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GHANA - Over 100 Baptisms Mark the Close of West African Division Pathfinder Camporee

Posted on janv. 04 2024

GHANA - Over 100 Baptisms Mark the Close of West African Division Pathfinder Camporee
By Solace Asafo and Abraham Bakari

[Photo: Baptism Ceremony]
Accra, Ghana — The WAD Dream Pathfinder Camporee 2023, held at the Valley View University campus in Accra, culminated in a spiritually uplifting Sabbath on December 30, 2023, where over twelve thousand attendees gathered in a serene natural setting. The event was marked by a significant spiritual milestone: the baptism of more than a hundred participants who committed their lives to Jesus.
The final day of the Camporee was graced with sunny skies, symbolizing a bright future ahead. Attendees found solace under the shade of trees, accompanied by the melodious tunes of a youth orchestra playing African rhythms.
A highlight of the day was the powerful sermon delivered by the General Conference Youth Ministries Director, Busi Khumalo. He eloquently spoke about the unique yet unified global nature of the Pathfinder ministry, drawing inspiration from the Biblical chapters of Genesis 46 to 48. He explored the diverse practices within the ministry, emphasizing its international reach and its role in preparing individuals for Heaven, our ultimate destination.

[Photo: General Conference Youth Ministries Director, Pastor Busi Khumalo]

Drawing parallels to Joseph's life and his family's journey to Egypt, Khumalo reminded the attendees that, like Egypt in Genesis, Earth is not our final home. He spoke of the transient nature of earthly institutions, including the Bible and Pathfinder clubs, and their role in preparing us for Heaven.
The story of Jacob blessing Manasseh and Ephraim served as a poignant metaphor, illustrating God's ability to invert the status quo and fulfill His plan in unexpected ways. The attendees were encouraged to appreciate their journey with God, echoing Joseph's experience of transformation from a nobody to a somebody under divine guidance.

[Photo: Pastor Alfred Kwasi Asiem]

[Photo: Pastor Busi Khumalo]

Pastor Alfred Asiem, speaking on the occasion, highlighted a notable achievement of the camporee: the baptism of over a hundred Pathfinders. He expressed joy at having the privilege of baptizing his own daughter during the event. This marked a historic first for the camporee, reflecting the strong focus on mission and spiritual growth in the West African Division.

[Photo: Pastor Alfred Asiem and his daughter]

Pastor Khumalo commended the Youth leaders in the WAD for their mission-focused approach, noting that the activities and presentations at the camporee emphasized the commitment of the young people in the division to the church's mission.
Attendees shared their positive experiences, with John from Liberia describing the camporee as a blend of fun activities, new friendships, and quality time with God.
Looking forward, the WAD youth ministries are already planning the Panafrican Youth Congress at Babcock University, Nigeria, in December 2024, which is expected to be a gathering of the entire African continent. For the Pathfinders, the next camporee is scheduled for 2027 at Adeleke University in Nigeria.
The event concluded with participants departing the campus on Sunday, December 31, 2023, carrying with them the memories and spiritual lessons of this enriching experience.