OUR MISSION:
We serve and encourage Christian Ministries to fulfill the commandments of Jesus Christ
| | SOWER Ministry Newsletter September 2026 | | |
Greetings!
SeptemBER! Yes, we've entered the "Ber" months! While there isn't much brrrr here in Texas just yet, there's always something fresh and hopeful about September, isn't there? We may be back to planning our errands around the school bus schedule, but just as God has promised, the mornings are a little brisker, the days are still warm enough for shorts and tees, and the evenings have us reaching for a light sweater. Are the trees beginning to hint at oranges and reds where you are? Apples and mums are appearing at roadside stands—can the pumpkins be far behind?
Just as the seasons of nature change, so do the seasons of our lives. Some of you are preparing for your very first season of serving with SOWERs, while others of us are settling into our new role as Alumni. And for those somewhere in between, the anticipation of another project season still stirs our hearts. Whatever season God has us in, what a blessing it is to serve Him through this ministry.
September also brings the SOWER Trustee Meeting here in Lindale, TX. As the Board welcomes three new Trustees—Ray Arthur, Rob Schildroth, and Rick Pack—it also says goodbye to three faithful servants who have completed their terms. Our sincere thanks to Brad Smith, Carolyn Strausser, and Floyd Adcock for their dedicated service to this ministry.
There are exciting days ahead for SOWERs, and many of the plans for the coming year begin taking shape during this meeting. Please join me in praying for our Trustees—that God would grant them wisdom, unity, and discernment as they seek His direction for the future of our ministry.
Resting in His Grace,
Stephanie
For the Newsletter Team
Sharon Hoyt, Stephanie Conrad & Lou Blount
newsletter@sowerministry.org
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From Where I Sit
by Office Managers Gail Fieler & Katie Gay
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Dear SOWER family,
YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE – from two of our July camp project hosts ………….
- Between mowing, laundry, cutting and assembling trailhead signs, and delivering food to one of our camps, the SOWERs were a blessing to our ministry. This summer we served almost 7,000 campers so far, and captured data shows we had 102 first-time salvations, 405 rededications, and 131 called to ministry. SOWERs contributed to this Kingdom impact.
- Another project reports 120 salvations and 225 recommitments from their busy summer season. SOWERs help that happen!
REMINDERS... Please read the Ministry Info on a project before you sign up. Some contain information on pets, additional background checks needed, tricky directions, a change from “normal” SOWER hours, etc.
REMEMBER: Cancelling a project within the six weeks before the project start date means that you will not be able to be assigned to a new project for that same month. (Pg 7 of the Member Guidelines)
WALKING (& DRIVING) BILLBOARDS: It is amazing how many inquiries about the ministry we get from people who have seen a decal on a truck or someone wearing one of our SOWER shirts. Our merchandise shelves are full! You can find pictures and order forms by going to Forms and Docs/Promotional Items/Merchandise Order Form or SOWER Merchandise. Let’s continue to get the word out and encourage others to join in serving the Lord through SOWERs.
As always, thank you for your Kingdom service!
Katie & Gail
Got Questions? The office is happy to help!
903-882-8070(land line--no texts)
sowers@sowerministry.org
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A Heartfelt Thank You for Your Faithful Service-from the Board of Trustees
As we reflect on another incredible year of service, our hearts are filled with gratitude for each and every one of you. Your unwavering dedication, hard work, and faithful service to the Lord continue to be the heartbeat of this ministry. We know that following the call often means navigating long stretches of highway—frequently amid fluctuating and high gas prices—yet you continually show up with servant hearts, blessing countless camps, communities, and organizations along the way. Thank you for your tireless labor and the miles you have traveled for His kingdom.
Progress and Purpose This Year
Over the past year, our board has focused heavily on initiatives designed to strengthen our Ministry from the inside out and better support our SOWER Family:
- Greater Unity: We have intentionally worked to bring our membership and board closer together, fostering a unified spirit across every project and location.
- Website Improvements: We are continuing to enhance our website to make it more user-friendly, ensuring it serves as a valuable, easy-to-navigate resource for all members.
