LOG 2009 Fall & 2010 Winter

Fall 2009–Winter 2010 1

Fall 2009 Contents Sharing Strategy

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Timeless Investment

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From the Crow’s Nest

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Celebrating Forty Years

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Jammin’ For the Glory of God 17

Lovin’ Kids to Jesus at Kidder Creek

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The Gwinn Legacy Lives On

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Tears & Wonder

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Scott Halverson

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Thin Places

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Book of Remembrance/Honor 20

Quiet Stewardship

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Upcoming Events

Global Impact

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The

“Jack Pearson Open House Tour” is filling fast!

Host a gathering in your home or church and receive $200 off your 2010 Family Camp registration!

Call us at 831-430-1230 and book your private concert for Mid-March 2010. Church and school concerts available, too. (jackpearson.org) 2

Sharing Strategy

by Roger Williams

In our home during the third week of Family Camp, the reception for our Mount Hermon Associates was just ending. My wife was chatting with a lovely and gracious woman I hadn’t previously met. As the guests left, this young mom introduced herself, and thanked us for how wonderful summer Family Camps were for her family.

She explained how her children would much rather come to Mount Hermon than even to Disneyland. In fact, this summer they had turned down a trip to Hawaii!

Mount Hermon is their favorite place, and it’s now a real place of ministry in each of their lives.

Pausing, she then told me her father was an Orthodox Jewish rabbi. Both of her parents were survivors of the Holocaust. And she recounted her introduction to the Person of Jesus Christ, how intrigued she was by the story of His life. Later—upon learning she did NOT need to give up her Jewish heritage––she gladly embraced Jesus as her Savior! She’s now a completed Jew. Partly why she enjoys Mount Hermon so greatly is our focus on Jesus.

She told me how her children had realized that Mount Hermon was too good to keep to themselves and needed to be shared!

The children asked if they could invite their neighborhood friends to Family Camp.

After a family discussion, it was decided

that each child could choose one friend to bring along each summer, with each friend coming as their guest! This was now their second summer of this “sharing strategy.”

She paused again and Pausing, told me how just that morning in Day Camp she then her son’s 11-year-old told me her friend had come to know Jesus as his father was Savior. Her son was overjoyed! She felt we an Orthodox “might be encouraged Jewish rabbi. to know this” (major understatement!!).

She said they’re all enjoying this partnership—the family sharing Mount Hermon and Mount Hermon sharing Jesus!

In a year that’s presented more challenges than in any year of my tenure at Mount Hermon, the good news is this: God is at work! God is in control! And God is transforming lives! In this context we remember Joseph’s words in Genesis 50:20, “You intended harm, but God intended good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

God intends good— saving lives—through sharing Jesus and teaching God’s Word.

We stand in wonder as He transforms lives all over these grounds.

Roger Williams Mount Hermon's Executive Director since 1993, Roger and his wife, Rachel, love hosting guests at their home on the hill.

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From the Crow’s Nest

by Lisa Olson

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Summer 2009 in pictures.

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s the Director of Program Ministries I have a unique vantage point. Sometimes I like to think of my spot as the crow’s nest on a tall ship. The sailor posted there can see, at a glance, the carefully orchestrated activities of many teams of shipmates. The teams may not be able to see each other, or even be aware of the other activities taking place at any given moment, but together their efforts result in a thing of beauty.

Summers are like that for me at Mount Hermon. If I turn my gaze in one direction I see the carefully choreographed activity at Redwood Camp, where an amazing staff serves up the extra love and attention required by primary campers while stretching and challenging their older brothers and sisters with programs tailored just for them. If I turn 180° I see students at Ponderosa tackling the intricacies of inductive Bible study,digging into God’s Word with their counselors. Meanwhile program staff prepare for their famous pool games, zany group events and intense times of worship.

A downward glance yields the hub of activity at the Conference Center.

I hear the profound teaching of outstanding men and women of God, and am reassured that even adults can be transformed again and again as they encounter Christ in fresh ways. The sound of lawn chants from Day Camp and music from the band in the youth programs proclaim that ministry is happening there, too. I can pick out adventurers zipping through the redwood canopy, mountain bikers peddling to the beach, dads with arms wrapped around young archers, moms carefully crafting with their daughters, and friends, spouses, pastors and strangers having precious, meaningful conversations on benches and trails throughout the camp.

I need my binoculars to see as far as Kidder Creek but the effort is worth it. Horses create more than atmosphere; they provide some of the best teachable moments for spiritual analogies available!

The beautiful wilderness setting is unmatched in my experience. My daughter was barely off the bus before the stories of jumping off cliffs and running rapids started!

The programs there run the gambit, allowing young kids their first overnight campout and mature teens the chance to spend much of their day serving others in the community.

A small and tightly-knit staff is crosstrained to weave the spiritual themes throughout the day whether they are assigned at the river, the ranch, or the ropes course.

The most unexpected sight from my perch comes when I pull out the telescope. My job affords me the privilege of the farthest view on the horizon. In any given day I am in dialogue with others about next summer, 2011 and even what our ministries will look like in a decade, or as we seek to serve future generations with the same intentionality as we have served their parents and grandparents.

