Summer 2013 - Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp

FALL 2013
Newsletter
SKY RANCH LUTHERAN CAMP
FENCE POST
A SUMMER TO CELEBRATE!
Sky Ranch’s Mission
is to Facilitate an
Encounter with Christ
on the Mountaintops
•
To unfold the gifts of all participants
•
To gift our community with diversity
•
To be fertile soil for the seeds of
faith
•
To embrace changing needs
•
To preserve our environments
•
To build up positive leadership
•
To celebrate with inspiration and joy
Board of Directors
•
Meghan Aelabouni - Trinity Lutheran
Church, Fort Collins
•
Kristen Baltrum - Bethlehem
Lutheran Church, Longmont
•
Rob Behrens - Our Saviour’s
Lutheran Church, Fort Collins
•
Ron Bockhaus - Shepherd of the
Mountain, Estes Park
•
Kevin Dragseth - Bethany Lutheran
Church, Cherry Hills Village
•
Gene Elder - Zion Lutheran Church,
Loveland
•
Ken Gibson - Grace Lutheran
Church, Woodstock, IL
•
Kim Haguestuen - Spirit of Joy, Fort
Collins
•
Jeff Kelty - Casper, WY
•
Angie McDonald - Our Saviour’s
Lutheran Church, Fort Collins
•
RC Reiman - Ascension Lutheran
Church, Cheyenne, WY
•
Ron Roschke - Rocky Mountain
Synod Representative, Denver
•
Roberta Wentworth - Holy
Shepherd Lutheran Church,
Lakewood
•
Mike Williams - Christ Lutheran
Church, Highlands Ranch
There was a party at Sky
Ranch this summer, 50 years
in the making. The idea for
the party began when a
group of men from Northern
Colorado traveled into the
mountains to see a piece of
land for sale and envisioned
a vibrant youth camp. It took
50 years to get everything
set up, including endless
hours of volunteers and staff,
programs and projects, worship and wonder,
frustrations and faith. But this summer, there
was a Jubilee!
The pages of this newsletter are full of stories
of celebration and the joy that comes with
a successful summer of camping ministry.
And a successful summer it was, with new
programs and more campers – nearly 200
more campers than last summer! Along with
the higher registration came the need for a
larger summer staff – more young adults that
dedicate a summer to faith and fun. Together,
the Sky Ranch community explored living
a life of Jubilee, taking their mountaintop
experience back into the world to serve one
another in love. That’s worth celebrating!
2013 SUMMER REGISTRATION
Onsite Programs
Offsite Programs
638
174
+25%
+53%
Total Participation
812
+30%
50TH ANNIVERSARY APPEAL
Sky Ranch will be conducting a special
appeal starting in the fall of 2013 as part of
our 50th Anniversary Celebration. Our goal
of $550,000 will provide funding to replace
the shower house and to reduce the camp’s
overall debt by more than a third.
Bishop Jim Gonia recently shared, “I am
pleased with the camp’s new vision to replace
the shower house and to pay off debt. On
the surface, these may not seem like exciting
projects for a ‘golden anniversary.’ But I am
encouraged by the reality that Sky Ranch has
grown in its capacity to address the issues of
deferred maintenance. If you know Sky Ranch
as I do, you are aware that the shower house
has been in need of improvement for many
years. The new vitality we are now witnessing
at Sky Ranch means we can finally tackle this
issue.” The shower house is the most-utilized
building on site, and is no longer sufficient
to serve the number of campers and adults
now using Sky Ranch annually.
Striving to be good stewards of the gifts
we receive, the 50th appeal is also designed
to reduce our debt. Reducing the camp’s
debt will allow us to reallocate resources to
mission and ministry, introducing more kids
and families to God’s grace in the mountains.
The 50th appeal is envisioned as seeking gifts
of $5,000 to $75,000 over a two year period.
We will continue to build our annual fund
with gifts of all sizes. This appeal will help
build the foundational structures that will
sustain the ministry of Sky Ranch for the next
50 years.
If you would like more information about the
50th appeal or Sky Ranch’s annual fund, please
call Brad Abbott at (970) 493-5258 or email
[email protected].
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
Page 2
BRAD ABBOTT - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
I’m excited to be part of this ministry that
has shaped the faith lives of thousands of
youth and adults over the past 50 years.
2013 has been an amazing opportunity
for me to experience the legacy that
is Sky Ranch. The Tuxes & Tevas Gala in
March and the three alumni weekends
this summer allowed me to witness the
passion and sacrifice that embodies this
mountaintop ministry. It was a chance for
many to reconnect to this ministry that
was so transformative in their lives. So,
like our 50th logo proclaims, let’s take a
moment to Remember, Experience and
Imagine the ministry of Sky Ranch.
