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Redwood
Glen Newsletters
Go back to archives here.
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The
latest news and events at Redwood Glen
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November
2008
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WELCOME
OUR MISSION:
"To
Reflect Christ through Serving Others"
A WORD FROM OUR
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
"What does Redwood Glen
mean to you?"
This
question was recently posed to our 12 current and three
new board members.
(See article to the
right.)
I now would like to
pose the question to you.
"What does
Redwood Glen mean to you?"
For many Redwood Glen is the place where you made that
wonderful decision to have Jesus come into your heart as Savior.
For some, you heard the call into Christian service
and began a journey in professional ministry.
For
others, you came camp broken and God provided
healing, inside yourself, with God, in a relationship, maybe even in
your marriage.
Others still find Redwood
Glen to be a very
special place where they commune with God through nature and hear God's
still
small voice in their lives.
Recently with the passing
of David Sato, friends
and family have found it fitting to send memorial gifts to Redwood Glen
in
honor of David and his almost 40 years of summer camp ministry through
the
Adventure Camp program at Indian Point.
When we take communion we
often hear the words
"do this in remembrance of me." As you think about
Redwood Glen and remember those who have impacted your life, memorial
gifts are one way to express your
thanks for what Redwood Glen has meant to you.
As you reflect on what
Redwood Glen means to you, consider how you can partner with us so
others might have the same chance you had to come to camp, so that
regardless of
family income level, there is "No Child Left Inside."
Jay
E. Nordgaard,
Executive
Director
(650)
879-0320 Ext. 12
exec@redwoodglen.com
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OUR
MINISTRY LINKS
2009 SUMMER CAMP
(Click the link for more information and to register beginning November
21st)
Children's MAD
Camp
June 22-27
Discovery Camp
June 14-19
Jr. Adventure
Camp
July 6-11
Jr. High Camp
July 13-17
Me and Mom/Dad
August 15-16
Sr. High Camp (NEW)
July 13-17
Youth MAD Camp
July 6-11
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Hello Friend of Redwood Glen
WELCOME to the monthly on-line newsletter of Redwood Glen, your local
Bay Area Christian Camp and Conference Center.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we want to thank you for sharing your lives
and your stories with us. It has been a wonderful 50th
anniversary year, and in this issue we share with you some of the
blessings which have been shared with us. Enjoy! And thank
you for your continuing support of Redwood Glen.
If
you would like to
subscribe and receive this monthly newsletter via email, please
register your
address via the link on our homepage (www.redwoodglen.com). |
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50 years of ministry: IN
REMEMBRANCE AND THANKS
In
celebrating our 50th anniversary through 2008, we've heard inspiring
stories of how Redwood Glen has blessed the lives of numerous
people. We've also received many pictures from the past. As
Thanksgiving approaches, we wanted to share some of the blessings with
you so you can join with us in gratitude for the ways God has used
Redwood Glen in ministry for over 50 years.
 This
photo (right) of Smith
Dining Hall was taken in 1967 by an anonymous camper and
photographer. Lanny Giorgi
writes, "There was a group from a Richmond church that was all into the
new SLR camera at the time. One of them climbed a big redwood
tree and took a series of photos. That inspired me to add
photography to my list of hobbies after that."
Following that example, Lanny, who had been a camper at Redwood Glen
during the early 1960s, took his own series of photos (above) from the flag pole during
the summer of 1967 while on staff. Among his responsibilities were
archery and the
craft lodge, which is currently the staff house. Lanny shares the
following background story of the photos.
 "Some
kid pulled the rope out of the pulley on the flag pole and we had no
way of raising the flag. The pole was handmade in three sections
bolted together. None of us felt he could shimmy up the pole all
the
way to the top and put a rope through the pulley at the top. An
adult,
who was at camp for family week, was a steeple jack and made a seat and
stirrups out of rope and a 2x4 with a clove hitch and bow lines.
I
volunteered to go, fixed the rope, and took some shots with my little
instamatic. Because the pole was non-commercial, it bent and I
was
only about 140 lbs at the time! Redwood Glen and the people
were a very important part of my life and bolstered my faith, too."
 Betsy (Marshall) Powell was a high
school student when she served on Redwood Glen staff in the
1960's. Pictured right wearing the printed blouse with Diane, Lou Vandermeer, and Steve Vandermeer, Betsy writes: "I
have one memory that has stuck with me from the summer of 1966.
