MEPA DECAMPS

by Matthew Glock

MEPA is committed to taking the Gospel to children. One of the ways to do this in France is through summer colonies de vacances.

Government subsidies are often available for these camps, which play a vital role in the life of French children. Activities range from mountaineering and skiing to drama and painting. The Ministry of Youth and Sport demands high standards of those organising a colo: in particular, the director and a proportion of other workers must possess appropriate state qualifications.

MEPA decided three years ago that its staff should undergo the training required to work on colos. The BAFA (children's worker) training consists of two one-week residential courses and a two-week placement on a camp. Susan Howe completed her BAFA qualification in 1995.

This summer Richard, Margaret and Matthew did their practical placements. As well as taking them a step closer to obtaining a useful piece of paper, it gave them good opportunities to present the Gospel and to train other children's workers.

Margaret completed the final part of her BAFA in October, picking up a first-aid certificate en route. Richard and Matthew should complete their training early in 1998.

Next summer we will be organising a colo of our own, in colaboration with the national youth department of the Eglise Evangélique Libre. The plan is to prepare a puppet show with a group of 14-18 year-olds, which the teenagers will then present in village festivals. Susan will direct this project as the first practical placement of her BAFD (director's qualification). Please pray for us as we make the necessary preparations over the next few months.