A significant Empower platform was held in Tokmak, Kyrgyzstan. It managed to unite and train more than 80 leaders and ministers to work in Christian summer camps. This event was an important step in the development and equipping of 14 teams that will carry out about 70 projects this summer, reaching more than 3,500 children and teenagers.* The Empower platform provided participants with new tools and methods to help them effectively serve to children and youth, especially those who need support and attention in difficult circumstances.
Participants had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how important the spiritual component is in their ministry, and how through summer camps, not only can they provide joyful moments for children, but also change their lives for the better by cultivating Christian values and building strong spiritual foundations.
Within the framework of the platform, training seminars and workshops were held, where leaders and ministers gained unique experience in interacting with children, learnt how to work effectively in teams, and mastered new approaches to camp organizing. One of the key elements of the training was working with children and teenagers* experiencing the consequences of traumatic events related to war and other difficult life situations. Special attention was paid the methods of creating an atmosphere of trust, support and safety so that children could open up and feel accepted.
The Empower platform also discussed leadership, team organization and building effective interaction between campers. All this helps ministers not only to fulfil their tasks in a quality manner, but also to create long-term relationships with children that can evolve after the camp season is over. After all, our main goal is not just to hold summer activities, but to change the lives of children and their parents through Christian service and love.
Summer is an important time for hundreds of teams trained through the Empower program and in School Without Walls. They will go to camps throughout the Eurasia region to serve to thousands of children and teens*, offering them not only exciting programs but also spiritual support. Each camp will be a place where children can not only make friends and have fun, but also learn about Christian values, learn to trust God, and receive hope for the future.
The Empower platform in Tokmak was an important step in the development of Christian summer camp ministry in Central Asia. Thanks to it, leadership teams will be able to effectively and warmly serve children, give them joy and spiritual support, and contribute to the spiritual awakening of the region.
