Oshkosh, Wisconsin—From across the globe, over 50,000 Pathfinders gathered at the 2024 International Pathfinder Camporee for a week of worship, service, and spiritual growth. Held from August 5–11, the event featured inspiring speakers, interactive faith-building activities, and opportunities for young people to develop a deeper relationship with Christ.

Unity in Diversity

The camporee welcomed Pathfinders from more than 100 countries, representing a broad spectrum of cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Despite the diversity, the atmosphere was one of unity—all participants were united in their love for God and their commitment to live out Christian values. During the opening ceremony, Pastor John Smith, one of the keynote speakers, reminded the audience that "In Christ, we are all one body, called to serve Him together."

Throughout the event, Pathfinders participated in community service projects, such as distributing food, planting trees, and visiting local nursing homes. These projects were not only a way to bless the local community but also a reminder of the importance of service in the Christian walk. Read more about how Pathfinders are serving their communities.

A Call to Spiritual Revival

Worship sessions at the camporee were powerful moments of reflection and commitment. Each evening, Pathfinders gathered for worship under a massive tent, where the atmosphere was filled with praise music and heartfelt prayer. Pastor Mary Rivera, another featured speaker, encouraged young people to "let their lights shine for Jesus in a dark world," drawing inspiration from Matthew 5:16. Thousands of young hearts responded to altar calls throughout the week, rededicating their lives to Jesus and vowing to be His witnesses in their homes and schools.

One of the highlights was the baptismal ceremony, where over 300 young people publicly declared their decision to follow Christ through baptism. "It was a life-changing experience for me," shared 16-year-old Emily Chang, a Pathfinder from Taiwan. "I've always believed in Jesus, but this camporee helped me take my faith to the next level." Explore more about the impact of the camporee.

Building Lifelong Friendships

Apart from spiritual growth, the camporee provided an opportunity for Pathfinders to build lifelong friendships. Through outdoor activities such as camping, obstacle courses, and sports, the youth connected with others who share the same faith and values. "I met so many new friends from all over the world," said David Rodriguez, a 15-year-old from Mexico. "It's amazing to see how big the Adventist family really is."

As the camporee came to a close, many young people expressed their desire to continue living out the lessons they learned during the event. The organizers, led by the General Conference Youth Department, are already planning the next global camporee, which promises to be even bigger and more impactful.

Conclusion: A Foundation for the Future

The International Pathfinder Camporee is more than just an event—it's a movement of young people passionate about serving Christ and making a difference in the world. As the Pathfinders return to their respective countries, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and the commitment to be ambassadors for Christ in their communities. Find out more about upcoming Pathfinder events.