Peniel Bible Camp

In the midst of winter... "think" camp!

2012-01-19T19:22:00.001-05:00

It might be the middle of winter, but it's time to start thinking about camp. Pleasant thoughts, huh? Warm, sunny days. Breeze coming across the lake. Meal time noise in Ashbrook Hall. Ice cream cones from the Snack Shop. Friends. Mr. V's creative games. Challenging Bible messages. Time spent alone in a quiet place seeking God face to face. Yes, that's Peniel Bible Camp!

Don't wait until the last minute to register for this year's camp. The brochures for the spring and summer camps have been distributed to churches. They have also been mailed to those who have attended the Father/Son Retreat, Mother/Daughter Retreat, Pastors' Conference, and Family Camps in the past several years. Brochures are available on the web to print, fill out, and mail. So, don't end up being on a waiting list or miss out on the blessing -- register today to attend Peniel Bible Camp in 2012.

VanderSchel Update: January 2012

2012-01-06T22:11:00.001-05:00

(For a printable version, click here.)

The VanderSchels / Ohio Bible Mission / January 2012

What We've Been Up To Lately:

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year fromthe VanderSchels! Yes, the busyness of the holidays put us a bit behind ingetting our newsletter out, but we’ll do our best to get you caught up.

Kim and the kids are finishing up their first semester ofhomeschool. Things have been much smoother since we’ve been able to move intoour schoolroom downstairs. The girls are especially enjoying their own bedroomsdownstairs, while Carson is now able to spread out in the loft room.

We enjoyed Thanksgiving with Kim’s family in Mansfield. MarkGoldfuss and his girls joined us for the Thanksgiving weekend while Mark andIzaac worked on a construction project in the rec hall.

Izaac and Kim both have had recent opportunities toparticipate in community activities outside of camp. Izaac has gotten pluggedin to the area basketball referee association and has been able to ref a goodnumber of basketball games in the public high schools. Kim has been certifiedto substitute teach in the local public schools and enjoys the variedexperiences that brings. Please pray that these opportunities will give us opendoors for witnessing.

Christmas brought a frenzy of excitement with 4 differentrounds of Christmas gatherings. We had our own Christmas as a family before weheaded to Mentor to spend time with Izaac’s family. After the kids werethoroughly spoiled rotten by grandparents and aunts and uncles and Carson andIzaac got to enjoy the Cleveland Cavs’ season opener, we came back to camp toawait the arrival of Kim’s family. We put up her parents and her two sistersand their families in the other A-frame cabins and enjoyed a flurry ofactivities—bowling, snow tubing, roasting marshmallows, swimming, playinggames, and fun times with 13 cousins hanging out together. About 18 hours aftereveryone left camp, we packed up the van and headed to Missouri to spend a fewdays with family there. We enjoyed a beautiful sunny 65 degrees New Year’s Eve.We had a great time with family, and the kids enjoyed meeting a new babycousin.

So, here we are on our trip back to Ohio, thinking of everythingpiled up and waiting for us back at camp—lots of Christmas stuff needing to beput away, emails to go through, a summer camp theme to get rolling on, and morechurches to call to schedule presentations.

We thank the Lord every day for the opportunity He has givenus to be a part of this ministry. May we be found faithful! Thank you so muchfor your continued prayers for our family.

What's Going On At Camp:

We are so grateful to the Lord for the desire He gives toothers to come serve at camp. We’ve had several individuals come to the campthis fall to work on various projects. Dan Corey is still faithfully comingtwice a week to fill in as Interim Facility Manager. He and Izaac have donemany things the past several months from consolidating and cleaning up areasaround the camp, working on the camp vehicles, resealing the roof of the rechall, and winterizing buildings. Mark Goldfuss was here Thanksgiving weekend toremodel and reinforce the octagon section of the rec hall. New window openingsand wood siding were installed, as well as slight changes on the interiorwalls. Right after Christmas, Jay Stone came to help Dan and Izaac begin toclear trees and brush from the downslope of the dam on the front lake. Thiswill help strengthen the integrity of the dam and prevent erosion. Several ofthe large upcoming projects include upgrading the electrical systems in theyouth cabins, lowering the snack shop ceiling, clearing the downslope of theback lake dam, and installing ceiling fans in A-frames. If you’d like to givetoward these or other ongoing projects around camp, please contact us. We’d alsolove to have your help. Bring a group from church or come alone to assist us onany of the projects mentioned above.

Springtime will bring our new Facility Manager and hisfamily to the camp. We’re so excited to serve with Nathan and Nikki Fry and arethankful that the Lord led them to this ministry!

