10/07/2026
Our bags are packed, we’re ready to go… the DYO has finally slowed down… just a little! 😊
Well… what a week! A week filled with fun, laughter, new friendships, new leaders, and memories that will stay with us for a long time.
Firstly, a huge thank you to all of our leaders. As DYO, I simply could not do this role without each and every one of you. It just wouldn’t be possible. Your dedication, patience, kindness and willingness to give up your time to serve our young people never goes unnoticed. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
To all of our campers, both Junior and Senior Camp, thank you for choosing to spend your week with us. Without you, none of us would be here. You are the reason we do what we do, and it has been a privilege to watch you grow, laugh, worship and make lifelong friendships.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful hosts at Gurteen College. Thank you for the comfortable beds, the always warm showers, and of course… all the food—lots and lots of food! We are so grateful for your hospitality throughout the week.
A very special thank you to our Chaplain, Hilda Connolly (DYO of CCR), for her guidance, encouragement and ministry throughout camp. Our theme, “Are We There Yet?”, reminded us that life isn’t always a straight road. Sometimes we find ourselves rerouting, recalculating, taking a wrong turn or wondering where God is leading us. Yet through it all, God remains with us, faithfully guiding us to where we need to be.
And yes… Google Maps eventually got Hilda safely back across into her own diocese and home to her family! 🚗😂
Hilda, thank you so much for everything you brought to camp this week, and thank you also to your family for sharing you with us.
As I sit here at home now, one very tired DYO with two dogs asleep on my knee, I can’t help but reflect on how incredibly privileged and honoured I am to have this role. Time and time again I say that I cannot do this job without the amazing support of our volunteers, our Bishop, and the wonderful ladies in the Diocesan Office. You are the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, and I am deeply grateful for every one of you.
DSC26 felt different this year… but in the most wonderful way. There was something truly special about this camp that is difficult to put into words. I genuinely believe God was at work in so many ways in the conversations, the laughter, the worship the friendships and in every moment we shared together.
Thank you to everyone who helped make DSC26 such a special week. Thank you for your prayers, your support, your generosity and your encouragement.
Until next year…
Revd Ger James (DYO) 💙
