Adventist members from Omak, Wash., to Hermiston, Ore., and all parts in between gathered in Pasco, Wash., on Jan. 10, 2015, for the Upper Columbia Conference Hispanic Camp Meeting.
Traditionally held in early summer, this annual and festive gathering moved to January this year to accommodate the upcoming Adventist church business meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in July. In spite of the chilly weather outside, smiling Pathfinders greeted and cheered all who attended.
The Pathfinders were a new addition to camp meeting this year. Over the past several years, four new Hispanic Pathfinder clubs were organized in Upper Columbia Conference, including one last year. The kids proudly greeted guests and marched into the sanctuary at the beginning of the church service. They confidently took the microphone and shared what made Pathfinders meaningful to them.
As is always the case, powerful preaching accompanied the music and fellowship. This year, Hispanic camp meeting featured four main speakers: José Cortez Jr. from the North American Division, Allan Machado from Florida Conference, José Rojas of Movementum and Eliseo Lozano from Changing People's Lives Ministries.
Members were deeply blessed as the speakers touched on the four key areas of this year’s theme, "Gifted to serve, share, heal and disciple." The four speakers alternated between the adult and youth meetings, sharing age-appropriate messages that inspired and encouraged young and old alike.
Not to be left out, the children enjoyed an amazing set of programs that transported them back to ancient Rome, complete with visits from the apostle Paul. In addition to the Bible stories, children participated in Roman games, crafts and snacks. They eagerly rotated from room to room to immerse themselves in life as an early Christian.
During the event, pastors took the opportunity to cast a vision for the next five years. The vision, called Multi-G 20/20, challenges members to plant four new churches and start 40 new groups with at least 400 members before the year 2020.
The camp meeting dates may have been changed this year, but the change didn't appear to affect attendance. Nearly 2,000 people packed the Pasco venue. Walter Pintos, Upper Columbia Conference Hispanic ministries coordinator, says, “Plans are already underway for next year. With our attendance numbers continuing to grow, we’ve already made arrangements for next year.” Next year a larger facility with even more capacity for the multigenerational activities is booked in Kennewick, Wash.
José Rojas shared personal stories of sharing as he encouraged listeners to do the same with love.
José Rojas spoke to young adults, encouraging them to share Christ from their own experience.
The young adult music team leads out in an inspiring time of worship.
Felipe Garibo shares his musical talents throughout the day.
Eliseo Lozano inspires listeners with stories of gospel efforts in communist countries.
Ramon Canals, North Pacific Union Conference Hispanic ministries coordinator, shares his thoughts with the camp meeting audience.
Gerizin de Peña leads the worship and praise times throughout the day.
Pathfinders participate in the church service.
Pathfinders salute during the law and pledge.
José Rojas takes a turn as one of four main speakers.
José Rojas takes a turn as one of four main speakers.
Allan Machado, Florida Conference, shares from the Word.
Allan Machado, Florida Conference, shares his message with the audience.
The worship team shares praises to the Lord.
The worship team lifts hearts to heaven.
Roman soldiers shares stories of the apostle Paul with children attending camp meeting.
Children are transported back to the time of the early church.
José Cortes Jr. from North American Division speaks to a crowd of nearly 2,000 people.
José Cortes Jr. from North American Division speaks to a crowd of nearly 2,000 people.
Claudio Diaz and a young Pathfinder show their positive attitude for Jesus.
