Champfleuri was an awesome experience for me and I saw God in the relationship's that I formed with the French (and Belgians). At camp I became closest to M. He was from Belgium and was a fairly fluent English speaker. I sat at the same table as him for some of the first meals we had at camp so it did not take long to get past the basic intro questions and to get into the questions that went in depth. During the hike up to the campsite on top of the mountain M and I got to talk about what we wanted to do in our future's and how we both have had to put our faith in God by trusting the career path's he has chosen for us. We both shared a common interest in serving in the military so that gave us another subject to talk about and how we both have to trust in God to watch over us as we serve our countries. For the long bus ride to the ropes course and campsite we both talked about the fellowship we have in school and how it is a small percentage of the student body that is Christian. Belgium, like France, is only about 2% Christian so finding fellowship in school for M is even harder. This really gave me an appreciation for the relationships I have with people my age at school and through the youth group. Another thing we talked about on the bus ride was country music. M had never heard it before but loved it when I played it for him. I have kept in contact with M since camp ended and he has said that there is a possibility of him coming over to Philadelphia so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
It was a blessing to have the opportunity to go to Champfleuri and spread the word the of God and to build relationship's that will last longer than the two and a half weeks we were at camp. One of the biggest things I wanted to have happen was to have no regrets of missing a chance to talk to someone or a chance to build a friendship. I can happily say that there is nothing that I can think of that I wish I would have done when it comes to relationships with the campers. Thank you to everyone who helped make this trip possible and for all of the prayer we received because France and Belgium are countries that are in huge need of outreach. I was truly blessed to be a servant for Christ during this trip and hopefully will be able to be a better one at school.
God Bless,
Jeremy Holland
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Sunday, August 5, 2012
TED Experience (Kari)
Our time at Champfleuri was
awesome! While at camp I met F. She was
really sweet and spoke English well.
When I met her on the first day I had a feeling that I’m going to get
really close to her. Just by talking to her for about five minutes I could see
the similarities in our personality. Later in the week, we were on a two hour
bus ride to one of the highest ropes courses in France. I sat with F, and as we
started to talk we both shared some of our testimony and how God has been
working our life and what He has been teaching us. We both shared what we
struggle within our walk, and started to encourage one another. She was so nice and she said that it was
great to come to this camp and have people around her that believe the same
things that she believes and she can talk openly about it with them. This camp
had really impacted her and gave her the fellowship with some Christian
friends, which was really cool to hear.
During the two weeks at Champfleuri
God had been working in me, especially with being intentional. Earlier at home
I was only intentional because I thought that it was the right thing to do. I was
not intentional because of love, which is what I should have been doing. While at camp God really convicted me of how I
was not being intentional out of love towards the girls the first couple days
and how I was only being intentional because it was encouraged. Later God showed
me that I should be intentional out of love and show the other girls His love
through me. It was great learning that now because I can take that with me and
be intentional with my friends in school, to show them God’s love for them.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Champfleuri 2012 (Liz)
God was definitely at work during Champfleuri this year! It differed from my experience in 2010 because I felt like there were more campers who classified them selves as Christians, which was exciting, but after talking with a few girls I got the sense that their religion didn't result in a different lifestyle expressing a relationship with Christ, but it was more of just a religion that they claimed to be part of. On the hike we slept out under the stars overnight, and it was while we were scrunched on top of each other on a small tarp that God gave me the opportunity to talk with A, and encourage her in her walk with Christ. She was struggling greatly with family issues, and when I encouraged her to pray about it, she didn't really understand how she was to pray. God used this opportunity for me to talk about prayer with her and to pray side by side with her about her family struggle. The large group meeting previously that day was focused on suffering, and at night we were also able to talk about how the talk had a great impact on her which led into conversation on how what was said upfront applies to her life. God really opened her heart to talk to me that night, and I am very thankful that God used me to help encourage a sister in Christ.
On a more personal note, I felt that God was also at work in me during TED. The night before the campers arrived I became very nervous about meeting all these new campers and battling through the language barrier. The next morning I could tell that God had eased my fears, and that everything was going to be okay. As the campers arrived I, by the grace of God, was able to step out of my comfort zone and get to know many of the french campers. God helped me to understand during the two weeks of TED that I wasn't just serving others and stepping out of my comfort zone in order to be the ideal 'intentional camper', but rather it was for the ultimate purpose of furthuring God's kingdom through truly loving the other (in Corey's words :)), and in my case encouraging them in the name of Christ as they faced the struggles of life. Thank you all for your prayers, they were greatly appreciated!
On a more personal note, I felt that God was also at work in me during TED. The night before the campers arrived I became very nervous about meeting all these new campers and battling through the language barrier. The next morning I could tell that God had eased my fears, and that everything was going to be okay. As the campers arrived I, by the grace of God, was able to step out of my comfort zone and get to know many of the french campers. God helped me to understand during the two weeks of TED that I wasn't just serving others and stepping out of my comfort zone in order to be the ideal 'intentional camper', but rather it was for the ultimate purpose of furthuring God's kingdom through truly loving the other (in Corey's words :)), and in my case encouraging them in the name of Christ as they faced the struggles of life. Thank you all for your prayers, they were greatly appreciated!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
My Champfleuri Experience (Graham)
During my two weeks in France I grew close to a couple of other guys. One was in my small group, who I will refer to as B. I really started talking to him after he read his testimony in front of the whole group in the grange (or our meeting area). He talked about the death of his sister and how deeply it affected him, specifically his grades. It was a depressing story, but through all his struggles B managed to find God at work. After his testimony, I began talking to B more regularly. About his church, his faith, and above all offering my time should he ever need to talk to someone for support. It was a sad goodbye when he parted two weeks ago, and sadly B does not have a Facebook.
Another camper I grew close to I will refer to as P. P spoke perfectly English so his interest in the camp wasn't about learning the language, but growing closer in his faith. I gave P my copy of Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis during the camp and asked him to read what he could in hopes that we would be able to discuss it later on. We finally had a chance to when the camp took a field trip to the largest high ropes course in France, which was about an hour and half away. During the trip we discussed the first half of the book; my mission through the book discussion was to try and bring P a step forward with his faith, where he would start baring witness to others and teach others of Christ. And while I believe I made significant steps forward with P, I also spent a lot of time offering support for problems in his life that he shared with me.
Part of my job at Champfleuri was to bring others further in their faith, but during my time there I found myself also helping the spiritually-wounded. This I believe will stick with them more than anything. At camp, all the campers developed a passion for one of the worship songs called Shelter by Jars of Clay. If you haven't heard the song, I strongly suggest you listen to it. The song gave us the push to support and help one another in our faith, to bare our sins and struggles onto each other so that we may be cleansed by Jesus. A verse I always keep in mind surrounding this experience comes from James 5:16: Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
I will always remember the lessons I learned at Champfleuri and carry them with me to college next year. I hope to return again at some point.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Camp experience (Corey)
In my last Champfleuri blog (sad face) I'm going to briefly talk about a friendship I formed with a girl whose initial is M and a cool lesson that God taught me.
M was in my small group so we saw each other daily, but I hadn't talked to her too much by the third day of camp. After cabin clean up and before small groups on the third full day, some French campers were playing knockout on the bball court. I joined them, but got eliminated rather quickly thanks to my lack of basketball skills. After I got out, I starting talking to M. I asked how big her church was and she said about 100 people, which is pretty big for France, she told me. Through the flow of conversation I learned that English missionaries circulated frequently through her church, so she knew people who were sent to Africa, Spain, and other parts of France. I also learned that she was baptized 3 years ago, and her brother just this past year. That was the coolest thing to me, that she, in her faith and through God, could have such an effect on her brother. Although she, her mom, and her brother are the only Christians in her family of six, she clearly is living her life for God, and I loved getting to know her more as camp continued.
God really humbled me at the "non-musical night of worship" this year. In the middle of it, I all of a sudden realized how small I am in comparison to God and His power. As hokey as it sounds, it felt like I had a sudden epiphany. God is so huge and in control of everything, I think it's crazy that all He desires from me is that I love Him and live to honor Him. It's all I can do, but that's enough for Him! How awesome is that?! It was a lesson of love and one that I will never forget.
Camp TED was amazing and life-changing this year. I am so so thankful to have had this opportunity a second time and to have had so much support from our church family! Thank you to everyone who supported and prayed for our team, both from GVPC and elsewhere.
--Corey
M was in my small group so we saw each other daily, but I hadn't talked to her too much by the third day of camp. After cabin clean up and before small groups on the third full day, some French campers were playing knockout on the bball court. I joined them, but got eliminated rather quickly thanks to my lack of basketball skills. After I got out, I starting talking to M. I asked how big her church was and she said about 100 people, which is pretty big for France, she told me. Through the flow of conversation I learned that English missionaries circulated frequently through her church, so she knew people who were sent to Africa, Spain, and other parts of France. I also learned that she was baptized 3 years ago, and her brother just this past year. That was the coolest thing to me, that she, in her faith and through God, could have such an effect on her brother. Although she, her mom, and her brother are the only Christians in her family of six, she clearly is living her life for God, and I loved getting to know her more as camp continued.
God really humbled me at the "non-musical night of worship" this year. In the middle of it, I all of a sudden realized how small I am in comparison to God and His power. As hokey as it sounds, it felt like I had a sudden epiphany. God is so huge and in control of everything, I think it's crazy that all He desires from me is that I love Him and live to honor Him. It's all I can do, but that's enough for Him! How awesome is that?! It was a lesson of love and one that I will never forget.
