Summer Sanctuary 2022 - what a dream it was!
At the end of July our Kerith Youth ministry took around 55 teenagers to Oakwood Residential Centre for a weekend away. The weekend’s theme was the ‘Paradox of Jesus’. Throughout the evening and morning sessions we were looking at how Jesus was and is two opposite things at the same time. We started off the weekend with a bonfire reflecting on ‘Who is Jesus?’, followed by some very loud and crazy night-games!
Saturday morning, we carried on looking at the paradox of Jesus, learning about how Jesus is servant and king from our Bracknell Youth Coordinator Bryn McGlashan, as well as having a time of worship. The youth really love the song ‘I thank God’ by Maverick City Music! We also did some of the Oakwood activities including high ropes, Jacob’s ladder and archery. Even some of the leaders took part (some were more reluctant to do the high ropes than others, but we won’t name names!).
Later on, we gathered for worship and continued our journey learning about the paradox of Jesus. The paradox of this evening was about how Jesus is full of both grace and truth. In response to the preach from our Youth Champion Jo Phillips, we created a space for young people to let go of shame and ask for forgiveness from God. About 50 teenagers responded and were on their knee’s crying out to God, it was a beautiful time soaking in His presence.
Sunday morning, God broke out again and did His work! Jo Foster, our Windsor Families Coordinator, brought us a word about ‘What’s next?’. The beauty of a weekend away is that it is like 6 months of youth ministry, but how do you carry on being in the presence of God once you leave that intentional space? Jo created a space for us to listen to the voice of God and encourage one another.
And there was no other way to finish Summer Sanctuary than by doing the classic slip n slide rounders! Although it very much turned into a massive water fight with EVERYONE getting wet! Such a spirit filled and fun weekend!
Here are some highlights and reflections shared by Bethany, a young person who attended Summer Sanctuary:
“Summer Sanctuary was the best weekend away with friends. We had moments of laughter, moments of tears and so much more. I was so grateful for the opportunity to go. A highlight for me was the bonfire, it was such a quiet time and I especially loved the first night when we all sang around the fire. The fire also allowed for some openness, we had some deep and meaningful conversations. Another almost obvious highlight was worship because being able to sing from the top of my lungs praising God with all my close friends who had become even closer during the weekend created bonds and memories I will forever hold in my heart. During the time away I believe that God gave me a lot to think about and work on in my life and although the weekend came to an end, I am still able to continue to follow God's instructions in my life by removing distractions and taking time out of my day to listen to and worship God.”
We’re already planning Summer Sanctuary 2023! Save the dates now - Friday 28th - Sunday 30th July at Oakwood. Further details to follow.