- Document Streamlining: To save you time and eliminate guesswork, we are actively organizing and consolidating our documents. Our goal is to put answers in one convenient place so you can easily find what you need and get back to the work at hand. This is an ongoing process but one that will be completed.
These endeavors, alongside many other ongoing projects, situations, and day-to-day operations that we couldn't possibly list here, certainly make our job as a board a busy one—but serving this incredible Ministry makes every moment worthwhile.
An Open Door and an Open Heart
Transparency and open communication remain among our highest priorities. We have strived to be as clear and accessible as possible, working hard to answer any questions that arise. More than anything, we want you to know that our door—and our ears—are always open. We would love to hear from any member, at any time, about anything on your heart.
Your board is here to serve you and to support this ministry every step of the way. Once again, thank you for who you are and all that you do!
God bless you all,
Your Ministry Board
Dick Webster, President
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Clicking on the apple pie will take you to the SOWER website, where you can sign on to the Member Dashboard to get "Real Time" updates for our ministry projects' needs, sign up for projects, and maintain your account.
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Are the SOWER Emails Finding You?
The SOWER Office sends emails to members throughout the year with important information, reminders, announcements, and updates. But sometimes those emails seem to disappear into thin air.
Are you receiving emails from the SOWER Office?
Take a quick peek through your inbox—and don’t forget to check your spam or junk folder. An email from SOWERs was sent to you the same day this newsletter was sent to you. If you haven’t seen any recent emails from the office, please check the email address you have listed with us by going to your Member Dashboard/My Account/My Profile to make sure it is correct. You may make any necessary changes there or by contacting the office at sowers@sowerministry.org.
And remember, the newsletter and office emails come through different systems. So getting one doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting the other.
We’re just making sure all our SOWERs are in the loop and in the know!
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Annual Registration and SOWER Alumni
Have you signed up yet?
Annual Registration for 2027 began on July 1st. Look at your SOWER dashboard for the prompt to complete your annual registration and skill sheet. This annual registration must be completed before you will be able to sign up for any 2027 projects. If you are a 'retired' SOWER, but still want access to the Members page, you need to complete the annual registration each year.
It's not too late to register and find a place to serve in 2027!
Let the office know via email whenever you have changes in contact information or if you wish to change your status from Alumni to Active.
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New Links Make the Member Website Easier
We’ve added more active links to the SOWER Member Website, making it easier to get from place to place, especially when you’re using your cell phone and the whole screen doesn’t fit at once.
For example, project addresses are now linked to Google Maps. Just click the address and you can quickly see exactly where the project is located. Who knows? Maybe seeing where it is will inspire you to come join us!
But here’s your friendly warning: Some projects tell us, “DON’T USE GOOGLE! Use our directions instead.” Google may send our RVs down roads that are too small, too tricky—or even blocked by a gate! Always check the Site Directions on the Ministry Information Page before finalizing your route.
More Links to Look For:
- SOWER number → takes you to the Member Detail page
- Project number → takes you to the Ministry Home Page
- Project and member addresses → open the location in Google Maps
- Anything highlighted in blue → give it a click and see where it takes you.
So next time you’re on the Member Website, look for the blue and click away! You may find getting around the site is easier than ever.
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Warm Beach Camp Ministries WA-255
Stanwood, WA
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Come Home for the Holidays to Warm Beach
Warm Beach Conference Center has been a long-standing SOWER project. We recently received a letter from Alumnae Jack and Claudia Jalo (2575) with an urgent request for this fall and winter.
"I'm writing about Warm Beach Conference Center WA 255. We served there 11 out of 12 years. A friend of ours is a retired staff member with whom we keep in contact. She informed us that this project is desperately underserved. They had one SOWER couple there in July, one SOWER couple that had to cancel for August, and two SOWER couples scheduled for September. They are preparing for their "Lights of Christmas" extravaganza. They could use SOWERs in October, but the real need is in November for final touches to the displays, and in December for help with staff for the actual event. We always served there in November, and always had 4 to 6 SOWER couples. They have adequate SOWER sites and a SOWER cabin for devotions and fellowship. This event draws thousands of people to the camp, exposing them to the many year-round events available to both families and children of all ages. We believe that this is a very worthy project that we pray for regularly."
