A secret youth camp grows in faith (slegs in Engels beskikbaar)

In a small apartment, a group of young Christians gather. There are 25 young Christians, ranging from 10 to 20 years old. They’re there to learn about Jesus. And the fact that they’re meeting is nothing short of a miracle. It’s a youth camp organised by Open Doors local partners, as there aren’t many camp activities in their area.

These young believers live in a country in Asia that is predominantly Muslim. It’s so risky to be a Christian in this country that we can’t tell you its name or where it is in Asia. Religious freedom is restricted, and residents can’t practice any faith outside of Islam. Christians can’t worship publicly or have an open church building.

Nonetheless, these young people are meeting. What a courageous step of faith. And it’s all thanks to the support and prayers of Open Doors supporters around the world, reminding the youth that they are valuable and beloved members of the Body of Christ.

Most of the believers who live in this country are expatriates from various Asian countries; some have lived in this country for over 20 years. Since living there, they have formed a community of believers who gather quietly in a small apartment to worship.

The youth camp was for the children of some of these expatriate believers, held in the same small room used for weekly services. For many of the young people, it was their very first youth camp and a rare opportunity to gather with believers of their age and grow in their faith.

Our local partners shared the fundamentals of being a Christian, how to read and apply Scripture and be salt and light in their community. The young people were very happy and eager to learn and grow in their faith.

“We were so happy, as the opportunity to grow our faith in this country is small because of the strict laws,” one participant said. “The activities conducted are so simple, yet it’s very helpful and interesting for us to learn many things about Jesus.”

One of the young Christians shared that she learned many new things at the camp. “I learned how to study and meditate on the Bible interestingly and easily,” she says. “I also learned where to start searching [for] Jesus.”

“The lessons about Jesus’ love and guidance on reading the Bible have truly touched my heart,” another young person said. “The games we played and the way you treated us with such care and respect made a lasting impression on me.”

A 10-year-old boy said: “Before this, I didn’t know about the Holy Spirit, and I thought that only older people could receive the Holy Spirit; but now I know I also can receive the power of the Holy Spirit because I believe in Jesus.”

“I plan to begin my journey with Jesus by meditating on the Word as we have been taught at the camp,” said another participant.

Our local partners also organised a question-and-answer session where “campers” could freely ask about anything. The young people asked many questions, covering subjects such as relationships, the Holy Spirit, peer relationships, addiction, and more. “I’ve found answers to my questions, and now I have a clearer view on certain things,” one young person said.

Our local partner shared: “It’s amazing to see these young people being so responsive and eager to learn more about Jesus.”

Praise the Lord for all the wonderful and impactful work that He is doing for young people in Asia. Be a part of this Kingdom work. Click here to give your best gift today.