LOG 2009 Spring & Summer

Spring & Summer 2009

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The New Look

Spring 2009 Contents

Intended for Good

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2008 Annual Report

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Summer Echoes

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On Tiered Trails

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Ponderosa Turns Forty 10

The World’s Only 12

Space for Grace 14

The P.I.T. Crew 15

Unsung Heroes 16

Once in a Decade 17

Three Families, One Story 18

In Times Like These 19

Book of Remembrance/Honor 20

Upcoming Events 22

Yes, indeed the LOG has undergone a makeover in both design and content. We realized that the previous format was largely providing retreat and event details that are readily accessible on our website and in printed brochures. We want the LOG to add value to your Mount Hermon experience, and so have shifted the content more to stories of what God is doing in our lives. Please go to our website for details on Mount Hermon events. Recent updates and more articles can be found on our new library of blogs and these social media venues.

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Intended for Good Dear friends, I love describing God’s life-transforming work at Mount Hermon in my column. But for this issue, our Board of Directors President—Don Wood—has asked to convey the Board’s perspective and encouragement during these challenging days. I’m very grateful for Don’s partnership, and happily “share this space.” —Roger Williams

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thank Roger for allowing me to report in this LOG on the health and vitality of this ministry. Challenges and hardships abound—locally, nationally and internationally. But here at Mount Hermon, Roger and his leadership team view these days as unique opportunities, when people will again turn to the Lord seeking His strength, stability and grace.

Mount Hermon’s 2009 Theme Verse, “The Sovereign Lord is My Strength” (Hab.3:19), encourages us to forge forward in His strength, witnessing lives transformed in ever increasing numbers!

With you, Mount Hermon also feels the economic turmoil. During summer 2008, Roger’s leadership team created initiatives designed to steward our resources and strengthen the ministry for the coming crunch. In early fall the Board approved these initiatives. Some staff positions were eliminated, and each department evaluated and reset their costs to achieve optimum stewardship. Volunteers increasingly perform vital ministry functions, bringing tremendous cost-savings and infusing a godly, encouraging and contagious spirit among us all. In all of this, the staff is working carefully to maintain and even enhance the quality and service for which Mount Hermon is known and trusted.

In December the Board received the staff’s proposed 2009 budget. With the changes they’ve implemented, the Board confidently approved our strongest

budget in many years. It meets our goals of both an operating surplus, and a “set-aside fund” for unforeseen needs, while the new staffing paradigm offers flexibility for changing conditions—up or down. We recognize that this budget is very aggressive. We remain dependent on the Lord’s intervention and provision, following the One who has prospered this ministry for 103 years. In Genesis 50:20 Joseph says, “You intended harm…but God intended good…the saving of many lives.”

Our Sovereign Lord faithfully continues bringing good to Mount Hermon for the “saving of many lives.”

To you who love Mount Hermon, we thank you for your faithful support. We need it!

Join us in constant prayer—for our staff, for much-needed giving, for strong attendance, and for the many who, in these personally challenging times, will hear from Heaven as never before.

Many view these days as the worst of times. By God’s grace, the staff and Board see these as the best of times! For 2009 and beyond, God has positioned Mount Hermon to strongly proclaim the Lord Jesus Christ, teach His authoritative Word, and serve His people with joy. The Sovereign Lord IS our strength!

Don Wood, President Board of Directors Don Wood has been involved with Mount Hermon for 47 years, and has served on our Board since 1991.

He and wife Phyllis have four grown children.

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2008 Annual Report from Roger Williams

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t’s difficult to capture in an annual report the intangible values of ministries at Mount Hermon. However, as stewards of these magnificent facilities and of your generous gifts, we’ve tried to portray some metrics from 2008 that will both inform and encourage.

The economy was the big story in late 2008. Our attendance chart shows the impact, as retreats slowed. In the Advancement charts the numbers of donors and Associates are up in 2008, while total giving is down. We are encouraged that our supporters continue faithfully to invest in the ministry of Mount Hermon, even though their resources may have been affected by factors beyond their control.

The Volunteer Hours chart shows one way we’ve responded to our tighter stewardship needs.

Our Action Ministries article in this LOG issue describes how so many have rallied to invest their time alongside our staff.

Camper Days

128,480 129,855

128,751 128,050

128,480

127,152

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Volunteer Hours 12,998

16,338

14,969 16,338

2006 2007

2008

All around Mount Hermon, the staff is continually preparing for our next guests. We’re deeply aware that as we live out our faith in such service, we bring the greatest glory to God, who alone does the work of transforming lives.

There is no question that our current struggles as a nation have caused us to tighten our belts for 2009. Yet wherever we serve we’re also seeing a renewed openness to spiritual things, with a yearning for hope and stability that’s different from when times are good. We’re prepared for a frugal year in dollars, but a rich one in bringing healing and encouragement to all who come to Mount Hermon.

2,522

Gi�s

2,443 2,516 2,522

5,597

Donors

2006 2007

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2008

6,611 6,638 6,611

2006 2007

2008

Contributions

$1.8M

$3,231,242 $2,655,644 $1,807,720

2006 2007

2008

Roger Williams has poured his heart into Mount Hermon for 15 years, serving as our Executive director. He is an outstanding Bible teacher, a national leader in the camping community and much beloved by staff and guests (despite his corny jokes).

