Intensive Ruhi training in Canterbury

In Canterbury, 12 youth attended an intensive training camp in the July school holidays at Ngāti Moki Marae in Selwyn District. The youth and 11 supporting adults were welcomed onto the marae by tangata whenua. Koha included copies of The Hidden Words in te reo and English and a kōwhai tree. An explanation of the training was given to the tangata whenua during mihi and introductions. Books 1, 4 and 5 were completed and participants reported there were some great meaningful conversations, and many social activities including bonfire and marshmallows on the beach, leaving “Baha” on stones, star-gazing, the Civilization game, crocheting hats, creating raps about junior youth themes, and re-telling their favourite stories about the Báb and Báha’u’lláh.

Beach activities included a bonfire for roasting marshmallows, star-gazing, and writing "Baha" on stones

At its conclusion a kuia gave feedback that we were a great group and we had cleaned up tidier than any other group, so we were welcome back anytime in the future. A karakia book was gifted to us with traditional and Christian karakia.

Ruhi Books 1, 4 and 5 were completed

Tutors reported that they really enjoyed their study groups, and the harmony between the camp parents, youth and tutors worked especially well. Camp parents expressed how much they enjoyed being around these lovely youth. They were included in ‘compliment posters’ by the youth and youth enjoyed learning from the camp parents about crafts, life stories, etc.

Here is a comment from one of the camp parents:

“Great atmosphere, loving, kind, happy times, lots of food which is really appreciated, lots of questions, beautiful devotions, everyone loves the porridge, enjoys the lunches and positively loves the dinner menu. All getting along fabulously! I’m loving it!”