What did you do over Summer? Missions and camps #2

Another one of our students tells us about what she did this summer.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

My name is Rachel and I am from a town called Newtownards just outside Belfast in Northern Ireland. I am a 4th  year Sports Management student at the University of Edinburgh.

What were you involved with over the summer? 

Each summer I go home to Northern Ireland where I am involved in various Scripture Union camps and missions.  This year I was involved in 3 teams across Northern Ireland.  The first team I was a part of was called Enniskillen 360, which aimed to go 360 degrees around the town of Enniskillen with the good news of the gospel.  The week’s programme involved: a kids club each day where we looked at the life of Peter and the cost of following Jesus; dance, sport and art streams for teenagers; a teenager drop-in and detached work in the evenings which involved going into various estates and working with predominantly travelling and roman catholic communities. 

I then spent two weeks up at the picturesque north coast, at Portstewart CSSM. For those who don’t know, CSSM’s are very popular in Northern Ireland, particularly in sea side towns.  Contrary to popular belief, CSSM stands for ‘Children’s special service mission’ and not ‘Come single, soon married’.The mission was absolutely action packed, lasting for two weeks, with a team of 70 leaders, over 350 children each day and three sessions per day, it is safe to say that we all went home and slept for a long time afterwards.  I was working with the 12-14 year olds, where we had around 50 children each meeting.  Our themes for the fortnight were ‘God’ and ‘Jesus’, so we looked at topics such as creation, heavenly father, the cross etc.  We also shared our testimonies, played sport, had a social, did a photo challenge, made most of the beach and had small group discussions. 

My final team was called ‘Millisle CSSM’, a team which I have be a part of for the last three years.  This sea-side town is close to home, only 7 miles from where I live.  It is a much smaller area, with a lot fewer children coming each day, but it is very much a geographical area where Jesus is not known personally to a lot of people.  In the past two years we have seen this mission grow as we now do detached work in the neighbouring village.  I was working mostly alongside the teenagers this year were we looked at the armour of God and did similar activities as Portstewart. 

What were the biggest things you learnt through being part of that?

Each individual team taught me a lot.  Travelling to Enniskillen, give me experience in working with and sharing the gospel with people from deprived backgrounds and of travelling and Roman Catholic communities.  I saw so clearly how people are desperate in need of the gospel and how we need to go out and reach the unreached- we can’t expect them to come to us.  Going into the estates was daunting, as you were always unsure of people’s response, especially as you were going into their territory, but God showed me his faithfulness and his sovereignty over every situation. 

I came away from Portstewart very encouraged particularly by the faith of young teenage girls.  Seeing their passion to understand the bible more, support each other and pray for one another was very uplifting and a joy to see and be a part of. 

Through Millisle, I had the privilege of building on relationships I have been building over the past couple of years with people in the area.  I was also reminded of the importance of continuity of leaders in teams. year Sports Management student at the University of Edinburgh. 

How does what you learnt help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

Despite my mission teams finishing, mission hasn’t.  God has called me to different mission fields-amongst my course mates, my family and sports teams.  Being a servant of Jesus, being on mission and telling people about him is not limited to people I meet over summer nor do I need to be on an organised team to share him with others.  People are everywhere and in need of knowing Jesus personally, God has called me to particular places and I need to be bold in sharing him.  I need to bring everything before God in pray and have faith that God will use me in my weakness for his glory.

What did you do over Summer? Missions and camps

I hope you enjoyed reading the stories of those who were at Contagious.  Some of our congregation were at other camps and missions this summer.  Sophie and Kirsty tell us about their experiences.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

I'm Sophie and I'm third student at the University of Edinburgh where I study Theology. When not at uni, I'm at home in Kent. 

What were you involved with over the summer?

This summer I have been involved in two different areas of mission.  The first involved helping in a Christian school in South Africa called Tiger Kloof.  There I worked with all ages but primarily with the 6/7 year olds.  I also put on a bible study with another girl covering 1 John.   

The second thing I did was help lead on Iwerne holidays which is an activity holiday for teenagers, where they hear talks from the bible.  It was my first time leading on one of these camps.  I had a great time getting alongside the GCSE girls I was with, and investigating the gospel with them.

What were the biggest things you learnt this summer and how does what you learnt help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

I learnt a lot about working with young Christians and it was amazing to be a part of a school where Jesus was at the heart.  The South Africa trip was lonely at times and so I think it helped me to rely more on Jesus as a wonderful friend who is there no matter what!

