The story is told (you’ll have to use your imagination for this one) of a small country church in Michigan that discovered Michigan crude under church property. If you’ve ever traveled through north central Michigan you might have seen some of those small oil wells pumping slowly but steadily away. A well was dropped and soon all the church’s bills were paid. Then a new church was built and a parsonage. The pastor got a raise and a church secretary was hired. The church doubled and quadrupled the money it sent away for mission work and to help the poor. And the well kept pumping.
A church meeting was held. What to do with all the money? A motion was made that when all the bills were paid, when all the mission money was sent away, whatever was left would be divided among the members. Motion carried. As the meeting was about to be adjourned old
Fred, a lifelong member of the church stood up and made another motion, “I move that we take in no new members until the well runs dry.”
I doubt there are many, if any, churches that don’t want to take in new members. It was and continues to be the directive of Jesus, “Go ye therefore…“ Matthew 28:18. It’s part of the Christian life, to bring others to know Christ and to be a part of the Holy Christian Church. Not only that, if a church doesn’t take in new members it probably won’t be around very long.
There are over 100 churches listed on the church page of the Bolivar Herald Free-Press (and many listed in local newspapers in Nebraska, as well). Thirty-nine of them have a Bolivar address. All different kinds: Baptist, Missionary Baptist, Fundamental Baptist, Southern Baptist, Bible Baptist, Berean Baptist, Assembly of God, Nazarene, Church of God, Church of Christ, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, United Methodist, Episcopal, Roman Catholic. There’s also a Community Church, a New life Community Church and a New Heart Foursquare Church, a Freshwater Church. (Forgive me if I left someone out.)
And last of all--Zion Lutheran. Zion is Missouri Synod Lutheran. There are also Wisconsin Synod Lutherans and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and other smaller groups of Lutherans.
Many of us go to the denomination we grew up in or married into. We go because that’s what we do. But what about those who don’t have a church, those we are called to reach out to? It must be pretty confusing to them. “There’s a Church of God and a Church of Christ. Isn’t Christ God?” “There are several that call themselves Christian Churches. Does that mean the others aren’t Christian?” “There are several Community churches. Do you have to live in that town to go there?” “There’s a Bible Church and an Open Bible Church. Don’t they all use the Bible?”
What’s in a name? Not much when it comes to churches. We all know what the name of our church means (at least I hope we do) and what we believe in our denomination. But how about someone who’s new to it all? And I remind us all again--these are the people we are to reach out to.
A friend of mine said, “When we go to heaven our denomination falls off and when we go to hell it burns off.”
No matter what denomination of Christianity, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. We all have the same responsibility of sharing our faith and spreading the Gospel. It is especially important that our pastors equip us so we can effectively explain what we believe and what our church has to offer as Baptist Christians, Methodist Christians, and whatever denomination of Christianity we are.
Peter put it this way: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15b.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
Editor's Letter October
Last month I was “challenged” by computer problems. Ultimately the experts found that I’d used up all the memory on my old computer, and that’s why it was giving me problems. Thankfully, they had a refurbished computer, with four times the memory, that was within my budget. I was very happy that they (“they” being Chopper’s Computers in Columbus) were able to transfer everything from my old computer, to the new (new to me) computer. The only thing I was unable to access was all of my accounting records, meaning I had to re-enter them all. I’d printed out all of the records just a few months ago so was able to get them all re-entered in just a few days. And my new computer works great!
Ecclesiastes tells us that ”There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). September seems to have been my time for breaking things. I was surprised to walk into our laundry room a few weeks ago into several inches of water…thankfully the washing machine just needed a minor part replaced.
Almost as soon as the washing machine was back in working order, the microwave made a scary “BZZZZT” noise and stopped working. We got by for several weeks…until the stove made a similar noise, followed by a “POP” and a little whisp of smoke…unfortunately the repair man said that there is no “repair” for the stove. I briefly considered challenging myself to cook for my family using only the George Foreman grill, griddle, and crock pot…but I think my family would quickly grow tired of that. We got a new microwave yesterday, and will be getting a new stove soon. (If you have any recommendations as to what brand to get, please let me know!)
