CRUview Autumn 2019: The Lake Mac Edition

CRUVIEW Autumn 2019

c a M e k a LO THE

EDITION

Inside this issue:

2-3

A Remarkable Opportunity

4-6

Finding Jesus at Lake Mac

7-9

It's Not Just About Sailing

10-12

Sailing and Salvation

AUTUMN 2019

CONTENTS

PAGE 1

PAGE 2-3

PAGE 4-6

PAGE 7-9

PAGE 10-12

PAGE 13-14

The Big Picture

A Remarkable Opportunity

Finding Jesus at Lake Mac

It's Not Just About Sailing

Sailing and Salvation

Hope Found

PAGE 15-16

PAGE 17

PAGE 18-19

PAGE 20

PAGE 21

Fifty Years a Follower

The Influence of Christian Camps on Gen Z

CRU® Ministry & Property Updates

Thank You

CRU® Community

UPCOMING EVENTS CRU® VOLT Winter Date: 1 Jun 2019 Time: 9am - 1pm Location: Excelsia College

Crusader Business Breakfast Date: 18 Sep 2019 Time: 7 - 8:45am Location: QVB Tea Room

CrossTrain 2019 Date: 30 Sep 4 Oct 2019 Location: Kiah Ridge

A training event for CRU Camp volunteers including a keynote about Evangelism in Camping Ministry, encouragement from the Bible and practical seminars to grow volunteers. For more information, email cruleaders@crusaders.edu.au

Connect with current and former CRU® Camp leaders, directors, and those who led or attended CRU Groups, for breakfast at the QVB Tea Room. Hear about the work God is doing through CRU's different ministries. For more information and to RSVP, call Matilda Slade on 02 9874 8933 (opt 4) or email matilda.slade@crusaders. edu.au

CrossTrain is a week-long camp for students in Years 9-11 that trains young Christians for ministry and Christian leadership in their schools. Campers will meet with other students who are passionate about serving God and sharing their faith with others. Book today at crucamps.com.au/crosstrain

Schools Ministry Week of Prayer Date: 9 - 13 Sep 2019 Location: All schools

Crusader Women’s Fellowship Date: 9 Sep 2019 Time: 12 - 1:30pm

Lake Mac Prayer Night Date: 6 Jun 2019 Time: 6:30 - 7:30pm Location: CRU® Eastwood Office

Lake Mac Redevelopment Updates

A week dedicated to praising God for the work that He is doing in our schools and praying for revival amongst the students. For more info, email kellie.thomson@ crusaders.edu.au

Meet with a group of ladies who faithfully pray for the work of CRU®. For more info and to RSVP, call Philippa McCredie on 02 9874 8933 (opt 4) or email philippa.mccredie@ crusaders.edu.au

Please join us for a night dedicated to praying for the Lake Mac campsite redevelopment. For more info, email damien. wang@crusaders.edu.au

Would you like to know more about the Lake Mac Redevelopment?

Visit www.growlakemac. com.au, contact Damien Wang on 02 9188 9718 or at damien.wang@ crusaders.edu.au

CRUVIEW

THE BIG PICTURE Gary Hill, Executive Director

The Lake Mac Edition Breakfast by the lake. Locally-sourced, freshly

It was on the shores of Lake Macquarie that I first

cooked food. Close companions. Idyllic? I’m not

responded to Jesus’ call, recognising His greatness,

sure that the scene described in John 21 was quite

and His mercy for me a sinner. He knew me, yet He

so comfortable. Some had been fishing all night,

loved me! As I write, I mark the 40th anniversary of

without any success. Suddenly tired bodies were

that day on the Crusader camp when He produced

overwhelmed as a massive netload – “151, 152, 153

new life in me. That was a joy and it’s been a joy

fish! Big ones! Surely a record!” – strained every

ever since seeing leaders sharing Jesus’ gospel with

muscle. A meal was consumed, but accompanied by

campers at that site.

at least one awkward conversation. Verse 17 reports that Peter “was hurt” by Jesus’ repeated question of

All the more, we long to see lives transformed and

whether Peter loved Him.

people set on a new path which gives God glory.

While challenging, we can direction from this passage.

Jesus, who had died, has risen and this account describes

“

along the way, but there’s no

We long to see lives transformed and people set on a new path which gives God glory.

the third post-resurrection meeting with His disciples (14). He is revealed as Lord over Creation in

“

draw great comfort and

(There may be discomfort better way.) That’s why we are investing so significantly into the resources to support this: building, expanding, modernising the facilities at Lake Mac so that more and

more lives can be impacted.

the miraculous catch of fish (5-12), yet He is not remote. His conversation with Peter demonstrates

The physical structures are incredibly important for

an intimate relationship, a personal knowledge, a

this, but ultimately it is about God receiving glory as

depth of purpose for this man. The repeated enquiry

His incomparable riches in Jesus are revealed.

parallels Peter’s denial on the night of Jesus’ arrest, and in doing so, lifts Peter from that tragedy to

This special issue of CRUview focuses on Lake

reveal a new calling. The sheep had been scattered,

Mac. The vision for the campsite is found on pages

but now they are to be gathered, cared for and

2-3; the interview with Nate Gale highlights the

fed. A new direction for Peter emerges (15-17). He

immediate need to expand the site’s capacity; while

might have been tempted to return to fishing, but is

McCrindle Research’s article reminds us of the

instead to follow Jesus, the great Shepherd. It is to

particular value of Christian camps as a tool to reach

be a life-long call (18-19).

young Australians. As you read, please praise God for what He is doing in so many lives, and pray that He would be glorified in every stage of this project.

