2019 LUTHERLYNLUTHERLYN Accepted.Accepted. Challenged.Challenged. Sent.Sent. WWW.LUTHERLYN.COMWWW.LUTHERLYN.COM LUTHERLYN’S CORE AREAS OF MINISTRY Exciting news: All 5 core areas of ministry experienced growth in 2018!
Adventure Summer Camp Environmental Retreats Equestrian Education 2018 ALL STAFF REUNION More than 150 “staffers” and their families donned their vintage Lutherlyn tee’s, hats, and headbands and came to Lutherlyn for the 70th anniversary All Staff Reunion! We reminisced while enjoying classic camp activities like hay rides, crafts, canoeing, ropes course, swimming, and a cookout dinner. We worshipped together in the amphitheater and had a great time at campfire by Lower Lake. As a special reminder of our history, Rev. Sam Shaulis’ daughter, Betty Sue, lit the fire while reading “Kneel Always When You Light a Fire,” just as her father had done many times during his tenure at Lutherlyn. It was a fun and special day; we can’t wait to do it again! If you served on staff but missed the reunion in 2018, don’t worry, we’ll celebrate Lutherlyn’s 75th anniversary in 2023 with another All Staff Reunion. We need your help to find more staffers! As we planned 2018's All Staff Reunion, we received a lot of questions about whose information we do (or do not) have. Our current Kneel always when you light a fire. Kneel reverently and thankful be to God for His unfailing database does not contain any information from charity. And on the ascending flame inspire a prayer of thankfulness for this sweet gift of warmth old payroll records, staff directories, or previous and light; for here, indeed, is sacrifice for your delight. Kneel always when you light a fire. Kneel reunion events and, unfortunately, we were only reverently and thankful be to God for His unfailing charity. - John Oxenham able to manually search these records for the last few years. Even if you were on staff for many Lutherlyn extends years and receive mailings from Lutherlyn (like the ministry and this newsletter) it is possible that you are not mission of Jesus labeled as former staff in our database. Christ by inviting all people to If you were a member of Lutherlyn’s staff at engage the Word any time and did not receive an invitation/ of God, one brochure for the 2018 reunion, then we do not another have you labeled correctly in our database. To and themselves in correct this, please fill out the form at an intentional, challenging, www.lutherlyn.com/staffinvite or contact us at exciting, and fun 724-865-2161. Once we have your information outdoor Christian updated in our database, we will be sure to keep community you up to date on all future staff reunions and centered in the events! Many thanks to all of the past staff who grace of God and the goodness of came home to celebrate; it was such a special day earth and life. in the life of Lutherlyn! 2
SummerSummer CampCamp LIFE-CHANGING ADVENTURES IN FAITH! LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY SPREAD THE WORD! One of the things that we want every camper to Please invite friends, neighbors, grandchildren, kids experience at Lutherlyn is the opportunity to pray from your congregation, and friends of your children and to make prayer a regular part of their life. We have always prayed each day at Morning Watch, to register for summer camp! A personal invitation meals, Bible Study, Worship, and Candle Power. from someone who knows and loves camp is the Many people remember some of the meal time most effective way to get new campers to Lutherlyn! prayers from camp and use them at home with LUTHERLYN EXPERIENCE their own families (Johnny Appleseed, the Doxology, God is Great to the tune of “Meet the Over the past 25+ years I have been involved with Flintstones,” Thanks be to God to the tune of Lutherlyn in a variety of ways. I first remember my parents “Windy”). We continue to use those prayers but signing me and my brothers up for summer camp. We were last summer we started a new prayer tradition at reluctant to go at first, but looking back it was one of the best Lutherlyn. At lunch every day, each cabin group experiences of our young lives. I was a camper from the time prays together at their table through a spoken I was 10 until I was 16. I did Classic Camp for a majority of prayer. This gives every camper the opportunity to my younger years and then I discovered the Go-For-It share a spoken prayer with their cabin group, if program and truly found my place! It was in great part to my they want to. We want our campers to learn that amazing counselors and one in particular, Geir. The Go-for-It the words don’t have to be fancy or long or sung to experience has shaped me into the person that I am today, the tune of anything. We want them to learn that without a question. This was a program that allowed me to prayer is a conversation with God that everyone experience amazing adventures not only physically but also can have. We will continue this tradition at camp adventures in faith. Go-For-It was a week of high adventures and we hope that our campers leave Lutherlyn in camping, rafting, canoeing, caving, and my personal knowing that they can pray to God about anything favorite, rock climbing! that is on their mind and heart. When my days of being a camper came to an end, I decided to try to become one of the counselors that I $100 off idolized. I spent a year as an on-site counselor, learning all the traditional camp activities and I loved every second of it. for FIRST-TIME campers! For the next several summers I was one of the Go-For-It This coupon code entitles FIRST-TIME Lutherlyn campers to $100 off of the registration fee for Summer 2019. This counselors. That is still one of my favorite “jobs” that I have applies to Lutherlyn’s residential week-long programs. Half ever had. Taking 10 high schoolers out to experience week programs (Young Folks & Sampler) get $50 off for adventures and seeing the pure joy and excitement on their FIRST-TIME campers. Does not apply to Family Camp, faces when they overcame a challenge that they did not think Confirmation Camp, Day Camps, or Small Fry Days. Must they could possibly do was one of the most amazing feelings be a FIRST TIME summer camper. No additional discounts may be combined with this offer. Enter coupon code: ever. Lutherlyn has given me so many amazing adventures, NLTR19. Register at WWW.LUTHERLYN.COM. experiences, and memories over the years. When my counselor days drew to an end I didn’t return to UPDATE FROM ALEXANDER Camp for several years… something about “adulting” (over rated). However, I started to volunteer and found the love for In the summer of 2013, Lutherlyn hosted an camp once again! I have been volunteering for the last international camp counselor from Liberia through several years as an adventure resource person. I am again the ELCA international camp staff program. able to help campers conquer