$15,233,832

Cash Uses 4.7% 2.0%

10.1%

Retail & Recreation Costs $716,407 Interest $304,858 Loan Principal Payments $1,531,391

17.7%

Facilities Improvements & Maintenance $2,702,013

22.1%

Adminstrative, Advancement & Marketing $3,360,667

43.4%

Camp & Conference Costs $6,618,496

Cash Sources $15,233,832 4.7%

5.5% 15.8%

Retail & Recreation $717,633 Proceeds from Sale of Assets $840,583 Other Sources $2,414,906

Contributions $1,807,720 21.9% 2.5%

62.1%

Camp & Conference Fees $9,452,990

51.3% 8.3% 11.3%

11.9%

Contributions $1,807,720

4.7%

Other Restricted Gi�s $396,090 Campership Endowments $45,980 General $928,243 Bequests $149,262 Camperships $203,811 Kidder Creek Capital Campaign $84,334

Figures are unaudited. A full audit will be available by request at the beginning of June. Contribution totals do not include Centennial Campaign funds. All figures include Kidder Creek.

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Summer Echoes

by Katie Flynn

One life transformed in the summer—a school transformed in the fall. God’s work in the lives of Jessica and Brandie “echoes” in ripples through the year, transforming lives with each wave.

Sunset surf session with ECHO. John Ricketts 6

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ust two days before it started, Jessica’s youth pastor Eddie called and persuaded her to swap her plans for two weeks in Mount Hermon’s Echo program. Looking back, Eddie remembers Jessica “had no idea what she was getting into.”

Jessica candidly agrees: “When I first learned what we’d be doing for two weeks, I thought, ‘What has Eddie gotten me into?’ Then I realized that my volunteering and work would glorify God and show His love.” Those two weeks were catalytic in transforming Jessica’s life. The story continues...

Eddie called us saying, “I’m happy to say there’s been a huge impact in our community through the core values Jessica gained from Echo.”

Jessica describes God’s expanding work, “I came home from Echo with a hunger to volunteer and serve, to show God’s love and help people. So we started the Social Justice Club.” Together, Jessica, fellow Echo alum Brandie and Eddie built on Echo’s core values of worship, service, community and study, to create an outreach and service venue unique in their community of Aromas.

Eddie explained: “With Christ openly at its core, the Social Justice Club followed God’s calling to serve people where they are.” Moving full steam ahead since Fall, they became the biggest club on their high school campus. In partnership with a local non-profit, their members volunteer weekly, and guest speakers discuss current issues affecting them locally and globally.

Transformation echoes in Jessica too who eight months later says “Echo was seriously the best two weeks of my life.” Eddie’s adds, “It’s been awesome seeing students fully living out their faith, not merely talking about it. Echo truly created a foundation for me as their youth pastor to build on with my students. Thanks for all you at Mount Hermon are doing! It’s making a great difference in our church community.” God’s “heartwood” work in Mount Hermon continues: lives transformed.

Moving full steam ahead since Fall, they became the biggest club on campus.

“The word has gotten around. Your lives are echoing the Master’s Word, not only in the provinces but all over the place. The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message!”

—1 Thessalonians 1:7 (The Message)

Katie Flynn joined Mount Hermon staff in 2005. She is currently keeping it real in non-traditional camps.

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On

Tiered

Tr

Photo Sequoia Trail. Peter Thomsen photographer 8

Trails

by Tom Veneman

We love to receive emails and notes recalling the “only God” stories of lives impacted here at Mount Hermon. This is from a camp director whose life of ministry budded on Sequoia Trail:

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n June of 1968, it was with a crumpled heart that I hiked the tiered trails of Mount Hermon. Perched on an ancient mossy redwood stump overlooking a quarter mile of Bean Creek one hundred feet below, I reflected on what had brought me to this place. Each spring this camp had been a safe retreat for renewal, solace and family reunion. Now reality had crashed in on me and upset my precious equilibrium. For twenty years I had convinced friends, family and myself that I was a Christian. This was based on who my parents were, where and how often I attended church, my Christian education and my behavior. Mine was a comfortable life.

Now I’d been asked to be a counselor for seven freshman boys, and I was terrified! Icy fingers of dread were snaking through my gut. While desperately reading the Word and praying about how I could teach seven young men to be followers of Christ, it crashed through me like a bolt of lightning that I had never given my heart to Jesus. I had made a formal profession of faith, gone on a mission trip, and tried to be a good young man, but had never committed my life.

I prayed something like this: “Lord, this place has soaring redwoods, eye-grabbing flowers and whispering streams. The birds’ calls careen off limestone canyons just like the day You made them. But my heart is black as obsidian and just as hard. I don’t belong in Your creation. Please take my heart and make it Yours to change and use as You see fit.”

I left that place in a levitated state. I did not lift my feet. Contact with the ground was not real. Certainly my problems remained very real, and I have slipped and strayed. But I no longer use my circumstances as the sole gauge of my spiritual health. My days with those boys, while the shortest six days of my life, have had the longest impact. They showed me that to serve is to live.

Tom Veneman is currently the Director of Pilot Lake Camp in La Porte, California. Since that day on a Mount Hermon trail he has followed the Lord’s leading to serve thousands of boys and girls in camping, even as God prepared him in those transforming hours now 40 years ago.

