YONZO...OMTO???

Hi Yall,

We have arrived at the end of the year 2013, and the students have left these hallowed walls of The Old Convent here in Kaikoura, NZ. We, staff, are still smiling at the times shared with them and we are deeply grateful for this kind and loving group of people.

With all the Disco that was listened to and the gaudy sweaters
that were worn - this sure felt like the 70's :)

The students had a wonderful last couple of weeks that really tied up the loose ends of their semester. They finished their last bits of academics entitled, "Integration Week" facilitated by our wonderful director, Courtnay Wilson. During this course students had the opportunity to compile all that they learned and experienced here at CCSP NZ by writing a comprehensive paper. This was a big task to complete, but all of the students benefitted from the closure it brought to their time here. Some students even said they would keep this paper for their ENTIRE lives!!!!!! Good on 'em.

After the papers were turned in, documentaries were watched, betterment projects were revealed, and deep discussions were had - Integration Week was over.

The last week students spent here is called Debrief Week. This allowed students to process what they have experienced, are experiencing, and will experience because of their time here at CCSP. The week was filled with lovely time spent together through great meals, fun day hikes, large group discussions and activities, and plenty of exclamations of, "YONZO!" - Your Only In New Zealand Once.

Students Leah, Rob, and Diane stride up stream
on a beautiful hike to Sawcut Gorge

Overall, the students and staff of Fall 2013 had a fantastic semester. Strong friendships were formed and as our friend Lisa said, "This group truly became our whanau" (family in the Maori language). Although it was sad to see them leave, the time we shared together will illuminate all of our future experiences and commitments.

God is so good in his blessings! We have been blessed by Diane, Kelsey, Steve, Monica, Emma, Rebekah, Jacob, Leah, Jenna, and Rob. Good on ya' my brothers and sisters.

What a bunch of lovely and goofy "ratbagz"!

Remember - "YONZO....OMTO?" - Your Only In New Zealand Once....Or More Than Once? :)

Cheers,

Adam (Co-Student Life Coordinator CCSP NZ)

Almost a Wrap

Hi Yall!

The students have nearly finished all of their courses here at CCSP. Time sure does fly!

So far:

They were challenged by the social issues raised in Sustainable Community Development. 

In their two week course of God & Nature, they were encouraged to approach the Bible with an agrarian/land-based perspective.  In addition, students learned about the significance of how Jesus Christ's death redeemed ALL of creation, not just humankind.

God & Nature I: Students, Staff, and Professor Davis engage in
a student led session.

In Environmental Literature students read until their brain's were as fit as olympic decathalonists. Under the tutorage of Dr. Susan M. Felch (Professor of English, Calvin College), they explored texts by Annie Dillard, Wendell Berry, the Kiwi author Patricia Grace, and many many more. Students were enriched by the class discussions, the individual assignments, and the opportunity to read intentionally with close attention to detail.

The students recently wrapped-up their two-week course in Terrestrial Ecology with Dr. David Warners (Professor of Biology, Calvin College). 

CCSP's Thanksgiving mascot "Flamurkey"

The semester is drawing to a close with less than 2 weeks left. However, there is still more learning to engage in, more shenanigans to be had, more bon-fires on the beach to set ablaze, and more delicious meals to eat!

Lots of wonderful food for a lot of lovely people.

Speaking of meals, culinary delights were shared at our belated THANKSGIVING FEAST - Old Convent Style! Students and staff joined forces to make a fantastic array of Thanksgiving dishes ranging from sweet potato mash, green bean casserole, sausage stuffing, corn bake, heaps of sweet treats, and a good ol' turkey. It was yum-as!!!!

Anyway, Viva la Vida here at CCSP and Happy Christmas season's greetings to all yall!

Cheers, 

Adam (CCSP Student Life Coordinator)