Big Rocks

One day an expert in management was giving a motivational speech to a group of executives. As an illustration he produced a large glass container and placed several fist sized rocks in it until it would hold no more. He asked, "Is it full?" They said, "Yes''. So he brought out a container of pea gravel and poured it in, shaking the container as he poured the smaller stones between the larger rocks. Then he asked his question again. There was still some doubt. He produced a container of sand and added it to the mixture, and it filtered between the remaining cracks. Again he asked the same question. "Is it full?" There was still some hesitation, so he produced a pitcher of water and poured several cups of water in, soaking the sand and rocks to the brim. Then he asked, "What is the point of this demonstration?'' Immediately someone said, "No matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard you can always fit more things into it!" "NO" the speaker replied, "that's not the point. The truth this illustration shows is: If you don't put the big rocks in first, you'll never get them in at all."

At our March board meeting, we struggled with our 'big rocks'. What are the most important things that must be done in terms of maintenance and improvements so that our camp will be most effective in its mission? Recognizing that the 'Biggest Rock' (major pool renovation) is already completed, thanks to the extreme generosity of so many people in our Camp Emmaus family, the board has authorized the following expenditures:

1. Cement work on pool deck $2700
   
2. Replacement of 6 pool bath house doors (47 years old) $2500
   
3. Upgrading insurance policy $1200
   
4. Purchase of 90 matched stackable chairs for lodge $3800
   
5. Construction of new maintenance building $10000
   
6. Install new gas furnace/AC in manager's house (30 years old) $3500

The camp board recognizes our financial responsibility. Due to generous contributions of time and money, these proposed improvements can be completed yet this year while still maintaining a reasonable 'operating budget'. However, we continue to seek your generous support of time, money, and prayers as we undertake this major upgrading of the camping facilities.

Property & Maintenance Committee:
Doug Firebaugh, Chm.
Ray Tritt
Ann Risden
Mike Schnierla

Summer 2001 Curriculum Announced

This summer, campers at Camp Emmaus will be using a new curriculum entitled "No Matter What-A Love That Won't Let Go". The individual themes that counselors and campers will be working with include:

• God: No matter what. God loves us.
  
• Jesus Christ and Incarnation: No matter what. God seeks us.
  
• Discipleship: No matter what, God can count on us.
  
• The Church: No matter what, we are not alone.
  
• Grace and Sin: No matter what, God gives us another chance.
  
• Identity: No matter what, love one another.

Please encourage our directors counselors and campers with your prayers and support as we explore these themes this summer at camp.

Web Site

Yes, Camp Emmaus has a web site at www.CampEmmaus.org. Thanks to Jim Miner, our web master, Camp Emmaus has a web site with information about schedule, registration, and "what to bring". Please also check out "what not to bring".

Camp Sunday

Camp Sunday is April 29, 2001. Please encourage your congregation and campers to celebrate the opportunities of Outdoor Ministry at Camp Emmaus. It's a good time to remember joyfully the opportunities for spiritual growth and development, Christian leadership and wholesome fun that occur every summer in our camp program. Pastors and camp representatives are encouraged to include Camp Emmaus in your worship through the litany, prayer, sermon, and announcements or hymns about God's creation and "No Matter What, A Love That Won't Let Go." Offerings of your time, service and monetary gifts can be directed through the Camp Board, or by contacting Bill and Betty Hare or Camp Board Chairperson, Ed Garrison.

Directors, 2001

At the time of this writing, family camp directors are still being confirmed. Elementary I Camp continues under the direction and leadership of Janis Butterbaugh. Elementary II will be led again by pastor Bill Christiansen, Elementary III by pastor Rick Koch, who has served as a director and member of the camp board for many years. Junior High Camp will be directed by continuing director Teresa Otake and welcomes new co-director Sara Garner, and Youth Camp will have new directors this year - Mike and Sara Garner. Women's Camp will be led by the enthusiastic leadership of Bonnie Wood and Barb Christiansen. Please welcome these new and returning directors to our summer program. Welcome and our thanks to these directors who have agreed to donate their time and leadership to our children, youth and adults. Please keep the Hares, the staff, and the directors, counselors and campers in your prayers this summer.

Scholarship Money

Scholarship money is available to families with three or more children attending camp. Please contact Kathy Gingrich at 308 E. Brown St., West Chicago, IL 60185 for more information.

2001 Camp Schedule

Memorial Day Family Camp 5/25 - 5/28 MidSummer Family Camp 7/6 - 7/8 Junior High 7/15 - 7/21 Elementary III 7/22 - 7/27 Elementary I 7/28 Senior High 7/29 - 8/4 Elementary II 8/5 - 8/8 Women's Camp 8/10 - 8/12 Labor Day Family Camp 8/31 - 9/3 Camp Appreciation Dinner 9/8 Leaf Raking Day 10/27