OHIO—Over the long Labor Day weekend, around 260 Philadelphia Church of God members from eight different states gathered for a four-day family campout at Camp Palmer in Fayette, Ohio. This annual campout is a much-anticipated event in the northeast region that builds God’s Family and inspires unity.
Members began arriving Friday afternoon. Some rented cabins and a few “glamped” in campers, while others opted for a more traditional experience: tents. A chili potluck dinner was followed by enthusiastic participation at the campfire Bible Hymnal sing-along, where members joined voices in praising God. Overnight rain miraculously cooled the hot weather, creating pleasant camping conditions.
On Saturday, a hearty brunch of eggs, turkey bacon, bagels and various fruits was followed by Sabbath services in the open-air hall. A sermonette by Preaching Elder Eric Burns exhorted members to take a stronger stance against sin, tying in with Regional Director Brian Davis’s sermon about developing spiritual war-like thinking to overcome Satan. After services, lively fellowship echoed throughout the hall and campground. While the adults conversed, the young children attended a Bible story time. After this, they were tested on their physical hand-eye coordination as they created various Bible story crafts with Preaching Elder David Weeks and his wife, Chelsea. Across campus, the teens were also being challenged by a multitude of Bible questions led by Preaching Elder David Miller. Following dinner and an ice cream social, everyone was treated to a family entertainment night. Acts included the guitar, fiddle, piano, singing and various skits.
First-time Camp Palmer attendee Charity Nutting said that one highlight of the evening, and perhaps the entire camp, was watching Mr. Davis and Mr. Burns co-emcee the evening. “Their costumes and humor were really enjoyable,” she said.
On Sunday, teens, singles, marrieds and adventurous seniors split into six teams and faced off over Chicago Ball, volleyball and ultimate frisbee. The evening was illuminated by little red cones and a symphony of laughter and squeals as children and adults ran across opposing lines during a game of Capture the Flag. The night was concluded with s’mores, a campfire and a singalong.
As members packed up and left Monday morning, some commented that this year’s campout was the best they have attended. Many described it as a “mini-Feast,” propelling the brethren into the Fall Holy Days.
Mr. Davis said, “This campout is a wonder blessing to unify the region by gathering about a quarter of the northeast brethren together every year for three or four days. I personally believe the benefits are invaluable as far a strengthening the unity of God’s Family and sharpening our focus going into the Fall Holy Days.” Plans are already underway for next year’s Camp Palmer.