challenges that they did not Alexander spent the summer with us and shared believe they could overcome. his story of civil war throughout his childhood in I have recently had the honor of giving the Lutherlyn Liberia. His dream was to go to college and experience to my own children, and I couldn't be become a nurse, so Lutherlyn’s summer offering happier! My three children have been attending camp and project that year was to provide money for loving it as much as I did. My oldest son did the staff-in- Alexander’s education. Through the generosity of training program last year and hopefully follows the path to Lutherlyn’s campers and friends he was able to go become a counselor as well. Seeing camp as a camper, to nursing school. Alexander took this gift very counselor, volunteer, and parent has been a blessing that I seriously, he worked hard through many obstacles look back on now and can not properly put into words. I am (including an entire semester cancelled due to the so thankful to have Lutherlyn in my life and in the lives of Ebola outbreak in Liberia), and on June 26, 2018, my family. Lutherlyn is without a shadow of a doubt a life- Alexander graduated at the top of his class as a changing adventure in faith! Physician Assistant. Here is a message from Sincerely, Alexander: Brad Wheeler “Many thanks to God Almighty, the Lutheran SUMMER STAFF SEARCH Church in Liberia and the entire Lutherlyn family for If you or someone you know is interested providing me this amazing in serving God, making a difference in the opportunity that resulted lives of campers, being part of a Christian in graduating cum-laude community, and having a great time with with a Bachelors of Science as a Physician lots of kids, please check out the Assistant. Happy with my “employment” section of new career.” lutherlyn.com or contact the camp office! 33
EquestrianEquestrian CenterCenter && AdventureAdventure
I LOVE LUTHERLYN EQUESTRIAN CENTER BECAUSE…
“I love that as a “I love the quirky horses. beginner I never They can be funny and are feel judged. great for kids. The barn is Everyone is so organized. You have a supportive and very patient instructor who encouraging.” will teach you something ~ Andi, 34 new every day. I also like the arena top.” ~ Alexis, 14
“I love being able to pet horses and I love “I like riding and watching riding.” them play in the field.” ~ Brandon, 16 ~ Ava, 8
“I would have to say the people: Carla and Teresa and the lesson “I am glad to learn the whole barn students are so sweet. Everyone gets along so “I love the bond experience, which makes me appreciate well! It makes the barn you make with all the work that needs to be done just to the best place to be.” different horses.” ride. I love my instructor and Carla; they ~ Sarah, 16 ~ Lauren, 22 make my experience enjoyable.” ~ Gail, 56
WISH LIST LUTHERLYN ADVENTURE PROGRAM (see the full list at www.lutherlyn.com under the “support” menu) Thank you to all of the campers, donors, volunteers, and Site and Facility: Equestrian Center: participants that took advantage of adventure programming at Golf Cart for Nurses (prefer electric) Shop Vac (around 15 gallons) 6-foot white plastic tables – Lifetime Electric Air Compressor Lutherlyn in 2018. We had another wonderful year and we look brand (16) Rubber mats for stalls forward to providing more adventures that allow us to welcome 50-foot outdoor extension cords (10) Water proof sheets of all sizes and challenge all of our campers and guests in 2019! Multi-plug power strips (10) Water proof blankets of all sizes Flatware (knives, forks, spoons) Size 13, 14, 15 mens boots Thanks to a generous donation to the adventure program this New or gently used vacuum cleaners Size 10 & 11 girls boots year, we replaced much of our climbing equipment. Lutherlyn’s Reliable mini vans or SUVs with Fly spray & fly masks climbing program is now furnished with new ropes, helmets, current inspection Dressage saddle harnesses, carabiners, and rescue equipment that will help us to Reliable 4 wheel drive pick-up truck Horse Joint supplements with inspection Horse Multivitamin supplements continue to provide safe and exciting programs at Lutherlyn and Truckloads of 2A limestone (for roads Cat Food offsite. and paths) Cat flea & tick treatment Our summer Adventurers program continues to grow. This past summer we Gift Cards for Home Depot, Lowes, expanded our second level to include a half week stay at Ohiopyle State Park; where and Walmart Environmental Education: New work gloves (all sizes) Kid- and adult-sized rain coats campers were able to participate in whitewater rafting down the Youghiogheny River, New or like-new washers and dryers Riding mower or small tractor (for practice rock climbing skills, and spend a morning caving at Laurel Caverns. This Painter’s Tape (blue) – 1- and 2- in. hauling compost) coming summer we are looking to offer this program three times, as well as four wide NEW 8x10 tarps, and larger Tarps (all sizes, no holes) Kid- and adult-sized winter gloves weeks of our level one program. The 2019 summer season will also extend an exciting 8 oz. “Cool Whip” containers special adventure program for our Junior campers. Keep an eye out for the summer Office: brochure to read all about the opportunities to explore. Forever stamps Special Events that Benefit Pens & pencils Camperships: We also completed work on a new low challenge course and a new high ropes Dry erase markers and erasers Handmade bed-size quilts for Quilt activity. At the high ropes course, we piloted an activity called “Crate Stack”. The Copy paper Auctions and Sales harnessed participant is placed on belay and works to build a stack of crates as high as White cardstock Gift Baskets (contact the office for they can. The participant climbs up the corners of the crates and places a new crate on Paperclips more specifics) Masking tape Monetary Sponsorships top. The participant continues to climb and place crates until the tower gives way and Scissors the participant is caught by the rope. Permanent markers Volunteers: Skilled volunteers to hang drywall The new low challenge course element has been named Stepping Stones and New easels and paper pads consists of a series of stumps with metal cradles on the sides that boards slide into. Vis-à-vis wet erase markers Skilled volunteers for demolition of old cabins Participants must work together to get their team across the obstacle by deciding Summer Program: Someone with video/editing skills to where the boards fit and by coming up with a plan for moving the boards and make promo video(s) Pony and Seed beads themselves from start to finish. The element is an exciting addition to the teambuilding Embroidery floss/Friendship bracelet Help to maintain flower beds and string Amphitheater program at Lutherlyn. New washable markers Assistants for therapeutic riding Finally, as we look forward to 2019 we are ready to New colored pencils lessons give our existing low challenge course elements a Paint brushes Help clearing hiking and riding trails Construction paper Event volunteers facelift to keep them working in top shape for years to Colored tissue paper General maintenance help come. If anyone has any interest in volunteering to Glue sticks General cleaning help help work on an adventure specific project, please New fishing rods – kid friendly (10) General office help don’t hesitate to contact [email protected]. New jar candles Nurses to help for a week in the summer or on Sundays in the In anticipation of another awesome summer, summer during check-in Tim Bock, Adventure Program Director 4
