August/September 2020 Newsletter

Early in the seventeenth century, John Donne wrote a series of meditations, as he recovered from what was probably typhus, which had infected so much of London.

“No man in an island, entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. . .   Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and never send to know

Whom the bell tolls (announcing a death).  It tolls for thee.”

As reality of the global pandemic became greater, over six months ago, each person in places of responsibility with this ministry was forced to grapple with some acutely significant questions.  Could we offer summer camps safely? And legally?  What would be the future of this ministry if we were forced to close for the summer?  Reports were already circulating of sister camps which were closing for the season, some never to re-open.  What if we proceeded and there was an outbreak?  After all, some parts of camp life require an unavoidable proximity.  What if we proceeded with summer plans, and an outbreak occurred which affected persons far beyond this campus?  As counsel came down from the Center for Disease Control, Governor Reynolds’s office, and our own camp association, we began to piece together a plan for safe operation, allowing the ministry to move forward while taking careful precautions to insure maximum safety for every camper, staff member, and volunteer.  April and May were critical months because, along with the usual last minute preparations for camp, there was the added concern for safety as well as the ongoing need to communicate with parents, churches, and other agencies.  Above all else, we lifted our concerns to the One who sees the entire picture, and whose purpose extends far beyond the world we see.

We are so thankful at the end of a busy summer to look back and see God’s faithfulness.  Protection from the virus; abundant opportunities to touch young lives with the hope of the gospel; financial provision in a season of financial stress; excellent staff from four different states; and so much more made this a season of great blessing.  We are also thankful to each of you who pray and give, and volunteer.  The threats which so affected all of us in this unusual season have not been greater than the grace of our God!

FALL VOLUNTEER RETREAT, OCTOBER 2-3

Just a little over a month away now the Fall Volunteer Retreat provides a great opportunity for friends and families to gather for one or two days of service and fellowship.  Projects are adaptable for those who come for a few hours, or for both days.  Meals are provided (donations are welcomed, but not expected) and lodging is available (Conestoga wagon sleepers, RV and tent spots) on a first come, first serve basis.

This year we will focus on tree and brush removal/trimming in the Battle Creek area, a favorite activity space for youth programs.  Bring chain saws, bow saws, gloves and rakes.  There will also be painting, cleaning, and maintenance projects as we make the facilities ready for the winter season.

A movie or hayrack ride will be offered on Friday night if there is interest.  Please call the camp office if you or your family plans to attend, so we can better plan meals and projects. (Cynthia at 641-649-2491 or Pastor Pat at 641-865-0295)  ‘Looking forward to seeing you!

WESTLAKE FAMILY BIBLE FELLOWSHIP — 2ND and 4th SUNDAYS at 5:30

This fall we will again be offering a family Bible fellowship two times each month on Sunday evenings.  The Activity Center will be open at 5:00 for those who wish to come a little early and enjoy activities such as volleyball, basketball, or nine square with their families.  Bring some food to share, but come whether it is convenient to bring food or not.  A fellowship time will begin at 5:30 and Bible study at 6:30.  We look forward to seeing you! Plans call for the Westlake Family Bible Fellowship to meet on the second and the fourth Sunday evenings of the month at 5:30 PM.

Dates:

September 13, 27 (Hot Dogs provided on the 13th!)

October 11, 25

November 8, 22

December 13, 27 (Christmas Party on the 19th)

SURF CLUB FOR TEENS 2nd and 4th SATURDAYS at 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy camp throughout the year!  SURF Club is for teens and will be held in this fall on the second and fourth Saturday evenings of the month (September 2020 – April 2021.  SURF (Students United in Real Faith) Club gives opportunity for teens to enjoy some favorite camp activities, friendship with God and others.

Dates and Time: September 12th & 26th, October 10th & 24th – 6:00 – 9:00; November 14th & 28th,

December12th – 6:00 – 8:00; Christmas Party – December 19th.

Cost – $5.00 per night or $25 for the season

Short of money? Come anyway.  We want YOU here much more than your money!

Food – A free snack.  Other snacks available in the Filling Station through October.

FALL CAMP – October 9-11

Lots of camp activities packed into two days.  Exciting challenges, friendships and spiritual growth opportunities.  Begins at 6:00 PM on Friday and ends at 4:00 PM on Sunday.  In this politically charged season, we will take some time to consider what it means to be a good and responsible

 Citizen.  Grades 7-12  Cost $120.00.  Register on-line at campappanoose.org.

FALL ROUNDUP – Please mark your calendars now… Saturday, November 7, 4:00 p.m. in the Camp Appanoose Pavilion. This is an opportunity to help underwrite awesome camper experiences!  ‘More information to come.

THANK YOU to all who have volunteered through the camping weeks in programming, the kitchen, the grounds and facilities, and so much more.  Your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

APPANOOSE MINISTRIES is dependent upon the faithful and generous supporters.  Please consider a generous gift today.  To set up monthly, automatic giving, contact the camp office at 641.649.2491, cabar@campappanoose.org. 

WISH LIST

• Burn Cage $700
• $2000.00 Pond Aerator
• Roadworthy pick-up to be used on grounds
• Two Hay feed rings (horse style)
• Stump grinder
• Gifts may be sent by US mail or by PayPal at campappanoose.org **

**All gifts are tax deductible. **You may be able to give through your employer. Some employers will match your gift. Check with your employer for details 

Unique Camps, Educational Travel, Youth Specialists

www.CampAppanoose.org