Aly MacP

Hi My name is Alasdair MacPherson and I go to the Brae Gospel Hall, one of the churches responsible for organising the camp in July. Having read people's comments I am concerned that people misunderstand what is done at the camp as we aim to be open and transparent in what we do. Just to start with, I too saw the documentary, "Jesus Camp" and was also disturbed at what went on and can assure anyone that that is not the way that we run the camp at Sumburgh. We appreciate that parents entrust their children to us for one week and therefore we are in a responsible position and would not want to do anything that would adversely affect children in our care. To this end whatever maybe believed by workers at the camp we are very definite towards leaders and speakers that they do not preach "hellfire" to children. We do not view that as an appropriate subject for a child. We do teach bible stories, and attempt to stick to what the bible actually says and not embellish that in any way. For many children camp is an opportunity to make new friends and share experiences and activities with their friends. Often it is the first time they have stayed away from home and being able to accomplish these goals and many others provides a growth in a child's confidence, which we think is an important aspect of what camp is about. We have three weeks of camp with different ages coming to the different weeks, the last week is for teenagers. We do tackle issues which are more relevant to teenagers. There were images this year taken from Mel Gibson's "The Passion" a mainstream movie, but care was taken that there were no images that were distasteful or which glorified the violence. Also at no time was there any anti Jew propaganda. We do not promote any hatred of any group but rather love, again a positive message when there is so much ill feeling between people. It has been stated that we look down with disdain on all who don't' go to our church, especially Jews. That is entirely against what we teach and how we try to live. We would clarify that there were no leaders or workers of any description who left because they could not condone what individuals were doing. Also, any time those from social work have had contact with the camp the report back is that the authorities are very satisfied with the level of care and concern being shown to the children. Over the past 15 years many children from all over Shetland have benefited from their time at the camp. Very frequently we hear feedback from parents who say who much their child enjoyed their week and how thankful they are for all that has been done for them. However we are not perfect and there are always improvements that can be made. We would be very happy if people have any suggestions on how they think the camp could be improved. If anyone would like to discuss any issues further then either myself or others would be happy to speak. You can phone me on 01806 522482. It is our practise to welcome visitors to the camp should someone wish to attend and watch first-hand. thanks Alasdair