Set in a secluded location, far from the hustle and bustle of tourist-filled Władysławowo, the "Władek" student camp, an initiative of the Christian Movement Mt28, has allowed young people to experience faith and community for 20 years. The latest camp, despite challenges, was exceptional, and the organizers look to the future with hope.
20 Years of Faith, 20 Years of Change
Jacek Peżyński, the new coordinator of the "Władek" project, explains that the camp has been inspiring students for two decades. "We've seen young people come to Jesus, experience community, and gain their first experience in sharing the Gospel. All of this later translates into their involvement in local churches," Jacek emphasizes, pointing to the lasting impact of the initiative on participants' lives.
"We currently own the center, which allows us to adapt the space to our needs. Every year, we see growing interest among students in this place," says Jacek Peżyński.
Over the years, the camp grounds have undergone a tremendous transformation: from a tent field with portable toilets, it has become a space with residential cabins, a sanitary building, and a hut.
A Year Marked by Challenges
Aneta Szpyrka, the organizer of this year's "Władek," admits it involved many difficulties. However, despite bad weather, many cases of COVID-19, and trips to the Emergency Room, the camp proved to be an absolute success. "I think that the combination of weak internet, difficult conditions, the sea, daily focus on God, and living in a community makes Władek Camp a unique event," says Aneta, summarizing the eight intense days.
This year's camp attracted a record number of nearly fifty students, which was a major organizational challenge. The day was filled with workshops, activities integrating participants, and joint worship of God. An important moment of every camp is the evangelistic outreach. This is when some students can talk about Jesus with strangers for the first time. "This year, I was very encouraged by the participants' involvement in the camp program," adds Aneta Szpyrka, mentioning Filip, who, after last year's experience, led a workshop himself this year, as well as Iza and Michaela, who took charge of the integration program.
What Do the Students Themselves Say About the Camp?
Władek Camp is undoubtedly a unique place, confirmed by the participants themselves. As one student says, this time "taught me to open up to people, but also to have complete trust in God. It also showed me where I am in life, because I didn't expect to find such a wonderful group of people who love God and want to serve Him."
Another participant emphasizes that "it's a time when we can feel like ourselves, disconnect from the virtual world, meet loving people, and draw closer to God." Another person adds, "if you think you are not suited for relationships with other people, you can 'unlie' that about yourself at this camp." These statements best reflect the great value this camp carries.
The Vision for the Future is a "Godly Space"
Seeing the growing interest of students in this place and project, the organizers have ambitious plans. The biggest challenge is the construction of a new building to replace the current shed/shelter. "This would allow us to increase the number of participants and significantly improve the comfort of their stay," explains Jacek Peżyński.
Although students fondly recall the leaking roof of the old hut, the time has come for changes that will ensure the development of the camp community.
The vision for the future is to make the camp a "Godly space"—a place where young people can come in large numbers to experience Christian community, acceptance, and truth. The organizers want to make this place available not only to the ministries of the Christian Movement Mt28 but also to other churches and communities to build God's Kingdom.
"Władek" is more than just a camp—it is a place that changes lives, builds lasting relationships, brings students closer to God, and teaches them to present the Good News to strangers. The history of "Władek" and its plans for the future testify that its mission will continue, inspiring subsequent generations to live in faith and community.
If you want to contribute to this project, you can make a transfer for any amount with the note – NOWA WIATA – WŁADEK (New Hut – Władek): https://www.mt28.pl/bramka.html
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