Jack and Claudia Jalo (2575)
Warm Beach is requesting four SOWER couples each month from September through December 2026. In addition, they are requesting one SOA from October 2026-January 2027. In the project notes, the camp has some extra info for us:
You will be the face of The Lights of Christmas and will join our staff nightly for devotions, dinner, and in lavishly presenting the Christmas story to our community. December in Washington is generally damp and cool but not usually frozen. We would like to invite any SOWERs who HAVE WORKED WITH US IN THE PAST, to come in December with or without your rig (We have rooms available) for as little as one weekend and as much as the whole month to experience The Lights of Christmas and help us staff it. Home project for Ed & Cherri Addicks (4141)
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Have you checked out the
Underserved Project List lately?
If you've served at one recently, we'd love to feature it in an upcoming newsletter. So send in some highlights along with a couple of pictures to newsletter@sowerministry.org to help get it OFF the list!
If you are the AR of one, please send us a recent report with some photos so we can get the word out.
| | SOWER Stories and Testimonies | | |
The God who goes before us
When I approached the Trustees in 2011 about starting a monthly newsletter, they said, “Sure, feel free to give it a try!” Thanks to the contributions of so many of you over the past 15 years, that little newsletter has grown into one of the primary communication tools for our ministry. I can only give God the glory for using all of you to help fill those columns each month.
Several years ago, as we began winding down our SOWER time, I started praying not only about “What’s next?” for us, but also “What’s next?” for the newsletter. I know many of you were praying as well. I quietly planted a few seeds, and while a couple of people expressed interest, nothing came together. So I simply kept going, trusting that God would provide the right people at the right time.
And, as always, He did.
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First, He brought Sharon. From a hesitant, “I don’t really know anything about the newsletter, but I’m willing to learn,” she has gracefully stepped into the driver’s seat. She is creative, organized, and disciplined. Then God brought Lou, who generously offered to help wherever needed. She has quickly learned the process and now contributes her gifts in design and editing each month. Both women have become not only valued teammates, but dear friends. And behind the scenes, Janelle has taken over our email maintenance. What blessings!
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But wait – there’s more! God took care of something I never even thought to pray about. Although our ministry members span all of North America, He brought someone who lives just ten minutes away! Sharon and I can often sit around the same table to work on the newsletter, and when Lou is in the area, we enjoy working together as well.
We truly serve a God who goes before us and answers prayers in ways far better than we imagine. May He continue to receive all the glory for the newsletter.
Continuing to marvel at His Grace,
Stephanie
PS There's still room for growth here! Contact the Newsletter Team to join this exciting part of the ministry.
| | Do you have a SOWER testimony of God's power and protection as you served? Or a SOWER story? Please share it with us at: newsletter@sowerministry.org | |
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100 PROJECTS!!
In June, Jim and Linda Knapp (3242) served their 100th project at Brown City Camp (MI-286) in Michigan. Brown City Camp was honored to help them celebrate. They were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from SOWER President Dick Webster, along with stars commemorating 100 projects for their nametags.Their names have also been added to the 100 Project plaque at the SOWER office. What a wonderful accomplishment for a hard-working couple!
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200 PROJECTS!!
Several SOWER couples and Horton Haven Camp (TN-223) staff gathered to honor Keith and Ann Hawver (#2779) for reaching their 200th project milestone. Their names have been added to the 200 Project bench at the SOWER Hospitality House. What a blessing to share this day with them and hear words of wisdom and encouragement from a couple who has been serving for 20 years!
| | | Area Representative and Sponsor Needs | | |
We are still in need of an Area Representative(s) for the projects in Alaska:
AK-#43 Solid Rock Bible Camp
AK-#288 Camp LI- WA, Victory Ministries of Alaska
AK-#532 Victory Bible Camp
An Area Representative (AR) plays a vital role in the success of the SOWER ministry. Each AR serves as the main contact for one or more projects (ideally no more than six) and is responsible for answering questions, offering encouragement, and conducting at least one annual visit to each project. ARs also help evaluate potential new projects by visiting and assessing their ministries and facilities.
