Under the golden hues of a setting sun, the shores of Philippine Advent College in Barangay Talinga bore witness to something far greater than just a gathering—it was a divine movement, a convergence of souls eager to embrace faith and fellowship. Across the vast campsite, voices echoed with songs of praise, laughter rang through the trees, and the shimmering sands carried the footprints of 290 participants, each called to deepen their journey with Christ.
From the outset, the camp was more than just an event. It was a sacred ground where seven districts united under one mission: to share the hope and salvation found in Jesus. Campers from SalGod, Salug Central, Leon B. Postego, Sindangan Mega Church, SiaSin, MaJda, and Liloy arrived as individuals but soon realized they were part of something much larger—a family bound by faith.
The Trust Walk was a powerful testament to surrender and reliance on God’s direction. Blindfolded campers placed their trust entirely in their unit captains, following only voice-guided instructions, symbolizing believers walking by faith even when life’s path remains unseen. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.” Each hesitant step forward mirrored their spiritual journey—a faith refined not by sight, but by trust.
Meanwhile, the intensity of Rescuelympics awakened their sense of service and sacrifice. Campers simulated rescue operations, demonstrating teamwork, empathy, and resilience. Applying the Archimedes Principle, they learned to work smarter rather than harder, using buoyancy to lighten the weight of their “patients.” In this simple principle lay a profound truth—just as water lifts burdens, Jesus lifts humanity from sin, offering salvation through His sacrifice. As Matthew 25:40 declares, “Whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Throughout the week, the presence of Christ resonated in every shared testimony, every act of kindness, and every moment of reflection. Counselors and staff, unwavering in their dedication, poured their hearts into the campers, not relying on their own strength, but on the power of the Holy Spirit to convict and transform.
And then came the defining moment—the baptism of 13 souls, stepping forward in unwavering commitment to follow Christ. These weren’t just numbers but lives eternally changed. The waters that held the reflection of the sky now became the threshold to new beginnings, marking their public declaration of faith. As the final hymn rang through the evening air, the camp stood as a beacon of hope, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who came seeking something greater than themselves.
The Zone 4 Friendship Camp was not just a retreat—it was a revival. A movement rooted in faith, strengthened by fellowship, and ignited by the unwavering mission to reach souls for Christ. And as the participants departed, they carried with them a fire that would never dim—a passion to continue the journey, to share His love, and to shine His light wherever they go.
Writer
Zone 2 Youth
