Last weekend we took a large group of KS3 students to the annual Lasallian Camp at Kintbury for a weekend of fun, friendship and faith with fellow Lasallians. We were joined by De La Salle schools from St Helen’s, Basildon, Bournemouth, Jersey and even as far as Malta! With the Ashes in full swing and capturing the nation, it only seemed right that we had a cricket set with us, which brought us together for many an innings during breaks over the weekend. To the boys from Malta, cricket was a bizarre sport but they loved getting involved and giving it a try – the fellowship shown between the different schools was a true reflection of Lasallian spirit.
The first night began with a BBQ for over 150 of us, as well as songs and night prayer around the camp fire (once we’d spent a good couple of hours erecting 13 tents). The weather tried to disrupt the main day’s activities on Saturday, yet all the young people ignored the intermittent heavy showers and ploughed on with archery, human table football, low ropes, artwork, a woodland walk and lots of team games. There was no chance of dampening our spirits. Early evening brought a return from the sun, drying out of some damp and slightly leaky tents and Mass together. It was a joy to behold Mass in the big marquee where everyone present sang their hearts out and made it a celebration. The visiting priest even commented on how wonderful it was to have a congregation full of happy young people.
The final morning brought an untimely downpour as we packed away the tents! The final part of the weekend was a celebration of each school’s ‘Good News’ – what they would take back with them and share. Creativity is strongly encouraged for this part in the final liturgy and our students didn’t disappoint with a three-part presentation of song, drama and song again. They did us, and themselves, so proud and brought so much joy to everyone, regardless of the damp weather. We look forward to next year’s Lasallian Camp already, as well as several opportunities throughout the year to go along to St Cassian’s, Kintbury, on retreats.
Mr Robinson, Lay Chaplain