Most days in the summer it’s hard for me to go home at night. I want to be at the coffee house, have that conversation with the single mom at camp solo for the first time, hand out the s’more sticks, and hear every message. I run from camp to camp, marveling at the passion and proficiency of the caring young leaders pouring themselves into our guests. I love to study spreadsheets figuring out how to fill every bed available next year and the next.

The view from my spot is a sight to behold and I am grateful for the privilege to enjoy it!

Lisa Olson has been in the Crow’s Nest as Mount Hermon’s Director of Program Ministries since 2007. This summer she kept her four children, ages 15 to 20, in sight as they served in conference dining, crafts, recreation and on the Redwood Canopy Tour.

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Lovin’ Kids to Jesus at Kidder Creek

by Lisa Olson with Gayle Ely

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unior High is a difficult time for many teens, and Kidder Creek’s Adventure programs offer a chance to meet the Jesus they may have heard about in other contexts in a fresh way. This summer a mother shared a moment with her son when he returned from a week at camp.

to see tears running down his face. He assured her they were happy tears, saying, “Mom, I just feel so full of God right now.”

She passed his room as she was beginning to prepare dinner, and saw him sitting on his bed looking through the Bible. “Mom”, he said, “do you remember when you used to sit with me and read the14 Bible to me? We should start reading the Bible together again.” She sat down with him right then, they read the Scriptures together for a while, and then she got up to finish making dinner.

In 2006 the community that loves Kidder Creek embarked upon a capital3campaign to position the ministry for future growth.

The name “Lov’n Kids” campaign captures their heart for the children and teens that God brings to Kidder Creek. An ambitious goal was set to raise $800,000 over a four2 year period with gifts to be completed by year end 2010. Mount Hermon encouraged 4 by agreeing to match, dollar for the group dollar, every gift given locally with a gift from the central California constituency.

This was a sacred moment that occurred at home because a camper started a new leg in his spiritual journey at camp.

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When she came back to call him to the table, she was surprised and a little alarmed

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The campaign sought to address property issues such as creating a buffer to protect the ministry from development near Kidder 12 Creek’s borders, to improve programming elements with equipment and immediate facility upgrades, and to establish secure financial operations, positioning the ministry for long-term viability and growth.

It is an amazing privilege to report that the local constituency surpassed their goal (in gifts and pledges received) this spring, a full year ahead of projections! At the

Photos Kidder Creek.

John Ricketts Photographer 6

Mas across the country were down by that request of the Lov’n Kids committee, the percentage or more! We touched the lives Board agreed to continue to match gifts of nearly 1,400 campers, each one having up to a challenge goal of $1 million dollars. the same opportunity to rekindle their At the date of this writing, (September, 2009), $966,023 has been given or pledged relationship with Jesus Christ, just like 1 the boy who rediscovered his Bible at a to this campaign! Only $209,095 of that vulnerable time in his life. total represents outstanding pledges to be paid through 2010. In the months to come we trust others will capture the vision and passion of those who have laid this foundation. With their help the challenge goal of $1 million will be met and exceeded13 well ahead of schedule.

This victory couldn’t come at a more exciting time. The number of campers at Kidder 4 Creek grew this summer by 23% in a summer when many Christian camps

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Over the next year we will be showing you the fruit of two years of work in establishing a strategic ministry plan and a site plan to support it. There are still many pieces that need to fall into place 18to see our visions realized. God’s blessing is evident as he transforms the lives of campers, staff, and donors through this process. What we have seen gives us faith to anticipate with great joy and confidence what we have yet to see.

Gayle Ely is the voice on the other end of the phone at Kidder Creek. She capably juggles all the functions of a small office with a tender heart for the campers she serves.

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Tears & Wonder

by Camille Franicevich

Photo Campers gather on the Meadow.

John Ricketts Photographer 8

“You can expect God to move.”

Week One at Redwood Camp is always event-filled for campers and staff. This year Crash (camp name), a returning counselor, was met with a challenging cabin. Some of the boys had come together as friends, but there was tension between them as one boy dominated the group. Crash learned early in the week that Nate* acted out aggressively when he felt challenged or threatened. Nate shared a bit about his home life and Crash knew that it wasn’t a safe haven.

After an adrenaline-filled skit night a scuffle broke out in the cabin. Nate punched his friend Carl* in the face and a number of their friends were casualties as they tried to protect and defend. Nate fled the cabin with Crash soon to follow at his heels.

Unsure at first what to do, Crash held him in a secure embrace, reassuring him of Christ’s love, and praying for peace and courage to overwhelm Nate. After a time, he was able to re-enter the group, but apologies were not forthcoming and it was a restless night in the cabin.

Crash talked to “Papa K” (a.k.a. Ron Taylor) the next morning and they agreed that Nate would have to demonstrate remorse and make amends with his cabin mates in order for sincere resolution to come. They gathered the group at the mini-victory circle and were able to witness the Spirit of God lead Nate to ask for forgiveness, followed by his friends extending grace.

