Dear friends and supporters,
This past month, we had the pleasure of launching our Autumn Anchor Camp at Ovoca Manor for students in fourth, fifth, and sixth year.
For us here at SU, it’s never just about running camps so that we can pat ourselves on the back and talk about all that we've done. At the heart of it, we run them because we believe that the person of Jesus and the stories of Scripture have the power to transform lives. In a world often shadowed by heavy news feeds, anxiety, and uncertainty, the Gospel offers a steady anchor of hope and purpose.
That purpose came to life at Autumn Anchor! Alongside our usual mix of games and activities (most of which are hard to explain on paper!), we spent time looking at the story of David, and how his life speaks directly to the questions teenagers are wrestling with today.
It was great to catch up with familiar faces who have been coming for years, and to welcome in new people as well. It was a real privilege to be part of the camp alongside my wife and our two kids, who loved being "mini helpers." As leaders, our aim is to invest in these teenagers, but in many ways, these teenagers were already modelling faith and leadership to my own kids.
During the camp, one camper told us, "I don't have a faith, but I really want to believe." Another shared, "I've never prayed before, but I would like to."
Conversations like these are a reminder of why it matters so much to create spaces where young people can gather, build friendships, and respond to the life-changing message of Jesus. As we head towards 2027, our aim is to create more of these spaces for young people and families to connect, have fun, and encounter Jesus.
As always, we deeply appreciate your support and partnership in this work. Lives are being changed as young people hear about and experience Jesus. That is good news!
Please join us in praying for..
The young people who attended camp who don't yet have a faith, but want to believe.
Andrew and Amy Mullen as they begin planning for Greystones CSSM.
The work at Ovoca Manor, and for the groups and guests who use the space. We want this place to be a place where people know Jesus.
The Shine Films team planning for the year ahead creating films for young people to have conversations about faith.
Blessings,
Mark Murray
National Director