Camp Needs:

Funding is still needed for reimbursement of printing costsof the summer staff t-shirts. If you are able to help meet this need, a specialoffering or gift would be greatly appreciated.

We are in the process of replacing some of the outdatedfurniture in the lakefront and A-frame cabins. If you've recently purchased somenew furniture for your home and have couches, chairs, end tables, dressers,lamps, desks, etc. that are still in good condition, please consider donating them to the camp.Contact us at pbcprogram@gmail.com or through Facebook.

Funding for above-mentioned projects.

Our Prayer Requests:

continued financial and prayer support of localchurches

wisdom determining whether to sell or rent our home inWCH

transition for the Fry family to the camp ministry

Kids' Column:

I had lots of fun playing with all my cousins this Christmas. I got two tickets to see the Cavs’ season opener, so my dad and I went to the game. Even though the Cavs lost we still had fun.

School will start again in a couple days. Third grade is pretty easy. I like to try some of the 6^th grade math problems that my mom teaches my sisters.

I hope we get lots of snow at camp this winter so I can play in it. I want the lake to freeze so I can walk and skate on it.

Love, Carson

Camp is beautiful in the winter! Stop by sometime and see itfor yourself!

Presentation Schedule:

January 22 - Update at Westerville Bible Church

February 26 - Maranatha Bible Church / Glenford

March 4 - Blue Rock Baptist Church / Philo

If you’d like to schedule an update or presentation, please contact us at pbcprogram@gmail.com

-------------------------------

Serving the Lord and Strengthening the Church by:

enhancing the current camping program

establishing new opportunities

encouraging continued involvement

Merry Christmas from Peniel's Summer Staff

2011-12-23T16:49:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas from the Peelers and Perrys!


Andrew, Joshua, Melody, Seth, Elizabeth and Jason Peeler / Patti and Ken Perry

Merry Christmas from Peniel!

2011-12-22T18:18:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas from the VanderSchels at Peniel Bible Camp!

Waiting for snow...

Ashlyn, Carson, and Brenna

Working through Unseasonably Warm November

2011-12-09T16:07:00.001-05:00

The October and November weather allowed Dan and Izaac to get a lot of work done outdoors this fall. Thanks to Mark who spent his Thanksgiving vacation rebuilding the Octagon walls.

Patching and painting the roof on Olden Hall.

Repairing a wall means you first have to remove the old wall

Window frames are squared up so they can be raised and lowered

Removing the debris

Finished walls - ready to paint

Throughout the fall and winter, dead trees are being removed from the wooded areas around camp.

Rain, rain, rain...

2011-12-07T12:19:00.001-05:00

We have had a LOT of rain in central Ohio this year. In fact, we have had over 4" of rain in the past 10 days!

The water level of the lake is very high after all the rain of the past 10 days!

Peniel Bible Camp and Ohio Bible Mission Announce New Facilities Manager

2011-11-30T16:38:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends of the Ohio Bible Mission and the Ohio BibleFellowship,

Please see the attached letter (text below) announcing the newFacilities Manager of Peniel Bible Camp. Thank you for your prayers and concern as we were searching for theLord's choice for this position.

If you have any questions, you may contact me at dnnlgallion@cleaninter.net.

Rev. Donald L. Gallion

President, Ohio Bible Mission

--------------------------------------

November 30, 2011

Members and friends of the Ohio Bible Fellowship,

The Board of the Ohio Bible Mission is pleased to announce the Lord’s provision of Mr. Nathan Fry to serve as Facility Manager of Peniel Bible Camp. Nathan and Nikki Fry along with their daughter, Tabatha, plan to move to camp and assume this new ministry for the Lord by April 1, 2012.

Nathan has significant experience in the construction and mechanical trades having worked with his father in construction and remodeling for over 10 years. He also studied carpentry for a year at the Bob Jones University School of Applied Studies. He also has a personal interest in “tinkering” with old tractors.

Nathan and Nikki have been very active in the ministry of Grace Bible Church in West Middletown, PA, where Steve Spence serves as Pastor. They have been regular attenders of the Couples’ Retreat at Peniel. Last summer Nathan served as a Teen 2 counselor and Tabatha served in the kitchen. Nathan’s expertise was very much appreciated earlier in the year as he worked to frame new rooms in the A-frame cabin for the VanderSchels.

We know you will enjoy getting to know the Frys and ask your prayers and support for them as they transition to this new calling. Pray also for the Lord's provision of support that will be needed for them to fulfill this ministry. Please contact them or mission@obf.net if you are interested in helping financially.

You are encouraged to become their friends on Facebook or send them words of encouragement at nnfry@verizon.net.