Later that night Carl came to Crash with an amazing footnote to the day. He said, “Crash, I had a dream during the school year about camp. In my dream, you, Papa K, Nate and I were meeting at mini-VC and Nate… he apologized for things he’s done to me! I never thought that would come true but this morning it did and I’ve never been this happy before in my life. Crash, I feel like Nate and I can truly be friends for the first time!” Tears and wonder marked this recounting of God’s faithfulness in giving a dream to a little boy and then using our staff to bring it to pass!

These kids came to camp to experience fun and adventure and went home with healing for troubled relationships and the reassurance of God’s concern for even the smallest details of their lives.

Crash summed it up, “You can expect God to move ... even through a fistfight and an ordinary camp counselor in an extraordinary place.” *Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the campers.

Ron Taylor

(Papa Kahuna to generations of campers), has been Redwood Camp’s Director since 1995. He and Cheryl have raised their family at camp and marvel at how the Lord works through this ministry. This was his last season at Mount Hermon as he is moving on to a ministry of one-toone discipleship, most likely in a church setting. Please keep him in your prayers, remembering him with thanksgiving for his years of faithful service.

Camille Franicevich is a long-time friend of Mount Hermon whose volunteer service includes conducting interviews, writing and editing copy for our publications as needed. Thanks, Camille!

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Thin Places

by Suzy Clark

Most of the time when students come to Outdoor Science, we do not know what they’re bringing with them. You can imagine the types of experiences, family structures,and trying circumstances kids have seen in their 10 or 11 years of life, but what else might they bring? Teachers and parents often do not advise us if any students have learning disabilities or other issues until it becomes evident through our first interactions with them. Our Naturalists must then adapt and determine the best way to form their week, whether to tailor their activities or to simply go about the week in the usual way.

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Photo On the trail near Ponderosa Lodge John Ricketts photographer

A remarkable thing happened when Jonny*, a fifth grader, and his dad Dale* were part of Callan’s trail group. Callan noticed something was unique about Jonny right away. He would raise his hand to answer a question, and then begin to cry when called on to respond. Callan’s group was small, only about eight students. In our trail groups, the kids and their leader stay together for every class and activity all week long, allowing the naturalist to build a relationship with each child (much like a camp counselor). It also helps them adapt to the learning style of each child, including those with special needs, and to engage the other students in the process.

Callan approached Jonny’s Dad for advice on how to best teach his son. Dale said, “You do whatever you think is best; we are just so excited to be here.” Callan noticed her students were catching on quickly to the science material, and then were rallying around Jonny, helping him overcome and succeed. She went with the flow, and all the students became Jonny’s encouragers.

They saw that Jonny was good at spelling, and even though it took him awhile to spell a word aloud, they all waited patiently,then cheered for Jonny’s accomplishment.

During the week Jonny did everything that the other kids were doing, and experienced life and nature in a way he never had before. Callan and her trail group loved Jonny unconditionally. At the end of the week, Callan herself was overcome by the tears of joy from both Jonny and Dale, who sent a letter saying,

“I am writing to express my appreciation to your staff for accommodating the needs of my son. You helped give him an experience that every fifth grader should have. Thank you!”

When we are attentive, situations like these become ‘thin’ places, where the distance between the needy individual and the presence of God is barely a veil. In those moments, all we have to do is whisper God’s love through our actions, and the veil disappears. The person finds themself enveloped in the palpable love of God.

All we have to do is whisper God’s love through our actions, and the veil disappears.

Jonny and his Dad are from a public school in the Mountain View area, and both have autism. But our Creator God knows them intimately and chose a week at our Outdoor Science Camp to make a connection. He’s equipped us to love as He loves us, to be creative and responsive, and to join with Him who is the “overcomer!”

Our Naturalists are just beginning another season of loving kids and revealing God through nature. As they come to mind, pray that they will be attentive to the thin places. *Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the campers.

Suzy Clark is the spunky Director of Mount Hermon’s Outdoor Science School. Wish you could attend? Email her about her crazy new field trips for adults. suzy.clark@mounthermon.org 11

Quiet Stewardship

by Don Broesamle

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Photo Nephew John Chapin & wife Marcia, with Catherine Chapin (center)

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atherine Chapin grew up on a farm near Portland, Oregon, amid the open spaces. She met husband Philip while on vacation in San Francisco, and he traveled often to Oregon to win her. They settled in the Bay Area. Philip had a Civil Service career in the Hunters Point Shipyard as a Senior Engineer, re-working aircraft carriers after tours at sea. He died in 1995. Catherine worked 20 years in Palo Alto for General Mills in their accounting department. She died this year at 93 years of age.

Mount Hermon had long been important in Philip’s life. After their marriage, he introduced Catherine to Mount Hermon, and it became an integral part of their 37 years together. They were frugal Depression era folks, saving carefully and sharing as the Lord led. They had a heart for missions and for good teaching of God’s Word, each hallmarks of Mount Hermon.

Unknown to us, years ago Catherine and Philip named Mount Hermon a beneficiary in their will. They wanted to make a lasting mark of their love for the Lord’s work here.

Philip and Catherine could not have known how their quiet stewardship would bless Mount Hermon so many years later. Mount Hermon was weathering the economic crunch, and the Lord had heightened our spiritual attention. Over the previous 12 months, our staff had readjusted and re-budgeted in innovative ways. Job positions were reconfigured and workloads shifted. Nothing was “sacred,” except the spaces where the Lord was still marvelously at work throughout Mount Hermon.

