Camp Lutherhaven’s first summer, held back in 1949, seems like a distant memory as Camp Lutherhaven concludes its 75th season of summer camp on the shores of Lake Muncie. Through these passing decades, Camp has changed; the campers, the buildings, the staff – it has grown and developed. Most importantly, it has continued to spread the love of Jesus, strengthening the faith of youth, adults, families, and our surrounding community.

With each season, there is change. Tim Jank, Camp Lutherhaven’s Executive Director since 1993, has informed Camp Lutherhaven’s Board of Directors he intends to retire from outdoors ministry in the spring of 2025. We share this with you with hearts full of gratitude, love, hope, and faith in our God who holds the future of Lutherhaven closely.

During Tim’s tenure and under his leadership, significant contributions have been made to Camp Lutherhaven’s mission. To list all of them would take a book, but some include expanding Camp’s ministry to reach youth, adults, and families year-round; the replacement and enhancement of facilities including the Daniel Retreat Center, Cabins, Treetop Village, playground, and waterfront; extending Camp’s acreage; and many more. While these are vitally important to the success of Camp, Tim has also had an eternal impact in ways a letter cannot capture. Throughout his ministry at Camp, Tim has impacted thousands of staff, guests, and campers. As you can see, during these past 31 years, Tim, his wife Brenda, and their family, made Camp a home; not just for themselves, but for all those who served or attended. Tim writes:

“These past 31 years have been an amazing tapestry of God’s handiwork evidenced by the connections with the Lutherhaven community, partnership with like-minded leaders, my own personal growth, Brenda and I raising our children, and watching the power of God’s love touch the lives of tens of thousands – young and old alike – through this ministry. Camp Lutherhaven has a rich, 75-year history and it’s been my privilege to be a part of this kingdom work.

I believe Camp’s mission has a very bright future; however, I also believe that the time has come for me to step down as Executive Director. I plan to retire from outdoors ministry in the spring of 2025. I can’t thank you enough for all your love and support throughout the many different seasons of life and ministry here at Camp. I hope you will join me in praying for Camp, its staff, and leadership as we embark on this important transition to help Lutherhaven thrive in the years ahead with reaching out with God’s love amidst His beautiful creation.”

“While Tim, Brenda, and their family will be greatly missed, this is a time for celebration of Tim and his impact on Camp Lutherhaven! Plans to celebrate Tim & Brenda’s ministry are underway and more details will be shared in the coming months.

God is good! We know He has tremendous plans for the Jank family and we know He has amazing plans for Camp Lutherhaven. Your support during this transition is vitally important. Please keep the Board in your prayers as they take on the important task of discerning, finding, and developing the best leadership for Lutherhaven’s mission, as well as Lutherhaven’s staff as they continue to carry out the ongoing, daily ministry at Lutherhaven. We rely on the reassurance found in Hebrews 6:19, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”

Adam Gaines, Board President
Camp Lutherhaven Board of Directors