A Season of Growth, Blessings, and New Beginnings at Pioneer on the Lake
“But I trust in You, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’
My times are in Your Hands.” – Psalm 31:14-15
Join Us This Summer at Pioneer on the Lake!
It's that time of year again! The summer months are upon us, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Pioneer on the Lake for a season filled with faith, fellowship, and fun. Whether you’re a longtime camper or a first-timer, we’ve got something for everyone.
Here are the upcoming dates for our Family Camps and special events:
Family Camp Week #1: June 30 – July 5
Family Camp Week #2: July 21 – July 26 (almost full!)
Stronger Together Camp (for persons with disabilities, part of our Agape Program): July 22 – July 26
Family Camp / Music Week: July 28 – August 4
What’s Included?
Three delicious meals daily
Morning devotions in the Chapel of the Woods
Bible study for adults and teens
Supervised activities for children
Free time to enjoy the beach, nature, or simply relax
Campfire devotions to end the day
Register Today and Join Us for a Transformational Summer!
Celebrating Our “New Beginning” and Looking to the Future
As we reflect on the past few years, we can’t help but marvel at the amazing things God has done at Pioneer on the Lake. Just a few short years ago, the future of our beloved camp seemed uncertain. Financial struggles loomed, and there were fears that this beautiful lakeside property would be sold to developers, effectively ending its legacy as a ministry. But God had other plans. Through your prayers, support, and the grace of God, we’ve not only survived, but we’re thriving!
This marks the 3rd year of our “New Beginning,” and we couldn’t be more grateful for His faithfulness. We stand on the threshold of a bright future, ready to continue sharing the gospel through outdoor ministry, bringing people together, and creating lasting memories.
“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me.” – Psalm 54:4
Pioneer Fest 2024: A Celebration You Won’t Want to Miss!
We’re gearing up for our 3rd Annual Pioneer Fest on Sunday, July 21, 2024, and this year promises to be unforgettable! We are thrilled to welcome Mac Powell, former lead singer of the renowned Christian group Third Day. With over 7 million records sold and 28 #1 hits in Christian music, Mac’s performance will be a highlight of the day. But the fun doesn’t stop there—local Christian bands from the Lutheran community of WNY will also be performing, ensuring an uplifting day of music and worship.
Enjoy:
Lake breezes, sunshine, and great food (hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream)
Worship music to refresh your spirit
A community of believers coming together to celebrate God’s goodness
Don’t miss this incredible event!
Vacation Bible School (VBS): Diving Into Friendship with God
This year, we are excited to announce Pioneer on the Lake’s First Official VBS, running from August 5-9, 2024. Partnering with St. John Lutheran Church in Angola, we will be hosting a week of fun, fellowship, and faith for kids in the local community. The theme is “Scuba - Diving into Friendship with God,” which is perfect for our lakeside location.
Please spread the word and invite kids, grandkids, neighbors, and friends to join us. And most importantly, pray that this event will touch many hearts and draw kids closer to Christ.
Exciting Summer Events: More Ways to Connect
Donor Reception – Sunday, July 21, 2024: If you’ve supported Pioneer on the Lake in the past, we want to personally thank you! Join us in Hickman Hall before the festival for refreshments and fellowship with our Board Members.
Lakeside Car Cruise-Ins – Every Friday from 5 pm until dusk (weather permitting) enjoy classic cars, hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, and a stunning lakeside sunset. These weekly events continue through September 27, 2024.
Eclipse Celebration – A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our Eclipse Party on April 8, 2024. We had a front-row seat to God’s handiwork in the heavens, and it was a wonderful time of worship and reflection.
Staff Updates: Welcome Ben & Lindsay Konrad!
We are thrilled to introduce Ben and Lindsay Konrad as our new Program Directors. With extensive experience in Christian retreat and outdoor ministry, they are the perfect fit for Pioneer on the Lake. Ben, a son of Lutheran Bible Translators (LBT) missionaries, and Lindsay, with a background in education and outdoor ministry, are passionate about shaping the next generation of Christian leaders.
Ben and Lindsay, along with their two young children, Alton (4) and Halina (2), have moved into the Program House and are excited to get started. Please give them a warm welcome when you visit! Ben’s camp name is “Mufasa”, and Lindsay’s is “Ducky”—we look forward to getting to know them better!
We also want to express our gratitude to Kathy Gray, who has served as the friendly face of Pioneer’s office. Kathy has been an invaluable part of our team during this transition period, and though she is reducing her hours, she is still helping until a replacement is found. Please pray that God will send us just the right person to fill her role.
In Loving Memory of Pete and Judy DeVantier
Pioneer alumni from the 1980s will fondly remember Pete and Judy DeVantier, who dedicated their lives to serving the Lord at Pioneer. Pete was known for his booming voice, sense of humor, musical talent, and joyful spirit. He, along with Judy, made a lasting impact on all who knew them.
We are deeply saddened to share that Pastor Peter DeVantier went to be with the Lord on April 30, 2024, just months after the passing of his beloved wife, Judy. Their legacy of service and love will always be remembered at Pioneer.
“Blessed are those who die in the Lord… for their deeds follow them.” – Rev. 14:13
Thank You, Thrivent Members!
A special thank you to all Thrivent Financial policyholders who directed their Thrivent Choice Dollars to Pioneer on the Lake this year. Thanks to your generosity, we received $3,600 in donations! If you are a Thrivent policyholder, please consider designating Pioneer as a recipient of your Choice Dollars. Your support makes a huge difference!
Volunteer Spotlight: George and Margo Fretz
We are so grateful for the dedicated volunteers who make Pioneer on the Lake a special place. George and Margo Fretz, from Cleveland, Ohio, have been lifelong supporters of Pioneer. George’s family has a history of serving at camp, and now he and Margo continue that legacy by dedicating their time to painting, gardening, and helping wherever needed. Their servant hearts and cheerful spirits are an inspiration to all.
If you’re interested in volunteering, we’d love your help! We are in need of assistance with tree cutting, log splitting, gardening, painting, and various repairs around the property. Please call our office to schedule a time to serve.
Ways to Support Pioneer on the Lake
We’re so thankful for the incredible support we’ve received, and we’d love to invite you to partner with us in the following ways:
Help Hickman Campaign: Our beloved Hickman Hall needs repairs. Windows and walls have been damaged due to water leaks, and we need your help to restore it. Please consider giving to this urgent cause.
Pioneer Legacy Society & Planned Giving: Your estate gifts can have a lasting impact on future generations. If you’re considering a planned gift, please update your documents to include Friends of Pioneer, Inc., the nonprofit organization managing Pioneer on the Lake.
Volunteer & Donate: Your time, talents, and treasures are always welcome! We have many opportunities to get involved, from events like Pioneer Fest to everyday needs around camp.
We thank God for His faithfulness to Pioneer on the Lake, and we look forward to all He has in store for us in the coming months. Together, we are part of something special—let’s continue to share His love with others and make this a summer to remember!
