FALL 2012
Stories of lives transformed
Fall2012 Contents In All Things God Works 3 New Land
4
Amgen Tour Of California 6 The Church and Human Trafficking 8 When A Tree Falls 9 Give Camp 331 10 Associate Spotlight 11 Stories From Facebook 12 O.S.S. Serving and Sharing 13 Kidder Creek’s Summit Program 14 The Redwood Society 16 The Envisioned Future For Mount Hermon 18 Trustee Transitions 20 Fostering Spiritual Dialogues in Families 22 Book Of Remembrance 24
Scan this QR code to read and comment on the LOG using your mobile device.
QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be
Book Of Honor 26
2
We Know That In All Things God Works...! PERIOD! by Don Broesamle
T
he article’s title comes from an early report that Rachel Williams wrote regarding Roger’s colon cancer, expressing faith-filled confidence in God’s merciful care... which He HAS given. Period! Through multiple procedures, a hospital release and readmittance, and a delicate balancing of temperature, diet and exercise it’s been quite an odyssey. All along the way the Lord has blessed—with caring friends, choice medical staff, and countless prayers from the Mount Hermon “family.” With Roger (“the Willie Mays of camping”) sidelined, people have continually asked about his healing, and about Mount Hermon’s ministry team and health. Earlier God worked through Roger’s leading to forge a deeply united staff,
now pulling together in our added responsibilities. And God is bountiful— our strong summer ministry had total campers ahead of expectations, and the amazing support people are giving to Mount Hermon is well ahead of the 2012 budget. God is being glorified here, thanks in great measure to your prayers. God is at work in Roger too, strengthening him to fight the cancer. Recently Rachel posted on RogandRach.net that Roger’s “cancer numbers” have dropped significantly, and his tumors shrank 20-50%! His doctors are allowing Roger to begin a partial return to work. As Roger would say, “if that doesn’t light your fire, your wood’s wet!” The whole family thanks you for your cards, letters, gifts, and most of all for your prayers. Our staff also thanks you—for your faithfulness and trust. Here at Mount Hermon God is at work through you too!
Don Broesamle is our Church and Partner Relations Director. He’s been in many of your homes sharing the Mount Hermon story. 3
New Land
Amazed, but Not Surprised! By Alden Johanson
Gr
ah
am
Hi
ll R
oa d
O
ver the years, thousands of families and individuals have driven into Mount Hermon—on their way to a glorious week of Family Camp, to take their children to Redwood Camp or Ponderosa Lodge, or to join their own Guest Groups or Conferences for retreat and respite in the Redwoods. Most can envision passing Safeway and the CVS Pharmacy, turning at the Mount Hermon sign, and taking the grade up and into the beauty along Conference Drive. Next to the shopping center, and extending to Conference Drive and Zayante Road, is a large, tree-studded, pastoral parcel of undeveloped land. You’ve probably noticed this property and wondered about its future. For many years the Mount
4
Con fer e
n ce
Hermon staff have dreamed of owning these 15 pristine acres of mostly flat land— the last such undeveloped parcel in the San Lorenzo Valley. Back in 2006 that dream almost vanished entirely when a local non-profit, South County Housing (SCH), bought the land intending to build 55 affordable housing units there. Mount Hermon could in no way afford their purchase price, but by God’s grace that wasn’t to be the end of the story. Together, our well-known local environmental concerns and the 20082009 housing crisis conspired to unravel their best-laid plans, and SCH advised County officials they would be selling. So about a year ago the County asked Mount Hermon if we’d be interested
D r iv
e
M o u nt H e
rmon Roa
d
nt a y Za
e
in purchasing this property from South County Housing. Thus began a lengthy and complex negotiation involving Santa Cruz County officials, with SCH and their lender. All three groups had held a financial stake in the housing project, and political pressures threatened to derail our negotiations. With diligence we carefully moved ahead, praying for the Lord to lead and honor our efforts, and at every stage God showed up! He even used people He’d “planted” within these organizations to keep our negotiations on track. Then on May 18 all the pieces finally coalesced, and Mount Hermon became the new owner of this beautiful property—at a cost a fraction of the original SCH purchase price!
ad Ro
redwood camp
In miraculous ways God has surely provided this land to us, to serve His Kingdom purposes. We are not surprised, but we ARE amazed! We’re now developing plans for its best use, with several exciting ideas in mind. Our aim is to keep the area scenic and “green,” with minimal structures, to use it primarily for children and recreation. Our desire is to enhance the experience for our guests while blessing our community at the same time. Please pray for a smooth planning, zoning and permitting process, allowing us, as soon as possible, to put this treasure to use for God’s glory.
Alden Johanson is Chief Operating Officer, and currently Acting Executive Director while Roger is on medical leave. 5
The AMGEN TOUR OF (Mou By Bill Fernald
I
n 2010 the Amgen Tour of California’s teams of world-class road cycling riders, with their support groups of managers, mechanics, medics and “soigneurs” (“personal welfare” staff), rolled into Mount Hermon’s Conference Center for a whirlwind one-night R&R. They stopped here along the route of one of the world’s premier bicycle races, ranked with the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France. Scheduled over a year in advance, sadly the 2011 Tour would skip Santa Cruz and Mount Hermon. However, in their post-Tour-of-2010 evaluations, the teams and event organizers recommended a return to Mount Hermon in 2012! Why? This international group of high-achievers was deeply impressed by the same characteristics of Mount Hermon that inspire our own thanks to the Lord: • An at-home, welcome feeling— rooms all comfortable, space prepared for the teams
6
• A service level of graciousness and expertise unsurpassed elsewhere • Obvious attention to detail–even signage marking water and electrical outlets • Carefully-formulated dietary needs prepared with excellence and abundance • Security—a place to rest outside, basking in the restorative redwoods and beauty • Trust—Mount Hermon had followed through just as they’d requested—and we’d promised These were some of their comments: “...competent, gracious hospitality.” “...your staff was committed to our joint success!” “...gorgeous natural setting and serenity—a major departure for us.” “...more stories of Mount Hermon were shared than of any other place.” “Mount Hermon over-delivered!” Sixteen international professional teams of up to 10 riders each plus support staff—350
Hosting the Amgen Tour of California is a service into our community. It also allows us to minister to hundreds of guests who would have no other reason to hear about us, or more importantly the One we represent.
