The Greater Sydney Conference (GSC) Big Camp, held at the Adventist Alpine Village from April 13 to 19, will be remembered as a powerful testimony that when storms come, faith can still lead the way forward.
Just before the event began, a severe storm swept across southern New South Wales during the South New South Wales Big Camp, held at the same site. The storm caused significant damage, forcing the South NSW camp to end early. Marquees and tents that were essential for the upcoming GSC camp were destroyed, leaving the entire event in question. At one point, the message came through clearly that this was it, no more Big Camp. After a 40-year break, this was only the third GSC Big Camp since the event had been revived.
But amid the uncertainty, the GSC leadership chose not to give up. There was a strong sense that we simply needed to try. Trusting in God’s leading, we arrived at the campsite a few days early. What we found was overwhelming. Broken structures, scattered equipment and a space that seemed unready to host such a large gathering. Yet, step by step, with prayer and determination, we began clearing, rebuilding and preparing.
We wondered if people would still come. But they did. Not only did they come, they came in numbers. Families arrived, and most importantly, young people came with expectation and faith. Every division ran, from the youngest children to the youth and adults. Worship, fellowship and community filled the space that only days earlier seemed impossible to use. Lives were touched and lives were changed.
During the powerful testimony time, two young people stood and shared with raw honesty: “I was waiting for this camp just so I can survive.” Their words moved everyone present and highlighted the deep spiritual hunger among our young people.
This experience became more than just a camp. It became a message. These moments are vital for the spiritual journey of our young people and for the unity of the entire Conference. In a world that can feel overwhelming and isolating, Big Camp provided a lifeline: a place where faith was renewed, burdens were shared and hearts were reconnected with God and with each other. Storms will come and go, but the movement of God and His church must continue. As it is written, “Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9). And again: “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God goes with you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
Many shared that this was one of the best camps they had ever experienced. Not because everything was perfect, but because God’s presence was so clearly felt through the challenges.
In many ways, this reflects our own spiritual journey. We all face storms. They can either stop us or awaken us. They can lead us to fear or they can draw us closer to God. Big Camp reminded us that even in the middle of the storm, we can choose to keep moving forward in faith.
May we all be encouraged not to stop when difficult times come, but to walk with God through every storm, trusting that He is leading us forward.
