The Macoun Evangelical Missionary Church (MEMC) is hitting the green for a good cause, hosting the first annual Curtis Fehr Memorial Golf Tournament in support of two nearby Bible camps.
The event has been held annually for several years; however, this is the first year the name will honour Curtis Fehr, a significant member of the congregation who passed away tragically last year.
Event organizer and MEMC Pastor Charlie Bowen explains the change was suggested by his wife, Darlene Bowen, because of Fehr and his wife Jessie’s annual dedication to the event.
“Curtis and Jessie looked forward to the golf tournament every year. It was a big highlight for them to be a part of it, Curtis loved it and had a lot of fun doing it, and then they were really generous when it came to auction items, that kind of thing, to raise extra funds for the camp above and beyond the cost of the golf tournament.”
The event initially supported Echo Lake Bible Camp, located near Fort Qu’Appelle, due to its affiliation with the church, but last year expanded to include Estevan Bible Camp, according to Bowen. He says when the event first began, he was looking for a way to support camp ministries.
“We think it's an important ministry where lives are changed for eternity, and camps are always struggling financially. Since I love camp and I love golf, I thought this was a good idea.”
Initially, the tournament was held at the Echo Ridge Golf Course, near Echo Lake Bible Camp, but then relocated to the Woodlawn Golf Course in Estevan. In recent years it has been held at the Stoughton Golf Course, and this year it will be held at Mainprize Regional Park for the first time. Last year's event brought in over $13,000 for both camps.
The date of the tournament is set for June 21st, Bowen says there are still a few spots open with an entry fee of $190 for 18 holes. Entrants can inquire at (306) 634-9284.
“There's the tournament, and then we go back to the church for supper where the golfers are all given prizes, thanks to our generous donors. Then there's a few auction items that that are auctioned off at the church as well, and all the proceeds go to the Bible camps.”
To otherwise support these camps, donations can be made via e-Transfer at memcoffering@gmail.com.