Men's retreat at Rock Eagle reaches golden milestone
6/17/2011
By GLENN HANNIGAN
Fifty years often marks a significant milestone, whether in marriage, business or lifespan. It was a far different world 50 years ago.
In 1961, John Kennedy was in his first year as president, John Glenn was training for his first space flight John Lennon had yet to record his first record. The Braves were still in Milwaukee. Jimmy Carter was still in Plains. And the first Methodist men’s retreat was held at Rock Eagle.
Men have gathered there every fall since, with the exception of 2005 when Rock Eagle was cancelled to allow the camp to be used to house refugees from Hurricane Katrina.
The 2011 event, scheduled for Sept. 23-25, will feature several special events to highlight the anniversary. Walt Boyd, Chairman for the Retreats Committee, has been gathering information to be presented in a historical pamphlet that will include a listing of past Rock Eagle speakers, past Conference Presidents for UMM, past Executive Directors, and UMM who have received the Society of John Wesley Award.
Dr. Timothy Tennent, President of Asbury Theological Seminary, will be keynote speaker. Tennent, who grew up in Atlanta as a member of Grace UMC, will be teaching under the theme: "Back To The Future." Rock Eagle will feature about 18 workshops, Bible study on the lake with Carey Gibson, cabin sharing, praise services, a golf tournament and the Red Cross Bloodmobile.
Music will be provided by Crystal River, CrossWalk, Ralph Freeman - for the 42nd year in a row - and a volunteer choir.