Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were unable to gather together on the shores of beautiful Lake George for a week last July. It was only the second time in our history we had to cancel our plans. The first was during World War II. Yet, thanks to the ingenuity and hard work of the Planning Team, we were able to gather virtually for several events that helped to enliven our spirits, connect with friends, and exercise our minds and bodies.

 

On Sunday, we shared worship electronically with St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in New York City, led by Pastor Arden Strasser. Later in the week, he also offered morning devotions on Facebook live. Tom Henry taught two classes focused on the upcoming elections. Katie Bang hosted over 50 of us on a Zoom ice cream social, and Scott Rohrbach took children and youth on a Scavenger Hunt. We were serenaded by Robert Edwin’s stirring vocals on Thursday evening, before closing with Beautiful Savior and a prayer. 

 

None of this could have been possible without Amy Baumgartner’s work behind the scenes. We are excited to have added her and Scott Rohrbach to the Planning Team, as Activities Directors. Their energy, enthusiasm and creativity are contagious. Others who continue to support the work of the Gathering throughout the year are Executive Director/President – Chad Volkert, Dean – Marie Jerge, Registrar – Karen Hoffman, Katie Bang, Beth Smayda, Patti Garrison, Jim Bresnahan, Sue Hollar, and Laura Hill-Primiano.  

 

Thanks to the generosity of participants, we received gifts that covered the expenses we incurred. 

 

 

Almost everyone who was signed up for 2020 has rolled their registration over for 2021! We hope you will join us too!  Silver Bay in the Adirondacks provides a great getaway opportunity within New York State. Plans are underway that take into account all the necessary protocols for the safety and welfare of our participants. We pray that everyone stays safe through this year and we look forward to being able to meet in person again next year.