The time is at hand to welcome another vibrant summer in Montreat, to greet returning friends and new faces alike to sacred spaces here in the valley for a time of renewal, connection, and joy in our beloved mountains.
This summer’s schedule is familiar with six Youth Conferences, Presbyterian Association of Musicians’ two Worship and Music Conferences, the Fourth of July Week, and nine weeks of recreation programs, all framed by ten worship services between May and August. Registrations indicate a similar number of participants of all ages are readying for the multitude of opportunities for worship and learning, exercise and play, reflection, and community. Just another summer of familiar rhythms in Montreat, yes?
Well, for the most part, yes indeed. This year our preparations have taken place amid challenges that have refined our faith, calling us again to remember that none of God’s blessings should be taken for granted. If you haven’t been here since last summer, if you haven’t observed the slow but steady progress since September 27th – if you think that it looks “pretty good, considering,” as someone remarked recently – I’m with you. It’s a testament to the fact that Montreat was spared the worst of Helene’s impact and to the countless hours and immense energy spent repairing the damage she did inflict.
Looking at the hurricane’s impact across the region provides more perspective as losses in Western North Carolina took many forms and reached varying depths. Much loss here exists within a framework of repair and restoration; cleanup, expensive repairs, and unexpected delays can inconvenience us, frustrate us, and upend our wisest plans. These losses have tested our patience, our adaptability, and our resources. Other losses have been absolute. For a few in our community and for many more in neighboring communities, realities have been altered in devastating ways. These losses have left lasting marks that require grieving and healing at an individual’s own pace.
Over the coming weeks I’m going to give further updates on Montreat’s recovery from Helene and express even more excitement about the season unfolding. I’ll give some details about our ready-to-go new summer staff, a summary of the conference center’s financial status, and other news worth celebrating…and I hope it moves you to celebrate! If so, just be mindful of all that has happened these last nine months. Rejoice for what can be restored (even if it hasn’t been restored just yet) while holding space for those walking through something deeper.
If Helene taught nothing else, the storm provided one more reminder of the importance of distinguishing entitlement from gift. Whether for a day for the whole of the summer, or for some time between, we are fortunate to be together. I hope you will do everything you can to make the most of it and to share that spirit with all around you. I’m grateful that you are here!
Richard DuBose
President, Montreat Conference Center