One friend suggested that maybe the appliances breaking was my sign that I was supposed to take a break from laundry and cooking. Another friend, who was on a trip when all of this happened, texted me that she was glad that I wasn’t on the airplane with her as she was returning home!
I don’t know if there is a message in all of the things that have broken…but I do know that every time something works as it’s supposed to, I’m thankful!
Cody came home from college last weekend and we were all happy to see him. I’m not sure if he was happier to see us, or his cattle! He’s enjoying college life. Morgan has been very busy with her school activities and taking care of Cody’s cattle. The AK-SAR-BEN cattle show is this weekend, and we are all looking forward to it!
I really enjoyed putting together this issue of the Nebraska Family Times! The article Chocolate Covered Grace shows us all how God’s grace can cover all of our mess-ups and sins. Loving and Lumping reminds us that our actions can influence what others think of Christians.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. Neither of these topics are uplifting, but they are issues that are relevant to us all. I hope the articles in this issue of the Nebraska Family Times will increase your awareness and encourage action when needed.
Please continue to share your ideas for “Keeping Christ in Christmas”! I will share your ideas in the next two issues of the paper, so you can consider including some of them in your Christmas celebration.
May God bless you this fall!
It will be with relief that I click “Send” and get this last item of the paper sent in…and I hope that nothing else breaks for at least a few months!
Ecclesiastes tells us that ”There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). September seems to have been my time for breaking things. I was surprised to walk into our laundry room a few weeks ago into several inches of water…thankfully the washing machine just needed a minor part replaced.
Almost as soon as the washing machine was back in working order, the microwave made a scary “BZZZZT” noise and stopped working. We got by for several weeks…until the stove made a similar noise, followed by a “POP” and a little whisp of smoke…unfortunately the repair man said that there is no “repair” for the stove. I briefly considered challenging myself to cook for my family using only the George Foreman grill, griddle, and crock pot…but I think my family would quickly grow tired of that. We got a new microwave yesterday, and will be getting a new stove soon. (If you have any recommendations as to what brand to get, please let me know!)
One friend suggested that maybe the appliances breaking was my sign that I was supposed to take a break from laundry and cooking. Another friend, who was on a trip when all of this happened, texted me that she was glad that I wasn’t on the airplane with her as she was returning home!
I don’t know if there is a message in all of the things that have broken…but I do know that every time something works as it’s supposed to, I’m thankful!
Cody came home from college last weekend and we were all happy to see him. I’m not sure if he was happier to see us, or his cattle! He’s enjoying college life. Morgan has been very busy with her school activities and taking care of Cody’s cattle. The AK-SAR-BEN cattle show is this weekend, and we are all looking forward to it!
I really enjoyed putting together this issue of the Nebraska Family Times! The article Chocolate Covered Grace shows us all how God’s grace can cover all of our mess-ups and sins. Loving and Lumping reminds us that our actions can influence what others think of Christians.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. Neither of these topics are uplifting, but they are issues that are relevant to us all. I hope the articles in this issue of the Nebraska Family Times will increase your awareness and encourage action when needed.
Please continue to share your ideas for “Keeping Christ in Christmas”! I will share your ideas in the next two issues of the paper, so you can consider including some of them in your Christmas celebration.
May God bless you this fall!
It will be with relief that I click “Send” and get this last item of the paper sent in…and I hope that nothing else breaks for at least a few months!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Erstwhile Farm; "Helping you bring good food home"
Erstwhile Farm
“Helping you bring good food home.”
By Shelly Burke, Editor
The definition of “erstwhile” is former; of times past. Larry and Lanette Stec, owners of Erstwhile Farm, LLC, a small sustainable third generation family farm, have worked hard to combine farming practices of the past with modern business practices.
