PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES
NOVEMBER, 2009 —
5
“as a camper for five years, Camp Hanover was one of the most unforgettable experiences in my life.”
Disc Golf at Camp Hanover Becomes a Reality By Aaron Houghton
Last January . . . I way playing a round of disc golf with a few buddies from camp. We were joking around about how awesome it would be to build a disc golf course at camp. I began, just for fun, to sketch course designs, write project proposals, get price quotes, and prepare to present the idea to the Camp Hanover Program Committee. I was pleasantly surprised when they too, got excited about it. I spent the next couple of months making trips out to camp to walk the grounds and finalize the designs. My brother and I would throw discs down possible fairways at imaginary baskets (giddy with excitement). Thanks to “hole sponsorships” from generous donors, my father, my brother Jon, and I installed 9 beautiful Innova Discatcher baskets to complete the “front 9” one week before camp started. I’m not just saying this because I designed
Ordination of Katherine Nguyen By Nancy Ferguson
The evening of September 6, 2009, was an occasion of great importance in the life of Camp Hanover. Presbytery of the James, acting through an administrative commission, ordained Katherine Todd Nguyen to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. Friends and family of Katherine and of camp gathered in the field outside Knoxwood for a welcome and call to worship. Then the group processed together to the Senior Vesper Dell for the remainder of the service which included music, praise, thanksgiving and joyful voices. Bob Pryor charged Katherine to give thanks in all things and reminded the camp community of Katherine’s long and faithful journey to this day and of the gifts she brings to the ministry of Camp Hanover. The Rev. Beverly Bullock preached a sermon written by Katherine’s friend, Catherine Askew, who was unable to attend the service. The service concluded with the sharing of the Lord’s Table led by former day camp director, Nancy Ferguson, as candles cast welcoming shadows across the increasing darkness. The Rev. Katherine Todd Nguyen offered the closing benediction and all those gathered were invited to a celebration reception. Thanks be to God!
Family and friends gather for ordination
it but . . . it is one of the best looking courses I have ever seen. Watching the campers and counselors enjoy using the course was rewarding. It really feels good to know that I was able to share my time and talents to give something back to camp. If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to plan a visit to camp to play disc golf! If you would like to help us finish the course, we are still welcoming donations to help fund the course or to sponsor a hole. Thanks for your support . . . and do enjoy!
MAD Camp Testimony Amelia Adair is a long time Hanover camper who is a member of the Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church. She participated in the inaugural MAD for God camp and was happy to share her feelings about that experience.
Singing, laughing, learning, and making long-lasting friendships filled my amazing two weeks at the new MAD Camp. I learned that when we sang at worship, it was not a performance whereas we were there to help other people come closer to God. Of course not all of us were pro- Amelia Adair fessionals at our craft, whether it was playing a musical instrument, singing, dancing or acting. However, we helped each other grow as Christians and artists. Our counselors were very encouraging and helped us branch out of our comfort zone, too. We shared our talents all over camp, from Wise Lodge to the lake. Being a new group at camp, everyone was very accepting. We also got to participate in regular camp activities as well, such as the rock wall, overnights, swimming, and the high ropes course. I would love to encourage anyone who loves their craft and God to experience some camp-style fun at MAD Camp!
Campers enjoying new disc golf course.
Winter Camp . . . who could ask for more! Come to Winter Camp and enjoy a winter getaway with summer friends and new faces. Get to know your small group, and gather as one to hear the theme, Break Through, from a new perspective. Our keynoters, Aaron, Ben, and Jon Houghton are sure to spice up winter camp with their humor, gifts, and love of God. This popular camp often fills up before deadline so register early! When: December 28-30, 2009 / 9am Monday – 2pm Wednesday Who: 5th – 12th Graders Where: Camp Hanover Cost: $150 / camper (POJ members receive $30 discount) Register: online @ www.camphanover.org (payment in full) or register by mail & hold your spot with a non-refundable deposit of $50. To receive a paper registration form, call us at 1-877OUR-CAMP. Deadline: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 Questions: Contact us! Local – 804-7792811 / Toll Free – 1-877-OUR-CAMP or email info@camphanover.org