For His glory,

Donald Gallion
President
Ohio Bible Mission

November Day at Peniel

2011-11-18T12:06:00.001-05:00

Peniel Bible Camp: November 17, 2011
Partly sunny. High of 40*. No precipitation.

Mid-morning view across camp

Harvest decorations outside Ashbrook Hall

View of the lake through the leafless trees


Breeze coming across the lake making waves

Chapel viewed from the zipline path

View of Peniel Lake from the chapel

The designation of "chapel bridge" takes on new meaning when the leaves are not on the trees

View of Peniel Lake from the back side

Seeing the chapel through the trees from the base of the zipline tower

Interesting view of the chapel with the late afternoon sun shining directly through the windows

November sunset on Rogers Lake

Quiet, calm, refreshing day!

OBF Resolution

2011-10-15T17:44:00.000-04:00

A RESOLUTION ON JERRY AND CATHIE EDINGER

WHEREAS Jerry and Cathie Edinger have ministered with the Ohio Bible Mission at Peniel
Bible Camp for the past 15 years; and

WHEREAS Jerry has found it necessary to seek a less physical line of work; and

WHEREAS the camp has grown in facilities and outreach during these years with Jerry acting
as the general contractor, as buildings were constructed, and joined in the actual construction;
and

WHEREAS at the same time Jerry kept up the responsibility of daily camp maintenance; and

WHEREAS Cathie worked in upgrading the grounds, maintaining the bookstore, and supporting
Jerry in whatever way she could in this service for the Lord; and

WHEREAS Jerry and Cathie treated the challenges as an opportunity to serve the Lord and
minister to God’s people as they attended to the many details of the camp;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we, the members and delegates of the Ohio Bible
Fellowship meeting in our Fall Conference, October 14–15, 2011 in Morrow Bible Church,
Centerburg, Ohio, express our heartfelt gratitude to the Edingers for their dedication to our
camping ministry; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we pray for the Edingers as they move into a new phase of
their lives, seeking to continue serving their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Couples' Retreat 2011

2011-10-10T23:46:00.000-04:00

Thirty-four couples - married between 2 months and 49 years - enjoyed a beautiful weekend at Peniel Bible Camp Friday-Saturday, October 7-8. Delicious meals, terrific weather, challenging messages, time spent together, activities and rest -- all made for a great retreat!

Autumn at Peniel Bible Camp

Game time after supper

After meal announcements

Friday night chapel


Chapel messages

Making Kettle Corn for the couples

Kettle Corn Friday night

Saturday activities:

Saturday morning devotions

Saturday morning

Saturday morning time together

Zipline

Zipline on a fall afternoon

Enjoying a relaxing afternoon

Couples enjoying time together

Men's Retreat 2011

2011-09-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

Sixty-five men gathered at Peniel Bible Camp for the annual OBF Men's Retreat September 23-24. Although the weekend began with overcast skies, the clouds moved out on Saturday and the men enjoyed a sunny afternoon. The theme for this year's retreat was "Men of Prayer." The Lord used the messages in the chapel, the devotion guide, times of corporate prayer, and the fellowship with other believers to encourage the men during this short time at Peniel.

Time for fellowship

Delicious food

Singing in the chapel

Preaching the Word

Disc Golf

Target practice

Trying to catch "the big one"

Zipline

Throwing horseshoes

VanderSchel Update: September 2011

2011-09-22T11:33:00.003-04:00

(For a printable version, click here)

The VanderSchels / Ohio Bible Mission / September 2011

What We've Been Up To Lately:

Cooler weather, leaves changing colors, and the start of school all signify that fall has come to Camp Peniel. What a beautiful place to be in the fall! We are so thankful to be a part of it.

We finished up the regular summer program in August and transitioned right into week-long school camps. Izaac provided program support and spoke in several chapel services, while Kim and the kids helped out in the kitchen, snack shop, and craft cabin. We enjoyed seeing many of our summer "camp kids" participate in various activities with their school groups.

The beginning of September brought on a big change for us-- home school! After teaching in and being part of a traditional classroom for so many years, it's been a big adjustment for all of us. The kids are doing really well, and Kim appreciates the flexibility of our school schedule. When we have groups here at the camp, we make some adjustments to our weekly schedule and have school in the evenings or on the weekends so Kim and the kids can be involved in the camp activities as much as possible. As of right now, we've set up our "classroom" in the living room and at the kitchen table of the A-frame. We're anxious to get into our new school room downstairs within the next two weeks!