Page One

AUTUMN 2019

A REMARKABLE

W

opportunity O

e stand on the cusp of a remarkable

Parr, gifted land on the shores of Lake Macquarie to

opportunity. It’s a transition which, with

Crusaders in 1946, expressing that he desired it to

God’s blessing, will bring an enormous

become a centre for youthful Christian activity. Over

harvest. It’s the opportunity to grow Lake Mac. We

the following decades, work parties led by Hugh

have reached this point because of the vision and

Braga and others, converted bushland into activity

sacrifice of CRU’s pioneers over 70 years ago.

spaces, added tents, then cabins and meeting halls with kitchens.

Those who led on the very first Crusader camps in the 1930s, recognised what an extraordinary

Campers benefited from this work for many

opportunity camps provided. An opportunity to

decades, but by the end of the 20th century it was

participate in community where Christian truth

clear that both sites needed redevelopment and

could be taught, explored and observed. Yet the

expansion if they were to positively impact children

venues previously used for these camps became

for the next 50 years or more. Galston was upgraded

unavailable after World War II, when the government

first, with new ensuited and air-conditioned cabins

requisitioned them for the rehabilitation of returned

being added so that accommodation rose from 120

servicemen and women. Could camps continue?

to 208 beds. This work saw annual site occupancy increase from 9,330 camper nights in 1999 to 30,561

Crusader Council prayed and investigated options.

in 2009, enabling more kids to hear the gospel on

Up stepped Dr Paul White, the Jungle Doctor,

camp, and generating a financial surplus which

recently returned from missionary work in Africa.

fuelled an expansion of Schools Ministry.

He explored land near Hornsby, and generously took out a mortgage on his own house to acquire

Growing Lake Mac was the next target.

a property at Galston, which now features CRU’s Galston campsite. Inspired by Dr White's

Over the last three years we have been developing

involvement with CRU, his medical partner, Dr Leslie

plans for the site. The architectural firm of

Page Two

CRUVIEW Glendenning Szoboszlay won a competition to advance these plans to prepare for lodging a Development Application. This involved consulting with schools, indigenous groups, ecologists, bushfire consultants, traffic management, planners and many others and resulted in some exciting designs. We were thrilled on 13th February 2018 when our DA was unanimously approved.

We have been so thankful for the support of the CRU® community. The vision of reaching an additional 20,000 campers each year has been embraced. We are so delighted that your generosity has provided $18.45m of the $19m target set for our fundraising. The Federal Government has also contributed to the project an additional $5m, recognising that the site will boost employment in the region while also providing a great resource for

Pictured: Artistic impression of the new Lake Mac site

community development.

Stephen Edwards Construction have now begun

The redevelopment also features appropriate

work on Stage 1. When this stage is complete we

recognition of the indigenous history of the site. Two

expect to have additional ensuited accommodation

existing middens are being preserved, marking the

for 208 people, together with a new dining room

spots where indigenous communities would gather

(capable of being divided to provide separate

together. Displays at each cabin and in different

areas for up to three groups), a new boatshed,

public areas will highlight Awabakal culture and also

two additional meeting rooms, a new bivouac area

the ministry of Rev Threlkeld of the London Mission

capable of sleeping 120 people under canvas, and

Society who established a mission on the western

“

side of the lake. There is a great opportunity for schools to reinforce components of the curriculum which have an indigenous focus at Lake Mac.

The vision of reaching an additional 20,000 campers each year has been embraced.

The new Lake Mac will blend opportunities for exciting water sports with challenging bushland activities, plus the chance to reflect on the history

“

of the region. Those who are drawn to the site will also have the opportunity to grow in their

new activities (including a 140 metre dual zipline).

relationship with God as they explore the Bible’s

The existing A-frames and hall will remain as an

message and meet in Christian community. As

option either for small groups, or large camps keen

McCrindle Research’s in-depth analysis of the

to use every possible bed, for at least another 4

National Church Life Survey noted: “Christian camps

years. Construction will be focused on the northern

are not only great at bringing people to faith, they

half of the site, and on the 40 hectares across the

are also excellent for building deeper faith, strong

road, allowing camps to continue while construction

disciples and Christian leaders.” Praise God for the

is being undertaken.

privilege of sharing this good news with a new generation of campers at Lake Mac!

DONATE NOW to complete the picture at Lake Mac!

Partner with us to give an extra 20,000 campers each year the opportunity to encounter Christ. Please send your gift today using the Grow Lake Mac pledge card enclosed.

AUTUMN 2019

Page Four

F I N D I N G J E S U S AT

Lake Mac O

CRUVIEW

G

race Mercieca recently returned from a CRU® Camp at Lake Mac, where she made a big decision – to become a Christian! But she almost missed out on the opportunity to attend camp. Difficult financial circumstances meant Grace’s parents almost cancelled the camp registration of Grace and her sister

Jess. Thankfully, the generosity of supporters to the CRU Camper Sponsorship Fund meant that assistance could be provided to help Grace and Jess attend camp and hear about Jesus.

Here, Grace shares her story: what made her want to follow God, how life has changed, and her hopes for the future.

CRUview: Tell us about yourself!

CV: What do you love about Lake Mac?

