In this issue of The Friedensword, we publicly acknowledge individuals who over the past year have generously contributed as Builders of Camp Friedenswald. We also thank congregations who partner as Builders and elect to support Camp’s ministry as an extension of their own mission. Without your support we would not have been able to serve the thousands of guests and campers who found retreat, renewal and reconnection in the peaceful woods. In addition to the Builder’s projects listed within, please know that your words of encouragement and prayers sustain Camp staff and volunteers and motivate us to work hard to provide formative faith and life changing experiences throughout the year.

I also want to remember and honor Builders who died in the past year and generously supported Camp Friedenswald through gifts from their estate and by naming Camp as a recipient of memorial gifts. It’s with deep gratitude that we remember the lives of these individuals. We give thanks for the many ways  their lives were touched by experiences at Camp and for the way their generosity enabled others to have life changing experiences in the Peaceful Woods.

Having closed the books on another successful year, we now look forward, anticipating all of the opportunities that the future holds. Over the past several years, there has been a felt need for updates and renovations to a number of Camp’s aging facilities. Throughout 2015, the Camp Board and staff spent significant time and energy prioritizing needs through the lens of Camp’s core values and vision. This strategic planning work discerned three areas needing major focus: Boys’ Cabins, Chapel/Activity Center and Guest House. In the year ahead, I look forward to sharing more about developing plans for these areas and identify ways that you can become involved in this very important initiative.

On a personal note, several weeks ago my husband Peter and I celebrated our son Henry’s first birthday. This major milestone brought many reflective thoughts and made me acutely aware of the importance of preserving and perpetuating emotional and spiritual formative experiences that are woven into Camp’s programs, retreats and outdoor learning. Many generations of campers have had life changing experiences at Friedenswald. My hope and prayer is that Camp Friedenswald will be a part of Henry’s life and that he is able to experience the beauty of God’s creation and grow in his personal faith and walk with God. It will take the ongoing support from Camp’s Builders to make this a reality! 

Thank you for your continued support in the ministry of Camp Friedenswald.
Jenna Liechty Martin
Executive Director