 You’re probably familiar with HopeWood Outdoors, one of the many organizations that partners with the NEOS. Also known as “Lutheran Outdoor Ministries in Ohio (LOMO),” this organization’s primary focus is, "Bringing people together to experience Christ through natural settings and programs.” They accomplish this through on-site summer camps, year-round retreat opportunities, environmental education, off-site retreats, and summer events and programming in the community. Morgan Lee-Barton is the Guest Relations Manager for HopeWoord. This position involves marketing, managing registrations, and helping out with general day-to-day camp operations. "Personally, being involved in this organization gives me the opportunity to meet people of faith from all over the state. It gives me hope for the future of the Church," they beam. "Our organization empowers people (especially young people) to ask questions about faith and take ownership over their faith."
HopeWood has many participants who aren’t involved in faith communities at home, but come to camp year after year, because it is the place that they experience God and participate in a faith community. People build relationships here. They build relationships not just with each other, but with God. Contributions to Mission Support help organizations like HopeWood benefit individuals, families, congregations, and communities by helping them dig deeper in their faith journey. It helps our Lutheran camping ministry pay for the things that make this ministry possible: dedicated staff members, facility upkeep, curriculum and training resources, and so much more. HopeWood thanks all those who contribute to Mission Support to help support their wonderful organization.
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  If a person isn't familiar with the Kaufman Resource Center (or KRC for short), it is a special part of the synod that operates like a library, offering a treasure trove of books and resources to all who enter. It is a place for learning, growing, and even reflection. It is not only a place for rostered ministers to acquire curriculum, or lay congregation members to pick up Bible study materials, it is also a welcoming space for children to grow in their faith.
The KRC, like any well-rounded library, offers a continuously expanding children's section that includes a plethora of books and other resources designed to not only instruct children on their own faith, but also the faiths and beliefs of others, as it is important for children to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. In addition to faith-based resources, and resources that celebrate others, the KRC also offers resources that help children accept and learn to celebrate themselves. Books that teach children the importance of self-acceptance and self-esteem building are also included in the KRC. As both the synod Resource Specialist and mom of two toddlers (both born during the COVID-19 Pandemic), Rebekah Wissler has been trying to make more children and teen resources available. She has also been working to include many other resources for parents like her, that want to share the Word of God with their kids or family as the world still adjusts to a post-pandemic life. The resources from the KRC have not only helped her teach and share the teachings of the Bible with her children, but they've also helped bring about a "return to normal" these past two years. The resources from the KRC have empowered her to create a nurturing environment where her kids can thrive, learn, and develop a love of God. She encourages parents, pastors, and everyone to explore the KRC, take advantage of the resources available, and advocate for continued mission support funding, as the KRC relies on mission support dollars to maintain and enhance its services. She thanks everyone for the generosity that has helped this wonderful synod asset grow and thrive. |
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