Experience - I am humbled and
appreciative of the ebbs and flows of
our legacy but I am also amazed at what
we have accomplished in the past three
years, a pivotal time in the life of Sky
Ranch. The current vigor and excitement
at Sky Ranch has led to:
in our congregations, we have the gift of
their presence in abundance at camp. Like
the generations of staff that came before
them they change young campers’ lives
by being available, authentic and affirming.
These young adults are a dynamic force
and the Holy Spirit is at work in them.
• The continued rejuvenation of the
summer program with significant
increases in all camper programs.Total
campers have doubled since 2010
and onsite campers have increased
to numbers not experienced since
2003.
Imagine - As Sky Ranch looks to
the future, we need to be practical
and pragmatic about rebuilding the
foundational structures to prepare this
ministry for its next 50 years. To be
successful we need all generations, young
and old, to join together in programmatic
and financial support of this mountaintop
ministry.
reclaiming
their
Remember – Sky Ranch’s history is • Congregations
historical
ownership
and
support
of
full of faithful people who had visions
Sky Ranch with a 62% increase in
for extending the ministry of the church
congregational support.
in innovative ways. People like Alton
Schwandt, Al Ekblad, Carl Guthals and • Double the number of volunteers
those who found the property and
investing themselves in Sky Ranch
raised money to purchase the site.
through programs like “Leave A
Leaders like Leonard Nickoly, Richard
Trace” and assisting with various fire
Anderson, Fred Isernhagen and all the
mitigation projects including clearing
early directors, pastors and counselors
debris from over 750 beetle killed
who made ministry happen in spite of
trees in the high use areas of camp.
limited facilities.
• One additional week of summer
Pioneering people like Bob Kuehner,
programming due to growing camper
Kathy Berge and those in the mid 70’s
numbers and 4 new platform tent
and 80’s that expanded the ministry and
cabins to house increasing off-site
built the Christ Lodge. Passionate people
campers.
like Ron Letnus, Greg Schairer, Angie
McDonald and those in the late 80’s and • Pilot programs for three new
community service sites in Salt Lake
90’s that developed new programs and
City, Denver and Fort Morgan.
extended the service ministry of Sky
Ranch ‘down the mountain.’ Visionary
people like Ralph Yernberg and Joel • Financial strength and stability that
allowed us to refinance interest
Abenth who repaired and renovated a
on our debt and reduce our loan
disintegrating infrastructure, developed
payment by over $2,000 a month!
plans/policies for facility expansion and
secured water rights for the future.
• Implementation of a financially
It is also the 50 years of summer staffs and
volunteers who have labored – usually
with too little time and too little money
– to be faithful stewards of this ministry;
building and maintaining not only facilities,
but relationships and programs, stories
and ministry.
feasible staffing model for our
growing programmatic demands.
One of our greatest gifts to the church
and the world is the summer staffs that
come to ministries like Sky Ranch to serve
and to learn. At a time when young adults
are quickly disappearing from the pews
This fall, Sky Ranch will launch a 50th
Anniversary Special Appeal focused on
replacing the shower house and reducing
debt (page #1). Sky Ranch Lutheran
Camp has long been known for its rustic
nature. Unfortunately, the shower house
has gone past rustic. The current shower
house was built as a temporary structure
over 30 years ago and while some things
improve with age, this is not one of them.
Replacing the shower house is a key
priority for board and staff.
The appeal also addresses our current
debt. For several years, operational deficits
were accrued to keep the ministry of
Sky Ranch strong. As mentioned earlier
we have made giant strides recently in
rectifying this financial situation while
maintaining program quality. Reducing
our debt would free additional funding
to re-dedicate to ministry.
Sky Ranch began with those who believed
that time away – in the mountains, living
in community – was essential to helping
people to grow in faith. So join us as we
move forward in faith. Please consider
supporting Sky Ranch so that together,
we can boldly proclaim and facilitate
that encounter with Christ on the
mountaintop. Please keep Sky Ranch in
your prayers; that God will continue to
provide for and bless this ministry.
Page 3
www.SkyRanchColorado.org
ANDY SPRAIN - ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
Every summer, some of the best days
are when I have the opportunity to
hike out and meet the groups that are
backpacking with our High Wilderness
program. Not only do these days bring
some rare silence while walking out to
the group (quiet isn’t always the best
adjective to describe summer camp), but
being on trail always brings a sense of
surprise and remembering.
It takes me back to 2006, serving as
a backpack guide, spending an entire
summer in these sacred places. Meeting
up with the groups, I get to see the
process of transformation that happens
on trail, both for individuals and for the
community. As I hike home, anywhere
from 10 - 15 miles later, I am reminded of
muscles I always forget I have. But mostly,
walking back to camp, hearing the sounds
of deck songs echoing off the mountains,
I always have the sense that what we do
at Sky Ranch . . . it works.
