:: October 2, 2016: Volume 1, Issue 18 ::
 

Sorry for the long absence.  We've finally settled into (somewhat of) a routine here at camp (if there really is such a thing).  We've seen a few camps come and go--most of which have been returning churches.  It's really an amazing privilege to serve so many different groups of Christians here in California.  In a place where the gospel is so needed, we get to be a breath of fresh air for pastors who, often times, would love to have a retreat with their church but shouldn't be strapped with the weight of planning such a feat.

 

I've been on the planning side of both church-run camp and "camp"-run camp (if you know what I mean).  The beauty of having a facility staffed by Christians who are just wanting to help can't be stressed enough.  A great book by Walt Brock, founder of Ironwood, called "Why Camp" explains many of the reasons a full-time camp ministry is so useful to churches.  If you have any doubts, try it.  You'll see. 

 

Deb is settling into the routine of office, coffee shop, and hospitality.  She has her plate full with those, not to mention some piano playing at church and her new role (along with me) as Sunday School teachers for a group of 9-11 year olds. 

 

I'm transitioning out of the general camps (known as "custom camps" since the churches get to "customize" their program within a broad set of parameters) and focusing more on the Bridge.  In a few weeks, we'll be attending a soul-winning seminar known as "the Exchange."  In addition, in December, we'll get to go help a church in Elko, Nevada, for the weekend with projects and learn about church from one of the pastors there.

But for now, the month of October holds the promise of our three women's retreats. So we'll be busy for the next three weekends serving the ladies who come to those.