of opinion on secondary issues.
When questions related to non-essentials arise at a ReThink315 event, we aim to present a range of perspectives—often through panel discussions—and encourage thoughtful dialogue without promoting division.
[Click Here] for our Faith Statement
ReThink College Camp 2026 Speakers
Gina Birkemeier, MAC, LPC
Counselor, Author, Generations Deep, Professor, Regent University
Rev. Brandon Boos
Faith Lutheran Church Oakville, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Michael Carper, PhD
Southwestern Illinois College
Rev. Kirk Clayton, MDIV, DipICA, PhD
Concordia Chicago, International Academy of Apologetics, Evangelism, and Human Rights
Rev. Mike Farley, MDIV, PhD
Central Presbyterian Church, Covenant Theological Seminary
Rachel Ferguson, PhD
Concordia Chicago, ReThink315 Advisory Board
James Fowlkes-Comninellis, MTS
Director, Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs
Matthew Heckel, PhD
Heritage Classical Christian Academy, Covenant Theological Seminary, Missouri Baptist University
David Lee, PhD
Missouri Baptist University, Popcorn Theology Podcast
Michael McClymond, PhD
Saint Louis University, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Benjamin Parviz, PhD (c)
Saint Louis University
Shane Rosenthal, MA
The Humble Skeptic Podcast, ReThink315 Advisory Board
Chrissy P. Stergos, MAC, LPC
A Seat at the Table, Crossroads Counseling Centers
Why Attend ReThink College Camp?
1. Intellectual and Emotional Growth:
“ReThink315 isn’t just about intellectual apologetics. It’s also about emotional maturity and building relationships. It’s a perfect blend.”
Students value our camp’s focus on both intellectual depth and emotional growth, making them feel confident in their faith and able to engage relationally with others.
2. High-Quality Teaching:
“The panelists here have decades of experience. You’re learning from people who really know their stuff.”
Students appreciate the depth of teaching and the ability to engage with experts who provide clear, evidence-based answers to their questions.
3. Relatable and Accessible:
“I’m not a philosophy major, but I can still understand and apply everything we learned. This isn’t just for the super-smart people.”
Our camp excels at making complex apologetics accessible to all students, no matter their background or academic level.
4. Real-Life Application:
“This camp gave me the tools to answer tough questions from my non-Christian friends. I now feel more prepared to defend my faith.”
Students are not only gaining knowledge, but also practical skills for applying that knowledge in real-world situations, like conversations with peers.
5. Warm and Welcoming Community:
“I walked in, and people were already talking to me. I felt welcome instantly, even though it was my first time here.”
Our camp’s welcoming environment ensures that all students feel at home, making it easy for newcomers to connect with others and get involved.
6. Well Rounded Christian Perspectives:
“It’s amazing to hear different views on Christianity but still see everyone agree on the essentials. There’s a real focus on discussion, not division.”
Students appreciate the diversity of thought at our camp, where different “non-essential” viewpoints are respected within the shared foundation of Christian beliefs.
7. Confidence in Defending Faith:
I’ve always had questions about my faith, but ReThink315 helped me answer them. Now I’m not just preaching it, I’m defending it.”
Our camp empowers students to defend their faith with confidence and clarity, not just blind assertions.
Summary:
According to students, ReThink College Camp stands out as a Christian youth camp that strikes a rare and effective balance between intellectual engagement and emotional maturity.
Our camp’s accessible approach to Christian apologetics and emphasis on practical application make it a unique and invaluable experience for any student serious about understanding and defending Christianity.
The combination of expert-led sessions, student-driven Q&A, and emphasis on relationships makes ReThink College Camp an essential experience for young Christians eager to grow in both knowledge and confidence.
Student Survey Results
(Click for a closer look!)
Endorsements…
"I travel and meet people in ministry around the world, and I can tell you that Jeremy Smith is a rare guy. He has a heart for the next generation, a love for the local church, and the experience to help people who love students to more effectively reach and disciple them. I expect great things from Jeremy and the team at ReThink315."
— Sean McDowell, Ph.D.
Author, Speaker, Associate Professor of Christian Apologetics at Biola University
"Jeremy Smith has years of valuable experience in this critical area of preparing the next generation to stand firm in their faith. The challenges of an often hostile secular culture will only get stronger with time, so I’m thrilled to see Jeremy and his team form this exciting vision for attacking the challenges head-on!"
— Natasha Crain
Speaker and Author of three apologetics books for parents, including Talking with Your Kids about Jesus
“…partnering with a local ministry named ReThink315, they put on an extraordinary evening, one of the best events I’ve ever been part of… We were all having such a good time that we continued with questions from the audience for another half hour or more... What a privilege to be partnered with such Christian leaders!”
— William Lane Craig, Ph.D.
Author, Speaker, Founder of Reasonable Faith
To read more endorsements from pastors, professors, and ministry leaders, CLICK HERE.