Izaac has been blessed with an exciting opportunity to serve as Assistant Director of the Buckeye Christian School Association (BCSA). He and Pastor Keith Hamblen (Calvary-Lima), have been working together to keep on top of state legislation that could potentially have future effects on our Christian schools here in Ohio. Izaac's new position will also help Camp Peniel partner with the BCSA in future ministry-- teen leadership retreats, school camps, sporting events, etc.

We're very grateful for a busy presentation schedule this fall. The Lord has opened up some wonderful opportunities for us to share the ministry of Peniel Bible Camp in the coming months. We've been blessed with nearly 70% of our financial support and are so thankful for the "great and mighty things" that God is doing for our family and for this camp.

What's Going On at the Camp:

Jim and Jenna Wright, missionaries to Cameroon, stayed for a couple days here at camp as they passed through the area while on furlough. Camp Peniel is a great place for our missionaries to rest and regroup while in the midst of their busy travels.

Pastor Kent and Jim (Grace Church of Mentor) spent two days putting many hours of work into our A-frame basement. We are so thankful for their ministry to us in that way. They trimmed out the bedrooms, schoolroom, and hallway, and hung closet doors. Thank you so much for your labor of love!

Dan Corey has been faithfully working here at the camp 2-3 days a week. Most of his time is spent working in our basement, although he's had quite an impact on many other areas of the camp. He will be serving as the Interim Facility Manager, and we're very grateful for his willing spirit and mechanical expertise.

Fall Retreats are happening right now here at camp. We've just enjoyed having over 100 ladies for Women's Retreat this past weekend. What a great time of fun and fellowship! Brenda Riley, who grew up at Westerville Bible Church and now serves the Lord in Florida with her husband, was our speaker. She encouraged our hearts greatly from God's Word. Men's and Couple's Retreats are coming up next!

We've recently had the opportunity to update and decorate the lobby of Ashbrook Hall. Last year's Women's Retreat offering was set aside for that project. We thank the Lord for your generous giving to the camp in order to make these improvements possible.

Camp Needs:

Funding is still needed for reimbursement of printing costs of the summer staff t-shirts. If you are able to help meet this need, a special offering or gift would be greatly appreciated.
We are in the process of replacing some of the outdated furniture in the lakefront and A-frame cabins. If you've recently purchased some new furniture for your home and have couches, chairs, end tables, dressers, lamps, desks, etc. that are still in good condition, please consider donating them to the camp. Contact us at pdirector@obf.net or through Facebook.

Kids' Column:

Well, I've realized these past few weeks that school is school, whether it's with your friends in a building or at home with mom, your sister, and brother.

At least recess is much more fun here at camp! Dad even set up the volleyball net in Ashbrook Hall so we could practice. We've had lots of fun looking for buckeyes around the camp too. So far we've found over 200!

Our cat, Ellie, likes it here at camp. She sits in the window and watches the birds.
Love, Brenna

Our Prayer Requests:

continued financial and prayer support of local churches
sale of our home in Washington Court House
completion of the A-frame basement

Presentation Schedule:

October 2 - Cambridge Bible Church, Cambridge

October 9 - Wayside Chapel, Bucyrus

October 10 - Wayside Christian School, Bucyrus

October 23 - Calvary Baptist Church, Willard

October 30 - Falls Berean Bible Church, Cuyahoga Falls

November 6 - Faith Bible Church, Bellevue

-------------------------------

Serving the Lord and Strengthening the Church by:

enhancing the current camping program

establishing new opportunities

encouraging continued involvement

Edinger Reception: Change of Date

2011-09-21T15:03:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends of Jerry and Cathie Edinger:

An Ohio Bible Mission letter previously went out onSeptember 15 stating that a Friday, October 14 reception would be held atPeniel Bible Camp in honor of the Edingers in conjunction with the the OctoberOhio Bible Fellowship Conference. Thetime for this reception has been changed. The new time is:

Reception for the Edingers

Peniel Bible Camp, Ashbrook Hall

Saturday, October 15, 12:30 p.m.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

Donald Gallion

Chairman, Ohio Bible Mission

Phone: 419-935-0595 or 567-224-5183

dnnlgallion@christian.net

Peniel Bible Camp Through the Year

2011-09-19T21:45:00.001-04:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Women's Retreat 2011

2011-09-19T11:44:00.000-04:00

One hundred seven ladies gathered at Peniel Bible Camp for the 38th annual Women's Retreat on a perfect early fall weekend - September 16-17. The Lord used the messages in the chapel, the workshops, and the fellowship with other believers to encourage the ladies during this short time at Peniel. Thank you to all who had a hand in making this one of the best retreats ever!

checking in and signing up for workshops

Delicious meals served by Dan's crew

Speaker with a smile!