At their May 9 meeting, our Board faced some tough financial decisions. Having spent the previous day in prayer at our annual retreat,they chose to postpone

Don Broesamle is Director of Church Relations. When researching this story he found that the estate’s trustee, John Chapin, was a long-lost childhood friend!

certain difficult choices and wait on the Lord. They prayed with Habakkuk, “We will stand and watch to see what He will say.” More in obedience than faith we waited… praying, trusting. And so it was, “on the third day” of expectant prayer, the Lord declared His glory!

On May 12, during Bill Gwinn’s memorial, an attorney called to say that in two days Mount Hermon would receive a gift for $475,000!

The Chapin’s estate had made one of the largest bequests in Mount Hermon’s history. Their gift met our need exactly and provided a cash flow source at at critical point in time.

Might you also be an answer to prayer in this magnitude? The Chapins were not able to be large or even frequent donors to Mount Hermon during their lifetime, quietly giving when and what they could in an offering or to a particular need. In death, though, the fruit of decades of labor and stewardship became a significant blessing.

If you would like to learn more about how to make such an impact, please contact J.R. Loofbourrow at jr.loofbourrow@mounthermon.org.

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Sovereign LORD is my strength!

—Habakkuk 3:17-19 Mount Hermon’s theme verse for 2009.

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Global Impact

by Bill Fernald

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hat energizes our guest services team the most is the idea that we in some way get to be a part of life transforming experiences as our guests interact with Jesus. In 3 John we read how the Apostle John encourages a man named Gaius for the hospitality he has extended to Christian missionaries traveling along the way. John says, “In providing meals and a bed, you become their companion in spreading the Truth.” Our version of that here at Mount Hermon would be, “in providing meals and a bed … and a meeting room, audio-visual support, great recreation options like kayaking, mountain biking and skateboarding … we become companions in spreading the truth.”

In March of 2010 we will have the privilege of partnering with an exciting ministry that will extend the reach of Mount Hermon’s ministry around the globe. The Evangelical Free Church of America will hold its 126th annual global Leadership Summit here. This year the event was held in Bangladesh … next year in the Redwoods! 130 leaders from every continent on the globe will be here to pray for and plan their worldwide work.

Their executive director had been to Mount Hermon and personally called to ask if we would be willing to host their marathon ten day event, spanning two spring weekends.

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Bill Fernald has led the Guest Services Team at Mount Hermon by example for fifteen years. Their commitment to our guests mirrors his heart for service.

“I really want my leaders to be at Mount Hermon,” he said. “The beauty, the rest and connecting together and with God will be so supportive of their efforts, and I know your staff will go out of their way to serve well.” This will be an unusual conference for us, with the international elements and length adding complexity. Yet our team is so excited to be a part of what ReachGlobal is doing throughout the world.

This will be an unusual conference for us...Yet our team is so excited to be a part of what ReachGlobal is doing throughout the world.

From church planting in Venezuela, to medical relief in the Congo, to supporting education for students pursuing pastoral ministry in Sudan, ReachGlobal is making a difference for Christ. Sports camps, new wells, schools, gang outreach, orphanages and more are all a part of their ministry. As we become their companions in spreading the truth we accomplish our mission “to serve his church throughout the world”

Photo courtsey of ReachGlobal

Timeless Investment

by Don Broesamle

My memorial from generation to generation –Exodus 3:15 One Singley son almost fell into the septic tank. Later a jackhammer impaled a skunk under the deck! Adopting a cabin can be an adventure, but Sycamore is now in good shape, thanks to three generations of Singleys who have given resources and sweat equity in following their family’s five-generation Mount Hermon legacy.

In 1906 great-great-grandparents brought the family matriarch, great-grandmother Lois Chamberlain (then 5), to the first Mount Hermon “encampment.” Later Lois and greatgrandpa Frank built a cabin on Plaza where Grandma Carolee and Papa Ron live. Now they have led the next generations to invest here, too. The grandkids feel the family’s heritage in the footbridge over Conference Drive, the Memorial Chapel, and other sacred spaces built by great-grandpa Frank. Daughter Robin recalls how her mom helped shingle that steep chapel roof!

Ron’s heart envisioned the family doing a project they all loved. They “adopted” Sycamore cabin, refurbished, repainted and landscaped the old place, to now serve scores of families for years to come. The greatest blessing for the Singleys is praying by name for each family staying in Sycamore, from a list provided to them each summer.

Son Jon says, “Our family has caught Dad’s vision for Mount Hermon and we’ll pass it to our own grandkids too. Our kids are thrilled to be here, and seeing lives changed through the generations.”

The adopted Sycamore Cabin

Ron shared, “Our family isn’t special. We serve in gratitude for our Lord’s unconditional love.

Mount Hermon is special because He is special.”

Whether or not you choose to be “hands-on” like the Singleys, cabin adoption is an incalculable service to families, creating sacred spaces where lives are transformed. If you’re looking for a worthy cabin to adopt, contact us for list of those waiting for a patron like you!

Don Broesamle is friends with three generations of the Singley clan, making this interview as fun as the last.

