Overlook Retreat and Camp Ministries has experienced another busy and exciting year. In November we hosted the Shenandoah River District Conference (we believe this is the first District Conference that has ever been held at Camp) and held a Camp Work Day. Participants at the Work Day cut trees that had fallen across some of our paths and then split them. Another group tackled painting the interior of Swank Retreat. Following the Work Day and painting, new flooring was installed throughout the back part of Swank Retreat. Improvements continue to be made to Blessings Lodge and Swank Retreat, and more are still to come. Donations to help with these projects are appreciated. We have not quite reached our goal for the Lodge updates.
In December we will be hosting the Christmas Luncheons for the United Women in Faith on the 1st and 2nd. On December 20th, everyone is invited to join us for our Annual Walk to the Manger. Participants will register for the census (check in) at the Picnic Shelter and then wait for their Shepherd guide to take them on a night hike. Along the way you will meet some interesting characters and experience the wonder of Christmas. The journey will begin at 6:00 pm and the last hike will leave the shelter around 7:45 pm. Hot Chocolate will be available as you wait or after you return. We hope you can join us.
In January we are looking forward to our Winter Camp to be held January 16th – 18th. This is open to current 3rd graders through 12th graders. This weekend will be a combination of some of the favorite activities from the summer plus some things that only can happen in the winter. The Emmaus 4th Day Renewal Retreats will take place on the last two weekends in January. The Women’s retreat will be January 23 – 24 and the Men’s retreat will be January 30 – 31.
For more information or to register for any of our events, please visit our website, campoverlook.org. If you would like Chad or another staff member to visit your church, please contact the camp office at 540-269-2267 or send us an email at campoverlook@gmail.com.
Donations to support the ministry of Camp Overlook can be mailed to the Camp Office (3014 Camp Overlook Lane, Keezletown, VA 22832) or online. You can designate your gift for General Operating, Capital Improvement, Partners in Mission, or Camper Scholarships. We appreciate all the support that we receive from Churches and Individuals. Gifts of all sizes are welcome.
Chad Hrbek, Director of Overlook Retreat and Camp Ministries
chadhrbek@vaumc.org