Singing in the chapel

Crafts

Workshop in the chapel

Workshop in the Rec' Hall

Tea time during a workshop

Group of hikers

Zipline fun

Plenty of time for fellowship

A little competition

Outdoor games

Snacks in the Snackshop

Shopping in the bookstore

Thank you, Jerry and Cathie

2011-09-15T20:28:00.000-04:00

The Ohio Bible Mission board invites you to attend a special reception for the Edingers at Peniel Bible Camp on Friday, October 14, 2011. A special love offering will be presented to the Edingers at this time. For more information, please read the letter from the Ohio Bible Mission board here or see the text of the letter below.

-----------------------------

Dear Friends of Jerry and Cathie Edinger,

The Board of the Ohio Bible Mission wishes to publically express our appreciation for the service of Jerry and Cathie Edinger during Jerry’s employment at Peniel Bible Camp. We realize that the camp has grown in facilities and outreach during these years. Jerry acted as the general contractor as buildings were constructed and joined in the actual construction. At the same time he kept up the responsibility of daily camp maintenance. Cathie worked in upgrading the grounds, managing the bookstore, and supporting Jerry in whatever way she could in their service for the Lord. Jerry and Cathie treated these challenges as an opportunity to serve the Lord and minister to God’s people as they attended to the many details of the camp. Of course, the Lord keeps detailed records of all service to Him and will reward those who do service for Him.

Please continue to pray for the Edingers as Jerry takes his new job in Akron. Please remember to pray for us as we seek a Facility Manager for the camp. If you have suggestions for someone who might fill this important position, please send their name and contact information to mission@obf.net.

You are invited to a special reception for the Edingers at Peniel Bible Camp in Ashbrook Hall, Friday, October 14, 2011 during the evening meal hour of the OBF Conference hosted by Morrow Bible Church. Word has already gone out of a special love offering for the Edingers. If you would like to participate in this offering, please send your gifts to the OBM Treasurer, designated for the Edinger love offering. We plan to present this offering to the Edingers during the reception, so please send it by October 8, 2011.

With Thankful Hearts,
The Board of the Ohio Bible Mission

Things are changing...

2011-08-26T20:25:00.000-04:00

Things are changing at camp!

Izaac VanderSchel is now onsite as full-time Program Director. Pray for him as he continues to raise the remainder of his support.

Dan Corey has been hired as Part-time Interim Facility Manager, while the search continues for a long-term replacement for the Edingers.

If you have ideas on possible long-term candidates for the Facility Manager position, please contact an Ohio Bible Mission board member or send your thoughts to mission@obf.net.

Ohio Bible Mission: Important Announcement

2011-08-20T14:31:00.000-04:00

Dear Members and Friends of the Ohio Bible Mission:

Please read the attached letters from Jerry Edinger and me representing the Ohio Bible Mission board. Please be in prayer for all of us as we all seek the Lord's will.

In the Lord's Service,

Donald Gallion

Chairman, OBM Board

-----------------------------

Links to the 2 letters are here. Text is below.

-----------------------------

Members and friends of the Ohio Bible Fellowship,

We are sorry to announce that Mr. Jerry Edinger has submitted his resignation as Superintendent of Peniel Bible Camp, effective October 8, 2011. [Please see Jerry’s letter below.]

Jerry and Cathie have served at Peniel since 1996. As superintendent he was instrumental in building A-frame cabins, enhancing recreational areas (such as the rifle range, sand volleyball, and multi-purpose courts), and overseeing the overall maintenance and rental of the 360-acre campgrounds. Cathie was faithful in managing the bookstore, beautifying the grounds, and supporting Jerry in many behind-the-scenes ways. Their work and spirit in serving the Lord in all these and bother areas will be greatly missed.

The Edingers will be relocating to the Akron/Canton area where Jerry has accepted a position as a Maintenance Supervisor. Please join us in thanking them for their years of service and in praying for them as they make this significant transition in their lives. If you would like to participate in a special love offering for the Edingers, please send your gifts to the OBM Treasurer, designated for the Edinger
love offering.

The Ohio Bible Mission will be seeking a replacement for Jerry in the near future. This person will serve alongside our new Program Director, Izaac VanderSchel. If you have suggestions for someone who might fill this important position, please send their name and contact information to mission@obf.net. We covet your prayers as we seek the Lord’s person for this job and for guidance during the transition process.
And again, please remember to pray for the Edingers as they enter a new phase of the Lord’s will for their lives.

