For many students, the term “summer school” brings up dread or dismay. Not so for the participants at the Maritime Baha’i Summer School. One of many similar efforts across Canada, it provides a joyful and nurturing learning environment so that this year, 210 people of all ages were attracted to participate from July 2 to 4 at the United Church Camp in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia.
“I think the summer school in the Maritimes is anticipated all year long, and especially significant to those who come from smaller communities,” said Lena Scallion, the secretary of the regional council responsible for seasonal schools. Participants usually come from Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Another school is held in Newfoundland.
What is most striking is the attitude which distinguishes the school. Volunteers labour to prepare three gourmet meals a day, to the delight of participants. Many kitchen helpers say that they’ve never worked so hard in their lives while having so much fun. Similarly, the children’s program teachers impressed one parent by their painstaking attention to detail in beautifying their rough, rustic camp room with flowers, posters and tablecloths. Ms. Scallion summed it up well: “The spirit of service with which they do their work is what makes it so incredible.”
Another highlight is the themed sessions. “The presentations we’ve been having for many years now have been absolutely stunning, and this year was no exception,” Ms. Scallion said. She described the presentation entitled “Transforming Revelation into Social Reality” given by a member of the national Bahá’í governing council, Gordon Naylor, as outstanding.
The pleasant environment was complemented by beautiful weather, without a trace of rain. This allowed participants to take advantage of the daily two hours of free time if they wished to go outside, but they also held special sessions, such as one designed to help youth integrate art into their lives and service. On Saturday evening a variety program also gave the junior youth and children an opportunity to make presentations.
“You should come and experience the spirit,” Ms. Scallion said. “I was so impressed, I thought it was the best summer school we’ve ever had.”
For details of upcoming summer schools in other regions, please refer to the announcement section of this website.