Thousands of youth from around the world flow into a decorated hall at Oslofjord Convention Center in Vestfold this Saturday evening. The effectful stage lighting sets the atmosphere, which hums with anticipation. It is time for the opening of Easter Camp 2018 at last.
By Johanne Reiersrud – Photos by Randi Hutt/BCC
Young people from 31 different countries can now make themselves comfortable from a long journey and take in the phenomenal opening of Easter camp, which has been months in the making. Before the evening`s program begins, many reunite in heartfelt moments of shared smiles and laughter.
Thousands of participants are sitting in the hall now, nearly 400 from North America, more than 50 from South America, and over 30 from Asia, in addition to those from Africa, Australia, and Europe. They meet, in a cultural melting pot, for activities, fellowship, and inspiring meetings at Easter Camp.
A hopeful message
The message delivered from the stage this evening requires contemplation, but is one of hope. The themes on the program are conversion and baptism, clarified by way of film, panel discussion, speeches and songs. Everything is presented in a way that young people can understand.
After an illuminating speech by Kåre J. Smith, the evening`s theme film plays on the gigantic LED-screen. The images, music, and message are so powerful that the hall is completely silent. The film is produced especially for the occasion, and features dramatic clips portraying Paul`s radical conversion. Paul was the man who persecuted the first Christians, but experienced a complete change of course — the development of his inner life took on an eternal meaning.
Modern means of communication
Modern tools are used to teach the young people the same gospel that Paul preached for the first churches about 2,000 years ago. The youth are encouraged to make good choices and build their lives on a righteous foundation, where evil must yield to the good.
An eventful week ahead
This kickoff was fitting for this year`s Easter Camp at BCC, and the 4,000 plus participants have some memorable days in front of them. They have had over 40 different courses and activities to choose from, and there will be something for nearly every interest.
A few of them:
- Horseback riding
- Sign language
- First-aid
- Outdoor recreation activities
- Water sports
- Robotics
- Computer programming
- Theater/performance
- Flight
- Photography
- Baking and cake decorating
- Song, studio, and music production
- Hockey
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Handball
- Paintball
- LAN party
- Film and media
You can follow along and get daily updates from Easter Camp here at bcc.no.
Thousands of excited young people gather for the first evening of Easter Camp. Photo: BCC