Update on Ukraine and Bible camp

When we first heard of the conflict in Ukraine and knew that refugees would be heading our way, we decided to offer the use of our Bible camp facilities for any refugees who might need it. We adapted the dormitory to use by families or groups and took some gifts of duvets for the beds. We of course had no idea how things would work out. Members from the congregations in Belgium and the Netherlands were ready to help with funds where needed. 

As things became clearer, also to the governments of Belgium and the Netherlands, systems were set up to help the refugees. In Belgium that meant that refugees first went to Brussels to register and then to their local city government where they were staying. This meant that no one was able to use the camp facility. 

We approached the local town government to let them know that, if they needed a temporary emergency location, we had space. The town thanked us for the offer but let us know that this was not needed at the time. The local village is tiny. The local town which the village is part of is not at all large. All of this is out in the middle of the country, surrounded by woods and about a 15-20 minute drive from actual stores or amenities. 

This means that, up until now, we have not welcomed any refugees at our camp facilities and probably will not be doing so in that capacity. Our camp weeks begin in July. We will be welcoming several children of families who are now (temporarily) settled in Belgium and the Netherlands to our summer camp weeks. We have already seen the churches step up to organize youth activities and fellowship activities to include those who have arrived in the life of the church.