We have often been urged to write the story of Christian Renewal Center—how it came into being and how God has provided so miraculously for its existence and growth. It is the story that amazes us because we started with the dream of one lodge somewhere in the mountains of California. How that dream was transferred to Oregon and has grown to include forty acres and fourteen buildings causes us to stand in awe of God's wondrous works and ways.

To tell this story we need to go further back than just the beginning of Christian Renewal Center because the foundational stones for this part of our lives and ministry had been laid earlier.

Our lives have been blessed by the many wonderful retreats and many great teachers we have sat under and by many inspired writers. We will mention some of them whom we have had the privilege of meeting and entertaining in our home. In comparison to people like Dr. J. Edwin Orr, the well-known authority on revival, Corrie ten Boom, the heroine of World War II prison camps and Gladys Aylward, whose story was featured in the film, Inn of the Sixth Happiness, our story seems small and insignificant. But here it is with the hope and prayer that others who feel insignificant might be encouraged. If God could bless our feeble efforts and forgive our failures, He can do the same for you and bless the dreams He has given you. (from the Preface of When God Gives a Dream by Eunice Hansen)

"I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;
I will tell of all thy wonderful deeds.
I will be glad and exult in Thee,
I will sing praises to thy name, O Most High!"
Psalm 9:1-2

Pastor Allan and Eunice Hansen - CRC Founders

My Favorite Things—A CRC Song
Talking with God in the freshness of dawn,
Learning about Him and praising in song,
Prayer in the chapel with the valley below;
It’s one of the loveliest places I know.

Silver Falls picnics—just look at that view!
Strolling and talking with friends that are new;
Children at play on the playground and swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Time to be quiet down by the stream;
Listen to God’s voice or maybe just dream;
Praying with others and learning to share
Some precious moments with people who care.
When I go back
To the fast track,
And I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don’t feel so bad.

Words by Helen Johnson
Sung to the music from
“Sound of Music”
by Hammerstein