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Celebrating Forty Years

by Don Broesamle

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n an August evening 80 alumni and friends gathered to celebrate 40 years of Ponderosa Lodge ministry.

Over fresh pies contributed by Brian Ehrenholm, (who learned to cook at camp), people shared their long-term connection to Ponderosa and its ministry.

More alumni arrived Saturday, and joined campers, parents and staff on the last day of summer camp. Games on the field and in the pools rekindled community, and peaked that evening as Robin Agee Spurlock led a ‘worship through the decades’ with some pretty funky choruses and songs.

For Ron Demolar, Ponderosa’s first Director, reconnecting with “family” and recalling memories was priceless. Pete Dyst was on hand to represent the forty years of CRC HI-Camp, the first campers ever to enjoy the property. John Jenks amazed us in describing the project history and funding miracle that gave us Ponderosa Lodge.

Casey Gwinn richly recalled his dad’s dream for a specific youth ministry venue, how Billy Graham prayed God would give us the final needed acres, and the Board’s “blind faith” to build all in one phase!

Today, over 300,000 people have been ministered to at Ponderosa. Ron’s greatest joy is in the large number of staff who, as a result of their first ministry opportunity at Ponderosa, caught the vision for service, and are now in significant lay and full time ministries. This was indeed the vision the Lord sprouted 40 years ago, and it’s still producing a rich harvest!

To view the video commemorating Ponderosa’s 40 years visit mounthermon.org and click on blog.

Counselors and staff from each decade melded their accounts of God’s work in so many lives—a rich, unorchestrated blend of old and young. This summer’s staff spoke both of ministry to students and of their own growth in maturity in Christ. It was a powerful time.

Don Broesamle was a counselor the first summer at Ponderosa.

His life was one of the thousands transformed.

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Jammin’ for the glory of God

by Dave Burns

The Christian Songwriters’ Conference has become one of the most anticipated and beloved events in our ministry calendar.

Started in 2008, it is patterned after our legendary Christian Writers’ Conference which celebrated its 40th consecutive year this spring. Both events have the focus of a laser-beam, bringing outstanding faculty and resources to help artists hone their craft, equipping them to serve more effectively wherever God has called them.

The grounds are saturated with music for the entire four-day conference! On a stroll across the commons you might meander through a duo of fiddlers, cross paths with a strumming guitar player, and settle on a bench where a lyricist and arranger have their heads together in excited collaboration. Some of the most loved songwriters in America can be heard in the background rehearsing for the evening worship set. Shane and Shane, Don Moen, Lincoln Brewster, Sara Groves, and Joy Williams were all on hand to lead their professional colleagues to the throne of grace. And the wisdom of gospel music legend Charlie Peacock in the general sessions was nothing less than anointed.

More than sixty seminars covered topics from the creative inspiration of writing to

the pragmatics of publishing and recording.

But the favorite part of the conference for all are the sessions called “Songs and their Stories,” where artists share from their hearts the life circumstances and personal experience behind familiar songs.

The atmosphere is intimate and informal.

Guests are amazed that, unlike worship/ songwriting conventions held across the country, this event allows them to spend time with artists. Having a meal, an informal critique on a work in progress, a mentoring walk, exchanging songs during an open mic session…these become unforgettable and life-changing moments for aspiring songwriters.

This comment from an attendee sums it up: “The bottom line is—this is an amazing event! Period. I heard several staff acknowledge the challenges the economy presented this year. I commend you all for carrying on in faith. May the seeds planted yield 100-fold. I came afraid of my own high hopes. God blew me away. The staff gave me things to think about that will rudder my songwriting ship back onto a truer course for the long haul.”

As Director of Adult Ministries, Dave gets to enjoy great events all year round. He is an accomplished and published songwriter and worship leader so this event is one of his favorites!

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The Gwinn Legacy Lives On.

by Don Broesamle with Melissa Gwinn Assink

The Rev. William Douglas “Bill” Gwinn 1929–2009 Much is known of Bill Gwinn’s years as Executive Director of Mount Hermon, from 1957—1978. But little has been shared regarding Bill Gwinn, the family man. Here’s a glimpse into the heart of a dad for his family, as shared through the joy of his daughter, Melissa Gwinn Assink of Seattle.

Bill Gwinn’s daughter Melissa shared, “It’s hard to separate memories of Dad from memories of Mount Hermon. It was an amazing place to grow up. Each busy summer we knew Dad belonged to the people at camp, and that was OK with us kids.

Yet Bill’s son Casey tells how his dad “never missed one of my games,” and Melissa recalls her dad at her school functions too.

“He rarely missed seeing me in marching band, pep band or with the pep club. Dad was right there, sharing my memories. It felt like being in a Norman Rockwell painting.”

Bill’s foremost love was Colette, his beloved bride of 58 years. He enjoyed convertibles, whiffle ball with the kids, building sand castles, waterskiiing and a relaxing Jacuzzi!

He took many summer staff to Giants games, and he “always had fireworks in his closet to celebrate any event.” But his old coronet— well, “the sound was no longer impressive.”

Bill’s first stint at Mount Hermon was in 1953 as summer staff dean under Dr. Fulton Lytle.