Camp TED was amazing and life-changing this year. I am so so thankful to have had this opportunity a second time and to have had so much support from our church family! Thank you to everyone who supported and prayed for our team, both from GVPC and elsewhere.
--Corey
Friday, July 20, 2012
Hello Home Team! -
Well, our Champfleuri 2012 trip has now ended in terms of physical location ... we're home! But there is much in the way of processing going on ... for French campers (Facebook friend requests are flying!) and American campers all the same. This year, I would say that I saw as much growth in our team as I did in some French campers ... all in the direction of becoming disciples/apprentices of Christ Jesus.
I have asked that each member of the Champfleuri Team blog in the next few days about:
1. One relationship that was formed (they will only be using first initials for safety purposes) and the worth of that relationship.
2. One piece of learning that they came away with.
As always, we will be presenting snapshots from the trip on a Sunday night in September (I believe Sunday night, September 30th) ... so mark your calendars!
I will be back in about 2 weeks with a wrap up blog as well ... much to reflect on and gain perspective (where could I/we see God at work).
Thank you for tremendous prayer and financial support. May our students and our many French friends be considering God's work in their lives!
Blessings,
Jim Shack
Well, our Champfleuri 2012 trip has now ended in terms of physical location ... we're home! But there is much in the way of processing going on ... for French campers (Facebook friend requests are flying!) and American campers all the same. This year, I would say that I saw as much growth in our team as I did in some French campers ... all in the direction of becoming disciples/apprentices of Christ Jesus.
I have asked that each member of the Champfleuri Team blog in the next few days about:
1. One relationship that was formed (they will only be using first initials for safety purposes) and the worth of that relationship.
2. One piece of learning that they came away with.
As always, we will be presenting snapshots from the trip on a Sunday night in September (I believe Sunday night, September 30th) ... so mark your calendars!
I will be back in about 2 weeks with a wrap up blog as well ... much to reflect on and gain perspective (where could I/we see God at work).
Thank you for tremendous prayer and financial support. May our students and our many French friends be considering God's work in their lives!
Blessings,
Jim Shack
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
10 minutes to blog (graham)
Well we don't like it, but the end has come.
All the French campers are gone and, as always, the Philly team is the awkward stragglers.
To give a quick overview of the next couple days, we will be leaving Champfleuri for Grenoble. Then from Grenoble, we catch a train for Lyon. Tonight we will be staying at a church in Lyon and grabbing dinner with Cecile (a counselor and good friend to the group, who also blogged). Then tomorrow morning we will be grabbing a train from Lyon to Annecy (thank you Marie for spell-check). In Annecy we will be touring the town and lake with Emily, Tibo, and Juliette (other counselors of Champfleuri) and Elodie's brother. We are super-excited for this not only because it will be our last day in France but Annecy is also one of the most beautiful lake-areas in Europe. After the day has come to a close, we will be taking the train back to Lyon and staying at the church again. Then at 4:30 AM Thursday morning, we will be waking up and going to Lyon's airport to catch a flight to Heathrow in London. The group will have a 4-hour layover there before we catch our next flight back to Philly. We estimate that our arrival time at the church will be about 6 pm.
To all that miss us, we will be home soon. This will most likely be our last blog post as we aren't sure if we will have wifi-access in Lyon or Annecy.
This is Graham Davis signing off..
Good night, and good luck.
All the French campers are gone and, as always, the Philly team is the awkward stragglers.
To give a quick overview of the next couple days, we will be leaving Champfleuri for Grenoble. Then from Grenoble, we catch a train for Lyon. Tonight we will be staying at a church in Lyon and grabbing dinner with Cecile (a counselor and good friend to the group, who also blogged). Then tomorrow morning we will be grabbing a train from Lyon to Annecy (thank you Marie for spell-check). In Annecy we will be touring the town and lake with Emily, Tibo, and Juliette (other counselors of Champfleuri) and Elodie's brother. We are super-excited for this not only because it will be our last day in France but Annecy is also one of the most beautiful lake-areas in Europe. After the day has come to a close, we will be taking the train back to Lyon and staying at the church again. Then at 4:30 AM Thursday morning, we will be waking up and going to Lyon's airport to catch a flight to Heathrow in London. The group will have a 4-hour layover there before we catch our next flight back to Philly. We estimate that our arrival time at the church will be about 6 pm.
To all that miss us, we will be home soon. This will most likely be our last blog post as we aren't sure if we will have wifi-access in Lyon or Annecy.
This is Graham Davis signing off..
Good night, and good luck.
Non-musical Night of Worship - Camp is over :(
Two nights ago, we had a non-musical night of worship. We realized that no one had even talked about it so I suppose that's exactly what I will do. So after watching the movie, the counselors set up several stations throughout Le Grange (kind of our meeting place). Overall, the activity was a calm, yet powerful, night of prayer and meditation. The stations allowed us to connect with God in different ways. For example: there was a basket that was filled with different verses. We picked a random verse and then meditated on it. My verse was Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight." Not only was this about the third time I had heard that passage this week but it was also the verse I was given when I was baptized. I have always had some problems with anxiety. Through this verse, God has been constantly hammering away at me to understand to just trust in him and he will make my path straight. Throughout the night, you could feel God's spirit at work throughout the room. Many tears of joy were shed during this activity. In summary, the non-musical night of worship was definitely a game-changer for a lot of people. Thank you all for your constant prayers, they truly have made a difference. Camp is officially over at this time so all the French campers have left for their homes. I think someone else is going to fill you in with extra details about the next two days. Please keep the prayers coming; we're not home yet!
- Andrew
- Andrew
Monday, July 16, 2012
The final day
July 16th
From Jon
Today was the final day of camp. What an amazing time it has been! I look back on the past couple of weeks and I'm amazed at all that God has done. He has provided each of us with opportunities to be intentional with the French campers and to share our faith with them. I have truly seen God working here in France.
Being on the worship team has given me a special opportunity to minister through music. Worshiping with music is hands down my favorite way to praise God and I feel closest to him when I play and sing. I've had the unique opportunity to be able to see every single camper during the worship time. I've been able to witness subtle changes in the campers that not many others have. These change are evident through the faces and actions of the French during worship. At the beginning of camp there were many blank faces in the crowd during worship. However, I now have a hard time spotting someone without a tear in their eye or a smile on their face. Seeing this change in the campers has been an amazing encouragement to me and its definitely left an impact on me.
Tonight we are preparing for the traditional talent show. This is the last big event of camp and it promises to be a good time. However, many of us are preparing our acts with mixed feelings. We know that tomorrow it will be time to say good bye to each other and head back to the different parts of the world we each call home. The good byes may be painful but I am confident that God has done what he wanted to be done here through all of us. I will definitely miss the view that I wake up to every morning, and the people, and the coffee in bowls, but I will be able to leave it all behind knowing I've done His will. I'm confident that God will continue to work in the lives of the French campers. I know we are all willing to pass the baton on to the next people who God has chosen to help these campers grow.
July 16th
From Jon
Today was the final day of camp. What an amazing time it has been! I look back on the past couple of weeks and I'm amazed at all that God has done. He has provided each of us with opportunities to be intentional with the French campers and to share our faith with them. I have truly seen God working here in France.
Being on the worship team has given me a special opportunity to minister through music. Worshiping with music is hands down my favorite way to praise God and I feel closest to him when I play and sing. I've had the unique opportunity to be able to see every single camper during the worship time. I've been able to witness subtle changes in the campers that not many others have. These change are evident through the faces and actions of the French during worship. At the beginning of camp there were many blank faces in the crowd during worship. However, I now have a hard time spotting someone without a tear in their eye or a smile on their face. Seeing this change in the campers has been an amazing encouragement to me and its definitely left an impact on me.
Tonight we are preparing for the traditional talent show. This is the last big event of camp and it promises to be a good time. However, many of us are preparing our acts with mixed feelings. We know that tomorrow it will be time to say good bye to each other and head back to the different parts of the world we each call home. The good byes may be painful but I am confident that God has done what he wanted to be done here through all of us. I will definitely miss the view that I wake up to every morning, and the people, and the coffee in bowls, but I will be able to leave it all behind knowing I've done His will. I'm confident that God will continue to work in the lives of the French campers. I know we are all willing to pass the baton on to the next people who God has chosen to help these campers grow.
See you all soon,
Jon
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Chill day
Tim Thibault here [Pronounced Tim Tebow (Thibault is one of the counselors and is cutting paper right behind me)]
Anyway, hello all. Today has been thoroughly relaxing. We started with breakfast, moved into small groups and then a large group as usual. But then things got switched up. Workshops were moved up in the day and shortened so that we could watch the movie "To Save a Life". If that sounds familiar than your child may have told you that it was viewed during the senior high fall retreat. Than we discussed it for a bit and now have shower time before dinner. It was a much needed chill day after the whacktacular last couple days. I personally got a great night's sleep last night and am very excited to finish out camp.
Anyway, hello all. Today has been thoroughly relaxing. We started with breakfast, moved into small groups and then a large group as usual. But then things got switched up. Workshops were moved up in the day and shortened so that we could watch the movie "To Save a Life". If that sounds familiar than your child may have told you that it was viewed during the senior high fall retreat. Than we discussed it for a bit and now have shower time before dinner. It was a much needed chill day after the whacktacular last couple days. I personally got a great night's sleep last night and am very excited to finish out camp.
