Courtney Herod
Henry Johnson
The Carolina Conference hosted their annual Camp Meeting at Lake Junaluska in North Carolina, May 28-June 3, 2017. The theme for the week was “Sharing Him,” which centered on their mission as believers to spread the Good News. Hundreds of Seventh-day Adventists traveled from around the Conference to enjoy fellowship with friends and to draw closer to God.
The administrative staff of the Conference handpicked talented, spiritual speakers to share the wisdom with which God has blessed them. The evening speakers this year were Don Livesay, president of the Lake Union Conference, and Mike Tucker, speaker/director for Faith for Today. Over the course of the week, these two men brought the Gospel to life during their vibrant presentations.
In addition to the evening meetings, there were multiple daily seminars to attend, with topics ranging from family matters to reaching out to Muslims to understanding Ellen White. The speakers and Conference staff prayerfully chose these subjects with current issues in mind. Additionally, the children’s meetings focused on sharing Jesus’ love with the next generation of believers. Through crafts, singing, videos, and stories, the young people in the Conference came to know Jesus more each day. Many of the children enjoyed reuniting with friends from previous Camp Meetings as well as creating new friendships.
Throughout the week, several groups are acknowledged and honored during the main evening meetings. On Monday evening, which falls on Memorial Day each year, the veterans were recognized and honored for their willingness to fight for this country. Additionally, senior citizens receive a special tribute on Wednesday evening, which entails identifying both the oldest male and female visitor in attendance. This ceremony is quite special, as it reminds young church members of the commitment their elders have made to serve Christ for their entire lives.
Tying in with this year’s theme, Sharing Him, the youth attending Camp Meeting decided to give back to the community in two different ways. One group repainted guard rails on the residential side of the lake, while another team journeyed to local neighborhoods where they handed out copies of The Great Controversy and other literature. They offered to have prayer for the people they encountered. The youth were an example to the adults of what it truly means to share Him.
This year’s Camp Meeting was a blessing for all who were present, and church members were encouraged to share Jesus with the people they encounter each day. Everyone in attendance left Lake Junaluska on fire for Christ, ready to spread the Good News with those around them. Attendees are already looking forward to next summer when they can reunite with fellow believers once again and continue to learn more about the eternal Savior.
Carolina | July 2017
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