He was hooked, from then on wanting to be in Christian camping some day. In 1957 he dreamed that two men came asking him to work at Mount Hermon, and the next day two men came asking him to be Mount Hermon’s Program Director! The rest is history.

The Gwinn Legacy continued with Bill’s granddaughters on 2009 summer staff: Kelly at Ponderosa Lodge (and as intern in 2009/10), and Karianne at Conference Center. The legacy also lives on in a decision shared by the Gwinn family and our Board of Directors to convert Azalea Lodge to GWINN LODGE, with planned upgrades to this key facility.

Mount Hermon owes much to this visionary Christian Camping leader. But Bill’s family owes immeasurably more to a dad whose vision for them remained the “main thing.”

The Gwinn kids loved growing up on the mountain. It has been fun to reconnect with Melissa and the family through the next generation of Gwinns.

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Scott Halverson

by Don Broesamle

Mount Hermon Finance Director 1992—2009

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He had a hoot with his friends, and always let us know, in jokes and games, and with encouragement in kind words that strengthened and edified.

Scott Halverson loved life big time. We see that in his contented, fulfilled smile.

Most of all, Scott loved his Lord, who carried him through his ordeal, and welcomed him home to His arms. Thank you Becky and Daniel for sharing your dad with us. Bless you Lynne for “completing” him so obviously. We praise You, Lord, for our every memory of your servant Scott.

picture is worth a thousand words!

In this one we can feel Becky’s heart and Daniel’s respect for their beloved dad. We’re drawn into Lynne’s delight-filled, loving oneness with her husband. Emotions—won, earned and nurtured by a father who enjoyed and treasured his dear family, and loved his sweet bride as Christ loved His church.

BOOK OF

HONOR

JIM & MYRT ARTHUR (IN HONOR OF 46TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY) Leila Arthur

PAUL BARTON (IN HONOR OF 80TH BIRTHDAY) Earl & Ruth Sutherland

BILL & DONNA BRUSH (IN HONOR OF 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY) Earl & Ruth Sutherland

KEN HARROWER (IN HONOR OF KEN’S RETIREMENT) Gordon & Christine Warren

EDDIE EVANS (IN HONOR OF 100TH BIRTHDAY) David & Carolyn Hendsch

BARBARA GRENSTED (IN HONOR OF 80TH BIRTHDAY) Stephen & Cheryl Andrews Lucille Bowen Vera Cliff Mary Gerdes Richard & Cheryl Hill Chuck & Vonnie Lombard Walt & Lynette Maynes Priscilla Myatt Rosemarie Pecanic

MELVIN & BONNIE HO (IN HONOR OF THEIR KINDNESS & GENEROSITY) Nelda Olson

JEANNETTE MAIER (IN HONOR OF 80TH BIRTHDAY) Earl & Ruth Sutherland

ANN PEDRICK Janet Arnold

JOE ALDRICH

RON CLAES

ESTHER ANDERSON

JOE COPELAND

JAY ANDERSON

WILLIAM & JUNE CRAGOE

Len & Diana Sunukjian Dave & Petey Pehrson

Bea Anderson David & Arden Bogaard Jack & Phyllis Cauwels Ron & Jacquie Demolar Larry & Carla Lovelin Bill & Raemajean Steffen Eloise Price Tim & Bonnie Schoap Ed & Nancy Slater Earl & Ruth Sutherland

LOUISA LEFEBRE ANDERSON Gerald & Ellen Grant Ken & Mari Harrower Gerald & Rebecca Kenny Arlyss Lilley Duke McCluskey Jim & Peggy Mills Rod & Kathy Peterson Dan & Dee Roach

Fred Hawkinson Beulah Olson

Ralph & Ruth Loper

ZELMA CREE

Ken & Mari Harrower

RON DICK

Bernie & Miriam Denton

CLAUDE DIX

David & Arden Bogaard

GLADYS FENZ June Lange

WILLARD FENZ June Lange

WILLIAM FISHER Georgia Fisher

Jerry & Cathy Lewis Pastor Roger & Amy Lewis Arlyss Lilley Chuck & Vonnie Lombard J.R. & Laurie Loofbourrow Walter & Marie Love Mark & Marilyn Markham Robert & Renee Mayer Bill & Marie Mays Neoma McCaughey Fred & Marilyn Miller Lola Moore Bruno & Josephine Movrich Oh-Be-Joyful Church Nelda Olson Outdoor Resorts Chapel Glenn & Marilyn Passwater Jeanine Lange Peek Verne & Joyce Pynn Roger & Melissa Reynolds Ray & Lillian Richards John & Lori Saubert Barbara Sesich Gil & Barbara Sheffield Duane & Beverly Shinn Mahlon & Fran Shipley Howie & Marilyn Stevenson

Book of Remem

Dorothy Roach John & Kathy Roach Sam & Dianna Roach

ALLEN GATES

MARY ANDERSON

Norma Robinson

Ken Anderson

PAUL BACON

Jane Bacon Bob & Carole Carlton Fred Hawkinson Chuck & Vonnie Lombard Jim & Anita Monteith