Thank you all for your prayers,
Tim Shack
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Tim has covered these last 36 hours well, so I'm not going to add much in the way of details, other than to say that these are critical days (aren't they all!) for extending relationships, as shared before. Not only did we have gorgeous settings (I kind of take-for-granted the mountains around here, and we watched fireworks over the valley [we saw at least 6 different firework shows from one spot (it is Bastille Day, after all)]),
full activity, and life learning, but we also had solid long bus rides ... great opportunities to go farther with our new friends. Great stuff.
Please pray for the final few days. They will be classic full days at Champfleuri. Every day is precious to our Lord, and to his work here in many lives. Thank you for praying.
Everyone on your team is fine ... a touch of a cold for Peter, and Jeremy had some nausea (you'll have to ask him how that came about!), but a bright spirit for all (and those two are pretty much back to health, I believe)... a great blessing. Life here is a wild amount of new experiences for all, completely wrapped in the experience of meeting new people in a new culture ... and doing so with the purpose of serving our Great God. Our students are growing in their own faith as well, as the time in God's Word around here is excellent (large groups, small groups, devotions, etc).
Please pray for the final few days. They will be classic full days at Champfleuri. Every day is precious to our Lord, and to his work here in many lives. Thank you for praying.
Everyone on your team is fine ... a touch of a cold for Peter, and Jeremy had some nausea (you'll have to ask him how that came about!), but a bright spirit for all (and those two are pretty much back to health, I believe)... a great blessing. Life here is a wild amount of new experiences for all, completely wrapped in the experience of meeting new people in a new culture ... and doing so with the purpose of serving our Great God. Our students are growing in their own faith as well, as the time in God's Word around here is excellent (large groups, small groups, devotions, etc).
Blessings to our home churches ... and particularly our many prayer supporters!
In His Grip,
Jim (for the team)
:O
Hello family and friends!
Today we got back from an epic multi-day adventure-fest. The first day was filled with plenty of bus travel and high ropes madness. The courses ranged from baby pink to super-ultra-mega-death black. After warming up on some of the stuff in the middle of the spectrum, 10 'Murikans and Frenchies set out for the torture-death-ultra-mega black course. I finished last. Few found it fun. The favorite course was probably the two purple courses which both had extremely long ziplines; I believe several videos were taken, you may be able to see those on Facebook or when we return. The second day we woke up at 6:45 (not cool), and headed to a kayaking place. This was the same one that we went to two years ago for you parents that may have heard stories. The kayak pirates (Myself, S, and T) were reunited and we wreaked havoc on the open sea. The only problem was that the leader of the line (The well known E, cough cough) forgot to stop for lunch, so we didn't get to meet up with any other groups. Let's just say our group was never dry. Overall, two extremely fun days with some once in a lifetime activities (France really tunes up its outdoors adventure activities well above the American standard). Much love to y'all back home. Pray that we get the rest we need and accept whatever amount of sleep we end up with as God's will, and the rest of our energy will have to come straight from His provision. May we also prioritize the French over the other Americans and continue to push outside of our comfort zones, rather than ramping down as we get close to the end of camp. Personally I would ask for a non-judgemental spirit as I continue losing sleep and start nitpicking others' weaknesses. I see this trip's purpose even more than two years ago, and it has been extremely good for faith.
Today we got back from an epic multi-day adventure-fest. The first day was filled with plenty of bus travel and high ropes madness. The courses ranged from baby pink to super-ultra-mega-death black. After warming up on some of the stuff in the middle of the spectrum, 10 'Murikans and Frenchies set out for the torture-death-ultra-mega black course. I finished last. Few found it fun. The favorite course was probably the two purple courses which both had extremely long ziplines; I believe several videos were taken, you may be able to see those on Facebook or when we return. The second day we woke up at 6:45 (not cool), and headed to a kayaking place. This was the same one that we went to two years ago for you parents that may have heard stories. The kayak pirates (Myself, S, and T) were reunited and we wreaked havoc on the open sea. The only problem was that the leader of the line (The well known E, cough cough) forgot to stop for lunch, so we didn't get to meet up with any other groups. Let's just say our group was never dry. Overall, two extremely fun days with some once in a lifetime activities (France really tunes up its outdoors adventure activities well above the American standard). Much love to y'all back home. Pray that we get the rest we need and accept whatever amount of sleep we end up with as God's will, and the rest of our energy will have to come straight from His provision. May we also prioritize the French over the other Americans and continue to push outside of our comfort zones, rather than ramping down as we get close to the end of camp. Personally I would ask for a non-judgemental spirit as I continue losing sleep and start nitpicking others' weaknesses. I see this trip's purpose even more than two years ago, and it has been extremely good for faith.
Much love to everyone back home (Especially you mom;)
Tim Shack
Thursday, July 12, 2012
God is our reason to love (Jim)
Hey Home Team -
Corey and Andrew did a nice job of reviewing activities from the day, so I'm going to give a bit of teaching overview, and prayer requests:
1. I Corinthians 13 today ... the Love chapter. The Corinthian Church was struggling with understanding spiritual gifts and with putting some people (with certain gifts) above others. Paul felt they were starting to prioritize their religious behavior over their desire to love like Christ did. He goes off in verses 1 to 3, exaggerating about tongues, prophecy and knowledge, and monetary giving to make the point that without love, these are all worthless. Love is necessary, not optional. Then, in verse 4 to 7, Paul expresses the character of love (lovely, check it out). We realized (with the help of a simple skit) that our lives must emanate from a relationship with Christ ... if we simply want to fit in with the 'Christian' crowd, we are not relating to the love of the Father ... and not reflecting behavior that results from Thanksgiving and love for the Father. In fact, if you re-read verses 4 to 7 with God's name in it, you get the idea that he initiated any love we reflect. We concluded with the permanence of love ... in the fact that faith and hope will no longer be necessary in our eternal dwelling place, but love will be there ... in the nature of God.
Oh yea, and an excellent night of worship tonight (the worship is outstanding ... and I find that the constant diet of excellent singing, prayer, testimonies [one young French student shared tonight of losing his sister to a lung clot in March ... devastating, but God being gracious in the midst], and messages is excellent for spiritual growth!).
2. We are virtually in the home stretch, for we only have 4 or 5 days left, and a number of fine, friendly relationships have been formed in many directions. That's both an advantage and a disadvantage, for it is easy to get complacent in this, and forget that God desires us to continue on in our relationships (as He leads, not mechanically or without love) for His glory. It may be to encourage someone to come closer to a salvation decision (for example, didn't believe in the worth of the Bible before camp, but now sees the worth), or make a salvation decision (glorious!), or grow as a disciple of Christ (now looking to share their faith with others, and growing in grace and truth individually). Please pray for all of the American students, in their awareness of God's work in people's lives, and joining Him in this work.
3. Also pray for our next two days, as we are going to the highest ropes course in France) tomorrow (long bus rides, perfect for extending discussions to greater meaning), and then kayaking in 2 days (again, bus rides). This timeframe is significant, for our students are stretched (lot of growth here for our students).
4. A decent amount of fatigue throughout camp currently, due to sleeping under the stars, and high energy activities. Please pray for sleep in the near term, and awake time for discussion.
Love to you all!
Jim
Corey and Andrew did a nice job of reviewing activities from the day, so I'm going to give a bit of teaching overview, and prayer requests:
1. I Corinthians 13 today ... the Love chapter. The Corinthian Church was struggling with understanding spiritual gifts and with putting some people (with certain gifts) above others. Paul felt they were starting to prioritize their religious behavior over their desire to love like Christ did. He goes off in verses 1 to 3, exaggerating about tongues, prophecy and knowledge, and monetary giving to make the point that without love, these are all worthless. Love is necessary, not optional. Then, in verse 4 to 7, Paul expresses the character of love (lovely, check it out). We realized (with the help of a simple skit) that our lives must emanate from a relationship with Christ ... if we simply want to fit in with the 'Christian' crowd, we are not relating to the love of the Father ... and not reflecting behavior that results from Thanksgiving and love for the Father. In fact, if you re-read verses 4 to 7 with God's name in it, you get the idea that he initiated any love we reflect. We concluded with the permanence of love ... in the fact that faith and hope will no longer be necessary in our eternal dwelling place, but love will be there ... in the nature of God.
Oh yea, and an excellent night of worship tonight (the worship is outstanding ... and I find that the constant diet of excellent singing, prayer, testimonies [one young French student shared tonight of losing his sister to a lung clot in March ... devastating, but God being gracious in the midst], and messages is excellent for spiritual growth!).
2. We are virtually in the home stretch, for we only have 4 or 5 days left, and a number of fine, friendly relationships have been formed in many directions. That's both an advantage and a disadvantage, for it is easy to get complacent in this, and forget that God desires us to continue on in our relationships (as He leads, not mechanically or without love) for His glory. It may be to encourage someone to come closer to a salvation decision (for example, didn't believe in the worth of the Bible before camp, but now sees the worth), or make a salvation decision (glorious!), or grow as a disciple of Christ (now looking to share their faith with others, and growing in grace and truth individually). Please pray for all of the American students, in their awareness of God's work in people's lives, and joining Him in this work.