On a tour several weeks ago, it was easy to see that Larry and Lanette love what they are doing—raising hogs and chickens without added growth hormones or antibiotics. The animals live outside, on dirt, in the fresh air and sunshine.
Chickens live in a moveable coop (sometimes surrounded by a moveable fence so they don’t eat from the garden) so they always have access to fresh food and can wander at will. Hogs wallow happily in mud holes. The Stecs also have a large garden and grow certified grains. Crops are rotated to cut down on weeds and keep the soil healthy.
For most of their lives the Stecs have enjoyed country living. Several years ago they decided to go organic with their crops and raise outdoor hogs. Of their decision to change the focus to chemical and antibiotic-free “farm goodness,” Larry says, “We could see that if we wanted to continue to enjoy raising pigs, we would have to add value to what we were already producing, instead of becoming a larger farm. Making the change (to go organic) was a bit scary, as there was not a local mentor to guide us. We relied on the guidance of God, through the ups and downs, with faith that this was the right decision for us. We have seen God’s hand in how the land and animals can be healthy, naturally.”
The Stecs obviously enjoy the hard work of running a business. Their children, Kellan, age 23, and Bethany, 21, and Trevor, 18, helped with the “hands on” aspects of the farm—pulling weeds, sorting pigs—when they lived at home. Now Kellan is working on setting up a website for the business. Bethany contributes her photography talents in creating brochures and advertising. Trevor will go to college this fall.
The Stecs offer organic eggs for sale, as well as seasonable vegetables and different cuts of pork. Produce and eggs are sold from the farm and at several locations in Lincoln (see below for locations). Special orders are accepted.
Recently the Stecs added fresh pork brats to their line of products. Larry and Lanette experimented to get the recipes “just right” and worked many hours to get the recipes and package labels approved so they could sell the brats. They offer several varieties of brats and they are all delicious!
Erstwhile Farm is managed as farms in the past were managed, but Larry and Lanette are always looking ahead. Future goals include growing the business on a local scale and possibly by mail order. They are also doing a feasibility study and may become certified organic with their livestock.
For more information or to purchase products from Erstwhile Farm
Columbus Area: please call {(402) 897-4065} or e-mail erstwhilefarm@gmail.com, for on-farm pick up.
Lincoln Area: Items may be purchased at Open Harvest, 1618 E. South St., or Idea Grocery, 905 S. 27th St.
Greater Eastern Nebraska Nebraska Food Cooperative (http://www.nebraskafood.org/), online year-round farmers market and local food distribution service.
Erstwhile Farm is also on Facebook.
“Helping you bring good food home.”
By Shelly Burke, Editor
The definition of “erstwhile” is former; of times past. Larry and Lanette Stec, owners of Erstwhile Farm, LLC, a small sustainable third generation family farm, have worked hard to combine farming practices of the past with modern business practices.
On a tour several weeks ago, it was easy to see that Larry and Lanette love what they are doing—raising hogs and chickens without added growth hormones or antibiotics. The animals live outside, on dirt, in the fresh air and sunshine.
Chickens live in a moveable coop (sometimes surrounded by a moveable fence so they don’t eat from the garden) so they always have access to fresh food and can wander at will. Hogs wallow happily in mud holes. The Stecs also have a large garden and grow certified grains. Crops are rotated to cut down on weeds and keep the soil healthy.
For most of their lives the Stecs have enjoyed country living. Several years ago they decided to go organic with their crops and raise outdoor hogs. Of their decision to change the focus to chemical and antibiotic-free “farm goodness,” Larry says, “We could see that if we wanted to continue to enjoy raising pigs, we would have to add value to what we were already producing, instead of becoming a larger farm. Making the change (to go organic) was a bit scary, as there was not a local mentor to guide us. We relied on the guidance of God, through the ups and downs, with faith that this was the right decision for us. We have seen God’s hand in how the land and animals can be healthy, naturally.”
