A new year...same mission.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33
Happy New Year from all of us here at Riverside. As I reflect on 2022 and look towards 2023, I'm reminded of God's continued faithfulness. 2022 was a full year of ministry, where camp was often full of His kids (of all ages) encountering the extravagant love of God. The mission of Riverside is always in front of us, "To know Jesus Christ and to make Christ known to all", and continues to be the driving force for His camp. As we step into what the Lord has for 2023, we were reminded as a staff this morning in staff meeting to 'seek first the kingdom of God'--His will, His way, in His time. I invite you to join our team, our board, this ministry in seeking first the kingdom of God this year, and boldly trusting that He is with us no matter what the year ahead brings.
Sabbatical.
As I mentioned in December, I will be heading on sabbatical beginning January 7 and returning March 24. I'm so grateful for our incredible year around team, who are such gifted leaders in so many areas that partner with the Lord in carrying out our mission each and every day. This is my first sabbatical in 15+ years of full-time ministry and I'm so thankful for the opportunity to have this extended time of rest, refreshing time with the Lord, and time with family. If you need anything while I'm away, you may email our team at RLBC@riversideLBC.org and they will make sure to pass along your inquiry to one of our great team members to help you. I'll look forward to connecting with you when I return!
Year End Update.
The ministry of Riverside has been and continues to be supported by a great number of individuals, families, communities, and congregations from across the midwest. We fully believe this is the Lord's camp to be used for His purposes and His will, and we are grateful for the trust you place in us to continue the work God has called us to do. Over $481,000 was given in gifts to make a life-changing impact in the lives of thousands of people the Lord led here to camp this year, and will lead here in the future. We praise God for His provision and for all of you who partner with us in our mission! Thank you!
Looking toward the future.
Recently I was sifting through old files and photos from camp. One of the items I came across was some Master Planning documents from the late 1970's. As I looked through the dreams the Lord had laid upon the leaders of that time, it was incredible to see how those are many of the same visions we have for today. They were all rooted in the mission and purpose of the ministry, and providing places and spaces for kids of all ages to encounter the living God individually and in community here. As we look towards future planning and projects, we're excited to see how these plans will facilitate and host thousands of people each year for life-changing camp experiences. Some of the upcoming projects we're looking at this year are: office/welcome center remodel, new siding/covered entry at the Chapel, resurfacing basketball courts, hammock villages, and improving bathroom/changing areas in cabins. These are just a few of the projects that are great team helps make happen, and we're always looking for volunteers to help make these projects happen, and also be good stewards of the resources God has given us. If you're interested in getting involved, please email RLBC@riversideLBC.org to get connected!
God bless you, friends!
Chris
Executive Director
