A Message from the CEO

Dear camp friends,

It’s almost time for summer camp at Lutheridge, Lutherock, and Luther Springs and we are filled with anticipation! Soon campers will be hiking on trails, singing around campfires, and sharing in the love and belonging of Christian community. Your support of NovusWay makes all this possible for campers like Jack.

Fifth grader Jack remembers the first time he went to camp. As a young camper, he was nervous. “It was scary,” Jack says. “It was hard leaving home and being in an unfamiliar place and not knowing anyone.” Jack’s dad Walt remembers he was apprehensive too. “We were nervous about him being comfortable,” Walt says. “But we were excited for him and knew he would be in the safe care of the camp staff.”

The first day Jack spent at camp changed everything. “We did icebreaker games to get to know everyone,” Jack says. “I liked the game where you say your name out loud and one thing you like to do. I started making friends and it was kind of easy after that.” Each day at camp, the nervousness that Jack had felt gave way to confidence and joy. When Walt picked Jack up at the end of the week, he saw it right away. “The first thing Jack said to us was, ‘I’m coming back next year!’” Walt laughs. “He was excited about his new friends and all the fun they had together.”

This summer Jack will return to camp again and he is already looking forward to his favorite parts of the week. “I like the counselors,” Jack says. “They are always with you and always kind. I also like how we learn about God and the Bible. It’s like church, but better because you get to stay overnight. This time my younger brother Isaac gets to go too, and I already told him you get to do really fun things!”

Walt appreciates how special it is for his children to have meaningful experiences at camp. “It’s important for them to be able to go somewhere where we know they’re safe and they can be themselves. They get to disconnect from screens and the busyness of life. That’s a real gift.”

This is how your gifts transform lives! Your generosity makes it possible for children like Jack to gain confidence, form meaningful friendships, and explore the wonder of God’s creation. As we get ready to welcome children of all ages to camp, would you consider giving a gift of $25, $50, $100, $200 or more to empower summer ministry? Gifts like these make a lasting impact in the lives of campers at Lutheridge, Lutherock, and Luther Springs. Thank you for being a partner in ministry!

With gratitude,

Lauri SoJourner