There was one youth camp with a speaker named Zenus Yegoyian and I went to talk to
him one afternoon about how a person can know what God's will for their
life is. I was going to be a senior in high school and was trying
to figure out what I should do with my life. I told him all the
different ideas I was thinking of but didn't know how to choose the
right one and was hoping that he'd help me to figure it out.
"I
remember him saying, 'Betsy, if you were a secretary to the most
powerful executive in the world, when you came into work in the
morning, you would not go to him and say, <Good Morning, Boss.
Today, let me tell you what I'm going to do for you today,> and
then begin to
list off what you were going to accomplish. You
would come in and say, <Good
Morning, Boss! What
would YOU like for me to do today? How
can I help you?> That
is how we come to God, not to give Him a
list of options
to choose from, but simply to be available to do whatever it is that He
asks us to
do, and much of that we already know from reading His Word. If
you are so busy telling God what you want to do for Him, you won't be
able to hear what
He wants to tell you. Just have the attitude that He is the Boss,
and He'll let you know what He wants you to do if you are listening.'
I've thought of that several times throughout my life when I'm looking
for God's direction."
 From
1965 to 1970, Rev. LeRoy Willard
served as Minister of Christian Education and Camping for the region
and spent much time at Redwood Glen with his family (pictured right with wife Carol, son Rod, and daughter Marla). Having grown up at the
camp, Marla (Willard) Hart
writes, "While I was very little there, I have fond memories of Redwood
Glen. I think Rod and I
were spoiled by the staff. I remember playing with
dishes from the big kitchen, picking wild blackberries, and having a
live snake in a pillowcase in our cabin until Dad could take it
far enough away to release. I loved the enormous deck that looked
over
the pool and the beautiful forest. Every kid should be so lucky."
Every kid should be
so lucky! That is why our vision is to "Leave No Child Inside" and to
provide the opportunity for all children to experience the blessings of
God through a week of camp at Redwood Glen, no
matter their background or socio-economic status.
We hope that you will partner with us by continuing to share your
stories and supporting our ministry with your financial gifts and
prayers. Redwood Glen means so much to so many people. Let
us continue passing on the blessings for another 50 years.
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50th
ANNIVERSARY -
A CELEBRATION OF THANKS
 In
celebration of our 50th anniversary this year, we created a monthly
trivia contest to test your knowledge of the camp's history.
Thanks to all who participated.
Last month we asked people to share what they appreciate about Redwood
Glen. As introduction to our Board of Directors, we asked them to
share what Redwood Glen means to them. Their responses are
below. In early November, the Board met in a joint session with
outgoing members who are completing their service in 2008 and new
members who begin in 2009. We are thankful for their commitment
to our ministry as they work with Executive Director, Jay Nordgaard,
and shape the vision for Redwood Glen. In upcoming e-newsletters,
we will feature more on our vision of "No
Child Left Inside."
What does Redwood Glen
mean to you?
Beginning left with the back row, standing:
Rev. Karen Yee,
Alameda,
First Baptist Church (outgoing member)
"Redwood
Glen is a very special and holy place for me. It is the place
where I accepted Christ, where I discovered and tried out my gifts for
ministry, where I heard the call to full-time ministry, and where I
decided to accept a position at my present ministry. Through the
partnership of First Baptist Alameda and Redwood Glen, many lives have
been transformed through the various camps and retreats that have been
held there, and it continues to be a place where I can experience the
presence and power of the Holy Spirit, just by walking through the
grounds."
Rev. Charlie
Northrop, Daly City, Westlake
Community Bpt (outgoing, current vice chair)
"What Redwood Glen means to me: An opportunity to connect with the
Creator in a special way; an opportunity to grow in my relationship
with Christ; an opportunity to come apart with Jesus so that I don't
come apart; an opportunity to serve youth by supporting the camp and
ministry."
Jesse Austile, Vallejo, First Baptist Church
"When
I think of leaving Vallejo to
go to Redwood Glen, I think of coming home from a long day trip.
What
Redwood Glen means to me is 'being at home with God.'"
Joel Jang,
San
Francisco, First Chinese Baptist Church
"Redwood Glen is an outdoors retreat for nurturing Christian lives and
an environment to cultivate new believers. It is a place where
individuals can come to discover and experience the presence of God and
to soak in His Spirit in the quietness of the sunlit redwoods."
