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SUMMER NEWSLETTER
- aliciamorandesigns
- Jul 28
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 31
7 TIMES AROUND
A Note From Josh
Greetings Lakeview Family,
We can learn so much from the Israelites’ journey with God after being freed from Egypt. Their perseverance and faithfulness ultimately delivered them to the Promised Land. As you might tell from my name and the title of this article, Joshua is one of my favorite people in the Bible. His faithfulness to God and perseverance to continue following where God sent him, even when it was circling the city of Jericho 7 times on the 7th day, is truly an example to all of us in how we should dedicate our lives. Like Joshua and the Israelites, God will do amazing things when we are obedient to the task He sets before us. From day one, God has been building and evolving Lakeview to carry out His plan and ministry. As we look to the future, our prayerful obedience will prove to be fruitful as God is glorified and lives are impacted in the name of Jesus Christ. This quarterly newsletter is intended to bring you along with us as God leads us forward. I believe God has some big things in store at Lakeview and am grateful for your dedication and support. Your experiences at Lakeview have been pivotal in your Faith journey and pray that you will continue to make Lakeview your Holy Ground for time with God.
Our 2025 summer has been amazing. All of the groups that have hosted camps at Lakeview have seen God work in powerful ways. Whether through worship, workshops, small groups, or time in prayer, it is always a blessing to see God reveal Himself to our campers, adults, and staff. Most of our camps have seen an increase in the number of people attending and we are grateful to be part of their faith journey.
If you didn’t make it to Family Camp, you really missed out. It was a wonderful weekend for everyone. Our staff did a great job improvising as the rain caused us to change plans on July 4th. We were able to enjoy the inflatables, carnival games, the pool and fireworks on Saturday evening. It was a great way to end a fun day that started with our first fishing tournament, worship with speed painting by Wayne Kerr, a painting workshop and lots of activities. We finished on Sunday morning as Wayne and Reverend Jennifer Hodson led us in a powerful worship service. The testimonies of our families in attendance proved that God planned the weekend and we were blessed to be His hands and feet.
Facility updates: While we do not yet have cost estimates, we are working to finalize the plans for Peace Chapel and another reconstruction of our beloved Thunder Bridge. Currently, we are working to finish the remodel of three of our staff homes due to necessary foundation repairs.
Mission Opportunities: We are excited to begin offering mission opportunities for you, your family, and your church. In our next newsletter, we will include more details as well as possible dates for you to join us in ministry.
Retreats: In addition to Mid-Winter and Family Camp, we are excited to work with you, your family, your church or organization to host an event at Lakeview. Explore our website to see what we offer and contact us to see how we can enhance your event.
Thank you for your support. We cannot continue Making an Impact without your dedication to Christ and the power of His presence here at Lakeview.
Blessings in Christ,
EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
FAMILY CAMP 2025: A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER!
This July, families gathered at Lakeview for an unforgettable Family Camp experience. From the first-ever fishing tournament to fireworks and powerful worship with Wayne Kerr and Pastor Jennifer Hodson, the weekend was packed with laughter, connection, and the unmistakable presence of God.
Even a little rain couldn’t dampen the joy—spirits stayed high, memories were made, and hearts were full. One camper summed it up best: “We wish we didn’t have to go home tomorrow!”
We loved seeing families grow closer, try new adventures, and rest in God’s goodness together. Thank you to every family who came and to everyone who helped make this weekend possible. We’re already dreaming of what next year will bring!
To view a gallery from Rooted: Family Camp 2025, click here.
SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS
This summer, Lakeview is alive with energy, purpose, and countless moments of connection. We are honored to be the gathering place for so many wonderful camps and communities.
From UMC, GMC, and other private camps filling our spaces with worship, adventure, and discipleship, to Choir Camp echoing songs of praise across the grounds, every week has brought something unique and meaningful. Right now, Fish Camp is still in full swing, and we love seeing new faces arriving ready to make memories that will last long after summer ends.
We are so grateful for each group who has chosen to call Lakeview home. It’s a joy to watch friendships form, faith deepen, and lives touched by the experiences happening here every day.
Thank you for being part of this incredible season with us. We can’t wait to see all that God continues to do in the weeks ahead.
GOLF TOURNAMENT
Mark Your Calendars—Lakeview's Golf Tournament Returns This November!
We’re gearing up for another great day on the green in support of Lakeview! While details are still being finalized, we wanted you to be the first to know that our annual Golf Tournament is set for November 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for the fellowship and fun, this event is a chance to connect, compete, and make a lasting impact.
• 18 holes of golf
• Prizes & giveaways
• Awards banquet to follow
• Sponsorships available
More details—like location, date, and registration—are coming soon! In the meantime, grab your clubs and spread the word. Let’s make this year’s tournament one to remember.
FACILITY UPDATES
A MORE ACCESSIBLE PRAYER TRAIL!
We’re excited to share that our prayer trail now has a freshly paved entrance, making this peaceful space more accessible for everyone who visits.
Whether you come to Lakeview for a retreat, camp, or personal time away, we hope this trail continues to be a place where you can walk, reflect, and draw closer to God. It’s just one more way we’re working to ensure that every guest can experience rest and renewal in the beauty of creation.
LABYRINTH PREVIEW
We’re excited to share a glimpse of what’s coming to the head of our Prayer Trail—a new prayer labyrinth, designed to be a peaceful place of reflection, prayer, and spiritual renewal. This space will feature dedicated benches honoring Lakeview team members who have served faithfully for 20 years or more.
Though the site is still being prepared, the vision is clear: a sacred path to pause, reflect, and honor those who have walked faithfully with us. Stay tuned—we can’t wait to share more as it unfolds.
MEET THE TEAM
Welcome, Ben Moran — Our New COO!
We’re excited to officially welcome Ben Moran as Lakeview’s new Chief Operating Officer!
Ben and his family have called Palestine home for 18 years, and his connection to Lakeview started in 2019 when he and his wife helped develop marketing materials for our 75th anniversary. This professional partnership led to a heartfelt sense of calling toward Lakeview.
In his new role, Ben is passionate about building a work culture where everyone feels connected, valued, and equipped. With a unique blend of experience—from Navy service to education leadership to maintenance, food service, and more—Ben brings a practical understanding of nearly every department on campus. He’s committed to strengthening communication across the organization and helping our team implement Lakeview’s mission in tangible ways.
When he’s not working, Ben enjoys time with his family, working on projects around his house and property, and dreaming about how to support the work God is doing at Lakeview.
MISSION OPPORTUNITIES
There are plenty of ways for you, your family, or your church or community group to get involved. From painting projects that brighten up our spaces to building Adirondack chairs and benches that offer rest and reflection, your time and talents can make a real difference. We’re also always in need of help with trail upkeep, trimming trees, and keeping our grounds beautiful. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just willing to pitch in, we’d love to serve alongside you.
SHARE YOUR LAKEVIEW STORY!
We love hearing how Lakeview has impacted your life, and now it’s easier than ever to share your experience! You can now submit testimonials and feedback directly through our website, helping us spread the word and invite even more people to fall in love with Lakeview.
If you feel comfortable, we greatly appreciate video testimonials—your stories bring Lakeview to life in a way that words alone cannot. Whether it’s a favorite memory, a life-changing moment, or what keeps bringing you back, your voice can inspire future campers, families, and guests.
Thank you for being part of the Lakeview family—we can’t wait to hear from you!
