The United Youth Camp 2005 is just a few months away! Based on the successes of past camps, UYC 2005 plans to include again (God willing) the much-awaited Mount Apo Challenge—to climb the highest peak in the Philippines (10,311 feet above sea level)!

United Youth Camp is open to teenagers aged 13 to 18 who are physically fit, and with a favorable recommendation from their pastors. In like manner, staff applicants (in addition to the basic camper requirements) should have abilities or skills, and an attitude of service and maturity which qualifies them for the position they are applying for.

Camp will once again be held at the cool and beautiful Eden Nature Park in Davao City from May 22 to 28 for Part I, and the Mount Apo Challenge from May 29 to June 2 for Part II. Please note that we are considering Part II to be mandatory for all campers this year, since the awarding ceremony is envisioned to be held at the peak! Therefore, all prospective campers are expected to prepare themselves physically for at least a month or more, which should include climbing and jogging exercises. Basically, the more one prepares, the more enjoyable the climb will be for him or her. And of course, the reverse is also true. The less one is prepared, the more he or she will endure the climb. Therefore, it is best to be prepared in every possible way: spiritually, physically, financially, etc.

Tuition for campers is pegged at a modest P1,500 (pesos) covering food and accommodation for the entire 12-day program. Obviously, this amount is not enough to cover actual expenses. The Church subsidizes the balance required. Between now and the camp, most of you should be able to produce the needed amount through various means. If there is difficulty, please contact your Church pastor. If he cannot solve your problem locally, he may contact the camp director to see what can be done.

Camper and staff application forms will be available from your local Church pastors or from our Philippine UCG Web site at http://www.ucg.org.ph. Please fill up the form completely including the attached Health History and Examination forms. Application forms must be submitted no later than March 31, 2005, together with a refundable P200 deposit for the camper application. If you have further questions or difficulties about attending camp, you may also contact the camp director directly at 0918-904-4444 or e-mail him at uyc@ucg.org.ph. On related matters, he will coordinate with your Church pastor.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be part of those who have conquered the challenge by successfully reaching the peak of Mount Apo and back safely! We hope to see you at the United Youth Camp 2005! UNP