Fellowship Camp this year was quite different from normal. We called it “a minimalist approach” There were still many opportunities for fellowship, learning, and growing together, as well as time for fun, relaxation, and enjoying God’s creation together. It’s a blessing each easter weekend to gather as a presbytery to ‘get away’ from normal routines, for a weekend together.
One of my favourite things about our camp is the setting. We’re in the bush in the beautiful Yarra Valley. Surrounded by trees, and the sounds of birds, plenty of outdoor space for play, conversation, and just being in nature. It really is my favourite place in the world. But the other thing that makes it so special is being there with people. I love seeing my children playing alongside other children, or interacting with grown-ups. I love sitting on the bench outside the hall and talking with others while we watch all that’s going on. I love singing psalms together, and spending time in worship. And I love the opportunities to catch up, meet new people, and have ongoing conversations with others.
There were board games involving people of all ages, bigger kids looking after the littles, and people sharing meals together.
This year there were a few spontaneous opportunities to join in with:
- RP Global Missions live presentation
- A bush walk in the nearby rain forest
- Skipping competition
- Family worship together after dinner, led by Alastair McEwen
- A bonfire complete with marshmallows and good conversations
- Psalm sing together
We also enjoyed worship together on the Lord’s Day, sitting under Rev. Kamran Nazir’spreaching. It was such a good reminder of how Boaz, the kindsman redeemer points to the better Redeemer, Christ.
Even with little organization, the time together was such a blessing and refreshing time to be together as a denomination.
Enjoy some of the psalm singing here
Thanks to Maria Pockras for putting together this article, and for many members sharing photos. Maria is maried to Nathaniel, and spends most of her days at home with their two girls Mabel and Lucilla. The Pockrases are members in McKinnon.
