More than 2,300 Pathfinders from across the East Zimbabwe Conference (EZC) gathered in Harare at Glen City from 5 to 11 April for a week-long camporee focused on spiritual growth and skills development.

The camporee ran under the theme “Courageous” and drew participants from across the conference territory. Guest of honour Elder Kudakwashe Tagwirei of Sakunda Holdings, challenged the young people to live boldly for God, drawing from the story of King Josiah.

“Josiah became king at the age of eight and led a nation back to God,” he said. “This shows that even at your age, you can make decisions that change your communities.”

He urged Pathfinders to be courageous in doing what is right.

“Do not be brave in doing wrong things,” Tagwirei said. “Be brave, bold, and courageous in doing what is morally right and upright.”

He also called on parents, leaders, and young people to prioritise their relationship with God above material pursuits.

“Chase after God and not earthly riches,” he said. “When you do that, success and blessings will follow.”

The spiritual emphasis of the camporee was reinforced by guest speaker Pastor Reuben Muyundu from Zambia, who delivered evening messages throughout the week. He repeatedly called on the Pathfinders to develop a courageous and unwavering faith. The impact of the messages was evident at the close of the camporee, where 51 young

people were baptised. Beyond the spiritual programme, Pathfinders participated in a range of honours designed to equip them with practical skills to help in life. These skills included robotics, church history, drone technology, star study, the sanctuary, and sign language, among others.

EZC Youth Ministries Director Pastor Kudzanayi Matema said the strong turnout reflected the importance of of the camporee to the church, saying such experiences play a pivotal role in keeping young people in the church.

“We are humbled by the great turnout of Pathfinders,” he said. “Camporees expose young people to opportunities and learning experiences they do not usually get at their local churches.”

“This is important for their growth and helps them remain in the church in the long run,” Matema said.

Camp Chairperson Elder Dembure expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for their support.

“The children had a great time,” he said. “We want to thank the parents for allowing them to come because this contributes to their growth both spiritually and physically.”

Youth Ministries leaders from the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID) and the Zimbabwe East Union Conference (ZEUC) also attended the Sabbath programme, showing their support for the initiative.

Organisers described the camporee as a success, noting its impact in strengthening the faith of young people and preparing them for service.