Every summer (July in Austria) kids camps are happening - one big highlight of the year. The main goal is to share God’s love with the kids in many different ways. But it’s not only about the kids who come along to camp. It’s a great way to equip believers to lead others closer to Jesus. 

Prior to camp, we sit down with each leader to look over the goals and vision for the camp. This also sets and clarifies expectations and gives me (Georg) the chance to talk about their faith journey. This gives me insight into where they are currently at spiritually. 

We also hold planning and training sessions to get ready for the program. We use this time to ensure that the leaders are well equipped for the task of leading on camp. We remind the team of the vision and the primary goal of sharing the hope of Christ Jesus. We aim to use this time to create unity within the team and create a sense of togetherness in God’s mission.

During camp, it takes a whole team to execute the planned program. There are whole group teaching times, small groups and activities which include craft and games.  Camp is such a unique context of intense focus of running a program where kids and leaders spend a lot of time together. We see leaders grow personally and spiritually as they rise to the challenges of running such a camp. These challenges include extreme weather conditions, tiredness amongst both leaders and kids as the camp, pressure on team relationships and managing a range of camper behaviours.

Once camp is over and everyone has recovered, the leadership team comes back together 2 months later in September to reflect and debrief. This is a 2 day period of celebration and reflection as we give thanks to God for what he has accomplished in and through the leaders. We count it a privilege to be equipping our fellow Austrians to share the hope of Christ Jesus.

—Georg & Sandra Hammerle, ECMers in Austria