Spruce Lake Retreat
New horizons
New Horizons - A Capital Campaign for Opening Up the Future

When construction begins, we'll post new project photos here. In the meantime, take a look at the work that has already been done in Phases 1 and 2: Nature Center and the driveway and parking lots.

Architect's drawing of the new Hospitality Center
Hospitality Center - view from the lake

Our 2011 Open House, May 22, marked the historical launch of Spruce Lake's New Horizons Campaign (phase 3) for building our new Hospitality Center! We believe God has opened a door of opportunity, and are confident of God's hand in the decision to move forward to make this much needed building a reality. Our time line is visionary, yet demanding. Our financial times are tough, yet challenges can be energizing!

We have committed ourselves to moving through this open door, with construction of the new Hospitality Center intended for completion by May, 2013, our 50th anniversary year! Spruce Lake's board is enthusiastically giving their full support for this campaign. Excitement is in the air, and a wave of momentum has already brought in over $2 million pledged toward the $8 million needed to build and outfit the Hospitality Center, "down to the last pillow case and kitchen spoon," said board member Sandy Alderfer. Our highest aim is to be fully funded before ribbon-cutting, set for May 19, 2013.

Computer generation of the new Hospitality Center
Hospitality Center - view from front of Spruce Lodge


Spruce Lodge has been the changeless hub of Spruce Lake for the past 48 years! We love that old building like a favorite pair of worn shoes in which we feel comfortable and at home. It is also a kind of holy spot, for many who have entered through the door have been changed forever.

The familiarity, however, is wearing thin. We are still serving 250 people or more in a dining room designed for 140 at best. Guests must often shoulder their way through the lobby to the tight and tiny restrooms. In the guest rooms upstairs, persons can hear what their neighbors do or say in surrounding rooms. Simply put, Spruce Lodge can no longer meet our ministry needs. Holding tightly to Spruce Lodge will keep the door to our future closed. It is time to open a new door to the future for ministry at Spruce Lake!

Click each image below to see a larger version

The new Hospitality Center will contain or involve these elements:

  • Spacious dining room with flexible seating arrangements for 300, and kitchen capacity for serving 300 people.
  • 48 new guest rooms, each with one queen and two single beds. Twelve of the rooms will be designed specifically for handicapped accessibility..
  • Flexible meeting areas for 135-250 people, wide hallways and handicapped-accessible restrooms.
  • Energy and cost-efficient design.

  • Outdoor dining balcony, attractive landscaping and an inspiring view.

  • Air-conditioning and elevators serving the three floors.
  • Our newest drawings by Greenfield Architects, Ltd. show a building designed to meet our ministry needs while maintaining a responsible budget and meshing fluently with our natural environment.Work by High Construction Company will start in the spring of 2012, as soon as the weather and cash flow enable us to begin.

    "Watch God Work!" A mysterious traveler who came to the door handed a plaque with these words to founding Wilderness Camp director Al Detweiler. Realizing how God has indeed been at work over the years of this ministry is enough to send shivers of awe up and down your spine!

    As we open the door and release this ministry to the next generation, we again anticipate all that God will do as we seek to point people toward Christ!

    Yes, the $8 million needed is a big goal ... but you know what? We serve a big God!
    The current economic times are difficult for many, but God may be calling for even greater generosity for those things which are most important. We offer the principle found in Deuteronomy 16:17 as you consider how you can help: "Each one shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which he has given you."

    Will you join us? Consider how Spruce Lake has made a positive difference in your life, and how you will be involved as move toward the new Hospitality Center becoming reality! We'd love to talk with you!

    Click here to contact us -- or call 800-822-7505 and ask for Executive Director Mark Swartley or Dave Trout, Director of Advancement.
 
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