Grace Mercieca: My name is Grace Mercieca, and

GM: Lake Mac is just a really nice place. It brings

I go to Brigidine College. My dad is a software

back great memories from all my camp experiences.

engineer, my mum is a nurse, and my sister, Jessica,

It's really safe and I feel like lots of people can go

is currently in Year 11 and has just started to drive.

there and it's totally fine. Sailing in particular is really

I've got two cats, and my two best friends are twins

freeing, if that makes sense! I really enjoy sailing on

– they literally live five doors up. We've been friends

Lake Mac.

for eight years, so it's really fun.

CV: What did you think about God before camp?

CV: Why did you go on a CRU Camp last summer?

GM: Before camp, even though I go to a Catholic GM: We first found out about CRU Camps from

school, I didn’t feel very connected to God. I have

some flyers that came in the mail. I’ve been going on

not been to Sunday school since I was little and

CRU Camps since Year 3, when I went to Splash with

we’re not a family that goes to church as we’re

my sister. When I reached Year 7, I was really excited

always busy on Sundays.

“

God will unconditionally love you and He’ll never stop loving you, and hearing that was an amazing feeling.

“

because I’d be able to go on Sail Mania at Lake Mac.

CV: Tell us about how your views of God changed

Sailing was my favourite activity at Splash and I was

on camp.

excited that on Sail Mania I’d get to do exactly that, every day of the week!

GM: So, I had two leaders, Ellen and Naomi, and I remember after one discussion group, Ellen

CV: What were your first impressions of camp?

and I were just talking. Ellen said that God will unconditionally love you and He’ll never stop loving

GM: I was really excited because I knew I wanted to

you, and hearing that was amazing.

make more friends and everyone was so nice. The leaders are amazing. My leaders in particular were

Another time, Ellen and I were talking and she said,

just awesome. They were really there for us so I felt

"You can always rely on God, no matter what."

very welcomed and excited to be on camp.

Page Five

AUTUMN 2019

The speaker on camp, Johnny, would do these

CV: What are your hopes for the future?

amazing talks every morning and I’d be so excited to listen to them and I’d always get something out

GM: When I was little, I always wanted to be like

of them.

my mum and be a nurse. Now I might become a veterinarian because I really like animals. I want to

By the end of camp, I’d decided: I wanted to be

help people and animals!

a Christian.

I just had an interview with my year coordinator to CV: What do you think about God

become a mentor leader, and I feel

and Jesus now?

like if I did become this leader, I could inspire a lot of people.

GM: Jesus is someone that you can talk to and He will always love you.

Please pray that I’ll stick with going

It’s good to have Him there and

to youth group, and keep liking

have faith in Him.

it and enjoying it! I hope to learn more about God.

CV: How has your life changed since camp?

We also met Grace’s dad, David (pictured left), and asked him a

GM: Ellen convinced me to start

few questions.

going to youth group, which I have! I came home and said to my parents, “Hey, I’m

CV: Why did you send Grace and Jessica (her

going to go to Christ Church from 6:30-8:00pm on

sister) on CRU® Camps?

Friday,” and they were fine with me going. I can just walk up there.

David Mercieca: They always have a great time at CRU Camps and make new friends. They always get

Youth group is a community that I can be part of

something out of it when they go on camp. I think it

because they believe the same things I do. It’s like

gives them independence when they’re younger too.

having an “outside family” that understands you and

CRU Camps were recommended to us. Every time

you can always rely on them if you have a question.

we picked them up, we saw them make new friends, so it’s been very good. I’ve always had confidence

CV: Are you still friends with the people you met

that CRU would take care of them on camp.

at camp?

CV: Can you share a little bit about your experience GM: Yes! On camp, you make this tight bond and

with using the CRU Camper Sponsorship Fund?

those friends end up being your best friends! The first time my friends and I hung out after camp,

DM: I was completely thrown by this generosity.

I think we were all expecting it to be really silent

I had a back injury and was unable to work for

and awkward, but it wasn't, we were all talking and

four months whilst awaiting surgery. For the first

laughing. So that was really good. We're hanging

time, I really thought I had to cancel my children’s

out watching a movie next weekend, we've been

camp bookings last summer. It was awesome to

ice-skating together and we talk about memories

hear your team’s response, by offering the camper

of camp!

sponsorship. It allowed us to maintain stability for the girls, particularly during the holidays. We are incredibly grateful.

Page Six

CRUVIEW

IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT THE

sailing O

Page Seven

AUTUMN 2019

A

s a child, Nate Gale thought he was a

As a camp director, Nate has the privilege of seeing

Christian. After all, he went to church on

many campers visit Lake Mac, enjoy a week on the

Sundays and his parents were missionaries.

water and be transformed by the message of Jesus.

However, on his first CRU® Camp at Lake Mac, Sailing Adventure, he really understood for the first

“For me, one of the most exciting kids we’ve ever

time that being a Christian was about a personal

had on camp was a kid named James*. In his first

relationship with Christ.

year, he was one of the toughest campers I’ve had in my life… he was so difficult, but he was great fun and

Back in 2002, as a 13-year-old in Year 7, Nate

had a real love for the people around him. As he was

absolutely loved camp and the sailing, but he

leaving camp that year I asked him, ‘If you were to

recognises that what he took away from camp was

walk away [from camp] with one thing, what would

even better. He recalls, “When I came on this camp

it be?' He replied with, 'Oh, I might try and read the

17 years ago, there were 20 to 25 kids and 6 leaders

Bible sometime this year.’”

who served Christ amazingly. We went sailing every

“

The camp that I direct is a sailing camp, but the reason why we sail is so that we can form relationships with the kids and tell them about our faith in Christ.

“

day and I developed friendships that lasted for life.

