Redemption and Jesus’ victory at Yangbala Kemp

“Jisas imbin bidim ola nogudbala ting langa det Kros.” – Romans 6:9-10 (translated into Kriol)

Up to 20 campers, aged about 10 to 14 years old, gathered for Yangbala Kemp in Banatjarl near the King River over the July school holidays for two days of fun, games, swimming, singing and engaging with the Bible in the Kriol language. 

SU Australia Remote Worker, Rachel Borneman (Rachel B) was joined by our enthusiastic Camp Coolamatong team from Victoria, as they supported local Indigenous Christian leaders, Aileen, Gary, Junior Ray, Cynthia, and Rachael K to deliver this year’s program. 

Campers participated, by acting out the scenes as Rachael shared the story of Adam and Eve,  and linked ‘the fall’ with Jesus’s redemptive power and the camp’s memory verse of Roman 6:9-10, which the Kriol had been simplified for the children at the Leadership Training, shares Rachel B.

“Thanks to Rachael K and the Coola team the memory verse was put into song. It was special to see some of the young boys actually lead the song with the microphones for the final time. We didn’t manage to capture it on video unfortunately, but it was very cool to see them get right into it,” says Rachel B. 

This year’s program saw many returning campers, including one young boy whose story we’d shared in last year’s SU News.  

“I’d been hanging out with his mob during the weeks leading up to camp and I’d heard some stories about some ongoing problems he was facing, but he was really excited to join us for Kids Games and camp. God provided a way for the leaders to learn of the source of one of the problems – please pray this has been resolved.

“The leaders did a great job of creating an environment for him and the other campers to have fun while learning more about Jesus,” says Rachel. 

The young adult Indigenous Christian leaders continued to grow in their calling as they began stepping up in confidence from the front this year, which was a blessing for Rachel to see. 

“It was also good to have Amy [Stork] and her Coolamatong team. They did a brilliant job of supporting and bringing the fun and energy again.”

Speaking with the Indigenous Christian leaders, Rachel says camps like Yangbala and visiting teams are important for their young people.

“A Beswick leader told me he likes to have teams of young people visit and help out because it gives their children the opportunity to see that Christianity is not just something for adults, but for young people too,” Rachel says. 

Thank you for all you do to support the work of SU Australia in the Northern Territory. You are joining with other faithful Christians across the nation who are making ministries like this possible. 

Please continue to pray for this vital work, and also for Rachel as she continues to serve and walk alongside local Indigenous Christian leaders as they reach more young people with God’s love, hope and good news.