Children everywhere benefit from summer camps.
Since 1991, AMAA-sponsored summer camps have directly impacted the lives of thousands of children throughout Armenia. As of 2003, this now includes Camp Sheen Shoghik in Hankavan, Camp Bedrosian in Shushi, and more than 50 others in Armenia and Artsakh.
The program includes a very structured but relaxed participation at all levels of health, knowledge and age. The campers are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the camp including games, dance, songs and peer programmes in an environment conducive to establishing and fostering friendships.
These camps are located in Armenia’s natural hinterland, where there is a great atmosphere of Christian love in all aspects of the day to day activities.
This entire experience teaches children and young adults essential cultural values, drawing from the wisdom of ancient Bible stories, all while in a beautiful, natural environment.
After a few days of the camp, all barriers of communication between children of different cities seem to disappear. Children begin to apply the criteria of love and relationships from the Bible stories and the atmosphere created at the camps.
At the same time the campers are developing new skills and talents and improving their knowledge base by broadening their horizons with their new found friends and acquaintances.
There is no time to get bored as the days are packed with activities that keep everybody interested and challenged to participate. The reason for this is because the activities (such as handicrafts, games that are both physical and mental, discussion groups, etc) are designed to extend them beyond the norm. Children are also involved in theatrical productions and competitive sports.
Throughout these many activities, camp leaders carefully intertwine elements of Armenian legends and history, such as the ancient invention of the Armenian alphabet. St. Mesrop Mashtots gave Armenia its own distinct identity through his creation of the alphabetical characters, providing an Armenian lexicon. As we know, he was one of the great Armenian Christians who believed that the national Christian faith of Armenia was only sustainable through the preservation of Scriptures. This equipped the Armenian people with their spiritual strength.
Like all things, time brings an end and as these young Armenians return to their homes, 3 things becomes certain:
- They look forward to reuniting with their new found friends and strengthening the friendships they already had.
- Their exposure to nature has enhanced their understanding of their environment.
- Their encounter with Bible Stories and Bible events will at some point influence their relationship with God.
National Values
To be a good Christian means to be a good citizen and to love one’s country. Through different ways we attempt to get closer to national cultural values, and learn about the heroes of history through patriotic stories.
Spiritual Values
The atmosphere of Christian love and care of the camp has great potential to transform a child. Not surprisingly, the majority of campers, at their departure, tell their mentors that everyone at the camp loved them and that they had not felt a longing for anything there. It was amazing to hear that those who had attended the camp a few times actually stated that they had seen within themselves social and spiritual improvements resulting in increased self-discipline, respect and concern for others.
Feedback
The campers returned to their families and homes at the end of the camp with anecdotal reports from parents of their surprise because of the positive behavioural changes in their children ranging from basic politeness and obedience to contrite and forgiving hearts.
Praise God for his blessings and we thank and praise God for those who support this incredible ministry.
Simon Totonjian,
Australia
