Finding belonging: In community at the Ark in Hungary – PHOTOS, VIDEO
Tomi, a ten- year-old boy, has already had more foster parents than he can count on his hands. Loretta is so deeply moved by the camp’s devotions that she writes and performs a praise song during the Talent Show – a touching culmination of the camp’s activities. Szabi, struggling with anger, asks the pastors to pray with him, as he does not wish to cause harm to others. For many children, it is at the Ark Camp that they first encounter children who have lost their parents entirely.
Ark Camp at Lake Balaton
Ark Camp. For the past seven years, the Reformed Church in Hungary has hosted the Ark Camp, a six-day developmental program at Lake Balaton. The camp primarily welcomes socially disadvantaged, multiply disadvantaged, and disabled children, offering them not only recreation but also spiritual growth through shared experiences. Since 2018, the program has welcomed more than 7,000 children. Despite facing challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and abuse in their daily lives, the camp provides a safe and nurturing environment where they can grow emotionally and spiritually. Ark Camp offers more than a break from life’s struggles – it creates a space to encounter God.
How can all this be achieved? Through a unique combination of missionary activity, development, and community-building activities? A fundamental pillar of this approach is the experiential education, in the development and implementation of which the Adventures and Dreams Workshop has been a partner of the Reformed Church from the very beginning. This method transforms learning into an engaging game: children participate in carefully structured programs designed to foster personal and social growth. Children organised into small groups, within a camp cohort of 160 participants, engage in activities that encourage collaboration, reflection, and problem-solving.
These activities are thoughtfully integrated with lessons drawn from Bible stories shared during the morning and evening devotions, seamlessly connecting faith-based teaching with experiential education sessions. And, of course, no camp is complete without evening games! After all, play is a fundamental part of children’s lives, while their personality, their ability to cooperate or to express their emotions develops imperceptibly. These lively activities not only energize the children but also help them build social and emotional skills. Tasks that may seem amusing often push children out of their comfort zones. Once completed, the activities are followed by group reflections, enabling the children to apply what they have learned in their daily lives.
Who can become an Ark camper?
Beyond faith-based education and social skills development, Ark Camp also addresses health promotion, education for health-conscious living, and activities to promote the correct use of digital tools – areas often inaccessible to children living in extreme poverty. By filling these gaps, the camp equips participants with practical knowledge they may not otherwise receive.
Who can become an ’Ark’ camper? The camp welcomes all, from the children attending elite schools to children encountering basic amenities like running water for the first time, from those who have attended church since childhood to those who have never heard the name of Jesus. Without the support of the implementing helpers, the Ark would sink. The Ark’s success is built on the dedication of its rotating team of 40 staff members, a diverse group ranging from teenagers completing community services to retired teachers and even tax lawyers. The camp brings together children and young staff members who might not otherwise have the chance to meet or build friendships due to prevailing prejudices. This inclusive approach promotes acceptance and fosters a sense of community, encouraging children to collaborate as teams and build bridges of understanding rather than barriers of division.
There is room for everyone on this Ark!
Donations well received
The Ark Camp operates entirely free of charge for participants, made possible through the help of supporters. The Reformed Church in Hungary is actively seeking partners who share its vision and commitment to social responsibility. The Ark Camp and changing the lives of children in difficulty can be a common cause!
Every contribution matters – whether it is a small donation, funding for an individual camper, or support for an entire group, it makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that every child finds their place on the Ark.
Bank account: HU33 1070 1348 7534 0731 5110 0005
Join us in this mission to create lasting change in the lives of disadvantaged children!
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