Kids get it together

Wedderburn Christian Campsite reverberated with the shouts and laughter of 154 children and leaders on the weekend of March 13-14.

Nine different church groups gathered at Kids’ Camp Out (KCO) to explore the theme Piecing it Together.

Children and adults from a variety of cultures experienced large group worship, small group prayer and reflection, drama, music, crafts, puzzles and other activities, including orienteering and swimming — in addition to the fun of camping out under the stars.

As the children reflected on what it meant to be kind and compassionate, many expressed their desire to “help someone, even if everyone makes fun of you” or “pray for someone who is sad”.

They came up with practical ways like “help my brother do his homework”, “make Mum a cup of tea”, “play with people who have no friends” and “help people who are getting bullied”.

As few churches have a large children’s group, KCO is a wonderful opportunity for children (and their leaders) to experience worship within a Christian peer group and be immersed in Bible teaching, fun and games in a peaceful, traffic-free bush setting.

Children have time and space to ask questions and be listened to and nurtured in faith. And, of course, everyone loves the loud and active worship songs and sings with enthusiasm.

There were 24 junior leaders at KCO 2010 who provided valued leadership and support for the younger children and assisted the adult leaders. Rob Hanks from the Youth Unit ran a special late night program on Saturday to encourage the junior leaders in their faith journey.

Ashleigh Rendell coordinated KCO, West Ryde’s Wes Champion and team provided a game-show skit and craft workshop and North Rocks Uniting Church brought the band.

Christine Bayliss-Kelly provided pastoral care and first aid as well as a Bible quiz.
The entire Uniting Church in New South Wales and the ACT is blessed by the ripples of energy from this annual event, where children can learn to love God and love others.

Judyth Roberts is Children and Family Ministry Consultant with the Board of Education.