Dear Crossways Community,
For over 32 years, Crossways Camping Ministries has been blessed to serve campers, families, and congregations through meaningful summer camp experiences. Together, we have built a ministry focused on faith and community which is rooted in our commitment to offer transformational outdoor ministry for all ages.
As we look to the future, we face the reality of significant changes in participation and interest at our Waypost site, particularly following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. After a thorough review of trends and listening to the concerns of our community, the Crossways Board of Directors has made the decision not to offer traditional Crossways summer programming at Waypost Camp (Hatley, WI) for the 2025 season. This includes Confirmation Camp, Youth Camp, and Family Camp offerings.
This decision comes after years of declining enrollment and the need to focus our efforts on the long-term sustainability and vitality of our overall ministry. While this change is necessary, we know it may emotionally impact many who hold rich memories of camp experiences at this location.
What Comes Next?
We understand that this news may bring disappointment and grief, and we are committed to walking alongside you through this time of transition. As part of our response, we will be hosting a series of in-person and virtual gatherings. These gatherings will provide an opportunity for our community to share their thoughts, offer feedback, and process this change together.
- Sunday, October 20th: Virtual via Zoom 6PM
- Monday, October 28th: In-Person @ Peace Lutheran, Amherst 6PM
- Wednesday, October 30th: Virtual via Zoom 6PM
- Sunday, Nov 10th: In-Person @ St Stephen, Wausau 1PM
- TBD: In-Person @ TBD, Appleton TBD
*RSVPs to Robyn Koehler (robyn@crosswayscamps.org) are requested for in-person events. Alternate opportunities may be scheduled for individuals who expressed interest if a minimum is not reached to host an in-person gathering.
The Crossways 2025 Summer Schedule, reflecting these adjustments, will be released soon, with registration opening on December 1st. This decision allows us to focus all of our efforts, resources, and staffing in developing quality programming at our two other Crossways locations, Imago Dei Village (Clintonville, WI) and Pine Lake Camp (Waupaca, WI). With this decision, we are excited to be offering a new specialty program at Imago Dei Village as well as offsite opportunities with our Pine Lake Camp team.
We have established a short-term Task Force for a small group of invested individuals to explore options for sustainability. They are tasked to generate a report for consideration to the Crossways Board of Directors. To share questions or concerns, please email Board Chair Rev. Rich Block at
board@crosswayscamps.org or Chair of Operations Robyn Koehler at
robyn@crosswayscamps.org. Please keep both our Task Force and Board of Directors in your prayers as they discern the best outcome for the longevity of this ministry together.
While we are not offering Crossways programming at Waypost next summer, we are committed to maintaining the site for its future use and potential. To help with this effort, we invite you to join us for Fall Work Days at Waypost on October 5th, 19th, and 26th from 8am to 5pm. Lunch will be provided, and your participation will ensure that Waypost remains cared for and ready for future opportunities. Please RSVP to
waypost@crosswayscamps.org.
Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers. Together, we will continue to steward Crossways’ ministry and mission for the generations to come.
In faith and partnership,