TrinityTrinity PinesPines ClubClub Gifts made between 1-1-2017 and 12-31-2017
George Fritz Janet Lyons Charles & C. Louise Fair Delwin & Alicia Brockett 2017 Trinity Pines Club Bill & Elaine Fugate Mark & Betsy Martin Harry & Pauline Faucett Rev. Steve Broome & Rev. Ann Schmid Kathy & Paul Gaberson John & Pamela McMullan Barbara & George Flanders Ralph & Doris Brown Shaulis Society ($10,000 Lifetime) Heather & Sam Goncz Wendy Mendenhall John & Susan Frantz Mary & Bill Buchanan Ray & Lucille Allen Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chicora Colleen & Paul Mertens Richard & Lynda Freed John & Susan Burger Lynn & Nancy Alstadt Andy & Amy Huffman Erica Miller Dana Frishkorn Butler County Amateur Radio Association Craig & Dawn Andersson Natalie & Robert McCloskey Edward Miller, Jr. & Pam Miller Rachelle & Larry Fritz Butler Tires for Less Gordie & Polly Bachman Signe Mitchell Marlin Morris & Naomi Horchak-Morris Rev. Martin Galbraith & Rev. Margarethe Lawrence & Susan Camberg Kathy & Brian Bacik Luann Nollinger Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Church Galbraith-Cordes Alice Camp Frank & Mary Baker Peter Nordby & Lisa Hildenbrand Barbara Nakles Tim George Elizabeth Charters Donald & JoAnne Bauman Marilyn & Peter Rander Nativity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Al & Edwina Gesler Karin & Scott Cheslar George & Sheila Beck Deb & Jeff Roberts Allison Park Suzanne Girard & John Swartz Tia Chirico-Janicki George Bennitt & Debby Miller-Bennitt Theresa & Theodore Schroeder Keith & Paulette Nelson Dorothy Goncz Stan & Nancy Cieslak Rev. Kirk Bish John & Dorothy Slomer NexTier Bank Hagan Business Machines of Butler Wylda Cole Timothy Bish Esq. Jeane Smart NWPA WELCA John Hall Beverly Cowen W. Gerald & Carolyn Blaney St. John's Lutheran Church Pearl Parnell John & Stephanie Harman Creedy Family Rev. Judith Boal St. Paul's of Darlington Penn-Zion Lutheran Parish, Harrison City John & Anne Harmon Bonnie & Joseph Defilippi Leslie Boehmer & Kirk Morrison Henry Suhr, Jr. & Beverly Suhr Gwilym & Kathleen Price Jeff & Sandy Heasley Adele Dengel Evelyn Booth Bob & Mary Thompson Melissa & Roger Ray Hebron Lutheran Church, Leechburg Robert & Leslie Devore Jeff & Kathy Bost Thrivent Choice Paul & Carolyn Rizza Robert & Wendy Hedegore William & Becky Devore Robert & Courtney Bost Jason & Tanya Tost Deborah Ross Clair & Pearl Held William Dietrich, Jr. & Patricia Dietrich Jack & Joan Brown Walter & Janet Treser Martin & Sarah Roth John & Leigh Ann Hertzog Daniel & Terry Dillman Harry Burns & Patricia Wirth Thomas & Sandra Usher Bill & Laurie Schmidt Frank & Lois Hodas District Attorney Richard Goldinger James & Rosemary Clarke Ronald & Janet Werhnyak John & Irene Sigler Jack Hohbach James & Ronna Drennen Roger Claypoole XTO Energy Inc. James & Rebecca Slade Richard Holt Richard & Beverly Dreves Terrance Clever David & Katherine Young Donald & Illene Smith Philip Howard Rev. James Engel Ron & Laura Coombs William & Kristen Snyder Joe & Janet Janukites John F. Erikson James & Jeanette Cunningham Diamond Circle: $1,000 to $2,499 St. John Lutheran Church, Mars Nancy & John Jeffries Jonathon & Judith Erlen Paul & Cindy Curran Lucille Allen St. John's Lutheran Church, Kittanning Dwight Jenson Ashlee Erny Wetauna Cypher Lynn & Nancy Alstadt St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, Hunker Richard & Ann Kessel ESS Nextier Insurance Group Merab Drennen Ken & Joyce Bash St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Scottdale Mark Kijowski & Kristen Anderson Richard Evans Rev. Herb & Andrea Dubler Rev. Joel & Mindy Benson Mark & Melissa Steiner Cindy & Jeff Knoll Paul & Elizabeth Fackler Dick & Violet Dunmyre Amanda & Ty Best Rev. Roger & Gwendolyn Steiner Eric & Kathryn Kofmehl Elizabeth & Joseph Fetters Joel & Heather Eidbo Timothy Bish Katrina Steingrabe Jake & Julie Kosker DeWayne & Diana Filges Ronald Eslinger Jeff & Kathy Bost Jeremy & Rebeccah Tost Paul & Patricia Lebanik First National Bank of Pennsylvania Ted & Donna Fairley Brighton Heights Lutheran Church Dave Williams Kristie Linden Richard & Barbara Flock Joan Ferraro Monica Broecker Kathryn Wood Melissa & Walter Linn Foster Pools Roger & Catherine Fischer Butler Garden Club James Workman, Jr. & Cynthia Workman Marian & James Linton M. Darlene Frederickson Charles & Patricia Flach Roger Claypoole Zion Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh Little Foot LLC Jack & Judy C. Freed Charles & Gretchen Fleischer Terrance Clever Lung & Wellness Centers of Western Aidan Fry Curtis & Sally Frank Peter & Ginger Courtney Level 3: $300 to $499 Pennsylvania Becky & Theodore Fry George Fritz Paul & Cindy Curran AmazonSmile Foundation Luther Memorial Church, Erie Angela Galbraith Charles & Johanna Fuellgraf Diehl Toyota of Butler Virginia Arnold Marburger Farm Dairy Beck Galbraith Kathy & Paul Gaberson James Donnell David & Bonita Bachman Donald May Todd A. & Shayne M. Garcia-Bish Heather & Sam Goncz Ryan & Amy Ebner Mont & Eileen Bowser Fran Mazur Gargiulo Landscape Rev. Randal & Tracy Gullickson Joel & Heather Eidbo Rev. William Brewer, Jr. & Joy Brewer Marjorie McMullan Susan & Roger Garrett Nancy Headrick Ronald Eslinger Dawn Brut Virginia McMullan Shannon & Keith Glenn Jeff & Sandy Heasley Faith Lutheran Church Edward & Shirley Brut Dean & Moira Meixner Glen & Donna Gold Theodore & Gloria Hines Rev. Randal & Tracy Gullickson Burnell Carlson Julie & Rorik Melberg Madaline Golec Andy & Amy Huffman Shelley & Charles Guthoerl Ron & Laura Coombs Charles Merroth Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Dusty & Kolette Johnson John Helinski Jr & Donna Helinski James & Jeanette Cunningham Fred & Marilyn Michael Mount Pleasant Gregory & Ellen Jordan Rev. James & Carolyn Higgins Rev. James & Jane Dollhopf David Miller Good Shepherd Montessori Center, Mars Kirk & Cynthia Klingensmith Mary Ann Hoovler Andrea Dunmyre Virginia & Richard Moyta Roger & Donna Graf Kenneth & Susan Laber Dusty & Kolette Johnson English Evangelical Lutheran Church, Zelienople James & Susan Neal Stacey & Steven Graf Robert & Terri Landers Lorraine Kesterson Mischele & Andre Francois New Hope Lutheran Church, Freedom Richard & Carolyn