Brethren from the Fairview Heights, Illinois, congregation gathered at Carlyle Lake June 9 to 11 for a weekend of camping and fellowship.
For many of the small children, it was their first camping trip.
Everyone helped in some way: pitching tents, watching the children or barbecuing dinner. Friday evening we gathered under the pavilion for a tasty dinner of buffalo, steak and other treats.
The Sabbath was restful and relaxed. The men cooked a breakfast of scrambled eggs and fried potatoes. Afterwards, 57 brethren attended services, which were held outside under the pavilion and in lawn chairs in the shade nearby. Doyle Heim accompanied hymns with his accordion.
After services and lunch, many brethren walked down to the lake to enjoy a bit of God's beautiful creation. That night, after a successful hot dog and s'mores campfire roast, some were scared away by impending storms and went home. Others stayed and took shelter in campers as the rain pelted down with heavy winds. God protected His people, and all brethren returned home safely after an enjoyable weekend.
