WINTER CAMP 2011

By Johanna

Gladiators, mountains of food, and epic God times...

Nexwave is back in the office this week, now bruised, exhausted. But filled with a passion from God. That can only mean one thing: Winter Camp. June 11-15th saw 27 intrepid staff and 80 dynamic campers head out to Forest Edge camp site in Waroona for a week of adventure. Many newbies stepping out to experience Winter Camp for the first time.

Winter Camp is renowned for many things. Two of them being mountains of food and games which could warrant a trip to the Emergency Room afterwards – or at least get you covered in gunk. Not wanting to break from tradition, this year’s camp was quick to provide both (minus to a trip to the ER, we do play it safe). The unofficial theme of the games was “Gladiator Style”. Eight teams went to battle using everything from pugle sticks to dodge balls. In the end, teamwork and strength were the keys that led The Chosen Wolves, the winning team, to victory.

Thursday night was anything but traditional. The hall was divided into sections akin to different rooms in a house, progressing towards the "Father’s Place." God's presence could be seen as young people started moving through the rooms addressing issues of identity and pain. God spoke to the teenagers long in to the night. Then, in a beautiful step away from the ordinary, campers began praying for one another, which for many became the most impacting moment at this camp.

Winter Camp 2011 showed us that God truly is the Source of all things, and that His father-like heart encompasses all. We can hardly wait to see what aspect of His character He teaches us next year.

Winter Camp 2012: Let the countdown begin.