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80’s

70

Ponderosa Lodge

turns

Forty by Ron Demolar

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hen Ponderosa Lodge opened on June 25, 1969, I quickly realized that unknowns accompany anything new. We certainly experienced them at the Lodge. The Dining Room and Forum weren’t finished, so we ate and met in the Multipurpose Room. People and churches so anticipated our opening that year that we overfilled, and had to add a week even before Counselor Training. Yep, we ran a week of camp with NO TRAINING! We really appreciated the next week’s training, because we totally understood our desperate need.

That first summer we only hired 24 counselors—1 per cabin. With no rotation possible, the counselors went eight weeks straight! Most days, Ponderosa ran from 7:00am till nearly midnight, and I envisioned each counselor in a pine box by late August. But they held up really well!

It proved to be a great unifying factor that summer, continuing even to this day.

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We’d purchased an 8-foot ball for use on the Recreation Field. The first day of camp we positioned half the campers at each end of the field, with the ball in the middle.

Each team was to run to the ball and begin pushing it over their goal line across the field. I blew the whistle, and everyone went flying to the ball. But each team’s

My most vivid memory is of the many students lined up outside John Fischer’s Forum closet “office” to talk with him about following Christ. fastest person impacted the ball first, catapulting them back into the oncoming crowd. A counselor hit his head on the knee of an onrushing student and went into convulsive shock (remember—we only

0’s

90’s 00’s

had 24 counselors for 24 full cabins!). But he recovered.

He was back in his cabin that afternoon, awarded the Purple Heart. After that, we had teams just circle the ball and then start pushing toward their goal, removing the drama of straight on hits.

That’s progress.

Initially, to register at Ponderosa Lodge you had to bring a friend. (In those years, the Bay Area had a strong evangelism focus.)

My most vivid memory is of the many students lined up outside John Fischer’s Forum closet “office” to talk with him about following Christ. The students respected John because he was nationally on the cutting edge of changing worship styles.

They wanted to know the Jesus revealed in his songs and writings. John did the work of Ron Demolar (pictured top left in 1970) was the first director of Ponderosa. He and his wife Jacquie currently soldier on in Advancement and HR respectively.

People so anticipated our opening that year that we overfilled, and had to add a week even before Counselor Training.

an evangelist, one of the most effective I’ve ever experienced. The whole staff took on the challenge of loving and reaching out to students in a time of national upheaval, and God brought so many into the Kingdom that summer. I still look at my 1969 staff photo and thank God for what He accomplished through that special group of people.

It’s been 40 years since Ponderosa Lodge opened, and we’re celebrating!—August 21-23, 2009 at Mount Hermon. Whether a camper, counselor, staffer, donor, or you only walked through Ponderosa once, come celebrate.

Sign up on our Web Page. Join us in thanking God for 40 years of lives transformed.

Celebration begins the evening of the 21st. Let us know you’re coming at mounthermon.org.

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TheWorld’s

Only

by Don Broesamle

That’s our 110 foot long Sky Bridge suspended 100 feet above the forest floor! It’s just one element of our unique and spectacular Mount Hermon Redwood Canopy Tour, extending a third of a mile through the enchanting Bean Creek Canyon forest. Unique? Yeah! No other tour operates at heights between 100 and 150 feet, and ours is the world’s only tour cavorting through the canopy of giant Redwood trees.

Did we say spectacular?

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orest researchers have for decades made use of zip lines to study and preserve forest canopies. Working with Bonsai Design, Mount Hermon has opened the finest Canopy Tour in the USA, using the most advanced technology for these systems. Super-silent cables “hug” the trees, allowing for unimpeded growth.

Landing platforms articulate to expand with the trees. Double cables, trolleys

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The

and harnesses assure an unprecedented level of safety. And sustainable materials in all structures demonstrate care for this dramatic environment.

Tours are both exhilarating and instructive, led by professionally trained guides steeped in the knowledge of the myriad trees, animals, birds and canopy fauna and flora, all evident as you zip along the canyon. Each year hundreds of Outdoor Science School students will receive ecosystem tours, astounding them with unique perspectives of creation. Specially designed team-building and recreation opportunities abound for groups looking to strengthen relationships and trust, with memories that last a lifetime. At our summer Family Camps, the experience is infectious, with kids eagerly drawing parents into the drama with them!

Don Broesamle is Director of Partner and Church Relations, served for 17 years on the Board of Directors, and first came to Redwood Camp 54 years ago. He and Linda are gracious hosts and love to hear (and tell) a good story.

We offer four carefully crafted programs.

Our Redwood Ecology Tour is an ecoadventure unveiling the native plants and wildlife of the redwood ecosystem. A Contemplative Tour engages both mind and spirit while enveloping you in majestic glory among the world’s tallest trees.

The Team-building Tour stretches group boundaries, strengthening communication and trust while subduing fears together.

At the next level, our Team-building and Leadership Extended Day Workshops combine games, problem solving and team development with challenging high ropes course elements. These can be tailored half-day, full day or multi-day events designed to fit your needs. Give us a call to book your tour. We look forward to hanging out with you.

