The ROC: The History of the Watertown Recreation & Outreach Center...Connecting Teens to the ROCK through the ROC

Abstract

Shaun Arndt’s essay, The History of the Watertown Recreation & Outreach Center, chronicles the founding and development of the ROC, a unique youth ministry initiative by four WELS congregations in Watertown, Wisconsin. Conceived in 1999 and officially launched in 2003, the ROC was designed to offer teens a safe, Christ-centered environment for recreation, fellowship, and spiritual growth. The essay details the collaborative planning, grant acquisition, and facility renovation efforts that led to the ROC’s establishment at 321 South Water Street. Central to its success was the calling of Pastor Tim Mueller as full-time director, whose pastoral care and outreach transformed the ROC into a beacon of hope for churched and unchurched youth alike. The ROC’s impact extended beyond its walls, influencing community leaders and inspiring similar initiatives. Arndt’s work highlights the power of cooperative ministry and gospel-driven outreach. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)