Celebrating Another Incredible Camp Season at Loch Leven

by Hayley Smart, Interim Camp Youth and Young Adults Program Coordinator

Summer camp at Loch Leven is a sacred and unique place for our children and youth, and mid-July marked the end of a truly wonderful 2025 camp season. Each year around this time, looking back at the summer, after all the final numbers and evaluations and debriefs, we realize anew that there is so much about the camp experience that cannot be quantified--and this year was no different. 

First to enumerate what can be quantified, though: this summer the program continued on the upward trajectory it has tracked since we returned to camp in person post-lockdown. Enrollment grew for almost all age groups, and in three weeks of camp we were ultimately blessed to serve a total of 136 campers representing 27 congregations across the Pacific Southwest and Arizona Regions. Our inter-regional partnership has resulted in Arizona Disciples constituting a quarter of adult volunteers and nearly half of youth registrants, fostering young friendships and long-term ties between our regions.

Speaking of adults, the camp programming at Loch Leven is planned and implemented entirely by volunteers. We are grateful for the incredible generosity of the 48 adults--directors, counselors, clergy, musicians, and medical staff--who gave of their time this summer to create a safe and special environment for our campers. Two of our volunteers even received training as Level 2 archery instructors in order to offer our older campers the opportunity to learn a very traditional summer camp skill! We are always looking for more volunteers, so if you feel called to participate or just want to learn more, we encourage you to let us know you're interested here.

We are also proud to report that several significant facilities projects have been completed or are underway at Loch Leven. Inspiration Point, which for decades has been many campers' favorite place at camp, has been restored with durable permanent benches and a new cross. An old shed is being converted into a cold room, which will provide both relief from rising summer temperatures and a much-needed additional indoor meeting space. There are many more projects on the horizon intended to keep camp safe, comfortable, and fun for the next generation of campers. We invite you to take the time to check out some of these improvements when you next visit Loch Leven. If you feel inspired by our progress, please consider making a contribution to continue the work; it is only possible through the generosity of people like you investing in the future of outdoor ministry.

As for what cannot be measured: fellowship and faith formation remained at the core of the camp experience. Through daily devotionals, peer-led worship, team-building activities, and simply spending time together in nature, campers engaged deeply with their spirituality and faith community. Loch Leven is a retreat from our hyper-connected lives; it was surprising to hear how many youth enjoyed leaving the internet behind for an entire week to be wholly present with their communities. In this way, they forged relationships with peers from a variety of backgrounds and developed support networks they can rely on "down the mountain." 

The impact of our camp program over the years is evident across the many stories of growth and transformation (including my own!) that past participants have shared. You can be a part of ensuring that Loch Leven continues to be a sacred place, and summer camp a formative experience, for children and youth in the years to come. As we look to 2026, please consider whether camp is a ministry you feel called to support--whether it be your time, talent, or treasure, we welcome you with gratitude and an unrelenting hope for the future.

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AuthorAlisa Mittelstaedt
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Time Well Invested: Reflections from 2025 General Assembly 

by Rev. Cheri Metier 

Time is a curious concept. The calendar informs me that it has been over two months since the 2025 General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) came to a close in Memphis, TN, however my spirit continues to feel refreshed, my heart is full, and my imagination continues to be fed by the worship and learning I received during those brief five days. Yet, simultaneously, it feels like much too long ago that I was blessed to exchange hundreds of smiles and hugs from my Disciples family and be strengthened by the meaningful ministry that is happening throughout the United States and Canada through the passion and spirit of these faithful servants.  

I extended my GA experience by participating in the pre-assembly home build event sponsored by Week of Compassion on Friday prior to the Opening of the GA. I must boast that PSWR was well represented during this additional, all-day labor of love. Together we built over 50 wall panels that have since been delivered to Habitat for Humanity Pennyrile Region in Hopkins County, Kentucky, ready for the next phase of rebuilding and recovery. The panels will become a home for a single mother and her young son, who were displaced by tornadoes in December 2021. I was but 1 of 45 volunteers gathered at The BLVD (Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church) to frame a house for tornado survivors in western Kentucky. Week of Compassion volunteers worked with the capable folks of Help Build Hope. You can watch a time-lapsed video of the entire day by visiting: https://vimeo.com/1103830319?share=copy . I’m the one in denim shorts and a red, sleeveless shirt. Can you find me and other PSWR volunteers? 

The words, music, and wisdom shared during the Worship Services buoyed my soul. Rev. Dr. Bernice King charged us to “Activate the Power” as the Church responds to injustice. Her powerful message of exhortation and inspiration provided me with personal and pastoral hope for our Church and our nation. Each and every preacher, musician, and worship leader brought evocative messages of resilient hope and faith. 

