Staff Band Retreat Weekend

By David VanderWeele

 

 

   The New York Staff Band members and spouses approached the annual Retreat Weekend with high anticipation, searching for spiritual replenishment, friendly fellowship, and some much needed relaxation. With the knowledge that the retreat weekend would be led by Colonels Dick and Vibeke Krommenhoek, not even the threat of a severe blizzard could diminish the expectations for this weekend. The accommodations, as per usual, were second to none, as the weekend was held at Dolce Hamilton Park in Florham Park , New Jersey . Upon arrival, every Staff Band member and Spouse could easily see that our retreat would play out without disappointment, even under ominous skies.

 

  After arrival to the hotel and a short refreshment period, the retreat weekend began with an encouraging first session led by the Krommenhoeks, which also featured two solos by Staff Bandsmen Chris Ward and Ryan McCrudden, and a personal testimony by Staff Bandsman Peter Vaughan. In the morning session, the members of the staff band were challenged by the Krommenhoeks to strive to understand the Scripture and put forth an ardent effort in understanding the basis of our Faith.

 

  The morning session was followed by an immensely satisfying lunch, which would set the tone for the rest of the meals to follow (an aspect of staff band weekends that is always expected and received). However, as we ate and enjoyed the fellowship, it was obvious by just a quick glance out of one of the many windows in the dining area, that the quickly falling and accumulating snow could turn this into a three-day retreat.

 

  After lunch, the retreat continued with another powerful and well planned session offered by the Krommenhoeks. Upon completion, it was clear to all attendees that this weekend would fulfill our spiritual needs. The afternoon session was followed by free time in which the brave ventured outside in the storm to go shopping, while those who remained at Dolce Hamilton Park took advantage of the ping-pong table, swimming pool, or the Jacuzzi.

 

  After our free time, dinner was served and followed by a very interesting time of fun and fellowship put together by the retreat committee. The evening program was emceed by Major Phil Ferreira and featured games developed by Staff Bandsman Jeff Markee and the Krommenhoeks themselves. Following the program, free time was offered in which the band members and spouses could socialize, snack again, or play a game of "WallyBall". All in all, it was a great ending to a fulfilling day.

 

  A revitalizing Holiness meeting, led by the Krommehoeks, followed the first day. The Holiness meeting featured a time for testimony that was personally challenging for this particular member, and a powerful message delivered by Colonel Dick Krommenhoek. Following the meeting, was yet another great meal accompanied by many curious looks outside the Hotel's windows at the slowly dissipating storm. While it was clear that the ride home would not fall victim to the snow, the afternoon concert that was planned was not awarded the same fate. The concert was called off due to the weather and the retreat concluded after lunch. The weekend was over, however, I feel that I can safely say that everyone who attended went home challenged and revived.