We are back at home in Aneho and rested up after the holidays. They were busy, but incredible. We were able to organize the first Togo Palms camp from December 26th through December 31st. It was a leadership camp that consisted of young leaders from 18-30 years old. They had to be chosen by their pastor, pay a small fee, memorize John 3:1-21, be single, and already serving in the church. The pastors were to choose the top 15% of their church to send. These young leaders were selected from about 17 different churches throughout the country.
The camp was held in a mobile camp setting in the village of Kpadape. Since we do not have the property purchased yet, we worked with what was available. Due to the facilities, we capped the camp size off at 50.
This kids arrived excited and we believe it got off to a great start. The theme was "be these" (salt and light). Pastors traveled with the campers and worked as counselors. For multiple pastors, it was the first time they were able to work with their young people outside of the church setting. I saw one older pastor kicking a soccer ball with a young girl. This was probably the first time this girl has ever had a father figure spend time with her to play.
The ladies in the kitchen did an excellent job working. We were a bit understaffed in the kitchen, but the ladies worked extremely hard. The kitchen did not have electricity, running water, or sinks. It was all done in an outdoor setting.
The pastors each preached one time and Jonas and I taught the rest of the time. One afternoon we took everyone out to share our faith with people. For some of the young people, it was there first time. The campers only complaint was that they did not have time to go back and visit people a second time. Our hope is that they will continue serving with their pastor at their own church.
By the end of the camp, everyone was tired, but still having a good time. I asked one guy if he was ready to go home for New Years. He said he would prefer to stay because it was better than any celebration he will have when he arrives home.
Our prayer is that these young leaders will go back and influence their churches and world for the cause of Christ.
We do have a rather large album of photos on our facebook page. JJ Alderman or Melissa Alderman
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