Reflections from Dianne Kent, Bendigo Congregation member and Camp Director - Kallara Reunion 2019:
It was an incredibly inspiring faith journey to be able to welcome back Kallara Reunion, with 42 full time campers and an extra five joining us on Sunday to celebrate being Fishers of Men, “You and Me created to be drops of one ocean and waves of one sea”.
We were reminded many times and in many ways of our covenant for the camp. The key words of our covenant being The Worth of all persons, Attention- listening to the spirit, Practice Holy Curiosity, Dare to be Vulnerable, Seek God’s Presence and Discernment- What is God’s invitation for me?
After many meetings and much planning by Anita Grigg, Barbara Woodward and myself. Kallara Reunion was deemed a huge success.
In the words of one camper, on behalf of those that attended: “We all hold much appreciation and gratitude for all the hard work, planning and attention to detail, [of the Camp Team] on the return of Kallara Reunion 2020.
The 40+ people who attended would confidently say, this years Reunion catered for all.“
Many thanks must go to everyone who attended the camp, everyone who volunteered either through classes, washing up and even cooking, and especially to my right hand man - Des Woodward for helping in the kitchen for all of the camp, all helping to create a loving atmosphere to share the word of Jesus Christ amongst the campers.
The three days was enjoyed by young and old, a fun trivia evening with Ben and Anita Grigg, a fantastic concert lead by Rick Sarre with the kids stealing the show with a rendition of Baby Shark.
The weather was fantastic, kids and adults enjoyed cooling down in the blow up water activity centre provided by Andrew Kent. Children participated in classes learning how to be Fishers of Men and a Good Samaritan . Andrew Kent and Emily Eliades brought us to the Fish Bowl each morning and Barbara provided colouring craft and recycled T-shirts into bags.
Malcolm Stephenson and Rick Sarre presented the Adult class and Malcolm also presented a chat under the Gum tree.
We also worshiped at sunset reflections and campfires led by Dianne & Ray Kent.
On Sunday afternoon, the Communion service led by June Stephenson and Lisa Yen; touching our souls in remembering our baptismal covenant and participating in Communion with each other.
Thank you to all who supported our vision to see the return of Reunion at Kallara, we pray that it is here to stay.
Kallara Reunion 2019 was held from the 27th-30th of December at Kallara Conference Centre, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Strathbogie Ranges in Victoria. A serene and peaceful location, the campgrounds back onto native bushland with unique wildlife and scenic walking tracks.
If you would like to express interest in future Kallara Reunions please send an email to enquiries@cofchrist.com.au or keep an eye on our website for details of the camps we are planning at Kallara this year.