This summer in particular, I am excited
that strengthened camper registrations
have allowed us to think anew about
the programs we offer and the ministry
we do. With more backpacking trips
than anytime in the last 7 years, it
means purchasing new gear to make the
wilderness more accessible and building
four new platform tents to house
groups while at Sky Ranch. With the
continued interest in mission and service
experiences it means exploring three
new pilot programs for our Four Winds
service experiences – in Denver, CO; Fort
Morgan, CO; and Salt Lake City, UT. In the
spirit of partnering and accompaniment,
it means welcoming back an international
counselor from Madagascar – and what a
blessing Hasina was this summer!
These program components contribute
to the vitality and vibrancy of Sky Ranch.
Like the surprising wonder and majesty of
creation repeatedly experienced hiking,
they are a reminder of how the love and
grace of God are woven into our daily life
in such creative and wonderful ways.
KATHYRN SEYFARTH - PROGRAM DIRECTOR
“What is it that brings you back to Sky
Ranch?”
“It’s hard to explain . . . Sky Ranch is a
place and a community that fosters my
faith. It’s the place where I feel Christ’s
presence in my life the most.”
This conversation between a youth
director and their youth simply depicts
the community of Sky Ranch. This was
a summer of celebration much like other
summers, but this celebration was tied to
something more specific – celebrating a
ministry that for 50 years has facilitated an
Encounter with Christ on the Mountaintops.
This was a summer of individual stories
coming together to tell the Sky Ranch
story.
Yes, this was another summer of
encountering Christ on the mountaintops
but with a new summer comes new ways
of experiencing the unconditional love
and grace that God gives us. The staff
come in with expectations, hopes, ideas
of what a summer of impacting campers
lives will look like. However, as many of us
know, God works in
mysterious ways and
it never turns out
the way we expect it
to. Campers are still
impacted but in ways
we never thought.
Lives are changed
in small ways and
big, each person
that drives up that
two mile road has a story to share. The
summer comes with lessons but the
biggest most surprising lessons come
from individuals that are years younger.
This was a summer to remember, to listen
and to live into the different experiences
of each person who were apart of the
Sky Ranch community – new and old.
What was unique about this summer
was having the opportunity to hear those
stories from staff that preceded us. By
the end of the summer you realize what
a life changing ministry God has blessed
us with; to hear the impact it has had
and continues to have on someone who
worked 50, 40, 30 years ago – now that
was a blessing indeed.
We have a lot to be thankful for. At times
that can be hard to realize but we are
thankful to everyone that is apart of a
community that constantly fosters our
faith and reminds us of God’s presence in
our everyday lives.
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
Page 4
ELECTIVE PROGRAMMING
Our community and the gifts they have to
offer are a continuous blessing. For many
summers we have been able to offer two
additional specialist activities provided by
volunteers who have a gift and want to
share it with our campers. Pam Bailey
and Lucille Rosbach have donated their
time and supplies to offer basketweaving
and poetry – unique activities we are
able to incorporate into our summer
programming.
Pam Bailey has been joining us for more
than 10 summers, sharing her passion
for basketweaving. Campers come to
camp every summer not only looking
forward to a week of camp but a specific
THEN I SAW GOD
One time on a ranch
I found a place,
a strange place.
I looked around
and saw a cross.
I walked up to the cross.
It said something,
but I couldn’t hear it.
I walked around again.
I heard the voice again,
and it said,
“Look to your left.”
Then I saw
a group of people
and a lake.
I asked,
“What are you doing?
They said,
“We are praising the Lord”
Then I saw God.
- Lars Bergo - 3rd Grade
Fort Collins, CO
piece of that week – basketweaving. Her
patience and passion for our ministry
helps kids to create something most of
them have never created before – or if
they have it is because of their previous
summers at Sky Ranch.! Many kids walk
away excited about what they were
able to create: a basket for their mother,
father, friend, teacher or pastor. This past
summer she spent 6 out of the 9 weeks,
donating her time and all of the materials,
to help campers (and sponsors) create
something they are proud of. We are
thankful to Pam for continuing to share
her gifts with us and many others.
Lucille Rosbach has been working with
our youth to illicit the creative side of
our campers through poetry. Since
2003, Lucille has helped our campers
create poems about faith, nature, music,
phrases or their experience at Sky Ranch.
I have had the opportunity to read many
of these poems and am in awe of the
ability poetry has to help these campers
reflect. Lucille was working with one
of our homesteader cabins this past
summer when their counselor looked
at me and said “Lucille is a magician
– my kids haven’t been this focused all
week!” Poetry is an outlet for many of
our campers to process what they have
experienced at camp.
Deb and Paul Price have been apart
of the Sky Ranch community since the
90’s first as staff and now as astronomy
extraordinares. Each year during staff
training, our staff experience another
side of nature that is seldom adored
unless removed from city lights – stars
and planets. Paul and Deb work with our
staff to share with them the beauty of
astronomy and how this can be used in
programming. Yes it’s easy to see God’s
beauty in the mountains but wait until
you’ve seen a clear night sky showered
with stars.