Nate shares that James came back the next

But the most important thing for me was that I

year, “Instead of mucking around, he actually

developed a fantastic relationship with Christ.”

sat in, participated in discussion groups and asked questions!”

The school years passed, but finishing high school didn’t mean Nate's Sailing Adventure days were over.

By the third year, Nate was blown away by the work

He started leading and eventually started directing

that God had done in James. He recalls, “On the very

the camp, which is what he still does joyfully

first night we sat down for dinner with one of the

today. Although he loves the sailing, he is excited

kids who was really nervous and wasn’t sure what

by the unique opportunity that comes with camp

to do. James just said, ‘I came on this camp three

ministry. “The camp that I direct is a sailing camp,

years ago, and I was an idiot, but I’m here now and

but the reason why we sail is so that we can form

I’m a Christian. I can tell you this camp is going to be

relationships with the kids and tell them about our

the best camp you ever have, but the sailing doesn’t

faith in Christ,” shares Nate.

matter, it’s what happens in the mornings that matter, which is when we do our God times.’”

Page Eight

CRUVIEW

Pictured: Nate (second from left) with other campers and leaders on Sailing Adventure, 2004

Nate can't wait for the Lake Mac site to be

"There are so many kids that are keen to come on

redeveloped and expanded. “There are so many

camp and the exciting thing is that stacks of them

people who are keen to come on camp. Every year

aren't Christians! It breaks my heart to turn kids

we fill up. For the past 3 years we have gone past

away from hearing about Jesus."

“

Redeveloping this site gives an amazing opportunity for 20,000 extra kids to hear God's word each year. When you hear that, you would do anything you possibly could to help with that.

Nate understands that Lake Mac’s facilities desperately need updating to make them more suitable for modern use, however, he sees a greater reason. He shares matter-of-factly, “For me the chance to improve this site is not just about putting bricks in the ground, it’s not just about a comfy bed to sleep on, it’s not about a warm shower, it's about each and every kid that comes... it’s about their relationship with Christ. Redeveloping this site gives an amazing opportunity for 20,000 extra kids to

“

our maximum numbers… every year we have turned

hear God's word each year. When you hear that, you

people away,” he shares emotionally. He continues,

would do anything you possibly could to help.”

Page Nine *Name has been changed for confidentiality reasons.

AUTUMN 2019

SAILING AND

salvation O

T

he first time Fiona Copeman came to Lake

boat, with the right people and set the right course

Mac, she was just six weeks old. Her parents,

to win. I was never ever in the winning boat, but it

Arthur and Annabel, were directing the Senior

was always a great day!”

Sailing CRU® Camp, and brought their newborn along with them.

Camp is often a place where strong friendships are formed, and that was definitely the case for Fiona,

It definitely wasn’t her last time. As she grew up,

who remembers, “I made some really good friends

encouraged by her parents, she attended various

on camp that I came back again and saw year after

CRU Camps at the site, especially the popular

year, and then we started to be friends outside of

sailing camp, Sail Mania.

camp which was lovely.”

Fiona has many fond memories of her time on Sail

For Christian kids, CRU Camps can play a vital role in

Mania – particularly on the boats.

helping them to grow in their faith and understand what it means to follow Jesus, outside of the context

“Each year we would have a race on the last full day of camp. It was so exciting trying to get on the right

Page Ten

of their local church. Fiona shares:

CRUVIEW

Pictured: Fiona with her husband Ernest and two children, Charlie and Arthur

“I grew up in Kincumber on the Central Coast, going

with some other kids who were my age and also

to a small Anglican church with my family. There

loved Jesus – so it was a place where I felt that I

were no other Christians my age at my church and I

could relax and be myself. I am also so thankful

“

I looked forward to camp each year when I would get to hang around with some other kids who were my age and also loved Jesus - so it was a place where I felt that I could relax and be myself.

to the many leaders who patiently and lovingly answered all my questions and were such important role models to me. I also thought all the leaders were so cool, so you didn’t have to be a complete dork to follow Jesus!”

“

Having enjoyed and been impacted by the Sail

didn't know many young Christians. I looked forward

“I wanted to make sure that there were people to

to camp each year when I would get to hang around

continue running camp and that kids would be

Mania camp so much as a young person, Fiona was thrilled to get the opportunity to become a leader and later camp director.

Page Eleven

AUTUMN 2019

loved for who they were, and given the opportunity

significant: “Recently at church, I met a girl who had

to meet Jesus. I also had so much fun on camp as a

been in my cabin on Sail Mania about six years ago.

camper, and it also looked fun to be a leader!

She walked into church and she showed me the

I kept returning as a leader because I

Bible that I gave to her on camp when

formed relationships with campers

she prayed to become a Christian. She

and other leaders that I really

said to me, ‘Fiona, I am still going to

wanted to continue each year –

church!’ Even if that was the only

it was remarkable to see what

kid who kept following Jesus after

God was doing in people’s lives

camp, it was totally worth it, but

(campers and leaders) from

year after year I hear stories of kids

year to year.”

coming to know Jesus and having this beautiful relationship with Him.”

Reflecting on why she believes so much in camping ministry, Fiona says,

When Fiona recently visited Lake Mac,

“I think camps are a unique opportunity

she said joyfully, “I just felt at home.” It’s a

for kids to get away from the distractions of life.

sentiment shared by so many former campers and

They have so many pressures and so much going on

leaders, and Fiona’s hope and prayer is that the next

in their lives, so many things they have to do. But

generation will also feel at home at CRU® Camps as

camp offers an escape from this pressure and gives

they hear about Jesus – including her own kids:

“

Even if that was the only kid who kept following Jesus after camp, it was totally worth it, but year after year I hear stories of kids coming to know Jesus and having this beautiful relationship with Him.

