Winter Oasis 2025 - Lamb of God’s Youth Camp
Rewind to 1999 – When the world was captivated by the Y2K bug, the then youth leaders of the Lamb of God Christian Community in Auckland, New Zealand were inspired to start a youth Camp. They christened this camp Winter Oasis and the aim of the camp was to equip young people in the Power of the Holy Spirit to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. The theme that year was “What cannot be shaken will Remain”
Camp Morley at Clarks Beach – Venue of Winter Oasis
Fast forward to 2025, and this camp has just finished its 27th edition! Truly “What cannot be shaken will Remain” and with the Lord’s blessing on this event, we are confident that this camp will carry on, in its mission to guiding more youth to Jesus Christ.
The theme this year was “Do you love me?” and based on the scripture verse from John 21:15-17. Even after Peter denied Jesus thrice, he was still given a chance to redeem himself when Jesus asked him "Do you love me?" Today, in all our brokenness, Jesus asks each of us the same question.
The schedule had a mix of activities that included a time of Praise and Worship, talks, workshops, discussion groups, organised games and free time to mix, mingle and make new friends. The highlight for these camps is usually the night rally where the participants get prayed over by the adults from the Lamb of God Community, and very often this is usually a conversion point for many in their faith journey. The workshop on a very relevant topic for today's time, 'Using and managing your time on social media', resonated with many of the participants.
It is interesting to see the change in dynamics of Winter Oasis over the years. From the initial camps where 100% were children from the community, to now, where nearly 90% are non-community participants that were drawn from 18 different colleges across Auckland and Christchurch. This change in demographics over the years, has now made Winter Oasis an outreach event for high school youth.
The community continues to provide ongoing support, both in terms of finance, as well as many members who volunteer their services by running the kitchen and providing wholesome meal. It is also heartening to see the UCO and Young Christian Professionals now taking an active and crucial role in the running of this camp. This strong level of commitment and love for the Lord, has drawn many high schoolers to Christ, while we as a community, live up to our calling of “being disciples on mission.”
God’s promise shining brightly over the campsite.