The Stecs obviously enjoy the hard work of running a business. Their children, Kellan, age 23, and Bethany, 21, and Trevor, 18, helped with the “hands on” aspects of the farm—pulling weeds, sorting pigs—when they lived at home. Now Kellan is working on setting up a website for the business. Bethany contributes her photography talents in creating brochures and advertising. Trevor will go to college this fall.
The Stecs offer organic eggs for sale, as well as seasonable vegetables and different cuts of pork. Produce and eggs are sold from the farm and at several locations in Lincoln (see below for locations). Special orders are accepted.
Recently the Stecs added fresh pork brats to their line of products. Larry and Lanette experimented to get the recipes “just right” and worked many hours to get the recipes and package labels approved so they could sell the brats. They offer several varieties of brats and they are all delicious!
Erstwhile Farm is managed as farms in the past were managed, but Larry and Lanette are always looking ahead. Future goals include growing the business on a local scale and possibly by mail order. They are also doing a feasibility study and may become certified organic with their livestock.
For more information or to purchase products from Erstwhile Farm
Columbus Area: please call {(402) 897-4065} or e-mail erstwhilefarm@gmail.com, for on-farm pick up.
Lincoln Area: Items may be purchased at Open Harvest, 1618 E. South St., or Idea Grocery, 905 S. 27th St.
Greater Eastern Nebraska Nebraska Food Cooperative (http://www.nebraskafood.org/), online year-round farmers market and local food distribution service.
Erstwhile Farm is also on Facebook.
Monday, August 2, 2010
A Retired Preacher's View from the Pew
A RETIRED PREACHER’S VIEW FROM THE PEW
On an early morning call a vet drove by a friend’s place and noticed he had herded his pigs into the front yard and they were eating apples that had fallen. Several days later when he drove by the farmer was picking up each of the pigs and holding them up to pick an apple from the tree.
An hour later when he drove back the farmer was lifting the last pig to get its apple.
He stopped and asked, “Fred, what are you doing?”
Fred, “The pigs liked the apples that fell to the ground so much that they ate them all, so I’m lifting them up so they can get them off the tree.”
“Isn’t that a lot of work, Fred?”
“I need the exercise.”
“But doesn’t that take a lot of time?”
“Just a couple of hours every day. Besides, what’s time to a pig?”
My Dad hated to get anywhere late, but especially church services. He would rather have been fifteen minutes early than one minute late. His feeling was that it’s pretty inconsiderate to make people wait for you when you’re late. (Yes, there are times it can’t be helped.) His attitude rubbed off on me.
Unfortunately, it’s not that way with everybody. But did you ever notice, often it’s the same people who are late over and over? There are some folks who will probably be late to their own funeral.
I have always considered the time we share worshipping together as one of the most important times, if not the most important time of the Christian’s week. If, as the Pastor, I didn’t think that, why would my parishioners? That time of corporate worship, whether it’s an hour or two hours, is precious, as is all our time.
Consider that the person who works all week takes the time to worship out of their free time.
Consider the farmer or the vet or the doctors and others who are “on call” 24/7. Consider the people who take time off from their job to attend church. (We know a lady who’s a really good cook in a small restaurant who takes time off from her job to go to church every Sunday. It was part of the agreement with her boss.) How about the Dad and Mom who work all week and on Saturday have to get all the shopping and chores done that keep the household running?
We sometimes attend a church which starts late so often that “late” has become “on time“.
Sometimes it’s only two or three minutes, more often, five or more. There might be a hundred people in their pews ready to go, but they all are expected to wait while the powers that be take their time getting their act together. While they’re taking their own time, they’re taking the time of the people waiting for them, too.
David wrote in the 29th Psalm:
Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name;
worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.
More importantly, what does it say about us and our attitudes toward the glory and splendor of God and worshipping Him when we can’t even start on time?
-----------
Allen Geil is a retired pastor/teacher/hog farmer who lived in Nebraska for 18 years and now lives in Missouri.