unt Hermon) CALIFORNIA guests in all—came this year. They filled nearly every available guest room, and their support vehicles and maintenance trailers absorbed every level parking surface in the Center, including the Book Shop mall area! Each rider received a welcome note that included Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Once again our staff was ready to serve, affording riders the restorative place they desperately sought, and their entourage the facilities needed to fully prepare for the next leg of the Tour … and then they were gone. Early next morning they loaded up and headed off to complete the 733-mile race that began north of Santa Rosa, ran through central California, across the San Gabriel Mountains, and culminated in Los Angeles. As a Tour host, Mount Hermon’s logo was displayed throughout the County and on global Tour websites. At the Finish Line
Festival, thousands watched the Jumbotrons looping 30-second videos of Mount Hermon. At our booth there, our staff met countless spectators asking to learn more about Mount Hermon. And we couldn’t have chosen a better description of Mount Hermon for Tour organizers to display at every locale, than their own choice: “Christ-centered Camps and Conferences for the Entire Family!” Hosting the Amgen Tour of California is a service into our community. It also allows us to minister to hundreds of guests who would have no other reason to hear about us, or more importantly the One we represent. As they recognize our care for them, which is unique among their experiences in their worldwide events, they cannot help but wonder about the Lord who motivates us. Our staff are so blessed by the one-on-one exchanges and the opportunity to be the face of Jesus.
Bill Fernald is Guest Services Director, and himself an avid road cycler. Passing on his passion, Bill is sometimes seen riding behind his and Patrice’s son, Landon, hand on the bike seat, pushing him up one of our hills.
7
the church and human trafficking
by Lisa Olson
“...as you have done it for even the least of them...” —Mt. 25:40
L
ast fall Jeremy Martinez, a San Jose Police Detective and long-time constituent, met with us to explore a need he recognized from his unique perspective. Jeremy leads the SJPD Human Trafficking Task Force, working closely with agencies, churches and non-profit ministries, whose earnest efforts address the needs of human trafficking victims in our Bay Area neighborhoods. He knew that working together these people could maximize their energies in making a real difference. Jeremy thought, since Jesus cares deeply about abuse victims, why not convene these groups at Mount Hermon? The Church and Human Trafficking, our first conference, was a unique Mount Hermon experience. An intentional spiritual retreat, it drew each guest into an intimate encounter with Jesus Christ. Concurrently, our world-class faculty provided outstanding training, practical, biblical help in prevention, intervention, long- and short-
8
term life-transition services for victims, and much-needed soul care for workers. We primarily emphasized issues and activities occurring in the Bay Area, but also included ways to address international trafficking. Mark Labberton brought the perfect pastoral presence, helping connect a community of people called by Christ into this difficult ministry. His poignant Bible messages walked a tightrope between encouragement and conviction. Justin McRoberts’ complementary musical gifts and tender heart for trafficking victims drew us into a singular experience before the Lord. It was a life-shaping event. With this annual conference we desire to strengthen this emerging community, nurture our relationships, and maximize our effectiveness in preventing and eradicating this devastating industry that somehow thrives in our midst. If you feel a call to learn how you might respond to this need, save the May 3-5, 2013 dates, and watch our website for details. “Lord, nothing is too hard for you.” Jer. 32:17
Lisa Olson is Director of Program Ministries. Lisa grasps the severity of the trafficking problem, and the urgency for the church and Christians to take a lead in efforts to address it. This conference puts compassion into action.
When a Tree Falls in the Forest... by Don Broesamle
H
ave you noticed how God occasionally gently nudges in areas where we’re challenged? Well, at Mount Hermon one of our goals—really, one of our challenges—is providing attractive and comfortable lodging for our valued guests. And over the past 18 months God has “nudged” us to upgrade some of those accommodations. “It was a dark and stormy night” when a massive fir tree toppled, bringing to a crushing end the 70 years of service of Sequoia Lodge. We were amazed at God’s mercy, as no guests were in Sequoia that Saturday evening—a rare occurrence! The complete rebuild allowed us to make some outstanding enhancements. The upper floor rooms now enjoy beamed ceilings and ceiling fans, plus enlarged bathrooms. The original knotty pine paneling was salvaged and resurfaced,
and is now wainscoting in all the rooms. New log beds give a warm “lodge feel,” and complete insulation from floor to ceiling, with dual-pane windows, make room temperatures stable and comfortable. The “antique” gas stove heating provides both temperature efficiency and aesthetic appeal—that means they look really great! This January, after seven months of construction costing over $300,000, we opened the new Sequoia Lodge units for our first guests. Next time you’re here, take a peek. When this tree fell in the forest, God heard, and His is the glory. We thank the Lord always for your prayers and your support— in this and in each of our projects.
Don Broesamle, Partner and Church Relations Director, loves hearing from our guests enjoying this new facility. He says it is now a really “gucci” place to stay for Family Camp. 9
Love in Action Give Camp 331 by J.R. Loofbourrow
Gordon and Jan Kvamme
I
’d like you to meet Gordon and Jan Kvamme—long-time Mount Hermon friends, faithful, committed members of our volunteer team, and part of our Associates family.
