Anticipation for the upcoming Midwest camp meeting could be seen on the faces of those checking into Pinecrest Camp on Tuesday evening, some for the first time. As the camp meeting commenced, over two hundred people from the Midwest, Canada, the West Coast, and other locations, could be seen praying together, eating together, and encouraging one another. In addition to the wonderful buffet meals prepared by the Pinecrest staff, meetings were held in the chapel three times a day to receive “spiritual food” from the Lord. In the afternoons, many gathered at the lake and indoor swimming pool to participate in or observe the water activities, including paddleboats, canoes, swimming, and the ever-popular aqua launch. The Lord even provided beautiful weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity, which was enjoyed by all.

The musicians from various branch churches did a splendid job presenting inspiring special music, including a nice-size orchestra and combined choir. On Sunday night, several musicians put together a bluegrass-style song service, which the congregation thoroughly enjoyed. The testimonies were also an encouragement and inspiration as many stood to their feet to tell what the Lord has done for them. Edwin Reid from Fredericton, New Brunswick, thanked everyone for their prayers during the past year as he has endured some serious health issues. He missed being at Midwest camp last year, and he is thankful that the Lord undertook for him so he could come this year. On Friday morning, a call was placed to Ruth Harshner, who lives near Kansas City, Missouri. She attended Midwest camp for many years until her health declined, and she was always eager to testify. Via speakerphone, she once again gave her testimony, telling how the Lord saved her when she lived in very difficult circumstances with an alcoholic husband, and she has enjoyed serving the Lord these many years.

The opening song service included “We Came Here Expecting God to Move” and “Showers of Blessings,” and that is what the congregation was expecting during this camp meeting. The Bible teachings and sermons were all an incentive to draw closer to the Lord. On Wednesday morning, Reverend Bob Downey gave a teaching on the doctrine of Restitution. A young man later testified that this teaching prompted him to make a phone call and make a restitution that the Lord had laid on his heart. During the young people’s service on Wednesday afternoon, Joseph Lamidi preached about denying self and following God. Wednesday night, Reverend Darrel Lee used Matthew 11:7-9 for his text, and he asked the question, “What did you come to seek at Midwest camp?” The congregation was challenged as he related his own experience of seeking for the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

On Thursday morning, Reverend John Jordan used Isaiah 12:3 as the text for his teaching on “Spiritual Water.” He said that God is waiting to satisfy a soul that is thirsting for more of Him. Jeff Downey used the story of Naaman the leper during his sermon on Thursday afternoon. He encouraged the young people to quit thinking about how it should be done, and just do it God’s way. Thursday night, Reverend Mark Worthington preached on “The Fear of God.”

Reverend Kent Thompson gave the teaching on Friday morning about “Knowing and Doing God’s Will.” God has a plan for everyone’s life, and it is important to obey and trust in the Lord. Ritchie Ho used Isaiah 28:10 to remind the young people that it doesn’t matter how many camp meetings they have been to—they may have heard all the lines and precepts, but are they ready to face the challenges the world has to offer? They need the experiences of salvation, sanctification, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit to meet these challenges. Reverend Marjorie Reid’s theme for her sermon on Friday night was “There is Nothing Too Hard for God.”

There was a sweet spirit as people gathered around the swimming pool on Saturday morning for a water baptismal service. An ensemble of stringed instruments and a harmonica played before and during the service. Olubunmi Omitoyin gave the message before ten candidates were baptized in water. Saturday evening, Reverend Bob Bishop preached on “Jesus is Passing This Way.”

The theme for Reverend Darrel Lee’s sermon on Sunday morning was “Ask and Ye Shall Receive.” Reverend Randy Baltzell preached on Sunday afternoon about “Having a Transaction with God,” and Reverend Byron Parker’s theme for the closing sermon was “Be Thankful.”

In addition to the inspiring services, the Spirit of the Lord came down and blessed the altar services. Many tarried at the altars and received answers to prayer. Several told about how the Lord had drawn them nearer to Him during this camp meeting. On Monday morning, there was a flurry of activity and good-byes as those who attended prepared to return to their various locations, excited that they had been part of this marvelous camp meeting.