On an early morning call a vet drove by a friend’s place and noticed he had herded his pigs into the front yard and they were eating apples that had fallen. Several days later when he drove by the farmer was picking up each of the pigs and holding them up to pick an apple from the tree.
An hour later when he drove back the farmer was lifting the last pig to get its apple.
He stopped and asked, “Fred, what are you doing?”
Fred, “The pigs liked the apples that fell to the ground so much that they ate them all, so I’m lifting them up so they can get them off the tree.”
“Isn’t that a lot of work, Fred?”
“I need the exercise.”
“But doesn’t that take a lot of time?”
“Just a couple of hours every day. Besides, what’s time to a pig?”
My Dad hated to get anywhere late, but especially church services. He would rather have been fifteen minutes early than one minute late. His feeling was that it’s pretty inconsiderate to make people wait for you when you’re late. (Yes, there are times it can’t be helped.) His attitude rubbed off on me.
Unfortunately, it’s not that way with everybody. But did you ever notice, often it’s the same people who are late over and over? There are some folks who will probably be late to their own funeral.
I have always considered the time we share worshipping together as one of the most important times, if not the most important time of the Christian’s week. If, as the Pastor, I didn’t think that, why would my parishioners? That time of corporate worship, whether it’s an hour or two hours, is precious, as is all our time.
Consider that the person who works all week takes the time to worship out of their free time.
Consider the farmer or the vet or the doctors and others who are “on call” 24/7. Consider the people who take time off from their job to attend church. (We know a lady who’s a really good cook in a small restaurant who takes time off from her job to go to church every Sunday. It was part of the agreement with her boss.) How about the Dad and Mom who work all week and on Saturday have to get all the shopping and chores done that keep the household running?
We sometimes attend a church which starts late so often that “late” has become “on time“.
Sometimes it’s only two or three minutes, more often, five or more. There might be a hundred people in their pews ready to go, but they all are expected to wait while the powers that be take their time getting their act together. While they’re taking their own time, they’re taking the time of the people waiting for them, too.
David wrote in the 29th Psalm:
Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name;
worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.
More importantly, what does it say about us and our attitudes toward the glory and splendor of God and worshipping Him when we can’t even start on time?
-----------
Allen Geil is a retired pastor/teacher/hog farmer who lived in Nebraska for 18 years and now lives in Missouri.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
August Editor's Letter
We have had a great summer so far! Morgan was the Grand Champion Intermediate Showman at the Charolais Jr. National Show in South Dakota, and Cody had the Grand Champion Steer at the Platte County Fair! It was a great way for him to end his county fair career—he will be too old to show at the fair next year. Tim and I really enjoyed watching both kids compete; the competition was tough in both events. And we also watched them enjoy time with their friends before and after the shows.
Big changes are ahead for our family; Cody will leave for college (he’s going to Kansas State University) in August. He’s excited to start this new stage in his life. We will miss him but we’re also excited for him. Morgan has been busy with FFA and FBLA meetings and she’s getting excited to start her junior year. She’s ridden her horse, Maggie, several times this summer. It’s fun to watch them ride across the pasture.
Tim is busy preparing for the club calf internet sale Sept. 12th. All the cattle will have pictures and a short video on the internet. This technology makes it easy for people from anywhere in the country to view the cattle and bid.
August is a big “anniversary” month for our family. Tim and I will celebrate our 21st anniversary on August 5th; my mom and dad will be married 45 years on August 21st, and my Grandma and Grandpa Christian will celebrate 68 years together on August 19th. Our family is blessed to have examples of enduring marriages.
I really enjoyed putting together this issue of the Nebraska Family Times! You’ll find a wide variety of articles about both local and national events.
I would like to encourage every mom of pre-school aged children to consider joining a MOPS group (you’ll find an article about MOPS in the paper this month). I was a member of the first MOPS group in the Columbus area, when Morgan was in pre-school. I so enjoyed meeting other Christian moms and sharing both joys and challenges with them. It was reassuring to talk with the other moms at MOPS and realize that no matter what I’d done, or what one of my kids had done, someone else had had the same experience. Many friends I made in MOPS are still friends today.
