Snow camp. The title brings to mind a group of kids running in the snow, creating snow angels and starting snow-ball fights.
While the annual event, hosted by the Mennonite Church Alberta Youth Leadership Team, does include those activities, it also encompasses so much more. The camp gives youth a break from the stressful school semester and allows them to gather in a fun and festive environment surrounded by God’s nature. With exciting activities, amazing speakers and cooks, and expressive worship, snow camp is a great place for young adults to grow not only in their friendships, but in their faith as well.
Being surrounded by the wonderful nature of God, Camp Valaqua is the best place imaginable where youth can learn about faith, explore new ways of worship, and how to live in Jesus’ name to promote a sustainable foundation for everyday lives.
Carl Adrian, the speaker at this year’s senior high snow camp, spoke on inner peace and mindfulness of self and surroundings. Sessions challenged the campers to think about their relationships with themselves and others in all aspects of life. He encouraged the youth to bring the peace created and fulfilled at camp into everyday society in order to construct a thriving world culture enriched with love and compassion.
He also introduced the idea of a personal mission statement: a moral or belief acting as a foundation for a life of meaningful work.
Before and after these sessions, the camp would gather together and worship collectively through song.
There were also many great activities: cross-country skiing, indoor games, a coffee-house/talent show, and a silent monk-themed supper. Combined with everything else going on that weekend, it was the perfect blend of fun and fellowship for a weekend away from busy lives.
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