The Pastor's corner for may, 2015

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I had intended to write my article for this newsletter when Jerry and I were on vacation. I knew we would be traveling in the car for a lot of miles, and I thought one of the things I could accomplish as a passenger on our 3000 mile trip was to write my article, but I didn't.  I did read a good book, enjoyed the scenery, ate junk food, and told Jerry where to go.
  
Now, I am glad that I didn’t get my article written because after listening to Maddie, the Southwest Regional Camp Ambassador, share with the congregation about camping, I knew what I wanted to write about – the joy of attending an Iowa United Methodist Camp. There are three United Methodist Camps and Retreat Centers across the state of Iowa: Okoboji in Spirit Lake, Pictured Rocks in Monticello, and Wesley Woods in Indianola. 

As I read through the 2015 Iowa United Methodist Camps Events Catalogue, I was amazed at the variety of activities offered at the camps – something for everyone! For those who love horses there is Horse Camp, Atomic Adventures Camp for those interested in science, Down on the Farm Camp for animal lovers.  Mud Poles & Fishing Camp is for those who love getting muddy and fishy. Stars Spectacular Camp is for star gazers.  At Bike Force Camp you will participate in a bike rodeo, and you can attend Roughin’ It and Toughin’ It if you love to canoe.  You can find even more camps in the catalogue.

There are full-week camps, half-week camps, overnight camps, and day camps. The day camps are for the young camper, ages four through six. And if you think you are too old for camp, think again! Grandparents, there is a camp for you, too. There is an overnight Grandparent/Child Camp where you can spend quality time with your grandchild fishing, swimming, horse riding, and hiking. And A Friend & Me Camp is a great camp for a parent and child to attend to enjoy the camping experience together. 
 
And as great as all of that sounds, the best part of attending a United Methodist Camp is the opportunity to experience the love of Jesus and to grow in faith together. Worship and Bible study are a part of the camping experience. 

Deke Rider, Wesley Woods Site Director, writes: “We believe in sharing with young people the presence of God’s love all around them. We share the stories from the Bible and our personal faith journeys as we encourage young people to ask themselves what they think and discover more about who God has created them to be.” 

The church has funds to help with the cost of attending camp thanks to your generous donations on Camping Sunday.

There are three ways to register for camp: Complete registration form in the camp catalogue, call 1-800-765-1651 to register by phone, or register online at www.IAUMC.org/camps.

Remember-


Iowa United Methodist Camps transform, grow, renew, 
and they have an adventure for you!

Blessings, 

Pastor Karen