That was the word this morning from Stan White, executive director of the Alpine Covenant Conference Center that was threatened by fires that devastated large areas of California over the past several days.
“We are so thankful to the Lord that Alpine was spared,” he continues. “The fire came within a mile of camp last Monday night (October 27). The ‘Santa Anas’ appeared to have prevented it from getting any closer. When we left a week ago Saturday night (after evacuating 200 people right after dinner), it still seemed like summer. Now we are returning to temperatures in the thirties! Staff started arriving yesterday to find a place that – hard to believe – shows no evidence of the fire coming so close. There are no ashes, no rancid smell of smoke or any smoke damage. The only damage appears to be from winds that broke a window and blew down some awnings. All staff homes were safe but one.”
Unfortunately, one Alpine staff couple lived in Cedar Glen and lost everything, White noted. “They were already down the mountain so they never had a chance to retrieve anything,” he added. “We have already secured temporary housing for them as they start all over. Your prayers for them would be cherished, especially since their first child is due the end of January.”
The conference center is hoping to be fully operational by the end of next week – road closures have now been lifted – with several retreats scheduled in the weeks ahead. “We moved our Men’s Conference from this coming weekend to November 21-23 – there is still room,” White observed.
“Preparations are continuing for our winter camps,” White continues. “We hope to see your son or daughter in just a few months – pray for snow!. Check with your church for registration information. Your prayers as we ramp back up would be appreciated – there is much to be done. We are really looking forward to cleaning out the camp refrigerator and freezer since power has been out for 10 days. That’s today’s project!
“Thank you for letting us be a part of your family by providing meaningful camp experiences for your kids throughout the year. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know it will take on a whole new meaning for us here at Alpine.”
Copyright © 2011 The Evangelical Covenant Church.
