What an impressive camp for 15- to 17-year-olds – growing them in their faith in God. It was held in Hamilton, hosted at Central Baptist. I attended for the first time this year as a small group leader – my husband Daryl has been involved in helping Merrilyn and Dawn Withers with this camp for many years. It was excellent seeing first-hand how God is using this camp to touch teenagers lives.

Merrilyn and Dawn both gave fantastic messages each evening; organised speakers for the spiritual growth seminars on many subjects from preaching to sharing your testimony to baptism; and organised the many workshop leaders to encourage gifts the youth have, from dance to drama. Luke Kaa-Morgan did an excellent job of encouraging the youth to lead the worship themselves, and lead inspired worship himself.

Each evening was a special experience as we heard young people share their journeys to God and with God. It refreshed my soul to hear how God was speaking to these young people and showing his love to them.

The love, compassion and wisdom of Merrilyn, Dawn and the youth pastors and leaders present was fantastic. The young people felt safe and able to make steps in their spiritual journeys. Three hundred young people impacted for God. The next generation of our churches, keen to put God number one in their lives.

Thank you Merrilyn for your vision in starting this annual camp. You are the Baptist equivalent to Mother Teresa – endlessly and humbly giving of yourself to grow God’s kingdom here in New Zealand, among our youth. We are indebted to you and blessed to have your wisdom, experience and passionate leadership of BYM.

I pray this camp continues to be a blessing to our Baptist churches and God’s Kingdom!

– Lochie Judd
Tawa