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TSCC Newsletter

TSCC Newsletter

December 2024 Update

Brian's Desk

Ask and ye shall receive.

As we prepare for the upcoming summer with Family Camps, Teens Camp, Epic Youth, Kids Camps, and Elite Sports, we are also rounding off the year with school groups and youth sports before we head into Christmas. Amidst the busyness of preparing for the summer ahead, we often focus so much on ensuring everything is ready on a practical level that we overlook the preparation of our hearts. We can be in such a rush that Christmas can come and go, leaving us more relieved that it's over than reflective on its significance. At Christmas we remember a unique moment where the spiritual and physical unite in a profound way, with the birth of Jesus.


The birth of Jesus is an extraordinary reminder of God's intention for humanity to engage not only in the physical world but also to release His power through the Spirit of God. By inviting the Spirit of God into our daily activities, we enable Jesus, the Son of God, to advocate on our behalf as our great high priest before God the Father. This union is beautifully illustrated by the vulnerability Jesus showed by coming to us as a baby—entrusting His life and development into the Father's hands. This is seen as God the Father sent angels to warn the wise men to go home a different way, and Joseph was woken in the night to leave for Egypt. When we keep God as part of our daily lives, we are able to hear His leading and guiding presence.


As we approach Christmas, let's not lose our sense of vulnerability by letting the practical overcome the spiritual. Let's remember the spiritual aspects of this season amidst the practical preparations.

Tōtara Cabins Project

It was great to be part of the Family Fun Day at the Springs. Hundreds of people had registered to come for the afternoon, for some reason we didn’t quite see those numbers on site but those who did come had a blast. It was great to see people on the go carts, mini golf, archery tag, waterslide etc and we had the new cabins profile set out on the soccer field. There were some good conversations with those who came about camps at the Springs that their kids could attend.


Right on que the council came back to the building committee with requests for more information about the new cabins project and the team are working through those now.


The funding team are still talking with local trusts about partnering with this exciting project, its gaining momentum as we make progress with council consents and requirements.


Thank you for your prayerful interest, please contact Brian Bonner or myself if you would like to chat about supporting this project.


Till next time

Family Fun Day 16 Nov 24

What else is happening at camp?

MINISTRY CAMPS

Easter Camp

EASTER CAMP is a great way to have a low stress, high fun, family holiday. The kids will be non-stop as they explore Totara Springs and make new lifelong friendships, while the adults get to relax, skip the cooking for a week and get great teaching during family hour.


  • All ages.

  • Choose accommodation to suit your family

  • 18th -21st April

Teens Camp

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at Teens Camp 2025!

We’re excited to announce that registrations are now open for ages 13-18. Join us from January 10th to 13th for a summer filled with fun, adventure, worship, and new friendships.


Don’t miss out—sign up today!

Summer Kids Camp

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at our holiday kids camp with a fun Monopoly theme! We have exciting activities lined up, including thrilling water games and challenges with friends.


Discover the incredible truth that God’s love is a free gift—no need to buy it! We’ll learn how this priceless gift enriches our lives through engaging lessons and fun experiences.


Don’t miss this chance to see your kids make new friends, have a blast, and grow in their faith. Join us for a week of fun, laughter, and lasting memories—we can’t wait to see you there!

SENIOR KIDS CAMP

Senior Kids Overnight Camp "Tot-tropoly"

  • Dates: Mon 20th Jan 2025 - Thurs 23rd Jan
  • Age Group: 8-12 years old
  • $225


Senior Kids Day Pass Camp "Tot-tropoly"


  • Dates: Mon 20th Jan - Wed 22nd Jan - (8.30-5pm)
  • Age Group: 8-12 year old
  • $120

JUNIOR KIDS CAMP

Junior Kids Overnight Camp "Tot-tropoly"

  • Dates: Mon 20th Jan 2025 - Wed 22nd Jan
  • Age Group: 6-8 years old
  • $160


Junior Kids Day Pass Camp "Tot-tropoly"

  • Dates: Mon 20th Jan - Wed 22nd Jan - (8.30-5pm)
  • Age Group: 6-8 years old
  • $120

Dear Prayer Partners,


We are reminded of God's faithfulness in every season. Your prayers and intercession continue to be the cornerstone of our ministry in Christian Camping, impacting lives in ways only God could orchestrate.


“Prayer does not change God, but it changes who prays.” - Soren Kierkegaard.

We invite you to share this prayer request letter with your friends and colleagues involved in intercession, as we believe in the power of communal prayers.


THANK GOD:

  • For a year, His faithful hand established the leadership and staff to serve our guests with the love of Christ and excellent hospitality.

  • For new staff added to the team, growing in grace and resilience.

  • Staff who have found a renewed meaning and direction through their work experience at Totara Springs as a memorable experience they carry into new ventures.

  • For stakeholders who faithfully supported the ministry throughout the year, making it possible for campers to experience Christ Jesus.

  • Campers who have encountered Jesus through camp and are being disciplined through their local Church.

  • The plans and progression to expand TSCC infrastructure are as follows: The cabin project is dedicated to continuing the legacy started by the previous generation by offering excellent hospitality.


Activities:

  • Youth Sports camp.

  • Summer Holiday Camp - Family Camp A & B, Teens, Epic Youth, JKids, Senior kids, Elite Sports Camp.

  • Internship Program 2025/26.

  • Summer staff signed up and serving at camp during the holiday.




Intercession:

  • Father, we pray for the spiritual and communal growth of our staff and Summer volunteers. May our hearts be aligned with Yours as we serve our guests.

  • Pray for our camps to experience the love of Jesus, who takes their camp experience back into the community.

  • Pray for the Gospel of Jesus to reach the unreached.

  • Pray for leaders and volunteers - physical strength and spiritual growth.

  • Pray for the planning and preparation of the upcoming Summer Holiday camps, that they may impact young lives and families for Christ.

  • Join us as we continue to look to the Lord for the Cabin project.

  • Pray for the property team working through maintenance and projects as we close this year.

  • Pray for newly appointed staff.


To love, to serve, and never to give up!!


Ministry Development Team
Totara Springs Christian Centre

Tōtara Springs Christian Centre

We are a Christian camp that brings God’s love to each person who visits. We are especially committed to serving our guests with outstanding hospitality.

Email: holidaycamps@totarasprings.org.nz
Website: https://www.totarasprings.org.nz/
Location: 288C Taihoa North Road, Matamata, New Zealand
Phone: 07 888 4700
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totarasprings

Totara Springs