Graff Mario & Susan Lanna Kirk & Cynthia Klingensmith Charles & Johanna Fuellgraf Rev. Robert & Suzanne Newpher Dale & Donna Graham Francis & Darlene Laube Rev. J. Kenneth & Susan T. Laber Heath & Jessica Gamache Sally Jo Patton Dana & Kevin Hadley John & Betty Sue Lehew Mario & Susan Lanna Grace at Calvary Lutheran Church, Butler James & Denise Pearson Larry & Myrna Hamil Gary & Penny Lester Kay Marie Lavorini Grace Lutheran Church, Manorville Jeffrey L. & Holly Pelusi Ginny & Doug Hammer Roger & Martha D. Luppold Donald & Saundra McCoid Rick & Mary Hetrick Anne Pierotti William & Norma Jean Hansmann W. Pete & Amy MacKay Patricia McKee Geir Hundal Keith & Audrey Alice Pipes Rev. Meredith Harber Patrick & Elma Maier Laura Miller Susan Irons Linda Raschiatore Glenn & Barbara Harris Bishop Emeritus Donald & Saundra Marianne Miller Ted & Janet Kaltwasser Tom & Sandy Rea Laura Hazelton McCoid LaVerne & J. Alan Mochnick William Keller Cynthia & James Richburg Walter Hebda, Jr. & Diana Hebda Natalie & Robert McCloskey Rev. Larry & Deborah Mort Harold & Doris Laderer Elizabeth & Wayne Rideout Doris Herceg Colleen & Rick McWilliams Megan & Erik Orient John & Betty Sue Lehew Ed Roehling Darlene Hessong Wendy Mendenhall Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Erie William Lenz Eric & Missy Roehling Carl & Donna Heyne Marianne Miller James & Jennifer Robertson Gary & Penny Lester Abigail Scanga Kevin Hice & Sara Bell Edward Miller, Jr. & Pam Miller Victor Rossi Elma Maier George Schein Arnold & Gail Holm Signe Mitchell Tom & Sandy Rossman Paul & Mona Miller Rev. Tony & Rev. Tricia Schneck John & Jacquelyn Holmberg Rev. Larry & Deborah Mort John Scheafnocker Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh Stephen Spargo Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Irwin Barbara Nakles John Schlotter & Heidi Morris George & Janice Rasmussen John Spidalette Holy Trinity Memorial Lutheran Church, Peter Nordby & Lisa Hildenbrand Kathleen Schubert Brenda & David Ritterpusch St. Matthias Lutheran Church Catasauqua Pearl Parnell Judith Seanor Melanie & Timothy Roberts Karl & Karen Stanford Hope Lutheran Church, Beaver Gwil & Kathy Price St. Peters Evangelical Lutheran Church, Christine M. Schall Jaakko & Sandra Suni Hope Lutheran Church Women, Homer City Bruce & Cathy Randolph Uniontown Holly Schubert Seth & Lydia Tost Clark Howell & Melinda McClure-Howell Deb & Jeff Roberts St. Peter's Lutheran Church, North East Justin Seanor Charles Treser Elizabeth & Kurt Jackline Ed & Elaine Roehling C. Reed & Ruth Lee Trimble Richard & Eva Shearer Anna K. Trettel Kurt Johanknecht Deborah Ross Trinity Lutheran Church, Butler Margaret & Charles Skalos Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Latrobe Jill & James Johnson Tom & Sandy Rossman Matt & Jennie Wheeler Maryellen Smith Trinity Lutheran Church Gene & Karen Jones Keith Runge Gloria & Daniel Yount Robert & Bonnie Softcheck Ruth Ann Tully Patrick Jungling John Schlotter & Heidi Morris St. John's Lutheran Church, Perrysville P. Kirk Van Horn & Erin Hill-Van Horn Charles & Sharon Kaltwasser Judi Seanor Gold Circle: $500 to $999 Trudy & Vaughn Taylor Robert Wagner Eric & Margaret Karell Rob & Amelia Shillingsburg William S. & Youxu Cai Tjader Linda Wellner Nate Keffer Robert & Emma Shock Mark & Kathy Armstrong Frank & Miriam Baker Maria Von Mickwitz Gary & Susan Whitling Jane Kennedy John & Dorothy Slomer Charles Warren & Wanda Spangler-Warren Marsha & Jim Williams Katie Kerr Richard & Barbara Snyder John & Kathy Bangor Michael & Jacqueline Barber Emily Weimer Reynolds & Joyce Wingard Mary Whaler & Jay Kiefer Henry & Beverly Suhr Woodland Quilters Robert & Nancy Wright Ruth & James Kiefer Jane Ann Suran Robert & Joan Belles Tim & Holly Bock Patricia Wuenstel Lynn Kinney Gerald & Cheryl Thomas Dottie & James Zaffuto Level 1: $100 to $199 Christpher Klapper Walt & Janet Treser Trudi & Charles Booth Christopher Brant & Kristin Drennen Brant Zion Lutheran Church, Harmony Kenneth & Rita Aber Paul & Mary Ann Kowalik Anna K. Trettel Cathy Adams, MD James Kowalsky & Donna Thompson C. Reed & Ruth Lee Trimble Joan Brown John & Mary Jo Burglund Level 2: $200 to $299 Agr International, Inc. Tina & Scott Kramer Thomas & Sandra Usher Abigail Anderson Donald & June Kudas Linda Wellner Jonathan & Ellen Caulkins James & Christine Antis Grace Clarke Donald & Barbara Baker Linda Anderson Nancy & Allen Kukovich David Williams Renee V. Anderson Ralph & Carol Kusserow Rev. Bill & Stephanie Cox Kristopher & Sharon Barnes James & Vicki Daley Kim & Greg Becker Chris & Carla Babcock Lamb of God Lutheran Church, Erie Director’s Circle: $2,500 + Rebecca Davis Fred Bennitt Joe & Andrea Bachovchin Serafina Lanna Anonymous Donors John Doman Carolyn Blaney Helena & Clyde Baker Alan & Roseann Lee Gordon & Polly Bachman Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Export Karen Block David & Karen Bauer David Lendt Kathy & Brian Bacik First English Lutheran Church, Punxsutawney Nelson & Dolores Bormann Douglas Bauer John & Deanna Leuenberger Frank & Mary Baker First Lutheran Church, Rural Valley Jean Bost Donald & M. JoAnne Bauman Jon Lyons George & Sheila Beck Charles & Gretchen Fleischer Rev. Andrew Carlsson Susan & Richard Beard Clarence Madison Rev. Kirk Bish Carol Geyer Geraldine Cashdollar Andrew & Jane Ann Beardsley Brianne & Jonathan Major Evelyn Booth Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Janet Cauley Lynn Beck Donna Malanowski Christ Lutheran Church, Duquesne Monongahela Lynn Chiado Thomas & Judy Beecher Cheri Manzinger James & Rosemary Clarke Barbara & David Hall Christ's Lutheran Church, Murrysville Brian & Mary Bennett Jennifer & Mark Marnich Concordia Lutheran Ministries Rev. Scott Hall Ivan & Jocelyn Cilik Mara Benson Sister Caritas Marshall & Zita Como Merab Drennen Rev. Don & Peggy Hayn Matthew & Jeannette Claus Didier & Heidi Besters L. Lea Marshall Richard & Violet Dunmyre Heart Hill Farms Inc Wetauna Cypher Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sheffield Dean & Susan Matanin Ted & Donna Fairley Mike & Wilma Johnson John & Virginia Denk Bethany Lutheran Church, Bethel Park Linda & Kevin Mathias Faith Lutheran Church, Venus Rev. Jocelyn Johnston Cathy Dennis Bethesda Lutheran Church, Lower Burrell Peter May & Sally Smeltzer-May Joan Ferraro Ronald & Joyce Kilgore Jim & Sue Dickson Michael & Susan Bieltz Robert & Charlotte McCabe First Lutheran Church, Greensburg L. Clair & Carroll Klingensmith Donna Douglas Audrey & Gregory Bisignani Carol McCurdy Charles & Patricia Flach Joyce & Gary Kottner Andrea Dubler Colin Blackburn Bryan & Eva McFarland Carl Follmer Bishop Kurt & Pamela Kusserow Elaine & Peter Egan Carole Bowser Rev. Jill McGregor Curtis & Sally Frank Harry Laube Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh Vivian & Samuel Bowser Thomas McVicker 5
InIn HonorHonor Of...Of... InIn MemoryMemory Of...Of...