3. Also pray for our next two days, as we are going to the highest ropes course in France) tomorrow (long bus rides, perfect for extending discussions to greater meaning), and then kayaking in 2 days (again, bus rides). This timeframe is significant, for our students are stretched (lot of growth here for our students).
4. A decent amount of fatigue throughout camp currently, due to sleeping under the stars, and high energy activities. Please pray for sleep in the near term, and awake time for discussion.
Love to you all!
Jim
Daily Wrap-up: We're back alive from the mountains!
Hey everyone!
It's the afternoon of yet another beautiful day here at Champfleuri. Today, we all woke up bright and early after an amazing night of sleep surrounded by God's beautiful creation. The night was a bit chilly at the top of the mountain, but that didn't change how awesome it was (you all will hopefully see the pictures soon!). After breakfast, some of the more daring campers decided to jog all the way down the mountain. Just like on the way up, our hike back down was lovely. After an exhausting 30-40 minutes (well, that's at least how I felt), we arrived back at Champfleuri and rushed to the showers. The other groups came in about 40 minutes later at about 9:30 AM. We were supposed to have a soccer tournament down at Froges (the town right under us) but we all came to a consensus that we were too tired to make the hike back down and up. The rest of the day went on like a normal day. Following lunch, we had several different smaller games planned. The highlight was definitely that large group game we did at the end. It's called 'Steal the Bacon'. There were four teams lined up on all four sides of the square and an inner tube in the middle. Every person on the teams was given a number; when their number(s) were called, they all had to run to the middle and try to get the inner-tube the their side. I'll tell you firsthand, a lot of blood, sweat, and tears went into that game. That's basically it for today. Tomorrow we will go a high-ropes course about two hours away and then camp out again that night! Thanks so much for all of your prayers! Please pray for safe travels and good weather (there's a possibility of rain tomorrow). More importantly, pray that God will give us the strength to continue pursuing relationships with the other campers and that we can all glorify God with all our actions. God is truly at work in all the hearts here and the results are visible. Love you all!
- Andrew
It's the afternoon of yet another beautiful day here at Champfleuri. Today, we all woke up bright and early after an amazing night of sleep surrounded by God's beautiful creation. The night was a bit chilly at the top of the mountain, but that didn't change how awesome it was (you all will hopefully see the pictures soon!). After breakfast, some of the more daring campers decided to jog all the way down the mountain. Just like on the way up, our hike back down was lovely. After an exhausting 30-40 minutes (well, that's at least how I felt), we arrived back at Champfleuri and rushed to the showers. The other groups came in about 40 minutes later at about 9:30 AM. We were supposed to have a soccer tournament down at Froges (the town right under us) but we all came to a consensus that we were too tired to make the hike back down and up. The rest of the day went on like a normal day. Following lunch, we had several different smaller games planned. The highlight was definitely that large group game we did at the end. It's called 'Steal the Bacon'. There were four teams lined up on all four sides of the square and an inner tube in the middle. Every person on the teams was given a number; when their number(s) were called, they all had to run to the middle and try to get the inner-tube the their side. I'll tell you firsthand, a lot of blood, sweat, and tears went into that game. That's basically it for today. Tomorrow we will go a high-ropes course about two hours away and then camp out again that night! Thanks so much for all of your prayers! Please pray for safe travels and good weather (there's a possibility of rain tomorrow). More importantly, pray that God will give us the strength to continue pursuing relationships with the other campers and that we can all glorify God with all our actions. God is truly at work in all the hearts here and the results are visible. Love you all!
- Andrew
Crazy Awesome Camping! (Corey)
So yesterday was a typical day (breakfast, small groups, large group, lunch time, workshops) until 5 o'clock when we decided to venture off into the French wilderness with nothing but our backpacks and each other to stay alive. Just kidding! We left camp in three groups led by different counselors and went for a nice 1.5-2 hour hike through some woods and on the sides of some roads. Thankfully, the first two groups made it safely to the field where we were to sleep, but the third group (the one I was in) took a few wrong turns and ended up basically hiking through the uncharted wilderness for a while. But we made it eventually! The field where we set up our tarps and sleeping bags had the MOST BEAUTIFUL view I have ever seen in my entire life! It was unreal. On one side of the field we could see the same mountains we see at Champfleuri, but facing the other way there was a valley with a few houses spotting the thick forest. And behind that thick forest were amazingly huge and awesome mountains with snow on the top of them!! My poor description does not do the view justice; it was truly amazing to be surrounded 360 degress by God's beautiful creation. And then we got to sleep under the stars, with no tents! It was for sure one of the best nights of my life. And now we are going to a ropes course and camping out again on Friday, followed by kayaking on Saturday. Everyone is super excited!
Thank you all again for your prayers! Please pray that we won't burn out before camp is over!
Corey
Thank you all again for your prayers! Please pray that we won't burn out before camp is over!
Corey
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
3 testimonies and a hike! (Jim)
Hello Home Team! -
Today we head out on a hike further up the mountains (reaching approx. 800 meters) and sleep out under the stars ... whew! Therefore, you won't hear from us for a 24 hour period or so.
Peter, Liz, and Andrew have now given their testimonies in the last few days ... all have been well received (you'll have to ask those students if others have commented to them afterward) and have initiated some conversations.
Peter commented on God's work in his heart through his sports involvement ups and downs, and significant moments at Camp Sankanac (it is very cool to have a faithful camp nearby). Liz also shared of sports highs and lows, but mainly how she has been aware of her need for men and women's (peers mainly) approval, and how God was moving her away from that addiction (if I can call it that ... I can relate). Andrew shared of the significant impact of Champfleuri in 2010 ... and he wasn't even here! His brother Kris was here, and God had continued to make Kris a changed man in the timeframe at Champfleuri. Andrew noticed, and via G3 youth group, God began to bring Andrew to an understanding of His great love, and Andrew's sinful nature. Apparently, our Fall 2011 retreat was quite a turning point. Sweet!
The talk this morning concerned suffering ... and how God uses it for a number of purposes. He works to grow us in Christlikeness, to make us aware of God's work in us (how we respond reflects how we believe), and to bring us together in community to name a few.
Pray for ongoing and growing intentionality in our team and the other American teams. Time is seemingly always short!
Blessings,
Jim
Today we head out on a hike further up the mountains (reaching approx. 800 meters) and sleep out under the stars ... whew! Therefore, you won't hear from us for a 24 hour period or so.
Peter, Liz, and Andrew have now given their testimonies in the last few days ... all have been well received (you'll have to ask those students if others have commented to them afterward) and have initiated some conversations.
Peter commented on God's work in his heart through his sports involvement ups and downs, and significant moments at Camp Sankanac (it is very cool to have a faithful camp nearby). Liz also shared of sports highs and lows, but mainly how she has been aware of her need for men and women's (peers mainly) approval, and how God was moving her away from that addiction (if I can call it that ... I can relate). Andrew shared of the significant impact of Champfleuri in 2010 ... and he wasn't even here! His brother Kris was here, and God had continued to make Kris a changed man in the timeframe at Champfleuri. Andrew noticed, and via G3 youth group, God began to bring Andrew to an understanding of His great love, and Andrew's sinful nature. Apparently, our Fall 2011 retreat was quite a turning point. Sweet!
The talk this morning concerned suffering ... and how God uses it for a number of purposes. He works to grow us in Christlikeness, to make us aware of God's work in us (how we respond reflects how we believe), and to bring us together in community to name a few.
Pray for ongoing and growing intentionality in our team and the other American teams. Time is seemingly always short!
Blessings,
Jim
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Thunderball and Rockpainting !!! (Liz)
Today was day 5 of camp!! Our large group meeting today was full of wonderful songs, followed by a great talk by Buan. We talked about how we are not to make others stumble in the faith, and how to make wise decisions (based on I Corinthians 8). The afternoon was started off with a Thunderball Tournament!!!! (and you know how much our youth group loves thunderball! :)) It was a lot of fun and a good time to build stronger relationships. During workshops I led rock painting! It was quite a hit, providing girls and guys with an activity they had never seen before :). I had the opportunity to share my testimony on Sunday, and have talked to a handful of students and friends about it since. I am praying that God is able to work through my testimony in the students hearts! Hope all is well at home! ~ Liz
Update from "Phillyfrenchies"
Hi guys! Whass'up? [expression learnt from Steph]
Tuesday is an awesome day so far: very good small groups discussion and talk [by Buan] about the relationship between freedom and love, the nature of freedom we have in Christ and how sometimes we need to give up doing something if it turns out to be a challenge to someone's faith [choosing not to do something in an act of love to the other] . Debora [one of the French counselor] gave her testimony sharing how TED 2009 changed her life and how she became a Christian. Praise the Lord!
This afternoon was amazing with a thunderball tournament which was really fun [go team 6!!!], we laughed a lot!!
Thank you all for your prayers. The Philly team is really awesome with the French teens!
Cecile
Hi everyone!
I'm so glad to be with the Philly team this year. It's always a blessing to work with them. It's also amazing to spend times with good friends. It reminds me the great time I spent in Philly !!
Three teens of the team gave their testimonies the past two days. It was so encouraging to show how God is working in their lives and how God answers prayers. It also shows that persevering always pays.
They are sharing so much love with everyone in this camp!
Jim preached yesterday morning and did a really good job.
