23 August 2016 | Põltsamaa, Estonia [Averonika Beekmann] It is not just youth that like camping! The same spirit of exuberance, togetherness, worship and joy can be experienced at the opposite end of the spectrum. That is certainly true in Estonia where, for the past ten years, older members of the Church have gathered together for an annual camp.
The older generation in Estonia know and remember that during the Soviet period church activities, including camps, were forbidden. The only occasion on which people could meet was for church anniversaries. These often lasted more than a day and were greatly anticipated. In the lead up to the camp people were asked to remember these events by bringing along memories and photographs.
“It’s unfortunate there wasn’t more time, there was more material than we had time to look through during the camp,” said Rein. “We talked about how the situation during the Soviet Union period brought us together and helped us all become acquainted, how the church anniversaries created a sense of being one big family,” he added.
On the second day of the camp, Arved Lint and Ilja Stepanov shared God’s Word. Arved talked about the calling to do missionary work that applies to every church member. Ilja focused on the importance of the Holy Spirit and our need for Him. Church members from Viljandi provided music for the fifty attendees.
Rein is positive about the camps. So are the campers. “When we asked if they want the camps to be continued everyone stood up in approval,” he said. That delighted core group organisers, Viktor Noginovski, Ilja Stepanov, Roland Lõhmus and Voldemar Viirsalu.
“God has distributed spiritual gifts throughout the church, not only to retired pastors. By involving more people in the core group, the camp can become more diverse and interesting,” Rein suggested. He hopes that every church can have a contact person so that even more people can benefit from the camps.
Rein said that after the camp he felt a mixture of exhaustion and happiness. “Our Heavenly Father held me in good spirits during the camp. Meeting dear sisters and brothers from different parts of Estonia was uplifting.” He was also grateful for the hospitality and friendliness of the host family. “The readiness to serve and kindness of the Maurer family brings joy to all,” he concluded.
For more photos visit the Estonian Conference website. [tedNEWS]
tedNEWS Staff: Victor Hulbert, director; Esti Pujic, editor
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