The nine guests came from Connexio partner countries and the European Methodist Church. They all hold leadership roles in children’s, teen, or youth ministry in their home countries. After the STR, they spent three days in Interlaken and reflected together on this intensive time.
«The children had a Spanish song in their songbook. The lyrics are complete nonsense, but they sang it just for us. That pretty much says it all. They showed us time and again that we were welcome,» says Jazmín Fernandez Vallerotto from Argentina, summarizing her experience with the Kyburg youth group. Her colleague Michelle Bravo will especially remember how they hopped around and sang with the children after the thunderstorm. «That broke the tension and was so much fun!»
The evening feedback sessions among the leadership team were switched to English; this is how the Argentine women got involved. Of course, the two of them introduced the tradition of drinking mate tea. They also took on routine tasks so the team could take a break. It was a new experience for them to see that mixed-age groups, with younger children and teenagers, can work well. They’re taking this insight—along with ideas for planning and leadership—back with them. Seeing things from a distance has also made them realize anew that worship and caring for one another are major strengths among young people in Argentina.
«We taught the children a song in Khmer,» says Daniel Sok from Cambodia. «They sang it often when they were out and about. That was especially nice for me.» He and his colleague Rebecca Chhoeung quickly bonded with the children. Daniel Sok often pitched in and was nicknamed «Eiger Wärchi» by the youth group. «And my name is Schnuri,» says Rebecca Chhoeung, «because I talked to the kids so much.» She taught the children Khmer words and, in return, learned to say «Fläschä» and “Glassä.” Both were spontaneously invited by their youth group to come to Thun on Sunday.
The two youth leaders from Cambodia would like to start a youth group. Rebecca Chhoeung is already thinking about the possibility of camping at a campground. She felt it was a special gift to participate in the STR as a delegate. «In Cambodia, young women have far fewer freedoms than young men or than the young women here.» Her parents had reservations about her coming here. But she experienced a great deal of freedom at the STR. «I want to tell my friends and the young women in my youth group: dare to be free, be courageous.»
The international team contributed in many ways to the STR. In a workshop for the youth group leadership teams, they shared insights from their own work. They also led devotions, organized games, and pitched in with the day-to-day camp activities. «Actually, just by being there, we were already contributing,» says Eszter Harmann from Hungary. Mounish Mesa from England shared his own experiences of faith, which were found to be encouraging. He also led engaging discussions and felt a sense of belonging despite occasional differences in perspective.
It took some guests a little while to settle in at STR; Swiss German remained a challenge, and most would have appreciated a bit more free time. Yet everyone emphasizes that the relationships and friendships they’ve been able to build here are a highlight. They’re very grateful to everyone who made this experience possible. «Relationships and community are key—no matter how small or large the group is,» says Ben Rose from England. Karyanne Dypedahl and Marie Hølland from Norway enjoyed being outdoors all the time and building relationships while hiking.
«The Methodist Church in Argentina is very small,» says Jazmín Fernandez Vallerotto. "The sense of international connection has strengthened her, and she will take this experience with her—along with over 400 photos." “And somewhere in my suitcase, there’ll still be a little spot for my new, tightly rolled-up Edelweiss socks.”
«Dare to be free; be brave.»
Rebecca is taking this phrase home with her from Cambodia. It’s exactly these kinds of phrases that emerge when people from all over the world come together—whether while doing the dishes, singing, or participating in a workshop. With your donation, you make these valuable encounters possible and give us the strength to invest where the need is greatest. Become part of this global movement!