Whether for schools, churches, businesses or non-profit organizations, the Redwood Canopy Tour will be the pinnacle component of any group experience. And there’s no better adventure for connecting with family, friends and those you care about. Call. 831-419-0153 | RedwoodCanopyTours.com

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Space

Grace for

by Mark Bradshaw

On a Friday afternoon in January, Mount Hermon staff welcomed over 700 people from Gracepoint Fellowship of Berkeley. Gracepoint has a wide range of ministries at four major Bay Area universities. Before the retreat, Joanna Kang, one of the leaders, estimated that 25% of the students who’d be attending had yet to make a decision to follow Jesus.

Many of them began their journey while attending one of Gracepoint’s Fall campus ministries, some exploring faith and religion for the first time. Their Mount Hermon Winter Retreat was the climax of a semester of seeking. Joanna best expresses what took place.

“We’ve had over 30 salvation decisions— we’re still counting since some didn’t go forward, instead indicating on their commitment cards their desire to know Christ. There were many rededications as well. It was a really powerful time where God personally spoke to so many people.”

Gracepoint’s Mount Hermon Winter Retreat has become a special tradition for their church, and continues to grow. Even in the weeks before the retreat Joanna was asking, “So, what’s the absolute maximum number of people that we can bring?” As a Mount Hermon staff member, this truly was special to see us all pull together to make this retreat work so well.

Joanna concludes by saying, “We’re thankful Mount Hermon’s facilities could house our whole church. It let us foster community, helping people know each other, sharing stories and lives with one another. The older and younger ones could also be together, with the older ones sharing testimonies, and passing along to the younger ones wisdom for living as Christians through the ups and downs of life. This is the focus of our ministries, raising up Christian leaders, and sharing the gospel with those who don’t know Christ.”

How encouraging to see God still strongly alive and at work, lives being transformed, and as He promised, Jesus building His church.

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Mark Bradshaw comes alongside of group leaders to plan and coordinate a myriad of details that go into a weekend retreat like Gracepoint’s. His gift of hospitality shines through each and every weekend.

The P.I.T. Crew

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inda and I just rode a “Tour de California”­—but not on bikes! Along the way we saw several Mount Hermon friends, visited their churches, shared meals, and kibitzed about the resource Mount Hermon is for their own ministries. Quite a tour!

At each stop families celebrated growing together in Christ, having seen their own lives transformed while at Mount Hermon. They’re eagerly passing on their own first-hand experiences, and the timeless impact of family camp. No one tells the story better!

We simply find creative ways Mount Hermon can support them in serving the Lord.

These are our “Partners in Transformation” – our “P.I.T. Crew.” Mount Hermon is “partnering” with them, helping them touch the hearts of their friends. And they’re bringing those friends with them to Mount Hermon. What a ride!

by Don Broesamle

Open House...Insert Pizza!

For one visit, we drove along 17 Mile Drive to Randall and Andrea Swanson’s home.

They were hosting an Open House for several families, to tell many for the first time about Mount Hermon. Even on a proverbial “Dark and Stormy Night,” rain and wind pounding, seven families came— with their children! It was a beehive of excitement. Over salad, pizza and chocolate cake we all got acquainted.

We viewed the Mount Hermon DVD of Kidder Creek near Mount. Shasta, and Ponderosa Lodge, Redwood Camp and Conference Center in the Santa Cruz redwoods. Kidder’s high adventure, horse riding, rapids running and cliff jumping pumped the adrenaline, and scenes in each camp of life, laughter, kids and families were infectious. Folks “caught” the breadth of offerings and remarkable benefit of each family camp and youth camp. The kids loved it! The parents were amazed at such an opportunity so close to home. And so affordable!

Why was this Open House so outstanding?

Was it the $200 discount hosts receive, and first-time families enjoy when they register?

The kids say it’s pizza and cake! I say it’s good people, a warm home and desire to build value into our families. Now it’s your turn – let us help you host your own Open House event. Pizza optional.

The Swansons Pizza givers, relationship builders, partners in transformation.

Don Broesamle would love to have you for dinner.

Give him a call. He plays well with others.

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Unsung Heroes

by Don Broesamle

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or over 100 years, Mount Hermon has seen lives transformed by the Living Lord. Certainly countless youth have met Christ at Redwood Camp and Ponderosa Lodge, and were welcomed home forever changed, some families wondering where their teenager really went and whose kid they got back! Mount Hermon Family Camps have this same dynamic, of families grabbing priceless time together unfettered by the clutter of busy lives back home. And year after year they return, bringing other family members along in life-changing memories.

Our staff works diligently to make it all happen, serving the thousands the Lord brings each year. But we’re not alone in our efforts, not by a long shot!

There are dozens—hundreds—of Action Ministries volunteers serving tirelessly and enthusiastically along side us. A team of carpenters and handymen keep facilities operating well and looking good.

Another team operates our entire mail room, handling all incoming and outgoing packages and mail. Still others process the LOG and all our printed brochures— hundreds of thousands of pieces annually— labeling, sealing, sorting and transporting them to the Post Office. Astounding!

Don Broesamle Director of Partner & Church Relations 16

“But we are not alone in our efforts, not by a long shot.”

Faithful folks gather at the Dining Hall to set all the tables, fold napkins and prepare for the thousands of meals we serve.

Unsung heroes all!

Ministry at Mount Hermon has a family air, and we’re overwhelmed by guests’ comments regarding our “gracious and efficient staff.” Often as not they’re talking about our volunteers! That’s how good these friends are—you can’t tell us apart.

