2024 Camp Report: British Isles
A successful week of camp was held for family of all ages in West Sussex, England.
Camp was held at Dalesdown in West Sussex from Aug. 4-11. The spacious central building allowed us to to unite in study, join for mealtimes and engage in pool, ping pong and many other activities. A separate sports hall and art room facilitated sports games and creative sessions, as well as valuable spiritual conversation. Fields containing a football pitch and a volleyball court were a focal point for competition between both adults and kids alike! The children stayed in bell tents which seemed to be the highlight for many in reconnecting after a year apart.
Support from adults including parents, grandparents and nine young leaders all contributed to a thriving environment for the 49 campers (aged 3-18) to learn and grow. We were joined by brethren from England, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, Australia and the United States, which brought our grand total to 98 members. We welcomed guests from congregations around the country to share in the Sabbath service and special music brought to us by the children’s choir.
After breakfast each morning, David Elliot led a “thought of the day” followed by discussion groups. We then had age-related activity sessions, each led by an adult organizer and supported by the young leaders. Onsite activities included a summer fair featuring a very popular bouncy castle obstacle course, a multitude of sports games, arts and craft workshops, kite-making, music sessions, speed-puzzling, a karaoke evening and a rather rousing quiz!
The first of the offsite activities saw children and adults alike monkeying around in the high-ropes at the “Out of Bounds” adventure course—with a competitive side of bowling. The latter part of the day was spent at Littlehampton Beach where group ball activities commenced, ice creams were eaten, and the brave even had a dip in the sea!
The second day out was spent paddle boarding and raft-building, which put teamwork skills to the test and succeeded in drawing out the adventurous spirit in all. The adults who volunteered as kitchen staff lovingly prepared sandwiches for the slightly soggy group, who enjoyed them by the lake.
On two occasions we shared an evening campfire and hymn sing—children kept calling for “one more hymn!” What a privilege to share in such enthusiasm for praise!
Strikingly apparent this year was the resounding spirit of unity among all age groups. Support, advice and encouragement were central to discussions about God, His way and His calling. Many poignant talks were held for the older teens, which benefited the adults who attended just as deeply.
The kitchen staff deserve a special mention as they worked tirelessly each day to provide wholesome and varied meals; from everyone at camp, we express our gratitude. A massive thank you is due to all the adults, parents and grandparents who volunteered their time and efforts in preparing such an inclusive space for joy that we were all so blessed to partake in.
