The South Atlantic Conference celebrated its 80th anniversary during the annual Camp Meeting, commemorating eight decades of ministry under the theme, “Faithful: Then, Now, Always.” The theme highlighted God’s faithfulness to His people throughout the Conference’s history while reaffirming its commitment to the future.
The Children’s Ministries Department welcomed between 150 and 200 children each day during its weeklong summer program. The curriculum featured was the Vacation Bible School program, “Cactusville.” Under the direction of Darryl Howard, D.Min., who also serves as the Sabbath School director, the volunteers focused on instilling in the children that God’s love is unconditional.
The youth were engaged in interactive competitions throughout the week. The program emphasized teamwork, discipline, responsibility, integrity, and biblical principles.
The week featured programming designed specifically for youth and young adults. Young adult ministry continued its relaunch with speaker James Doggette Jr., D.L.T., while Timothy O’Leary presented messages for youth during the Friday and Sabbath services. “Young Adult Night” was inserted in the adult pavilion with Taurus Montgomery, Atlanta Berean Church associate pastor.
Club ministries remained active throughout the week, as more than 300 Pathfinders, directors, and coordinators participated in the annual Pathfinder Camporee in preparation for the Southern Union Camporee scheduled for October. Drum corps and drill team workshops focused on developing a unified performance. The week’s activities culminated with the annual Pathfinder parade following Sabbath worship service.
Morning, afternoon, and evening worship services featured messages from current pastors and several guest speakers, including William L. Winston, former South Atlantic Conference president; Calvin Watkins Sr., North American Division vice president; and Calvin B. Rock, D.Min., Ph.D., former General Conference vice president. Thursday evening’s clergy spouses’ night featured Wendy Barkley, D.P.T., as the keynote speaker.
Workshops included gardening, mentoring and health, leadership, public affairs and religious liberty, and conflict resolution.
The Community Services Department provided an opportunity for individuals to receive CERT training, and they expressed appreciation to residents and workers throughout Orangeburg, S.C. The Youth Department partnered with Community Services to get volunteers to assemble 200 “Blessing Bags” containing personal care items: soap, lotion, tissue, candy, hot chocolate, and notepads.
Sabbath afternoon featured three panel discussions centered on the Camp Meeting theme. The discussions were moderated by Austin Humphreys and Jermaine Nelson, Conference pastors.
The “Then” panel reflected on the history and legacy of the Conference. Panelists included Ralph Peay, D.Min.; Calvin B. Rock, D.Min., Ph.D.; William L. Winston; and Calvin B. Preston, current Conference president. Rock and Peay, shared personal memories of the Conference’s early years, and discussed the challenges its pioneers faced in building the organization.
The “Now” panel focused on the current state of the Conference. C. B. Preston was joined by Conference officers, including David A. Smith, executive vice president; Merkita Mosley, treasurer; Everton Ennis, D.Min., general vice president; Allen Baldwin, ministerial vice president; and Kim Gaiter, education vice president. Panelists highlighted the Conference’s emphasis on evangelism, financial stability, and Adventist education.
The “Always” panel gave young adult leaders an opportunity to share their vision for the future of the Conference. Panelists included Carldine Jean-Francois; Michael Taylor, J.D.; DeShawn Preston, Ph.D.; April Smith, Conference women’s ministries director; and Ishmael Wade, pastor of Greenville-Spartanburg, S.C., district. The discussion focused on engaging young adults in the mission of the Conference and identifying ways to strengthen their involvement in ministry and leadership for future generations.
The Office of Education showcased the talents of young people during its anniversary program. Nia Mabry and Japheth Serrano delivered oratorical presentations, while saxophonist Alejandro DeSilva provided a musical selection. Retired educators were recognized for their years of service.
A major emphasis of the anniversary celebration was raising funds to improve facilities for the Pathfinder ministries at River Oaks. Many who attended Camp Meeting purchased the official 80th Anniversary T-shirt, with all proceeds going toward the project. By the close of Camp Meeting, $175,000 was contributed toward campground improvements.
South Atlantic | August 2026
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