More than 3500 people attended Watson Park in Dakabin (Qld) for the second South Queensland Conference (SQC) Big Camp since COVID-19 from September 15 to 23. This year marked the 125th anniversary of the first Australian camp meeting held in the Queensland suburb of Woolloongabba in October 1898.
The theme for this year’s camp was “Connect” and campers had the opportunity to connect through various activities and workshops. These included early morning fitness sessions, First Nation weaving circles led by ATSIM (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries) and seminars on relationships, parenting, leadership and growing your tribe.
The attendees filled the tents with singing, worship, prayer and diving into God’s word each night. Approximately 2500 devices from all over the world joined the meetings online each night.
Dr Joseph Kidder, professor of pastoral theology and discipleship at Andrews University (USA), was the main speaker in the Big Tent. During the camp meeting, he shared stories of his conversion journey, reminding everyone of the transformative power of faith. Dr Kidder said, “It [was] a privilege to be at this camp meeting this year to celebrate the 125th anniversary with you all.”
SQC president Pastor Brett Townend said, “From my experience of Camp Meetings, we come for one reason: to connect. We connect in two ways: upward to God and outwards to each other. Both are important for the Christian life.”
