Not enough young Presbyterian ministers and their families are taking advantage of an opportunity to spend a free week at the renowned Chautauqua Institution in New York.
Chautauqua Institution is a summer community located in southwestern New York State on the shores of Lake Chautauqua. It specializes in programs in the arts, religion and recreation, with some 2,200 events each summer for more than 170,000 guests. The 2013 summer season runs from June 22-Aug. 23. Each week's program is built around a particular theme.
Two donors have created the Kahelnberg and Philips Funds, which cover all expenses for the week, including gate passes, room and board, parking, Chautauqua’s Children’s School and Club and a variety of educational and recreational programs for the pastor and spouse.
The week at Chautauqua is valued at a minimum of $2,600 for a family of four.
“About $10,000 isn't spent,” said Presbyterian Chautauqua veteran Jim Mead of Cathedral City, Calif., “because we can't get candidates. It’s a shame because it’s such a great opportunity for young families.”
Applications for the Kahlenberg/Philips grants are available from Susan Vande Kappelle, 573 Franklin Farms Road, Washington, PA, 15301.
Applications for the summer 2013 Chautauqua season must be received by Oct. 15, 2012 Preference is given to those who have never been to Chautauqua and need. No pets are allowed.
Weekly themes next summer are: "Our Elegant Universe," June 22-28; "The Next Greatest Generation," June 29-July 5; "America 1863," July 6-12; "Markets and Morals: Reimagining the Social Contract," July 13-19; "The Pursuit of Happiness," July 20-26; "Crime and Punishment," July 27-Aug. 2; "Diplomacy," Aug. 3-9; "Turkey: Model for the Middle East? Aug. 10-16; and "Healthcare: Reform and Innovation," Aug. 17-23.