On the camps I got to see what a joy it is to serve Christ and I learnt how without him and his Spirit no ministry is effective.  This was a great truth to be reminded of as I go into my third year to just be completely reliant on God. 

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?
My name is Kirsty and I work at Virgin Active Health Club.

What were you involved with over the summer?
For a week during the summer I was a leader at an SU Camp in Scoughall.  Throughout the week we were learning about Mark's Gospel and doing various fun activities like Boating, BMX Biking and Bivouacking.  This was an amazing experience and I would totally recommend it to anyone who is thinking about doing a camp next summer.

What were the biggest things you learnt this summer?
One of the biggest things I have learnt from God this summer is that everything is in HIS control and in HIS timing.  We have to keep our focus on him and trust him and let go of our grip on things that we think we need or want.  If something is in God's will for our lives then it won't slip from our grasp, God is much bigger than that.  "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16 v 9

How does what you learnt help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?
Having Jesus as my Lord and Saviour has turned my life right side up and I am so thankful for his unconditional love.  I am constantly learning new things about God as I read the Bible and from talking to other Christians.  I pray that I would keep on trusting God, keep my focus on him and his timing in future circumstances.

If you know of someone who has an interesting story to share please get in touch at womenatcharlotte@gmail.com.

Contagious #4

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year? 

I'm Anna, I'm in S6 and I like to get involved in as much as I can, whether it's in school or out of school - usually something musical or arty.  My health unfortunately hasn't allowed me to do so over the past couple of years but this year I'm better and will be sitting some Highers and AS’s too. 

What did you do over the summer?

Over the summer I went to Mallorca, went on Contagious, went to St. Andrews with a couple of friends and then went camping.  Contagious was a definite highlight of my year so far!

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like? 

Contagious was fantastic - the bible teaching was so well done and I felt so happy and satisfied coming home after a week of bible study and activity with a bunch of great, enthusiastic people.  It lived up to every expectation and more.  I've already recommended it to a lot of people as I know they would say the same if they went next year.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

I learnt so much at Contagious.  As someone who missed all of their GCSEs due to bad health I was worried about what was going to happen with me and where my life was going to go.   I heard everything that I needed to hear in that week which filled me with encouragement in the knowledge that God has a plan for us and to know that he promises to fulfil it.  Obviously there were so many other things which were equally as amazing learnt but it really struck me to hear that in particular, reiterated throughout the week.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

Really what I just answered, in that we have nothing to fear, no matter what happens.  God has everything sorted and to know this gives me confidence and reassurance.  I have already felt a change in my perspective and the way that I think from knowing this alone.  The fact that God can use suffering for the good of those who love him is amazing and I will go on trying to apply what I’ve learnt in my everyday life. 

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year? 

My name is Zara and I have just started 4th year.

What did you do over the summer?

Over the summer I went to Italy with my family, met up with friends and went to Contagious.

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like? 

Contagious is a week long conference with roughly 5 hours of bible study a day.  The 5 hours were split into 3 smaller studies which were all very different but all really helpful and encouraging.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

The biggest thing I learnt from Contagious is that God has a plan and it will be done.  God may throw obstacles in this plan but it is all for a greater purpose.  I now know that any plans I have, may not always work out the way I want them to but I now have a greater confidence that God has a better one for me.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

Coming back from contagious I am now even more determined to talk to my non-Christian friends about the Gospel and make the most of our conversations.

Thanks to Anna and Zara for sharing.  Next week we will be hearing from those who were on missions/camps this summer. 

Contagious #3

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

My name is Abigail.  I am in 4th year at school.

What did you do over the summer?

Over the summer I participated in two teen Bible teaching events; Keswick Convention Youth and Contagious.

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like?

Contagious is a bible conference, teaching young people more about the Bible. We did LOTS of bible studies in different ways (small groups, seminars and big talks.)We also did various fun activities throughout the day and also had some time to ourselves.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

The main thing that stood out to me at Contagious was that we are all dead in our sin, and there's nothing that we can do to make us right with God.  However, God's gift of grace makes it possible for us to be with Him.  Also, another thing that struck me was that we can have confidence that God will continue working in our lives and we will be raised with Him, and if we ever have doubts about that, we can look to the cross and find hope in Christ. 

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

What I learned at contagious has helped me to live as a Christian as I am now more keen to learn more about God and I have also recently really enjoyed going to church on Sundays and listening to God's word.  Also, since Contagious I have felt more equipped and excited to talk to my non-Christian friends at school about Christianity.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year? 

