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National United Methodist
Camp/Retreat Leaders' Gathering
Snow Mountain Ranch, near Winter Park, CO
Mark your calendar today! January 26-30, 2001
All camp/retreat staff and volunteers are invited to this premier training and spiritual renewal event. The theme, "Powerful Partnerships," draws us to the heart of camp/retreat ministry. We will explore our partnership with God in Christian faith formation, our partnership with the earth, and our partnership with others who address needs beyond the boundaries of our camp/retreat sites.
This event promises to be one of the best national gatherings ever. We are blessed to have outstanding plenary leaders who will stimulate our thinking and our spirits. Snow Mountain Ranch, a fantastic site operated by the YMCA, is located in the stunning natural environment of the Rocky Mountains. It is a wonderland of outdoor winter activity. The extensive Chaplains' program at Snow Mountain Ranch is led by a United Methodist camp/retreat leader who is eager to share a host of meaningful ideas and processes developed for staff and guests. Those interested in site operation aspects of camp/retreat ministry will find Snow Mountain Ranch a great place to learn.
Come meet the following plenary leaders, people of deep faith excited about the mission of camp/retreat ministry.Preachers
Bishop Ed Paup, currently serving in the Oregon-Idaho Conference and one of the bishops convinced of the importance of camp/retreat ministry. A passionate advocate of camp/retreat ministry, he is very approachable. You will enjoy his peaceful, caring presence and leadership.
Kevin Witt, National Director of United Methodist Camp/Retreat Ministry and co-author of Twists of Faith. Kevin will address the question "Who are we?" in a worship service centered on Tending the Common Ground.
Bible Study for Life
Ron Foster and Kenda Creasy Dean, co-authors of the very popular new book, The Godbearing Life. Intriguing Bible study leaders, they will inspire us to remember and live out of the core of our power and identity as Christian spiritual leaders.
Music & Worship
Jim and Jean Strathdee, gifted music leaders and songwriters who understand how music and worship shape people's lives. They are very familiar with camp/retreat settings and music and worship in outdoor settings.
Keynote Presenters
Ron Delbene has dedicated his life to helping people connect more deeply with God. He will lead us in a session for our own growth as spiritual leaders. A popular retreat leader, he is the author of many important books, e.g., Breath of Life, Hunger of the Heart, Alone with God, and Finding God in the Midst of Life.
Mary Elizabeth Moore, a distinguished theologian and educator with deep roots in camp/retreat ministry. Mary Elizabeth, author of Ministering with the Earth, calls us not only to care for the earth, but to engage with the earth in ministry.
Kelvin Sauls, a dynamic speaker with soul-moving insights into touching people's lives. He will speak to us about ways to be in service to the world through camp/retreat ministry.
In addition to the unparalleled opportunity to learn informally from your peers across the U.S, there will be meaningful seminars, e.g., Food Service, Facility/ Maintenance Management, Staff & Volunteer Development and Nurture, Teaching Winter Survival and Winter Ecology, Leading Nordic Activities, Today's Youth and Faith, Spiritual Self-Care, Being a Common Ground Center, Leading Music in Camp/Retreat Settings, Accomplishing Our Mission in Christian Hospitality, Director Training, Effective Camp/Retreat Boards and Committees, Partnering with Local Churches and Annual Conferences, In Search of Meaning, Abuse and Harassment Prevention, Programming for Adults and Families, Partnering with Ethnic Leaders and Communities, Risk Management and Standards, Serving Participants with Special Needs, Teaching Curriculum Development and Event Planning, The Bible in Camp/Retreat Ministries, Healthcare Providers, Eye-Opening Technology, Mission and Outreach through Camp/Retreat Ministry, Developing Programs and Resources in Environmental Justice, and Reduce-Reuse-Recycle.
Leaders from across the U.S. will describe "powerful partnerships" they have established that have made a huge difference in expanding and increasing the effectiveness of their camp/retreat ministries. You won t want to miss hearing about these creative ideas!
A wonderful community event is being planned that will enable participants to get out and enjoy this gorgeous outdoor setting or to relax and enjoy the company of friends new and old.
Registration fees and housing: The registration/ program fee will be $220-$250/person with discounts for children. Costs for lodging and meals will be paid directly to Snow Mountain Ranch and will be in the $165-$260 range for 4 nights and 11 meals, depending on accommodations chosen and number of people per room. Those who bring teams or who are willing to lodge with 4 or more people may be able to get an even lower rate for room and board. Participants will fly into Denver. Bus transportation will be available and is recommended (an additional fee that will be listed in the brochure).
Don't miss this experience! Watch your mail for the detailed brochure coming to you later this summer. Let us know of other names we should add to the mailing list to receive a brochure. Invite your colleagues and friends in camp/retreat ministry! It will be a powerful, renewing experience. For further information, contact Connie Schmutz, Event Registrar, toll-free (877) 899-2781 Ext. 7134, cshmutz@gbod.org. You may also contact Kevin Witt, kwitt@gbod.org or ktwjel@aol.com.
The launch of the first Camp/Retreat Ministry Certification Course is planned to coincide with the National Event.
Camp Memo 2000 PDF File
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