Last week, Sydney became a place of joyful connection. A group of youth from the United States traveled all the way across the world to attend camp with young people here in Australia. I was grateful to gather with them in the city before they continued on to Victoria for camp. Their journey is a reminder that faith often leads us beyond what is familiar, across distance and difference, so that we might discover the Spirit moving in new ways.

Spending time with this group was a true blessing for me. There was a natural ease in being together that comes from already knowing one another, with no need to prove yourself or retell your story. We marveled at the beauty of the city, delighted in new cultural experiences, and stood together in awe at the vastness of God’s creation. In those precious moments, I felt the grace of God drawing us close.

Out of such experiences comes a gentle reminder for all of us. Within our shared journey is the deep assurance that the Divine presence accompanies us in every place and every moment. Whether we find ourselves in new landscapes or familiar surroundings, the Spirit is with us. In moments of joy and in times of uncertainty, in the stillness of nature and in the rush of our daily routines, we are never alone. The Spirit goes before us to prepare the way, walks beside us to steady our steps, and gathers us into community where we are known, cherished, and sustained. It is in this shared journey that we discover again and again the wonder of God’s boundless love and the gift of belonging.

As the camp unfolds this week, may blessings surround the youth who have gathered, that they might encounter God in new and life-giving ways. May blessings rest on the leaders who give of themselves so generously, that they may be sustained with joy, wisdom, and grace for the journey. And may all who participate return home with hearts renewed, and lives nourished by God’s Spirit alive in community.