We went swimming and they all mixed up and split in small groups to play card games which was great!
We are really blessed to have them with us. Thanks for your prayers and for letting them come in France :)
Be blessed!
Elodie
Tuesday is an awesome day so far: very good small groups discussion and talk [by Buan] about the relationship between freedom and love, the nature of freedom we have in Christ and how sometimes we need to give up doing something if it turns out to be a challenge to someone's faith [choosing not to do something in an act of love to the other] . Debora [one of the French counselor] gave her testimony sharing how TED 2009 changed her life and how she became a Christian. Praise the Lord!
This afternoon was amazing with a thunderball tournament which was really fun [go team 6!!!], we laughed a lot!!
Thank you all for your prayers. The Philly team is really awesome with the French teens!
Cecile
Hi everyone!
I'm so glad to be with the Philly team this year. It's always a blessing to work with them. It's also amazing to spend times with good friends. It reminds me the great time I spent in Philly !!
Three teens of the team gave their testimonies the past two days. It was so encouraging to show how God is working in their lives and how God answers prayers. It also shows that persevering always pays.
They are sharing so much love with everyone in this camp!
Jim preached yesterday morning and did a really good job.
We went swimming and they all mixed up and split in small groups to play card games which was great!
We are really blessed to have them with us. Thanks for your prayers and for letting them come in France :)
Be blessed!
Elodie
Monday, July 9, 2012
Marriage and lake trip ... Jim
Hey All! -
Today was classic and pleasant. Following breakfast, we moved through small groups and large group from I Corinthians, chapter 7. This included a talk on 'consumer' relationships, marketplace type ... and 'covenant' relationships, God's intent for marriage (along with parent/child and other). The latter type is significant in two directions, horizontal (with our marriage partner) and vertical (commitment before God) ... ever notice at a Christian wedding how there are questions from the minister (will you take and will you care for?) and vows to the marriage partner? The first is before God and the second to the spouse. In the latter, the relationship is more important than the benefit to each individual. We are called to maintain that relationship above any benefit to us. The world has often turned marriage into a consumer relationship (see Cruise and Holmes, etc.), not at all what God intended, obviously.
We followed large group with lunch and an afternoon trip to a local lake, which every student seemed to enjoy thoroughly. We are very blessed this year to have an awfully pleasant bunch of campers relationally. God works through any circumstance (difficult campers, dating relationships, etc.), but this year I would emphasize the smooth relationships throughout camp (at least so far) ... and therefore solid relationships are being formed at a quick pace it seems to me.
Please continue to pray for the American campers to hold to an 'intentional' mindset. It is easy to simply 'have fun' and not listen to the Spirit's lead that we use pleasant relationships and fun to further His Kingdom, and bring others to a saving knowledge and relationship with our Lord. It really is a critical time, even though camp is going very well, imo. I will tell you that I received a couple of nice comments from Champfleuri leaders about a couple of our students today ... in the area of reaching out and loving others.
Really appreciate the prayers (Kari is fast improving ... and is an excellent communicator with others in the meantime!)!
Blessings,
Jim Shack (for the team)
Today was classic and pleasant. Following breakfast, we moved through small groups and large group from I Corinthians, chapter 7. This included a talk on 'consumer' relationships, marketplace type ... and 'covenant' relationships, God's intent for marriage (along with parent/child and other). The latter type is significant in two directions, horizontal (with our marriage partner) and vertical (commitment before God) ... ever notice at a Christian wedding how there are questions from the minister (will you take and will you care for?) and vows to the marriage partner? The first is before God and the second to the spouse. In the latter, the relationship is more important than the benefit to each individual. We are called to maintain that relationship above any benefit to us. The world has often turned marriage into a consumer relationship (see Cruise and Holmes, etc.), not at all what God intended, obviously.
We followed large group with lunch and an afternoon trip to a local lake, which every student seemed to enjoy thoroughly. We are very blessed this year to have an awfully pleasant bunch of campers relationally. God works through any circumstance (difficult campers, dating relationships, etc.), but this year I would emphasize the smooth relationships throughout camp (at least so far) ... and therefore solid relationships are being formed at a quick pace it seems to me.
Please continue to pray for the American campers to hold to an 'intentional' mindset. It is easy to simply 'have fun' and not listen to the Spirit's lead that we use pleasant relationships and fun to further His Kingdom, and bring others to a saving knowledge and relationship with our Lord. It really is a critical time, even though camp is going very well, imo. I will tell you that I received a couple of nice comments from Champfleuri leaders about a couple of our students today ... in the area of reaching out and loving others.
Really appreciate the prayers (Kari is fast improving ... and is an excellent communicator with others in the meantime!)!
Blessings,
Jim Shack (for the team)
Lake Day and update from camp
Hey y'all!
We just got back from a lake today that we all had a fun time swimming, playing volleyball and cards. Andrew (AP) and I got to have a little taste of home that we were missing, french fries! We ordered a huge plate of fries with the help of M. It was something that we had both been craving and once we got it we downed it within a few minutes. Aside from going to the lake camp has been amazing so far. It's been awesome to wake up and see the Alps and know that it is all God's creation. I've been getting to know my roommates better and have been blessed to have 3 roommates who speak fluent English so talks can go more in depth without having to translate. They all have a strong faith it seems from the talks I've had with them in the mornings and at night. I have also been blessed to get to know M, A, and X. They all speak English fairly well even though X is a bit shy but is starting to break out of his shell. X is in my small group and is someone that is an extremely kind person. He was helping me the other day in small group get through reading a passage in the Bible, in French. It was a rough process for me but it was an opportunity for X and I become closer and to also gain a feel for what the French kids experience by having to read and speak in English. A prayer request I have is that G would open his heart up to the Lord because he believes the Bible is what man thinks God would be. My other request is that M would be more open to people talking to him. I thank all of you for your continued prayer because I know it is helping all of us. God bless.
Jeremy Holland
We just got back from a lake today that we all had a fun time swimming, playing volleyball and cards. Andrew (AP) and I got to have a little taste of home that we were missing, french fries! We ordered a huge plate of fries with the help of M. It was something that we had both been craving and once we got it we downed it within a few minutes. Aside from going to the lake camp has been amazing so far. It's been awesome to wake up and see the Alps and know that it is all God's creation. I've been getting to know my roommates better and have been blessed to have 3 roommates who speak fluent English so talks can go more in depth without having to translate. They all have a strong faith it seems from the talks I've had with them in the mornings and at night. I have also been blessed to get to know M, A, and X. They all speak English fairly well even though X is a bit shy but is starting to break out of his shell. X is in my small group and is someone that is an extremely kind person. He was helping me the other day in small group get through reading a passage in the Bible, in French. It was a rough process for me but it was an opportunity for X and I become closer and to also gain a feel for what the French kids experience by having to read and speak in English. A prayer request I have is that G would open his heart up to the Lord because he believes the Bible is what man thinks God would be. My other request is that M would be more open to people talking to him. I thank all of you for your continued prayer because I know it is helping all of us. God bless.
Jeremy Holland
Sunday, July 8, 2012
American Football in France!!! (Peter)
Greetings from Champfleuri!
This afternoon footballs were flying around the main field in Champfleuri. Today, I had the chance to lead a workshop for about 10 French and 2 American campers. After practicing throwing the football to each other in two different small groups, it was time to teach the French campers about the somewhat unusual rules and objectives of American football. A few of the French were familiar with the rules of rugby, which I learned is actually played by many students in high school. With the help of a good English speaking French camper, the other French students were able to understand the different aspects of basic football that I was trying to get across. Before long everyone was feeling comfortable with the new rules, and we started playing a game of two-hand touch football (players would touch the person with the ball instead of tackling them). At first the game started slowly, and not very many passes were completed. But before long, every time the quarterback threw the ball someone would usually catch it. It was truly encouraging to see that everyone was starting to learn the game and that they were also enjoying it. The final score of the game was 2-1 (my team was the other that scored 2 touchdowns... oh yeah!!).
Everything at camp so far has been awesome, and everyone on the G3 team has been really getting to know all the French campers. Meal times have been great opportunities to sit with different people that you might not know as well; its been exciting to learn more and more about the many French campers as well as the other American campers. With each new day, we have all looked to find new opportunities to engage in a conversation about God and/or the Bible. Another encouraging sign to see is that many of the French campers have been open and willing to listen and sing during Worship time. I'm so very excited for tomorrow, and all the wonderful opportunities that God provides each day!
Peter
This afternoon footballs were flying around the main field in Champfleuri. Today, I had the chance to lead a workshop for about 10 French and 2 American campers. After practicing throwing the football to each other in two different small groups, it was time to teach the French campers about the somewhat unusual rules and objectives of American football. A few of the French were familiar with the rules of rugby, which I learned is actually played by many students in high school. With the help of a good English speaking French camper, the other French students were able to understand the different aspects of basic football that I was trying to get across. Before long everyone was feeling comfortable with the new rules, and we started playing a game of two-hand touch football (players would touch the person with the ball instead of tackling them). At first the game started slowly, and not very many passes were completed. But before long, every time the quarterback threw the ball someone would usually catch it. It was truly encouraging to see that everyone was starting to learn the game and that they were also enjoying it. The final score of the game was 2-1 (my team was the other that scored 2 touchdowns... oh yeah!!).
