Petah Tikva - Linga

On Friday, April 29th the third Challenge Youth Camp, entitled “The Amazing Race” concluded. The camp was held at Baptist Village in Petah Tikva, and drew youth from grades 9-12. The camp’s theme verse was taken from 2 Timothy 4:7-8 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day” The camp was attended by about 60 students from across the country, including the cities of Nazareth, Acre, Kfar Yassif, Tur’an and Abu Sinan, Shefamer,Kfar Kana, Rama, Ebilin, Reine, Yafa of Nazareth.

The camp centered on the theme from Paul's 2nd letter to Timothy on fighting the good fight of faith in the daily walk with Christ. The meetings were led by Fadi Hanna and Rani Espanioly, both of Nazareth. Mr. Hanna is the director of Child Evangelism Fellowship and Rani Espanioly is the founder of SALAM in the Holy Land ministry.

Praise and worship was led by Shireen Basha of Nazareth on guitar and Fadi Hanna on piano with Rani Odeh on the violin. Each morning and evening, the youth gathered for a time of worship followed by a message. They also spent time in small groups discussing the topic of how to prepare for the race and finish it well and then praying for one another.

The campers were divided into four ‘teams’ led by local leaders and they competed against one another for points. These points were earned by excellence in athletics, bible verse memorization and being on time.The camp was organized by Matt and Jillian Altman, American youth leaders working with the Association of Baptist Churches in Israel. The kitchen and kiosk were staffed by Samuel Basha, Jillian Altman, Hannah Espanioly, and Peter and Jane Knot.

The teams spent a great deal of time competing in athletic games and tournaments and memorizing Bible verses on their own and in groups. On the last evening, the teams competed in an "Amazing Race," following clues to different stations in an attempt to finish in first place. Following the race, everyone attended a worship service where several students received Christ for the first time and many re-dedicated their lives. The final event was entitled "Shebab (Youth) Got Talent" and allowed the youth to showcase their many talents.

The youth returned home full of boldness, ready to share their experience and on fire for the Lord.

For Challenge Youth Camp Photos Album Click Here