As they reflect on their 24 years in ministry leadership at Suttle Lake Camp, Oregon, Jane and Daniel Petke recognize that UMCRM has been a steady presence for them all along. In recent years, family and camp responsibilities and limited travel budgets have kept them from being able to attend many in-person events, but they have leaned on virtual networks and resources to stay connected.
Jane remembers back in the 90s she was serving the local church, teaching, and volunteering a week here and there at camp, but she had not considered Camp & Retreat Ministry as a calling or career path. At her first UMCRM National Gathering it was so eye-opening to meet outdoor ministry professionals and see the passion they had for impacting lives and helping people connect with God through camps and retreats. Who knew that she would embark on a decades-long journey as a camp ministry professional?! Over the years, the large group worship, workshops, and overall experience of National events became an important source of connection and inspiration. Paying it forward, Jane has made a point to encourage interns, staff, and others to participate and connect with UMCRM.
A graduate of the Common Ground Certification in UMC Camp & Retreat Ministry, Jane remembers the rich experience of certification classes alongside wonderful, experienced leaders who became friends and mentors. The Ecology and Theology course was deeply moving, and the opportunity to go deeper with Biblical and theological foundations for Creation justice continued to influence her ministry through the years. She believes that many of the lessons learned through certification have enriched her faith and life, even beyond the context of camp.
Daniel doesn’t hesitate when asked about the impact of UMCRM in his ministry: the biggest help by far, he says, was the Association’s resources and support during the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when we were all just “making it up,” navigating unfamiliar territory and difficult decisions, UMCRM provided steady communication and a virtual community of peers who went through it together. He appreciates the way UMCRM stays abreast of trends and policy changes and advocates for UMC camps in ways that Camp Directors can’t always do.
Daniel also credits UMCRM with maximizing group purchasing power – his ministry has realized huge savings through Trinity/HPSI over the years, thanks to their connection as a UMCRM Business Affiliate and National Gathering vendor.
As they celebrate and reflect on their camp leadership, the Petkes are grateful that our Association was always there, providing connections across the miles to peers who understood their joys and challenges, and information that supported them in doing their best work.