“

them the space to think about God, to be presented

“God willing, when they are old enough we will send

with the gospel. They really have the headspace and

them on Wind and Waves and Sail Mania, and then see

the resources to experience Jesus.”

them as leaders! How wonderful would that be!”

Fiona has a particularly special story of a former camper, for whom her time at Lake Mac was

This project is funded by the Australian Government through the Building Better Regions Fund

CRUVIEW

Hope O FOUND

W

ellen Fu works in the Summit Team as

When Wellen was nearly 18 he was invited to go to

an Outdoor Leader. He emits a laid-back

church. “I think for the first time I realised what it

vibe and laughs often. It would be easy

meant to be loved, I understood the gospel for the

to assume that Wellen’s childhood was like any

first time. I realised that the gap in my heart could

other – a nice childhood, a nice family, a nice life.

really only be filled with Jesus. Now, my relationship

However, his memories of growing up were quite

with my family is better. There is no doubt that

the opposite with his teen years filled with hurt and

becoming a Christian has influenced that. God

brokenness. Thankfully, it is the hope found in Jesus

forgave us through Christ, and in receiving that gift,

that helps free him from past hurts, brings healing to

I can let go of past hurt.”

relationships, and gives him immense joy in sharing the gospel with kids on Summit Camps.

Wellen was invited to his first Christian camp experience as a leader on CRU Hype in 2016. He

Wellen grew up in a non-believing home. His

fondly shares, “I loved it so much. I cried so much

parents had separated when he was young and

on that camp because it was my first opportunity

he experienced a number of difficult relationships

to tell kids about Jesus.”

within his family. With the absence of good role models and after falling in with the wrong crowd

Wellen’s emotional experience on CRU Hype

during high school, Wellen was struggling, “I didn’t

influenced his next steps.

really know what I was doing. I constantly felt awful and tried filling gaps with friendships and

He recalls, “A few months later, I dropped out of Uni

relationships and they just kept letting me down.”

because I realised that I wanted to tell kids about Page Thirteen

AUTUMN 2019

Jesus. I joined the Summit Fellowship Program and

somehow, the conversation is always brought up.

loved it.”

During sailing is probably the best time to connect.

Every time we sail we get an opportunity to get to know the kids. For some reason, sailing

One of Wellen’s fondest Summit Camp

puts the campers at ease and their

experiences was at Lake Mac, “I was

walls come down. There’s also the

leading a Year 7 mixed discussion

jetty – they love the jetty and just

group and the campers were so

chatting about God there!”

thankful to be able to speak about God in an environment where they were able to experience His

He continues, "One of the most

creation. I noticed Sam* because

common things Summit Leaders

he started crying when I shared

hear from the campers is, 'Oh, I

a little about my life and the hope

didn't realise Christians were normal.

that Jesus brings. Sam came up to me

I thought Christianity was just for old

afterwards and said that the discussion

people. You've actually assisted me in

really resonated with him. Sam was struggling

changing that view!'"

with life and family, the need to do the right thing and please others, and was just so thankful to hear

It’s evident that there is something special about

the message of hope. Sam wasn’t a Christian at the

the Christian camp context. Wellen enthusiastically

“

“

I realised what it meant to be loved … I realised that the gap in my heart could really only be filled with Jesus.

time of coming on camp, but I was able to give him

explains, “It’s like a little community for a few days.

a bible and a devotional resource.”

We do activities together, eat together, share personal experiences, and that does something.

Wellen also describes how he is always encouraged

Somehow, God uses that setting and the

by how God is at work through camps, especially at

connections we make. He makes the Bible stories

Lake Mac, “Sometimes we’re just a bit doubtful that

come alive so that the gospel becomes real for

kids will be interested in the message of Jesus. But

the campers."

Do you know a young adult Christian who:

Page Fourteen *Name changed for confidentiality reasons

Has a passion to see kids come to know Jesus? Loves the outdoors? Seeks to live a life that will count into eternity? Then please give them a gentle 'tap on the shoulder' and encourage them to apply today at www.summitfellows.com.au

CRUVIEW

FIFTY YEARS A

follower O

A N D I T A L L S TA R T E D AT L A K E M A C

L

ake Mac will always hold a special place in the

David Campbell, that I realised, although I knew

heart of Adrian Lamrock – because it’s where

much about the gospel and had been brought up

he first put his faith in Jesus.

with a reasonable knowledge of the Bible, I had never actually done anything about it. There was no

“When I came on my first Crusader camp 52 years

relationship between God and me. David Campbell’s

ago, I heard the gospel explained. As the week

careful and considered discussions with me led me

progressed it became very clear to me that I needed

to make a commitment to Jesus, sitting under a

to do something about it!”

tree looking out over the lake, just near Honeymoon Cottage. I’m not sure I really understood much about

Adrian is quick to note that his journey to following

that commitment at the time, but I knew I wanted

Jesus had begun before camp:

to be a Christian. God has held me to Himself ever since, often despite myself!”

“I grew up with Christian parents and siblings. We were always taken to Sunday School and then church.

For young people who have heard about Jesus

This is an inestimable blessing, for children to have

through their families, or through school, CRU

their parents and grandparents pass on Biblical

Camps provide an opportunity for them to get out of

knowledge and example. I’d never really doubted that

their normal environment and think for themselves

God existed, nor that Jesus was God’s Son.”

about what the truth of the gospel means.

