Young Salvos find faith, friends and fun at State Youth Camps

Hundreds of young people have attended vibrant Salvos youth camps around Australia over the past few months.

BY ANTHONY CASTLE

Hundreds of young people gathered all around Australia from July to October for Salvation Army State Youth Camps.

The youth camps are a chance for teenagers to celebrate, make friends, and strengthen their faith alongside young people from across their states.

“State Youth Camps have been an incredible experience this year,” said Aux-Lieut Mel Purcell, leader of the National Youth and Young Adults Team.

Aux-Lieut Mel Purcell says there is greater unity across youth ministries and leaders.

“We are seeing greater unity across our youth ministries and leaders, as young people and leaders come together with shared purpose and energy.”

Youth camps are always popular among young Salvos from the states and territories, as well as young adults and leaders representing local corps. And many young people find Jesus at these camps and begin a lifelong journey of faith.

State Youth Camps and the number of young people attending were held in the following states:

South East Queensland: Mount Tamborine, June (83 young people).

North Queensland: Townsville, September (29 young people).

New South Wales: Collaroy Centre (Sydney), September (266 young people).

Victoria: Phillip Island Adventure Resort, September (105 young people).

Western Australia: Em Halliday Recreation Camp (North Perth), October (50 young people).

South Australia: Mylor Adventure Camp (south-east of Adelaide), October (80 young people).

Several young leaders said the camps were a fantastic way to introduce young people to Jesus and strengthen young Christian lives.

Claire Castley, Youth and Young Adults Secretary, Western Australia, said: “Young people had opportunities to hear about the Good News of Jesus and apply what they have learnt creatively through their streams, making action plans in Life Labs, and praying in their Corps groups on the last night of camp. We had three young people attend from Karratha (remote north-west WA). We also had young people come to camp from Kalgoorlie, Bunbury and Perth. It was great to see a mix of young people and leaders coming together from across WA.”

Sarah Walker, Youth and Young Adults Secretary (NSW), said: “Over the week, young people were invited into relationship with Jesus, reminded that they are accepted and loved, and that they have something to contribute in building the Kingdom of God.”

Leisa Humbley, Youth and Young Adults Secretary (Queensland), said: “Young adults who attended this year were exceptional, leading and influencing the younger generations in positive ways and also supporting the leadership team beyond what was expected. Some of our young adults led our worship times and ran workshops.”

Mel Purcell, leader of the National Youth and Young Adults Team, said it was also pleasing to see a growth in the number of young leaders.

“This year, we have witnessed a significant increase in emerging leaders eager to serve. With the introduction of SYU (Salvos Youth United) music, young people are connecting in more deeply to the life and mission of our ministry. It’s inspiring to see them engage, lead, and grow, building a strong foundation for the next generation.”

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