For His Glory,
Donald Gallion
President
Ohio Bible Mission
---------------
August 16, 2011

Dear Pastors, friends, and supporting churches,

During the past several years, it has become increasingly evident that because of physical restrictions (due to my back injury), I can no longer perform all of the duties for which I was hired in 1996. Even though the Ohio Bible Mission (OBM) Board has graciously allowed me to continue in a reduced capacity, I don’t believe that I would be a good steward of the ministry to which the Lord called me if I continued as Superintendent. In an exhortation to Archippus in Colossians 4:17, the apostle Paul writes: “And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.” I am also concerned that if I continue to disregard the long term effects of the extreme physical labor which the position requires, I may do permanent, irreversible damage to my back. Therefore, I have reluctantly submitted my resignation to the OBM Board, effective October 8, 2011. In his bountiful grace, the Lord has provided suitable (less physically demanding) employment for me.

Cathie and I are very grateful and thankful for being allowed the opportunity to serve at Peniel Bible Camp for the last 15 years. We have been greatly blessed because of your part in our ministry. We have deeply appreciated your prayers and your financial support. Please pray for the OBM Board as they work through this change and seek the Lord’s will in filling the need at camp. Please pray that the Lord will continue to direct Cathie and me as we enter yet another new phase in our life. Please call (419-560-1150) or e-mail me (edingerj32@gmail.com) if you have any questions.

In Him,
Jerry & Cathie Edinger

August Family Camp

2011-08-12T21:46:00.000-04:00

Twenty-five campers enjoyed a restful week of vacation at Family Camp August 8-13. Many guests were in for evening services throughout the week.

Family Campers - August Family Camp 2011

Campers out on the lake during the afternoons

Chapel services morning and evenings

Families provided special music


Messages on stewardship challenged campers in different areas of their lives

A Children's Class was held each morning during the chapel hour.

Coloring a Bible picture after the Bible story during the morning Children's Class

Wow! Look what Analei caught!

The Craft Cabin was busy in the afternoon!

Establishing who's best at carpet ball...

Children's picnic

Family Camp children

Mrs. Peeler's French Fries

2011-08-10T16:53:00.000-04:00

Did you enjoy those French Fries we had at camp this summer? Umm, umm, they were good!

In 2009 we replaced our small table-top deep fryer with a larger one, enabling our kitchen crew to fry larger batches of food. (Previously they had to start frying fries 2 hours before a meal! Imagine that!) Last fall we added a French Fry Cutter to our kitchen tools. Mrs. Peeler then worked on perfecting the process so we could enjoy fresh fries this summer. I'd say she did well, wouldn't you?

It all starts with a box of large baking potatoes. Mrs. Peeler used between 25-75# of potatoes each time she served fries, depending upon the size of the camp.

Two cooks would team up to cut the potatoes after breakfast - one putting the potatoes in the cutter and the other pulling the lever down.

And there you have it - fresh cut French Fries! Now to get them cooked...

The fries were twice-fried. This prevented them from clumping. They were partially cooked, refrigerated, and then deep-fried again just before serving.

Miss Hannah, serving on kitchen staff 6 weeks this summer, was our"chief French fryer!"

Thank you, Mrs. Peeler, for this addition to the camp menu this summer!

Teen 2 Campers/Staff 2011

2011-08-06T22:36:00.000-04:00

Teen 2 Campers - August 1-6, 2011

Happy Trails - Cabin 1

Cow Belles - Cabin 2

Pony Tales - Cabin 3

Jolly Ranchers - Cabin 4

Bull Horns - Cabin 5

Beef Jerkys - Cabin 6

Gum Slingers - Cabin 7

Dewed Ranch - Cabin 8

The Bucking Bronco Rides Again

2011-08-06T10:33:00.000-04:00

After years of not being used, the Bucking Bronco needed a little repair. New posts were erected, ropes were replaced, and the Bucking Bronco was up and running again. Teen 2 Campers enjoyed trying not to be bucked on Friday afternoon.

Old poles were removed and holes were made.


Izaac removes dirt from one hole while the second hole is being drilled.

Drilling the holes

Leveling and tamping down

Ready to go...

A few last "tweaks"

Ride 'em, Cowboy!

Campers enjoyed the thrill and challenge of riding Peniel's Bucking Bronco.

Such determination to stay on!

Teen 2 Camp 2011 Activities

2011-08-04T21:13:00.001-04:00

Meals and activities in Ashbrook hall

Games out on the field

Morning and Evening Chapel with Evangelist Mike Manor

Activities around the Rec' Hall

Zip line fun

Quiz Time

Enjoying a quick game of Tetherball

Store time (ice cream cones, floats, candy, and Pepsi)

Enjoying a treat on a warm evening

Old time photos

Games

Wranglers' Wagon

Cowpokes' (winning) Wagon

Disc Golf Tournament

Hiding God's Word in hearts

Time for fishing

Afternoon activities

Enjoying the lake

Slip 'n Slide

Teen 1 Camp 2011

2011-08-02T22:50:00.000-04:00

Horseback riding?