Last summer they were deeply impacted by an experience their grandson had here at camp. We were very excited they shared it with us, and they’ve allowed us to pass it on to you. We know this will touch your soul just as deeply as it did ours. The Kvammes wrote us, “…Last summer we sent our grandson to Ponderosa Lodge. His friend was able to join him thanks to help from your Campership Fund—thank you for making that possible! At the end of the week, when we picked them up the first thing they asked was, ‘will we be able to come back NEXT year?’ You can easily imagine the joy—theirs and ours! Jan and I would like to make that same experience possible for twenty-five other campers in 2012. Twenty-five times three hundred thirty-one equals eight thousand two hundred and seventy-five dollars. May God use these camperships to bless and reach many people for His Kingdom…” Through the Kvammes, twenty-five additional young people have now experienced the love of Jesus in community at Mount Hermon this past summer. Whether at Ponderosa Lodge, in Redwood Camp or up at Kidder Creek, we know Jesus met them. With Gordon and Jan, you too can “give” Christ’s love to other campers. We prayerfully ask for your support of “Give Camp 331,” which will ensure someone else will encounter the love of Jesus here at Mount Hermon.
10
J.R. Loofbourrow is Director of Advancement. His keen interest is in seeing more people drawn into the drama of God’s spiritual harvest at camp by means of their invested gifts. The Kvammes are a grand example!
Heart Felt Investments by Kerry Phibbs
A
pril 2012 began Brenda Wallace’s tenth year on the Mount Hermon staff. Brenda started as a registrar, but it was soon evident her skills fit perfectly as Registration Manager. We are consistently blessed by Brenda’s heart for people and for this ministry. She and her staff are the “face of Mount Hermon,” when guests call and as they arrive for their time in the Redwoods. Her care for her registration team keeps them all at their best. Brenda shared with us, “I chose to join our Associate family wanting to invest even more deeply in the lives of the people who come onto these grounds. The Lord had recently impressed me in certain ways that influenced my decision. First, I’m gratified when people say, “You sound like you really love your job,” and I can authentically reply, “Yes, I really do.” One example is a woman I met on a plane, who’d never heard of Mount Hermon. Five months later she blew me away by attending a retreat as a result of our conversation! The Lord also impressed on me the effect Mount Hermon has had on my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews. Whether the kids come for a youth camp or we just hang out on the grounds, Mount Hermon brings us closer together. They never knew of Mount Hermon before I came here, so this is a new generation now introduced to this wonderful place.” Like many of you, Brenda chose to invest where her heart is—in this ministry. If you’d like to know more about becoming a Mount Hermon Associate, call 831.430.1237, or reach us on the web at mounthermon.org/give.
Kerry Phibbs is the Associate Director of Donor Relations. She rejoices when people partner with us as a part of the Associates Family. 11
like
By Murphy Felton
it’s a social world
Whether you tweet, pin, like, plus, or blog—one thing that cannot be denied is what people post on social networks are un-edited reviews of how they feel about their most recent adventure. This summer, Mount Hermon’s Facebook Page was filled with these un-edited, genuine reviews of people’s most recent Mount Hermon experience. No one tells the story of the ministry of Mount Hermon better than those who experience it first hand. Here are several of our favorite posts from the summer, straight from our Facebook wall. Share your story at facebook.com/mounthermon.
Murphy Felton is the Marketing Team Manager, and doubles as our Coca Cola drinking copy writing, text editing, team wrangler, and resident cheese monger. 12
“It’s encouraging to realize our different ministries are sharing the same goal of impacting young lives for God by teaching them the science of nature.”
ACROS
O.S.S. Serving and Sharing By Suzy Clark
O
n a glorious winter weekend in January, Mount Hermon’s Outdoor Science School hosted and programmed an “ACROS” gathering. The Association of Christian Residential Outdoor Schools came to Ponderosa Lodge to worship, to encourage and to learn from one another. Sixty people representing ten Christian outdoor school programs participated. Individuals learned to hone and strengthen their classroom management techniques, and gained broader perspectives from public school teachers who shared their own unique teaching challenges.
They also explored specific topics that challenge their students to marvel, such as experiential education in the 21st century, birds, God in nature, and fungus! Participants told us they most valued connecting deeply with God and each other, and learning the skills their fellow partners in ministry utilize in reaching out to school-aged kids. One participant stated, “It’s encouraging to realize our different ministries are sharing the same goal of impacting young lives for God by teaching them the science of nature.” Hosted by different outdoor education programs throughout California, ACROS gatherings happen each year. We invite you to learn more about this program by visiting our facebook page: ‘ACROS’. You’ll be AMAZED with what you learn!
Suzy Clark is the Director of our world class Outdoor Science School. She and husband Todd and their two children are all outdoor aficionados. 13
Now People Can See My Real Heart By Don Broesamle
A
lexsay came to Kidder Creek’s Summit Program from two abusive foster homes. In boarding school, surrounded by thieves, drugs and alcohol, he was often bullied and beaten. He had little motivation. At Summit, our three week youth intensive program, the Lord paired Alexsay with Caleb, one of our interns, who spoke truth—always with love. Caleb said, “We went for it—hiking, training, kayaking—we kept talking together about his life, dreams and hopes, his depression and thoughts of suicide, his lost family in Russia. Alexsay said, ‘there’s so many problems I can’t overcome it all.’” Caleb steered Alexsay’s thinking to attainable goals and steps he’d take to achieve them: “I must finish school and apply for a work training program.” Caleb said, “If it’s worth having, it’s worth effort—like here by this waterfall. We’re 18 miles into the mountains. Very few people ever see this. But you worked for it, you achieved it, and now you’re enjoying God’s beauty! It’s the same with any accomplishment, and the Lord will help you.” Alexsay asked, “Why do you even care?” Caleb explained, “I’m helping you so you’ll help other foster and abused kids too.” Alexsay then understood how he too might “change the world.” Transformation!
