To have our very first South Island ISM Regional Camp was a big milestone for us. We have had local camps in the past, but to combine together at Living Springs near Christchurch marked the beginning of a new thing for us in the Southern Region. I believe God is at work as we have been praying for Christchurch, and Dunedin. We are looking forward to seeing great things occurring across the South Island as we pray and ask God to send workers into His harvest field.
On Sunday afternoon of our camp we invited other volunteer leaders who are involved with ministry to International Students in and around Christchurch. We all shared what God is doing in our area, and we prayed for each other, and for the future of this work in Christchurch. Do pray with us for Christchurch ISMNZ.
During 3 nights and 2 days we had 5 storytelling sessions, 6 testimonies, a relationship panel, games, a camp fire, walk up to the top of the hill, and some even went swimming. We were blessed with delicious food from our kitchen team of Tola, Mimi, Jonny and Aaron. Emy was chief organiser, and made sure we all were at the right place at the right time. We were blessed by Promise, and Roxanne who led our times of worship. I am excited by the potential among these young leaders to continue the work that has been started.
It was encouraging to have a good contingent of seekers who had been invited by others to join us. Please be praying with us that the seeds of love and truth planted over this weekend would go deep, take root, and in time produce a harvest.
I must say, that the location at Bellbird heights is fantastic, with awesome views, and not too far out of town. I am looking forward to another camp there sometime in the future. A bunch of keen students stayed on in Christchurch to enjoy the company, and sample some of Christchurch's finest Chinese cuisine. Thanks Tola and Linda for offering great rates at Tui Lodge Motel on Blenhiem Rd where we could stay. Your warm hospitality is recommended.
Jonathan Thorpe
(City Leader, Nelson)