IMPACT Youth Gathering

From June 27-30, youth, volunteers, and leaders from across BC and Alberta gathered at Pines Bible Camp near Grand Forks, BC for the Impact Youth Gathering. The theme verse for the weekend was John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

Attendees participated in a number of sessions that served to deepen their understanding of abiding in Christ. Several different individuals led sessions focusing on various aspects of abiding in Christ. Session leaders included Rev. Dr. Mike Kuhn, Rev. Glenn Worcester, Rev. Alex Timm, Dcn. Kathy Cornish, LLL Managing director Lisa Jackson, Rev. Scott Gamble, Dcn. Michelle Gamble, and Rev. Eric Moffett. Each focused on a different aspect of what it means to abide in Christ, from looking at the different ways we know our faith is true to examining how we bear fruit by abiding in Christ. The Sunday divine service also acted as a teaching service, allowing participants to reflect on and understand the purpose of different aspects of the liturgy. On Monday evening, a Q&A session was hosted by Dcn. Samantha Neeb, Rev. Glenn Worcester, and Rev. Alex Timm that allowed youth to ask questions about faith, God, and the Bible.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
– John 15:5

Throughout the weekend, attendees also got to participate in a number of fun camp activities including swimming, climbing high ropes, laser tag, and archery. In the evenings there were opportunities to connect over crafts, games, puzzles, and campfires. On Monday morning attendees participated in a servant event that involved clearing stones from the beach of the Camp’s swimming area. It was a warm morning, but the cool water and incredible teamwork from everyone involved helped make it a memorable experience!

The whole weekend was one of fellowship, learning, and having fun. To close out the final service on Tuesday, those gathered sang “Abide With Me” acappella. It was an incredible moment, and a stunning reminder of why everyone was ultimately gathered together: we abide in Christ.

Anna Scheetz, Lutheran Laymen’s League–Canada

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