Everything at camp so far has been awesome, and everyone on the G3 team has been really getting to know all the French campers. Meal times have been great opportunities to sit with different people that you might not know as well; its been exciting to learn more and more about the many French campers as well as the other American campers. With each new day, we have all looked to find new opportunities to engage in a conversation about God and/or the Bible. Another encouraging sign to see is that many of the French campers have been open and willing to listen and sing during Worship time. I'm so very excited for tomorrow, and all the wonderful opportunities that God provides each day!
Peter
TED day 2!
Hello blog-readers! Today has been a great day so far. It was very cloudy and gray this morning but the sun came out shortly after breakfast. Woo-hoo! We had small groups after breakfast, then a large group meeting with worship and a discussion about 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 (Lawsuits among believers). Lunch was pork chops and mashed potatoes, the most American thing we've eaten so far, with a weird custard-y thing for dessert that everyone hated except me and Peter. After lunch was the today's afternoon activity, the Champfleuri Olympics, consisting of ping-pong, volleyball, human foosball, and running A LOT. And workshops followed that. I was part of the frisbee golf workshop while others from our team led American football, and large group games.
Thank you everyone for your massive amounts of support and prayer thus far!! We truly appreciate them. Please pray that we will have impacts on the lives of the French campers and live out camp in a way that pleases the Lord!
Corey
Colossians 3:17
Thank you everyone for your massive amounts of support and prayer thus far!! We truly appreciate them. Please pray that we will have impacts on the lives of the French campers and live out camp in a way that pleases the Lord!
Corey
Colossians 3:17
Update (we are involved with alot currently!) ... Jim
Hello again Home Team! -
With this first full day under wraps, our days are now officially 'smoking,' with small group discussions, large group talks (Buan on 'fairness' today (was the cross a fair thing for Jesus? ... an example of grace, not fairness ... I Cor. 6, and games (today was a TED olympics, rotating among 4 different stations of games. These all lead in significant ways to relationships (with our Savior, and with each other). Oh yea, and Liz gave her testimony today just prior to Buan's message. Sweet! Let’s see if I can give a good overview of some typical daily events, using yesterday as an example.
Yesterday (Saturday) started off with a simple breakfast (bread, cereal if desired, coffee, and fruit), followed by our first small group hour. The small groups are classified by English speaking ability, with our team spread out completely among the 8 groups (11 each, full camp!). Although English speaking ability helps, this can be significant time for every member to form deeper knowledge of each other, and have meaningful conversations. Tim and Josh and others are with barely-English speaking groups. Large group follows small groups, and was an introduction to I Corinthians, Paul's letter to the church at the wild city of Corinth ... represents contemporary challenges well.
Lunch followed, so far it's been a fairly American cuisine, with a lot of cucumber and tomatoes for good measure. Fun afternoon as well … we ran 'Ultimate Frisbee' down in Froges (probably a 1 mile hike down and up the mountain the camp is situated on. Workshops followed, with Liz, Corey, Nate, Jeremy, and Peter all leading one. Workshops consist of American Campers or French Counselors instructing French campers in an activity ... lasting 45 minutes or more. Another great interaction (and leadership building) activity. Showers and dinner followed … and then the evening was consumed by ‘Pictionary down the Lane,' a wonderfully engaging activity for the whole group (ask your team member when they get home). A great relationship building day. By the way, camp leaders were really sweating weather when we got here ... supposed to rain a lot. Well, the forecast has improved drastically, and we haven't seen rain yet, other than once in the middle of the night. Thanks for praying about this as we go forward.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the fabulous Sr. Highers that we have sent over to serve in France. We just had a brief meeting today among our team, and they have handled any awkward moments well, and really have breezed through the 'getting to know' stage. Please pray that we would stay on course, not just falling into being a 'camper' for the next week or so, but that we would continue to listen for God's lead where we can be 'intentional campers,' those who will reach out and serve ... for the purpose of extending God's kingdom on earth, and to raise disciples that love our Lord.
Here's what I am most proud of. These 11 are outgoing (even if it doesn't come naturally) in order to help those French who also don't know any others, and because they know they will not integrate if they give up on getting to know their French peers. That is a difficult ... and worthwhile effort!
So ... blessings to the homefront.
Oh, and pray for Kari, who has a sore back (but not really sure yet how it happened). She lost a bit of sleep last night, and is taking it easy today.
Blessed,
Jim
With this first full day under wraps, our days are now officially 'smoking,' with small group discussions, large group talks (Buan on 'fairness' today (was the cross a fair thing for Jesus? ... an example of grace, not fairness ... I Cor. 6, and games (today was a TED olympics, rotating among 4 different stations of games. These all lead in significant ways to relationships (with our Savior, and with each other). Oh yea, and Liz gave her testimony today just prior to Buan's message. Sweet! Let’s see if I can give a good overview of some typical daily events, using yesterday as an example.
Yesterday (Saturday) started off with a simple breakfast (bread, cereal if desired, coffee, and fruit), followed by our first small group hour. The small groups are classified by English speaking ability, with our team spread out completely among the 8 groups (11 each, full camp!). Although English speaking ability helps, this can be significant time for every member to form deeper knowledge of each other, and have meaningful conversations. Tim and Josh and others are with barely-English speaking groups. Large group follows small groups, and was an introduction to I Corinthians, Paul's letter to the church at the wild city of Corinth ... represents contemporary challenges well.
Lunch followed, so far it's been a fairly American cuisine, with a lot of cucumber and tomatoes for good measure. Fun afternoon as well … we ran 'Ultimate Frisbee' down in Froges (probably a 1 mile hike down and up the mountain the camp is situated on. Workshops followed, with Liz, Corey, Nate, Jeremy, and Peter all leading one. Workshops consist of American Campers or French Counselors instructing French campers in an activity ... lasting 45 minutes or more. Another great interaction (and leadership building) activity. Showers and dinner followed … and then the evening was consumed by ‘Pictionary down the Lane,' a wonderfully engaging activity for the whole group (ask your team member when they get home). A great relationship building day. By the way, camp leaders were really sweating weather when we got here ... supposed to rain a lot. Well, the forecast has improved drastically, and we haven't seen rain yet, other than once in the middle of the night. Thanks for praying about this as we go forward.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the fabulous Sr. Highers that we have sent over to serve in France. We just had a brief meeting today among our team, and they have handled any awkward moments well, and really have breezed through the 'getting to know' stage. Please pray that we would stay on course, not just falling into being a 'camper' for the next week or so, but that we would continue to listen for God's lead where we can be 'intentional campers,' those who will reach out and serve ... for the purpose of extending God's kingdom on earth, and to raise disciples that love our Lord.
Here's what I am most proud of. These 11 are outgoing (even if it doesn't come naturally) in order to help those French who also don't know any others, and because they know they will not integrate if they give up on getting to know their French peers. That is a difficult ... and worthwhile effort!
So ... blessings to the homefront.
Oh, and pray for Kari, who has a sore back (but not really sure yet how it happened). She lost a bit of sleep last night, and is taking it easy today.
Blessed,
Jim
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Ultimate Frisbee in Froge (Kari)
Hey people! So France is awesome! Today is the first full day with the French students and it is awesome! We broke up into small groups in the morning (which we will be doing every morning) and we are going through Corinthians! Then this afternoon we went down to Froge where we played ULTIMATE FRISBEE!! The hike down was pretty long and a little steep. It was more challenging coming back to camp on the way back. When we got down to the fields we were broken up into 10 teams and played about 5 games. It was really hot but very fun and pretty with the mountains near the soccer fields.
Please pray that we will be able to talk to the french about Christianity and that Christ would give us the words to say to the students and that they will be able to process what we are saying.
Thanks everyone for praying for us!
Please pray that we will be able to talk to the french about Christianity and that Christ would give us the words to say to the students and that they will be able to process what we are saying.
Thanks everyone for praying for us!
getting used to camp life (Josh)
Hey everyone! So I have no idea what anyone else posted on this, so let's hope mine doesn't echo someone else's. Anyway, most of the kids are here now, that is to say all of them except I'm pretty sure 2 have yet to come. My roommates are J., B., and Y.; the latter two are okay at English but struggle, and J. is quite good. I've noticed the general trend seems to be that they can understand us (if we speak slowly ad use common words) fairly easily, but have great difficulty responding. It's fun, though, because I took 3 years of French and I can use some of it to help communicate! But a lot of times I accidentally use Spanish instead and it just confuses everybody. I'm still learning.
But yeah, camp is really fun and we're slowly getting to know the French campers! All of us Americans got to know each other pretty well in just the first day, which was really cool, so we're comfortable with anyone and we can work together really well, which is a great blessing. There are many more days to go though, as we have just begun! Pray that the hearts of the French are opened, and pray for less shyness. This is Josh, signing off.
But yeah, camp is really fun and we're slowly getting to know the French campers! All of us Americans got to know each other pretty well in just the first day, which was really cool, so we're comfortable with anyone and we can work together really well, which is a great blessing. There are many more days to go though, as we have just begun! Pray that the hearts of the French are opened, and pray for less shyness. This is Josh, signing off.
Friday, July 6, 2012
First day coming to a close (Jim)
Friday,
July 6 (evening)
The very critical first day has gone well.
The very critical first day has gone well.
Please
pray for the many French students that came today (it is really quite a day for
them as well ... being tossed into an English speaking environment) where they
don't know many ... and for God's blessing in allowing relationships to take
shape in a hurry.