However, it wasn’t until his first CRU® Camp that

As Adrian notes, “You’re putting them in a

Adrian really considered what impact this truth

community where the gospel is the central bit. Yes,

would have on his life. He remembers:

you’re here for the sailing. Yes, you’re here for the games. Yes, you’re here for the friends you make.

“I attended my first sailing camp (Junior Boys Sailing

But to me, the gospel and the teaching of Scripture

No. 2) in December 1966. It was during this camp,

is the central part. You’re taking people away from

both in the talks and in the quiet times, led by Dr

their normal situation and they’re able to focus on

Page Fifteen

AUTUMN 2019

something that maybe they’ve never thought about before.”

Adrian’s faith in Jesus has shaped his whole life.

As he looks back, he reflects, “Being a Christian through my teen years was not easy and I think there were some difficult times but, as I have said, God has never let go of me and has continued to reveal Himself through the Bible and through His leading in my life. This has impacted my choice of career – teaching, so that I could have lots of time to serve on Crusader camps! It has been foundational in my marriage and family life [Adrian and his wife, Kerrie, have just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary] and my involvement in the various churches of which I have been a part. It’s amazing for me to reflect on the guidance God has shown me in so many aspects of life, including my time as Crusaders' Executive Director, from 1987 to 1992.”

Pictured: Adrian at Lake Mac's Honeymoon Cottage.

“

Adrian reflects back to that first camp at Lake Mac where he started following Jesus.

becoming a Christian there has governed what my life has become and the person I am. Being a Christian does change the whole way you live your

Lake Mac will always be special to me because becoming a Christian there has governed what my life has become and the person I am.

“

“Lake Mac will always be special to me because

life. If it doesn’t there’s something wrong.”

Now that Lake Mac is undergoing redevelopment, Adrian is excited about bigger and better holiday

opportunity we can to get children along on camp

camps reaching kids who were like him, who need

because they may not hear the gospel otherwise.”

a push to make a commitment to Jesus – as well as those who wouldn’t otherwise have ever heard

Adrian is so enthusiastic about the future of the Lake

the gospel. He shares:

Mac site. He shares with heartfelt emotion, “It’s 52 years since I became a Christian at Lake Mac. Kerrie

“Children aren’t going to church like they might have

and I now have six grandchildren and I hope they will

done back in my time, but they will come on a camp,

all have the blessing, challenge and encouragement

because it’s fun. A lot of my school friends came to

that comes from attending CRU and Summit camps

Crusader camps because they were fun. They weren’t

at Lake Mac. I’m delighted that my eldest grandson

interested in the gospel but they heard it, and some

recently attended his first Summit Camp at Lake Mac

responded. I think we need to be looking at every

in March!"

Page Sixteen

CRUVIEW

THE INFLUENCE OF CHRISTIAN CAMPS ON GEN Z

By Geoff Brailey, McCrindle Social Researcher

Introducing Generation Z

O

ne in five Australians (4.7 million people) are a part of Generation Z, an emerging generation aged 10 to 241.

Our tweens, teens and late adolescents are being raised in a digital and globally-connected era.

This shapes the way they find their identity and community, learn in our educational systems and discover their place in society. At McCrindle, we describe Generation Z as: •

Visual – They prefer YouTube as a search engine to Google.

•

Social – They connect frequently through online platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram and Snapchat.

•

Global – Australia is a culturally diverse country, one in four Australians are born overseas (27%)2.

•

Mobile – They will have 17 jobs across 5 different industries during their careers.

•

Digital – They spend more time interacting through online platforms than in face-to-face relationships.

3 benefits of Christian camps: Influence, identity and integrity Christian camps in Australia are providing a pivotal role in helping today’s emerging generations explore faith, discover their identity in community and

of people who do not identify with any religion3. In this increasingly secular environment, Christian camps are playing a key role in helping introduce emerging generations to the Christian faith.

In a recent study conducted by Christian Venues Australia (CVA)4, 15 to 29-year-olds revealed that camps were listed in the top 3 most influential factors towards coming to faith.

Benefit #2 – Discover identity without distractions Christian camps give Generation Z an undistracted context to learn more about themselves. In a time-poor, digitally-oriented era, camps offer Generation Z a great way to experience face-toface relationships with fewer digital distractions.

Well-designed camp programs offer ‘phone-free experiences’ where technology and apps can be utilised post-camp to support ongoing discipleship.

Benefit #3 – Authentic relationships are attractive According to McCrindle’s latest Faith and Belief Study, the biggest attractor to Christianity is seeing people live out a genuine faith5. Christian camps provide Christian role models and Christian peers for Generation Z so that the emerging generation can see every day Australians living out their faith with integrity, in all of life’s different seasons.

Camps are essential for today’s emerging generation

experience authentic relationships.

because they offer an authentic experience of a

Benefit #1 – Influence towards Christian faith

chance to see everyday people, of all generations,

In Australia, one in two people (52.1%) still identify as Christian (12.5 million people), however, three in ten Australians (30%) are part of an increasing proportion

Christian community. Camps give Generation Z a living out a genuine faith. They provide the time, atmosphere, relationships and space to explore life’s big questions in a loving community.

