Spiritual Life at the MVCMA includes regular Sunday Service during the season and features an incredible roster of preachers from all over. We also host bible study, children's programming (Jr. Camp Meeting), speakers, events, and more.

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The first Methodist Camp Meeting was held in Wesleyan Grove in 1835, and the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association was incorporated in 1868 for the purpose of maintaining annual religious meetings on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. Since that time, the Association has grown through many changes, evolving into what is now a community that welcomes people of all faiths.

 

Over the years the MVCMA has become increasingly interdenominational. Whereas the MVCMA was established by Methodists, and, for much of its history, was governed exclusively by Methodists, it has always been an autonomous organization and was never formally affiliated with the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church. Historical records document the participation of many non-Methodists at the early camp meetings, both in the congregation and in the pulpit.

​The Tabernacle continues to exist as a “Beacon to All” and continues to serve as a religious and cultural center for the residents of the Campground, Oak Bluffs and the Island itself. It is the largest venue on the Vineyard and, with its marvelous acoustics and beautiful setting, local groups, musical groups, individual performers, theater groups, choruses and even the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra find enthusiastic audiences. The MVCMA offers a wide variety of cultural and religious programs throughout the summer season.