Why A Christian Camp...

Why a Christian Camp? Lutheridge+ Lutherock Summer Camp will welcome thousands of campers this year. We will teach them concrete skills for Christian living, skills that they will use for a lifetime. We will affirm their gifts and coach them to affirm each other. Our staff supports and encourages our campers to stretch and grow, rejoicing in accomplishments and seeing failure as a chance to try again. Our goal is that every camper who comes to Lutheridge+Lutherock goes home closer to Jesus, knowing Him better and loving Him more.

Why choose our Christian Camp? Other camps boast improved skills in concrete, measurable areas: shots on goal. Most offer the chance to build self-esteem and develop teamwork through practice drills and competition. This is fine and can be valuable, but it is easy to be fooled into thinking that secular camps teach “real-life” skills that kids can use, and Christian camps do not. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The skills that campers will learn at Lutheridge+Lutherock this summer are just as tangible and useful.

Self-esteem and teamwork are emphasized, but will not be taught through drills and competition. Each camper will be supported and encouraged to try new things, to stretch and grow in ways that are appropriate. For some first-time campers, that will mean cutting their own meat or sleeping in a cabin. For high school youth it may be hiking 20 miles on the Appalachian Trail or putting a new roof on a Habitat cabin. Campers go home amazed at what they CAN do, not only by themselves, but as a team. Throughout the week, campers learn to live and work and play together. Middle school and high school campers spend time on the Group Interaction Course, a low ropes adventure that teaches campers problem solving and leadership skills. Campers are taught HOW to be encouraging and affirming of one another. Every child goes home feeling like a winner.

For parents and baptismal sponsors, sending a child to church camp is an excellent way to show commitment to the promises made on the child’s behalf at the baptismal font. A week at Lutheridge+Lutherock in no way replaces regular worship or involvement in a home congregation, but it does give youth a broader and deeper understanding of the church and of the faith which the church proclaims.

Our counselors are also important role models for campers. Talented college students, committed to Christ and excited about sharing their faith and love for children, receive two full weeks or more of intensive training before campers are entrusted to their care. They show campers that a life of faith is not only fulfilling, but also fun! They hear problems and offer advice to situations that campers just would not share with the “grownups” in their lives. And over and over, throughout the summer, they point to Jesus as THEIR counselor, their strength and joy. Young people expect parents, teachers, and pastors to do that, but when “cool” college counselors live their faith and mean it…then campers believe it can be true in their own lives…here and now.
At Lutheridge+Lutherock these are skills and attitudes that can be put to use tomorrow and will last a lifetime. Few of today’s children will still be leading cheers or playing soccer when they are fifty. But they will still be relating to people in their family, workplace and neighborhood. They will still be children of God living out the covenant of their baptism.

Take a moment and check out our different Summer Camp Curriculum's, you will be inspired to have your child join us this summer.

Springtime in the Mountains...

Winter is almost behind us and it is time to make plans for some “Springtime Fun”.
What better tonic to get into the groove of a new season than a Retreat at Lutheridge?
Have you been to the Biltmore Estate lately? Imagine spending the day at one of America’s premier historic Estates, during the “Biltmore Festival of Flowers”.


The gardens will be in full color; come and walk the extensive grounds and enjoy the beauty of the Wisteria, Roses, Tulips and Azaleas. The gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmstead with such brilliance and foresight that they are as magical today as they were almost 100 years ago. Olmstead is considered the father of American landscape architecture and designer many well-known urban parks such as Central Park in New York City. The Festival of Flowers is an experience not to be missed.
So here is the deal.
Arrive at Lutheridge on Monday. Your housing will be ready and if your group would like a space to have time together, we can provide that. Enjoy time on your own at Lutheridge, or visit the North Carolina Arboretum, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the Folk Art Center, or any activity that will bring you joy! Lutheridge staff will greet you at dinner to let you know about your time here.
After breakfast at Lutheridge on Tuesday you depart for the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate. We will provide you with directions and ideas of what to do while at Biltmore. Lunch is on your own at one of the Estate's dining establishments. Meet us back at Lutheridge for dinner and devotions.
On Wednesday, feel free to wander around Lutheridge after we say goodbye to you at breakfast. Enjoy the rocking chairs, have a meeting with your group, or visit the towns of Asheville or Hendersonville. Make your time at Lutheridge+Lutherock Retreat Center be exactly what YOU want it to be.
The Details….
Cost for “Spring in the Mountains” is a very affordable $144 per person. This price includes 4 meals, double occupancy housing, evening singing and devotions, and a one-day general admission ticket to the Biltmore Estate. Children 12 and under: $75 (includes Biltmore one-day ticket). For questions about housing and cost, contact Stacey at scoleman@llmi.org or 828-684-2361 ext. 335.
Register today, this retreat is filling up fast.

Leap into Spring...