My name is Innes, and I am a 5th Year student at High School.

What did you do over the summer?

I went to a Christian Conference called Contagious.

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like?

Contagious is a very intense conference for 13-19 year olds, with 5 hours of bible teaching a day but also lots of fun activities and getting to have fellowship with brothers and sisters from all over.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

This year, one of the most encouraging things I took away from Contagious was that you don't need to rely on your own strength- it's not how much faith you have, but the power of the one your faith is in.  And since it doesn't depend on us, we are guaranteed to make it to the finish he has set out for us, eternal life with him.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

Contagious always gives you confidence to go back out into the world, trusting in what you believe.  It trains you to look at God's word for yourself, so that you can learn and grow in your personal relationship with the Lord.  It teaches you how everything you learn shouldn't just stay in your head but go to your heart, and everything we ever do should come beck to our worship of God.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year? 

My name is Lois, and in 4th year at school.

What did you do over the summer?

During the summer I was very busy.  First I went to Rangers camp.  I next went to St Andrews and then to California with my family.  To finish off summer I then went to Contagious which was so good!

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like? 

Contagious is great.  You get to learn all about the Bible as well as spending time and getting to know other Christians.  Each day we followed the same routine, we would first go into to small groups and study Romans.  We then had seminars which were very interactive and fun.  Then we would have free time.  In the evening we had the Big Teach which was very helpful.  After that we would have an activity such as a wide game or a movie.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

One of the biggest things I learnt at contagious was that God chose us to be with him when he had no reason to choose us.  We didn't do anything extraordinary and yet he chose us.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

I came home from Contagious feeling more excited to go to church. I also felt more determined and not ashamed to tell my non Christian friends at school about Jesus.

Thanks to Abigail, Lois and Innes for sharing.  Come back tomorrow for the final instalment of the Contagious interviews.  

Contagious #2

Today another two Contagious attendees share their experiences.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

My name is Bethany.  I am a Christian, and I am in 4th year at school.

What did you do over the summer?

Over the summer I went on holiday with my family to France, then I went with my Grandparents to Keswick and we went to the Christian convention there.  Also I went to a week long Bible conference called Contagious, and lastly I spent a few days in St. Andrews. In between I didn't to much other than going to church on sundays, spending time with my friends and reading.  

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like?

Contagious is a week long conference for people who are in S4-S6.  Each day you have a small group meeting in the morning then have two interactive seminars, after lunch you have a free afternoon where you can take part in some organised activities or just hang out with your friends.  After dinner you have a time of worship and a short sermon which is called the Big Teach. Once that is over we have a small snack then go to sleep.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

One of the main things I have learnt from Contagious is that even though we have been chosen by God to be with him, we haven't been chosen because of anything special that we have done, God has chosen me because he has chosen me.  Also an amazing thing that I was reminded of was the fact that before we were Christians we were dead and useless, which makes it even more amazing to think that God chose me even though I was dead.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

What I learnt at Contagious will help me live more for God this year because I now have even more reasons to be thankful to him.  Also this has made me more determined to have conversations with my friends at school about my faith, and hopefully read the Bible with at least one of them, because I know that it isn't up to me if my friends become Christians instead I know that if they hear the Bible, God will do the work and hopefully change them.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

I'm Jennifer and I have just started S5.  I have attended Charlotte every Sunday since I can remember and a lot of my closest friendships have been formed through church. 

What did you do over the summer?

I had a very busy summer this year, I went to a scripture union camp at Lendrick Muir, went to Spain for two weeks with my family, went down to the Keswick convention to visit my gran and I also went to contagious!

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like?

Contagious is a bible youth conference based at Strathallan Boarding school.  It is a week of very intense bible study.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

I learnt about how God has foreknown us since the very beginning which is amazing.  Also I was reminded how important it is to tell my non Christian friends about Jesus. 

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

I am going to try and go through the word one to one with one of my non Christian friends from school. Also it made me strengthen the want to live everyday of my life for Jesus! 

Thanks to Bethany and Jennifer for sharing.  Check back on Friday for the final interviews.  

Contagious #1

Let’s hear from the first of our Contagious attendees.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

My name is Alison and I am in 5th year at school.

What did you do over the summer?

Over the summer I went to two teen Bible events: Keswick Convention Youth and Contagious.

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like?

