Shivangi Sinha
In Netflix’s ‘I Still Believe,’ Jeremy Camp draws strength and comfort from the unwavering support of his parents, Tom and Teri Camp. This portrayal reflects real life closely as Tom and Teri have been central figures in Jeremy’s journey, especially during his formative years. Their steadfast faith and commitment to raising their children with strong Christian values laid the foundation for Jeremy’s spiritual path and passion for music. Throughout the years, their devotion to their faith and family has never shaken. Proud of all their children, they continue to reflect on the challenges and blessings life has brought them, and they are deeply grateful for the ways their story has unfolded.
Tom and Teri Camp Transformed Their Lives After Connecting With Religion
In his early years, Thomas “Tom” Camp’s life was shaped by chaos and restlessness. Growing up in Indiana, he developed a dependency on substances and was a rebellious teenager. He married at just 16 and divorced within a year. At nineteen, he met Teri, and the two of them had a daughter, whom they named April. Tom, at the time, became entangled in a small-time drug operation. At 21, Tom was craving more than the empty routine of partying and self-destruction. He found himself drawn to a church around Christmas time and was invited by a woman who had been quietly praying for his transformation. There, both he and Teri encountered the message of Christ for the first time. What followed was a radical turning point and a spiritual awakening for both of them.
After getting married, Tom and Teri immersed themselves in youth ministry and dedicated much of their time to serving at church. In December 1978, their son, Jeremy Camp, was born. At the age of 23, Tom pursued theological education by enrolling at Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. During this period, the family became deeply influenced by the Calvary Chapel Movement. However, by the time Tom was 25, they returned to Indiana, where he began his pastoral work at Calvary Chapel of Lafayette. Over the next decade, Tom also collaborated with Calvary Chapel Crawfordsville, taking on a range of responsibilities from leading worship and Bible studies to mentoring youth and participating in prison ministry. During this time, the couple welcomed two sons, Jared and Joshua Camp.
Joshua’s diagnosis of Down syndrome brought unique challenges, but through their steadfast faith, patience, and love, the Camp family faced these trials with grace, growing even stronger in their commitment to one another and to their calling. At the age of 38, Tom officially joined the staff in Lafayette, Indiana, where he laid the foundation for what would become Harvest Chapel. The ministry began humbly, taking shape in the basement of Barb Cottington’s home. Though the beginnings were modest, the congregation grew slowly and steadily. As the community expanded, the church moved to a space on 1019 Wabash Avenue. A few years later, reflecting its continued growth and commitment, they were able to purchase a building on the same street. It marked a new chapter in Harvest Chapel’s journey and Tom’s lifelong mission of faith and service.
Tom and Teri Camp Are the Religious Leaders of Their Community Today
Tom Camp now serves as the Senior Pastor at Harvest Chapel, which has found its home in Lafayette Square. In his role, he leads the congregation with heartfelt sermons, spiritual guidance, and a deep commitment to community outreach. His responsibilities go beyond Sunday services as he plays a key role in organizing Bible study groups, mentoring young leaders, and fostering a welcoming space for people from all walks of life. Harvest Chapel also hosts youth camps, family retreats, worship nights, and seasonal events that bring the community together in faith and fellowship. Beyond his pastoral duties, Tom holds a deep personal love for music. A gifted musician, he often leads worship, strumming his guitar and lifting his voice in praise. His passion for music is not just a performance, but it’s a form of ministry, a way to connect with others and express his devotion.
Through every high and low, Teri Camp has remained faithfully by Tom’s side. Together, they have weathered life’s storms and celebrated its sweetest moments, including raising their beloved son Josh, who continues to be a light in their lives. As parents, they poured their hearts into nurturing a home grounded in love and faith. Now, as grandparents, their family circle has grown even wider, and nothing brings them more joy than spending time with their children and grandchildren. They take immense pride in Jeremy, watching from the sidelines as his music and message have touched lives around the world. They attended and participated in several screenings when ‘I Still Believe’ was released in 2020. Tom, now 70, finds peace in this season of life and leads a quieter rhythm filled with moments that matter.
