The JBGC Sunbeam Club planned a campfire and outing to the Hutan Bandar on 22 of May 1999. As the day approached for the outing, we all began to feel very excited. On the day of the outing, we all gathered at JBGC by 5.00 p.m. As soon as everyone arrived, we were divided into three groups.

The first group was led by Uncle Abraham, the second by Sister Huey Yu and the third group by Uncle Nathan. There was also a fourth group consisting of adults. After getting some instructions from Uncle James and a prayer for protection, we set off for the Hutan Bandar. Some of us went by car and some by van. Just as we were approaching the Hutan Bandar it started to rain. Many of us prayed and God answered our prayers. A few minutes later, the rain stopped.

We all gathered in the car park in our little groups, which actually was not very little, with all Aunty Usha’s students whom she had invited. As we walked towards the entrance of the Hutan Bandar, the first thing that greeted us was a big lake filled with fish and tortoises. After observing them with much excitement for a while, we continued walking along and soon found ourselves in a small but very colourful playground. The sight of the playground made us feel even more excited. The park has a number of playgrounds with each more challenging than the other. But Uncle James gave us only five minutes to satisfy our hearts content playing in each section. Each playground has its own type of games and activities. There were all kinds of slides, swings and so on. There were also many kinds of puzzles and mazes.

Towards the end of the walk we came to a reflexology foot path. Uncle James decided that we all have a race down the reflexology foot path. To walk down this path we have to remove our shoes. Of course all the kids were able to win the race ahead of all the adults. And, we were rewarded with ‘Kit Kat’ by Aunty Mee King. Then we came to a section which was actually an exercise playground. After five more minutes of fun. We all gathered at the carpark and went back to church in the same vehicles we came in.

When we arrived at the church, a very sumptuous dinner prepared by a few aunties was waiting. While we were having dinner Uncle Charles and some young people started the campfire. After dinner we all sat around the campfire and led by Sister Huey Yu, sang songs praising our God. Then Uncle Charles told us a story about Samson’s life. After the story, we were divided into three groups and had a treasure hunt organised by Aunty May Yong. Each group leader was given a big torchlight and at the signal to begin, everyone ran here and there looking for clues. It was not easy and although none of the groups managed to win, we had a lot of fun.

By this time it was getting late, and together with Uncle James, we all gave thanks to God for the wonderful day that He had given us. Soon it was time to go home and by 9.30pm we said bye bye to each other still thinking of the wonderful day and fun that we had.

By Naomi Williams