By Brenda Plonis
LOCH LOMOND, Scotland--The Summer Educational Program (SEP) was up and running July 28.
The first few days were met with wind and rain. Despite stories that the sun was shining during set-up, most didn't believe it until they actually saw it peek out from behind the clouds several days into camp.
As with all SEPs, the campers (and their counselors) were kept busy with various activities run by the volunteer staff.
This year's activities included sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, archery, riflery, Christian living, art, personal development, formal dining, netball, football, rock climbing, hill walking, cycling, media and communications, and a new craft--candlemaking, done by Nancy Silcox.
Another new activity this year was camp craft, taught by Barry Bourne.
This year's SEP also saw a number of visitors to the camp site, including regional director John Halford and his wife, Pat.
Gerry Bayley came up from Wales to have a line dance, and Ross Jutsum came over from the United States to lead the praise services and sing-alongs.
A feature of camp for the second year now, was the ceilidh conducted for campers and staff, with an invitation extended to those in the surrounding area.
About 40 guests were present, and more than 485 pounds was raised for SEP. The event was organized by Marissa Campbell and Blair Phillips.
One new event introduced at SEP this year was the guest campers program, in which campers were allowed to bring a friend to camp.
According to Andrew Silcox, the 22 guest campers were completely integrated by living up to the SEP standards.
Mary Daniel-Miller, 17, from Manchester, England, came to camp as a friend of Cherilee Namee.
Mary felt that camp was "brilliant! I loved the positive attitude. I felt welcome and had a great time."
All along Mr. Silcox stressed a Christlike atmosphere at the camp. Campers and staff provided input on what a Christlike environment should be.
Afterward, Ben and John Silcox, and Ivan Ramsey gave a presentation on the "Friends of SEP," a group that seeks to secure land use for future SEPs.
During the presentation, the group received comments as to why SEP was important.
The most common response was the friendships and relationships that it forms. Activities aside, the campers and staff alike realized that the atmosphere at SEP caters to forming, strengthening and renewing friendships.
Plans for next year's SEP include inviting disabled children to spend about two days at SEP. Next year the camp will be better equipped and more prepared to serve them. Also in the works for next year will be scuba diving and a women's soccer program.
Sept. 16, 1997, WN, page nine
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