Alexsay left, but he’d met a friend who cares and a God who loves him. Later, Alexsay called Caleb, “I’m in summer school, and I applied for that program.” Progress. Again he called, “I DID IT! I graduated. I’m accepted for training! Now people can see my real heart.” At Kidder Creek, Summit is about speaking truth, offering safe places for relationships—a caring mentor, a loving God—about lives transformed.
Caleb Vance (r) is from Lansing, MI, a Recreation major, and one of our expert Interns, is pictured here with Alexay at the waterfall.
Don Broesamle is our Church and Partner Relations Director. Contact Don to host an open house where you can share your Mount Hermon story. Don.Broesamle@mounthermon.org, 831.430.1240 14
save time save trees Give Regularly Give online
mounthermon.org/give Make a “one time” gift or sign up for automatic monthly contributions using a credit card or electronic funds transfer from your checking account. It’s easy!
We’re a little crunched on vehicles.
To donate your vehicle to Mount Hermon, please contact J.R., Kerry, or Debbie in the Advancement Department, 831.430.1237 / advancement@mounthermon.org
Leave A Legacy The Redwood Society by Roger Williams
A
t the height of the current recession Mount Hermon’s leadership faced the daunting dilemma of trimming staff and meeting payroll. Together with our Board we prayed for God’s wisdom and provision, and then proceeded “in the dark” trusting God. “On the third day” we received word of a bequest—40 years earlier someone had included Mount Hermon in her estate, and that timely gift was significantly more than our need. Who could have known the impact of such intentional generosity? Only God. And now US! This year, as described in a separate LOG article, the Lord provided us the opportunity to purchase that keystone property at the entrance to Mount Hermon. After God’s miraculous interventions in shepherding the purchase through various
16
obstacles, we still needed a $200,000 down payment. While Mike Perez, Finance Director, and Alden Johanson, our Chief Operating Officer, were still attempting to conjure those funds from various accounts, another bequest came in for— naturally—$200,000! Who could write this script? Only our Sovereign Lord. This is precisely why we’ve formed The Mount Hermon Redwood Society. We want to celebrate together—now—what God will be doing after most of us are gone from here. In this way we expect the most joy for one another and the highest glory to God. Through The Redwood Society, those who the Lord has enriched at Mount Hermon can designate a portion of their estate, so future families may be likewise blessed in these ministries. The Lord Himself established this Mount Hermon conference ministry, which has enjoyed unparalleled spiritual impact
during its first century. In our earliest years hundreds came for spiritual refreshment. Now visitors are numbered in the thousands—in 2011 over 54,000 people faced life-shaping encounters with our God at Mount Hermon.
love to speak with you about this. If you already have Mount Hermon in your will or trust, please let us thank you! We’ll enroll you as a charter member in The Redwood Society—charter memberships will remain open through 2013.
For generations of families Mount Hermon has formed a distinctive heritage, and over the decades numerous families have established lifetime legacies for those following in their footsteps. It is our hope your family will be similarly led to invest here, anticipating the marvelous impact your intentionality will have in years to come.
God loves a cheerful giver, and so do we! Our first annual Redwood Society celebration will be in early 2013. Of course, you may also choose to be an anonymous member. Either way, please join us in pioneering a partnership through The Redwood Society, establishing a legacy your family will remember. It represents an opportunity to create your own family memorial, by which in future years many others will be “surprised by joy.”
Various estate-planning options are available. A will or living trust, a “Giving for Income” gift annuity or charitable trust, or even a “Give It Twice” trust, can benefit your family first, and later become a valuable support for Mount Hermon. Call us at 831.430.1244—we’d
Roger Williams, Mount Hermon’s Executive Director, is on medical leave. God has graciously kept Roger involved with us in this healthy camping ministry. 17
The Envisioned Future For Mount Hermon: Part 1 By Lisa Olson
18
H
ealthy organizations pause periodically to consider the future. And not just the immediate, foreseeable future covering next year’s budget, a current site plan, the calendar or a permit cycle, but a future that’s beyond their horizon … just out of sight … just out of reach.
• Societal Trends, less far-reaching and potentially less enduring, that shape our ministry environment, including— economic shifts, the trend toward smaller or home churches, expanding ministry partnerships, the global emphasis on biblical justice, and the attraction of ethical consumerism.
Recently our staff, Executive Team and Board of Directors engaged in an effort to carefully ponder what an envisioned future for Mount Hermon could be. Our task-force (called re-Imagine) was commissioned to look at culture, the church, the family and the world, to determine from today’s perspective Mount Hermon’s role in accomplishing our mission and what needs we might address that weren’t on our radar even ten or twenty years ago.
• Strategic Areas of Focus for Mount Hermon, relating specifically to our mission, purpose, distinctives, core values and ministry.
This interdepartmental task force was largely composed of staff members from twenty to forty years old. We read books and articles, interviewed pastors and scholars, and conducted focus groups and guest surveys. We invited strategic critics to attend our programs and give us feedback, and prayed through very stimulating and fierce conversations. A draft of our thinking then ran the gauntlet—tested and critiqued by our Executive Team and our Board. After significant molding, clarifying and crafting of language that can speak into multiple generations, we’re enthusiastic about the result. This collaboration has laid the foundation for what has become the Envisioned Future statement for the next decade of Mount Hermon ministry. This statement identifies three categories warranting our attention: • Cultural Paradigm Shifts now shaping our world, including—our presumed Christian culture becoming “postChristian,” the change from an era of modern thinking to a postmodern era of thinking, and the unmistakable shift to a multi-ethnic culture from mono-ethnic.
