Today is the last day of Soul Survivor but it also marks the last day of SU HOLIDAYS summer season at Lendrick Muir. We have seen around 1.5 thousand young people walk through our doors of all ages and backgrounds. All who have been given the opportunity to

‘explore the bible and respond to the significance of Jesus.’

As a staff team, we are privileged to be a part of it. However, it would not have been possible without the dedication of so many volunteers giving up their time to lead or to be part of a team or the team of volunteers which help us keep the centre running. Thank you!

What’s been happening?

Soul Survivor 2017 has been immense. You know when you see the Big Top start to go up, that a fantastic week is ahead.  There is something profound about seeing so many young people gather together to learn more about God, to worship together and support one another.

I have been speaking to Danielle, Tiarnan and Shauna about their Soul Survivor experience and as they put it, it is like being part of a ‘big family’, an ‘amazing environment’ and ‘the atmosphere is really good, really welcoming.’ There is tremendous encouragement for young people knowing that they are not alone in walking out their Christian faith, especially as many of them are in the minority in their schools. A highlight of all three girls has been making so many new friends. Undoubtedly, another highlight for Shauna was going forward with her friend at the end of the meeting as she made the decision to become a Christian and seeing her so excited with a huge beaming smiling.  So far 62 young people have made decisions to become Christians and Soul Survivor isn’t over yet.

The teaching has been phenomenal all week and left the girls with practical things to take away such as a session on friendship which helped them process some difficult friendships they have had over the year. The music has been outstanding and the girls commented on how much they have enjoyed the upbeat songs particularly one evening when the whole room sang Oceans.

Alongside the Big Top meetings that has been various ACTIVITIES going on including Combat Archery, Zorbing, a fun run, Inflatables, the King Swing, High Ropes, Bungee Trampolines, Go-Karts, late night films, late campfire worship under the stars and a silent disco . . . a what!! Yes, a silent disco where everyone has head phones in listening to one of two channels.  The girls commented on how funny it was when you took out your earphones and listened to everyone singing!!  In true Scottish fashion, they will be ending the whole event with a ceilidh with a fancy dress theme – what I wanted to do when I was five!       

Finally, I had to ask it – what did they think of Mike’s tops? They all quickly responded that they loved them as they displayed his personality and Tiaran and Shauna even requested that we sold them next year.  We will have to see what we can do!!

The girls are hoping to come back next year and would tell anyone to ‘come and give it a try.’ They commented on how everyone was really friendly and ‘if you don’t come, you are missing out.’  Even as we were chatting they were discussing which friends they could bring next year.  So get the 21^st – 25^th July 2018 in your calendar for next year.

After the holidays

Next week, children go back to school. Before we know it, Universities will start and some young people will be starting jobs and gap years. Please pray that the experiences of the summer will go with them over the next year and that the friendships made will strengthen. Pray that in a world where there are so many mixed messages over social media and the internet that young people will have courage to stand firm and be the people God created them to be. May the lyrics of the song Oceans ring true in their lives.

You call me out upon the waters, the great unknown where feet may fail,
And there I find You in the mystery, in oceans deep, my faith will stand.
And I will call upon Your name, and keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise my soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine.¹

¹Writer(s): Matt Crocker, Joel Houston, Salomon Ligthelm