JACK BAMRUD

Tilli Bamrud Perc & Jo Anglin Bob & Carol Cole Leonard & Joyce DeWitt Dick & Gail Eckstrom Kristina (Eriksen) and Michael Post Peter Funk Marilyn Gustafson Raymond & Darlene Patrick

MARY BARKMAN Leon Accorne

ALICE BATEMAN William & Iris Maize

WES BATEMAN

Milton & Joan Andrew William & Iris Maize

PAUL CHALMERS

Priscilla Dean Irene Hough Diane Knudson Mr. & Mrs. Robert Westby

20

Walt & Lynette Maynes

ANN GAZARIAN WIILIAM D. GWINN (BILL) David & Joanne Anderson Philip & Melissa Assink Richard & Shirley Blick David & Arden Bogaard Chuck & Barbara Byrnes Dave & Harriet Capron Jack & Phyllis Cauwels Paul & Jean Cedar Grover & Dona Cleveland Jim & Mary Crawford John & Winnie Crew Carl & Carolyn Crouse Andrew & Cynthia Dale Dallas Theological Seminary Roy & Alta Davis Ron & Jacquie Demolar Larry & Shirley Esau James & Harriett De Frates Jenny (Gwinn) & Chris De Frates Bernie & Miriam Denton Douglas & Elli Donner Bill & Carol Eckhoff Roger & Norma Gintert James Gorton Mary Lou Grunigen Doug & Linda Gwinn Jim & Karen Gwinn Ken and Mari Harrower Virginia (Ginny) Henderson Howard & Jeanne Hendricks Jerry & Arlene Hitchman John & Laurie Jenks Mark & Lois Jennings Jim & Ruth Kennedy June Lange

Glenn & Rita Stewart John & Heather Stewart Beverly Stirm Carl & Agnes Stilwell Len & Diana Sunukjian Earl & Ruth Sutherland Lonnie & Colette (Miller) Sweers Dave & Carla Talbott Beverly McMorran Thomas Carole Thorburgh Arnold & Virginia True Paul & Barbara VanMaanen Helen Venn Gary & Charlyene Wall Arnold & Bonnie Welch Robert & Wanda Welles Priscilla Weiss Stan & Angie White Frank & Betty Willems James & Dorothy Wood

SCOTT HALVERSON

Ron & Jacquie Demolar Bill & Patrice Fernald Steve and Debbie Franck Jack & Phyllis Cauwels Barbara Grensted Ken & Mari Harrower Esther Hughes Alden & Lorna Johanson Ann Johnson Jerry & Cathy Lewis Arlyss Lilley J.R. & Laurie Loofbourrow Chuck & Vonnie Lombard Walt & Lynette Maynes The Navigators Cynthia Peterson Roger & Melissa Reynolds Pete & Vicky St. Geme Carl & Agnes Stilwell Len & Diana Sunukjian

Lonnie & Colette (Miller) Sweers Dave & Carla Talbott Priscilla Weiss

FLORA HARROWER Dorothy Arndt Ron & Jacquie Demolar Ken & Mari Harrower Harriett Hill Jim & Margot Patrick

CLARE HEADY Ann Johnson

FLOSSIE HERFT

Fred & Lillian Menezes

SCOTT HUDDLESON Robert & Dorothy Walker

ARBA HUDGENS Nelda Olson

MARY JACOBS

Roger Carlson Mr. & Mrs. Mark Jensen Elizabeth Riddle

CLARENCE LUNDBERG Dave & Petey Pehrson

RALPH LOGAN

James & Carolyn Sias

NEIL LYM

Colleen Lym

AGGIE MACHADO Virginia Bixby

CHARLES NEFF

Charlie & Emilie Pyle

GLORIANNE PERSINGER Jennifer Kemme Anthony Persinger

PAMELA T. PON Betty Pon

RICHARD REMINGTON Don & Pauline Gielow

BETTY SARTORI Joy Dawson

brance RAY & ELLA MAE JOHNSON

JOE & LIZ SAUBERT

CECIL & KATHERINE KETTLE

MARY ANNE SEABERG

Esther Hughes

Duke McCluskey

WILLIAM & MAXINE KNIFFEN Ann S. Chontos Gary J. Kniffen Mark W. Kniffen Jeanette E. Winters

FRANK & ANN KOBESAK Dianne Kobesak Ron Kobesak James & Susan Sholer Wade & Joanne Walter

JEAnNETTe KRAFT Jack & Phyllis Cauwels Earl & Ruth Sutherland

The Rev. RALPH KRAFT Earl & Ruth Sutherland

KEN LANGE

Jeanine Lange Peek

WILLIAM LANGE Jeanine Lange Peek

ROGER LAPUM Ken & Pat Heinz

RONALD LEINIO Virginia Denny Mark & Joan Folden

EUNICE LINTHICUM Ray & Wilma Opfer Patricia & Fred Wilson

Larry & Shirley Esau

Louise Ferrin Jim & Mary Musgrave

DAN STEWART Joy Dawson

RITA STEWART

Norma Andersen Blackwell Nancy Forsman

RITA SWEATT

Leon Accorne Virginia Bixby Colleen Coleman Harbison-Mahony-Higgins Builders, Inc. Art & Viola Nunes Denny & Marianne Weisgerber