This is the final month the Reader Questionnaire will appear in the paper; please fill it out so I can produce a paper that you will enjoy, and that will “encourage, inspire, and motivate you” in your Christian walk. Thanks to all who have already filled out and returned their questionnaire.
If you would like an extra copy of the Nebraska Family Times to share with a friend, call or e-mail. I’ll be happy to send up to 5 copies (at no charge) for you to share.
Enjoy the rest of summer, and God’s blessings to everyone who reads the Nebraska Family Times!
Big changes are ahead for our family; Cody will leave for college (he’s going to Kansas State University) in August. He’s excited to start this new stage in his life. We will miss him but we’re also excited for him. Morgan has been busy with FFA and FBLA meetings and she’s getting excited to start her junior year. She’s ridden her horse, Maggie, several times this summer. It’s fun to watch them ride across the pasture.
Tim is busy preparing for the club calf internet sale Sept. 12th. All the cattle will have pictures and a short video on the internet. This technology makes it easy for people from anywhere in the country to view the cattle and bid.
August is a big “anniversary” month for our family. Tim and I will celebrate our 21st anniversary on August 5th; my mom and dad will be married 45 years on August 21st, and my Grandma and Grandpa Christian will celebrate 68 years together on August 19th. Our family is blessed to have examples of enduring marriages.
I really enjoyed putting together this issue of the Nebraska Family Times! You’ll find a wide variety of articles about both local and national events.
I would like to encourage every mom of pre-school aged children to consider joining a MOPS group (you’ll find an article about MOPS in the paper this month). I was a member of the first MOPS group in the Columbus area, when Morgan was in pre-school. I so enjoyed meeting other Christian moms and sharing both joys and challenges with them. It was reassuring to talk with the other moms at MOPS and realize that no matter what I’d done, or what one of my kids had done, someone else had had the same experience. Many friends I made in MOPS are still friends today.
This is the final month the Reader Questionnaire will appear in the paper; please fill it out so I can produce a paper that you will enjoy, and that will “encourage, inspire, and motivate you” in your Christian walk. Thanks to all who have already filled out and returned their questionnaire.
If you would like an extra copy of the Nebraska Family Times to share with a friend, call or e-mail. I’ll be happy to send up to 5 copies (at no charge) for you to share.
Enjoy the rest of summer, and God’s blessings to everyone who reads the Nebraska Family Times!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Camp Luther; "Faith, Fun, and Friends"
Camp Luther
“Faith, Fun, and Friends”
by Shelly Burke, Editor
“Faith, Fun, and Friends” is the theme of Camp Luther this year, and more than 400 campers will experience faith, fun, and friends as they take part in various camps this summer.
Camp Luther is located 5 miles north of Highway 30 between Columbus and Schuyler.
Camp Luther's site is about an hour and a half drive from Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, and about an hour from Norfolk, York, and Seward.
Hank Rausch, Executive Director of Camp Luther, says, “Camp Luther is a small, personal camp that emphasizes relationships between the campers and other campers, campers and staff members, and most importantly, campers and their faith.” During the day campers may spend Time Alone With God (TAWG), and each day includes Bible study and campfire devotions. (Camp Luther is a Service Organization of the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, but its programs are open to all).
According to Rausch, 50-75% of summer staff members are former campers who have come back to be counselors, because of the positive experiences they had at Camp Luther and the relationships they built during those years.
During the summer campers are offered a wide variety of camps from which to choose; as well as traditional camps for grades 1-10, guests may attend Parent/Child Camp, Grandparent/Grandchild Camp, Family Camp, and Adult Summer Activities. Specialty camps cater to those interested in sports, science, survival skills, and volunteer opportunities. Rausch was quick to point out that although there is a charge for attending camp, no child will ever be turned away due to lack of funds.