Dorothy McWilliams Diane Carson Michelle Steiner Jean & Elmer Bentz Stephanie Steininger Eslinger William & Darla Mechling Scott & Karen Cheslar Stephen & Lisa Thelin by Mark & Kathy Armstrong by Merab Drennen George & Rose Mellors Peter Cholock Jason & Tanya Tost Eric Bish by Ronald Eslinger Donald & Patti Melpolder Carol Chonoska Seth Tost by St. John's Lutheran Church, Kittanning Rev. & Mrs. Robert Sternat Meridian Station Gift Shop Joann Chonoska Walt Tresser Homer & Dorothy Bollen by John & Betty Lehew Edward & Linda Mertz Tricia Christman Meredith Trimble by Joyce Kottner Tom & Augusta Vezzetti Robert & Judith Michael Cathleen Coudriet Maria Von Mickwitz Dave Brown by Del & Alicia Brockett Janet Miller Kevin Crawford David Williams by The Brown Family Dale William Walters Monteverde's Inc Richard Davis Sr J. F. Wineman Igor Cilik by LuAnn & Tim Wheeler Rev. Blair & Fay Morgan Mary Davison Reynolds Wingard by Ivan Cilik Robert Wellner Charles & Denise Morrison Jacob Defassio David Wingerd Jane B. Clarke by Dr. Linda Wellner Daniel & Susan Morrow Richard DeRing Robert & Nancy Wright by Curtis & Sally Frank Tom Wellner Donald Muenchow Patricia Dietrich Darlene Wyland A. Dale Clarke by Dr. Linda Wellner Bill & Kathleen Murray Robert Eicher Catherine Yeager by Curtis & Sally Frank Anya Werhnyak Robin & Jeremy Musher Billy Ellis Dorothy Zaffuto Barbara L Claypoole by Janet Werhnyak Jack & Janet Muzzana Curtis Eshelman Randall Zeigler by Roger Claypoole David Worthy Myfunctionfirst Alternative Health Ted & Donna Fairley Ray Covert by June & Donald Kudas Solutions, LLC Alan Falkosky Honorarium Gifts by David & Robin Brown by Donald Kudas Randall & Cheryl Neish Elisabeth Fetters by Doug & Donna DeWard Loved Ones Earl Nollinger Denise Flaherty from 11/01/2017 – 10/31/2018 by Dick & Vie Dunmyre by Dorothy Goncz OASIS Open Erica Flanders Christine Adams by Bud & Mary Gerber David & Sally Oberdick Chuck & Gretchen Fleischer by Cathleen Adams by Chuck & Mary Lee Tompkins Our sincerest apologies if Ohio Valley Chapter 22 SPA Andre Francois Rev. Jonathan C. Adams Rev. Herb Dubler John & Charlene Ott John Frantz by Joshua Adams by Ronald & Karen Creedy we omitted your name. Paragon Legal Inc. Allen Fuchs S. Hunter Best Family by Edward & Carole Lee Demmy Patricia & David Paraska Paul Gaberson by Curtis & Sally Frank by Keith & Shannon Glenn Please notify Lutherlyn of Parkers Appliance Betty Gabriel Jack Best, Future Camper Mary & Ed Eller Carolind Parson & Joelind Shirk Heath Gamache by Josh Schaldenbrand by Schrimper Family any omissions or errors. Diane Penfield Hankowsky & Scott Penfield Nora Gelnett Tim & Holly Bock Rev. Paul Eugene Fauth Chris Piatt Carlin Gerba by Jeff & Kathy Bost by David Fauth Pitchford Diversified, Inc. Randal Girdwood Stephanie Bost Alice Filges Elizabeth Polanzke Dorothy Goncz by Jeff & Kathy Bost by DeWayne Filges Charles & Linda Potter Samuel Goncz Dr. Mark A Carlsson Wilma Follmer Nancy & John Powell Clarence & Bernice Gourley by Andrew Carlsson by Carl Follmer Colleen Prenovitz Karen Grosclaude James & Rosemary Clarke Carol Folwell Lutherlyn promises to Leila Protzman Randy & Tracy Gullickson by Curtis & Sally Frank by Kathleen Schubert never turn a child away Alexandra Pursglove Kara, Esther, & Christina Haberberger Matt Clarke Pamela Fox Liana Reynolds William Hansmann by Curtis & Sally Frank by Merab Drennen from summer camp Duane & Mary Ann Richards Sandra Harber Rev. Jeff Ewing Rev. Dr. James N. Frank Justin Rickert Patricia Hauser by Jim & Denise Pearson by Curtis & Sally Frank for financial reasons. Liam Riddle Rev Robert & Arleen Hawk Benjamin Flanders Edith W. Frank Allen & Karen Riethmiller Walter Hebda by Barbara & George Flanders by Curtis & Sally Frank Robert & Ardyce Rigg Robert & Wendy Hedegore Elizabeth Flanders Pat Freed Lutherlyn can keep this Erica Ritenour Andrew Held by Barbara & George Flanders by John & Judy Freed Ethan Ritenour John Helinski Jr Erica Flanders Su Rote Gergerich promise thanks to the Luke Robertson Jack Hohbach by Barbara & George Flanders by Deborah Ross Rock Ann Haven Jacquelyn Holmberg Beck Galbraith Michael D Helinski many individuals, Deborah & Edward Roginski Charen Housley by Rev. Susan Irons by Gary & Deborah Scheib families, congregations, Anthony Ruffolo Margaret Hrabovsky Sara Goncz Scott Henjum Tammy & James Scanga Scott Hyde by Rev. Susan Irons by John & Nancy Jeffries foundations, and Linda Schaeffer Joseph & Janet Janukites Rev. Meredith Harber Bob & Mary Claire Hileman Amanda Schaub John & Nancy Jeffries by Colleen Montgomery by Pat & Don Melpolder businesses who support Erin Schmidt William Jones by Charlotte & Wayne Epley Kelly Christen Jones Nancy Schreiber Philip & Jean Joyce John Jeffries by Gene & Karen Jones camp with prayers, Richard & Norma Schwab Thomas Jungling by Joan Ferraro Virginia Jones participation, volunteering, Walter & Martha Senchesen Charles L Kaltwasser Katie Kerr by Carl Jones Sam Sesti Charles T Kaltwasser by Renee Calder Charlotte Krause and financial gifts. Jeff & Brenda Shearer Deborah Kaltwasser Mort Marilyn Ludwig's 76th Birthday by Janet Werhnyak Joseph Shellenbarger Linda Kelley by Dr. Thomas Ludwig Pastor David Laakso Donald & Sonja Shoup Lorraine Kesterson William Luft by Carolyn & Ed Fialkowski In addition to providing Norann & James Shuey Helen Kleckner by John Frantz Harrison Grant Lapen Marilyn Smail Joyce Kottner Rev. Jerry & Ann O'Neill by Gloria & Dan Yount vitally important Joanne Smith Rev James Laber by Linda Schaeffer John & Hazel Lehew Jean Soergel Anna-Marie Labowski The Price Family by John & Betty Lehew camperships, this support Donna Spinetti Thomas & Lois Labowski by James & Ruth Ann Pastorius Rev. Patrick Maier Marie & Donald Spohn Brian & Mary Lauffer Rev. Julie Reuning-Scherer by Sally Smeltzer May also plays a part in St. John Lutheran Church Women, Carnegie Anthony Leshinskie by Meredith & Ryan Trimble Mary B. May providing safe, engaging St. John's Lutheran Church, New Castle Gary Lesser Deb Roberts by Donald May St. John's Lutheran Church, Connoquenessing Priscilla Lester by Gordon & Pauline Bachman Kenneth R & Mary B May activities and spaces our Brenda & Brian States Dorothy Lindner by Ed & Shirley Brut by Donald May Bill Sweeney Russell Livingston by Trudy Taylor Ada Mae McGregor campers and guests enjoy Ryan & Meredith Trimble Mandy Loughner Deb Roberts' Installation as by Mira L Merritt throughout the year. Hannah Trivilino William Luft Executive Director Gordon Meixner Mary Beth & Alan Trivilino Janet Lyons by Dick & Vie Dunmyre by Dean & Moira Meixner Virginia Trygstad Carly Maceil by Kristie Linden Ed & Helen Miller James Jr. & Linda Ulrich Donna Malanowski by Bri & Jon Major by William & Norma Hansmann Thank you to each Wallace Utley Beth McAfoose by Blair & Fay Morgan Floyd Miller Susan & Josef Vanek Patricia McCollough by Tammy & James Scanga by Erica Miller and every donor Erika VanSickel Carol McDowell by The Woodland Quilters "Grandpap" George Miller Ruth Vasey Howard McIlvried III Mark Steiner by Janet Miller and volunteer Carmen & JoEllen Vergari Jennifer McIntire by Michelle Steiner Wil Morrow Laura Lebanik Vita Sean McIntyre Joyce Steiner's 90th Birthday by Daniel & Susan Morrow for being part Vogel Disposal Service, Inc. Patricia McKee by Melissa & Mark Steiner Herman Nelson Jean & Philip Wanchick Linda McRae Jonathan Steiner's Birthday by Dr. Linda Wellner of the community WELCA Zion Lutheran Church, Mayport Richard & Colleen McWilliams by Melissa & Mark Steiner Mary Ann Nicotra Paul Wheeler Marilyn Michael Walt Treser, for Father's Day by Nancy & John Jeffries that makes Ron & Stacey Winfield Andrea Miller by Meredith & Ryan Trimble Hans Paa WELCA Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Blair & Fay Morgan Reed Trimble, for Father's Day by Jason & Tanya Tost Lutherlyn possible! Monaca Heidi Morris & John Schlotter by Meredith & Ryan Trimble Eleanor Petsinger Don & Carolyn Worley Bruce Murphy Sharon Wach by Dr. Linda