On the fourth day, Pastor Namanya discussed the topics of living and dying. He pointed out that while education teaches us how to live, including using our talents and becoming better people, it often doesn't cover the important aspect of learning how to face death. He also stressed the significance of not just knowing how to live but also understanding how to approach death gracefully. He used the analogy of a torch in the Christian life, urging believers to keep it burning for Jesus. He emphasized, "Let it be the light of this world. Have a passion for Jesus."

During the evening gathering, he advised everyone to enjoy spiritual activities like reading the Bible, praying, and joining church events. It's crucial to learn about Jesus' life and have a personal connection with Him. "I encourage you to press on, to follow Jesus and to love Him," he appealed. 

Reflections from Camp Activities by Facilitators

Zaphira Arjona, a college student from Mountain View College, is assigned to the Tangram station under the Mathematics Camp. In her role as a facilitator, she takes delight in observing students as they engage with learning shapes and sizes. "We aim to encourage them to explore their creative side by solving puzzles," she expressed. 

She noted that, typically, students may not find math enjoyable. Reflecting on her past, she shared that she didn't appreciate math when she was younger. However, her perspective changed when her mother hired a math tutor who taught her that math is beautiful and fun. Similarly, she aspires to instill in the children the joy of enjoying math, just as she did.

That is why the games are designed to provide students with hands-on experiences in math, moving beyond merely listening to the teacher to actively solving problems and memorizing formulas.
Acknowledging the current lower standing of the Philippines in Science and Math, Arjona expresses hope that through Adventist education, these children can enhance their math knowledge. But most importantly, she envisions them utilizing these skills for the service of the Lord.

Meanwhile, in the Traditional Arts Camp, students focused on painting any objects they wanted to paint. Others happily collaborated with their peers on the ideas of their paintings. Pr. John Mark Benedicto from the Western Mindanao Conference, who led the said camp, encouraged the students to express their emotions through art. "I always tell the children to put their feelings into art."

Pr. Benedicto further said that art comes from God and he hopes that, someday, their talent for art can be used in the church. "God is the Master Painter. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. And he created that through his hands. And we can see the love of God in us and nature."

He aspires that, similarly, art can serve as a tool to spread positivity and love, particularly in conveying Jesus' love to others.

After the evening devotional, students showcased hand mime performances on the Alumni Church stage, in line with the camp's theme. The audience thoroughly enjoyed these presentations until, eventually, the event concluded, marking the end of day four.

By Quin Salarda