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More than 275 men from the seven Northern California ARCs met recently at Camp Redwood Glen to “Catch the Vision,” as they experienced the joy, fun, and fellowship a life of sobriety offers.
Under the leadership of Capt. Sam Southard, chair of the No. California committee of ARC administrators, and supported by the other six administrators and their wives, this was the largest gathering of ARC men in a retreat setting held in the Western Territory.
Each delegate attended three Bible studies, taught by ARC chaplains Nick Amreim and Bruce Wilson, San Francisco/Lytton, and Capt. Clyde Curnow, San Jose. A number of different 12-Step meetings were held on the grounds chaired by various delegates.
The choir, led by Major Pat Boyd, Oakland, sang several times throughout the weekend and was uplifting to those who participated and those who listened. Some of those in the choir had never sung in one before.
Recreation included baseball, basketball and swimming and for some it was a first time experience to just have fun, like a “kid.” Men from all walks of life–including ex-gang members and ex-cons–enjoyed the weekend.
Special Saturday evening entertainment was brought by Noel Murphy, a motivational speaker and singer. Captain Le Roy Thieme, ARC Command Assistant Finance Secretary, brought the morning message and the Holy Spirit drew 150 men to the Mercy seat.