Freedom 4 #4 Carroty Wood 8th- 11th September 2011

How can one describe a Freedom 4 weekend?

A bit like ‘Cursillo’ but different; A bit like ‘Happening’ but different again!: Freedom 4 is the name for a weekend of activity, discussion and fun, organised by the Free on the Inside charity, part of the Fourth Day Movement.
The latest event took place at Carrotty Wood near Tonbridge in early September 2011 and I was delighted to be asked along to help on the staff team.

The first challenge was to find the adventure centre. After morning tea and biscuits at my daughter’s house I set off, maps, sat-nav’ and directions at the ready. I enjoyed a pleasant drive through the Kent countryside and arrived at 2pm to find several staff members already present erecting a marquee and smaller tents in a grassy clearing.
I set about my own tasks in the staff room and before I knew it, had made friends with Dawn, my ‘prayer partner’ for the weekend.

14 pilgrims arrived and we were soon happily chatting and getting to know one another, sharing a first meal and evening worship together.

Sleeping arrangements were varied: many braved the elements and ‘communed with nature’ under canvas, whilst some of us were blessed with a bed, or even a whole bedroom, in the chalet-style accommodation provided.
The next day, Dawn and I had plenty with which to busy ourselves but not so busy that we couldn’t have a go at Archery – under the guidance of an experienced (and very patient) instructor from Rock UK.

The activities over the weekend were many and varied, but I don’t want to spoil the fun for future participants. Suffice to say that there were funny moments, tiring moments, emotional moments and inspirational moments as the Holy Spirit moved amongst us and touched our hearts. The more we relaxed and enjoyed our time together, the greater the bond of Christian fellowship became. 

The worst thing?
The battle against the mud from outside which seemed to want to join us indoors!

The best  thing?
There are many memories to make one’s heart leap for joy at the wonder of God’s grace: good food; good company and meaningful worship, but my lasting memory is of sitting outside by a warm campfire, listening to talented musicians and joining in with fellow Christians singing simple worship songs: an impromptu event but a perfect end to a late summer’s evening.

My thanks to the staff team who made everyone feel so welcome, and the pilgrims who shared their own experiences as they opened their hearts to God’s love and blessings. It was a privilege to be there and I look forward to meeting the group during the year to hear about their Fourth Day experiences.