This year marks the 50th anniversary of Whispering Pines Retreat, a serene 91-acre property owned by Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), located just outside Shawano. For five decades, the innkeepers, Kay and Orren Frederick, have nurtured this peaceful haven, offering rest, spiritual renewal, and a place of community for countless individuals and groups. Their unwavering dedication to the retreat has been grounded in their Christian faith, reflecting the heart of Concordia’s mission to foster faith and fellowship.
Whispering Pines began as a generous gift from the Strandt Foundation/Dettmann family, who provided the land and buildings to Concordia College (now CUW) in 1976. Since then, Kay and Orren have worked tirelessly to transform the property into a vibrant retreat center. The couple’s efforts have gone beyond hospitality, seeing their roles as a ministry, guided by their deep belief that the retreat is a gift from God and a space for others to encounter His peace.
The retreat, nestled in nature’s beauty, offers tranquil lodging, walking trails, and a variety of spaces for reflection, family reunions, and small group retreats. Over the years, CUW students, faculty, and alumni have experienced the special atmosphere of Whispering Pines, which has become a second home for many. The retreat has hosted numerous student groups, including Concordia University Wisconsin Kammerchor, athletic teams, and international groups from Japan, Uruguay, and beyond.
A favorite memory of the Fredericks is a visit from a high school principal from Tokyo who remarked, “I have been in many peaceful settings in Japan, but I have never experienced peace like I have here.” Such testimonies reflect the enduring impact Whispering Pines has had on the CUW community, offering a sanctuary where faith and friendships grow.
As they reflect on their 50 years of service, Kay and Orren emphasize their belief in the words of Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” For them, the work at Whispering Pines has been more than a job, it’s been a sacred calling that has shaped their lives and the lives of many others.
“Whispering Pines is not just a retreat; it’s a place where God’s presence is palpable,” said Kay Frederick. “We’re proud to have been part of Concordia’s mission to create a place where students and families can connect with each other and with God.”
As Whispering Pines enters its next chapter, the Fredericks hope to continue welcoming guests into the retreat’s peaceful embrace, fostering an environment where God’s love and grace are experienced by all who visit. For the CUW community, the retreat serves as a living testament to the university’s vision of creating a place where faith and friendships flourish.
A concluding note for students and campus groups: do not miss the opportunity to experience the beautiful Whispering Pines during your time at CUW. Kay and Orren Frederick would love to have you. Reservations can be made via this link: https://www.cuw.edu/about/offices/whispering-pines-retreat/reservation-form.html, found on the CUW website.
—Alexandra Princeton is the social media manager and marketing designer for The Beacon. She is a sophomore Mass Communication major with a minor in Marketing.