We are thankful for the hours, materials,
and dedication these individuals have for
Sky Ranch. The gifts they have to share
are yet another unique way for campers
and visitors to “Encounter Christ on the
Mountaintops.”
GRANT FOR PORTABLE SAW MILL
Sky Ranch has received a $10,000
grant from Thrivent Financial
for Lutherans to support the
purchase of a portable saw mill.
The mill, which will be ordered in the
coming weeks, will allow Sky Ranch to
take advantage of the many trees that
have died around Sky Ranch as a result
of the Rocky Mountain Pine Beetle
infestation. The mill will allow us to cut
dimensional lumber in a variety of sizes
in lengths of up to 12’.
With the purchase of the mill, Sky Ranch
will host a series of volunteer events to
help train friends of camp on the use
and maintenance of the mill. Along with
the training, there will be a barn raising
event to help the construction of a shed
to both protect the mill and to store the
milled lumber as it dries. Eventually, we
would like to mill enough lumber that in
addition to what we use at Sky Ranch
we are able to donate rough cut wood
to partner organizations in the area, such
as congregations and Harvest Farm in
Wellington.
Thank you to Thrivent Financial for this
great addition to Sky Ranch’s ministry!
Page 5
www.SkyRanchColorado.org
HIGH ROPES EXPANSION
Since the high ropes course was
introduced at Sky Ranch in the early
1990’s, it has been central to our
programming. It is a wonderful tool to
challenge campers to reach outside of
their comfort zone and to help support
growth in community.
allows up to 15 participants to safely be
on the course at one time. It also opens
up new avenues for cooperation, since
participants can now physically help each
other with difficult elements, rather than
simply offering encouragement from the
ground.
This spring, our course underwent a
renovation to help utilize the space more
fully. This expansion included converting
the course to a static system, which
means that each individual is personally
connected to safety lines above each
course element, rather than belayed
from the ground. Each participant then
transfers between elements with the
oversight of course facilitators. This
The work on the course was completed
with the help of John Batchelder, who
has inspected the course each of the last
several years, along with alumni Chris
Stuberg. The work included replacing
the zip line, repositioning safety lines
above each element, and installing all
new elements, including several that took
advantage of sections of the course not
being used previously.
The final layout includes 8 elements (each
with multiple pathways to completion)
plus the zipline dismount. The course
also maintains the existing Jacob’s Ladder
element that can be used on belay by
two participants.
All of the course upgrades, were
completed at a cost of less than $5,000,
including materials and bringing in John
and Chris to complete the work. On
behalf of the many campers and guests
that used the course this summer, thank
you to the generous support of Our
Savior’s Lutheran Church in Greeley, the
Douglas County Thrivent chapter, and Joy
Lutheran Church in Parker for providing
support and funding.
PROPERTY IMPROVEMENTS ALL OVER CAMP
Despite the canceation of several of our
spring work weekends in April, due to
the 7 feet of snow that fell in a matter
of two weeks, major improvements were
made all around this summer, including:
• 4 new 28’ x 16’ platform tents.
• New decks on King and Day Cabins.
• Complete remodel of Nature Center
staff housing, including all new layout,
insulation, electrical, and drywall. • A new stair case on the front of
Christ Lodge’s main deck.
• New decking, windows, and wood
Mountains Lutheran - Estes Park; Trinity
Lutheran - Loveland; Zion Lutheran Loveland; Jeff and Kim Kelty - Casper, WY;
Bert Pedri - Fort Collins; Bob Beckman
Thank you to the many volunteers and - Fort Collins. Added thanks goes to Lee
supportive congregations for making Currie with Universal Forest Products,
all these projects possible, especially Inc. who donated the lumber for many of
to Abiding Hope Lutheran - Littleton; these projects.
Bethany Lutheran - Cherry Hills Village;
Christ Lutheran - Highlands Ranch; The impact on our facilities that continues
Glory of God Lutheran - Wheat Ridge; to be made by our volunteers is incredible
Joy Lutheran - Parker; Lord of the Valley and irreplaceable, preparing Sky Ranch
Lutheran - Granby; Shepherd of the for the next 50 years of ministry.
floor in Tutu cabin.
• New low ropes trail area with 6 new
elements.
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
Page 6
2013 SUMMER STAFF
These are the faithful servants that served as the
2013 Sky Ranch summer staff. After an incredible
summer of walking with youth, these individuals
have returned to college, moved into new jobs
or are participating in a year of service. We are
grateful for their time, commitment, and dedication.
Keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they
transition into this next chapter of their journey.
