Hejce 03 by Sarah

We arrived at Hejce this year in high spirits, looking forward to the apricot jam, sleeping outside, walks in the mountains, cherry soup - and of course the campers arriving the next day. We were not disappointed. It was fantastic to catch up with many returning campers from last year, some of whom had younger brothers and sisters and friends in tow, and also to meet new faces - a number of whom knew very little about camp. 

As the week went on, we got to know all the campers a lot better through mad games of table tennis, treasure hunts, walks, crafts, games, mealtime chats - as well as teaching and bible studies. It took a surprisingly short time for the whole camp to enjoy a close, family atmosphere with lots of varied conversations and plenty of laughs!

Again, the leadership team of both Brits and Hungarians bonded tremendously, with each member being individually supported and involved. Teaching English in small dorms or under trees called for innovative thinking, but with everyone's help, there was certainly never a dull or daunting moment - plus we had the added excitement of the presence of a video camera this year!
Once more, I was surprised and challenged by the openness of the campers in sharing their thoughts about God, particularly towards the end of camp. The questions, concerns and hang-ups they had about the gospel were aired honestly in bible studies, dorm discussions and informal chats, and we all hope and pray that our words may have settled some important issues in their minds. Of particular significance to the whole camp was a testimony from a girl who was converted at Hejce camp last year. She shared with everyone her story of a truly transformed life through Jesus, who she knew little of until last year. It was such a blessing to see the courage she possessed to stand up in front of the whole camp and urge her friends to make Jesus personal, and what a thrill to watch the faces of her rapt audience. We pray for many more stories like hers next year

Sarah Johnstone - British team member, Hejce 2003

The following was contributed by Gyöngyi Bohatka, one of the Hungarian team at the Hejce camp.

"My name is Gyöngyi. I’m a university student. It was in 1999 that I first went to Hejce English Bible Camp and I have been attending it ever since. I help with the English classes and translate at the Bible classes. It is hard to sum up in short what I enjoy in the camp since there are so many things that make those days special.

The kids who come to the camp are from various backgrounds. Some of them come because it’s a Christian camp, some because they hope to improve their English by learning from native speakers. Whatever their reason may be, the camp is for sharing the Gospel with them and for showing that God’s love knows no boundaries, not even between nations.

I always enjoy working among these children with both the British and the Hungarian leaders in such a friendly atmosphere. I am happy to see how God uses the lives of people from different nations to show His greatness."