________The Refuge ________

Pastor John & Glenda Kalebaugh & family want to welcome you to The Refuge: a non-denominational church that meets every week at 10 a.m. at the campground.  Everyone is welcome to attend this 1 hour (+) service that follows the frog jumping contest.  A potluck luncheon immediately follows and everyone is welcome to attend -- even if you don't attend the service. Bring a dish to pass and come enjoy the fellowship.

Upcoming Events:

July  30-Aug. 1  Hard to believe we are at our 20th Annual Christian Celebration Weekend.  There will be live music on Sat. and also activities all weekend.  Some being our normal campground activities and also volleyball,carpetball and other tounaments.  Set time to spend with us.

Just a Note... Terry & Barbie are singers, songwriters, and speakers that have ministered full-time for over 25 years as a duo, focusing on their theme: “Inspiring Love in the Home & Revival in the Church.” Through family concerts and marriage seminars nationwide, as well as in 34 foreign countries, they are reaching countless marriages and families with the hope and love of Jesus.  They are no strangers here at the campground.  To watch a promotional video or to just learn more about their ministry, please visit their website at: www.heartfortheworld.com .             

 A Little History of The Refuge

The Refuge has been named only as of 2005.  Originally named Mendota Hills Praise Service, it was started in 1990.  We started seasonal camping in 1987 and needed a church service at Mendota Hills.  It started off very casual (and still continues that way today) and with the permission of the owners we decided to start the service.  After the first year, the Christian Celebration Weekends began with Nashville singers Terri and Barbi Franklin. 

Since that time, we have had a variety of musicians come for that weekend and for regular services.  We have recently had the involvment of four churches to help out with VBS, Fun Fairs, Celebration Weekends, work weeks, and much more.  Please contact us if you would like to get involved in a Youth group retreat, VBS, or any other activity.

The service was coined the "Refuge" a few years ago from different campers and it stuck.  It is a place of refuge for many.  A time to get away for a weekend or a week.  If you are not used to church, you might find ours pretty comfortable.  It is a place where you can learn something about the Bible and spiritual matters.  We are all looking for God, but get confused by all the different teachings from the media and other sources.  We teach from the Bible and try to stay grounded to Biblical Truths.

In 2005, Pastor John Kalebaugh, his wife Glenda, and their children joined us as part of the church family.  He is a Godly man and lives a life he teaches. 

Following the service each Sunday, we have a "Potluck".  It is a dish to pass, but if you are here for first time don't worry about that.  There is plenty of food (except chocolate). Never enough chocolate.  Come and enjoy and be fed...

                                                  Mark & Sue Rogers, Owners

                                                  To contact The Refuge, write to: Refugechurch777@aol.com