Flag Raising

Personal Bible study

Cooling off on a warm summer afternoon

Zipping across the lake

Afternoon Bible time

a sudsy splash

Portraits on the Peniel Prairie (Teen 1 Camp 2011)

2011-07-28T16:48:00.001-04:00

During Teen Camps this year, we are taking some old-time photos. Costumes are available and photos are taken and printed in sepia tones. This afternoon this sister and brother had their picture taken.

Waiting their turn

Now to find just the right costumes...

Found a dress...

... add an apron...

...and she's all set.

Okay. Let's get in place.

A little adjusting

Just about ready now

Click! Click!

They opted for a smiling picture.

Reflipping the Aqua Jump

2011-07-26T11:56:00.000-04:00

After a windstorm flipped the Aqua Jump last weekend, a crew of guys went out early Monday morning re-flip it to be ready for the campers' arrival later in the day. Not an easy task - but a great accomplishment when completed!

Junior 2 Camp pictures

2011-07-23T13:50:00.000-04:00

Enjoyed a great week of camp with 100 Junior 2 Campers who have recently completed grades 5 and 6.

The campers' Bible memory work for this week was to memorize Psalm 119:1-50, reviewing the prior verse each time a new verse was recited. Twenty-eight campers memorized all the verses; some went back and said them in groups of 8 verses for additional points. The following campers are to be commended for their diligence in learning God's Word:

Stephen Arp
Crewe Burke
Calvin Catania
Jeremy Craddock
Elizabeth Garren
Michael Gibson
Isaiah Gifford
Daniel Green
Christel Hendricks
Sam Hixson
Madeline Hurst
Kyle Keary
Jonathan Layton
Michael Merritt
James Meyer
Max Nye
Elizabeth O'Neill
Joshua Peeler
Madison Smith
Renee Stenoien
Ally Stepnick
Giavanna Trivisonno
Paxton Trusty
Ashlyn VanderSchel
Brenna VanderSchel
Titus West
John Wilson
Lizzie Zink

Junior 2 Campers / Staff - July 18-23, 2011

Happy Trails / Cowpokes from Bunkhouse 1

Cow Belles - Wranglers from Bunkhouse 2

Pony Tales - Cowpokes from Bunkhouse 3

Jolly Ranchers - Wranglers from Bunkhouse 4

Bull Horns - Cowpokes from Bunkhouse 5

Beef Jerkys - Wranglers from Bunkhouse 6

Gum Slingers - Cowpokes from Bunkhouse 7

Dewed Ranch - Wranglers from Bunkhouse 8

The "Cookies" in the hot kitchen

The Sheriff and the Dude

Junior 2 Camp - July 18-23, 2011

2011-07-22T23:03:00.000-04:00

Campers enjoyed the breeze on a hot summer day.

Welcome to our cabin!

Learning verses

Playing with friends

Learning to throw a disc

Look what he caught in Fishing Class!

Swimming Skills Class

Crafts

Archery Skills Class

Shooting for a bulls eye

Keeping cool and having fun

Slip and Slide - it's all about form!

and then add a little soap...

The lake was a popular place during this hot week of camp!

Playing a game with wet sponges

Keeping hydrated

Another way to keep cool!

Friends enjoying an evening snack

Enjoying the Zip line

Singing in the Chapel

Learning about God

Junior 1 Camp - Thursday through Saturday

2011-07-16T21:40:00.000-04:00

Filling free time before lunch with a pick-up game of soccer

Happy Trails - Cabin 1

Cow Belles - Cabin 2

Pony Tales - Cabin 3

Jolly Ranchers - Cabin 4

Bull Horns - Cabin 5

Beef Jerkys - Cabin 6

Gum Slingers - Cabin 7

Dewed Ranch - Cabin 8

Team of Cookies

Sunset on Thursday

VanderSchels July 2011 Newsletter

2011-07-15T19:31:00.000-04:00

OHIO BIBLE MISSION / July 2011

What we've been up to lately:

After 13 years of teaching at Fayette Christian School in Washington Court House, it was bittersweet to pack up our classrooms in June. Our house is currently on the market, and we're praying for a quick sale. We've moved our regular summer load to camp as we have for the past 10 summers and are now right in the middle of a very busy camping season.

