NEMM-Youth Ministries Department Spearheaded Summer Youth Camp 2011

The Youth Ministries Department of Northeastern Mindanao Mission under the directorship of Pastor Max Dante B. Obbus conducted a mission-wide summer youth camp on May 8-14, 2011 at Mt. Olive Laymen’s Academy, Mt. Olive, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur with the theme “Alone With God.”

On the opening night, Pastor Henry Sucuaje, District Pastor of Olive District gave an inspirational message. Barangay Captain Romel Montecalvo of Barangay Olive welcomed all the staff, delegates, and parents on behalf of the local government. Pastor Solomon V. Mongaya, NEMM president, delivered a very timely and uplifting message during the Divine Worship. Sir Romel Subigca, school principal of Northeastern Mindanao Academy, offered the commitment message and prayer during the closing program.

The said event aimed to develop future church leaders through different Pathfindering activities and programs. The participants were divided into different categories from the Adventurer Club, Pathfinder Club, Master Guide, Pathfinder Leadership Award (PLA), and Advanced Pathfinder Leadership Award (APLA). Furthermore, various classes and honors were conducted in the morning to cater the need of the campers for their passport completion.

Around 200 youth from Caraga Region participated in this program. These young people underwent rigid training and various activities all throughout the week. On the first day, they did “getting-to-know-you” games and activities; and on the following day, they had camp skills and drills. In the middle of the week, the participants enjoyed nature’s beauty when they had a track and trail. They went hiking, spelunking and waterfalls exploring. On Thursday (May 12), the attendees had an obstacle race. The last day was spent doing a community service around the school and the neighborhood. Aside from physical and social enrichments, the campers were spiritually strengthened and revived through morning worship and devotionals, meditation and counselor’s time, and evening devotionals. At night, there were different presentations by district such as songs and yells, unique talent, group singing – religious, musical instrument playing, and religious drama.

Regardless of the unexpected untoward incidents, the administrative officers, camp staff, parents and participants felt physically, socially and spiritually rejuvenated and blessed. Everybody believed that we were not alone, because God was with us.