Approximately 55,000 Pathfinders worldwide, including over 900 from Northern, gathered in Gillette, Wyoming, from August 6 to 11. With residents and pathfinders combined, it became the largest city in Wyoming by population for a week!
Opening day started with a bang—and rain, hail, and wind. Campers rushed into meeting halls for shelter and safety while lakes as deep as ten inches formed and flooded many tents, drenching sleeping bags and luggage. In contrast to the weather outside, thousands of joyful campers praising God could be heard singing from the impromptu indoor havens, defying the storm’s ferocity.
Eddie Heinrich, NCC Youth Director, stated, “What is a camporee without some weather and challenges? I’m sure the enemy loves to provoke commotion when our worldwide clubs gather to praise God for a week! The hand of God was very evident leading up to and during the Camporee.”
As the days passed, eager youth continued to earn honors, march, and exchange pins. One Northern camper mentioned that his favorite activity was Dutch Oven cooking over an open fire. Another popular activity was gold panning, led by NCC area coordinators with help from Roseville Church member Joe Lee, who developed the honor.
Amidst the excitement of new friendships, activities, and challenges, many dedicated their lives to God through baptism, including 14 from Northern. There was an extra celebration for Grant Gulke from the Napa Valley club, who asked for baptism after being a Pathfinder for 30 years.
Janeen Little, the associate pastor of the Lodi Fairmont church, stated, “It was incredible to see kids meet Jesus and commit to Him. In the midst of challenges, they were resilient and insistent on having fun! God is still on the move, and this generation is following Him to the promised land!
Featured in Northern Lights, August 15, 2024
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