Scroll down to view our Photo Gallery!

Every five years, the International Pathfinder Camporee takes place, an event where thousands of Pathfinder groups from all over the world gather together. It is a time when Pathfinders and their leaders can fellowship together, work on AY Honors, and most importantly, draw closer to Jesus Christ.  This year's event was held in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. With hundreds of tents erected over a large field, over 36,000 people attended for nearly a week. During the event, the vast population made Oshkosh one of the largest "cities" in the state.

  There is always something to do at the Camporee.  Several Pathfinders use this week to learn new, exciting things and earn different types of AY Honors. Many different entities set up booths and displays that those in attendance could see and participate in.  For example, one Union brought an obstacle course that several of the young people were able to take part in.  Another display featured airplanes from Andrews University's Mission Aviation program.  All week long, hundreds of Pathfinders and their leaders made their way to various exhibitions, including the Native American Village, an exhibit depicting the history and culture of Native American tribes. 

At the Native American Village Pathfinders were able to play Stick Ball (a game played by many Native American Tribes), saw dwellings used by different tribes, and watched several different tribal dances.  They were able to see how the tribes lived and the importance of spiritual things to the Native people. Fred Rogers, Director of Native Ministries for the Southern Union, greeted many of the young people as they came into the village.  For many of the youth, it was the first time they had seen anything like it.  Many especially enjoyed the table of crafts that displayed the artwork of many different tribes.  Throughout the exhibit, there were signs posted explaining the history and importance that the Native People contributed to American culture.

                In addition to the Village, Native American Ministries personnel worked in the Prayer Tents ran by the Lake Union.  In addition to taking prayer requests and praying with all those who came by, the pastors and other workers helped prepare and secure permission for the young people to be baptized.  On Sabbath afternoon, more than 500 young people were baptized in two large pools located on the side of the main stage.  Of those baptized, there were as many as 50 that were of Native descent. 

Many of the Pathfinders and staff left the “Courage to Stand” Camporee with a renewed dedication to Jesus Christ as they look forward to the “Forever Faithful” Camporee in 2014, whether it is held again at Oshkosh or in Heaven.