Transforming Lives: A 4-Day Children’s Camp in Sukuro Village
On June 1–4, 2024, the Nehemia Christian Aid Foundation (NCAF) held a 4-day children’s evangelistic camp in the remote village of Sukuro. By the grace of God, this camp stands out as the most impactful we’ve ever organized in the past four years. With the Lord’s powerful presence guiding every moment, over 500 children experienced spiritual transformation and joy.
A Promising Beginning
The camp started with blessings, beginning with the weather. For a region accustomed to harsh climates, the bright sunshine combined with mild temperatures created the perfect conditions for outdoor activities. This was especially beneficial for the one-third of participants who traveled over five kilometers to reach the camp each day.
Unity among the organizing team also played a crucial role. Whether managing kitchen duties, teaching sessions, organizing games, or setting up tents, every individual worked together seamlessly. Two weeks before the event, the team committed to nightly prayers, spending 20–30 minutes interceding for the camp. Combined with the prayers of partners worldwide, these spiritual preparations laid a strong foundation for success.
A Multi-Ethnic, Spirit-Led Gathering
Sukuro Village is a melting pot of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including many families of Muslim faith. Despite historical and religious divides, nearly 550 children attended the camp, an extraordinary turnout. This alone was a testimony to God’s divine intervention, as families from differing beliefs entrusted their children to a Christian event.
The village is also known for significant social challenges, including alcoholism, AIDS, and the widespread use of traditional drugs. Many of the children who participated were orphans or lived in extreme poverty. Some had never met their biological fathers, growing up as “posthumous children” in broken homes.
In this context, the Gospel brought hope and healing. On the final day, as prayers were lifted, many children raised their hands to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. It was a moment of pure grace, where lives burdened by brokenness found the promise of new beginnings in Christ.
Faith in Action: Preparing for the Camp
Teamwork and Prayer
The success of the 4-day children’s camp in Sukuro Village was the result of meticulous planning and a deep reliance on God. The organizing team included volunteers from different countries, including Germany and Tanzania. From kitchen duties to worship sessions, everyone played a vital role.
Prayer remained the cornerstone of preparation. For two weeks before the camp, the team gathered every night to pray for the children, the logistics, and the spiritual battles they anticipated. This dedication unified the team, ensuring they approached the camp with a shared purpose and a reliance on God’s strength.
Setting Up and Organizing Activities
The camp required significant logistical coordination. Volunteers worked tirelessly to set up outdoor tents, arrange classrooms, and prepare materials for various sessions. Every detail, from the games to the teaching curriculum, was designed to point children to Christ.
German volunteers brought creativity and energy to the games, while Tanzanian team members ensured cultural relevance and engagement. Together, they created an environment where children felt safe, loved, and eager to learn.
Experiencing God’s Presence Through Activities
Praise and Worship
Each day began with lively praise and worship sessions. Led by local and international volunteers, these moments were filled with joyful singing, dancing, and heartfelt prayers. For many children, this was their first experience of communal worship, and their enthusiasm was infectious.
Bible Teaching and Drama
The teaching sessions were accompanied by the powerful short play “Jesus on the Cross”, performed by local teenagers. This visual representation of Christ’s sacrifice moved many children, making the Gospel message tangible and relatable.
The lessons were designed to be simple yet profound, focusing on God’s love, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. Teachers ensured that children from all backgrounds could understand and engage with the material.
Games and Fellowship
Games played a significant role in building camaraderie and breaking down barriers. From relay races to team-building exercises, every activity was infused with joy and purpose. Volunteers ensured that no child felt left out, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
The Camp’s Impact on Sukuro Village
Spiritual Awakening Among Children
The most remarkable outcome of the camp was the spiritual awakening among the children. Despite their challenging circumstances, they responded to the Gospel with open hearts. Over 100 children made the life-changing decision to follow Jesus, a testament to God’s unrelenting love.
A Message of Hope for Families
The children’s transformation extended to their families. As they returned home each evening, they carried with them stories of joy, hope, and the Good News of Christ. For many families, this camp was their first encounter with Christianity, planting seeds of faith that we pray will grow over time.
Strengthening Community Bonds
The camp also strengthened bonds within the Sukuro community. Parents and elders expressed gratitude for the care and love shown to their children. This goodwill has opened doors for future outreach programs, ensuring that the Gospel continues to reach more lives.
Reflections and Gratitude
The 4-day children’s camp in Sukuro Village was a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness. It showed us that even in the most challenging environments, His love transcends barriers and brings healing.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of this camp:
- The kitchen team, who ensured that every child was fed and cared for.
- The volunteers, who poured their hearts into every activity.
- The prayer warriors around the world, whose intercession paved the way for spiritual breakthroughs.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission
The success of the Sukuro camp has inspired us to dream bigger. We are committed to organizing more evangelistic camps in remote villages, bringing the Gospel to children who need it most.
Future plans include:
- Expanding the duration and reach of the camps.
- Offering follow-up discipleship programs for children who accept Christ.
- Training local leaders to sustain the spiritual growth initiated during the camps.
With God’s guidance and your continued support, we believe that even greater things lie ahead.
Conclusion: Join Us in Transforming Lives
The story of the 4-day children’s camp in Sukuro Village is a testament to what God can do when His people come together in faith and unity. Over 500 children heard the Gospel, and many experienced life-changing encounters with Christ.
We invite you to join us in this mission. Whether through prayer, financial support, or volunteering, your contribution can make a lasting impact. Together, let’s continue to share the love of Christ with children in need.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14
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Tunamshukuru Mungu anatupambania