Our History

Learn more about  Brüderschaft St. Christoph

In March 1996, six friends, Mike Wiegele, Norm Crerar, Steve Podborski, Andy Aufschnaiter, Werner Schuh, and Rupert Huber, sat together in the Guide's Haus at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing in Blue River. They talked about Brüderschaft St. Christoph, Austria and its history of helping people in and around the Arlberg Pass since the 14th century. The Brüderschaft St. Christoph is still very active - with over ten thousand members - and is still dedicated to helping people in need.

The six friends made a decision to start a similar organization for much the same purpose, sharing in a brotherhood/sisterhood with those who come to Blue River to heli-ski, hike or live. These people obviously share a love of being with friends in the mountains.

The organization is open to men and women; membership is by invitation from a friend who sponsors the potential new member. A special ceremony, which includes our ceremonial sword and a glass of wine with our other Brüder and Schwestern, is held to invite applicants into the Brüderschaft.

Monies collected from an initiation fee of $100 and annual dues of $25 a year or more, stay in the community to assist those in need. The founding members comprise the executive group who have the right of final approval for financial matters, and for prospective members. All members of the Brüderschaft  receive an annual mailing of the membership list.

In 2003 the area was devastated by wildfires raging throughout the North Thompson Valley causing power outages and road closures, which resulted in a decline in tourism.  Despite this adversity, the First Annual Bruderschaft Golf Tournament was held in Clearwater with great success.  Members were represented from Switzerland, Japan and Canada.

Our Vision

• To support each other as friends 
    
• To aim to be of assistance to those in need, both individually and through the Brüderschaft Blue River organization.

Mission Statement

The object of the Brüderschaft is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a worthy enterprize and in particular to encourage and support:

1. The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service
      
2. High ethical standards in business and professions; recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; each member dignifying his occupation as an opportunity to serve society
      
3. Every member to apply to the ideal of service to his or her personal, business and community life
        
4. The advancement of international understanding, good will, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional people united in the ideal of service.