BEATRICE ELIZABETH (BETTY) SWENSON Jack Bariteau Bruce & Elna Barron Preston & Penelope Brunst Arthur & Jean Carmichael, Jr. Brian & Jennifer Cilker Roy Combs Henry & Cathy Down Robert & Jane Fukuda Nancy Giannetto Stan & Elaine Gould

Betty Greenley Higashi Family Shogo & Chiyo Hikido Hillcresters Birgit Karlsson James & Sherrill Kenny Leland Livingston William McCollam Pat & Joyce Milligan John Morey, Jr. Elizabeth Nygren Alan & Gloria Rehbock Donald & Marilyn Richardson Louis & Joanne Rosendin Murphy & Carol Sabatino, Jr. Gary & Laura Schoennauer Kerstin Simonsson Fellow & Molly Stearns Linda Sullivan Lloyd & Hanso Swenson Uchiyama Family James & Joanne Unites

WILLIAM & VIRGINIA TALBOTT Ken & Mari Harrower

JAMES THOMAS

Earl & Ruth Sutherland

ALBERT VAN DIEST Leon Accorne

BETTY WALLEN

Ron & Jacquie Demolar Ken and Mari Harrower

ALLAN WATSON

Mark & Lois Jennings Earl & Ruth Sutherland

MARJORIE WEBSTER Wilma Erlandson

STEWART WELLINGTON Leon Accorne

JANET WERNER

John & Judy Lageshulte

JOY WILLIAMS Gil & Marge Gunn

CLARK WRIGHT

Kevin & Lisa Dinwiddle Daniel & Nancy Hynie

ELSIE G. ZUERCHER (ZIMMERMANN) Jerry Kopec John & Ruth Kopec

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.

October 2009 2–4 8 9–11 October 2—4 8 9—11 23–25 26–29 30–1

Dads & Sons | Redwood Camp Hymn Sing & Luncheon Fall Men’s I | Ponderosa Lodge Dads & Sons | Redwood Camp Hymn Sing & Luncheon Mens Retreat I | Ponderosa Lodge Mens Retreat II | Ponderosa Lodge Fall Adult Conference Fall Frenzy I (Junior High) | Ponderosa Lodge

November 30–1 6—8 6—8 13—15 26–29

Fall Frenzy I (Junior High) | Ponderosa Lodge Fall Fenzy II (Junior High) | Ponderosa Lodge Pre–Holiday Women’s Spiritual Retreat I Pre–Holiday Women’s Spiritual Retreat II Thanksgiving Family Camp

December 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

2010 February 4 12—15 19–20 19—21

Hymn Sing & Luncheon All Comers Conference Youth Advisers Retreat | Ponderosa Lodge Couples Retreat I

March

8—11 12—14 19—21 19—21 26–29

April 1 4 9—11

23–25 30–2 30–2

May

7—8 8—9 9 14–16 28–31

27

June 13—19 Visit

Christian Camp & Conference Association Junior GetAway I (4th to 6th graders)| Redwood Camp Women’s Spiritual Retreat Junior GetAway II (4th to 6th graders) | Redwood Camp Christian Writers Conference Hymn Sing & Luncheon Easter Sunrise Service | Ponderosa Women’s Retreat (formerly Women at Change Points) Couples Retreat II Moms & Daughters | Redwood Camp Spring Women’s Retreat | Ponderosa Lodge Associates in Ministry Weekend Redwood Camp Open House | Redwood Camp Mother’s Day Worship & Buffet Lunch Mom’s & Sons Youth Pastors Whitewater Rafting Trip | Kidder Creek Hymn Sing & Luncheon Sunday Worship, Family Camps & Youth Camps begin!

mounthermon.org for more information on upcoming events.

Wanted

August 10–21, 2010

individuals & families to join the core group that is the backbone of ministry.

Associates

• Give $500 or more annually to the Mount Hermon Fund and/or to Camperships.

• Pray regularly and tell others what God is doing to transform lives.

Interested?

Called?

Willing?

Contact Dave Talbott Associate Director of Advancement dave.talbott@mounthermon.org 831-430-1241

Make your year-end gift through your Individual Retirement Account!

If you are over 701/2 you can rollover up to $100,000 from your IRA to charity without Federal tax impact.

Better yet, the gift will qualify for your required IRA distribution, thereby lowering your taxable income.

For more information on how you can partner with Mount Hermon in planning for the future please contact J. R. Loofbourrow at jr.loofbourrow@mounthermon.org. or 831-430-1237 Gifts with a Future mounthermon.org/giftlegacy

• Tour Prague, Leipzig, Wittenberg, Zurich, & Geneva.

• Watch the reformers coming to life through the damatic interpretation of Dr. Reg Grant, Dallas Seminary.

• Soak up the breathtaking Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany.

Space is limited. Don’t Delay!

For a brochure call 831.430.1237 or go to mounthermon.org.

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 Climbing. John Ricketts Inside Cover PHoto Train Day fun on Boardwalk Beach. John Ricketts Upcoming events Family Camp BBQ, Ponderosa Lodge messy games, Study at Redwood Camp. John Ricketts Back Volunteer, Dick Dosker at the Historical Center. John Ricketts

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