The biggest share of the summer camping season has come to a close. A common sentiment is, “I can’t believe the summer is over.” Stores are advertising “back to school” sales, practice is beginning for the fall sports, and people are trying squeeze in last minute vacations. It has been a good summer for the ministry of Wi-Ne-Ma Christian Camp.

Again I am impressed by the quality and passion of the leadership for our youth camps and conferences. They match creativity with a desire to share the gospel with the youth campers and the result is memorable experiences that form a foundation in building relationships with Jesus Christ. If you are ever in a place to say, “Thank You,” to these folks please do so – Tim Long, Ken Swatman, Cherie Friend, Matt Rader, Mike Nichols, Bruce Jones, Andy Johnson, Clare Buhler, Ken Harvey, and Raeann Suckow. They were the program directors and they along with their staff became the hands and the heart of the Camp’s ministry.

What do Siberia, East Africa, Papua New Guinea, Hong Kong, and New England have in common? All were featured at the 2007 Week of Missions. Registering 700 people this unique event has taken place continuously since 1950. Many thanks again to the program committee and the missionaries.

We are also pleased to present an artist conception of the renovated Missions Building (pictured above). The total to date received for this project is $173,620. We are moving ahead to be ready for plans and building permits. A geotechnical engineer and crew were out here this week drilling 50 foot holes around the Missions Building to prepare a report required by Tillamook County prior to preparing the plans to submit for the building permits. So we are trying to match the preparatory work with the funds coming in so as soon as we reach our target financial goals we can start construction. We are closing in on the preliminary goal of $250,000 to start construction, but don’t forget that we will need an additional $300,000 to finish the project.