What began with the vision of a well-loved and popular radio preacher has evolved into a powerful ministry that draws guests from around the world.
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, God provided an unusual opportunity for Dr. George Palmer, pastor of Haddon Heights Baptist Church in Haddon Heights, NJ, to host one of the earliest Christian radio broadcasts. During this time when businesses, banks, and government were failing, the daily Morning Cheer broadcast brought good news and hope. Dr. Palmer’s biblical teaching stressed God’s omniscience and control, and the show’s theme song reminded all that “Jesus Never Fails.”
In 1946, property was acquired on the North East River in Cecil County, MD, for establishing a summer tent revival and camp meeting facility. Camps were built for children, numerous mission projects were accomplished worldwide, and Sandy Cove Bible Conference was born.
Summer after summer, guests flocked to Sandy Cove to hear some of the most prominent speakers and preachers teach the Word of God and listened to inspiring concerts performed by top Christian musicians.
During the late 1980s, the Chesapeake Lodge & Conference Center was built for year-round ministry opportunities. This spacious facility continues to serve as a focal point of the ministry, offering comfort and hospitality to multitudes of men, women and children each year through our events, getaways, and group retreats.
Throughout our history, there have been six presidents for Morning Cheer, Inc., now known as Sandy Cove Ministries: Dr. George Palmer, his son, Rev. Bob Palmer, Rev. Neil Fichthorn, Dr. Sandy Outlar, Rev. Mark P. Fisher, and Stephen J. Weaver. In those years, thousands have received Christ, grown spiritually, been spurred on to full-time ministry, enjoyed meeting together, and experienced rejuvenation when vacationing with fellow Christians.
Pictured in order of service: Dr. George Palmer (1946-1972), Rev. Bob Palmer (1972-1990), Rev. Neil Fichthorn (1990-2000), Dr. Sandy Outlar (2000-2005), Rev. Mark P. Fisher (2006-2013), Stephen J. Weaver (2014-current)
From 1950 – 2018, overnight youth camps were held on numerous properties, all dedicated to sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and to helping young people develop a relationship with their Creator.
Camp Sandy Hill for Boys, Camp Sandy Cove for Girls, and Hilltop Ranch for Teenagers in Maryland near Sandy Cove Ministries
Camp Sandy Cove for Boys and Girls in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania
Camp Sandy Cove for Boys and Girls in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of West Virginia
Since 2001, The Marsh Day Camp has offered children fun, challenges, excitement, and opportunities for learning and spiritual growth in Sandy Cove Ministries’ local community.
