Reduced Fall Capacities Can’t Diminish Blessing
For guests returning to Camp this fall, the feeling of anything reminiscent of “normal” explained what one Women’s Restore guest described as “the delight of being back at Camp.” Cedar Lake. Chapel. Laser tag. Beaver Point. Wiffleball. Chef Jim’s famous oatmeal. Ah, it was good to be “home!”
The staff felt the joyous relief, too, despite the fact that sessions were running at only 50-70% capacity. Several rental groups canceled out, as well, as churches struggled with pandemic concerns and State mandates. But after a summer without youth camps, it sure was a thrill to hear 65 teens running around Camp at the annual Fall Fire. And who couldn’t enjoy the “funnest fun!” experienced at parent-child campfire chapels, fireworks and all! Perhaps the grandest blessing of all might have been dusting off the hymnals at the “Young at Heart” retreat. Now it’s time for Camp’s amazing quilters to celebrate 30 years of Quilt & Scrap!
COVID Changes Bring New Memories
It’s easy to gripe about mask mandates, extra cleaning protocols, and ever-adapting dining procedures. However, some of the forced changes have made for fresh, meaningful experiences. The move to outside chapels for fall events has been especially impactful. Whether it’s the big campfire or special lighting, guests and staff alike have found the atmosphere both inspiring and refreshing. Another big change has required all recreation checkout to run through the Activity Center. The move has brought new connections with guests and opened new activities for families, such as archery and BB guns. Turning the Main Hall into a second Dining Hall has also turned into a blessing for families and groups, who have enjoyed the extra space and quieter setting. “Count your many blessings, name them one by one…And it will surprise what the Lord has done!”
Praise & Pray!
- PRAISE! Brotherhood Mutual settlement: $141,000 from a Loss of Revenue policy.
- PRAISE! CRITTERS ARRIVED: 37 animal & bird mounts donated. Beautiful!
- PRAISE! QUILT & SCRAPBOOK: Celebrating 30 years of amazing ministry!
- PRAISE! WOMEN’S RESTORE BLESSING: $3000 for Camp, $1700 for Missions.
- PRAISE! RECENT BLESSINGS: “new” pickup, gifts of $3K, $3K, and $5K! Wow!
- PRAY! Coronavirus: Wisdom, protection of guests and staff, grace to serve.
- PRAY! Safety of guests, staff, and community: Camp continues to do its part.
- PRAY! Future Planning: Winter season questions; financial bridge to next summer.
Inbox Blessings
Notes from Mother-Daughter:
“We always feel a renewed connection to God and bring it home with us…This is truly a place where heaven is on earth.”
“Every year my kids look forward to coming to Camp. It’s a chance for us to connect…The chapels spark curiosity about God and allows us to see His glory in nature.”
“This place is amazing – a home away from home, a place for my heart to rest and enjoy God’s blessings!!”
“All my grandchildren asked Jesus to be their savior at Camp.”
Read more in the full Camp Lebanon News (October 2020) by Bobber Bill!