David Afana,
Fremont,
Thornton Ave Baptist Church
"My wife, Debbie, while growing up and attending First Baptist Church
of Napa, and now all of our children have experienced camping
ministries at Redwood Glen. Our oldest daughters also have become
camp counselors. Redwood Glen is truly God's place, where His
presence can be appreciated. His creation in all of its awesome
wonders can be witnessed. This is a place where all of His
children can make stronger connections with Christ and other believers
in a place that many can call, 'sanctuary.'"
Jay Nordgaard,
Redwood Glen
Executive Director and board president
"Redwood Glen is a special place where children, youth, and adults come
to get away and encounter Jesus Christ. Whether it's a weekend
retreat or a week-long summer camp, lives are transformed through the
unconditional love of God."
Brad
Bettencourt, Atwater Baptist
Church
"When I think of Redwood Glen, I think of many things: peace, beauty,
contentment. As far as I can remember, when I am driving towards
camp, the closer I get to RG the more excited I become. I look
forward to the time just being among God's most beautiful creations,
the redwoods. Being down at Indian Point is a time of reflection
and rejuvenation for me. It is time to get closer to God and
clear my mind of whatever has been clogging my brain from the past
months of school. Being at Redwood Glen seems to get me back on
track. At the close of a camp session, even though I am
physically tired, I am mentally refreshed and ready to face the coming
year."
Danny Balderas,
Alameda,
First Baptist Church (incoming member)
"Redwood Glen is opportunity - the opportunity for children, teens, and
adults to see, hear, and feel God's presence in a way that happens only
at camp."
Wendy Ludwig,
Corte Madera,
Hillside Church of Marin (incoming member)
"Redwood Glen is a breath of fresh air! It's a place for kids to
leave the city or the suburbs behind and experience the beauty of
nature and the encouragement and love of God's people. A place to
make new friends and to catch a sense of hope and joy. And that's
what the world needs now - love, God's love."
Front row
seated:
Rev. Denise
Bowman Wylie, Susanville
United Methodist (outgoing member)
"As I leave civilization (cell phone connection) and arrive at Redwood
Glen I sense that I have come to a place 'set apart' or 'sacred.'
Its vibrant beauty and serenity invite me to let go of my normal
routine and engage with the rhythm of creation. No matter whether
I've come to lead a board meeting, direct "Me and Mom/Dad" camp, clear
brush on a work day, or attend a Metamorphosis clergy retreat, the
invitation is there. I take the time to pay attention, to rest,
and to be re-created by the place and the people that are part of each
Redwood Glen experience. When it is time to leave, I notice that
I am calmly centered in Christ and renewed for service."
Jackie Wallace,
Daly City,
Westlake Community Baptist
"Redwood Glen is a great place I can send my kids to learn more about
God, where they will be safe and meet kids from other areas."
Carolyn Neitzke,
Sacramento,
First Baptist Church (current CFO)
"The chapel at Indian Point is called 'Sanctuary.' Redwood Glen
is my sanctuary. I feel renewed even as I drive towards
camp. It is my time to renew my commitment and reconnect to Jesus
Christ."
Martha McDowell,
Fremont,
Thornton Ave. Baptist Church (current secretary)
"Redwood Glen allows me precious time to have intimate talks with God
and divine silent times to listen to Him speak to me. Redwood
Glen is a majestic picture of God's magnificent creation."
Melissa Bowman,
Fremont,
Thornton Ave. Baptist Church (current chairperson)
"Redwood Glen is a place of rest for me, emotionally, physically, and
spiritually. A place where I can come 'empty' and leave restored."
Lisa Robinson,
Santa Clara,
First Baptist Church (incoming member)
"Redwood Glen has always been a great place for me to reconnect with
God. A place for respite from the craziness in Silicon
Valley. If only for a day or two I can set my daily schedule
aside and focus on my relationship with God."
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 STAFF
SPOTLIGHT: Miguel Herrera
Though he initially began at
Redwood Glen because he simply "needed a job," Miguel Herrera has come to enjoy his
work as a member of our Food Service staff, even requesting extra hours
when not in school. A senior at Pescadero High school, Miguel
joined the team over two years ago, and upon graduating in June, hopes
to continue at the camp and possibly go to college.
Originally from Michoacan, Mexico, Miguel moved to California at the
age of 11 with his family. Before coming to Redwood
Glen, he worked at a Pescadero nursery with his dad and
brother. He eventually introduced the work opportunities at camp
to his sister, Yessenia, who
is now also part of our kitchen staff. The brother and sister
team often head to work together after school and on the weekends,
making it a family affair.
Beginning as a dishwasher, Miguel has now begun to cook, making pizza
and pancakes, and other foods which he describes as "easy."
