During the week of May 22nd to May 25th, a group of students, parents, and two very lucky teachers headed to the lower mainland to engage in learning in many unique and amazing environments. Our prayer before we left was that God would give us vision to see many things: each other, the people and organizations that were joining us, creation, and, ultimately, our Creator.
We left VCS early Tuesday morning, drove to head of Chilliwack Lake, got out of our vans, and paddled on Voyageur canoes to Chilliwack Lake cabin. The paddling was hard, but the weather and community was palpable. It is difficult to describe the view from our camp; it was as if Creation was folding in on us. The lake, the mountains, the sunshine, they formed a venue for authentic community, cooking together, eating together, hearing God’s word and responding in worship together. We went to bed anticipating another day full of adventure and learning.
We rose early Wednesday morning and canoed to the ecological reserve at the south end of the lake. It was there that we spent time “getting small” in creation, taking time to notice the detail and relationships between elements of what God has made. We then paddled to the opposite end of the lake (yes, sore shoulders and more beautiful views) making our way to some local caves. Talk about an unique way to experience the earth and to challenge our team with the task of overcoming many obstacles: darkness, fear, the unknown…this was memorable! As we headed back to camp to relax, prepare another meal, and finish the day in reflection and worship, we found it easy to fall asleep that night:)
On Thursday we left the camp and drove to Trinity Western University in Langley. On campus, we had the opportunity to do many things, including attend a hands-on exploration of TWU’s own forest and ecological centre. During this “class”, students had the opportunity to perform several tests, collecting data on their unique ecosystem. After lunch and a much needed shower, we venture to the high ropes course run by Omada. Challenges included partners climbing a 75 foot high structure known as “the vertical playpen and leaping off of a 25 foot tower aptly named “leap of faith”. The students really pushed themselves and it was amazing to see their bravery as the encouraged each other beyond what they thought possible.
Thursday concluded with a trip to the ocean at Crescent beach and an opportunity to unwind, exploring yet another unique ecosystem. The weather continued to be a gift and it was special to slow down and soak in his creation yet again. TWU was generous to host us overnight for another well-earned rest.
On Friday, we woke early and travelled to A Rocha (arocha.org) to spend the morning seeing “stewardship in action”. This was an inspiring morning, as we learned further about stewardship as worship, unpacking the real responsibility, opportunity, and joy that we have to care for creation. We worked alongside A Rocha removing invasive species in their efforts to renew diversity to the property. It was a great way to connect our week’s learning, wrestling with thorns and bending grass. Our time at A Rocha ended with a meal, evidence of their intentionally inefficient commitment to togetherness.
So yes, the Lord answered our prayers and gave us vision beyond our expectations. We saw many things and our hearts and minds are full. It was a gift to enjoy His ‘classroom’ for a week and, hopefully, for a lifetime.
