From GramCamp to Cavod

Dear Friends,

Well, GramCamp did not disappoint! What a blast we had with our 11 precious grandchildren! One of the most fun days for everyone was our “Amish Day”… complete with a scavenger hunt at Kitchen Kettle, a buggy ride, and a special visit to Dave’s Amish homestead. The day ended with everyone dressed in Amish attire (thanks to Dave’s sister, Orpha!) and enjoying a homemade Amish meal. Dave and Orpha shared stories of their upbringing… being one of 14 children in a vibrant, faith-filled Amish home. It was truly meaningful and unforgettable.

The week was full of other adventures too, beginning with morning devotions and journaling, mini golf, a Phillies game, a trip to Refreshing Mountain, an exquisite dinner prepared by our grandson Jeremiah who is a chef, an epic water slide in our backyard, and we wrapped it all up with a day at Hershey Park! Oh, and let’s not forget Freddy the Teddy, who made surprise appearances throughout the week… even from the rooftop! It was a time of cousin bonding, basement sleepovers, endless laughter, and sweet memory-making!

Meanwhile, Cavod was just as lively! In mid-July, we hosted an Open House in New Holland, and followed it up with another at our Manheim location in early August. With WJTL’s Kids Cookie Break broadcasting live, free food and ice cream, bounce houses, and student performances… it was so great to connect with our Cavod family and meet so many new faces!

And that’s not all…

We also had Princess Camp in Manheim, Camp Create in New Holland, and our two-week Musical Theatre Camp, which ended with four amazing performances of “Finding Nemo Jr.”! Our campers absolutely shined… acting, singing, and dancing; and the behind-the-scenes teams (costumes, lights, and sets) were just incredible. Our staff poured into these kids spiritually, teaching them what it means to surrender their gifts to the Lord, stay humble, and fix their eyes on Jesus. Watching 50 kids performing on stage was incredible!

Then came our Dance Intensive, where 30 students trained in Hip-Hop, Ballet, Jazz, and Worship Dance. Beyond the technique, there were powerful moments of refreshment as they connected movement with worship and His presence.

Just this past week, we wrapped up the summer with two Arts Camps full of dance, crafts, music, and of course—more worship. It’s been a full season and our hearts are overflowing!

Now, we take a deep breath and look ahead to Fall Classes starting August 25! Classes are filling up quickly so don’t wait—secure your spot today! Click here to register! We can’t wait to welcome back familiar faces and meet new ones, all coming together to Create with Purpose and grow in our gifts.

On a personal note, I’ve still been soaking in the book The Awe of God by John Bevere. It’s been such a grounding reminder: when we fix our eyes on Jesus, the things of this world grow dim. Psalm 27 continues to speak deeply to me:

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed

That I would see the goodness of the Lord

In the land of the living.

Wait on the Lord;

Be of good courage,

And He shall strengthen your heart;

Wait, I say, on the Lord!”

He truly is our Rock in every season, through the challenges and the victories. How sweet it is to trust in Jesus!

And today, I want to speak this blessing over you:

“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory,

to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,

that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith;

that you, being rooted and grounded in love,

may be able to comprehend with all the saints

what is the width and length and depth and height—

to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge;

that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

(Ephesians 3:16–19)

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask or imagine… to Him be the glory!

Have a victorious week, my friends… preferably with a good cup of coffee!

With a grateful heart,