Why Don't You?
- Why Don't You Talk About The Sermon? (1)
- Go on a short-term mission trip? (2)
- Serve On A Camp (3)
- Why don't you practise hospitality? (5)
- Why Don't You Sing Carols? (6)
When I was asked to write this article about why it is so good to serve as a camp officer, my initial thought was that it would be difficult to sum up in just 600 words! Nevertheless, here are some reasons why being a camp officer is simply fantastic.
What an opportunity!
Camps present a fantastic opportunity to serve our young people and our God. Our young people are growing up in a western society that is increasingly ex-Christian, one that continually encourages them to carve out an identity and existence that simply does not involve God. They are growing up in school and social settings where belief in God can lead to being marginalised and made fun of. This is why camps are more important now than ever before. Through a powerful combination of preaching (that officers also enjoy), Bible study (led by officers) and relationship building (in which officers are instrumental), campers are prepared for life in the real world and strengthened in their walk with the Lord (Col. 2:7).
Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly clear in our society that true happiness is proving to be elusive, because it can only be found with Jesus. Camp provides a unique opportunity for officers to show young people, and indeed experience for themselves, that life with Jesus and all he offers is better. Jesus tells us he has come that we may have life and have it to the full (John 10:10). Camp provides a snapshot of how that can look for campers and officers alike, an environment shared with joy-filled brothers and sisters worshipping their Saviour. It is, in many ways, a taster of what heaven will be like.
What a week!
The week of camp is just incredible. It is essentially a Christian holiday with a purpose, a week where enjoyment is top of the agenda. However, that is not to say laziness or idleness reign. Throughout the week officers engage in crucial and rewarding work (both spiritually and practically, running a wide range of activities), often gathering ‘tired in a good way’ at the end of the day while reflecting on the many blessings experienced.
All of the different venues used for camps are in beautiful areas, from the rolling hills of Mid-Wales surrounding Pentrenant Hall to Woodcroft Centre in beautiful Chepstow, or the lakes and mountains of Snowdonia near Bryn y groes not to mention the superb coastal sites used for outdoor camps. Officers then spend the week incredibly well-fed by wonderful cooks, enjoying sweet fellowship and friendship with their team.
Typical activities include swimming, quizzes, team games, walks, competitions, sports, crafts and music. Usually there are adventure activities like laser-tag, archery, climbing, gorge walking or water sports as well as visits to the beach, adventure parks and the shops. Whether you are someone who likes to chill or get into the thick of the action, the week is always tremendous fun and provides a vibrant social environment.
What a God!
Above all, camp is a wonderful chance to see our awesome God work in an incredibly powerful way. Those who have been officers will undoubtedly tell stories of God changing and transforming young lives, saving souls to himself and building his people up in their faith. Our prayer should be that God would continue to use camps wonderfully for the furthering of his kingdom and being an officer is both an exciting and humbling opportunity to be a part of this. Why not get involved?
