Church Camps - Fun & Fruitful
HVMC held two camps at the end of 2022, one in November for children, and one in December for the youth.
The Children’s Camp saw 32 children, of which nine were invited guests, helped by eight adults and 12 youths. The stayover camp for youths attracted 25 people. Here, Ezrela Chao, a volunteer helper, and Eliza Tan share their camp experiences…
Children's Camp was held from 24 to 26 November, and was a blessing for me, and for all who attended it. I was filled with joy to see all the kids enjoying themselves, whether it be working with crafts, eating together, playing games or doing lessons. As part of the crafts team, it was really fun helping the children, while getting to know them. And when we were not on duty, we spent time talking and getting to know each other better. By the end of the camp, I had grown closer to many of the children and all the volunteers; I am so happy and grateful for the many memories we made. Thank you to everyone who organised and helped at the camp!
Ezrela Chao
Youth Camp 2022 was a blast for all campers! It was held from 15 to 17 December. Being in my first year as a member of HVMC, the camp was an especially exciting milestone for me, and I was also pleased with how smoothly it went.
We started off this exciting adventure with icebreakers and games - ‘Fact Checking’, ‘Listen to Me’, ‘Opposite Volleyball’ and even an intense game of Dodgeball! Well, that was of course after going through some essential camp rules. Starting off with a bang, these games solidified the bonds of each camp team.
After the lively games, we settled down together for a time of worship. Pastor Henry Yeo from St James’ Church took us through the subject of “Our Relationships - God, Friends and Community” - for all three days of the camp. I found the first session, ‘Relationship with God’, especially inspirational as it was something I had yearned to look into. It taught us how to deepen our relationship with God and be transformed - by seeking God first and serving Him.
My favourite activity of Youth Camp 2022 was the ‘prayer stations’. Prior to the camp, our ‘prayer parents’ prayed over each of our names individually, coming up with one word that God wanted to tell us. After receiving our personally curated cards, we headed to the different booths to pray and spend time with God. Of all the booths, The “Sting of Pearls” booth stuck out the most for me. Pearls are born out of hurt and discomfort, yet they can become such a beautiful phenomenon loved by many. I can relate to the pearl, and it’s a timely reminder that God can turn suffering and hurt into something beautiful for His glory.
The three days passed quickly and left me feeling fulfilled. Bonds created from the sleepover with my camp mates will last forever. I’m really happy and grateful to have spent time with the youth at HVMC and savour all the delicious food provided. I am certainly looking forward to the next Youth Camp.
Eliza Tan
