On the heels of several days of poor air quality, the Builders gathered July 18-19 for a weekend of connecting with the peaceful woods and friends new and old. Following a strong line of stroms that moved through early afternoon, the skies cleared in time for an afternoon of programs and activities…
Remembering Hilary Bertsche: A Reflection on the impact of volunteers and camp staff across the decades
Earlier this spring I had the opportunity to attend a memorial service for Hilary Bertsche, a long-time friend and Builder of Camp Friedenswald. He was a true encourager and believed in the impact camp has on peoples’ lives, in part, I believe, because he knew the impact on his own life.
Reflections from Iowa: A gathering of Mennonite Camping Association
I didn’t anticipate experiencing such awe in Iowa (no offence, Iowans) – but I did! Underneath the expansive sky, I felt small. And yet, at the same time, part of something much bigger than myself.
Highlights of Builders Weekend 2025
On July 12-13, over 180 people gathered at camp for the annual Builders Weekend. It was a celebratory weekend, energy was high, and the stories of the summer – and…