August 2024

With the ground breaking for the pavilion happening this month, I find myself reflecting on the development of Pathways’ physical spaces, namely the retreat house, cottage, and now the pavilion.
 
The old part of the retreat house was built in 1920 as an addition to the main house. Perhaps it was a guest house or caretaker residence originally. In 2008 Julie, Bodie, and their son Nathan completely rehabbed the space, previously used as an apartment. This happened during the summer when my family was away on sabbatical. The Stegelmann’s put a lot of their own finances and sweat equity into transforming the space and the result was a small, yet welcoming retreat house where prayers, spiritual direction sessions, and group events were held.
 
The cottage was built a year later thanks to an anonymous donor. Rohr Bomberger designed the cottage, named Solace, and our neighbor, Jon Byler, built it. A prayer walk and dedication was held on October 14, 2009. For 15 years, the cottage has provided sacred space for many people.
 
The largest capital campaign project to date was the expansion of the retreat house in 2015-16. Many people and businesses contributed financially to the project and countless volunteer hours were given by board members, spiritual director associates, and other supporters. For both the cottage and retreat house, the Elkhart County Community Foundation provided grant monies for furnishings. The retreat house addition has expanded Pathways’ ministry exponentially.
 
Now, this month, excavation will happen for a pavilion and walkway, with construction beginning in September. The pavilion is part of a larger project that includes a:

• three-acre native prairie;
• Tree of Hope prayer sculpture;
• hammock “room” underneath pine trees; and
• an outdoor meeting space among plum trees.

 
Over 96 generous donors have contributed to make this project possible. With its completion in the Spring, all 17-acres that Pathways stewards will be space intentionally created to fulfill Pathways’ mission as a place of spiritual retreat for rest, reflection, and renewal.

-Linda Lehman Thomas, Director