The New Ebenezer Family Retreat and Conference Center in Rincon will celebrate “30 Years of Miracles.”

Beginning at 11 a.m. on Jan. 19, the program will feature entertainment by the Jerusalem Lutheran Church bell choir, a slide show recounting 30 years of service, a walking tour of the center and lunch. The celebration is free, but space is limited. Donations will graciously be accepted to help fund the next chapter of miracles — a fully handicap- accessible cottage.

The center is located on the bank of the Savannah River on the site of the historical town of New Ebenezer founded in 1736 by Lutheran immigrants from the Salzburg area of Europe.

In 1977, hotelier Richard Kessler envisioned the retreat facility and worked closely with Jerusalem Lutheran church and architect John LeBey to situate the center along the grid pattern originally laid out by Noble Jones of Savannah. New Ebenezer is founded on ecumenical Christian principles as a haven for those seeking a place for personal growth, meditation and relaxation.  

“This exciting anniversary celebrates the important 30th milestone of offering this revitalizing retreat and homestead,” founder and chairman Kessler said. “Our goal in 2008 is to extend our reach of miracles to provide a handicap-accessible cottage for those in need. As a not-for-profit organization, we rely heavily on the donations and support of those who understand and support our initiatives. The celebration is an excellent venue for us to showcase our beautiful grounds and vision of the past 30 years as well as for the years to come.”

About the New Ebenezer Retreat and Conference Center
This facility offers modern restful accommodations for individuals and groups up to 175 people. Meeting facilities for up to 400 people are also available. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities including tennis, swimming, volleyball, basketball and hiking. The Ebenezer Alive educational program for school groups offers courses in character education, environmental science and history.

Space for the 30th anniversary celebration is limited and those interested in attending should call 754-9242, e-mail retreat@newebenezer.org or visit: www.newebenezer.org.