It was my first visit to Chapel Porth and I had eagerly anticipated the trip. On arriving, a fellow camper informed me that once I had sampled the week's events I would want to return for many years as indeed he had done himself.
The worship sessions led by Pastor Les Ackie and his wife, Irma, were both thought-provoking and life-affirming. The theme of the week was Heroes & Heroines. Much time was spent looking at Bible characters in the heroic sense and this was followed by a consideration of issues such as fear, courage, decision-making and personal growth understood through the lens of faith. Personally I found the Sabbath morning service particularly moving and left the main hall with tears in my eyes along with many others.
The camp allowed all of us the time to de-clutter our lives. We had the space to reflect, solidify existing friendships and develop new ones. There were countless impromptu caravan visits from various neighbours who popped in and out for refreshments, laughter and more serious debate.
Children, of course, were another focal point. Every child benefited tremendously through the activities on offer which included visits to the beach, swimming, cycling, badminton, mini-Olympics, table tennis, art lessons and self-invented games. They also loved the freedom of the countryside which meant they could run and play safely.
My first visit to Chapel Porth will remain with me forever. It was a time of reflection on belief, witnessing the selfless devotion of individuals for the good of others and a reconnection with the beauty of God's work. I would like to offer a sincere 'thank you' to the Ackie family, the support staff and all the families who visited, for working together to create a week that my family and I will always remember.
[David Bryan]