Contact Jim Haney for more information!
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Sponsor needed for potential new project:
Camp Tadmor-Lebanon, OR
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We are pleased to announce that the SOWER Project Committee has selected a potential new project: Camp Tadmor in Lebanon, OR. Camp Tadmor is a 200+ acre forested camp in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains with a four-acre lake, miles of hiking trails, and indoor and outdoor meeting spaces to accommodate up to 345 people. Camp Tadmor has been serving its local community for over 50 years, allowing church groups, civic groups, outdoor schools, and family groups to find space to be refreshed, grow closer to and worship our Lord, while enjoying God’s abundant creation. Camp Tadmor offers fun, gospel-centered summer camps for those entering 3rd grade through high school, as well as special events throughout the year. Camp Tadmor puts a special emphasis on providing Ministry Training for its Summer Staff during the summer months. The Summer staff high schoolers and young adults receive concentrated, hands-on training in ministry, discipleship, and service while they work at Camp Tadmor.
However, this project can't be approved and go on our roster of active projects until a SOWER couple volunteers to be a sponsor. Please prayerfully consider being a SOWER Sponsor for this worthy camp.
Project sponsors commit to promoting the project to other SOWERs and serving there at least 2 months in the first 2 years. They also help the new ministry get a better understanding of the SOWER ministry and how we operate. So, if you would like to help this ministry get started with us, please call or email Jim Haney.
| | Seen Recently on Facebook | | Hard work done at Miracle Mountain Ranch(PA-514) in Spring Creek, PA. Go to the Facebook SOWER page and check out those extra 31 pictures full of beautiful smiles, work and fun! Miracle Mountain Ranch still needs 4 couples in October. Check out their website to see the beautiful fall colors! | | |
Have You Stopped by Our Facebook Group Lately?
Our private SOWER Facebook group is a place to stay connected, share blessings, and encourage one another as we serve the Lord alongside our ministry partners.
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Ministry Facebook Pages
Many of our partner ministries have their own Facebook pages--check them out to stay updated on the places you love to serve.
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Thank You!
Thank you to everyone who has "liked" or "followed" our SOWER Facebook Page -- we now have over 2000 followers! If you haven't yet, head over and give it a thumbs-up to help spread the word about our ministry.
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Sharing at Minnesota County Fairs!
Wes and Carolyn Strausser (#3369), along with a wonderful team of volunteers, had a great time sharing the SOWER ministry at two Minnesota county fairs this summer—the Wright County Fair and the Martin County Fair. They enjoyed telling visitors about the joy of serving with SOWERs and the many needs of our ministry partners.
One especially encouraging conversation was with a couple currently serving as missionaries in Japan, who were excited to learn that SOWERs could be a meaningful way to continue serving once they return to the U.S.
Many fairgoers were already familiar with SOWERs and appreciated the opportunity to learn more firsthand. Others were excited to discover how retirement and an RV lifestyle can open the door to serving together through SOWERs.
Volunteers (from top left) Kyle Rippentrop (3113), Kermit & Robbin Carlson (4130), Scott Peters (4194), Starr & Dennis Babcock (3862), (Center) Wes and Carolyn Strausser (3369).
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What a great idea to have a booth at a local fair! Thank you for putting those two events together, Wes and Carolyn! And thanks to the volunteers who joined in to help.
Do you have a church or community event where YOU could share our SOWER Ministry? The office has many promotional supplies that they are happy to provide for these events!
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Let us not forsake gathering together!
SOWER Gatherings - A Time of Refreshing
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Tennessee Picnic!
