Columbia Union News

Prentice Park Pathfinder Braise Ellis packs up her tent.

Story by V. Michelle Bernard

With another potential strong storm forecasted to come through Gillette, Wy., tomorrow, International Camporee leaders had to make the hard logistical decision to cancel the Sabbath morning and Saturday evening programs previously scheduled to conclude the event. “Every effort is being made to keep Pathfinders safe during the next few days,” say event leaders.

Sherilyn O'Ffill (right), Potomac Conference associate youth director, baptizes a Columbia Union Pathfinder.

Story by Ricardo Bacchus / Reporting by V. Michelle Bernard

Baptism, a special occasion in which candidates are celebrated for publicly giving their lives to God, can be intimidating for some; being the center of attention isn’t everyone’s forte.

Now picture getting baptized in front of 60,000-plus Pathfinders, staff and family members.

Statement from the International Pathfinder Camporee Leadership team:

Because the safety of all those gathered at the International Pathfinder Camporee is of utmost importance, the camporee leadership, in collaboration with North American Division union, division and international leadership, has reluctantly decided to finish the evening main stage nighttime program one day early, on Friday, August 9.

Severe thunderstorms, strong winds and hail are predicted for Sabbath late afternoon and evening. Every effort is being made to keep Pathfinders safe during the next few days.

Allegheny East Conference's Metropolitan Metrolites Drum Corps prepare to showcase their talents.

Story by Ricardo Bacchus

On a black top, roughly 100 feet by 100 feet, 32 Columbia Union Conference drill and drum corps teams lined up on the International Pathfinder camporee campgrounds in Gillette, Wy. A packed audience, comprised of friends, family members, fellow club and church members, waited in anticipation, not wanting to miss a beat or step.

But the onlooking crowd would have to wait a few minutes longer.