Hey Friends!
I am so excited to get to know you all in the months ahead, and I thought it was about time that I told you a little bit more about me.
My passion for Camp ministry begins with my love for the Lord. I love camp, because it is where I found and developed a deeper connection with my creator and because it is where I first realized the importance of evangelism- I’ll tell you a little more on that later. I am so thankful to be able to say that I don’t have an exciting testimony about my wild years before I knew God. Though, like most relationships, I’ve had ups and downs and bumps along the way my relationship with God and the Love that I have for Him has been at the core of who I am since day one.
I had the immense privilege of growing up in a Christian home (I am the youngest daughter of Pastor Jack Flietstra) and have always known the importance of Gods love in my life. Knowing the joy of an unconditional relationship with my creator was absolutely foundational in my life right from the start. This faith continues to shape who I am as I continuously strive to learn what this looks like in a deeper and more substantial way.
When I was 6 years old I attended my first week of summer camp, and I fell head over heals in love with it. It was this summer that I first learned that some people didn’t know their creator like I did, and that some kids had never felt loved before. This was the first time I felt my heart break for the lost, and this was when I decided I needed to be involved in camp for the rest of my life. I didn’t realize at the time how much this decision would impact my life and the choices I would make, but I knew there was a problem I and that I needed to be a part of the solution. (This was also when I learned that at camp you got to buy candy from the tuck shop every day, so it was absolutely sold!)
It was also during this first week of camp that I learned the joy of adventure, independence, and embracing the unknown. This love of adventure is what drew me towards working and studying at Medeba: Adventure Learning Centre, which is where my passion for adventure really grew. During this experience I learned many of the skills that God has used to empower me to take on this position. I also gained a better understanding of how stepping out of your comfort zone encourages growth, change, and faith in people from all backgrounds.
One of the places I have found to be the most valuable at camp is around the camp fire. This is the easiest place to get kids to drop their guards, act silly and just be kids- something that many of them don’t get to do at home. Something about sitting around a fire, singing songs and telling stories seems to facilitate the growth of community very rapidly. Many of my closest camp friendships began around a fire, and I truly believe that it is not a coincidence. My fondest campfire memories involve songs that make you act absolutely ridiculous, like “Great Big Moose" and “Castle on the River Nile” .
One more important thing for you to know about me is that I have Coeliac Disease, which means I can’t have gluten (found in wheat, barley, rye and most oats). I am unfortunately very sensitive to it, and even a few crumbs can make me very sick. If I ever turn down food, or an invitation to a meal, this is likely why. I promise in every case, it’s not you- it’s me. I love getting together for meals, and find huge value in the community built around the dinner table, so I am always happy to help cook or give recipes and ideas that are gluten free but I need a little extra notice! If you want to get together but aren’t comfortable with the idea of cooking (or eating) a gluten free meal, it is also important for you to know that I love coffee.
Now that you know a bit about me, I want to get to know you! I would love for you to leave a comment on our Facebook page telling me your favourite thing about All Tribes or your best All Tribes story.
Cant Wait to hear from you!
Chrissy Flietstra