Hello Friends!
Summer seems to go by faster than other seasons. In many conversations recently, the theme of “how is it August already?” has been a prevailing sentiment. In the world of Outdoor Ministry, summer is busier and more active, and we love that! Seeing so many “happy campers” on-site these past two months has filled our hearts with joy and renewed purpose.
We witness that time at camp does move differently. Our minds are not thinking about what is on the to-do list, not worrying or hurrying – but honestly living in the moment, truly being present with those around us, with nature, with God. A practice we know brings peace.
As we contemplate time – at a UCCI event, in our typical daily routines, as part of this moment in our country and the world – the Ancient Greek definitions of time make a lot of sense, especially Kairos time. Kairos means the right, critical or opportune moment as compared to Chronos time which is sequential. While Chronos is quantitative, Kairos has a qualitative, permanent nature. A moment of truth, a defining moment.
We invite you to live in the moment, step into time outside of time. It's time to experience Kairos at Moon Beach, Pilgrim Center, and Cedar Valley.
With love from all of us at UCCI!

|
|
New Managing Directors at Cedar Valley
Amid the passing of Rebecca Condé and the departure of Amy Damrow, God has blessed us with two new smiling faces at Cedar Valley. Michelle Spettel and Sam Emrick are the new Managing Directors at UCCI – Cedar Valley. Each brings unique experience, passion, and enthusiasm to their role.
Sam joined UCCI in the summer of 2020 as our first Outdoor Ministry Apprentice. He spent the past year learning hands-on about programming, facilities, planning, and teamwork and is excited about this new chapter. Sam is looking forward to strengthening his connection with this beautiful place. He shares, “It’s important to me that all are welcome to experience the wonder that is Cedar Valley.”
Michelle’s past work in nonprofit, people-centered organizations and her passion for the arts makes her a perfect fit for Cedar Valley. Michelle says, “It is beautiful to see how each job and every experience fits together like a puzzle and gives you what you need to move into your next opportunity to make an impact.” Michelle is excited to experience all that Cedar Valley has to offer and is looking forward to meeting the guests that make Cedar Valley a truly special place.
Both fully embrace the history of Cedar Valley and are dreaming big about its future! Join us in welcoming Michelle and Sam to their new roles and know that they are eager to welcome you to Cedar Valley.
|
|
Restoring Right Relationship with Mother Earth
Restoring Right Relationship with Mother Earth is a four-day immersion experience taking place October 7-10, 2021, at Pilgrim Center - UCCI. Attendees will explore how local churches will faithfully respond to calls for justice from Wisconsin’s Native American communities, care for creation, and work together for racial equity.
The program highlight will be a virtual keynote talk by Robin Wall Kimmerer, a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, botanist, and author of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants. Robin will speak on “What the Earth Asks of Us?”
UCCI is honored to participate and is deeply committed to this partnership and the work of racial justice.
|
|
Make the last official weekend of summer a really special one! Experience all the typical camp activities - swimming, hiking, campfires, quiet time - and take in some local bike trails or mini golf.
We have both skilled and unskilled tasks to be completed – from cabin maintenance, painting, plumbing and carpentry to stacking firewood, basic trail clearing and raking! Youth who are ready to learn responsibility, work ethic and good stewardship are welcome to attend with their parents/guardians.
|
|
We will host a variety of artisan breakout sessions like soap-making, bath-bomb-making, and watercolor painting. Full meals will be served of seasonal and local products to showcase nature's bounty. We are also excited to host a "progressive adventure meal", where each course comes from a different restaurant in the area.
Join us on beautiful Green Lake for a weekend packed full of fall activities. Carve pumpkins, make fall crafts, and enjoy hot apple cider around a roaring fire. This retreat offers families a time to connect and enjoy the beauty of nature in the fall while getting a break from the everyday stress of the world.
|
|
RETREATS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Cedar Valley would be the ideal location for your retreat, family reunion or special event. We can safely host and help you plan for your group. Give us a call or email to get started.
262-629-9202
|
|
You still have time to get a 2021 Fundraising T-shirt
There are a few of the 2021 Re-United t-shirts available in our online gift shop. Limited stock and sizes are going fast, so check it out today!
|
|
Social media is what we make of it. Fill your feed with joy and inspiration and Outdoor Ministry news! Check it out and join the fun! đź‘Ť |
|
THANK YOU FRIENDS for your continued support and prayers; we are grateful and we love you! |
|
United Church Camps Inc. | 800-683-UCCI
Cedar Valley: 262-629-9202 | 5349 County Road D West Bend, WI 53090
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