One key concern we first addressed was an impression that “Mount Hermon tries to be all things to all people” – that we’re “not focused.” This sentiment suggested that we should zero in on one age group or demographic, to the exclusion of others. However, we instead concluded that while we are not and should not be ALL things to all people, we do want to be ONE thing to all people. What is that “one thing”? We want to create places and experiences where people can meet God in such a way that their lives are transformed. Our ONE objective is to create spaces and experiences where anyone of any age, of any spiritual maturity, of any socioeconomic circumstance or ethnicity, or from any church background can encounter Jesus and draw one step closer to Him. In subsequent issues of The LOG we’ll describe further this Envisioned Future Statement – the road map for all of our activity. It’s God’s gracious provision that we could complete this effort prior to Roger’s cancer diagnosis and medical leave. God allowed Roger to be intimately involved with us, both in envisioning and setting this course. We are excited to share this journey with you and look forward to each bend in the road.
Lisa Olson is Director of Program Ministries. She’s glad to share with you this vision of Mount Hermon’s Future on behalf of the leadership team. 19
Trustee Transitions By Don Broesamle
M
ount Hermon functions with a Board of Directors working closely with the staff in setting policy direction, and a Board of Trustees, who appoint the Directors and oversee the ministry’s spiritual and biblical integrity. Current Trustees are John Jenks (since 1982), Scott Farmer (2002), Suzanne Cairns (2003), René Schlaepfer (2008) and Trustee President Ron Demolar (2011).
In November, 2011, both Jack Cauwels (1992) and Robert Presnell (1995) resigned as Trustees, culminating for Jack 16 years as a Director and 9 years as a Trustee, and for Bob 8 years as a Director and 16 as a Trustee. Each has served as President on each board. Mount Hermon has been their place for multi-generational family gatherings, for spiritual growth and strengthening,
20
and for giving back in ministry and service, assuring their Mount Hermon legacy is passed on to many more families. Jack and Phyllis, and Bob and Vangie each have a home in Mount Hermon, and are significant contributors to God’s work here. Jack and Phyllis came to Mount Hermon in 1969, quickly involving themselves in the ministry. Jack’s business experience as the owner of Insurance Center of Merced, and his leadership skills and enthusiasm for Mount Hermon made for an easy transition onto the Board of Directors and later the Trustees. The generosity Jack and Phyllis exhibit, and their joy in Christ have been a rich blessing to Mount Hermon. Jack and Phyllis have a grown daughter and two grandchildren still living here, and will continue visiting them Mount Hermon cabin from their home in Palm Desert, California. Bob and Vangie first participated at Mount Hermon in 1948, purchasing their home on Conference Drive in 1986. The Owner of Likit Windows in San Leandro, Bob’s business acumen and servant’s heart led to a welcome transition onto the
Board of Directors in 1989, and then to the Trustees in 1995. During his tenure Bob has been invaluable in working to strengthen the communication and interaction of the boards with Mount Hermon’s staff. And Bob can still hit his driver nearly 250 yards. He and Vangie have three grown children. They live in Castro Valley, and bring their encouraging spirits with each visit. We also have two new Trustees: Robin Spurlock is one of our next generation of leaders. Robin’s distinguished association with Mount Hermon includes her tenure as Ponderosa Lodge Director from 1984 to 1996. Her husband Paul is the Mission and Outreach Pastor at Twin Lakes Church, and she home-schools their three daughters, Jessica, Krista and Erica. Theirs is a very active family, loving the outdoors and grateful to live in this area. We thank the Lord that He has led Robin to make this transition into her new trustee role.
Steve Zeisler is Teaching Pastor at Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, the church where long-term Mount Hermon conference speaker and Trustee Ray Stedman served. Steve’s own experience with Mount Hermon dates back to 1967, when he was a student– athlete on the Stanford football team. Someone once shared with Steve about a marriage conference they had attended, to which Steve replied, “That’s a good ministry, but I much prefer Mount Hermon’s Couples Conferences.” We appreciate Steve’s support! Over the years Steve has participated with PBC in many of their strong Men’s Retreats held here each year. Steve and wife Leslie have two grown children. We are grateful to God who continues blessing Mount Hermon with gifted leaders and godly servants who strengthen our Gospel calling.
Don Broesamle is our Church and Partner Relations Director. Served on the Board of Directors with both Jack and Bob, and was an elder with Steve at PBC Palo Alto. 21
by Lisa Olson
Fostering Spiritual Dialogues in Families by Lisa Olson
I
’m celebrating an anniversary this year… my 30th summer in professional camp ministry! This milestone offers a time for reflection, about what I’ve learned, what I’m learning, and what I hope to learn as I journey ahead. I’d spent my first 24 years focused on children’s and youth ministry, so Mount Hermon presented the opportunity to learn to create places and experiences where adults and families could encounter Christ in life-transforming ways. And it’s been exhilarating. Early on I met Jim Burns, beloved family camps and couples conferences speaker. He leads HomeWord, a ministry encouraging and equipping parents and churches to build God-honoring families from generation to generation. Jim had only praise for the foundations Ken Harrower and others had laid in Mount Hermon’s family camps. He
22
challenged us to enhance that by finding ways to “foster spiritual dialogues” in families—to get them talking together about God’s activity in their lives. I had realized our programs were operating effectively, but on parallel tracks. Preschool, Day Camp, Youth and Adult programs each had capable leadership producing positive results in each person involved. Yet each coordinator “in isolation” determined his/her own objectives and his/ her own curriculum. Each family member was drawing closer to God, but the family as a unit was missing that experience, even while all together each night. So our team began intentional effort to promote spiritual dialogues. First we all had to get on the same page—literally the same page in the Word. Our coordinators agreed on simple curricular objectives teaching
the same Bible passages. We developed a daily theme, and a passage and verse to convey it. Each ministry team then could develop their own activities, small group questions, worship and teaching to flesh it out. This allowed a family, when together each night, to dialogue about what they’d learned that day, each from his own experiences. And parents were given a “Cliff’s Notes” version of the children’s curriculum to facilitate their conversation. Intergenerational components were added—shared worship experiences, drama and fun that reinforced the daily spiritual themes—creating a family memory around lively dialogues. This year we introduced campers to the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Amazingly, at Victory Circle adults have admitted their embarrassing unfamiliarity with the Holy Spirit, and their determination to know Him more intimately. Day Campers at closing ceremonies were reciting Bible verses about the gifts of the Spirit and His role in their lives. Even preschoolers could
answer simple questions, declaring how the Holy Spirit empowers them and is their constant companion. Each week parents shared conversations with their children, describing what each family member was learning—a spiritual dialogue! It’s working. Our ultimate goal is to create a vision for what can happen beyond the magic of Mount Hermon, when families commit to talk together about what God is doing in their lives. Our prayer is for their Family Camp experience to be so powerful that they’ll go home a changed family, as well as changed individuals. Being on the same page was first. Risking intimate spiritual conversations, probing each other’s lives, came next. Doing that on a regular basis without “Cliff’s Notes” allows the dialogue to continue in the real world. We’re learning to facilitate that process, and are grateful for families willing to engage this way. Please give us your feedback. We’d love to hear your story of a spiritual dialogue that started in your family while at Mount Hermon.