Wellner John Yedlowski Thomas & Julie Myers by John Frantz John Sally Althea Yenchak Glenda Naas Marian Walters by John & Judy Freed Emily Yothers Helen Newmyer by Cindy Karr Helen Schratz James Young, Jr. & Mary Kay Young Luann Nollinger LuAnn Wheeler by Ruth & Rick Boyle Randy J. & Miriam R. Youngquist-Thurow Crystal Palmer by Matt Wheeler Bill Schrimper Jacob Zaffuto Ronald & Barbara Palmer Robert Wilson Family by Lynn Schrimper William Zundel Rev. James Parsh by Curtis & Sally Frank by Schrimper Family Save the Date: Linda Penfield Our Grandchildren by His Family Thrivent/United Way James Pepka by Bishop Emeritus & Mrs. Donald McCoid Rev. Samuel & Gracia Shaulis Anonymous Donors (5) Gary Rankin Our 40th Wedding Anniversary by John & Betty Lehew Debra Adams Vivien Reel by Jim & Dottie Zaffuto Rev. Samuel Shaulis Ray & Lucille Allen Mary Richards by John & Betty Lehew The 2019 Linda Armstrong Rev Robert Rigg Memoriam Gifts by Lois R Pogyor Dennis Atkin Ruth Ritts Dorothy Shaulis Trinity Pines Jocelyn Barton Robert & Sharon Roemer from 11/01/2017 – 10/31/2018 by John & Betty Lehew Larry & Nan Barton Tom & Sandy Rossman Vernon Adams The Shaulis Family Chelsea Benson Timothy & Lori Russell by Doris Adams by John & Betty Sue Lehew Club Banquet Matthew Benson David Saylor by Michael & Suzanne Dominick Carl Smail Donna Blumer Christine Schall by John & Carol Hahn by Marilyn Smail Richard Bolstad Rev Robert Schlotter by Lynn Mance John K. Smith is on Evelyn Booth John Schlotter by Benscreek Lutheran Church by Leslie Easler Michelle Borst Anita Schunn Ray Allen William J. Smith Jeffrey Bost Judy Seanor by Lucille Allen by Merab Drennen June 9, 2019. Joshua Bow Justin Seanor Matthew Ammon Deb Steiner Norma Bruner Dale Sechrist by Joyce Kottner by Doric Herceg, Noah & Rachel Ed & Shirley Brut Gerald & Patricia Shanor Sally Bachovchin-Janocko by Doris Herceg Martha Burkett Anthony Simonetti by Becky Beck Rev. Dr. Russell F Steininger (Anyone who participated in Jerry Cable Marily Smail Anna Bainbridge by Merab Drennen Susan Camberg Gretchen Smith by Scott Peters Ruth Steininger giving $200 or more in 2018 Burnell Carlson Roger Spencer Jean & Elmer Bentz by Merab Drennen will be invited to attend the Trin- Roger Carlson Ronald & Mary Spoonhoward by Kathy Armstrong Richard Carr Mark Steiner ity Pines Club Banquet.)
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RetreatsRetreats && EventsEvents SEEKING VOLUNTEERS 2019 Calendar Do you enjoy yard work or basic home repair projects? Are you looking for a reason to spend more time outdoors? Would you like to make an impact on your community while meeting new people? January With a large site and a relatively small year-round staff, we can ALWAYS use extra help for projects 15-20—Quilting/Crafting Retreat around camp. In a similar way to the Woodland Quilters, who come to camp on most Tuesdays to work on 25-27—Winter Retreat (4-12 grade) items for the quilt show and auction, a group of regular volunteers coming to camp weekly, bi-weekly, or 26—Blacksmithing Class monthly, could make a huge difference for the thousands of visitors who come to camp each year. We are hoping to find a group of people who would work on a variety of common indoor and outdoor February tasks. Examples include: trimming grass around buildings or fence lines, splitting firewood, trimming 2—Saturday Safari—Night Hike branches away from trails and fences, tidying up flower beds, spreading mulch, painting walls and fences, and pressure washing decks and other surfaces. Lutherlyn will provide the necessary tools, materials, and March instruction. Much like the Woodland Quilters, we believe that, while this group will accomplish a lot for 2—Saturday Safari—Maple Sugaring Lutherlyn, this is a great opportunity for fellowship and friendships for those who participate. 19-24—Quilting/Crafting Retreat Based on interest, we anticipate meeting on a specific weekday from early spring until autumn, likely 23—Blacksmithing Class occurring mid-week so our maintenance staff can prepare for or complete projects without affecting their ability to accommodate incoming or departing groups. April If you are interested in being a part of this regular volunteer group at Lutherlyn, please let us know by 26-28—YouthFest (Jr. High & Sr. High) contacting the Development Office at 724-865-2161 or by email at [email protected]. 27—Work Day 27—Blacksmithing Class
TAKE THE PLUNGE! May On the chilly morning of December 1st we held our 3rd annual Plunge! This fundraising event involves a 11—Fun Run group of brave individuals (affectionately known as “plungers”) running, jumping, and sliding into the lake on 11—CAMP BLAST!!! the first Saturday morning in December after obtaining sponsorships from their friends, families, churches, and coworkers. It includes spectators who make s’mores and drink hot chocolate around a campfire while June volunteers take the plunge. After the event, everyone enjoys lunch in the Dining Hall. 2-14—Summer Staff Training 7-9—Grown-Up Camp Throughout the fall each of our “plungers” gathered sponsorships from $5 to $2,000 from their 9—Trinity Pines Club Banquet communities, and thanks to all their hard work, together they raised more than $10,000 for Lutherlyn’s 16—SUMMER CAMP BEGINS! Annual Fund! Amanda Zelnis (from 2018’s summer staff), with the help of Pastor Scott Hall, friends at Nativity Evangelical Lutheran Church, and her family, raised the most funds and earned the highly esteemed July title of Queen Plunger, earning her the honor of carrying the golden plunger! Though the Plunge has already 1-31—SUMMER CAMP CONTINUES! taken place, you can still warm the hearts of our Plungers by making a gift to support their icy adventure at www.lutherlyn.com/plungeme. August We would love to have more “plungers” than ever next year and we 2—Last day of Summer Camp have already started recruiting for 2019! If you’re willing to take the 23-25—Grown-Up Camp plunge to help support Lutherlyn and our campers please contact the Development Office at 724-865-2161; we can answer any questions September you may have and, if you’re bold enough to brave the cold, sign you 4-8—Quilting/Crafting Retreat up for 2019’s Plunge, which will take place on the morning of 7—Blacksmithing Class Saturday, December 7th, 2019. 14—Saturday Safari—Amphibians
October THE “FATHERS AND SONS RETREAT” IS NOT WELCOME BACK KATIE! 19—Blacksmithing Class SCHEDULED FOR 2019 BUT WILL 25-27—Family Getaway Weekend We are happy to welcome Katie McNeal back 26—Family Halloween Fun Day RETURN IN FEBRUARY OF 2020. MORE to Lutherlyn! Katie was a camper and then served DETAILS COMING SOON! on Summer staff in 2008-2013. In the few years November since Katie was on summer staff she attended 2—Saturday Safari—Archeology BAKER CHAPEL DEDICATION Yale Divinity School, served as Director of Youth 19-24—Quilting/Crafting Retreat In last year’s newsletter we announced that the and Family Ministries at a church in Connecticut, 23—Blacksmithing Class interior of Baker Chapel was nearly complete and it had worked as a kickboxing instructor and academic already been used for worship during summer camp and tutor, and performed on America’s Got Talent December (check out Three Penny Orchestra on YouTube). 6-8—Advent Retreat for Deb’s installation. 7—The Plunge After the finishing touches were completed, there In October, Katie returned to Lutherlyn to serve as the Office Manager/Registrar. 7—Family Advent Festival remained just one final detail to discuss for the chapel; 7—Advent Dinner & Worship (for all) the dedication. On May 28th, Frank and Mary Baker, joined by some of their friends and family, gathered Visit www.lutherlyn.com/2019 for together for a worship and dedication service in Baker complete schedules, details and Chapel, followed by a picnic. registration information. We are so grateful for the Baker’s generosity, and for the overwhelming support and patience they showed while we worked to complete this amazing addition to Want to bring your Lutherlyn. Thank you to all the donors and volunteers WELCOME LISA! own group to camp? who helped make this dream a reality, we appreciate Lisa Blackburn became the Food Service your support! We are so happy to have this beautiful Lutherlyn hosts retreat groups of all space to meet, reflect, and worship. Manager in August. Lisa has been working as a cook at Lutherlyn for the past 3 years and was an types throughout the year (with the obvious choice for a promotion to Food Service exception of during summer camp). Manager when Chef Nick left in August. Lisa Please give us a call to talk about all was a camper as a child and served on summer of the ways that you and your group staff, then her children attended camp and her son can use camp’s facilities. served on summer staff. Lisa has been providing excellent meals to our campers and guests and we are so happy to have her serving in this way. Thanks for the great food Lisa! 7
