August 1, 2006

Frankfort pastor chosen to head North Indiana camping funds raising committee

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indiana Area Bishop Mike Coyner named today, Aug. 1, the Rev. Jean Brindel, senior pastor of Saint Matthew United Methodist Church in Frankfort, Ind., to head the North Indiana Conference Capital Funds Campaign Committee.

Commenting on her appointment to chair this committee, Coyner said, "I am very pleased that Rev. Jean Brindel will chair this committee. She has experience in fund-raising, including her study and certification with the Indiana University School of Philanthropy."

The committee was charged by the North Indiana Annual Conference in June with the responsibility of raising $16 million to upgrade the conference's four campsites at Epworth Forest in North Webster, Camp Adventure in Pierceton, Lakewood in South Milford and Pine Creek in Pine Village. The committee also was charged with establishing an endowment fund for future repair and maintenance. Their first task is conducting a feasibility study to see if $16 million is a realistic goal.

Brindel will work with the North Indiana Conference staff and with two district superintendents. Coyner named the Rev. David Schrader of the Calumet District and the Rev. Robert Dexter of the Michiana District to complete the committee.

Coyner said, "They will be working with laity from across North Indiana who share a passion for camping and for improving our camp facilities."

The Camp Design Committee report, presented and approved at the North Indiana Annual Conference, primarily focused upon the needs of Epworth Forest, where it is has been more than 40 years since any new facilities have been constructed there. The committee envisioned a new auditorium and sleeping facilities that will not only serve teens, but also will serve adults year-round.

For more information about the North Indiana Conference camping program and the complete Camp Design Leadership Team report, log on to www.nicumc.org. 

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