Lisa Olson is Director of Program Ministries and is in constant conversation with her four children ages 18 to 23. 23
Book of Remembrance BILL ALHOUSE
Curt & Elizabeth Schulze
EVERETT ALLEN
Kenneth and Avis Oldenburger
MARY ANDERSON Ken Anderson
JOAN ARCHER
Thomas Kessel Neoma McCaughey
JANE BAKER
Darryl & Carolyn Compton
GUY BALDWIN Edith Baldwin Andrew Baldwin David Baldwin Kristine Moulds
ABE BARTSCH Rebecca Bartsch
KEN & DOROTHY BEADLE
KATHERINE CHAN
ALMA BERG
RONALD COMBS
HOWARD BLOWER
CHARLES COOK
Connie Dippo
Bill & Lois Jones Don & Linda Broesamle Dick & Barbara Dosker Gary Elston Richard Elston Debbie & Steve Franck Mary Gerdes Ken & Mari Harrower Ed & Marilyn Hayes Virginia Henderson Kenneth Kerri Sharon Lanphear J.R. & Laurie Loofbourrow Beulah Olson Bruce Power
BENNY JAY BONTRAGER Clell & Janet Bontrager
JULIA ALEXANDRIA BROWN Margaret Barry & William Macauley Bernard Bell Stephen and Wanda Belton Bozarth Family Don & Linda Broesamle Michelle Brown Stephen and Michelle Byrd Michael and Emily Cabot John and Carolyn Corstorphine Rob and Robbin Cortez Daniel & Adrial Fuller Ed and Louanne Gonzalez Matt and Christine Gough Aaron & Amiee Gustafson Jeffrey and Mary Heaton Carl Hekkert Douglas and Jennifer Hirzel Tzu-Yen and Kimberly Hsu
24
Victor and Alice Kimsey Frank and Rocelia Kmak Ronald and Mary Ann Lalime Robert and Christa Lee Joshua and Stephanie Lewis Juliana Liu and Andrew Hsi William and Marilyn Misson Paul and Donna Nies Rick and Mary Ann Palm Wesley Palmquist William and Karen Parker Roger and Pamela Phillips Norman and Alissa Picker Nick and Melissa Quinn Karina Salmon Karie Sedano Steven and Kathryn Settle Sharon Sheehan Chris and Katie Steipp Trevor and Anne-Marie Strohman William and Brenda Vinnicombe James and Nancy Wood Charles & Anna Lee
Darryl & Carolyn Compton Harry & Shirley Barton
MAY FOLDEN COON
Mark & Joan Folden Mary Gerdes Eugene & Margaret Hendrickson Bob & Peggy Mapes Paul & Alonna Rose
TED COZZENS Mary Pierson
DOROTHY DAHL
Bruce & Ann Dahl Noble & Dorothy Dashiell Betty Gower Bob & Karen Landgraf Alexander & Margaret Purvis
SVEN DAHL
Bruce & Ann Dahl
ART DAVIES
Bill & Lois Jones
GLEN DENEE John O’Neill
MARGARET DEN DULK Marvin & Edith Den Dulk James & Jacqueline Glenn
ALVIN DICK
Agnes Bernstein Ron & Judy Brown Doreen Dick Henry & Erica Dick Wally Dirks Fred M. Kaneshige
Jim, Sandy & Justin Hatz Henry & Evelyn Konrad Ron & Carla McCall George & Dorothy Penner The Van Hoy Family
ELIZABETH DOUGLAS Linda Ewy Ken and Mari Harrower Lois Heinz Wayne Sabatelli Nancy Stone
DONOVAN DUNLOP Michael & Janice Hare
EDNA ERICKSON Janice Watson
WILLIAM FISHER Georgia Fisher
SHERMAN FONG
Darwin & Patricia Fong Nancy Gee Herbert & Marie Kong Andrew & Christine Lew Laura Lew William & Eva Lew Alice Ling Julia Ng & Family Sylvia Wong Patey & Family Simon & Nancy Read Jerry & Andrea Wong Jim & Janice Yee
CARLTON FURNBERG Mona Furnberg Edgar & Phyllis Lucas
HUBERT FORSYTH
Darryl & Carolyn Compton
GEORGE, RUTH, & DAVID GILCHRIST Steve & Terree Gilchrist
DOROTHY STONER GLEEPSEN Lynn Brass Gene & Mary Dunmire Thomas & La Verne Emmering Dorothy Engen Mary Gerdes Roger & Norma Gintert Peter Larson Helen Larson Fred & Marilyn Miller Kaye Sawyer Jonathan & Debbie Stoner Trudy Swenson David Willis Keith & Arleen Yoder
JAMES GOTHRUP
Mark & Janey Herschbach
BOB GRUNIGEN Bill & Sally Russ
CAROLA GUDNASON Darryl & Carolyn Compton Jerry & Arlene Hitchman Beulah Olson
MARK HANLON Judy Halon
KEN HARGREAVES Mary Gerdes
JOHN DAVID HARRIS Sherry Doherty-Duran William & Anita Troup William Williams
DALE LINSTRUM
Bruce & Barbara Burman
PAUL LUCAS Mona Furnberg
JOANNE LUCCHESE Ed & Wendy Beidleman
ROBERT LYNDS
Jim & Carrie Bailey David Lynds & Family, Carissa, Gabe & Elijah Steve & Phyllis Lynds Nelson Jeanne Peirce
CHUCK HOBBY
DON MASTERS
JAMES HOOD
DWIGHT & MARGARET MATHIESEN
Carole Thornburgh
Harry & Shirley Barton
SANFORD HOPKINS
Darryl & Carolyn Compton
