Dear Camp Family,
We are very sad to share that a large fire occurred last night in our brand new Maintenance Shop. EVERYONE IS SAFE. The fire was completely contained to the building site. Unfortunately and despite the quick and excellent response of the Lake Lure Fire Department, the building and contents could not be salvaged. We do not yet know the cause of the fire, but it does seem that it originated near the area where our motorized vehicles were parked (riding lawnmower, skid steer, forklift). Our insurance adjuster is coming next week to determine the replacement value for the structure and the contents.
This new building has been our facility-improvement focus for the last 9 months. Mac Hillabush, our Maintenance Director, has invested countless hours into moving the old bunker to a new site and creating a maintenance space that would most efficiently benefit the ministry. Several volunteer work crews have also made special trips to help with the completion of this project. Needless to say, it is a heart breaking loss for our team.
And, yet...
We are thankful that the Lord is Sovereign.
We are thankful that no one was injured.
We are thankful that this loss will not impede our ability to be ministry focused and continue the 2023 summer camp season as planned.
We are thankful that we had two weeks of rain leading up to this to keep the fire contained.
We are thankful that the new building was isolated from other structures and the fire did not pose a risk to them.
We are thankful for our incredible staff who were all on site within minutes of being alerted.
We are thankful for an excellent fire department that is within 1,000 yards of our facility.
We are thankful for insurance and the help it will provide in order to rebuild.
We are thankful for heroes of the faith who have served diligently here at camp in the past and modeled strength in the midst of adversity.
God is present and good. Please continue to pray for our ability to be faithful and obedient regardless of our circumstances. I am excited to see how the Lord blesses us and guides us through this adverse experience. In our staff meeting this week, we meditated on Psalm 40, and the Lord reminded me of it last night.
"As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!" Psalm 40:17
Thank you for your prayers and support.
God Bless,
Dan Bragdon
Camp Director
