Zalissya, 2012
“What are your relationships with your parents?” The minister’s son replied, “Formal…,” – and then he rose and left, no longer willing to participate in this discussion.
Not only the world, but the church as well experiences the crisis of real fatherhood today. A crack in the relationships with loved ones is not the only problem that people face. This summer, the Association of the Biblical and Missionary Churches of Ukraine (ABMCU) ran a spiritual and outreach camp in the camp complex in the forest in Zalissya, Zdolbuniv district, Rivne region. About 120 young people from 4 different countries (Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, and USA) had an opportunity to rest from the city rush and plunge into God’s Word.
Every day, relevant themes of a Christian’s and general person’s practical life were discussed. Besides obedience to ones parents, laziness and fanaticism, with which modern youth are absorbed, were discussed. Moreover, the topics of grace which changes the person, life with Christ, worship, and Corban (that is, devoted to God) were examined.
It was clear that, God was working in people’s hearts. After several camp days, some campers became softer and more receptive to the Word. Others came and asked about the Gospel and how they should live. There were those who decided to build their relationships with their parents, to pass from formal to friendly relations. They want to change their “freedom” status and become accountable and start helping their parents.
A young brother once shared, “Every time, this camp has a big influence on me; it cleanses my heart, and corrects it.” Another said, “I have never seen that young people pray in such simplicity and before different activities, and that God’s Word sounds so deep.” A third one said that he feels at home at camp, because he lives with unbelieving relatives.
The athletic, energetic, smart participants were able to play volleyball, basketball, soccer, table tennis, different intellectual games, soak in a small pool, go through different obstacles, participate in “Capture the Flag” and “Blind Soccer”, and play other games.
God is strong and merciful! Praise to Him for not only this camp, which He blessed to go well, but because of the learned truths through which God strengthens our hope and faith. He always does everything well.
