Our People
In April of 1972, the Garden State Fellowship of Regular Baptist Churches purchased Pennington Island, bringing New Life Island to life. Over the years, God has worked in countless ways here—most importantly through the lives changed by His grace. We are deeply grateful for this beautiful and unique place, where guests can experience the wonder of creation and grow in their understanding of the Creator.
At New Life Island, we value the safety of our campers above all else and work diligently to provide a secure, welcoming environment. We also strive to show genuine hospitality, inviting each camper to feel at home—relax, have fun, and leave the distractions of the world behind to focus on eternal things.
Meet the Team
Jordan Rofe
Camp Director
Jordan and Esther Rofe came to the Island in 2019 when Jordan was the Program Coordinator and Mr. Norm's assistant. Jordan has now been the Camp Director since 2022 and Esther has had many supporting roles, most importantly being an amazing mother to their two wonderful children, Alaina and Caleb. Recently, however, they have sensed the Lord's leading to return to their hometown in central New York to live near their extended families. The summer of 2026 will be their last summer at camp. Though they will miss the ministry and the many people they have worked with, they look forward to this new chapter in their family's story.
Cherie MacKenzie
Director of Development
Cherie MacKenzie loves people and loves the ministry here at New Life Island. She brings many years of experience to the NLI staff and enjoys developing deeper relationships with those connected to the camp. Cherie and her late husband, former director Norm MacKenzie, came to New Life Island in 1992. Norm and Cherie have been foundational in the development of New Life Island. It is God’s work through them that has made the Island what it is today.
The MacKenzie’s have three married children and eight grandchildren.
Matthew Carpenter, Neal Moyer, Michael Eisenberg, Joseph Kakolowski, Robert Finch, and Andrew Grunder
Camp Board
We are very thankful for a group of godly men who give of their time and resources to make sure that New Life Island operates in an orderly and efficient manner.
Our board is trusting in the Lord's leading and provision as they search for the future leadership of this special camp ministry.