LutherlynLutherlyn EnvironmentalEnvironmental EducationEducation ProgramProgram LEEP CONTINUES TO GROW “COME TO LUTHERLYN” After serving more students than ever in 2017, we thought that 2018 may not be quite as “Come to Lutherlyn!” was the message that church busy. We were wrong! We added three new overnight schools in 2018 and eleven new provided us one spring in the mid-80’s, so that year we took day schools. In total, 6,194 students were accepted, challenged, and sent by the our eldest child to camp. When we heard the excitement as he Lutherlyn Environmental Education Program in 2018. related his experiences, and discovered that the summer’s focus was the joy of Christ in the worth and unique gifts of NEW PRAYER PATH AT LUTHERLYN each camper, we knew that this was a great place. In summer, Lutherlyn is a kid place. No camper is ignored, neglected or Slow down. Let your mind slow down. Let your mistreated. Here everyone is accepted. For some, this may be feet follow the path in front of you. Let the path quite a life-changing event. show you where to go. When your mind is still, you Lutherlyn was a place that led both of our children, and can become aware of God’s presence, of God’s now our grandchildren, to experience God-given programs peace. You can enter into prayer. from Classic to Horse Camp to the challenges of Adventurers. Inspired by prayer labyrinths, stations of the It became a place that calls us to become Camp Grandparents cross, and other outdoor prayer paths, Lutherlyn’s for a week each summer. Here we see firsthand why Camp newest trail offers this kind of experience to guests. Lutherlyn is a great place. It’s the people. From carefully The short winding trail, lined with sticks and selected counselors, to maintenance and kitchen staff, logs, leaves the Chapel Hill Trail (between Chapel volunteer nurses, to office workers and the director, everyone Hill and Upper Lake) and loops through the shines with the love of God. Everyone wants to spread His evergreen trees, with seven marked prayer stations word. Campers quickly discover feelings of self-worth. No and two gathering spots with log seats. one is invisible here. For us, our own church family expanded The genesis of the trail began with YouthFest, the annual youth event of the to include those here. And that sense of belonging that Northwest and Southwest PA synods of the ELCA. In April 2018, about 80 youth in campers encounter? It is felt by us, too. grades 7-12 from churches all over the two synods came In our own life, retirement brought changes that allowed us together at Lutherlyn for a weekend of worship, bible to become more involved in camp. For Patti, part-time study, fun, and service. YouthFest participants lived out employment in the Environmental Education Center fulfilled retreat themes of service and community by sharing in a two personal goals—making time for exercise and working service project that has already made a lasting impact on again with children. At Lutherlyn, a renewal of the sense of the community of Lutherlyn. Groups of students spent wonder came from observing God’s gifts through children’s an afternoon clearing the path, lining the edges of the eyes. It was first graders who spied the baby raccoons peering path with sticks and logs, and scouting locations and at us from their hole near the tree top. Here is where joy is ideas for prayer stations. found in the actions of preschoolers tramping through newly Later in June, confirmation campers added to the trail fallen snow or in youngsters tapping sugar maple trees and by moving logs into place to provide seating in sampling the sap straight from its source. Joy and wonder keep gathering spaces for reflection. One area with log seats, us returning. in a clearing in the center of the trail, is just the right size for a small group to gather Our volunteer roles are varied. Both of us have been Camp together for reflection, prayer, or conversation – ideal for summer camp cabin groups Ambassadors, enticing others to camp. This led to a monthly, and other small groups. Two more log seats are placed alongside a small spring and monetary commitment that values and supports camperships stream. for children whose families cannot afford this experience. As Prayer station markers and a welcome box members of the Trinity Pines Club, our goal is to make certain completed the finishing touches. The welcome that no one misses the opportunity to attend summer camp due box holds suggestions on how to use the prayer to lack of funds. Lutherlyn’s spring work days always need path, as well as a prayer path register which volunteer laborers. From children to us “old folks,” there are allows participants to share their experience with jobs for all. The initiative to upgrade facilities also requires visitors who come after them. money and workers. Charlie has spent many hours staining, Even before its completion, summer campers and building, roofing, mowing, and more assisting with these other visitors were enjoying the peace and tasks. As a board member, he also works with others to shape prayerful spirit of the prayer path. We have the future and make programs possible. Work at Lutherlyn can already heard many people relate that their experiences at the prayer path have been very be fun, intense at times, but always rewarding. meaningful and powerful. We hope the creation of this trail will continue to give people Like most of our churches, Lutherlyn is continually the opportunity for meaningful experiences of prayer in the midst of God’s creation. challenged to fund its marvelous mission. How many of our campers have returned to be counselors? How many of those UNIVERSAL ACCESS TRAIL have found their spouse here? How many church leaders have fond memories of finding or building their faith here? It is our Thousands of people come to Lutherlyn each year to duty and our joy to give time and treasure to preserve the good experience God’s creation through our forests, streams, of today and the promise for the future. wetlands, and trails. Some of our guests have mobility issues ~Charlie & Patti Flach that keep them from enjoying the hilly terrain that characterizes Lutherlyn. The level areas that Lutherlyn does have are often fairly wet and muddy. In order to improve everyone’s Calling all Teachers! experience, we have begun a multi-year project to construct a
Universal Access Trail through the forest to the marsh at the top of the Upper Lake. A Universal Access Trail is a trail that is “usable by all people to the greatest extent possible,” as defined by the US Forest Service. Any grades in the trail will be very slight and the surface will be packed limestone. In many places CIVIC ENGAGEMENT & DEMOCRACY boardwalks will be constructed over wet areas. A workshop series for formal and informal educators The design process for the trail was completed in May and the first section was featuring author and illustrator Lynne Cherry constructed in September and October. We thank Glenn Hawbaker, Inc. for their (The Great Kapok Tree). donation of limestone for the trail and Penn Trails, LLC for designing the trail and March 9, 2019, Lutherlyn Dining Hall, 9:30 am- 4:00pm working many hours with us to construct the first section. Registration is only $15 and includes lunch & snacks. Act Future sections will be constructed as we receive donations to purchase materials and 48 credit available for $5 more. volunteer crews to help with construction. The materials for each boardwalk section cost For more info contact (724) 865-9079, [email protected], or $425 and are great projects for Thrivent Action Teams. visit www.youngvoicesfortheplanet.com/workshops 8