Page Seventeen Australian Demographic Statistics, ABS, 2018 Census of Population and Housing, ABS, 2016 Census of Population and Housing, ABS, 2016 4 Impact of Christian camps, CVA & NCLS Research, 2016, http://www.christianvenues.org.au/impact/ 5 Faith and Belief Study, McCrindle 2017, http://faithandbelief.org.au/ 1

2 3

AUTUMN 2019

C R U ® M I N I S T R Y & P R O P E R T Y U P D AT E S We are thankful for the great work God is doing through CRU. Stay updated with everything that is happening in our various ministries and properties.

“

‘In this camp I learned what it is to be a Christian, and because of this, I now consider myself a Christian. I learned that God and Jesus love us all the same and forgave all our sins.’

‘A big thank you to you and your staff!

We are grateful for all your efforts in keeping Polly* safe from anaphylactic triggers. Polly’s first camp experience has been very positive and sets her up well to enjoy future outings with increased independence, a sense of security and well-being. Many, many thanks.’

Garrett, camper on Beach Blitz

Parent of camper, Ravenswood Year 4 Summit Camp

‘Praise God that David*, on his Year 7 camp, was actively seeking to find the truth. He asked many questions throughout camp and on the last day, he sought me out because he wanted to become a Christian! Praise God that despite not knowing much about God at the start of camp, David now knows and loves God and took a Bible and devotion home with him.’

Dan Shaw, Summit Camp Leader

HOLIDAY CAMPS

GALSTON

Page Eighteen *CRU Camper Surveys, Autumn 2017-Summer 2018/19

•

Give thanks for two new camps that will be running for the first time this winter. Praise God for the privilege to share Jesus with more campers and thank Him for the opportunity to connect families with local churches.

•

Praise God that 90% of CRU® campers say that camp has helped them grow in their understanding of who God is.

•

Give thanks that this recent autumn season saw over 450 campers and 150 leaders on 10 camps.

•

We are thankful for God's protection during a major storm in February and that damage to the buildings was minimal. Praise God for the team who cleaned up after the storm so that the site was ready for the school which arrived the next day.

•

Thank God for the encouraging feedback we have received about our staff and food. We seek to improve and grow the services we provide so that each group has a wonderful and memorable time with us.

•

Pray for our kitchen staff as they cater for three large study camps throughout the upcoming winter holidays.

CRUVIEW

CRU® WEST

SUMMIT

•

Give thanks for CRU® West’s Inter-CRU event. When it first started last year, 8 students attended. However, at the recent Inter-CRU in March, 35 students from different schools attended and were encouraged to keep living for Christ in their schools.

•

We were able to run a new activity camp, CRU Quest, for the first time in April. Praise God that interest in the new activity camp was overwhelmingly positive, camp reached full capacity, and many kids heard about Jesus.

•

CRU West’s Annual Partnership Dinner will be held on the 13 May. Pray for those who will attend and hear about CRU West’s ministry in Perth schools, and ask that God will raise up many prayerful and financial supporters.

•

During Term 1 of 2019 the Summit Team had the opportunity to run 41 school camps. Praise God that almost 4,000 campers came on camp. We thank God for safety, fun, learning, and the way that He worked in the hearts of these campers as the gospel was proclaimed.

•

Eight new Ian Holt Memorial Fellows joined the Summit Team in January. We praise God for bringing them to CRU®, the way He has equipped them for ministry and how He has already been using them to grow His kingdom.

•

We're very thankful that so many schools are excited by the prospect of running camps at the redeveloped Lake Mac. We're thrilled that the building work has started, but please pray for us as we run camps alongside a construction site in the coming months.

•

This year, over 5,000 students will be meeting each week in CRU School Groups in both junior and senior schools. Please pray that these students will grow in their faith and encourage one another to live for Jesus in their schools.

•

Praise God for the opportunity to train over 700 junior CRU School Group leaders through our FIT program, which will be held in 8 different regions across NSW and the ACT this year. We give thanks for the opportunity to equip and inspire primary school students to love God and learn how to serve Him, through quality Bible teaching, games and creative activities.

•

With a record number of sales this year, we’re thankful to God that so many schools are using the CRU Group resources. With teachers and students becoming increasingly busy, it is a great way to support their ministry. Please pray that as the students engage with these biblical resources, God will bear much fruit for His kingdom.

We are currently writing a new series on Colossians.

SCHOOLS MINISTRY

We are hiring!

We are seeking additional staff to join our Summit, Lake Mac, Galston and Schools Ministry teams. Please pray for God to fill these roles. See www.crusaders.edu.au/careers Page Nineteen

AUTUMN 2019

T H A N K

you i

CRU® is so thankful for those who faithfully give their time, money and efforts to support our ministries. We want to say thank you to these three people, who have played a vital role in the work of CRU over many years:

PHILIP SEDDON

ANNA COHEN

Philip’s first involvement with CRU® began in the late 1950s. He fondly remembers being led on camps by Jim Kidd, having cold showers, 6am exercise classes and being encouraged in his Christian walk. Philip went on to lead on CRU Camps at Colo (a formerly CRU-owned campsite), attended Saturday Night Meetings (meetings similar to youth groups that CRU used to conduct) and helped at working bees at the Lake Mac and Galston campsites.

For the last 9 years Anna has faithfully served as a volunteer cook on the summer CRU® Camp, CRU Hype. The campers and leaders are always astounded by this act of love. She serves them by giving up her time to cook all meals and snacks for the entire camp, often in the boiling heat of the Aussie summer. She has put the Colossian 3:23 principle of working for the Lord with all your heart into action on every camp.

