Children and youth gathered at Kubo Camp for Christ in Mataas na Burol April 29 to May 1 for the Southern Tagalog District children’s camp.

The camp was based on Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." The theme, “The VOICE of the Universe,” acknowledges the importance of children as they related to God's mission and prayer.

Nearly 40 children ages 7 to 14 were in attendance. Youth from 16 to 24 participated as camp teachers, leaders, and big brothers and sisters.

The children prayed for the following goals:

• Personal transformation focused on the salvation of the children and their loved ones who have not accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior
• Social transformation, including poverty and injustice affecting the children, particularly in cases of risk and neglect
• Missional transformation, emphasizing providing opportunities and empowering children as agents of mission and transformation in their generation

The children spent time in prayer, and those who wanted personal prayer time were able to do so in a designated prayer booth. They prayed for the camp’s goals, the community, and its local government officials.

"I am so happy that even children have the heart to pray for public officials like us," said Dorotea Toledo, barangay (village) councilwoman. "This is the first time that a group of children came here and prayed for us!"

The participants also went out into the community and distributed bookmarks they made.

"I was afraid when I handed the bookmark I made to the man who was gambling," said Kyl Don Dela Peret, age 13. "I thought he will not accept it, but he did!"

The camp was indeed a blessed experience for the children. The camp teachers and leaders will gather the children again next month and encourage them to keep the fire in their hearts for serving the Lord.