Even their name-tags are the same. These folks help dramatically to keep this ministry healthy and sound. When someone here serves you a doughnut, thank him! He’s likely a volunteer. And if you see the sweet lady lovingly pulling weeds in the planters below Lakeside, marvel at her servant heart. She’s part of the family too.

Sometimes our most valuable gift to the Lord is ourselves. With our Action Ministries Volunteers, truly “our cup runneth over!” Bring your gifts and join us—there’s always room for family!

Once in a Decade I

by Dave Talbott

n the early 1600’s, famine killed a third of Russia’s people, the Algonquians massacred 347 settlers at the first English colony in Jamestown, Virginia, William Shakespeare died, and the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. And in these same historic days, a bubonic plague was sweeping through much of Europe.

In the little village of Oberammergau in southern Germany, the inhabitants beseeched God to spare them from this plague. They vowed that if God would spare them, then every ten years they would perform a dramatic presentation depicting the Passion of Christ: the trial, suffering and death of the Lord Jesus.

God did spare them, and true to their vow the first Passion Play was held in Oberammergau in 1634. Now each decade this beautiful and timeless village, rich in woodcarving tradition, attracts an international crowd to their worldrenowned play. The presentation involves over 2,000 actors, singers, instrumentalists and technicians, all of them residents of the village. Mount Hermon has excellent tickets for the performance, and the local men have been growing their beards for months!

In addition to the fabulous Passion Play, Mount Hermon’s Church Reformation Tour of Europe has much more in store for you. Imagine the reformers coming to life, suddenly appearing in full costume— Calvin, Zwingli, Luther, and Hus, regaling us with wit and wisdom as we motor in comfort through the historical cities of Prague, Leipzig, Wittenberg, Zurich, and Geneva.

These dramatic renditions will be the highlight of your Church Reformation tour, each Reformer “made alive” by our guest dramatist Dr. Reg Grant of Dallas Seminary.

Church Reformation History & Oberammergau Tour August 10—21, 2010 This unforgettable once-in-a-decade experience is hosted by Roger & Rachel Williams, and J.R. & Laurie Loofbourrow For a brochure and more info contact Advancement 831.430.1237 mounthermon.org

Dave Talbott, Associate Director of Advancement, has been playing the organ and piano (among many other duties) at Mount Hermon for 32 years. He loves that his Advancement role allows him to minister in places like Wittenberg and Prague.

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3

military families

one story

C

by Dave Burns

aptain Joel and Laura Kornegay and their three children loved their time at Family Camp. Joel is a U. S. Air Force Captain and the Chaplain at Travis Air Force Base.

“It was our first time at Mount Hermon and what a time to reconnect—with no responsibilities! Our kids were well taken care of and loved the experience. It was a time of spiritual renewal, worshiping in spirit and truth. My 15-year-old son asked us later if we could ever go back to Mount Hermon. Thank you for what you’re doing for military families. We were blessed!”

at Victory Circle were highlights for me. It hurt not being able to share these times with Jonathon, but were so blessed that you made this happen for us. Thank you!”

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ir Force Chaplain John Muth wrote us, “Thanks to the gracious offer from Mount Hermon, I brought my family for a week of family camp. My wife and I have been Christians for 20+ years and we have two kids, a boy (11) and a girl (8). We had a blast during family camp. It was the first time ever that we were able to go to a whole week-long Christian family camp, and free to boot! Our highlights included great fellowship for my wife and me—we met so many wonderful people from the staff, musicians and guest speakers, to people at all the fabulous meals. It was good for us military folk to get to know other Christians from all around the area.

Thank you very much for the awesome opportunity to get closer to God, my family, and God’s people.

E

lizabeth Waddell with her three children, ages 12, 9 and 4, experienced their first Family Camp at Mount Hermon while her husband Jonathon was deployed overseas. He is now safely home.

“My kids just couldn’t stop talking about it—and still do! The forest, train day, the counselors, the food...they loved the whole camp. At night we would regroup as a family and share about our experiences. We all learned so much, and the time together allowed us to grow in tune with one another even while my husband was gone. The teaching and worship times and sharing

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My kids totally loved the ‘Kids Camp’ time and the many daily activities, like going on creek hikes, the water games, and so much more. Together we enjoyed the family activities like the pool, archery and rock climbing. We really appreciated the Pancake Ridge event, and of course going to the Fountain! Even though Mount Hermon is only a portion of the mountain, we had the whole ‘mountain top experience.’ Thank you very much for the awesome opportunity to get closer to God, my family, and God’s people. My family and I are now stationed in Florida.”

If you would like to help a military family come to camp, or know a family who would benefit from a Military Camperships, contact Dave Burns, Director of Adult Ministries—dave.burns@mounthermon.org.

Dave’s vision and passion for our men and women in uniform have made this program a reality.

In Times Like These

by J.R. Loofbourrow

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or parents, few things are more meaningful than conversations our children initiate about Jesus. They are moments that can’t be forced, and they open doors to eternity. They are often captured when we escape our busy day-today lives and retreat to settings where the Lord best prepares hearts and minds.

At Mount Hermon these treasured times frequently occur as families gather in their rooms or cabins. And we’re excited to have another cabin now available—Live Oak— formerly the Black Cabin.

