Indispensible Anchor Points of Great Living!

Indispensible Anchor Points of Great Living!

by Uncle Woody Strodel, Brookwoods alumnus

“This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.”  Psalm 118: 22-23

The Strodel Family

On behalf of the entire Texas Strodel family and my dear departed wife, “Aunt Dawn,” I want to express my deepest joy to Camp Brookwoods and its current leadership on this marvelous 75th Anniversary. We celebrate this time remembering Miles and Grace Strodel and their many years of camp leadership in Massachusetts, Maryland and New Hampshire. Dawn and I had the privilege to walk beside them and assist in many years of service together—these years have provided incredible focal points in my Christian camping ministry and guided me as I served as executive director at First Presbyterian Church Camp in Pittsburgh years later.

Camp Brookwoods Staff, 1959 Uncle Woody first row, 2nd from the left

I firmly believe when we blend home, school, church, and Christian camp, four key anchor points of true discipleship in Jesus Christ are born. Brookwoods has emulated the perfect example nation-wide like no other institution of such a framework. It has done this with huge success over these 75 years and I have no doubt will continue.

Much of my personal Christian growth at Brookwoods was due to the kindness of Dr. Harold Ockenga, who released me from Park Street Church in Boston during the summer months to assist and learn from Miles. Enormous pleasant memories are still with me, as I recall initiating the Maine Wilderness trip, Chibougamou adventures, the 100-mile bike trip in New Hampshire and Maine, golf trips, and many teen camps (after the regular camping season). Serving alongside my brother, much as Bob and David Strodel do today, was a joy and privilege I hold dearly.

“Uncle Woody & Aunt Dawn” by the stone wall

I lean on those early years and have so many fond memories from silly dining hall skits, to driving the ski boat, or playing softball on the Brookwoods backfield. There were countless great Biblical discussions as we poured our hearts into teaching others about the importance of trusting the Lord and gaining Christ-centered tools for life. I learned so much from Miles including how to be grateful. I remember Miles telling me “God has blessed us with balance, good choices, mentors, and good wives.” He also advised me to “Preserve the core and stimulate progress,” from author Jim Collins. These are moments I will never forget. I have been blessed beyond measure as there are so many others from my days at camp that molded me personally and professionally. To this day, I still quote Uncle Nubby who told me to “always bring your criticism up to date.” Powerful stuff.

Time will only tell the depth of Camp’s impact for the Kingdom of God because of the unique endeavors that stem from Brookwoods. Psalm 118  from Euguene Peterson’s translation titled, The Message Bible, says: “This is the Lord’s work. We rub our eyes – we can hardly believe it! This is the day God acted – let’s celebrate and be festive!”

Sadly, I’m unable to attend this great event, but I am delighted to share my deepest appreciation and love for Brookwoods and its legacy through this letter. God Bless you all, and God bless Brookwoods, Deer Run and Moose River Outpost.

With love and gratitude,

Uncle Woody

“Woody” Strodel and his family happily worship and serve our Lord at Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas, TX. After more than 50 years of active ministry, he is retired but continues as Pastor Emeritus. Woody would love to hear from you, wdstrodel@aol.com