May the peace of God be with you.
This past week, “dozer lines”[1] became a new term for my vocabulary and one more reason to give thanks. We are thankful to God for the U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE, firefighters, volunteers, and countless others who were able to hold back a spot fire that threatened our Loch Leven Camp & Conference Center, the city of Mentone, and our sibling UCC’s Pilgrim Pines Camp & Conference Center in Yucaipa. There is much to still be in prayer–the El Dorado fire, Bobcat fire and many other fires that continue to burn. Still, in our time of need, the dozer lines that were created by bulldozers and hand crews using tools years ago served its purposes. We give our thanks to the many heroes, who built this way and worked hard that we might endure.
We have seen how Disciples in the PSWR and from afar have shown love, concerns and care for Loch Leven. We begin with our gratitude for Rev. Layne Beamer (former pastor of FCC, Whittier) and friends who used their summer to help make a few improvements around the camp. I would encourage everyone to “Show your Love” for this beloved place. In the wake of the wildfires, there will be many more hands needed and efforts to help us restore these grounds. If your memories and joys of Loch Leven are plentiful, please follow its Facebook page for updates, and consider one of the many ways you can help this camp endure for years to come.
You have just read how a dozer line was made in the forest in order for these holy places to continue forth. In these times of unprecedented challenges, wildfires, civil unrest, pandemic, economic difficulties and so much more, we might yet hear a voice, as one from the prophet Isaiah (43: 19 NRSV): “I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the dessert.” In a time of trials and adversity our eyes opened, and collective work might find new ways for life in abundance. We are called to together, to share and piece these new ways. Our upcoming Regional Assembly (October 16-17, 2020), will provide opportunities for Disciples of all ages to become inspired, learn and reclaim the new and living way for us all. You can join us from the comforts of your own home. We will hear from some of our prevailing Disciples voices, Rev. Chanhee Heo and Rev. Yolanda Norton. Please register and let us celebrate our beautiful unity in diversity.
We are looking forward to seeing you, there. Please remain safe and well.
Blessings,
Richie