LEAP into spring! Lutheridge+Lutherock are offering a set of programs that were specifically created for school group retreats. What better way to celebrate the end of the school year? The spring season is growing in popularity. Take a moment and imagine spending your "Class Retreat" at the Biltmore Estate and nearby Riverbend Farm or Grandfather Mountain, home of the United Nations Biosphere Reserve. The LEAP Program also offers trips to the Pisgah National Forest which provides many opportunities for environmental learning and ski trips to Wolf Laurel, Sugar Mountain and Appalachian. We have worked hard to create a wide variety of outdoor educational experiences. Lutheridge+Lutherock also feature a group interaction course and the Alpine Challenge Towers. All of our “Class Retreat” experiences are fun, educational, memorable and will be uniquely yours.
We are eager to work with your group to accomplish the goals of your retreat. Whether we simply provide you with space, or if you choose, you can have our staff personally involved in the leadership of your retreat. Our staff is attentive to details and knows the surrounding area well, which will make your retreat a resounding success.
Lutheridge+Lutherock would like to show you why so many private schools have chosen us for their “Class Retreats”. Groups continue to come year after year because of our staff and the memorable experiences. Our program specialist is trained in group-building initiatives and has more than 17 years of experience with group dynamics and team-building. Contact Van to start planning your LEAP today--email or call him at 828-209-6303.

The Buzz:
In addition to the bonding that occurs, there is a confidence that each student gains from the new experiences. The opportunity to push themselves and encourage others to do the same is a quality that stays with them well beyond the week on the mountain. In the past few years we have added a slide show from Lutherock to our graduation ceremony. It immediately became the highlight of the evening. I have run into many of our now 9th grade students over the fall - every one of them is still wearing their blue yarn from the closing campfire! My daughter is graduating from high school this year. She doesn't have her yarn bracelet anymore, but she still has fond memories of the time spent there. The staff is great. The activities are memorable. The chores, group games, and campfire devotions help expand each person no matter where they are in their personal walk. We are still waiting for our first negative feedback!!!
Laura Bluhm, Advent School, Florida
The staff took our ideas (we wanted a nature hike, canoeing, the Challenge Tower, and a cookout) they (Lutheridge/Lutherock) organized it, set it up, provided the proper staff (lifeguards, certified personnel, etc.) and all we did was show up! It couldn’t have been any smoother. The Challenge Tower was certainly a major highlight of our stay. Our children and staff commented on how good they felt about themselves after conquering such a fun, but challenging obstacle. Some children spoke of not being sure if they could do some of the challenges only to end up with more self-confidence than they came with!
Joe Tamer, Principal-Glenn C. Marlowe Elementary School

Summer Camp Savings, Hurry...

Summer is fast approaching! At Lutheridge+Lutherock we have put together a splendid and varied array of Summer Camp Programs for kids of all ages. Sign-up before March 15th to receive the best price of the season.

At Lutheridge each camper is part of a cabin group of up to eight campers and one college-age counselor. Christian community, making friends and teamwork are stressed, assuring that each camper is valued and encouraged. Regular camp activities include swimming, crafts, games, hikes, singing, campfires and more! Creative Bible study and worship are a part of each day’s schedule. Younger campers canoe in the lake on site and end the week with a Water Olympics. Campers who are middle school age and older experience the low ropes course on camp, go on an outing into Pisgah forest, and celebrate the week’s end with a dance.

At Lutherock our campers are part of an adventure group of up to eight youth and one college-age counselor. Christian community, making friends and cooperation are as important as assuring that each camper is valued and encouraged to be the best they can be. Our counselors build a relationship with each camper, nurturing their faith journey during the week they are at camp and beyond. Our regular camp activities include the group interaction course, ropes courses, loop hike, rock slide, ice-cream making, singing, campfires, and much more. Creative Bible study and worship are a part of each day’s schedule. Outdoor adventure programs include additional activities such as rafting, backpacking, caving, rock climbing, and rappelling.

We have also created and are launching a new “Music & Drama Camp”.
At M.A.D. Camp the kids will enjoy days filled with music, drama, and a whole new cast of friends! Campers will perform the musical "AMERICAN IDEAL" on Friday afternoon. Families are invited to attend. Mornings will be spent in rehearsals and afternoons and evenings in regular camp activities such as swimming, crafts, games, hikes, campfires, and more. If you've ever wanted to be in a show, this is the camp for you.

At Lutheridge+Lutherock there is something for kids of all ages and interests. Summer Camp is a magical time for children. It helps to shape them by exposing them to the beauty of nature, the camaraderie of friends, and the joys found in their faith and spirit. We believe these are all important components in the building blocks of every young person’s life.

So here is the deal, if you sign up before March 15th you will enjoy the best price of the season. We also are offering the “Faith Formation Stimulus Package”. There are many ways to join us at camp this summer at Lutheridge+Lutherock. Sign-up today.

Campfirmation...

When we receive letters, photos, and testimonials from our various program, guest groups, & camp attendees it always makes our hearts sing. These notes and emails reinforce our commitment to continue to bring you the best programs and services we can possibly offer.