Contagious is a youth Bible conference with LOTS of Bible teaching!  We studied the Bible three times a day in different ways: in a small group in the morning where we focused on the first few chapters of Romans, in a seminar where we tackled big Bible themes such as predestination and justification by looking at what the whole Bible says about that theme and we had a 'Big Teach' in the evening which was basically like a church service where we sang, prayed, learned about things we could do everyday to grow in our Christian faith and listened to a sermon.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

One thing that has stuck with me since Contagious is that one of my biggest questions has been answered: 'How can I be sure I won't fall away?'.  Our last Big Teach looked at Judas and how easy it is to 'look' like a Christian and how many people fall away.  I remember Andy asking all the leaders to stand up and name someone they know who has fallen away from the faith-everyone single one of them named someone and that scared me.  However, at the end Andy said that it is not the size or strength of our faith that will keep us going till the end but the strength of the One in whom we have put our trust.  I left Contagious with the words of Philippians 1v6 being very real and precious to me "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus".

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

I have learnt so many things at Contagious which help me live as a Christian woman.  I've understood the love of God much more than I used to which helps me keep going everyday.  I've also been more excited to go to church and other Christian events to help deepen my understanding of the Bible and to prepare me for 'life on the battlefield'.  One of the most important things I've learnt is that we should be meeting up regularly with other Christians to read the Bible and pray, not just on a Sunday.  I've learnt that the Church is a gift from God and we should build up and strengthen each other daily.

Could you tell us a little about who you are and what you normally do during the year?

My name is Anna and I'm in S4 at school

What did you do over the summer? 

This summer, I had rangers camp at the very beginning.  Then went to our main family holiday to Wales which was really nice.  Then had Contagious which was AMAZING.

Could you tell us a little about what Contagious is like? 

Contagious is amazing and is really worth going to.  It's really intense with how powerful the teaching is but the way it set up is really good because even tho it's 5 hours a day, it defiantly doesn't feel like that.  It's really interactive and along with the teaching they involve banter in the seminars and big teaches which makes it really enjoyable.  The people are really nice and friendly and they are always happy to listen to you or help you out with any queries you have.   You make a lot of friends as after the teachings there is always some free time.  It's a time to get to know other Christian friends, and having Christian friends always helps getting through life cause being a Christian at high school can be a challenge.

What were the biggest things you learnt through Contagious?

A lot stuck out for me that week and some were: that we can trust God that he knows exactly what is happening in our life and that he has a plan for our lives - "God has a plan it will be done to make his people like his son".  God's plan is to make us like Jesus even though we will never be like him as he was sinless and we are sinful.  Also that anything God has started he will complete, he won't leave anything half complete and just forget about it.  We can't do anything without God’s help and God should play a massive part in our lives. We are dead in our sins however cause Jesus died for us we are given a new life and a new life the dead receive!  And true salvation leads to true change and that's what really stood out for me because if we don't fully believe we can't have a new start and we won't have really changed fully unless we fully believe.

How does what you learnt at Contagious help you live as a Christian woman the rest of the year?

The material you get taught at Contagious is always really relevant and can relate to life situations.  It helps knowing that God has a plan for us and that our life is in his hands to control.  He will always be there for us, and if times are troubled he will know what to do if we fully believe in him.

Thanks to Anna and Alison for sharing.  Check back on Wednesday for the next interviews.  

What did you do with your Summer?

I hate to say it but summer is pretty much over.  The schools are back, the students are returning to university, the temperature is dropping and nights are drawing in.  But hopefully you all enjoyed the sunny weather we did have over the summer and have great memories of fun times to remember.  

As a group of women at Charlotte I am sure our experiences of summer are many and varied.  Many of us still had to work.  Others took time off to spend with the kids.  Some went away on short term mission trips.  Others served on camps, while others attend those camps as young people.  If we were away on missions or at camps, summer can be a time when we get an intense period of feeding from God and his word.  It can be when we can look back and identify real growth in our faith or it can be a time when we were challenged to put our faith into action.  Whatever it was for you this summer, the biggest challenge is continuing in what we learn when we get back into the normal routines of life.  One thing that can help is simply taking the time to reflect over what we were taught and make time to write down what we learnt.  Sharing it with someone else and then praying it through.  If you were away this summer, why don't you take time to do that?

This month on the blog we have invited some of us at Charlotte who either were on camp, mission or still in Edinburgh to reflect over what they did this summer, what they learnt about God and how that impacted their life.  Firstly, we will be hearing from some of our young women who went to Contagious.  

I hope it encourages you in your faith as you hear the experiences of others.  If you know of someone who has an interesting story to share please get in touch at womenatcharlotte@gmail.com