"Although it was a potential recipe for disaster, it was one of the greatest Easter Camps I have ever attended."

This year, the youth groups of St Barnabas in Fendalton and St Timothy's in Burnside combined for Easter Camp. This extended to several youths from the West Coast. Although such a mixed combination along with the danger of Covid cancelling the event was a potential recipe for disaster, it was one of the greatest Easter Camps I have ever attended. The feedback from youth and leaders was overwhelmingly positive as connections were formed between them and with God.

Our time together began on the Wednesday. Older youths and leaders filled a truck with furniture, supplies and snacks for the long weekend. We spent much of that evening transforming our marquee into a homely space complete with fairy lights, couches, bean bags and fridge. The only thing missing was a kitchen sink!

Over the weekend, there were regular worship sets and talks at the Big Top. This massive tent-like structure housed thousands of youths from all over the South Island. After the Big Top sessions, we'd break into small groups to discuss the talk. For many, this was also a highlight in which thoughts could be shared without judgement and to discuss things that 'really matter'.

The weekend also had many moments of down time to explore or be one as a community. There were card and board games played in the marque, inter-parish games of volleyball with Bishop Peter Carrell, Diocesan-wide Night Prayers as well as a few who 'closed their eyes' on the couches to make up for talking to their fellow campers for half the night.

A favourite moment of mine was the second night of Easter Camp. Typically, most youth want to leave the compulsory meeting as soon as possible to explore the nightlife. However, seven of our youth and two leaders decided to stay for almost an hour later to pray and worship. One leader from St Barnabas Fendalton encountered the Holy Spirit for the first time and the youth all wanted to make commitments to God. Two nights later, one youth went from hating the compulsory Big Top meetings to wanting to follow Jesus.

By Sunday, it was finally time for us to explore the Nightlife because every other night we had been busy praying with youth!

Nathan Muirhead
Youth Minister

"I found Easter Camp provided a great way to deepen and strengthen friendships but also my relationship with God. I loved the atmosphere around camp. Easter Camp was so much fun and I loved it!" - Evie

"Easter Camp was a super enjoyable time for me. I especially liked the community we had established between the youth groups which allowed for great discussions and conversations with youth, camp parents, and leaders. Alongside just general good times in the marquee playing board games and hanging out, I also really enjoyed the atmosphere in the Anglican party central area, allowing us to reconnect with others, as well as meet and get to know new youth, play volleyball and come together for night prayer." - Flo