Hey there,
This Talking Tuesday post will look different than we've seen these past few weeks. We have gotten to know some board members and some of our permanent staff and this week is no different in that respect - we will get to know our Food Services Manager, Ken Underwood, who has worked in his position for almost 18 years.
This week will look different though, as this is Ken's last Spring and Summer at Evergreen. He and his family have made the decision to move on as they feel God's calling taking them elsewhere. It has been such a privilege, for those of us at Camp, to watch what the Lord is doing in Ken's life these past months as He has begun equipping Ken in different areas for future ministry.
I have had the opportunity to work with Ken in different settings throughout my 4 years at Camp - as a regular seasonal staff, almost 2 years as his assistant, and most recently, working alongside Ken, administratively, throughout Evergreen-to-go and Guest Group/Wholehearted Camping Meals. I am so glad to call Ken a friend and am looking forward to seeing what God will do as he and his family step out in faith and obedience into this new venture!
I had the opportunity to ask Ken a few questions about his time at Camp and looking to the future, and here is what he had to say:
"As we have been here at Camp Evergreen for 17 years, we have had the opportunity to see God work in so many ways. Some of my most favourite ways that we have seen God work is in the transformations that take place in the lives of our seasonal staff as they have decided to stay at camp longer than a Summer season. I have seen so many staff come as campers, then they do our Pit Crew program, then they do the Internship program, then they are leading these programs. Another one of my favourite ways that I have seen God work as is in His provision, everything from BBQ's, hay, beef, to workers from MDS that were here one Summer to help build our newer cabins.
I think that one of the thinks we will miss most about working at camp are the opportunities we have had to build relationships over the years within our staff and volunteers, in our guest groups, and within our retreat groups. You are our friends and our family! We have met so many people over the years that have become very near and dear to our hearts. With the available technology, we will try to keep up with as many of you as we can. I will also miss the opportunity to teach about food, and serving, and of loving God in it all. I love being able to bless others with the gifts that God has developed in me, and I do love to teach. I am passionate about sharing my love of cooking and serving with others. I will most definitely miss those opportunities.
What is next for us? Well, that is the story of the hour. I am going to go back to school to finish up a Pastoral Degree. We are looking forward to having the opportunity to minister to those around us in a community setting.
I think that one of our biggest prayer requests is that we will be able to make the right choices at the right now. Provision: We are stepping out in faith and are trusting for God to provide. And for our kids, that they would be able to accept well the transitions that are happening in their lives as well. For our daughter: a few good friends. For our boys: quality friends. For Rachel and myself: That God would use us in mighty ways to impact the lives of the people that God places in our path.
We have gone through many different kinds of seasons here as camp, seasons where we have been blessed by great relationships; seasons where we have been challenged to look at change in different ways; seasons where we have been fatigued; seasons where we have had to walk through sickness; seasons of blessings; seasons being filled with joy, hope, and love. Through all of the seasons here at Camp Evergreen, God has been with us through it all and He is going before us as well, into the new adventure."
Thanks Ken, we sure will miss you!
Be sure to check out what we've got going on at Camp by visiting www.camp-evergreen.com
/events-and-retreats. Our Tough Camper fundraiser is back this year and happening on June 12th - be sure to register soon!
That's all for me today! If there is any way we can be praying for you, please don't hesitate to reach out with an email to guestservices@camp-evergreen.com and our permanent staff team will be more than happy to be praying for you.
Blessings,
Sarah 'Doodle' Deschatelets Hospitality Director
Camp Evergreen
403-638-4230
guestservices@camp-evergreen.com
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