Though he is learning to master the skills of the kitchen, he is best
known for his services in the Siden Dining Room, where he will flash a
characteristic grin and charm the ladies with excellent service.
Recently, one guest was still finishing her main course when her table
was served dessert. When she asked Miguel for her dessert, he
felt bad that he had forgotten. In the kitchen, he doubled the
portions, decorated it, and served her with a smile, much to the
delight of the guest and to the envy of the table. Service above
and beyond characterizes our community as a Redwood Glen staff, and is
reflected in our staff, especially Miguel.
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 A GIFT
THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME
Do you know a
child who has never experienced the wonder of a week of camp?
Maybe it's a grandchild, a nephew or niece. May be the child of a
friend or a teen in the youth group. May be it's your own young
one! Whether a first time camper or a camping veteran, Redwood
Glen is offering to all children and youth a limited time only, early
registration discount for our 2009 summer camps.
For
$195, give the gift of a
Redwood Glen summer camp.
At our program
camps, we provide a safe, affirming environment where children and
youth can experience the blessings of Christian community. Amid
the beauty of God's creation, young people hear of God's love and the
good news of Jesus Christ so they may grow in faith. A variety of
camps are offered which target the range of ages and interests of this
emerging generation.
This early online
registration price for our 2009 summer camps is $195 if paid in full, or $200 with a $100 deposit and one final
payment of $100. This one-time, limited
offer expires on December 24th, thus making it a perfect Christmas
gift. (And it requires no wrapping!) There's no better gift
to give at Christmas than the gift of Jesus through a Redwood Glen
summer camp.
Online
registration begins Friday, November
21st through our website www.redwoodglen.com.
For more information, contact program@redwoodglen.com.
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LEARNING AND LEADING WITH A DIVINE
DESIGN
 Third annual Pastors
Conference - February 16-18, 2009
Do you ever get great ideas from other pastors that simply don't work
for you? Ever wonder why suggestions for improving your prayer
life fall flat? Or why certain leaders don't seem to "click" with
your personality? God has created each of us uniquely, and that
affects both the way we live out our spiritual walk and how we minister
as pastors and church leaders. We'll be exploring these themes
over the three days of our 2009 Pastor's Conference.
DIVINE
DESIGN: Leading the Way God Created Me
will be held February
16-18
in our Siden Conference Center. Besides the usual great food and
comfortable accommodations, inspiring worship and personal sharing with
other pastors, you will have the opportunity to balance learning and
input time with rest and care for yourself. Rev. Scott Wylie, pastor of the
Susanville United Methodist Church, will be our key presenter.
Scott is finishing his doctoral dissertation on personality types and
pastoral leadership. In addition, spiritual directors will be
available to help you explore your uniquesness and how you can best
connect with Christ on a dailty basis. There are discounts
for early registration, so don't wait! A downloadable
registration form is available via the link below. Email meta@redwoodglen.comor call (650) 879-0320 x44 for more information.
Through
Metamorphosis, Redwood Glen provides learning and renewal experiences
for pastors, associate staff, and church leaders seeking to enrich
their lives and ministries.
The 2009 Pastor's Sabbath dates are June 14-19. Email us for
more information or to make a reservation after January 1st.
Can't wait until the summer? Contact
us about a personal retreat. For
more information on the ministry of Metamorphosis, check out our website.
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Redwood
Glen REFLECTIONS
This
monthly e-newsletter is a communication tool for the supporters,
friends, and guests of Redwood
Glen in Loma Mar, CA. We welcome your comments and suggestions. To ensure that you continue to receive our
e-newsletter, add info@redwoodglen.com
to your address book today. Redwood
Glen is located in the scenic coastal redwoods of the Santa Cruz mountains,
between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz.
We are conveniently located one hour from both San Francisco and San Jose
airports.
For more
information, www.redwoodglen.com.
 
Redwood
Glen, a Bay Area Christian Camp and Conference Center,
is an
accedited member of the American
Camp Association
and a member of the Christian Camp and Conference Association.
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If you have
a Redwood Glen story or an idea for this email newsletter, contact...
Larry
Jay
(650) 879-0320 Ext. 14
news@redwoodglen.com
If you would
like to
subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter, please register your email via
the link
on our homepage (www.redwoodglen.com).
THANK YOU! (Our e-newsletter is supported by Constant
Contact.) |
Redwood Glen | 100
Wright Dr. | Loma Mar | CA | 94021
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