NewsNews andand NotesNotes Society Dinner highlighted how many generous donors give so that no child The Director’s Notebook……. is turned away due to finances. Thousands of kids came to Lutherlyn for an What a great year we have had! It has been just Environmental Education field trip and went home with new knowledge over one year since I became the Executive Director and a clearer understanding of what it is to be a good steward of God’s and your encouragement, kindness, and support has Creation. Groups of all ages were challenged by the high ropes course and been amazing! Lutherlyn has been a HUGE part of gained confidence in what they are able to do or overcome. Summer my life since my first summer as a camper in 1989 Campers took a break from technology and distractions to experience but in this past year, I have been blessed to get to community, to interact with each other face-to-face, to grow in their know so many more of you, the Lutherlyn family, leadership skills and independence, and to explore the ways that the love and to hear so many of your amazing stories of Life-Changing Adventures and grace of God changes EVERYTHING (this was our summer Bible in Faith at Lutherlyn. Thank you for your continued support for and love of Study and Worship theme). Children and adults gained confidence and Lutherlyn. You are a blessing to camp, to me, and, most importantly, to the strength through riding lessons and trail rides at the Equestrian Center. current and future generations of campers and guests! Retreat groups had time and space away to relax, learn, create, explore, and This was Lutherlyn’s first full year of operating under the three-year do whatever they needed to do to connect with God and be refreshed for the strategic direction and it has allowed us to focus closely on the five core busyness of life. areas of Ministry; Summer Camp, Environmental Education, Retreats/ So, now what? A committee appointed by the Board of Directors is in the Events, the Equestrian Center, and the Adventure Program. I am so happy process of turning the strategic direction into a strategic plan with to share with you that all five of our core areas of ministry have measurable goals and objectives. The “Preserving the Future” campaign experienced growth in the past year. That means that more and more people continues to reduce Lutherlyn’s debt so we can plan for the future. We are have experienced Lutherlyn as a God-given place to be accepted, working our way through all of the buildings and facilities to evaluate what challenged, and sent! The staff, the board of directors, our amazing needs to be done to take care of Lutherlyn’s site so we can financially plan volunteers, and everyone who has provided financial support, registered a for needed maintenance and upkeep. All of this, and many other “behind camper, brought a retreat group, attended a field trip, taken a riding lesson, the scenes” projects are in motion so Lutherlyn can continue to serve God’s brought friends to an event, or told others about Lutherlyn has contributed people and be a place for ALL to feel accepted, challenged, and sent out towards supporting and growing this ministry. into the world to make a difference. As you read through this newsletter, I hope that you can sense the love Again, thank you for being a part of the Lutherlyn family! Please accept and grace of God in all that is going on at camp! The All-Staff Reunion was this open invitation to come back to camp and share any ideas, concerns, a FUN reminder of how many people over the past 70 years have spread stories, thoughts, suggestions, or input with me so that Lutherlyn can God’s love with over 100,000 campers. The dedication of Baker Chapel continue to provide Life-Changing Adventures in Faith for many years to was a celebration of the many and various ways that we worship God at come! Lutherlyn and provides our first indoor sanctuary (that was put to good use through a very wet summer). The Trinity Pines Banquet and Shaulis
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT UNDER THE RADAR: BLESSING BAGS As stewards of God's creation we realize that we are commanded to care for and sustain the earth. We also realize that at times we fail to understand our impact upon the created world around us. For this reason Lutherlyn places a high priority on the careful management and restoration of the land with which we have been blessed. Education of campers and staff is seen as an important part of sharing God's vision for the world.
OFFICE UPDATE The next time that you visit Lutherlyn, you will notice changes to the camp office. As this newsletter is being printed, the main entrance is being moved (so it isn’t right next to the camp store), a covered porch for the new entrance is being added, a new furnace is being installed, the concrete patio in front of the store is being replaced, and (the most visually pleasing Lutherlyn’s summer campers have, yet again, change) beautiful new wooden siding is being added over NEW insulation for heat efficiency. opened their hands and generously given to A wonderful and dedicated group of volunteers from “Butler Area Lutheran Ministries” has provide for God’s people. Our 2018 summer been working on the outside of the building since late August. They removed the old siding, offering project was a local project. Campers had repaired/replaced the soffit and fascia, applied insulation and water-resistant barrier paper, and the opportunity to give an offering from their installed new siding. They have done a great job and have worked through beautiful days, hot store account to make “Blessing Bags” for those muggy days, and some downright cold days. We truly could not have done this project without experiencing homelessness right here in Butler. their help. We are so grateful for all of their hard work and we Throughout the summer we collected the are excited for everyone to see what a difference these major offering, in the fall we used that offering to improvements have made! purchase all of the supplies, and at the Advent If you have construction experience and would like to Retreat we assembled 240 Blessing Bags that volunteer for a similar project at camp, please contact were distributed through Catholic Charities in Lutherlyn’s office at 724-865-2161. We are working hard to Butler in December. We are blessed to be a update several cabins and other buildings where your skills blessing to others; thank you to everyone who could make a big impact! contributed towards these Blessing Bags!
CAMPBLAST! Lutherlyn sends out a monthly e-newsletter through Constant Contact. If you would like to Saturday, May 11th, 2019, 11am-4:30pm receive a monthly update from camp, please visit Join us for a day of FUN that highlights all that Lutherlyn has to offer. Horseback www.lutherlyn.com/newsletter and sign up! riding, campfire, crafts, gaga ball, archery, high ropes course, zipline, bouldering room, hikes, nature activities, canoeing, hay rides, games, sports, archaeology, Lutherlyn has over 4,000 “likes” on Facebook! Check out kayaking, biking, tours, great food, and MORE! The best part.... Lutherlyn on Facebook for “What is it Wednesday,” EVERYTHING IS FREE! SPREAD THE WORD! “Throwback Thursday,” news, photos from events, and the Visit www.lutherlyn.com/campblast for more details. most current happenings at camp!