Midwestern singles enjoy weekend away from it all

By Jeannette Hoffart

HUBERTUS, Wis.Eleven singles from Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin spent Aug. 22-24 at Camp Minikani here. Highlights of the weekend included thought-provoking group discussions, fellowship and outdoor activities including simulated rock climbing, canoe races, hiking and beach volleyball.

Most in attendance agreed that the small group added to their enjoyment of the event, allowing them to do the activities together and making it easy for them to get to know each other.

The activities began Friday night with a Bible study led by Mike Hanisko on knowing God's will. Mr. Hanisko, who pastors congregations in Oshkosh and Milwaukee, joined the group Sabbath evening for a group discussion and came Sunday to participate in the outdoor activities.

Rapport built

The campers said they appreciated his insight and comments on topics including how to combat loneliness, contributing to a local congregation and building relationships that will lead to marriage.

By the time the singles said goodnight Friday, a rapport had been built within the group, whose ages spanned two decades.

Sabbath morning began with breakfast in the dining hall. Then most campers took a leisurely walk through part of the grounds, which include two small lakes and swampy and forested areas.

Most decided to attend services in Milwaukee that afternoon, so the rest of the morning was spent with people fellowshipping, meditating in the beautiful landscape, reading or dangling their feet in the warm water of Amy Belle Lake.

Sounds like Bible

After services in Milwaukee (about 45 minutes away), the group returned to camp for dinner and the evening's entertainment: Bible charades. Mr. Hanisko, his wife, Zelda, and one of their sons joined the group for another discussion, which included videos and stories of the two summer youth camps the Haniskos participated in this summer.

Sunday morning was spent shooting basketballs and playing beach volleyball. After lunch two of the singles presented an award to each of the weekend's participants. The awards included Best Outdoorsman, Best Sport, Best Charade-Maker and Most Entertaining.

After canoeing, the group wrapped up the weekend's activities with two low-rope activities and simulated rock climbing on a 24-foot wall.

See you next time

The weekend was planned and organized by Oshkosh and Milwaukee singles.

They are already planning a similar event at the camp for next summer.

In the meantime, they are looking forward to Gemuetlichkeit II, which will be Dec. 25-28 in Milwaukee.

"We hope to see you there!" said one of the participants.

Church Links - Addresses - Church Logos - Finances - Photos - Memorial

The Study Library - In Transition - Messages Online - Live Services

Back Issues - Subscribe - Email List - Ad Rates - Site Map