At Summit, we are all about using camping ministry as a powerful, effective and unique avenue to share Jesus with young people… and we’ve seen it work.
Meet Angus Macbeth, a second year Summit trainee.
While working at Summit, Angus has been learning how to meet young campers where they’re at and how to share his faith with confidence.
When Angus recently led on a Year 7 school camp and met a young boy named Mike*, he had the opportunity to put his learning into practice.
Mike brought an incredible energy to camp. Though he tended to run off and keep everyone on their toes, his presence added a vibrancy that made camp special for Angus.
Throughout camp, during activities like ziplining and sailing, Angus spent time getting to know Mike. By encouraging Mike to step out of his comfort zone in a new environment, Angus was able to have meaningful conversations him, including about Jesus.
As they talked each day, Mike remained genuinely curious and eager to explore more about what it means to follow Jesus. Angus recognised Mike’s openness and guided him through deeper conversations by listening thoughtfully and encouraging him to ask big questions.
On the final day of camp, Mike filled out his camp survey. He checked off that he wanted to recommit to his faith, showing a renewed motivation to follow Jesus! What struck Angus even more was that Mike had marked every box to receive resources – a Bible, guide to reading the Bible, devotional book and Q & A sheet – that would help him grow in his faith.
When Angus handed the resources to Mike, Mike shared that he had been confused because he had been told by others that God wasn't real. With compassion, Angus assured Mike that choosing to follow Jesus would be the best decision he could ever make, emphasising how deeply God loves him, no matter the doubts or struggles he might face.
Mike’s excitement was undeniable. He immediately wanted to pray, and with the support of his teacher, he did just that. After the prayer, tears began to flow as Mike experienced the overwhelming joy of connecting with God.
One of the most heartfelt moments for Angus was when Mike shared that his dream job was to come back to work at Summit when he grew older – a wonderful sign of his growing faith through the impact of camping ministry.
Praise God for Mike and for all the lives touched during the camp.
And for trainees like Angus who are committed to making a difference through camping ministry and eager to see young people’s lives transformed for Jesus.
*Name changed for privacy reasons.
