In a place where “winters are long, very cold, wet, and mostly cloudy” – where temperature typically varies from 35°F(1.7°C) to 73°F (22.8°C) per weather bureaus – summertime is hands down the most awaited season of the year. It is the time for outdoor activities; trips to the beach and sun tanning; visits to the farm or fruit picking; long drive, and camping!
All these, our JRAM Burnaby Family did last August 03-06! Our families and small groups went to Khlahanie Camp Resort in Squamish, British Columbia for a wonderful time of fun, food, fellowship, and growing together in our faith in God and love for one another.
The preparations done by our youth coordinators and teams, with Pastor Mary at the helm, were simply phenomenal. From our first dinner at the Alice Park, to our camp fire later that day, every single activity was well thought-out and intentional. KC and the rest of the youth did a great job making everyone laugh – and then cry – as we all participated in a question-and-answer game that made us think about our personal walk with God.
One of the most heartwarming highlights of the camp was the family open forum. It was a beautiful time to both hear and be heard; to understand and be understood. As children opened up, parents listened. When it was the parents’ time to speak, the children paid attention. There is simply no better way to strengthen relationships than this mutual giving and receiving of respect, honesty, and love.
The second day of our camp was a day well spent as we all went to Whistler to attend and join the service of JRAM Whistler. After the service, we had a joint fellowship at Alta Lake where we were treated to JRAM Whistler’s extravagant preparations.
Day 2 ended with us driving back down to camp site, all terribly tired but truly thankful.
Gathering of families. JRAM Burnaby Family celebrates Sunday worship with JRAM Whistler Family.
The following day was the highly anticipated youth-and-kids team building activities. How the youth served as big brothers and big sisters to the younger ones visibly impressed the kids in attendance. All together, they teamed up, prepared, and served the day’s breakfast to their delighted and proud parents and elders.
Breakfast is served. Thank you, youth and kids, for the wonderful and delicious breakfast.
While summer in BC is short, we are grateful that we have a God whose love and grace for JRAM Burnaby go beyond all seasons. His mercies are new every morning, and in this love, we thrive.