NEW HAMPSHIRE – This past weekend I had the opportunity spend some time at the Alton Bay Christian Retreat Center in Alton Bay, N.H. This year marks 162 years of continuous ministry for Alton Bay. The Second Advent Campmeeting held its first meeting on September 7, 1863, on land at Alton Bay overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. The first participants stayed in tents. The Alton Bay Campmeeting Association was incorporated in 1876. The campground continued to grow and prosper with summer camp meetings, conferences and retreats for young people. By 1900, approximately 10,000 worshipers attended each summer, and more than 250 tents covered the area. Wooden benches were added to a grove of trees to provide a natural amphitheater. Small houses replaced the tents as people waited for the “Second Advent.” These houses were sometimes only a foot or so apart, as they occupied approximately the land taken by a large tent.
As part of my role as executive director, I serve as a board member for Alton Bay and this past weekend was their annual meeting. It’s always great to see old friends like Carolyn Schaeffner, Gene and Sandy Peters and John and Cindy Harper and to meet new friends at the Bay. During the meeting, I had the special privilege of recognizing Rev. Willie Batson for 50 years of ministry. Only 10% or so of people who begin in ministry actually retire in ministry. So, to persevere in ministry for 50 years is quite an accomplishment. To mark this milestone, we like to present our pastors with a small medallion entitled “The Divine Servant.” The medallion features an image of Jesus washing the disciple’s feet, which offers a picture of what ministry is all about. It was great to be able to present this small token of appreciation to Willie for all his years of service.
We figure the 50 years of service based on a pastor’s ordination date, and we don’t have perfectly complete records tracking that information. So, if you know someone you think is eligible to receive 50-year medallion, please reach out and let us know. We are so thankful for our pastors who faithfully shepherd our churches and like to recognize their lives of steadfast service to Christ and his church, even if it is in this small way.
On Sunday, I had the privilege to worship with the congregation of Haverhill Advent Christian Church in Haverhill, Mass. It was my first time at the Haverhill church, and I am very thankful for their warmth and kind welcome.