Black Cabin’s replacement was approved in our 2001 Master Plan. Its deteriorated condition for years prevented its use as a guest cabin, but its proximity to the conference center encouraged our hopes that funds could soon be allocated to rebuild. Year by year those hopes faded as other needs drew resources elsewhere.

That all changed in the summer of 2007!

During our final week of summer Family Camp, a Bay Area couple expressed their desire to help, sharing how the Lord had placed Black Cabin on their hearts.

“If we provide construction funds, does Mount Hermon have building plans?

Can a permit be issued in a reasonable timeframe? Are you interested in rebuilding NOW?” Yes, YES and YES! The best timing is always the Lord’s timing.

Step by step He provided the plans, approvals and resources to complete Live Oak cabin. Work began in April, 2008, and was completed on time and on budget. One couple had heard from Heaven, and their faithful response will make a difference for families now and for years to come.

Might the Lord be leading you to explore such a partnership? All around Mount Hermon God is at work, restoring hearts, healing relationships and transforming lives—whether on trails, by streams, with counselors…or in rooms and cabins. People like you make this possible.

We’re grateful for those supporting this Kingdom Journey. For more information on cabin restoration partnerships, please contact J.R. Loofbourrow at jr.loofbourrow@mounthermon.org or phone 831.430.1237.

J.R. Loofbourrow is Director of Advancement, and a 10-year veteran of Mount Hermon. His enthusiasm for life, love for our donors, and truly grateful heart are evidence that he is right where he is meant to be.

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MARGARET AMES Eileen Engelman LOUISA LEFEBRE ANDERSON Ron & Jacquie Demolar Fred & Marilyn Miller WES BATEMAN Jim & Margot Patrick LEROY & KATHERINE BIRCH Esther Birch Dickson JOAN BREWER Erik & LaVonna Eichner LAURA BUSSA Gil & Marge Gunn SALLIE MAXCY CAMPBELL Craig & Kirstin Campbell CHRIS CHRISTIANSEN Loraine Christiansen

FLORA HARROWER Don & Linda Broesamle Carl & Carolyn Crouse Dave & Carla Talbott CARROLL “KELLY” HIGH Ron & Jacquie Demolar Ed & Marilyn Hayes Dave & Carla Talbott DOROTHY HILL Eleanor Anderson Richard & Dorothy Arndt Linda Berry Dave & Evelyn Brooks Carl & Carolyn Crouse Jim & Margot Patrick LOU HILL Karlton & Deanne Bakke Trish Chu Glenn & Elizabeth Harrison

ERIKKA KVAMME Ken & Patricia Dopyera KEN & WILLIAM LANGE Jeanine Lange Peek STAN LANPHEAR Lois Flory Mr. & Mrs. B.C. Welch HELEN M. LEE Lily Chin Mr. & Mrs. Yim Gee Mr. & Mrs. Bob Fong Charles & Anna Lee EUNICE LINTHICUM John & Lorna Aylard Henrietta Broom Andy & Beth Dungey & Family Frances R. Fitz-Stephens Jack Foust & Family Kent & Lisa Jarvis & Family Joseph & Mary Knowles Thomas Linthicum

Book of Remem ZELMA CREE Bill & Sharon Cree Ron & Jacquie Demolar

GARDNER HOLMES Bonnie Dalbeck Alexander & Jolynn Khoury Sona Markarian Henry & Nancy Offer Vern & Laura Slinker

JOHN CURRAN Virginia Henderson

SCOTT HUDDLESON Doris Darrow

JAY FERRIA Frank & Velma Raab

OLGA HUGHES-IBONIE Marion Windsor

STANLEY GAMMELGARD George & Marilyn Porter

SHARON IVASKA Jim & Margot Patrick

ANN M. GAZARIAN Douglas & Susan Brower Robert & Kimberle Cacioppo Cordova Meadows School Staff Delano & Ginger Cotton Paul, Debbie & Breanne Gonzales Jerry & Linda Marple Bob & Lois Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. D. S. Moore Ray & Edith Nicolosi Tamara Ranta Marcy Williams & Family MENTOR R. GAZARIAN Marcy Williams & Family

MARY JACOBS Carl & Marlene Adams Phyllis Boyd Mr. & Mrs. J. F. Caratti Evelyn Fox Richard & Kathryn Fulfer Grimbleby Coleman Certified Public Accts., Inc. Mr. & Mrs. E. S. Hinkley, Sr. Dorothy Johnson John & Maribeth Klobuchar Harriet Rivers George Shimel Robert Shipley South Church Derk & Jackie Van Konynenburg

CAROL GRIFFIN Leon Accorne

BETTY JUNG Jerry & Arlene Hitchman

EINA MILLER Bruce & Janet Arnold

BOB GRUNIGEN Bill & Sally Russ

ROBERT KENNEDY Cynthia Peterson

ROBERT MORGAN Roger & Joyce Criswell Esther Johnson Philip & Connie Morgan

DOROTHY CLOHAN Ellen Pehrson

20

JANE KROEHL Bruce & Janet Arnold

Daniel & Mira Lukoskie Noreen & Lee Mason Marilyn Twyman MICHAEL LUCKEY Seth Andrews John & Shelia Charboneau Raymond & Mary Coustier Lorraine Elliott John & Mary Ann Froehlich Blanche & Mary Anna Huebner Walt & Lynette Maynes Daniel McMenamin Nelda Olson Ron & Janae Phillips Don & Carol Rosene Duane & Beverly Shinn John & Maedell Stafford Selma Wrigglesworth KATHRYN LUNSFORD Leon Accorne AMY MALSBARY Robert & Betty Erikson LORRAINE MARKUS Leora Tatman WAYNE MASSINGILL Mr. & Mrs. Bob Snyder

