Camper expected little, had amazing experience

By Jeff Graham

Before he went to his first Western Canada Chinese Catholic Living Camp last year, Simon Tse said, he didn't think he would enjoy himself. He had a desire for God, and knew it was important to connect with other like-minded Catholics, but he was sceptical that he would enjoy spending four days growing in relationship with God and with other people of Chinese descent.

Jeff Graham / The B.C. Catholic Do you need to get away for a few days this summer? Do you speak Cantonese? Those who do can save money by registering before July 15 for the 2007 Western Canada Chinese Catholic Living Camp in Chilliwack.

Jeff Graham / The B.C. Catholic Many friendships are forged at WCCCLC camps. Above, some of the 2006 group.

"I moved back to Vancouver after going to school in the East, and thought I would give the camp a try," he said. "I didn't expect much, but I really had an amazing experience. I met a number of people within my parish that I saw every Sunday and never bothered to talk to, but the camp helped me connect with them really well."

WCCCLC runs during the Labour Day weekend every year. This year the camp will be held at Charis Camp in Chilliwack from Aug. 31 to Sept. 3 with the theme Journey of Happiness: Attitude or Gratitude. Father Lucas Chan, SJ, of Hong Kong will be the keynote speaker.

The general themes of the camp involve discussion about happiness, being grateful, and having the right attitude toward life. The camp will also include adoration of the Holy Eucharist, daily Mass, Taize prayer, and reconciliation. The primary language used will be Cantonese.

"I wouldn't miss this camp for other Labour Day festivities," said Simon. "The camp is so relaxing, and you get so much more out of it than you do with a regular vacation."

He explained that after the WCCCLC, participants come back refreshed.

"The idea is that we're getting away from the city, away from everyday life, to focus on growing our relationship with God together as a Chinese Catholic community. We're hoping to re-energize the people who come so they can go back and energize their parishes."

At the camp participants share with each other spiritually, participate in Christian community life, and learn about Chinese culture.

The early-bird price for the camp is $155 for students and $180 for working adults. The early-bird deadline is July 15. The regular rate for the camp is $195, and registration can be done online at www.catholic-church.org/wccclc/. General inquiries are taken at wccclc.info@gmail.com.