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Attendance in the children's and youth programs reached a record of 1023 campers of which 46 percent were from MB homes. Eighty-eight families came for three family camps and 60 adults enjoyed the 55+ retreat. Our enrollment patterns reflect a steady growth over the past number of years.
About 314 workers volunteered for various positions for the ten weeks of program. Program leadership was given by an enthusiastic summer team, including two new head counsellor positions, filled by Carolyn Goossen and Wes Toman. Others on the team were Averil McCann, Andrea Koop, Shealynn McLagan, Larry Mossand and Mitch Krohn. A group of twelve 17-year-olds completed the Leaders-in-Training program.
Often we are amazed at the many ways we see God's Spirit at work. This happened again in 1996. Over 120 decisions of spiritual victory were recorded that are evidence of first-time commitments to Jesus and rededication to walk closer to the Lord. Songs of worship fill the chapel and firesides each day.
Chapels are a significant part of each day. Chapel leaders shared God's love and His Word in meaningful ways for all ages. Those who served in this role included: Heart Squad (Geoff and Audrey Wichert and Dave and Wendy Franz), Willy and Erika Klassen, Bob Rempel, Bernie Smith and Luc DelMonte. Family Camp chapels were led by Bob and Bonnie Rempel, Dave and Heather McMillan, Bill and Carol Lehman and the summer team. Pee Wee campers enjoyed Aunt Sue Lockyer. The Fall Bible retreaters were challenged by Elmer Martens. Each one of these chapel leaders impacted the lives of campers with God's message.
A special, new venture happened this year. On June 1, we had our first bike-a-thon, "Pedal for Crossroads". It was a perfect spring day for 290 riders who came from across Ontario--Orillia, Port Rowan, Leamington, Kitchener and the Niagara Peninsula to ride 30 km which included a beautiful section along the Niagara River. Many retirees encouraged riders along the way and served as "guards". When the proceeds were totalled, $33,000 had been raised. We greatly appreciated the generous participation of all workers, riders and over 1,300 donors. We hope to repeat the Bike-a-thon in '97.
In September, our biggest-ever building project began. A new kitchen is being constructed to replace the existing facility. It is expected to cost $325,000 and is to be ready for the '97 program. We anticipate a high involvement in the project by volunteers and tradespeople within our conference.
II Corinthians 1:11 expresses what we feel in our hearts. "Then many will give thanks for the gracious favour granted us in answer to the prayers of many." So many pray for us and we see answers happen in exciting ways. For this we thank God.
Joyce Schimpky
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