By Henry R. Moncur III | ACTU Communication
Excitement is building within the Atlantic Caribbean Union (ATCU) as preparations are finalized for the 2026 Atlantic Caribbean Union Pathfinder Camporee set for July 4–11 in the Cayman Islands under the theme Strong Finish. Over 250 Pathfinders, staff, and leaders from the union’s four fields – Cayman Islands Conference, North Bahamas Conference, South Bahamas Conference, and the Turks and Caicos Islands Conference – are expected to attend, along with a delegation from the Jamaica Union Conference.
After months of planning, the event is entering a crucial phase of logistical preparation with organizers ensuring a memorable blend of spiritual, educational, and recreational experiences. Campgrounds are being readied, accommodations finalized, transportation coordinated, and program details honed as the Cayman Islands Conference prepares to host this significant gathering.
“We are eager to see what God has in store for our young people at this camporee,” said Andrew Burrows, ATCU Youth Ministries director. “The theme, Strong Finish, challenges every Pathfinder to be faithful, committed, and focused on God’s purpose to the very end. Our teams are working hard to make sure every detail creates an unforgettable experience that strengthens each participant’s walk with Christ.”
Campgrounds Taking Shape
Recent weeks have seen intensifying efforts to prepare the campgrounds for the arrival of attendees. Organizers are establishing designated camping areas, setting up utility services, and marking activity zones to accommodate Pathfinders and staff from across the region. Significant attention has been paid to creating an environment that promotes adventure, learning, worship, and fellowship, all while ensuring the safety and comfort of participants.
Inspiring Young People to Finish Strong
Throughout the week, the camporee’s theme, Strong Finish, will be integrated into various activities and spiritual programming. Participants will engage in worship services, devotionals, leadership development sessions, community outreach initiatives, and recreational activities, all designed to encourage perseverance in faith, commitment to Christian service, and the pursuit of excellence in every area of life.
Opening Ceremony to Kick Off the Week
The official opening ceremony is set for Sunday evening, July 5, after delegations have arrived and set up. This festive event will feature a parade of flags from participating territories, cultural presentations, the camporee theme song, and a traditional flag-raising service. Kent Price, ATCU president, will deliver the keynote address and officially open the camporee, setting a spiritual tone for the week ahead.
Samson Drama: A Major Highlight
Among the highly anticipated features will be a nightly dramatic presentation based on the life of Samson. This production will explore themes of strength, choices, consequences, and redemption, offering valuable spiritual lessons that resonate with the camporee’s message of remaining faithful and finishing strong.
Evening programs will mix worship, inspiration, and entertainment, culminating in these dramatic presentations which are expected to garner enthusiastic participation.
Fun and Skill Development Activities
Throughout the camporee, Pathfinders will engage in a range of activities aimed at fostering teamwork, creativity, and practical skills. The schedule includes:
- Sports challenges between participating fields and delegations.
- Honor and craft activities to cultivate Pathfinder skills.
- Exhibition challenges highlighting creativity, innovation, and club achievements.
- Leadership and inspirational seminars.
- Cultural presentations celebrating the diversity of the Atlantic Caribbean Union.
These activities promise spirited competition and camaraderie among clubs.
Service at the Heart of the Experience
A significant emphasis will be placed on community engagement and service with participants participating in a local community service project aimed at making a positive impact in the Cayman Islands. This service component exemplifies the Pathfinder ministry’s commitment to fostering spiritual growth and active service among young people.
Worship and Spiritual Growth
Daily worship experiences are set to be foundational to the camporee, featuring conference devotions, union line calls, and spiritual reflections designed to deepen participants’ relationship with God. Special Sabbath activities on July 11 will include breakout Sabbath School sessions, an investiture service, Bible Connection presentations, divine worship, and a baptismal service. Organizers anticipate that the week’s spiritual emphasis will inspire many young people to make deeper commitments to Christ.
Building Lasting Memories
As anticipation grows and final arrangements are completed, the camporee promises to be a transformative experience for many young participants. With opportunities to forge lifelong friendships, develop new skills, and enhance their faith, attendees can expect to leave with cherished memories.
With hundreds set to converge in the Cayman Islands, organizers are optimistic that the 2026 Pathfinder Camporee will significantly impact every participant. Through worship, service, fellowship, and adventure, participants will be challenged to embrace the camporee’s message and return home determined to finish strong in their commitment to God, their church, and their communities.
“The camporee is more than an event,” Burrows noted. “It’s a chance for our young people to encounter God, discover their gifts, and be inspired to become leaders in their churches and communities. We are excited to see what God will do during this special gathering.”
About ATCU
The ATCU, headquartered in Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas, comprises 29,439 members across four fields: the Cayman Islands Conference, the North Bahamas Conference, the South Bahamas Conference, and the Turks and Caicos Islands Conference. Additionally, Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Jamaica, is co-owned and operated by both ATCU and the Jamaica Union.