Our students are proving that they got the message of all of our preparation ... and it applies to all our lives. Intentional service to God and others.
Also, please pray for these first few days. The French are not used to speaking English, so we are often left out of conversations at the meal table (do you know that we have a rule that only 2 of the Philly team are allowed at any one table?) or in the dorm room (each G3 High Schooler is in a room with 3 or 4 French campers ... actually Jeremy has a couple solid English speakers in his room). In the past, God has always been faithful that this naturally comes around, but it is always an awkward couple of days. There is also a joy in meeting new people and having such opportunity to serve.
Through your prayers and by God's grace we are working our way into the French teens lives, even at this early stage. Please continue to pray that hearts would be open and that the Holy Spirit would speak and work through us. First full day of camp tomorrow!
Bon Nuit, Jim
Our students are proving that they got the message of all of our preparation ... and it applies to all our lives. Intentional service to God and others.
Also, please pray for these first few days. The French are not used to speaking English, so we are often left out of conversations at the meal table (do you know that we have a rule that only 2 of the Philly team are allowed at any one table?) or in the dorm room (each G3 High Schooler is in a room with 3 or 4 French campers ... actually Jeremy has a couple solid English speakers in his room). In the past, God has always been faithful that this naturally comes around, but it is always an awkward couple of days. There is also a joy in meeting new people and having such opportunity to serve.
Through your prayers and by God's grace we are working our way into the French teens lives, even at this early stage. Please continue to pray that hearts would be open and that the Holy Spirit would speak and work through us. First full day of camp tomorrow!
Bon Nuit, Jim
French Culture (Graham)
A big part of our time at Champfleuri so far has been learning French customs and traditions. Surprisingly, it's not very straight forward. The discussion of the bisu (the French traditonal greeting of touching cheeks together and making kissing sounds then switching over to the other cheek to repeat) brought on a lively debate from the French counselors concerning which cheeks meet first and how many times it is done. Another big area of discussion is table etiquette, which yet again remains debateable. Rules we have learned:
1. Keep your hands above the table, not below.
2. Bread is put on the table, not on the plate.
3. When finished, utensils stay on the plate.
There are others but for the sake of time, I'll cut it off here. We have also learned a lot about French laws. The camp is required to serve different types of meals everyday that meet all the food groups (sadly for us, we can't eat pasta everyday). They are required to serve several dairy products a day (and milk does not count). They have to let French students smoke, if they do (the smoking age limit here is 16) but they can dictate where. We are also required to turn over our cellphones and any equipment that can connect to the internet. The reason being, Champfleuri collects the French students cellphones when they arrive to push them to participate in the daily activities. The French people believe strongly in equality and justice though, so if their technology is taken then ours needs to be as well to avoid conflict.
In the end though all 21 American campers aren't concerned with having to pick up these new social norms and rules, we're just happy to be here. We have one of the most stunning views I have seen in my life from our quad (pictures to come) and amazing people around us. I hope everyone is doing well at home and finds themselves a little less busy with 1 or 2 teenagers out of the house.
This is Graham Davis signing off.
1. Keep your hands above the table, not below.
2. Bread is put on the table, not on the plate.
3. When finished, utensils stay on the plate.
There are others but for the sake of time, I'll cut it off here. We have also learned a lot about French laws. The camp is required to serve different types of meals everyday that meet all the food groups (sadly for us, we can't eat pasta everyday). They are required to serve several dairy products a day (and milk does not count). They have to let French students smoke, if they do (the smoking age limit here is 16) but they can dictate where. We are also required to turn over our cellphones and any equipment that can connect to the internet. The reason being, Champfleuri collects the French students cellphones when they arrive to push them to participate in the daily activities. The French people believe strongly in equality and justice though, so if their technology is taken then ours needs to be as well to avoid conflict.
In the end though all 21 American campers aren't concerned with having to pick up these new social norms and rules, we're just happy to be here. We have one of the most stunning views I have seen in my life from our quad (pictures to come) and amazing people around us. I hope everyone is doing well at home and finds themselves a little less busy with 1 or 2 teenagers out of the house.
This is Graham Davis signing off.
The French are Coming, Les Francais viennent!!! (Jeremy, AP, Nate)
7/6/12
French Kids are about to show up!!! The cabins are clean, the volleyball net is set up now we just need people to fill the cabins and use the volleyball net (which will happen plenty!). We already popped two soccer balls and one volleyball and the French aren't even here yet. Have no fear we have taken out the great bush of death that had 6 inch long thorns. Everybody's excited, yet tired, but we're ready to get to know the French kids (and their names). It still hasn't totally hit us that we are in France. Happy Belated America ('Mer'ca) Day to all. We represented proudly in the UK on 20 minutes of sleep. Hope everyone is doing ok at home. Shout out to Mamma Shack (my mom) at home ... and Mamma Pete and Mamma Holl as their children are here with me. We're all healthy, thanks for the prayers. This is Jeremy H., AP, and Nate signing off.
French Kids are about to show up!!! The cabins are clean, the volleyball net is set up now we just need people to fill the cabins and use the volleyball net (which will happen plenty!). We already popped two soccer balls and one volleyball and the French aren't even here yet. Have no fear we have taken out the great bush of death that had 6 inch long thorns. Everybody's excited, yet tired, but we're ready to get to know the French kids (and their names). It still hasn't totally hit us that we are in France. Happy Belated America ('Mer'ca) Day to all. We represented proudly in the UK on 20 minutes of sleep. Hope everyone is doing ok at home. Shout out to Mamma Shack (my mom) at home ... and Mamma Pete and Mamma Holl as their children are here with me. We're all healthy, thanks for the prayers. This is Jeremy H., AP, and Nate signing off.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Thursday wrap up ... Here goes! (Jim)
Hello Home Team! -
Liz was right ... we have experienced a bit of fatigue (not unexpected and not different than other years ... but always unique, particularly to first-timers)
Commercial break ... Elodie and Cecile want me to pause and say 'Hello' and ... 'you are all amazing!' (special 'hi' to Mama Shack ... some of you know Elodie from her visits to a few of us in the States ... and her time as a fellow attendee (and counselor) at previous years of TED. Some of you know Cecile as a camper in previous years at TED and a family visit to the States ... they both are our guardian angels over here!)
Back to it ... We arrived safely yesterday afternoon with smooth sailing ... all bodies and luggage arriving on time and intact! Philly to London to Lyon to Grenoble to Champfleuri. Today we were far more awake, and had a fine day. In fact, I would say that today established the best coordination with the other American Campers of any year I've been. Our students polished their workshops with each other, had a volleyball tournament (ended in a tie!) amongst themselves (hybrid teams, of course), and came out with a great start toward the morrow, when our focus shifts. The team from St. Louis consists of 3 female campers and two female leaders (all of whom were here last year ... and have many solid memories). The team from Dillon, Colorado consists of one male leader, two female leaders, 4 female campers, and 3 male campers. Great groups both ... and it has been a team-growing day.
Tomorrow (Friday), the French campers arrive, starting around noon. This is a significant day, for it is probably the day when all campers work through a few awkward moments (even the greeting can be awkward ... we were figuring that out with some French counselors over dinner tonight. Do we 'bisous' (touching cheek to cheek) or simply shake hands? We are entering the culture of these French youth, so we'll be sensitive to cultural fineries (girls will be more involved (with French gals)with their greeting than the guys (must be a personal space thing!). I digress ... tomorrow is an important day, and we would appreciate your prayer for these first couple days ... very important that relationships are established effectively. Think about it ... just as Jesus faced many awkward moments (and plenty worse) for our benefit, so we are called to 'put ourselves out there' to be a blessing to others. Great opportunity here!
I am always struck by the incredible diversity of the leadership team. Check this out:
1. Damien. Camp director, and overall top dog (and Texan of all things), along with ...
2. Allan (Camp TED worship leader, Allan was with us for a Champfleuri TED many years ago, but we had missed him in recent years. I'm really glad to be back in touch with him. Jon Steel will get plenty of time with Allan, as he is going to join the worship team as the lead electric guitar.
3. Buan (pronounced Boone). Buan is a Wheaton undergrad and grad student from a few years ago. He spent some of his youth in France, and has always had a hankering to return as a missionary. He met Theresa while at Wheaton, and they formed their plan to be involved with youth camping ministries in France, so I'd say Champfleuri is a direct hit. Buan brings all kinds of things to the table (outdoor specialist, capable of music leadership, very relational, small group leader, etc.). These three make up the prime leadership of camp, and they simply do a great job of learning from past history, bringing effective changes to camp, while maintaining the baseline of quality and grace.
4. Thomas ... recently married to Carine. Thomas is responsible for the upkeep of the facilities, and Carine now runs the kitchen and facility staff. Both are entirely capable of helping with language translation and small group leading. Seems like a great pairing to me.
6. Tom, Ann, Cindy ... leadership team for the Dillon, CO group. Tom is the youth leader at the church, and Cindy and Mom are moms of students on their team.
7. Janet and Sarah ... leadership team for the St. Louis group ... Janet is also the Mom of one student on their team. These 3 moms form a very effective team of many behind-the-scenes activities ... Damien's right hand team!
8. Steph!! What a great blessing this young lady is, as she fits perfectly the model of being intentional with her life for God’s glory … and loving our kids and the French kids. She is leading a small group, and constantly on the move.