Ashlyn, Brenna, and Carson have jumped right into camp life and are enjoying the busy schedule. As the girls have grown older, they've enjoyed picking up some new responsibilities in the bookstore and dining hall. Carson is a great help to Izaac, whether he's holding one end of the tape measure or helping clean up after activities. Kim is teaching the elementary-age campers during morning chapels for family camp and is busy organizing craft sessions in the afternoons. Izaac will assume the role of "Sheriff" this summer for Tumbleweed Stampede. He's been busily planning activities and theme decorations in preparation for the junior and teen campers' arrival.

Our A-frame basement renovation is well underway. All the rooms have been dry- walled; the girls' bedrooms have been primed and painted; and the ceilings are finished. Once summer camps are over, we'll have time to be able to get back to work on that space. We're so thankful for the family and friends who have diligently helped with that project. Once the basement is finished, we'll move the next load from Washington Court House -- the girls' bedrooms and the office/schoolroom.

Although we're trying to be patient, we're very excited to see how the Lord is going to use us this fall as we settle into permanent residency here at camp. The kids can't wait to be at camp in the snow, but Kim reminds them to enjoy the hot summer days as long as they can!

View from the schoolroom into the girls' bedrooms

bottom of the stairs - pantry and doorway into schoolroom

At the end of the summer, we'll make the "big move" and bring all the rest of our things from WCH. Any large pieces of furniture that won't fit into the A-frame and other things we won't immediately need will go into a storage unit for the time being. We're looking forward to making this cabin our home with our own furniture and décor.

Due to the whirlwind end of our school year, our camp presentation schedule slowed down a bit this past spring. We'll be visiting a couple of churches throughout the summer and then resuming a more aggressive presentation schedule in the fall. God has blessed us with a little over 60% of our support level, and we're truly thankful! To schedule a presentation or contact us regarding our full-time camp ministry, please feel free to do so at pdirector@obf.net. We'd love to hear from you! We're so grateful for the continued giving and prayers! They are such an encouragement to us!

What's going on at the camp:

The Lord has blessed us with beautiful weather these first couple weeks of camp. Our first week was a busy one with Pastor's Conference, Training Camp, and a Mother/Daughter Retreat. We're currently enjoying a relaxing week of Family Camp while gearing up for youth camps which are just around the corner.

The camp is being transformed into the for our summer program. We're sportin' our best western duds for the arrival of passels of cowpokes and wranglers this summer. Our prayer is that many hearts and lives will be touched and changed through the daily teaching of God's Word.

A second carpetball table is ready for action outside the rec hall, just in time for youth camps. We're so thankful to Mike Adams (Fayette Bible) for building it and to Kenny Arnold (Fayette Bible) for transporting it to camp this past week.

Installation of new carpetball table

Camp Needs:

- Funding is needed for the printing of staff t-shirts this summer. If you are able to help meet this need, a special offering or donation would be greatly appreciated.

- Staff is still needed for several of our youth camp weeks. Please contact us if you would be willing to help serve.

Our Prayer Requests:

- continued financial and prayer support of local churches

- sale of our home in Washington Court House

- completion of the A-frame basement

- purchase of a second vehicle

- effective ministry to campers and staff

Kids' Column:

I'm having lots of fun at camp! My favorite thing is helping in the kitchen with Mrs. Peeler. This week, I got to wait on tables at the adult banquet for family camp. I even got a tip! The best part was that we got to eat grilled steak afterwards. I can't wait for my new bedroom to be finished. It's aqua and lime green! Brenna and I have never had our own rooms before, so it will be really fun! I also have been helping my mom in the craft cabin. She lets me help her do sample crafts for her display wall. In just 2 weeks, I get to be a camper again! Love, Ashlyn

Presentation Schedule:

Sept. 11- First Baptist Church (Berlin)

Oct. 2- Cambridge Bible Church

Oct. 9- Wayside Chapel

Oct. 10- Wayside Christian School

Oct. 30- Falls Berean Bible Church

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Serving the Lord and Strengthening the church by:

-enhancing the current camping program

-establishing new opportunities

-encouraging continued involvement

Carson stenciled a new camp T-shirt

Ash and Bren with friends at Family Camp

Junior 1 Camp - Monday-Wednesday

2011-07-14T22:16:00.000-04:00

Counseling staff preparing for the arrival of campers

Mr. V. teaching the motions to the song for Tumbleweed Stampede 2011

Evening games out on the soccer field

Junior 1 Campers in morning chapel

Junior 1 Quiz Time

Youth Camps have begun!

2011-07-13T23:33:00.000-04:00

It was quiet and uneventful around Peniel Bible Camp Sunday afternoon...

and then the first group of youth campers arrived on Monday afternoon.

Now there's the noise of singing, cheering, splashing... Ahhh, that's what we like to hear around here.

Children playing, eating, running, praying...Yes, that's why we're here!