News
Weekend of Storytelling Brings Laughter, Memories
At the 2009 Spring Association Meeting, more than forty families
gathered to listen to and share Laurelville stories. Past directors,
board members, Association members and staff shared about what the
years have held for Laurelville. It was a time of laughter and story-telling,
as well as acknowledging the tragic moment in our history when director
Don Rittenhouse was killed in a car accident. It was both a time
of looking back and anticipating moving forward.
Friday evening’s “Remembering our Story” included memories from
Dana Sommers, Laurie Weaver, John Spicher and Alice Roth. The speakers
remembered the significant moments in the last 30 years of Laurelville
history and told personal anecdotes reflecting on their experiences.
Many joined the sharing during Saturday night’s story-telling time.
Bob Bomberger shared a testimonial to Laurelville programming, Joyce
Hostetler told tales about girls peeking over the pool fence, and
Gloria Horst Rosenberger shared memories of past Association fundraising
events, to name just a few. An impromptu auction-style fundraiser
also occurred, raising $3,500 for a new entrance sign featuring the
new Laurelville logo.
Worship times were lively and life-giving with musician and comedian
Jeff Raught, who led powerful worship services with humor, music
and drama. Among his creative devotions, Raught used a water pot
to illustrate our need to let go of the things that consume our lives,
leaving us too little room for God.
Association members also participated in volunteer projects around
camp, including mulching flower beds, washing window screens, and
helping in the kitchen and dining hall. More than 80 hours of volunteer
labor were given over the weekend.
Executive Director John Denlinger’s Sunday morning message, Of Rocks,
Roots and Trees, addressed how Laurelville can continue to be faithful
by remembering the past that makes us who we are, while also preparing
for new opportunities in the future. Staff members served communion
to the Association as an expression of a hopeful future ahead.
Association weekends are open to all Association members and those
interested in becoming members. Dates for the fall Association Weekend
are October 16-18.
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