The South Atlantic Conference Camp Meeting, held at River Oaks Campground in Orangeburg, SC, was a resounding success, drawing a total crowd 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 7:00 AM, 12 noon, and 7:00 PM, offering attendees ample opportunities for worship and reflection. The services were enhanced by the new 11 feet by 26 feet video wall. The event’s featured speakers were Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min. president of the Southwest Region Conference, and G. Alexander Bryant, D.Min. president of the North American Division. Their powerful messages along with 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 ladies.
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, conference 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 versus pastors basketball game, where the campers claimed victory once again. There was also a baptism class as well as 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 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 these 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, Bible stories, and 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.
A new feature was added to the activities this year. A day camp hosted more than 15 children from the community.
The camp meeting also took time to honor retirees for their dedicated service. William L. Winston, South Atlantic Conference President Emeritus, was celebrated for his 36 years of service. Ezra Mendinghall and Gregg Robinzine were also recognized for their 46 and 32 years of service, respectively.
The final service, a solemn ordination ceremony, featured Ivan Williams, D.Min., Ministerial Director for the North American Division, who delivered an uplifting message. Five ordinands were welcomed into the Gospel ministry. The newly ordained ministers—Howard Brown, Fredy Canales, Demar Felix Fearon, D.Min., Max Isai Gomez Vasquez, and Dr. John R. Sconiers, II, D.Min.—were celebrated for their commitment to serving their communities and spreading the word of God.
The 2024 South Atlantic Conference Camp Meeting was a testament to the power of faith, community, and service. As the campers left the campground, they carried a deeper sense of purpose, ready to unleash their power in their respective communities.
View the 2024 Campmeeting Gallery here