Rachel Brooks
Evergreen, CO
Luther College
Samantha Brown
Brian Adams
Littleton, CO
St. Olaf
Debbie Cataldo
Caitlin Almer
Hannah Anderson
Littleton, CO
Luther College
Pacific Lutheran University
Kalispell, MT
Daniel Chell
Andrew Coulter
Kankakee, IL
Concordia University
Keller, TX
University of Arkansas
California Lutheran University
Castro Valley, CA
San Diego State
Taylor Grooms
Lukas Hampton
Montevideo, MN
Luther College
Katie Hank
Madison, WI
U of Wisconsin, Madison
Julia Jaecks
Caleb Knauff
Joe Natwick
Allisun Palma-Ruwe
Mary Patterson
Vanwert, OH
University of Cincinnati
Fargo, ND
Luther Seminary
Andrew Steger
Littleton, CO
Grad, University of Colorado
Brookings, SD
Denton, TX
University of North Texas
Castle Rock, CO
Capital University
Fort Collins, CO
Grad, Caifornia Lutheran
Gustavus Adolphus University
Hasina Ramamgaharisoa
Antananarieo, Madagascar
English Language Institute
Littleton, CO
Grad, Colorado State
Haleigh Stratton
Katie Stremel
Joel Stremmel
Madeline Thomas
Littleton, CO
Mead, CO
Colordado State University
Thorton, CO
Luther College
Brookings, SD
Gustavus Adolphus University
Joe Rein
Delta, OH
Adrian College
Page 7
Eric Babcock
www.SkyRanchColorado.org
Kansas City, MO
Grad, St. Olaf
Glenview, IL
Valparaiso University
Fort Collins, CO
Emily Bishop
Jenny Bonnel
Pacific Lutheran University
Westlake, OH
Pacific Lutheran University
Katie Donner
Thomas Gehrig
Daniel Barber
Kimberly Belleville
Greeley, CO
U of Northern Colorado
Jeff Fairfax
Joel Freeman
Sierra Freeman
University of Central Flordia
Jordan Lange
Paul Larson
Cape Coral, FL
Loveland, CO
U of Northern Colorado
Loveland, CO
U of Northern Colorado
Ames, IA
Augustana, Soiux Falls
Olivia Mannino
Ben Moening-Swanson
Andrea Mondragon
Champaign, Il
Grad, U of Illinois
Roseville, CA
Sacramento City College
Lexington, KY
Grad, Centre College
Jamie Rohrig
Owatonna, MN
U of Wisconsin, Stout
Keyla Spahr
Breanna Schlegel
Ntxuam Vang
Denver, CO
Grad, Wartburg College
Des Moines, IA
Apple Valley, MN
Luther College
Windsor, CO
Aims Community College
Jeff Schleusener
Greeley, CO
Grad, U of Northern Colorado
Becca Simonds
Grad, Grandview University
Eagan, MN
Gustavus Aolphus College
Fort Collins, CO
Front Range Community
Greeley, CO
U of Northern Colorado
Erin Vogel
Alison Vuolo
Tommy Wangaard
Taylor Wiese
Greeley, CO
Colorado State University
Eden Priarie, Mn
Luther College
Eden Prairie, MN
Regis University
Bloomington, IL
Valparasio Universtity
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
Page 8
TUXES AND TEVAS GALA
Nature offers both beauty and
ruggedness. With nature’s backdrop at
Sky Ranch, beauty and ruggedness often
collide in the ministry provided atop the
mountain.
To launch the 50th year celebration
of Sky Ranch, our gala event featured
“Tuxes and Tevas,” truly a combination
of the elegant and the casual, the beauty
and the rugged – both so important in
reaching out to people no matter where
they are in life.
Held at the Best Western Crossroads
Inn and Conference Center in Loveland
March 2, about 130 Sky Ranch fans
gathered to share stories and photos,
hear words from former campers,
leaders, counselors, and parents, enjoy a
meal together and all the festivities that
go along with putting a bunch of people
in one room who are tied together by a
common experience.
memories from Sky Ranch’s beginnings.
Other speakers shared how Sky Ranch
has impacted their lives and the lives of
their families, including Dawn Trautman,
summer staff member from the early
1990s; Lisa Dunworth, former camper
and summer staff member, and Gene
Elder, family camper and current board
member. Throughout the generations,
Sky Ranch has touched the lives of
countless people as witnessed in the
stories and memories shared.
Thanks to the many people who gave of
their time and talents to make this event
a successful gathering – many hands do
make for light work.
The celebration continued all summer.
There were weekend reunions with
former staff directors (see next
articles) and an all-camp reunion with
guest muscian Jonathan Rundman and
basketweaving with Pam Bailey.
Serving as master of ceremonies was
Dan Cochell, radio station manager from
Colorado Springs, and a camper at Sky
Ranch in the 1970s who just recently
became reacquainted with the camp. Here’s to the next 50 years!
