I come  to the ministry of Camping and Youth Consultant with a deep passion for children, youth and adults joining together to play, learn and worship wherever they find themselves to be. Whether it is a Sunday Morning in the sanctuary, an afternoon in a canoe or evening of games and sharing, I believe we are surrounded by God in the communion of Father, Son and Holy Spirit and everything can become a way of knowing this deeply, no matter our age. I have a particular love and appreciation for the small, rural churches. I know well the struggle where small numbers feel vulnerable and discouraging. But I also know well it is the place where young and old know their dependency on one another and delight in the gifts each age brings!

My experience within the church is varied. I have served seven years as Synod Youth Director within the Atlantic Synod from 1987-1994. Though many things have changed since then, including me, the church has remained constant, striving to be a means of hospitality and outreach to youth. I have had the privilege of serving as Christian Education and youth worker in two congregations, one very small and one very large. The experience of both churches has given me precious insights to the challenges that are particular to each but also the joys that are common to all. Many Churches wonder where the youth are. Others have youth and wonder what to do with them. I look forward to sharing in the dance and drama of youth ministry within our synod and accompanying churches in this blessed work.

I have had the privilege of being a part of the Camping and Outdoor Ministries of our denomination for over 20 years. Most recently, I have enjoyed directing both residential and day camps within our denomination. I have celebrated the incredible opportunity given to us through camping ministry as we offer Christian Community to hundreds of children youth each summer. I have witnessed the difference the rhythm a day of camp can have on a young person. I have been reminded that God indeed speaks through creation!  I look forward to sojourning with those called to serve as summer staff as they seek to grow in their faith and they offer their gifts of leadership!  And I anticipate holy moments brought to my attention through the energy and excitement of young campers! There will be great challenges as our camps seek to maintain safe sites and exciting programs within the limits of budgets and time. And there will be the continual challenge to be a genuine experience of Christian Community that will impress the most tender of hearts that will be amongst us. I am confident our camps are up to the challenge.

I am a teacher by profession and a blueberry farmer by birth. I love to take photographs and to play. I have a soft spot for good books and great music. I like going to a coffee shop where everyone knows my name and I love exploring new places where no one even notices me!  More than anything, I am a pilgrim on a journey who is loved by our Lord and loves Him in return.  It is my prayer and my hope that He will use me as I serve the Synod of the Atlantic Provinces in this position of Camping and Youth Consultant and I look forward to sharing the journey with his brothers and sisters within this synod.

 

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