ROBERT HULSEY Agnes Stilwell
DERON INGEBRETSON Robert & Jane Ingebretson
ELENORE DOROTHEA JACOBS Joan Hamilton Sallie Harris Curtis Morris Gayle Snyder
CHARLOTTE JENKS
Howard & Ann Bennett Janice Fisk J.R. & Laurie Loofbourrow Ruth Schnicke
DWIGHT O. JOHNSON Charles & Linda Johnson Earl & Diane Johnson Walter & Esther Johnson
CECIL & KATHERINE KETTLE Duke McCluskey
CLYDE LANDIS Bill & Sally Russ
KEN LANGE
Jeanine Lange Peek
EDWIN LEACH Sally Leach
EVA LEMINGS Janice Watson
EDNA LEWIS
Dave Berkey Judy Hatton Nelda Olson Rosemarie Pecanic Don & Marge Stewart
ARLYSS LILLEY
Don & Linda Broesamle Mark & Mary Lilley John & Lori Anne Saubert Dave & Carla Talbott
Darryl & Carolyn Compton Paul & Alonna Rose
DR. SAMUEL & LOIS McDILL Laurel Gephart
WALTER MOORE
Darryl & Carolyn Compton
ROBERT A. MOULTHROP Mark & Marilyn Markham
Phillip Siemens Nancy Spence
PETEY PEHRSON
John & Mary Lundberg Skip & Helen Peterson Nancy Spence
GLORIANNE PERSINGER Nancy Torgerson
RAWLEY PETERS
Roger & Linda Bensing Tim & Carolyn Carlson Susan Gibbons Jim & Kathleen Isham Frances Anne Peters Hutchinson John Lineweaver Clifton & Linda Newton Jean Peters Rawley & Carmen Peters Paul & Marion Peterson Barbara Rieter John & Dorene Rhoads Arlene Silver Ardith Thompson Dorritt Whitemore Barbara & Wayne Zimmerman
JASON & JENNIFER MULVANEY
MARILYN PITMAN
MAYNARD & ERMA MUNGER
PAMELA T. PON
EDWARD NELSON
MARILYNN PULPANECK
Bill & sally Russ
Burt & Marie Busk Bill & Sally Russ
KRISTY ANN NELSON Ed & Elenor Nelson Bill & Sally Russ
ROGER NELSON
Michael & Stephanie Martinez Jim & Colleen Peterson John & Colleen Plaza Curt & Elizabeth Schulze
Darryl & Carolyn Compton Betty Pon
Barrett & Regis Anderson Eddie & Doris Bohn Diane Hanagan & Family Ann Larson & Family Marsha Lotze & Family Marlene Pitt Barbara Ward Patti Wright & Family
IRENE RATHE
Mary Ann & Tom Dwyer
MAX NITCHER
ESSIE RICHMOND
EUNICE OLDHAM
ALMA ROBERTSON
NEILL PARSHALL
JOE & LIZ SAUBERT
ROBERT C. PATERSON
VERA SAXBERG
Walter & Marie Love Elden & Renee Hansen Marilyn Severns
Dave & Evelyn Brooks Betty Gower Carol Paterson Bob & Margaret Putnam
Lily Chin
Jerry & Arlene Hitchman John & Lori Anne Saubert Nelda Olson
ELSA T. SCOTT
Dick & Barbara Dosker
WILLIAM & DORTHY PATTERSON ORVILLE SHICK Lois Uranga
DAVID PEHRSON
Ronald & Sylvia Hagen Gary & Leah Jones John & Mary Lundberg Jeff & Jeanette Morgan Paul & Karen Pentony Skip & Helen Peterson
Kaaren Slocum
RONALD SINGLEY
Bernie & Miriam Denton Erik & LaVonne Eichner Earl & Diane Johnson Dave & Carla Talbott
25
SHANNON SMITS
Nelva den Dulk Ron & Alice den Dulk Kenneth & Margaret Roos Ron & Karen Smits Susianna Smits
PEGGY SPAUGH Nelda Olson
CARL STILWELL
James & Cindy Erickson
DONALD A. STONER Fred & Marilyn Miller
ARNOLD TRUE
Virginia True & Family Robert & Anne Atkins Delmer & Ellen Bond Jim & Mary Crawford Bernie & Miriam Denton Duane & Shirley Harves Jack & Marilyn Hoss Jim & Marlene Jessup Dick & Betty Ketcham Leon & Lorraine Maksoudian
BOOK OF
HONOR JEREMIAH ANDUJO (Graduation) David & Cynthia Parks
WILLIAM ANAYA Sandy Anaya
LUCILLE BROOKS (90th Birthday) Elsie Dost
JASON & KIM PALMQUIST CARKETT Wesley Palmquist
RON DEMOLAR
Russ & Ginger Arnold
ROB FAISANT
Tom and Kathy Larson
BARBARA GRENSTED Lucille Bowen
ROBERT & ARLEEN HULSEY (50th Wedding Anniversary) Dick & Shari Mills Ken & Bess Morris Agnes Stilwell Michael & Kathy Taylor
Bill & Dorothy McAnally Edna Mote Gary & June Parsons Walt Paullin Ralph & Connie Rowe Leona Schiller Stan Shimabuku Carolee Singley Phyllis Sukumlyn Bill Tognotti Melvin & Janet Yost Williamd & Phyllis Yttrup
DAVID TWYSEN Bill & Sally Russ
JOHN URANGA Lois Uranga
KATHRYN VAN DIEST Don & Linda Broesamle Jean Ellen and Bill Brown
MARIAN WAGGENER
Robert & Dorothy Johansson
