Jim Condap
Executive Director
Since 1957, the mission of Pilgrim Pines has been to be a place that connects people to each other and to Christ. We seek to do this in an amazing backdrop of God’s creation in Swanzey, New Hampshire. As we continue to balance tradition and forward movement, a healthy tension we are privileged to live in, we find great joy in serving the good people of the East Coast Conference. We are so thankful to God for filling this camp again and again as children, youth, individuals, and families experience Pilgrim Pines throughout the year. We are especially thankful for an amazing summer ministry season. As a point of reference, this past summer was our first uninterrupted summer since 2019! To say that the last few years have been unique is an understatement. God continues to be faithful as we continue to move forward, following His lead.
It has been a busy and productive few months since our summer season concluded. We added some new staff members, jumped right into retreat season, and worked hard to make improvements throughout our camp. As we continue to be good stewards of our camp, we remember that people and ministry will always come first, but the opportunity for new buildings, recreational opportunities, and the upgrading of existing structures are vital for the ongoing use of Pilgrim Pines. We are moving forward and raising the standard of our facilities while maintaining a healthy camp feel.
A sign of a healthy camp is growth, and Pilgrim Pines is growing. Sitting above the Mayflower Lodge overlooking Swanzey Lake sits the stunning Skytop property. Originally part of the property, but privately owned by a wonderful family for the past 67 years, Skytop has been acquired and is now part of Pilgrim Pines, thanks to a faithful and vision-filled donor. We see this beautiful property being used by our conference clergy for retreats or during sabbatical times. We envision campers hiking and enjoying the views of Mount Monadnock, and we look forward to families gathering weekly during Family Camp. Stay tuned for more ministry opportunities as we look forward to sharing Skytop with our Pines family.
Pilgrim Pines continues to make forward progress. Yes, we see improvements to buildings and grounds, but more importantly, we see spiritual growth as we witness others making decisions to follow Jesus. We have the opportunity to walk side by side with our staff and develop leaders as they explore their call to ministry. We also continue to observe individuals and families as they come together and meet God through relationships, teachings, and conversations. What a privilege.
Thank you once again for your prayers, participation, and gifts to camp. You are vital to our continued and future success. With God’s guidance and your sacrificial support, the future of Pilgrim Pines as a place where lives are changed will be ensured. See you at camp!