The Senior High Campers of Section 156

There is not a single appointee in the Community of Christ who is in their 30's who is "called" to minister in the United States or Canada.

Art Smith, was the youngest appointee at 1-time (he took the title away from me). Yet Art made his career in Canada, then Tahiti, now "South America."

For some strange reason, almost all the men I admire that still work for the church are involved in International (or cross-cultural) ministries.

Yet cross-cultural ministries is the hallmark of 21st Century church, regardless of your turf. I have seen Steve Shields as a "young" missionary in the Jungles of the 90210. Art learned to love K-State football in Manhatten (little apple, not Big Apple).

Gary. Gary Logan is perhaps one of the greatest builders of his generation in the Church. The man taught me about partnerships. He dreamed of a church and the YMCA sharing common turf. Yet he has been pushed aside by those with smaller dreams.

Yet the current hierarchy only seems to value these gifts "overseas." But when you grow up in Michigan, you know that one man's lake is another woman's ocean.

Perhaps that is why Park of the Pines was so special. Kids from across "the locks" interacted with their Michigan RLDS sisters and brothers.

Art, Jeff, Charmaine & Tony, Dan & Deb, Steve(s), Aimee & Val & their dad, and the current Bishop of Canada (my Jr. High Camp director) all know that Park of the Pines is a true campgrounds of Zion. (or is it reuniongrounds?)

edited and expanded on May 19th, 2007