Johnny shares, “Growing up in China, I never had the opportunity to get to know Christ when I was young.” After coming to Australia, he came to faith at his local church in Epping. He first connected with CRU when he was encouraged by his friend to grow in his faith and leadership by serving on a CRU Day Camp. Since then, he has also helped clean the Eastwood office and the Galston campsite on a casual basis.

Anna shares, “Many years ago, I was asked by a friend to help out in the kitchen for a CRU Camp. Now I can’t imagine a year without serving on camp. Serving in this way has become a staple of my Christian life.

The work of CRU is critical in sharing the gospel of Jesus with kids from all backgrounds. It also gives campers and leaders a little glimpse of heaven because of the great Christian community and fellowship we all experience on camp.”

He says, “The ministry of CRU is so important to reach kids where they are at, through schools and holiday programs. It plays a critical role in supporting churches as it helps kids hear the gospel and get connected into youth groups.”

Philip is a retired Chartered Accountant who attends St Andrew’s Anglican Church Wahroonga.

He continues to support CRU financially and through prayer.

Phillip has left a gift in his Will and is also excited about being involved in supporting the Lake Mac Redevelopment “it will provide great facilities to allow many more campers to hear and hopefully respond to the gospel, and have great fun as well!”

Thank you, Philip, for your faithful partnership in the gospel over many years. We are so encouraged by your constant prayers and financial investment in God’s work through CRU.

Page Twenty

We are so grateful for Anna’s service as a volunteer cook on CRU Camps. She is an amazing example of how the gospel compels us to serve in sacrificial ways which prompt campers to explore Christ.

JOHNNY FAN

Now working as a community nurse, he is a financial supporter of the Lake Mac Redevelopment project. He reflects, “Because of my experience of seeing kids changed by the gospel on CRU Camps, I wanted to contribute to the Lake Mac project.

The thought of more kids attending camps and experiencing God’s story and love is exhilarating.”

Johnny, thank you for your support of the Lake Mac Redevelopment and your volunteer leadership on camps!

CRU® COMMUNITY

HOOKED • Sarah Cutler & Cameron Isaacs • Courtney Cattell & Adam Saleh • Bec Li & Matthew Scott

HITCHED • Patrizha Canlas & Matt Yeomans – 16 February 2019 • Jessica Mullen & Marco Keryaks – 16 March 2019

HATCHED • Alice & Calum Henderson – a boy, Miller Kent, born 10 August 2018 • Samm & Ryan Turner – a son, Theodore Lindlay, born 22 October 2018 • Felicity & Michael de Bruine – twin girls, Miriam Alice & Piper Felicity, born 24 October 2018 • Heather & Nelson Hunt - a girl, Telisha Joan, born 30 December 2018 • Bridget & James Carroll – twin boys, Jesse Michael & Elias David, born 10 January 2019 • Kristy & James Kinene – a boy, Ezra Zion Luttamaguzi, born 20 January 2019 • Megan & Davo Gunning – a boy, Thomas Ian, born 28 January 2019 • Kirsten & Rob Warner - a boy, Broyce Kenny Cameron, born 17 March 2019

HOME • Stephen Millar 8 January 2019

TEACHERS ON THE MOVE • Dr Timothy Petterson will be leaving his role as the Principal of St Philip’s Christian College, Port Stephens to be the next Head of Shore School from 2020.

• Jason Pilcher is leaving Medowie Christian School to be in a church ministry position in Melbourne.

• Brooke Rennie & Amelia Peterson have started as Youth Workers at Tara Anglican School for Girls.

• Zoe Sidoropoulous has retired as Chaplain at Wyong Christian School.

• Mitchell Forbes has commenced as Chaplain at Belmont Christian College.

• Polly Butterworth & Sarah Hobba have commenced as Assistant Chaplains at Abbotsleigh.

• Stuart Tye has moved from Chaplain at Thomas Hassall Anglican College to Associate Chaplain at The King’s School.

• Jim Dayhew has returned to Thomas Hassall Anglican College as Chaplain.

• Richard Deck has started at Tudor House as Chapel Coordinator.

• Lisa Smith has moved from Northholm Grammar School to Rouse Hill Anglican College.

• Briony Davidson has commenced as an Intern on the Chaplaincy Team at Kambala.

• David Hayman has retired as Chaplain of Macarthur Anglican School

• Nathan Holland has commenced as Chaplain at Wyong Christian School.

• Isaac Williams is leaving Newington College Wyvern to teach in New Zealand.

• Cameron Burke has moved from The King’s School to Shore School.

• Rob Hughes has moved from Assistant Chaplain at The Scots College to teaching at Shore School.

• Alistair Burke has commenced as Assistant Chaplain at The Scots College.

• Peter Morphew has commenced teaching part-time at The Scots College, Brighton campus.

• Rod Farraway has been appointed as the Chaplain of Cranbrook School.

• Toby Sutherland has commenced as an Intern on the Chaplaincy Team at Cranbrook School.

• Garry Brown is retiring as the Head of Mosman Preparatory School at the end of Term 2.

• Peter Grimes is moving from the Head of Northern Beaches Christian Junior School to be the Head of Mosman Preparatory School in Term 3.

• David Gates is finishing as the Head of Scots All Saints College at the end of Term 2.

• John Weeks has been appointed as the Head of Scots All Saints College from the start of Term 2.

• Matt Palmer has moved from Thomas Hassall Anglican College to be the Chaplain at St Paul's Grammar School.

c a M e k LaO THE

EDITION

The Crusader Union of Australia PO Box 590, Eastwood NSW 2122 Ph: (02) 9874 8933 www.crusaders.edu.au ABN 90 213 359 332