Sponsor A Young Adult Chaperone!
These young adults are committing a big chunk their summer vacation to training, leading small groups,
equipping students, and generally helping with our big camp. Please pray for them as they prepare for a long week!
Click Here to Sponsor a Young Adult Chaperone
John Claude Coffman
Forest Park Bible Church, St. Louis, MO
Goal: $500
I’m interested in serving at the Rethink College Camp because it's a valuable ministry. While I believe it 's important to have firm biblical convictions, I also believe that it is necessary to be informed about the views and ideas that differ from your own so that you can accurately test them with Scripture. If our goal in life is to make disciples of Christ, then we must be able to intelligently interact with those God has put before us. The power to save is in the gospel, but we need to be ready to clear away any intellectual stumbling blocks that might give people trouble growing to know the Lord. I hope that by being a volunteer at this camp, I can in some way help those attending grow in their knowledge of Scripture and what they believe about it.
Jeffery Wells McMillian
Christ Fellowship Bible Church, St. Louis, MO
Goal: $500
I like serving at Rethink College Camp because it gives me an opportunity to know what the next generation believes about Jesus. One of my favorite parts of camp last year was how often I was able to connect with students to see how Jesus was impacting their lives. I also enjoyed interacting with students who were struggling with their beliefs. It was such a helpful lesson in how to have beneficial gospel conversations. ReThink315 really fosters a healthy environment to ask questions. We’re also exposing students to the types of conversations that they’ll have when they get to college. Doing all this on a college campus adds a tremendous amount of preparation for the future.
Brandon Johnson
Reach Church, St. Louis, MO
Goal: $500
During my sophomore year of high school, I struggled to make friends and struggled to apply my Christian faith in the real world. That summer, I went to an apologetics camp that Jeremy and his team ran, and everything changed. The encouraging, Biblical atmosphere with leaders and fellow students was better than anything else I had experienced. My faith and confidence skyrocketed after that, and I'll always be grateful. I have volunteered and will continue to volunteer for ReThink315 to sow into the students in the same way that I was sowed into.
Leo Kniffen
Matthias' Lot Church, St. Charles, MO
Goal: $500
As a former atheist who was curious about Christianity, I understand the importance of apologetics. I struggled to come to Christ because no one could answer my questions. The Christians I encountered were either unwilling or unprepared to address the intellectual challenges I brought up. I had to take it upon myself to seek answers. It was a difficult and time-consuming journey. A camp like ReThink would have been an invaluable resource during that time of seeking answers. It would have given me the opportunity to meet people who were not only prepared but eager to engage with my questions. Thankfully, I eventually met a few such individuals, and they played a vital role in my decision to accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I now strive to be like those who helped me—because today, I am a strong and passionate follower of Jesus, and I want to support others in their journey
Jeffrey Krumm
Red Church, St. Louis, MO
Goal: $500
My own college years were marked by rebellion against Christ. My relationship with Him today isn’t perfect, but it’s real, alive, and growing. That redemption fuels my passion to pour into this generation of students who might be wrestling with the same questions, doubts, and identity struggles I once did.
My heart burns to help others understand that apologetics isn't just about having the right answers—it's about pointing people to the truth and radical love of Jesus Christ. I’m eager to learn more about apologetics myself so I can more effectively teach and walk alongside college-aged men and women in their faith journey.
I also believe this opportunity is an answer to prayer. I’m looking forward to seeing how He moves through this camp—not just in the lives of the students, but in the city as a whole. I’m expectant, ready to serve, and grateful to be a part of what God is doing.
David Holbrook III
Goal: $500
Esther Holbrook
Goal: $500
Sam Kinzinger
1st Baptist Church, O'Fallon, IL
Goal: $500
As a former, this camp is very special to me. The camp staff and speakers weren’t just focused on my intellectual growth, though that was important too. Along with the students, they formed a community that accepted me as I am and welcomed my struggles, doubts, and questions. They created a warm, family-like atmosphere that truly healed my heart. I also formed great friendships with other students—something that had been difficult for me before camp.
This camp is one of the most authentic Christian camps I’ve ever attended! I want these students to have the same awesome experience I did. I’m excited to pour into them and help them grow in their faith. I want them to know that God cares deeply for them in their pain. This opportunity to serve would mean so much to me because ReThink315 changed my life.
Mollie Monje
First Baptist Church House Springs, MO
Goal: $500
This camp and this ministry is important to me because I have always been passionate about sharing the gospel and gaining more knowledge in order to do that better. This camp helps students gain new perspectives on a variety of topics that may help them further their ability to share the gospel. I appreciate the unique opportunity it gives students to hear from knowledgeable people from all different backgrounds and perspectives, which can be valuable when deciding what they believe, and how to share that with others. This camp has had a great impact on my own faith and knowledge. Now I am passionate about volunteering so I can help others learn from all these speakers and panellists.
We Appreciate Our Sponsors!
