Douala, Cameroun. The 4th edition of the Claret Gospel Children’s Camp (CGC) took place from August 1st to 4th, 2024, at the Claret Youth Training Centre in Ndobo Bonaberi, Douala. The camp, themed “Come to me as you are” (cf. Rm. 13:13), and inspired by the Pope’s message to young people in Portugal, brought together around a hundred children aged 14 to 18. The lay collaborators, particularly from the youth sector, served as their coordinators.
The CGC group, an initiative of the Claretians of Cameroon Independent Delegation, aims to provide biblical, theatrical, and musical education for children. This involves teaching children how to study the Word of God and how to share it with others through theater arts and music.
![IMG 20240807 WA0006 1 Img 20240807 Wa0006](https://i0.wp.com/www.claret.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG-20240807-WA0006.jpg?resize=960%2C540&ssl=1)
![IMG 20240807 WA0005 2 Img 20240807 Wa0005](https://i0.wp.com/www.claret.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG-20240807-WA0005.jpg?resize=1024%2C478&ssl=1)
![IMG 20240807 WA0003 3 Img 20240807 Wa0003](https://i0.wp.com/www.claret.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG-20240807-WA0003.jpg?resize=1024%2C478&ssl=1)
![IMG 20240807 WA0004 4 Img 20240807 Wa0004](https://i0.wp.com/www.claret.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG-20240807-WA0004.jpg?resize=1024%2C478&ssl=1)
The camp had several essential aspects. The children acted as panelists in various conferences, which the coordinators moderated. There were also workshops and a showcase of the children’s talents, including a Bible quiz based on Saint Paul’s letter to the Romans and the YOUCAT and a drama about Saint Paul’s conversion. In addition, there were traditional dances, games, and other activities.
The camp was sustained by daily Eucharistic celebrations, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, recitation of the rosary, and other activities.