Daniel Claudet
More than 60 teens from across Gulf States Conference gathered at Camp Alamisco in Dadeville, Ala., for Epic Encounter, November 7-9, 2025, a weekend filled with worship, fellowship, and powerful spiritual encounters.
The serene lakefront camp became a sacred space as teens unplugged from their everyday lives to engage in moments of prayer, reflection, and revival. From spirited worship sessions to late-night campfire conversations, each part of the program was designed to deepen faith and foster lasting friendships.
“This weekend reminded us that God still moves mightily in the hearts of our youth,” said Michel Rodriguez, Gulf States Conference youth director. “Our young people are hungry for a real connection with Jesus, and this weekend gave them a safe place to experience Him authentically.”
The weekend featured a series of worship where participants explored the character and calling of God through music, messages, and small group discussions. The Friday night Afterglow and campfire s’mores created a warm, inviting atmosphere, setting the tone for Sabbath’s spiritual focus and Saturday evening’s vibrant games, and the daring midnight polar plunge.
A Passionate Young Messenger
The keynote speaker, Jonathan Navarro, a sophomore theology major at Southern Adventist University, captivated hearts with his authenticity and zeal. Hailing from southern California, Navarro brought his personal testimony of transformation, shaped through years of ministry in literature evangelism, homeless outreach, and Bible work across the west coast and Hawaii.
“My prayer is that when people see me, they don’t really see me, but Jesus,” Navarro shared during one of the sessions. “The most epic encounter any of us can ever have is the one where we realize how much God loves us.”
Voices That Uplift
Engage Worship, a ministry team from Southern Adventist University, returned once again to lead praise and worship. Known for their heartfelt musical ministry, Engage has become a beloved staple at Epic Encounter.
Personal Impact
For Gregorio Flores Jr., who traveled from Hattiesburg, Miss., shared his appreciation for the setting and the experience. “I love Camp Alamisco, and Epic Encounter was an amazing event, filled with worship, laughter, and moments where you could really feel God’s presence,” he said.
As the weekend concluded, youth and leaders alike left with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared desire to live boldly for Christ. The echoes of worship, the warmth of community, and the quiet moments of prayer around the campfire lingered in their hearts, a testament to the truth that when young people seek Him, God shows up in epic ways.
Gulf States | January 2026
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