Alton Schwandt, one of the original
committee members charged by the – Deborah Price, Tuxes and Tevas
church to find a camp, shared early Chairperson
1980’S REUNION
Celebrating Sky Ranch’s 50th anniversary
with the, “Bob Kuehner generation” was
a tremendous experience. Karen and
I deeply enjoyed coming to this sacred
place, seeing old friends, telling favorite
stories, and experiencing again warm Sky
Ranch hospitality. Watching this summer’s
staff reminded us of the privilege we
once had. We appreciated the good food,
the opportunity to hike familiar trails, and
the joy of laughter. Our weekend reunion
included worship and communion at the
outdoor chapel.With Sky Ranch fortitude,
we were undeterred by rain and were
rewarded with the special attendance of
a mother moose and her calf.
For many of us, working at Sky Ranch was
a foundationally formative experience.
We grew in our faith,
developed new skills to
serve others, became
greater advocates for
God’s creation, and
embraced God’s grand
mission in the world.
Returning to this place
that shaped us gave
us an opportunity
to thank Bob for his
leadership, thank the
current staff for their
faithful service, and
thank God for all the
blessings we received in God’s glorious
mountains. May God bless Sky Ranch’s
next 50 years!
Sincerely,
Pastor Paul Leslie – 1978 Summer
Backpack Guide, 1980 Summer Program
Coordinator
Page 9
www.SkyRanchColorado.org
1990’S REUNION
R and E. Two small letters, but ones
that meant so much to a few dozen
former staff members who gathered this
summer at Sky Ranch to celebrate our
shared experiences and the journey we
have taken apart. Put them together, and
the re- went far beyond only a reunion.
the Holy Spirit pass through
us. For those of us whose
spiritual batteries were low,
the weekend helped to
reignite that passion.
Remembrance and Reflection:
The weekend at Sky Ranch also
Reintroductions: For some, it was the allowed us the opportunity
first time in decades back to a place that to share our stories about
played a key role in our future lives. But the Rev. Dr. Mark Frickey, an
Sky Ranch has not been a ship in a bottle; ordained minister who served
it has grown its ministry and connected in three years at Sky Ranch in the
new ways with congregations throughout late 1980s and early 1990s.
the synod and the nation. It was a pleasure Mark died earlier this year of
to tour the new programs and see the complications from a longtime ailment,
growth of the older ones.
and one of his requests was for some of
his ashes to be spread from the summit
Renewal: Sky Ranch was the first church of Comanche Peak. A dozen friends and
of my adult life. For many of us, Sky Ranch family – half of them ordained ministers
was a very important milepost on our themselves – trekked the miles necessary
spiritual journeys as we proclaimed the to make that wish a reality.
word of God to our campers and felt
Reunion: You can’t have a reunion unless
there is something that unifies you to
start. For those who gathered for the
reunion of the staffs of the Rev. Ron
Letnes, that unity was reaffirmed – to be
advocates for Christ and Christ’s love.
– Jeff Stahla
2000’S REUNION
Staff from the 2000’s gathered with Ralph
Yernberg (former Executive Director) and
Joel Abenth (former Program Director)
to Remember, Experience, Imagine and
Celebrate Sky Ranch and 50 years of
ministry on the mountaintops. The group
spent the weekend telling stories from
their time on staff and discovering anew
what makes the place and ministry of Sky
Ranch so special.
DISC GOLF - THE BACK NINE
Since the initial 9 baskets of Sky Ranch’s
disc golf course were donated by the
generosity of Dan and Cathy Hueter
and installed with the help of family and
friends during the Memorial Day Work
Weekend in 2012, Disc Golf has become
one of the most popular activities at Sky
Ranch. Not only do most of our cabin
groups use it during the week and our
retreats and rentals on the weekends, a
surprising number of people drive up to
Sky Ranch just to play for the day.
With this great success, the time has come
to expand the course with a “back nine.”
With the help of alumni Adam Martin, 9
new hole locations have been identified
to create a complete 18 hole course.The
goal will be to install these additional 9
holes during the 2014 Memorial Day
Work Weekend.
The total cost for supplies for an
additional nine holes, as well the cost of
producing signs with basket location and
distances for each tee is $4,500.
For more information, to see a picture
of the proposed layout, or to make
a donation to support the expanded
course, please go to our website: www.
SkyRanchColoraod.org/disc-golf, or call
our office and talk with Andy. You can
also come to the 2014 Memorial Day
Work Weekend to help install the new
baskets and new signs and be among the
first to play the expanded course!
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
SKY RANCH WISH LIST
Page 10
ALUMNI CORNER - JULIA PINIAZKIEWICZ
My journey began
in the hallway of
a place called the
“Dance
Factory.”
