SEPTEMBER 2018 Camping and Retreat news In the first newsletter of each month, the UMCatalyst puts the spotlight on news and information about our Camp and Retreat Centers. Summer camp registration is open, and there are many new and exciting programs at all our sites.

Covenant Hills hosts church’s family retreat

August 2018 wound up with another church family retreat. This was this church’s fourth consecutive year at Covenant Hills. There were games and crafts and hula hoop contests. Friday evening we had the traditional big campfire with songs and s’mores under a nearly full moon shining over Vision Pond. On Saturday some folks hiked the mountain for fantastic views while others played soccer; the waterfront was the one of the most popular activities. The meals were voted the best and the weather was perfect.

After the retreat, the NOMADS (Nomads On a Mission Active in Divine Service) mission volunteers began arriving (see the photo above of their RVs next to Faith Lodge). The NOMAD team will be at camp for three weeks working on various projects. We are so blessed to have this team at camp.
 
See our short video about the NOMADS, who did work at Hope UMC in North Adams, MA, earlier this summer.
 

Rolling Ridge opens Center for Spirituality and Leadership

The new Center for Spirituality and Leadership at Rolling Ridge was inaugurated Labor Day weekend with a simulcast conference from the Center for Action and Contemplation featuring Richard Rohr. It was inspiring: Community was built and lives transformed. Come and check out the new meeting space, see the many improvements we've made, and discover all the new opportunities for spiritual growth being offered at the Ridge.
Rolling Ridge will celebrate its 70th anniversary on Sept. 30 with activities, tours, program, and a complimentary dinner for all. We will be recognizing Rolling Ridge’s former directors and unveiling some renovations around the fountain. Yes, we said the fountain. Come and be amazed at what God is doing at Rolling Ridge.
 

More than 100 participate in Wanakee 5 K

Thank you to all the individuals and organizations who supported the Wanakee Wilderness 5K! We raised over $12,400 in support of Wanakee's ministries, and welcomed over 100 runners for the second straight year. It was wonderful to see 165 familiar faces at the Homecoming BBQ! 
See photos and more
Retreat season is here! If your church, youth group, UMW, or Girl Scout Troop need a place to get away, connect with one another, and experience God's creation, limited space remains this fall! Contact the Wanakee office to discuss availability, options (meal service/programs), and our competitive pricing. We are also accepting winter bookings for ski weekends and winter retreats at the winterized Log Cabin. Reach us at mail@wanakee.org or (603) 279-7950.