As part of the Christian Youth Development & Empowerment Program (CYDEP), hosted by the Brunstad Christian Church South Africa (BCCSA), a group of 45 participants on the program spent 3 days in September at a camp in the Drakensberg mountains in South Africa. They were accompanied by 19 members of BCCSA who are involved with CYDEP on a daily basis providing training and facilitating their activities such as Bible Studies, church services, sport, choir, media and so on.
The camp program included team building activities and other recreational activities such as volleyball, hiking, swimming, ziplining and archery. There was also time for fellowship at mealtimes and around the campfires on the Friday evening.
The underlying spiritual message of the camp was one of “serving others and doing the good”. This message was carried through to the special dinner held on the Saturday night and centred around Bible verse Rev 20:12, in the Book of Revelations, about the “Book of Life”. In daily life everyone is “writing the story of their lives” which will one day be judged. Sighting various other Bible verses, the speaker at the dinner encouraged everyone present to take heed to what roll these verses are playing in their lives.
After the camp, participants were asked the following questions:
- What did the camp mean to you?
- What did you enjoy the most?
- What did you learn on the trip?
- How is this experience valuable for your life?
Below are several testimonies in answer to the questions.
Chisomo (Malawi):
“The trip meant a lot to me, and it was inspiring to see how everyone, young and old, were very willing to help where help was needed. This encouraged me to be in the same spirit to serve others. I enjoyed the Bible study and fellowship that we had every evening, just being together singing and hearing God’s Word was very special for me. The important thing I learned on this trip was that I need to have a direct connection with Jesus Christ and to live only for Him. I have decided to do this with all my heart. What I experienced on the trip that is valuable for my life is to serve others willingly, like the examples I saw around me. It was something I really took to heart.”
Nicole (Cameroon):
“This trip was a way for me to spend time with those in the same spirit and to share unforgettable fellowship. I enjoyed all the activities. The best part was on the Saturday night dinner when everyone could give their testimonies and take to heart the message to love everyone just as they are. A valuable lesson for my life was that I learned to love, understand and support others.”
Daniel (Nigeria):
“This trip away was very meaningful for me because it created an opportunity to step outside my normal routine, connect with others in a deeper way and experience personal growth through fellowship and shared activities. It was not only a recreational break, but also a chance to strengthen relationships and reflect on the importance of teamwork, faith and unity. I enjoyed the hiking and outdoor activities the most. Being surrounded by nature and taking on physical challenges with my peers brought joy and a sense of accomplishment. I also enjoyed the group meals and times of fellowship. On this trip I learned the importance of patience, communication and collaboration. The Bible study on Saturday night had a powerful impact on me. Listening to the others’ testimonies strengthened and inspired spiritually and reminded me that growth is deeply rooted in faith and devotion to God. The lessons of teamwork, resilience and shared joy will continue to guide me, but most importantly the spiritual experiences I had during the trip will continue to encourage me to walk closely with God in every aspect of my life.”
Elizabeth (Tanzania):
“The CYDEP trip was very good for me. It allowed me to experience new adventures and fellowship with others. What I enjoyed most was the Bible study, all the recreational games and the food was good. I learned that even with many activities, it is possible to rest and still enjoy fellowship with others who you are not familiar with. This experience will always be meaningful to me.