Becca
described
Sky Ranch Lutheran
Camp in a way
that lit up the
whole room with
eyes bulged and
With good stewardship in mind, here is
a list of things Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp words that flowed like honey. Suddenly,
I could not imagine myself anywhere
can use:
else that summer but on a mountaintop
• Car or mini-van for day camp use
ministering to youth and praising the
glory of God.
• Supplies for a New Sauna by river
Sky Ranch would not be where it is today
without the faithful gifts of time, talents,
and treasures of 50 years of supporters
like you! Many of our vehicles (donations
from years past) are older and need
replacing. You may be able to deduct the
fair market value of a vehicle donation
to Sky Ranch on your Federal and State
income tax return.
• Commercial slicer for meat/cheese
After an extensive application process,
• Airline miles – for staff recruiting & two interviews with Andy Sprain,
camp promotion
something happened – I was employed.
Now there was only one problem…was
• 15 Passenger Van
it really “me” they were looking for?
• Gas cards
• CFL or LED light bulbs
I had grown up in a troubled home.
• Lawn mower (we now have grass Raised apart from any traditional religious
where we used to have trees)
structure, i.e., “church”, I struggled with
where I stood in God’s kingdom. Thus,
• Postage stamps
how adequate of a person was I? My
• Whole or half beef or bison (Camp
earthly father died when I was three. I
can pay for processing)
had endured the hardships of a broken
• Upright freezer for pack out room
family. Still, I believed in God. Though I
• New sports equipment (basketballs, am unsure of why I held so steadfastly
volleyballs, soccer balls, etc.)
to this mysterious God, I do know that
it was the hope God gave me that kept
• Pig (Camp can pay for processing)
me moving forward in my life. Reflecting
• Clear 2 liter pop bottles with caps
on my new position at Sky Ranch, I
• Grow lights to grow seedlings for began to tell myself that this camp must
greenhouse
want someone who knows the Bible
• New shovels and hand tools for trail backwards and forwards, is living a sinless
life. Surely they wanted the perfect Julie,
maintenance
and with final exams coming up and three
• Pudgie Pie Tins
part-time jobs, I just did not know when I
• Twin mattresses for the lodge
would squeeze in this self-improvement.
• 2 – 16’ x 16’ Canvas Tents (contact
us)
Before I knew it I was heading up to Sky
• Yard garbage bags – 33 gallons or Ranch; Me, a sinner and a saint, with a
purple tub, out three part-time jobs, and
more
into a world full of the unknown.
• Commercial Grade Vacuums
• Adirondack or rocking chairs for Day one came with a downpour on the
deck use
mountain, and a fellowship that washed
my anxieties away. I will vividly remember
that day for the rest of my life – feeling
that the winding road leading up to
Sky Ranch was going to continue into
eternity; seeing the smiling faces of the
staff in the warm, inviting lodge; receiving
the embracing laughter of the new
faces before worship began; and sitting
in the Backpack Center praising the
Lord with men and women who would
become over the next 10 weeks a lifetransforming family of God to me.
By day four I knew Sky Ranch was not
your average job. On May 28, 2012, I
wrote in my journal, “This could be the
Coldstone, cake mix of my life.” Within
days I felt as though I had known my fellow
staff members for years. I was surprised
at how quickly I felt comfortable and
safe in this new environment. I faced so
many fears and doubts through prayer, in
community, and experienced the God’s
Spirit working healing deep within me,
and in others as well. It was not hard to
see I was now residing on holy ground.
Everyday Grace was the theme of the
summer. One of the greatest blessings
about being a camp counselor for a whole
summer was having the opportunity to
engage with youth and experience their
amazing capacity for love and acceptance
– everyday grace! There was joy in taking
in the imaginary moose, acting like spies,
and there was beauty in overcoming
fear, celebrating successes, and finding
compassion in exploring one’s personal
story and growing in faith.
It is funny how in life we take an
opportunity because we think we are
going to help others, only to find that
opportunity ends up saving us. God
poured grace beyond measure into my
life by bringing me into the Sky Ranch
community. I learned that the light of
Jesus Christ shines through brokenness –
my brokenness. I am God’s child and will
forever be changed by His Love.Through
His grace, I am whole.
Page 11
www.SkyRanchColorado.org
HER GIVING LIVES ON
Last
November
Sky Ranch received
a letter from the
nephew of Helen
Miller
informing
us of her passing
earlier in the fall.
Throughout her life,
Helen worked with
agencies that were
Helen Miller remembers
moving into new
Sky Ranch in her will.
ways of caring for
children. In 1967 she went to Korea as
part of the Lutheran World Relief work
there and was later transferred to serve
in Indonesia. In 1974 she returned to the
United States to help in international
adoptions. Imagine our surprise when
Helen’s nephew informed us that Helen
had thoughtfully cared for the children
again by including Sky Ranch in her estate
plan. Helen’s legacy was one of caring for
children across the world.
have to Sky Ranch or your congregation.
