“For a number of years, I was privileged to participate in the orientation of Camp Shiloh staff from around the US. Always, and I mean always, I came away from those sessions that the young people who would be working with the children of Bridgeport CT, and NYC would be both challenged and blessed by the children of those communities. I am thankful for their desire to serve people who, in many ways, did not look like them or sound like them. The Shiloh staff were students from Christian and state colleges and universities dedicating their summers to ensure that the children of NYC and Bridgeport would have the opportunity to experience the heavenly beauty of the Catskill mountains while encountering the mystery of Jesus' love. And yet, I found myself deeply thankful for the kids of Bridgeport and NYC, for they were not just recipients of the staff's care; the kids were also teachers for the students.
In the early 80s I had the opportunity to visit Camp Shiloh when I was a Youth Minister at the Allentown church of Christ in Pennsylvania. I remember the drive. Back then, I thought it was a long drive. I had heard of Shiloh's history, had friends who were working during that summer, and I found myself desiring to see the place myself. Years later, as a member of the Stamford church of Christ, friends served either on the Board of Camp Shiloh and one was a Shiloh staff member from its inception. I found myself deeply thankful for their love for Camp Shiloh, and their continued devotion to its mission. Because of them, when the Board approached me to serve as a member, I agreed. It felt like God was calling me. It wasn't a "Burning Bush" moment like Moses, but it felt tremendously sacred.
Shiloh is a reflection of the human experience. For over 50 years women and men have served the young people of urban communities by sharing who we believe Jesus to be. Today, I am thankful that many of those young people are taking leadership roles for Shiloh's future. Today, I am thankful for a Board of Directors who, though very aware of our own flaws and imperfections, depend on The One Who Is Greater Than All Of Us to guide us as we attempt to shepherd Shiloh throughout this century.
Thanksgiving happens to be my favorite holiday. I thank God for Camp Shiloh and its mission for over half a century. That mission continues, and we will never know the impact of the lives that have been impacted by the Shiloh Mission.
But God will know.
And for that, I am thankful.”
Laconia Therrio
Board Member