Alvin Bosch Reuben & Laura Brasser Jake & Anna De Groot Henry De Haan Dairy Abel & Maria Dutra Craig Gordon Edward & Susan Heins Frank & Lois Hilarides David & Susan Koekkoek Peter & Carol Kuhl Gary & Carol Larson Mark & Georgene Ligtenberg James Oliver Sherrie Schnelle Theodore & Thea Sipma Bennett & Rhonda Slegers Ted & Stacey Spaseff Vanden Berg Dairy Geoffrey & Darlene Vanden Heuvel Andy & Elgene Van Dyk Henry & Bernice Visser Russell & Connie Wiersma Stan & Nancy Winters Nellie Zeilstra
ARMAND & KATHLEEN LANGMO John & Susan Koeker
MARVIN & LINDA LAWRENCE Gerry & Sunne Brandmeyer
CHARLES & EDNA LEWIS (50th Wedding Anniversary) Bernie & Miriam Denton
CHUCK & VONNIE LOMBARD (60th Wedding Anniversary)
DARYL & ELLEN KOOPS (35th Wedding Anniversary)
JOHN & LAVERN NEWMAN
Lisa & John Anker Janice Auman
26
Curt & Grace Willson
ROBERT WARD
Roger & Linda Bensing
CORINE HUTCHINGS WELLS Suzanne Wells
LLOYD WENZEL Bill & Lois Jones
ROBERT E. WERNER
Galen Friesen Jim & Peggy McQuaid Nelda Olson Raymond & Angela Sheffield Carrie Williamson
EUGENE WILLIAMS Carolee Singley Dave & Carla Talbott
CLARK WRIGHT
David & Becky Wright
HALONA ZUCK Bill & Iris Maize
JOHN & LAURIE JENKS (60th Wedding Anniversary) Don & Linda Broesamle
KEN WALLACE
Ken & Bess Morris Nelda Olson
Rose & Gordon Hummel
ANDREW & KRISTEN PALMQUIST Wesley Palmquist
PETER & STEFANIE PALMQUIST Wesley Palmquist
CLINTON & ARLENE PARKS Fred & Sabine Bainum
ROGER & MELISSA REYNOLDS Steve & Paula Reynolds
MR. & MRS. RICK STEIPP Tom & Deb Steipp
WALT STEIPP
Tom & Deb Steipp
CAROL URANGA HOLLAND Lois Uranga
WILLIAM & TRACY URANGA Lois Uranga
ROGER WILLIAMS
John & Wendy Cadeddu Rand & Gerri Carlton
JERRY & DOLORES WITHERS (60TH Wedding Anniversary) Don & Linda Broesamle John & Katie Withers
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 will appear in our next issue.
Upcoming Events Events held at Conference Center unless otherwise noted.
2012
October
5–7 Fall Women’s Retreat 11 Hymn Sing 12–14 Fall Men | Ponderosa Lodge 19–21 Moms & Sons | Redwood Camp
November
2–4 Women’s Fall Reflective Retreat 2–4 Fall Frenzy—Junior High | Ponderosa Lodge 9–11 Women’s Fall Reflective Retreat 9–11 Fall Frenzy—Junior High | Ponderosa Lodge 22–25 Thanksgiving Family Camp 30–Dec 2 Fall Frenzy—High School | Ponderosa Lodge
December
6–9 Christmas Buffets & Concerts 7–9 Fall Frenzy—High School | Ponderosa Lodge 13–16 Christmas Buffets & Concerts
2013
February
15–18 All–Comer’s 22–24 Couples Conference 22–24 Dads and Sons | Redwood Camp
March
1–3 Law Enforcement Couples 8–10 Junior Getaway | Redwood Camp 15–17 Junior Getaway | Redwood Camp 15–17 Women’s Spring Reflective Retreat 20–22 Christian Writers Head–Start Clinic 22–26 Christian Writers Conference
April
5–7 Spring Womens Retreat 18, Hymn Sing 19–21 Moms and Daughters | Redwood Camp 22–25 Songwriters Conference 26–28 Couples Conference
May
3–5 The Church & Human Trafficking Conference 10 Day of Prayer Retreat 11 Redwood Camp Open House | Redwood Camp 12 Mother’s Day Service and Brunch 30 Hymn Sing 27
888.MH.CAMPS
po box 413 mount hermon, ca 95041
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mount Hermon Association, Inc.
Serving Country Serving Family Serving GOD. How can we serve them? Provide a Military Campership. Find out more. Contact Kerry in the Advancement Department, 831.430.1237 / advancement@mounthermon.org Copyright Š 2012 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. Cover Success! Steven Anderson Upcoming events Redwood
Camp Boy Bree Stevens | Dance! Ruth Nyquist | Families Cris Mendoza | Horses on the Trail Steven Anderson
The LOG is a biannual publication, printed on 70lb Grays Harbor 100% recycled FSC certified paper with a smooth finish, by Sentinel Printers, Santa Cruz, 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.
LOG Staff Executive Editor Lisa Olson Managing Editor Don Broesamle Graphic Designer Josh Bootz Assistant Layout Peter Thomsen Cat Herder Murphy Felton Copy Editors Cindy Ritchie Debbie Franck Murphy Felton Photographers Cris Mendoza Bree Stevens Steven Anderson Amy Sweetman Ruth Nyquist Dan Dawson John Ricketts