As a partner with the ELCA Foundation
and the Lutheran Community Foundation,
Sky Ranch has access to the services of
We may think that our legacy is set Gift Planners. Many of these planning
before our death and typically that is services are available at no charge to
true. However, consider Alfred Nobel; you when you plan to give to a qualified
remembered as the philanthropist whose ministry. These planned gifts are your
foundation promotes world peace legacy and assure that your money will
through the Nobel Peace Prize. Nobel live on to do God’s work for generations
made his fortune by inventing dynamite. not yet born! What you do today does
Nobel was able to shape a legacy much shape your legacy, and what your money
different than what would have normally does after your death can enhance and
followed from his invention by planning define that legacy.
to use his wealth to benefit future
generations. By planning through your Please consider leaving a legacy through
will, trust, qualified retirement plan or life Sky Ranch. If you have been thinking
insurance policy to leave money to your about your estate plans and would like
desired ministry or organization, you to know more about giving options that
can help define your legacy of Christian can benefit both your family and Sky
stewardship.
Ranch, please contact me, Brad Abbott,
Executive
Director,
970-493-5258,
Consider the future impact that you can [email protected].
How about you? What will your
legacy be? Let us help you “LEAVE-ALEGACY” here at Sky Ranch.
THRIVENT POLICY HOLDERS AND THRIVENT
CHOICE DOLLARS
Thrivent Choice Dollars give people the
opportunity to designate which nonprofit organization their “charity dollars”
will benefit. The funds we receive are
vital to the programs we provide and
the facilities we maintain. In 2012, we
received $47,000 from Thrivent Policy
Holders who made Sky Ranch one of
their choice organizations!
Please consider designating us again
in 2013! Be aware – there have been
some important changes to the Thrivent
Choice for 2013. Thrivent has ended the
recurring direction option.
What does this mean to you? If you
would like Sky Ranch to continue to
benefit from Choice Dollars, you must
annually re-identify us as the beneficiary
of your Choice Dollars.
What does this mean for Sky Ranch? If
you do not annually identify Sky Ranch as
your Choice Dollars organization, we will
not be able to receive these funds!
Last year, over 200 individuals chose to
designate their Thrivent Choice Dollars
for Sky Ranch allowing us to provide
camperships and support foster children
and families attending camp. It has
also helped us to host no-cost work
weekends for groups and individuals to
prepare camp for its summer of ministry.
Thank you to Thrivent, local Thrivent reps
and all who continue to designate Sky
Ranch for their Choice Dollars.
Make sure Sky Ranch is your preferred
organization. It’s easy! Simply go online
to the Thrivent Choice Website or call
1-800-847-4836 and state “Thrivent
Choice”. With Thrivent, Sky Ranch is
still listed as “Lutheran Ranches of the
Rockies.”
Remember, this must be done annually!
We ask that you continue to support Sky
Ranch as you have in the past – with your
prayers, your financial support and your
witness. Through your support, campers
and staff will continue to “Experience
Christ on the Mountaintops.”
Thank you to Carl Guthals,
1964 Summer Camp Director and long
time donor, who recently gifted Sky
Ranch several Lutheran Study Bibles in
memory of his wife, Marianne. Check
out our “wish list” and see if there are
items you might gift to Sky Ranch.
SKY RANCH SUMMER CAMP
2014 SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE AND PRICING
Open registration for 2014 summer camp will begin SEPTEMBER 15.
Please check our website, www.SkyRanchColorado.org for a complete
listing of the summer schedule, descriptions for each of our programs, and
for our online registration. You can also call our office at 970.493.5258.
ONSITE PROGRAMS
Program (by age)
Round Up!
Homesteaders
Mountaineers
Seekers
Con - Intensive
Rendezvous
Family Camp
Offered Weekend (Starting Date)
July 6, July 13, July 27, August 3
July 6, July 13, July 27, August 3
July 6, July 13, July 27, August 3
June 8, June 15, July 20
June 22
Every Week
June 29
Registration before May 1
$160
$355
$355
$355
$380
$395
See Website
OFFSITE PROGRAMS
Program
Traveling Day Camp
Four Winds Service High Wilderness Backpacking
Registration
Starting at $1,450
$395 per participant
$395 per participant
Stay up to date with what’s going on at camp by reading the Sky Ranch
Blog. Go to our website, the News menu, and Sky Ranch Blog.
[email protected]
Andy Sprain - Associate Director
Kathryn Seyfarth - Program Director
[email protected]
[email protected]
Ally Plucheck - Office Manager
[email protected]
Brad Abbott - Executive Director
Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp
805 S Sheilds St
Fort Collins, CO 80521
970.493.5258
NON PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
US POSTAGE
PAID
FORT COLLINS, CO
PERMIT 309