The sun rose over the Mid-North Coast of NSW, its rays glinting off the waves as youth from across the region gathered for a weekend of fun, fellowship, and faith. For both leaders and campers, this weekend was more than just a getaway—it was a transformative experience where faith was challenged and deepened. The 2024 Mid-North Coast PY Camp was the first of what we hope to be many more camps in this region.
The year’s theme, “Living on the Edge,” brought the Book of Deuteronomy to life through four powerful talks. Campers explored how God’s people in the Old Testament stood on the edge of the Promised Land for the second time. Unlike their first attempt, they were now called to live as God’s people—trusting and obeying him to enjoy a life of blessing in the land. The talks bridged this story to the present day, reminding everyone that those who trust in Jesus and live as his people can look forward to their own Promised Land—the New Creation.
- Talk 1: Trusting God in this Journey Called Life
- Talk 2: Living on the Edge (of our Promised Land)
- Talk 3: Two Very Different Ways to Live
- Talk 4: Choose Life (trust and obey Jesus!)
For Olivia, a leader at the camp, the weekend was a chance to invest in the next generation of Christians. “Leading at camp was enjoyable and worthwhile,” she reflected. Her weekend was filled with leading Bible studies, supervising activities, and connecting with the youth. “I loved helping create a space where teens could step away from their everyday routines and focus on the Lord.” Olivia remembered how youth camps shaped her own faith as a teenager and was excited to pass on the same encouragement.
Theo, a 16-year-old camper, echoed Olivia’s sentiments. “I enjoyed gathering in fellowship with like-minded young people to hear the gospel explained,” he shared. Exploring Deuteronomy helped him see how God works through all situations. “It was comforting to hear how God works through all situations—our God is the living God. I also learned how everything in the Old Testament points to Jesus and what he accomplished at the cross.”
The camp’s relaxed pace, combined with its stunning location, provided a perfect setting for spiritual growth and fun. A short walk led to the beach, offering moments of refreshment and connection, while the wide oval became a hub for games and laughter. As Olivia observed, “It’s a more relaxed pace than on a Friday night, giving the group more time in the Bible and in conversation.”
Olivia marveled at the youth’s insightful contributions during Bible discussions, and hearing their testimonies deeply encouraged her. “Just having youth attend was a testament to the Lord’s work in their hearts,” she said.
For Theo, the camp wasn’t just about personal growth—it was also a reminder of the wider family of Christians that he is part of. “It was a great place to hang out with friends and hear about our great God,” he said. Meeting peers from other youth groups reinforced that following Jesus is a shared journey, uniting young people across the region.
Both Olivia and Theo agreed: Mid-North Coast PY Camp was great! A great weekend of deepening relationships, exploring God’s Word, and experiencing his love in a tangible way.
Join us in thanking God for this great camp, the leaders and volunteers that served, and the lives of young people that were challenged to consider the difference that Jesus makes to their lives.