WOODROW “WOODIE” MOWRER David S. & Shonda Mowrer Sheridan E. Mowrer Drs. Sherwyn W. & Ruth Ann Mowrer Arnold & Virginia True ERMA MUNGER Burt & Marie Busk MAYNARD MUNGER Burt & Marie Busk KRISTY ANN NELSON Bill & Sally Russ RUTH PASCOE Don & Linda Broesamle ELEANOR PEHRSON Nelda Olson MARGARET PETRICEK Gordon & Barbara Bostrom Roy & Judy Carpenter

BETTY STEPHAN Harry & Shirley Barton Jerry & June Clodius Cooley Godward Kronish LLP, Attorneys At Law Jim & Mary Crawford Glenn & Deborah Dalton Tom Fujishin Anita Goble Kelli Greene Dean & Debbie Halverson Jerry & Arlene Hitchman Tom & Virginia Ireland Jim & Marlene Jessup Bill & Georgia Johnston Ruth Nelson Jo Anne Larson Pete & Debbie Rice Loretta Riddle Kenneth & Jeanine Skovmand Paul Stephan Robert & Marian Todd Lester & Virginia Wait Ray & Christy Wait

brance Elizabeth Leckie Lonette Rathbun Jim & Diane Schrecengost Hugh & Betty Shoults AGNES PHILLIPOSIAN Ron & Kim Gagosian Yetta Gagosian GREG POPPEN Jay & Bea Anderson Daryl & Karen Poppen BRIAN PUGH Nelda Olson JOE & LIZ SAUBERT John & Lori Saubert WILLIAM SCHEFFER Ron & Jacquie Demolar Bernard Goldner John & Helen Fairchild Norman & Mariette Robinson DR. HAROLD SCHELL Leon Accorne MARY ANNE SEABERG Dave & Evelyn Brooks Richard & Elsie Van Horn EDNA SPENCER Robert & Barbara Rosenthal CORRINE STAPLES Joy & Jim Dawson

Rod Wait Glen & Pamela Wiley HARRY SWEET Nancy Sweet LEROY TAKESHIMA John & Wendy Toda WILLIAM & VIRGINIA TALBOTT Dave & Carla Talbott JIM THOMAS Lauren & Jan Granlund Glen & JoAnn Ifland Mark & Lois Jennings Loren & Dale Rodoni, Sideworks Trucking MARIAN WAGENER Ruth Schnicke RONALD WARDLE Marv & Petey Inman MILDRED WARN Jim & Margot Patrick JANET WERNER Nelda Olson ROBERT WINTER Robert & Hazel Winter CLARK WRIGHT Bernie & Miriam Denton Kirk & Terri Gilbert David & Becky Wright

BOOK OF

HONOR MARTHA & BLAIN ALLEN Stephen & Paula Reynolds

ED & LOUISE ASHBRENNER (71ST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY) Jim & Margot Patrick RON DEMOLAR Russ & Ginger Arnold JOHN & MELINDA HO (MARRIAGE) Nelda Olson WALTER JOHNSON (75TH BIRTHDAY) John & Susan Koeker BETH & LOYD LANDES Frank & Peggy Winkler AARON & MICHELLE LEE (MARRIAGE) Nelda Olson WILFORD & BEVERLY LOW (50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSAY) Wilford & Beverly Low ELDON & RUTH LUNDBERG (CHRISTMAS HONORARIUM) Kevin & Jennifer Parrish LAMAR & LOU PARRISH (CHRISTMAS HONORARIUM) Kevin & Jennifer Parrish GARY PATRICK (60TH BIRTHDAY) Jim & Margot Patrick JAMES PATRICK (89TH BIRTHDAY) Jim & Margot Patrick SAMUEL & MARY PITTS (CHRISTMAS HONORARIUM) Keith & Terry Lacombe ROGER & MELISSA REYNOLDS Stephen & Paul Reynolds MATT & EMILY (LARSEN) SIDLEY (MARRIAGE) Beulah Olson TOM & DEB STEIPP (IN HONOR OF their GRACIOUS HOSPITALITY) Doug and Elaine Borland PAUL & BETTY STEPHAN (60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY) Armand & Debbie Rice GARRETT & COBA TERPSTRA (70TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY) Nick & Joni Terpstra

To make Book of Remembrance/Honor gifts, include person’s name, “in memory” or “in honor,” name and address to notify of your gift, and mail with check (payable to Mount Hermon Assoc.) to: Book of Remembrance, Box 413, Mount Hermon 95041. Due to print deadlines, your recent gift may appear in our next issue.

21

Upcoming Events Events held at Conference Center unless otherwise noted.

