The South Atlantic Conference Camp Meeting held at River Oaks Campground in Orangeburg, S.C., was a resounding success, drawing a total of 4,000 attendees. Themed “Unleashing the Power,” the nine-day event featured inspirational speakers, a variety of workshops, and engaging activities for all ages.
Services were held daily at 7 a.m., 12 noon, and 7 p.m., offering attendees ample opportunities for worship and reflection. The services were enhanced by the new 11×26-foot video wall. The event’s featured speakers were Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min., Southwest Region Conference president, and G. Alexander Bryant, D.Min., North American Division president. Their powerful messages, along with those of the morning and noon speakers, resonated with attendees, inspiring many to deepen their spiritual journey. Nordia Ikner led the clergy spouses service, providing encouragement to all, but specifically the women.
The event offered a wide range of workshops designed to cater to various interests and needs. Topics included grandparenting, divorce avoidance, gardening, last-day events, automobile mechanics, disaster preparedness, effective community engagement, self-defense, and financial freedom. These sessions provided practical skills and knowledge, enriching the lives of the participants.
The Conference administration, led by Calvin B. Preston, South Atlantic president, held a town hall meeting to share events and future direction for the Conference.
The Youth Ministries Department, under the direction of John Newlove, organized numerous activities to keep the young and young at heart engaged. These included volleyball and basketball tournaments, with the highlight being the annual campers vs. pastors basketball game, where the campers claimed victory once again. There was also a baptism class and classes teaching crochet, cake pop making, journaling, and scrapbooking.
Friday was designated as Family Fun Friday, featuring a festival with activities for children, youth, and adults. The festival included a mini zoo, bouncy house, and water slide, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. The evening concluded with Friday Vesper around a bonfire, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
The Children’s Ministries Department served more than 200 children each day. Under the leadership of Darryl Howard, the children learned that, as followers of Jesus, He will help them unleash power to live for Him.
Thunder Island Vacation Bible School 2024 was an excellent addition to the spirit-filled lessons. With colorful island waterfalls, caves, coconut trees, and under-the-sea decorations, the children advanced to different stations to experience crafts, games, and Bible stories, and to dive deep in prayer at the Scuba Shack.
Other fun activities for the children during the day featured a Robotic Camp and a children’s petting zoo with a baby kangaroo, as well as waterslides, games, and delicious foods. A new feature was added to the activities this year. A day camp hosted more than 15 children from the community.
Retirees were honored for their dedicated service during Camp Meeting. William L. Winston, South Atlantic Conference president emeritus, was celebrated for 36 years of service; Ezra Mendinghall was recognized for 46 years of service; and Gregg Robinzine was recognized for 32 years of service.
The final service was a solemn ordination ceremony with speaker Ivan Williams, D.Min., North American Division ministerial director, who delivered an uplifting message. Five ordinands were welcomed into the Gospel ministry: Howard Brown, Fredy Canales, Demar Felix Fearon, D.Min., Max Isai Gomez Vasquez, and John R. Sconiers II, D.Min., were celebrated for their commitment to serving their communities and spreading the Word of God.
Camp Meeting was a testament to the power of faith, community, and service. As campers left the campground, they carried a deeper sense of purpose and readiness to unleash their services in their communities.
South Atlantic | August 2024
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