IGNITE CAMP

Nine years ago, the senior school Christian group underwent a revitalisation process, and with it came a name change: Fuel. Soon after, an annual camp was established for the community: Ignite.

By Miss Jiye Kim Chaplain and Christian Studies Teacher

Perhaps it was only a matter of time until we would focus on the book of Daniel and the image of the fiery furnace to consider how to live faithfully, fearlessly, and faultlessly in the eyes of God and one’s peers.

Ignite 2023 was that moment. Four staff and 60 students from Years 7-12 gathered at Cru’s Lake Macquarie campsite over the weekend of 31 March - 2 April to enjoy what many called “Fuel on steroids”. Indeed, much like our weekly Wednesday lunch gatherings, the camp ensured good time was given to sessions, arts & crafts, games, and peer-led discussions and testimonies – all areas that facilitate community-building centered on the word of God.

The sessions were especially treasured by everyone. Whether students are investigating Christianity or desiring to live each day as followers of Jesus, it allowed for them to witness and participate in Christian community. The student band led us in singing to celebrate what God does for his people. We heard from student leaders who testify to the truth of this in their own lives. We were taught from the book of Daniel by Anna Moss, Women’s Ministry Facilitator for the Presbyterian Church of NSW, who called us to take heart because God is the true King on the throne: one who is with us, for us, and loves us. Finally, we discussed these ideas in peer groups to encourage one another.

Other highlights included activities like rock-climbing and pier visits, evening yeargroup chats (overseen by senior student leaders and staff), late-night group chats in cabins (not as strictly overseen), and the continuous chances over the weekend for bonding between students of different year groups. In their feedback forms, many noted that the only downside was that Ignite wasn’t a whole week!

Fuel is led by the Chaplaincy team in conjunction with the Fuel student leadership team. Other Christian faculty members get involved whenever possible, and we welcome others in our wider PLC Sydney body to come visit and pray for our community. We seek to create a dynamic and inclusive community for Years 7-12 students to come and experience life with Jesus.