This year’s Western Europe camp meeting was themed “Year of Jubilee” (Leviticus 25:10) to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Gospel work in the United Kingdom (UK). About 700 people, representing eight countries, gathered at the Cefn Lea Park conference center for the event, which took place July 25 to August 2. This milestone year was a time to look back with gratitude at five decades of God’s faithfulness while seeking Him afresh for the future.

On the opening Sunday, the junior orchestra began the service with “Who Can Satisfy My Soul?” Then the choir sang “We Cannot Be Silent.” The Scripture reading was taken from Leviticus 25:10-13, where Moses relayed the instructions for the Year of Jubilee to the Israelites. For the message, Superintendent General Olusola Adesope preached on “Jubilee in Christ,” taking his text from Luke 4:18-19. He reminded the congregation that true freedom can only be found in Christ.  

Throughout the week, rich Bible teachings covered important doctrines and truths for practical Christian living. These included “The Three Christian Experiences,” “Restitution and Forgiveness,” “Sound Doctrine,” “Eternal Heaven and Hell,” and “Christian Unity.” Each teaching provided the opportunity to examine oneself in the light of Scripture and gain a deeper understanding of the Word of God. During the teachings, all were encouraged by testimonies, including that of a couple whose prayers for a baby had been answered after fifteen years. 

During the Thursday morning teaching, the mantle of leadership for Western Europe passed from Mark Mfandarahwa to Ola Balogun. Brother Sola gave an address of appreciation, and then the Board ordained Brother Ola in accordance with Scripture by the laying on of hands. He then addressed the congregation, confirming his pledge to uphold holiness and lead the church forward as inspired by God.

One afternoon was set aside to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the UK work, and the congregation was blessed to have the founder, Victor Okusanya, in attendance. A video chronicled the history, which began when Brother Victor moved his family from Nigeria to England so he could study music at Goldsmiths University in London. He contacted other Apostolic Faith members living nearby and invited them to meet. In April of 1976, about eight gathered in his sister’s home, and afterward decided to continue the fellowship. From that humble beginning in a sitting room, more than thirty branches exist today. The presentation was a powerful reminder of what God can do through faith, obedience, and perseverance.

The celebration continued with a tour of the Faith Museum exhibit where visitors could see memorabilia connecting them to a rich spiritual heritage. A banquet followed, and then a highlight of the day was the 50th Anniversary Concert. Over 150 choir members from across Western Europe presented a time of praise through both classical and contemporary music, including selections composed by Brother Victor. During the concert, awards were given for long standing service in the choir ministry. It was a touching and inspiring time for all.

On Saturday morning, prior to the ordinance service, some business items were addressed. Brother Sola announced the retirement of LeRoy Tonning after thirty-five years as the Scandinavia District Superintendent. He expressed appreciation for the faithful service of Brother LeRoy and his wife, Vigis. He also announced that Seun Ogunleye would step aside as the pastor at Stavanger, Norway, to help in other areas. He thanked Brother Seun and his wife, Tolu, for their commitment to the Gospel work as well. Keijo Kinnari was named to fill both positions and was ordained by the laying on of hands as the platform ministers gathered around him to pray.

In the afternoon, a water baptismal service was held for twenty-two new converts. In the evening, a camp meeting first took place—an outdoor sing-along. It provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and is sure to become a tradition. 

As the camp meeting concluded, campers departed with grateful hearts, reminded of how God began the work, sustained it for five decades, and remains faithful today.