Well, the Tennessee get-together was a great success! We had 9 SOWER couples and the Directors of Lighthouse Camp in Smithville, TN. We had great food and fellowship and shared camp stories, RV stories, and testimonies about how everyone got involved with the SOWERs. The Directors of Lighthouse Camp gave us the history, vision, and services they offer to further the gospel of Jesus. From left to right in the group pick we have: Darryl and Cindy Wittic (4203), Aaron and Sarah Young (Directors), John and Rebecca Ballard(3880), Jim and Linda Hansen(3697), Frank and Connie Robinson(4244), Mike and Joan Busch(3555), Dave and Nelda Thompson(3445), Dick and Tony Howard(2527), John and Rosie Stoner(2721), and hosts Bill and Kellie Blake(3766). We look forward to making this an annual event.
Bill and Kellie Blake
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Ice Cream Social
Any SOWERs who will be in the Lindale, TX area are invited to join the Board of Trustee members for an ice cream social to be held on September 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bass Lake Christian Retirement Community’s Community Center (behind the SOWER Ministry Facilities). Come join us for an informal gathering to get to know and fellowship with your Trustees.
We kindly ask that you RSVP for this event by Thursday September 24th by calling the SOWER office 903-882-8070.
| | Serving at Cross Bar X CO-552 in Durango,CO Larry and Roxie Green (4245) and Don and Tracey Detwiler (4111). | | | | |
There are 68 SOWER couples or singles serving at 42 different ministries all around the country this September. Praise God for all the work that's being completed!
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SOWER Blog Roll
See what other SOWERs are doing around the country!
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Dear Sam and Sally,
We are fairly new SOWERs and have completed enough projects to be GL. The last few projects we were the GLs, serving along with SOWERs that have years of experience, mostly as GLs. It was kind of intimidating at times. Do you have any suggestions for the new GLs as well as the seasoned SOWERs when the roles are reversed?
Thank you for any tips!
Willing to serve
Dear “Willing”
A willing heart really is the first step to being a good Group Leader. And remember, being the GL doesn’t mean you have to know everything or have all the answers. Since you’ve completed enough projects to become a Group Leader, you’ve already learned a lot about how SOWER projects work. But we understand that being the GL can feel a little intimidating, especially when some of the SOWERs on your team have been doing this for years! So here’s a few tips:
Know your resources. The SOWER website has guidelines, training information, checklists, and forms under GROUP LEADERS. Take some time to become familiar with them, especially your first few times as GL.
Use the experience around you. Don’t be afraid to ask experienced SOWERs for advice or help. They will usually be very willing to support you and help in any way they can.
Delegate. Let others take responsibility for certain tasks, especially when they have more experience with a particular type of work or equipment.
Remember your role. You are the liaison and advocate for your team and the communication link with the project. Make sure your team is working safely and is comfortable with the work being asked of them. Check in along the way to see if they need help, supplies, a break, or anything else. And don’t be afraid to listen and learn from those around you!
Show respect and Love. Remember we are all volunteers working as a team to serve Christ. But we are also all human with different life stories and challenges and ways of working. Pray for your team. Respecting the seasoned SOWERs goes a long way.
And to our seasoned SOWERs, remember what it felt like the first time you were a GL. Give a new GL a chance to lead. Offer suggestions when needed, but resist the temptation to take over. Instead of “We always do it this way,” try, “Here’s what has worked for me.” That leaves room for the new GL to make the decision while still benefiting from your experience. Respect, love and prayer is also good advice for every one of us!
New GLs, don’t be afraid to lead. Experienced SOWERs, don’t be afraid to follow. We’re all working together to glorify Christ, help the ministries we serve, and enjoy being SOWERs. And if we can laugh a little along the way, even better!
Serving with you,
Sam & Sally
Do you have a SOWER etiquette question? Or maybe you'd like some clarification about a policy or rule. Sam and Sally would love to hear from you! Contact them at - samandsally@sowerministry.org
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To send in a prayer request or praise item-
| | Don't Forget there are easy ways to donate to SOWERs. Click the button below to be taken to the "Donate or Purchase" page. | |
Newsletter Team
Stephanie Conrad #2509
Sharon Hoyt #3815
Lou Blount #3952
Janelle Jorgenson #3871 (Email maintenance)
There's still room on our team! Contact newsletter@sowerministry.org
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