May 2009 1–3 8–9 9,10 10 15–17 22–25 28

Spring Women’s | Ponderosa Lodge Associate in Ministry Weekend Redwood Camp Open House | Redwood Camp Mother’s Day Worship & Buffet Moms & Daughters | Redwood Camp Men’s White Water Rafting | Kidder Creek Hymn Sing & Luncheon

13 14–20 19–21 19–21 20 21–26 21–27 27 28–7/4

Brush Arbor Concert Family Camp Week 1 Men’s Fly Fishing | Kidder Creek Mother Daughter Ranch Camp | Kidder Creek The King’s Brass Concert Family Camp Week 2 | Lake Tahoe J.E.M.S. Family Camp Christian Edition Concert Family Camp Week 3

June

July

4 5–11 11 12–18 18 19–25 25 26–8/1

Burchfield Brothers Concert Family Camp Week 4 Marie Barlow Martin Concert Family Camp Week 5 Steve Green Concert Family Camp Week 6 Marty Goetz Concert Dallas Theological Seminary Family Camp Week 7

1 2–8 8 9–15 21–23 20–23 28–30 31–9/3

Amick Byram Concert Family Camp Week 8 Santa Cruz–Monterey Celebration Choir Concert Family Camp Week 9 40th Anniversary Celebration | Ponderosa Lodge Couples Horse Camping Retreat | Kidder Creek Hispanic Family Camp RTA–Christian Songwriter’s

August

September 4–7 11–13 18–20 24–27

Labor Day Family Camp Fall Women’s | Ponderosa Lodge Senior High Leadership | Ponderosa Lodge Men’s High Country Deer Hunting/Fly Fishing | Kidder Creek

2–4 5–7 8 9–11 23–25 30–1

Dads & Sons | Redwood Camp RTA : Leadership in the Redwoods TEAMinar Hymn Sing & Luncheon Fall Men’s I | Ponderosa Lodge Fall Men’s II | Ponderosa Lodge Fall Frenzy I (Junior High) | Ponderosa Lodge

6–8 6–8 13–15 16–20 26–29

Women’s Spiritual Retreat I Fall Frenzy II (Junior High) | Ponderosa Lodge Women’s Spiritual Retreat II Outdoor Science School Homeschool Week Thanksgiving Family Camp

3 4–6 10–13 11–13 17–20

Hymn Sing/Luncheon Winter Weekend I (High School) | Ponderosa Lodge Christmas Concerts/Buffets & Craft Boutique Winter Weekend II (High School) | Ponderosa Lodge Christmas Concerts/Buffets & Craft Boutique

October

November

December

mounthermon.org

Visit for more information on summer youth camps & upcoming events.

Retreat in the Redwoods Mount Hermon cabins available for non-summer get-aways.

Our rental cabins are perfect for small groups, families or ministry leadership groups, spiritual rest, relaxation, time together, off-site planning or a prayer retreat.

Small retreat, Big Blessing

• Available Mondays–Thursdays during Fall, Winter and Spring seasons • Full kitchens and baths, with all linens and towels • Prepare meals in the comfort of your own cabin • Enjoy our many hiking trails, the large recreation meadow, the Fitness Center, BookShop, Redwood Canopy Tour and the dining and recreation areas of the Monterey Bay area • Care for body, soul and spirit * Limited weekend availability upon request

Reserve your own cabin cabin.rentals@mounthermon.org 1-888-MH-CAMPS

Simplify Your Giving & our processing Did you know that you can make regular contributions to Mount Hermon through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)?

Are you prepared for the unexpected?

Planning ahead with a will or trust can:

• Care for your loved ones after you are gone • Distribute your assets as you wish • Provide for ministries like Mount Hermon • Save taxes For more information on how you can partner with Mount Hermon in planning for the future or to request a free copy of Planning for the Future: A Guide to Wills & Trusts please contact J.R. Loofbourrow at 831.430.1237 or jr.loofbourrow@mounthermon.org.

You choose whether to debit your checking account or charge your credit card for monthly gifts of any amount. You can even designate your gifts to more than one fund!

Easy, Secure & Convenient Contact Debbie Franck at debbie.franck@mounthermon.org 831-430-1237 to learn more.

888.MH.CAMPS

po box 413 mount hermon, ca 95041

Copyright Š 2009 Mount Hermon Christian Camps & Conference Center PO Box 413 Mount Hermon, California 95041 (831)335-4466 Fax (831)335-9218 mounthermon.org About Mount Hermon is a non-profit, interdenominational and evangelical center dedicated to serving Jesus Christ through year-round camps and conferences. Roger E. Williams, Executive Director.

The LOG is a biannual publication, printed on 80lb Grays Harbor 100% recycled FSC certified paper with a smooth finish by Casey Printing in King City, CA. It is graciously processed for mailing by our many Action Ministries volunteers who support Mount Hermon through their efforts.

A digital version of The LOG is available at mounthermon.org.

Cover S’mores a la Family Camp. John Ricketts Inside Cover PHoto

High adventure backpacking at Kidder Creek takes kids deep into the Marble Mountain Wilderness. John Ricketts Upcoming events Camping at Kidder Creek, Fun on the Meadow, & Redwood Camp Cabin. John Ricketts Back Open pipe, Ponderosa skatepark at night. John Ricketts

LOG Staff Executive Editor Lisa Olson Managing Editor Don Broesamle Creative Director Peter Thomsen Graphic Designer Josh Bootz Copy Editors Debbie Franck Cindy Ritchie Photographers Josh Bootz Dan Dawson John Ricketts Peter Thomsen