Fellowship, fun, and faith under the sun for St David’s URC Eastham
This summer, members and friends of St David’s United Reformed Church, Eastham came together for their much-loved annual Church Family Camp, a week filled with fellowship, fun, and faith under the sun.
Held at the Boys’ Brigade Camping Centre in Dyffryn Ardudwy, the camp brought together 35 people sleeping under canvas, with a few others joining from nearby accommodation: two from a hotel in Barmouth, three from local chalets, and two families who brought caravans along to the field.
Despite their different sleeping arrangements, everyone came together each day for shared meals, worship, and plenty of laughter. Blessed with glorious weather, campers enjoyed good food, games, crafts, and warm fellowship throughout the week.
Meals were a particular highlight, with a hearty menu that included two roast dinners, corned beef hash, sausage and chips, chilli, and bolognaise, followed by tempting puddings: trifle, cheesecake, and John’s famous rice pudding among them! Lunches were picnic-style with sandwiches, crisps, fruit, and cake, while breakfast offered cereal, toast, and (on one memorable morning) leftover rice pudding.
Each day began or ended with a time of devotion, led by different members of the group. Although the leaders hadn’t planned their themes together, each reflection naturally connected with the next, all focusing on Kindness, Listening, and Thanking God. One devotion even featured a Christmas tree and coloured baubles.
Judith Hill Local Church Leader explained:
“Attendance at daily devotions is one of the few times we insist that everyone joins in. Our camp is an important outreach for St David’s, and it’s wonderful to see people of all ages taking part in worship together.
That spirit of connection continues back home in Eastham. Many campers now attend Café Church and other church events, helping to grow Sunday attendance from around 20 to between 35 and 40 people.
“Encouraging them to come along on other Sundays,” Judith adds, “is still a work in progress — but we’re getting there!”
The week also included plenty of adventure. Campers explored Sygun Copper Mine, discovering how copper was mined in times past, and took a steam train journey to a stunning waterfall walk. While some enjoyed the peaceful view, others couldn’t resist climbing the path across the stream.
With the heatwave making long walks unwise, some opted for gentle strolls around Barmouth, though a few enthusiastic souls still managed to cross the Barmouth Bridge. Another favourite outing was to a beautiful riverside spot (with an impressively long Welsh name!), where some walked to Cymer Abbey and others simply relaxed in the sunshine.
Judith particularly enjoyed that location:
“It’s definitely one we’ll add to future camps. Plenty of green space for the children to run about, and peace for the rest of us to enjoy.”
St David’s would like to express heartfelt thanks to the URC Mersey Synod team, whose £200 donation helped make the camp possible for so many, especially those who might not otherwise have had the chance for a family holiday.
Judith concludes:
“We’re so grateful for this support. It really makes a difference in helping families experience fellowship, faith, and fun together.”
For more information about grants and funding, visit the Grants and Funding page on the URC Mersey Synod website: Grants — URC Mersey
To learn more about the church’s work and upcoming events, visit their website: St David's URC Eastham - St Davids URC Eastham