The annual Memorial Day cleanup on the campground began under overcast skies and a light morning drizzle, casting a familiar tone over the event that has often opened with cool, damp weather. However, the clouds and drizzle didn’t dampen the spirits of the many volunteers who arrived early, eager to prepare the grounds for the upcoming annual camp meeting! Thankfully, by midday, the clouds lifted, and the sun emerged in time for the Memorial Day band performance and the well-earned lunch.

The gates opened shortly before 8:00 a.m., and volunteers steadily poured in. Many had been assigned to teams ahead of time, while others checked in at the entrance and were directed to areas where they could be most helpful. From the very start, the campground buzzed with activity as teams took on a wide variety of projects.

Goals for the day included cleaning over two hundred cabins, scrubbing kitchenettes, setting up the prayer room and tabernacle platform, and laying fresh mulch in the flowerbeds. Volunteers also tackled specific maintenance tasks such as cleaning the gutters along the front of the tabernacle, mopping the tabernacle floor, and setting up chairs in the Activity Center.

As part of the cabin cleanup, teams took inventory of each unit and noted any maintenance issues. Leaking roofs, holes in walls, and broken screens were all noted, and then passed on to the talented team of repairmen. With much willing help, the cabin cleaning was done in record time.

By noon, the campground showed visible signs of transformation. The Memorial Day band opened with the national anthem, and then Sola Adesope greeted everyone and asked veteran Rich Trotter to lead in prayer. As the music continued—supported enthusiastically by several young guest conductors alongside Gary Riler—volunteers lined up for a delicious lunch of burgers and salads, with a layered lemon curd concoction for dessert.

With just a few weeks until guests from around the world arrive in Portland, preparations are well underway. Thanks to the hard work and cheerful dedication of the volunteers, the campground is nearly ready to welcome all who come seeking fellowship, revival, and a blessed time together.