Oh, we are the Pathfinders strong, the servants of God are we.
Believe the Promise 2024 was an unforgettable experience for over 66,000 Pathfinders from around the world!
During the second week of August, these enthusiastic Pathfinders gathered together for the camporee, an event that occurs every five years. Our AIA PR Vice President, Sabrina Collins, got the inside scoop on how camporee was going while also working toward her Master Guide certification. She had the unique opportunity to connect with fellow Pathfinders from diverse locations, including South Korea, Mexico, Canada, and beyond. This global gathering fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among the participants.
The Pathfinders engaged in a wide array of activities, which included earning honors, swimming, hiking, community service, pin trading, and so much more. Each activity was designed not only to be fun but also to promote teamwork, leadership, and spiritual growth. Sabrina had the chance to meet representatives from various colleges and universities within the North American Division (NAD) that are affiliated with AIA, further expanding her network and understanding of the Pathfinder movement.
This year’s biblical focus revolved around the powerful stories of Moses and Miriam, highlighting their faith in God's promises and His divine plan for the Israelites. Each evening, the drama department captivated audiences with reenactments of these biblical narratives, bringing the stories to life and reinforcing the theme of trust in God's guidance.
However, God had other plans for His Pathfinders during this camporee. A severe storm was forecasted, predicting winds of up to 80 mph for Saturday afternoon and evening. In light of this weather alert, attendees were advised to leave Gillette early. Unfortunately, this meant that the highly anticipated investitures and baptisms could not take place as planned.
Despite the unexpected weather challenges, the Pathfinders remained resilient and had an amazing time. The camaraderie and spirit of joy among the participants shone brightly, with many collecting incredible pins to trade, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm. The experience was not only about individual activities but also about the connections made and the memories shared.
As the camporee came to a close, the Pathfinders returned home with hearts full of inspiration and renewed faith, ready to share their experiences and the lessons learned with their local clubs and communities. The spirit of "Believe the Promise" resonated deeply within each participant, reminding them of the strength found in faith and fellowship. This camporee served as a testament to the enduring power of belief and the vibrant community that exists within the Pathfinder family.
Hope to see you all at the next international camporee in 2029, Stand Strong with Elijah!
AIA PRVP, Sabrina Collins
Camporee Stage view with AIA PR Vice President, Sabrina Collins, August 10, 2024
