InterSections
inform - encourage - unite
CHURCH SCENE
Celebrating 40 years of 50-and-Over Retreats Bob Marks
For four decades, a remarkable tradition has brought together Christians in Australia who are aged 50-and-over for a mid-year retreat. This annual time away goes beyond mere vacationing. It has developed into a celebration of brotherhood, strengthening of individual faith, and fostering of lifelong friendships. The gatherings have become a time and place where participants can reflect, rejuvenate, and reconnect each year, thus adding new layers of memories and experiences towards a fuller life.
The origins of the retreat date back to 1984. A small group of visionaries, led by sisters Jenny and Judy Barker (now Jenny Ancell and Judy Bebe, respectively), recognised the unique needs and aspirations of the 50-plus demographic among Churches of Christ in Australia. They decided to create a space dedicated to personal well-being and Christian fellowship. What began as a small gathering has blossomed into a much anticipated annual event, drawing participants from all over the country.
Originally, the retreat was known as Camp Orana and it began on the Southern Tablelands of NSW. Its tranquil country setting fostered walking and talking with friends, as well as friends-to-be. Camp Orana was seen as a gathering at which you could meet and have warm fellowship with people you would otherwise never have known.
In time, the retreat moved to Merroo Christian Centre at Kurrajong, NSW, where it was held for many years. After a break due to the Covid pandemic, the retreat moved to the Mt Carmel Retreat Centre at Varroville, NSW, where it is held today.
It’s not unusual for some 50-year-olds - when first approached about coming to the retreat - to be in denial about their age and suitability for the retreat. But when they can deny it no longer, perhaps after maybe ten years or so, they come along. Then they enjoy it so much that they wish they had been coming all along!
For many participants, the retreat starts at least a week before the scheduled start of camp. They consider what they will take; they check the weather forecast to get an idea of what clothes and bedding they will need (for many years a themed fancy dress evening at the retreat also necessitated the acquisition or making of a period costume or Disney outfit); many also bring along other campers, picking them up at their homes, a railway station, or even the airport.
As if coming to the retreat were not enough time spent together, for many years a picnic lunch was held at a park near the retreat venues – in Berrima or Berry on the Southern Tablelands, and then North Richmond near Kurrajong. All who could make it (and usually almost everyone could) would arrive, give mutual hugs and hearty handshakes, and eat together.
Over the years, the retreat has seen an impressive variety of themes. A banner boldly stating the theme would be prepared and hung in the conference room. These themes were momentous, like 'Ministering for God'. This saw retreaters consider the ways in which Christians could serve the Lord with the gifts and talents he has given them. Another theme, 'Doing it Heartily as unto the Lord', explored the attitudes that should accompany our service. Commitment to Christ was explored in the theme, 'Into the Heart of Jesus'. The May 2024 camp theme, 'My God and I', sought to remind us of just how close God is to us and how he wants us to be close to him.
Singing hymns and choruses is a big part of our time together. We sing perhaps an hour or two at various times each day. The songs are often ones that retreaters know but haven’t sung in years. They are sung with great delight. Also, there are many prayers led before and after lessons, but on Sunday afternoon a special prayer session of about 45 minutes is held. Men and women are separated into two groups, and are invited to join in chain prayers on matters pertinent to them.
Most evenings, fun activities are organised. These have included getting-to-know-you activities, lively auctions, funny skits, and competitive trivia nights. This year there was special entertainment with a Barbershop Quartet!
As we look back on four decades of 50-and-Over retreats, all can feel the sense of brotherhood that has been their heartbeat. We greatly appreciate all those dear souls who throughout the years have faithfully served as part of the organising committee.
Many participants return year after year, creating a tapestry of friendships and shared experiences thatenrich their lives long after the retreat ends. And these are the connections that help us as we continue our journey towards eternity.
Bob Marks has long been a participant, organiser, and supporter of the 50-and-Over Retreats. Bob and his wife, Lynne, are members of Warringah Church of Christ in Sydney. bobmarks@hotmail.com
