LifeTeen camp focuses on what makes a hero

KG NATAI, TELIPOK – When one mentions the word ‘hero’, what comes into mind? Superman? Captain America?

What makes a hero? What does it take to become one? Almost four hundred youths gathered for a weekend to answer these questions and discover the hero in them. With the theme “JPII: Unleash the Hero in You”, this year’s Life Teen Camp was a combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and spiritual revival.

With much anticipation, participants set off for Adventure Cultural Village (ACV) at Kampung Natai, Telipok on 22 Mar 2014. After an hour’s long journey, we arrived at our destination. Despite the warm weather, everyone was in high spirit especially when they saw tents set up for them and the clear, running river!  Participants were given a sneak peek of the exciting adventures lined up for them by Terence Dolinting, the director of ACV. During the night, the lay speaker, Alvin Teoh from Kuala Lumpur caught our attention with his personal and inspiring stories while touching on the topic of self identity. Using our Camp Saint, Blessed John Paul II as a model, he explained that we are destined for greatness if only we do the will of our Great God. We went to bed that night ready to take on tomorrow’s obstacles.

Day Two kick-started with the rosary prayer. The journey begins with 12 groups deciphering a code before embarking on the challenging 3.5 KM trail. Among the tough tasks these participants have to go through are tunnel crawl. They were most excited when they had to swing to other side of the river safely using a rope – the Tarzan swing! Team-building, communication and self-motivation were keys to accomplishing these tasks. In spite of the fatigue and the unexpected rain, spiritual solace took place in the Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr Jeffri Gumu.  The climax of the camp was the inner healing session which took place that night. Many teens stood up to be prayed over and received healing in many areas – relationship with father, mother, siblings as well as struggles with addiction. Truly, we were blessed to witness God’s grace and mercy. The night ended with the participants ‘casting’ their sin and hurts written on a piece of paper into a huge bonfire as a symbol of repentance and letting go.

Refreshed by the Spirit, we received dawn by praying the Divine Mercy on the final day. With the final wrap-up by the speaker and much interaction, we left with joyful and grateful hearts. We left with a renewed spirit, ready to be who God made us to be. We left as heroes echoing the words of our dear Blessed John Paul II, “Be Not Afraid”.

Life Teen ministry would like to welcome all teenagers aged 13-18 years old to join them in their weekly activity, every Saturday, 8pm to 10pm at room F6, Sacred Heart Parish Centre to learn more about their faith, having fun with games and fellowship. For more information, find Life Teen on Facebook at LIFE TEEN, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. – By Angelicia Thane

What do our participants have to say?

I went to camp for fun but my experience during the inner healing was totally unexpected. I encountered God’s great grace and mercy. – Melysa Kimberly, 15

 When I first arrived, I was surprised because it’s in a jungle. I thought it would be like Bundu Tuhan. But it is here that l really feel connected to God and nature. –  Joachim Cagas d’ Cruz, 17

 To be honest, I was angry and surprised at first because of the harsh environment and heavy bags. The whole camp was fun and I love hiking. Most importantly, I learnt how to love. – Hazel Drewberry Ansibin, 15

 This is my third camp and by far, this camp is the best of all. I’ve been praying to feel something all this while during inner healing. This time, during the pray over, I had flashbacks and I knew God has touched my life. – Isaac Yong, 16