More Than Survivors
at SEP South Africa

By Art Holladay

BERGVALLEI, South Africa—If you are a fan of the Survivor series on television, then the words outwit, outsmart and outplay would sound familiar to you. You would think of the dangers of Africa and a group of people all trying to win a million dollars.

Further south on the continent of Africa a group of young people were also facing the rigors of Africa, yet they weren’t trying to outwit, outsmart or outplay, and the prize was theirs free for the taking—worth far more than a million dollars. In addition, each and every person at the South African SEP could take home the prize—a relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ.

"More Than Survivors" was the theme for the South African SEP 2001, with each dorm given a tribal name and mascot as well as a fire torch, setting an exciting atmosphere from the opening night.

Soon each tribe was given the opportunity to compete in immunity challenges and complex puzzles to be solved. Integrated into the theme were the values of friendship, fun, community, growth, the environment, the individual and Christ, which were emphasized at every turn.

In addition, campers had the opportunity to develop physically and spiritually through the various activities offered—Life Application classes, daily worship opportunities, Christian dance, an obstacle course, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, action cricket, golf, rock climbing, overnight canoe trip, ballroom dancing, tenpin bowling, riflery and handcrafts.

The volunteer staff arrived two days before the campers for training and camp setup. This was a time to renew friendships, make new acquaintances and for all to become a part of the task at hand. Being a part of the SEP staff team is hard work, and early focus on the same vision paid off.

The campers arrived Dec. 9, excited and ready to be challenged. Camp was filled to capacity, and the 96 campers were divided into three boys and three girls dormitories. Each dormitory was cared for by a counselor and an assistant 24 hours a day. In 2000, dormitory buildings were built and are a great asset to the SEP program, especially when the violent thunderstorms of the African highveld move through the area.

If you would like to be a part of SEP South Africa in December 2002 as a camper or staff member, contact the Youthworx Office at P.O. Box 413524, Craighall, 2024, South Africa, or send e-mail to wendyh@wcg.org.za

CHRIST-CENTERED CAMP—Praise and worship
was part of every day at camp. [Photos by Art Holladay]

BALLROOM DANCING—Ben le Roux and
Lungisile Simelane enjoy ballroom dance class.

Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 2002