9. Add a support staff that hails people from northern Ireland, Switzerland, UK, Chicago, and France (etc.), and this becomes one of the finest melting pots I've ever interacted with! Just a taste of the diversity God designs into his kingdom, now and into eternity. He is the common bond to bring together a team that loves the Lord, and shows love to a variety of kids that may or may not have heard the gospel message before.
OK, a good start to the blog ... and a good preparation day ... and I'm going to try and have our students blogging regularly, although they will be very busy starting tomorrow!
Appreciative of our home team!
Bon Nuit, Jim
Liz was right ... we have experienced a bit of fatigue (not unexpected and not different than other years ... but always unique, particularly to first-timers)
Commercial break ... Elodie and Cecile want me to pause and say 'Hello' and ... 'you are all amazing!' (special 'hi' to Mama Shack ... some of you know Elodie from her visits to a few of us in the States ... and her time as a fellow attendee (and counselor) at previous years of TED. Some of you know Cecile as a camper in previous years at TED and a family visit to the States ... they both are our guardian angels over here!)
Back to it ... We arrived safely yesterday afternoon with smooth sailing ... all bodies and luggage arriving on time and intact! Philly to London to Lyon to Grenoble to Champfleuri. Today we were far more awake, and had a fine day. In fact, I would say that today established the best coordination with the other American Campers of any year I've been. Our students polished their workshops with each other, had a volleyball tournament (ended in a tie!) amongst themselves (hybrid teams, of course), and came out with a great start toward the morrow, when our focus shifts. The team from St. Louis consists of 3 female campers and two female leaders (all of whom were here last year ... and have many solid memories). The team from Dillon, Colorado consists of one male leader, two female leaders, 4 female campers, and 3 male campers. Great groups both ... and it has been a team-growing day.
Tomorrow (Friday), the French campers arrive, starting around noon. This is a significant day, for it is probably the day when all campers work through a few awkward moments (even the greeting can be awkward ... we were figuring that out with some French counselors over dinner tonight. Do we 'bisous' (touching cheek to cheek) or simply shake hands? We are entering the culture of these French youth, so we'll be sensitive to cultural fineries (girls will be more involved (with French gals)with their greeting than the guys (must be a personal space thing!). I digress ... tomorrow is an important day, and we would appreciate your prayer for these first couple days ... very important that relationships are established effectively. Think about it ... just as Jesus faced many awkward moments (and plenty worse) for our benefit, so we are called to 'put ourselves out there' to be a blessing to others. Great opportunity here!
I am always struck by the incredible diversity of the leadership team. Check this out:
1. Damien. Camp director, and overall top dog (and Texan of all things), along with ...
2. Allan (Camp TED worship leader, Allan was with us for a Champfleuri TED many years ago, but we had missed him in recent years. I'm really glad to be back in touch with him. Jon Steel will get plenty of time with Allan, as he is going to join the worship team as the lead electric guitar.
3. Buan (pronounced Boone). Buan is a Wheaton undergrad and grad student from a few years ago. He spent some of his youth in France, and has always had a hankering to return as a missionary. He met Theresa while at Wheaton, and they formed their plan to be involved with youth camping ministries in France, so I'd say Champfleuri is a direct hit. Buan brings all kinds of things to the table (outdoor specialist, capable of music leadership, very relational, small group leader, etc.). These three make up the prime leadership of camp, and they simply do a great job of learning from past history, bringing effective changes to camp, while maintaining the baseline of quality and grace.
4. Thomas ... recently married to Carine. Thomas is responsible for the upkeep of the facilities, and Carine now runs the kitchen and facility staff. Both are entirely capable of helping with language translation and small group leading. Seems like a great pairing to me.
6. Tom, Ann, Cindy ... leadership team for the Dillon, CO group. Tom is the youth leader at the church, and Cindy and Mom are moms of students on their team.
7. Janet and Sarah ... leadership team for the St. Louis group ... Janet is also the Mom of one student on their team. These 3 moms form a very effective team of many behind-the-scenes activities ... Damien's right hand team!
8. Steph!! What a great blessing this young lady is, as she fits perfectly the model of being intentional with her life for God’s glory … and loving our kids and the French kids. She is leading a small group, and constantly on the move.
9. Add a support staff that hails people from northern Ireland, Switzerland, UK, Chicago, and France (etc.), and this becomes one of the finest melting pots I've ever interacted with! Just a taste of the diversity God designs into his kingdom, now and into eternity. He is the common bond to bring together a team that loves the Lord, and shows love to a variety of kids that may or may not have heard the gospel message before.
OK, a good start to the blog ... and a good preparation day ... and I'm going to try and have our students blogging regularly, although they will be very busy starting tomorrow!
Appreciative of our home team!
Bon Nuit, Jim
Update (Liz, Corey, Steph)
Howdy y'all (Corey's words)! We made it to France alive! We arrived at 2pm (France time) yesterday, and faced a little bit of jet lag, but as of 8:15pm tonight we are all a little bit more awake! We spent all day playing volleyball and soccer, getting to know the other American teams from Summit County, CO and Saint Louis, MO. Tomorrow afternoon the campers arrive and we are suuuuperrrr (Steph's words) excited! Steph and Mr. Shack spent all day in counselor meetings preparing for the twelve days of camp. We are looking foward to seeing how God is going to work during TED! Please keep us in your prayers as we head into a very full twelve days of building relationships and sharing God's light with the campers.
Liz
Liz
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
A new feature has been added to the Blog.
You can receive email notifications when new posts are made.
To set it up type your email address into the box under
FOLLOW BY EMAIL in the upper left hand section of the screen and click submit.
You will be prompted to check an incoming email to complete the set up.
This sets up DAILY (not immediate) email notification.
You can receive email notifications when new posts are made.
To set it up type your email address into the box under
FOLLOW BY EMAIL in the upper left hand section of the screen and click submit.
You will be prompted to check an incoming email to complete the set up.
This sets up DAILY (not immediate) email notification.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Leaving today (July 2, Nate)
Tuesday July 3rd
We are leaving today from the church at 2 pm. Our flight leaves from Philly to London at 6:20. We will stop in London then get a connecting flight to Lyon. Then bus from Lyon to Grenoble and then be picked up from there and brought to the camp by van. Please be praying for all of us as we embark on this amazing experience God has called us all to.
Nate
We are leaving today from the church at 2 pm. Our flight leaves from Philly to London at 6:20. We will stop in London then get a connecting flight to Lyon. Then bus from Lyon to Grenoble and then be picked up from there and brought to the camp by van. Please be praying for all of us as we embark on this amazing experience God has called us all to.
Nate
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Prayer Requests...
That we would have the time to prepare for this trip in the midst of our crazy daily lives
… from getting to the work days to thoroughly going through the short-term missions
workbook so that Christ can teach what he wants for us to know on this trip and in our
daily lives.
When we are with the students we would not be fearful of talking to them about our
faith but stepping out of our comfort zones to serve Christ in the ways he wants us to.
Growth in being apprentices for Jesus Christ … for both the students joining
Champfleuri TED from G3 and those French students that already know Him.
New believers!
Patience with the language barrier and that I would not give up on those who don't
speak English very well.
For God to give me the strength to share my relationship with God to others and not be
afraid of doing it.
Safe travels, and willingness to interact with new people, out of our comfort zone, just
as Christ did.
That God would work on the hearts of the French campers before we arrive, that they
would be receptive to hearing our testimonies and the Gospel.
For the overall safety and health of our team and the French campers who are
travelling.
A cool, calm, and loving mind.
That we would trust that God will put us in places where he can use us to do the exact
sharing He has in mind.
Time management. Time zone changes along with early morning wake-ups can be
pretty exhausting. Please pray for us to be able to function on whatever level of sleep
we get.
That we would be ‘intentional’ … stepping out of our comfort zone to get to know the
kids who may not speak English well or are not very outgoing.
That God would give us hearts of worship so that we may help lead more effectively
and not be caught up in the details of worship.
That God would give me a servant's heart so that I would go to serve as Jesus did …
and not to ‘be served.
That the Holy Spirit would be preparing our hearts and the hearts of the French kids.
That we may have the mind of a servant as we prepare and when we go over help us
all to be humble and remember we are not better than the French kids.
That He provides everything that we need. That we rely on Him and trust Him with this.
That God uses us, gives us confidence, boldness, clarity, discernment … that we are
honorable stewards of the Gospel.
That French (and American) campers know God for real: intimately, personally, deeply.
That their relationship with the Lord continues after Champfleuri is over, and that He
provides them with support when they get home.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
3 Days To Go! (Jim)
Tomorrow (Sunday) the Champfleuri 2012 Team will be commissioned in front of both Great Valley and Grace Valley congregations. This is our last real step toward our preparation (other than the G3 Champfleuri 'Send Off' Night on Monday), because on Tuesday, we are boarding for a seven hour flight, then a two hour flight, then a two hour bus ride, then a 45 minute van ride right to Champfleuri staff's welcome.
We know we are blessed to be ambassadors for Our Great God, and partners with so many, including you who are praying for us and have supported us through this point ... we ask that you continue your prayers and your support. Thanks!
We ask that you pray for a safe journey for us, and for the Missouri and Colorado teams who will be meeting us at Champfleuri on Wednesday. More to come just prior to our departure on Tuesday!
The Champfleuri 2012 Team
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