I was inspired to learn about the new initiative of the Disciples Christian Unity and Interfaith Ministry from Rev. Paul S. Tché, that promotes ecumenical and interfaith collaboration by congregations being able to become a Polar Star Congregation (a guide is available here). As the Chair of PSWR’s Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee (EIRC), I am excited to share this opportunity with PSWR congregations. I had the privilege of speaking personally with Rev. Tché about this and he agreed to meet with EIRC! 

There is so much more to share about my time and experiences of attending the 2025 General Assembly and I am deeply grateful for the $500 scholarship granted by PSWR’s Leadership Development Committee that made participating in this possible. Although you’ll need to wait three years, please plan now to attend the 2028 General Assembly. I promise, it is time well invested! 

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REFLECTIONS FROM GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2025

Joshua Nahm, Seminarian at Claremont School of Theology

My experience at the 2025 General Assembly in Memphis, Tennessee, was quite insightful. As someone entirely new to the Disciples of Christ, having only learned of them a few months prior, I approached the assembly with a healthy dose of skepticism, particularly regarding religious institutions. As a new seminarian at Claremont School of Theology, I saw this as a valuable opportunity to observe the Disciples of Christ in action.

This was my first time at any kind of assembly of this scale, and I wasn’t sure of what to expect from my time, other than barbecue. It was very interesting to see how business was conducted, with my favorite part being the open mic at the end of a session. I loved how silly some people were and how earnest others were in their prayer requests and concerns. The highlight of the General Assembly, that nearly put all my skepticism to the wayside, was the worship at which Reverend Dr. Bernice King spoke. Her message was a powerful call to the body of Christ, and I found it deeply moving.

Though there were ideas that were difficult to understand and speakers that weren’t the most palatable to me, I was able to see past the minutia of disagreements and behold the heart of the Disciples of Christ. I understood what people meant by everyone having a seat at the table, a radical acceptance of all.



Cristina Flores, Church of the Foothills

Attending the General Assembly was a blessing, and I am deeply grateful for the generous support I received through the PSWR scholarship. Without that financial support, this life-changing experience would not have been possible. It was a blessing that I was able to share with my two teenagers. Together we were able to make the trip and meet with others that share the passion of making a better world for all.

From the moment I arrived, I felt surrounded by a vibrant, welcoming, and Spirit-filled community. One of the most powerful moments for me was hearing Dr. Rev. Bernice King speak. Her words were not only inspiring but also a call to action—to live out justice, peace, and love in bold and faithful ways. Being able to take a picture and be so close to her gave me a moment of peace despite the hardship we are going through. Her words gave me hope that there is so much work to be done to create a world that is safe for all. Worship each night gave me a purpose and deepening my connection to God and to the wider church.

Throughout the week, I attended a variety of workshops that opened my eyes to the many ways our church is engaged in meaningful ministry. A particularly moving experience was participating in a service project where we wrote cards for children receiving treatment at St. Jude’s Hospital. It reminded me of the power of small acts of kindness and the importance of compassion in our work.

Another meaningful aspect of the General Assembly was the opportunity to connect with others. I met new people from across the country and had the chance to network with clergy who offered me encouragement and support as I prepare to enter seminary.

The expo was also a highlight for me. I loved exploring the booths hosted by colleges, ministries, and organizations doing transformative work. It gave me new insight into the many resources available to clergy and its community.

This experience has left me inspired, uplifted, and more confident in my journey. I am so thankful to have had this opportunity and look forward to carrying everything I learned and felt into my next steps in ministry.

May there be continued opportunities for all!


Richard Flores, Church of the Foothills

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to travel to another state for the first time and attend my very first General Assembly. I met so many amazing people and got to experience the beauty of diverse cultures during worship. My highlight of General Assembly was to have the privilege of listening to inspiring keynote speakers including Rev. Dr. Bernice King. I was able to witness incredible Korean drumming performances by my friends from church and camp. I will never forget the opportunity to meet other youth and make lasting friendships.

Allison Flores, Church of the Foothills

It was an amazing experience where I learned so much, met people from all over the country, and got to enjoy powerful worship sessions in the evenings with inspiring keynote speakers. I appreciate the opportunity to be awarded a scholarship to attend and be provided with a meaningful experience.

I’d like to share a bit about what I learned. I was part of the youth program, where we had workshops on how to advocate for important issues in our communities and how we, as young people, can share the Gospel even at our age. One of the speakers shared that it all starts with how you present yourself to others—through kindness, being approachable, and having honest conversations. Sharing your faith doesn't have to be overwhelming; it’s about taking one step at a time, whether that’s growing your own relationship with God or helping someone feel welcomed into the church. He even gave us simple ways to start those conversations and encouraged us to be bold in living out our faith. Being inspired by the assembly I’m really excited to start working on project at church. I brought back a great resources which I placed in a binder. It is filled with information from the colleges that had booths at the exhibit center for the youth that could not make it out to General Assembly. Thank you again for the support!

