Whistle While You Work...

For the last weekend in April I opted to go to the Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF) annual conference work and study summer camp rather than another exposure trip.

So halfway up the mountain in Milagrosa, Santa Catalina 50-60 youth descended upon a one room church. Some really got into the camping experience and brought only a tent and pillow - while others naturally came equipped with their air mattresses and laptops.

But when the time came to build the cement floor of that little church - every single one of them joined in.



They made new friends as they lived out the camp motto of "Bonding with God through Work and Play."

And youth being youth the world over - whether here in the Philippines or back home in Canada, they did manage to ensure there was play!

So besides the manual labour and intellectual labour (in bible studies and reflections)there was a talent show, Mr and Mrs. Summer camp Competition, and an Amazing Race.

The fun and camaraderie that began to build took on a unique expression on the final night at the Agape meal. There everyone joined in in feeding each other before themselves - all by hand - mouthfuls of rice and Pancit (noodles).



Throughout it all-laying in the tile cross in the floor - carrying sand, cement, rocks and water; racing through the hills, music filled the air.

So At first I thought of the old snow white song "Whistle while you work" - but the youth, as usual taught me something new. For it was invariably songs of praise and worship that filled that little church and spilled out to the surrounding village.

Thanks be to God!