Recently Pastor Mary Canniff-Kuhn, Lutheridge co-director of program, and coordinator of the summer Campfirmation program, received the following heartfelt email from Keith Buterbaugh, a Sunday school teacher at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Douglasville, Georgia:

“I have taught Sunday school for six years. Two years ago I was struggling; my class size was dwindling and my success rate was too. It had been a long while since I’d had one of those magic moments in my classroom where the kids face lights up, you can see the wheels turning and the light bulb comes on over their head. None of that was happening and I was starting to doubt myself. I prayed and waited. The Lord heard my prayer and when Sunday School started in September 2007, my class size had tripled over what it had been. One Sunday I asked the class the question ‘Have you ever felt like you were in the presence of God?’ I went on to describe the miracles I’d witnessed in life including when my children were born….Then it happened. A usually quiet, soft-spoken girl was bursting at the seams, wildly raising her hand and dying to share her story. ‘At Campfirmation this and at Campfirmation that’. There was no end to it. I just sat back and grinned and let her go on for 20 minutes. Now I’d like to thank you for making it possible.”

Keith, you are welcome. We think it is terrific to hear we are making a difference in a young person’s life.

Did you know that nearly 1000 confirmands attend Lutheridge+Lutherock each summer with their pastor to learn the catechism, to experience the joy of the Christ-centered camp communities and to witness the Christian role models of staff? Hundreds more come for a weekend “Faith Alive!” campfirmation experience at Lutheridge throughout the retreat season. Visit our website to learn more about the opportunities for camp, Confirmation Camp, and Faith Alive!

Do you have a story to share? It is always wonderful to hear your feedback and how our programs impact you, your family and your faith. If you know of someone or a group with a story to tell from their experience at Lutheridge, Lutherock, or Lutheranch, please let us know! Drop us an email today.

Faith Formation Stimulus Package...

Summertime is a magical time of year here at Lutheridge+Lutherock, we relish the long languid days filled with the laughter and joy of our Summer Campers. We have created many terrific programs for kids of all ages. Christian community, making friends, teamwork and creative Bible Study are key to making the camp experience as wonderful and memorable as possible. At camp our days are filled with many activities such as Music and Drama, Outdoor Games, Swimming, Canoeing, Singing Campfires, Camaraderie and Arts & Crafts. The goal for our campers is to have fun, grow in faith, and learn something new everyday.
Lutheridge+Lutherock Ministries believes all children and youth should have a summer camp experience, regardless of their family’s financial situation. In response to uncertain economic times in our country, we have recently developed a “Faith Formation Stimulus Package”. Simply put, the program is specifically designed to service our campers whose parents may have been layed-off or have recently lost their jobs. We feel that it is important to “give back”. It is a simple process, log onto LLMI.ORG, click on “News and Calendars” to download and fill out the paper work, and then send to us. It is that easy. (It is hoped that the family and home congregation can assist with the camp fee, but it is not required.)

Summer Camp is an adventure for kids of all ages. If you know someone who may want to apply for our "Faith Formation Stimulus Package" please forward this email or if you would like to apply, now is the time. Lutheridge+Lutherock is the place to learn, have fun, grow in faith, and make the most of any child’s summer.

Create in Me! Create in You...

Springtime in the Appalachian Mountains is a magical time of year. All of the trees, plants and flowers are bursting with color, life and energy. Here at Lutheridge+Lutherock we believe “Creativity” is a natural compliment to such a vibrant season.
Seven years ago we created a program to celebrate the creativity that lies within all of us. The dates for the 2009 "Create in Me" program are April, 30th-May, 3rd.
Imagine working and creating in one or many of the following mediums: Music, Wood, Icons, Clay, Movement, Words, Cooking, Beads, Stained Glass, & More!

Enter the wonderful exchange of ideas encouraging creativity as central to life of faith. Amateurs and professionals... expert or beginner - Come and be inspired, encouraged, and re-created. Enjoy whole group presentations and Bible study. Participate in creative worship and enriching fellowship. Workshops and creation stations offer hands-on opportunities to try new arts and crafts in a safe place where you cannot fail. Process over product is stressed - and everyone is a beginner at something. Meet others striving to give God's creativity larger space in their lives.


We have put together a package that is not only value oriented but also packed with creative projects, fellowship and fun. Sign up today, you will be happy you did.

Some Details…
AN AMAZING DEAL: $225.00 FEE includes three nights lodging in Thornburg Hall (double occupancy), all meals (Friday breakfast-Sunday breakfast), AND all art materials and instruction!
$273.00 single room in Thornburg Hall or double room in Kohnjoy Inn (no single rooms in Kohnjoy)
$145.00 day participant rate (includes all meals)
REGISTER ONLINE
Register by March 1, 2009 (postmarked or online),


Click here to view our movie and find out more about you and Create in Me!
The dates for the 2009 "Create in Me" program are April, 30th-May, 3rd.