Lucia Napolez, University Christian Church, San Diego

The General Assembly was an enriching experience from start to finish. I reconnected with many familiar faces associated with UCC San Diego and PSWR’s Loch Leven Camp, which made the event feel welcoming. Staying close to the convention center made my daily commute a breeze, allowing me to immerse myself in the diverse workshops and presentations fully. These sessions created a space for meaningful learning and spiritual growth. Some personal highlights included participating in the bilingual (English and Spanish) Obra Hispana morning worship service, where small group discussions fostered connections with others, and another highlight was the intergenerational workshop that brought together different generations to the table for discussions.

The exhibitor hall introduced me to new partnerships and organizations associated with the Disciples of Christ. I also had three truly memorable moments: a visit to the Civil Rights Museum in a rainstorm—a humbling experience that grounded my faith in social justice—and a chance meeting with Dr. Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (photographed below in the dark suit), during a young leaders gathering. This encounter introduced me to other emerging leaders and was a powerful reminder of the global nature of our work. The final memorable encounter was with Rev. Dr. Ben Bohren, who prayed with me on the last day of my trip, providing counsel and hope for the future.

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God's Power Revealed in Solidarity: "Unbreakable Hope" - by Rev. Dr. Miseon Choi

Shalom, may the peace of God be with you. 

Today, we live in a society increasingly polarized and filled with rising tensions. The recently intensified immigration raids, arrests, and deportation processes nationwide have brought unexpected despair and sorrow to countless families. Because of this, even young children experience the pain of sudden separation from their parents without understanding the reason. 

In this reality, what can we truly call “hope”? What voice should the faith community raise, and how can we stand together with our wounded neighbors? 

The structural threats and challenges to ethnic identity faced by immigrant communities and socially marginalized groups are not merely social or political issues; they are deeply connected to the dignity of every person created in the image of God. The Scriptures repeatedly remind us of God’s heart to love and welcome the stranger, saying, “You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:19). Christ himself stood with the oppressed and the marginalized. Therefore, the pain experienced by immigrants and excluded communities is also the pain of our church family. At the same time, it is an opportunity to embody the peace and justice of God’s kingdom in our daily lives. This is precisely the path of faith that the church must walk together, united in heart. 

Even amidst realities of oppression and domination, we witness those who peacefully gather in the streets, proclaiming freedom, equality, respect, and love, embodying true solidarity. This image reminds us of Christ, who confronted oppressive powers through nonviolence, calling us to remember the path of Christ. It is precisely in that place that we discover the light of “Unbreakable Hope.” 

The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians chapter 4, describes the life of a suffering minister as “a treasure in clay jar,” bearing witness to God’s paradoxical power revealed even amid pain: 

13 But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture – “I believed, and so I spoke” – we also believe, and therefore we also speak, 14 because we know that the one who raised Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and will present us with you in this presence.

God’s power does not lie in avoiding or eliminating suffering. Rather, astonishingly, life blossoms amid the brokenness and weakness encountered by those who follow the way of the cross. Paul experienced the grace of life being awakened within the community through his own suffering, and he confessed that this is the journey of faith to which God calls us all. However, this does not mean passively accepting or justifying suffering itself. On the contrary, it is through the lives of those who stand alongside one another in solidarity amid suffering that we gain the strength to endure together. When our lives become supports for one another, we regain the hope to look forward to new life. It is not about passively bearing suffering, but about experiencing God at work through those who walk together in love and action, and in that grace, embracing an “Unbreakable Hope.” 

Building on this faith, our PSWR is preparing a gathering under the theme “Unbreakable Hope.” Through dedicated time and worship, this gathering will offer a precious opportunity to reflect on Christ’s hope together with those who are facing various hardships. Moreover, it will be a chance to weep and laugh alongside one another, practicing true solidarity in everyday life. We will come together to share our life stories, join in tears and laughter, and firmly hold on to “Unbreakable Hope” through a life of active prayer. 

2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “Indeed, everything is for your sake, so that grace, when it has extended to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.”

Although we face various hardships, the power of Christ that brings forth new life is revealed in hearts united in solidarity, sharing laughter and tears, and in acts of practical love. It is precisely through these expressions that an unbreakable seed of hope takes root deep within our hearts. 

As the Regional Gathering Planning Team and I warmly invite you to join the upcoming Gathering, we also pray that together we may share hope, gently embrace one another’s wounds and joys, and find true restoration in Christ. 

Rev. Dr. Miseon Choi

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