Silver Lake's 60th Anniversary

Happy Birthday, Silver Lake!

By Lara Edmondson

Sixty years is a pretty long time to hang on to something, whether it be a home, a job, a marriage, a friendship, or our beloved Silver Lake Conference Center. It’s not always easy, and it takes dedication, team work, faith, and hope. 

In the past 60 years, Silver Lake has offered more than 2,100 summer conferences, ministering to approximately 67,000 campers. This would not have been possible without the countless volunteer hours of roughly 4,200 deans, 6,700 counselors, 900 Camp Family members, and 1,800 minimally paid camp staff. Not to mention the devoted leadership, supervision, and mentorship of 8 Camp Directors. 

Thousands of lives have been impacted by Silver Lake. Some have heard the calling to go into professional ministry, or to follow a path toward a spiritually fulfilling career choice or lifestyle. Some have met their spouses, made everlasting friendships, held weddings or baptisms in our beautiful outdoor ministry space. Some have learned to swim, sing, dance, play an instrument, or try a new food. Many have undoubtedly felt God in some way or another, in ways great or small that have had the capability to change a life. 

As we approach our 60th Anniversary Celebration in August, let us not only reminisce about the past, but envision a future. A future for Silver Lake that continues to invite, welcome, and empower all of God’s children. A future for Silver Lake that is financially sound, environmentally responsible, open and affirming, and demonstrates progressive Christian values. A future for Silver Lake that will instill hope and always remind us to Love God, Love Our Neighbors, and Love Ourselves.

More than 320 alumni and friends turned out for the celebration on Aug. 26. All agreed, it was a great day!

 

View our photo gallery.