Campers spend their time outdoors on bike trails, swimming, taking part in hot dog roasts, and participating in other outdoor activities. Many camps include a night camping outside (although all the rain this summer has made that difficult during some weeks!).
A Special Needs Camp is offered for developmentally challenged individuals age 13-adult. During the Special Needs Camp, each camper is paired with a buddy to help them make the most of their experience.
Camp Luther isn’t just for camping; events take place throughout the year. Activities scheduled for this fall include a Men’s Ministry Retreat, Outdoor Education for Small Schools, a Jr. High Retreat, and Women’s Scrapbooking Retreat. Buildings are available for rental (for group meetings or wedding receptions, for example), and camping facilities are also available.
Volunteer opportunities are available for adults who would like to help out with meals or assisting with maintenance during a camp. Junior Servants may volunteer to help wherever needed. Volunteers can help with projects during the year, or donate money or specific items.
For more information about camps, other activities, or volunteering or making a donation, see the website (www.campluther.org) or call (402) 352-5655.
“Faith, Fun, and Friends”
by Shelly Burke, Editor
“Faith, Fun, and Friends” is the theme of Camp Luther this year, and more than 400 campers will experience faith, fun, and friends as they take part in various camps this summer.
Camp Luther is located 5 miles north of Highway 30 between Columbus and Schuyler.
Camp Luther's site is about an hour and a half drive from Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, and about an hour from Norfolk, York, and Seward.
Hank Rausch, Executive Director of Camp Luther, says, “Camp Luther is a small, personal camp that emphasizes relationships between the campers and other campers, campers and staff members, and most importantly, campers and their faith.” During the day campers may spend Time Alone With God (TAWG), and each day includes Bible study and campfire devotions. (Camp Luther is a Service Organization of the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, but its programs are open to all).
According to Rausch, 50-75% of summer staff members are former campers who have come back to be counselors, because of the positive experiences they had at Camp Luther and the relationships they built during those years.
During the summer campers are offered a wide variety of camps from which to choose; as well as traditional camps for grades 1-10, guests may attend Parent/Child Camp, Grandparent/Grandchild Camp, Family Camp, and Adult Summer Activities. Specialty camps cater to those interested in sports, science, survival skills, and volunteer opportunities. Rausch was quick to point out that although there is a charge for attending camp, no child will ever be turned away due to lack of funds.
Campers spend their time outdoors on bike trails, swimming, taking part in hot dog roasts, and participating in other outdoor activities. Many camps include a night camping outside (although all the rain this summer has made that difficult during some weeks!).
A Special Needs Camp is offered for developmentally challenged individuals age 13-adult. During the Special Needs Camp, each camper is paired with a buddy to help them make the most of their experience.
Camp Luther isn’t just for camping; events take place throughout the year. Activities scheduled for this fall include a Men’s Ministry Retreat, Outdoor Education for Small Schools, a Jr. High Retreat, and Women’s Scrapbooking Retreat. Buildings are available for rental (for group meetings or wedding receptions, for example), and camping facilities are also available.
Volunteer opportunities are available for adults who would like to help out with meals or assisting with maintenance during a camp. Junior Servants may volunteer to help wherever needed. Volunteers can help with projects during the year, or donate money or specific items.
For more information about camps, other activities, or volunteering or making a donation, see the website (www.campluther.org) or call (402) 352-5655.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Cody's Last Platte County Fair
It was a day filled with bittersweet feelings. Cody showed today for the last time at the Platte County Fair. Cody first showed at the county fair when he was only 8 years old. We have so many wonderful memories of the fair--showing cattle, fun times with friends, and the weather--it's almost always steaming hot during the county fair.
Today Cody showed Crash, and Crash was named Champion Market Steer! Cody had never had the Champion steer at the county fair this year, and it was a great way to end his county-fair career.
Today Cody showed Crash, and Crash was named Champion Market Steer! Cody had never had the Champion steer at the county fair this year, and it was a great way to end his county-fair career.
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