We had the privilege of celebrating the camp meeting for the tenth time (August 15-20, 2025) together with many brothers and sisters from different congregations in Germany. During these days it became clear that God Himself had provided the motto for this gathering: “Teach me your way, O Lord” (Psalm 86:11). Everyone was able to sense God personally speaking to them through sermons, prayers, songs, testimonies, and many personal conversations. For many, it was a time-out from routine daily life, a source of spiritual direction, and at the same time, a wellspring of strength for practical living with God. It was a particularly blessed experience of genuine spiritual unity among the children of God.
God sent forth His Word through various brothers, and we clearly felt that He had something to say to each of us. God not only wants us to pray the motto with the psalmist, David—He wants to personally guide us and His church into the future. In this way, He strengthened our trust in His divine promises. Many returned home with the decision to follow Jesus “bearing all consequences,” to sit more often at His feet like Mary, and to consciously place their daily lives under the leading of the Holy Spirit. The word of scripture was not only explained but also applied in practical guidance for the way.
The many prayers, both public and private, had a powerful influence on these days. Already the opening service, held as an hour of worship and praise, directed us toward this focus: We are in the presence of God, and we should expect His powerful speaking and working. Because many brothers and sisters participated in public prayer, we found ourselves in the presence of God in every service. Livestreams are valuable when no other option is possible, but nothing can replace the immediate presence of God in the assembly of the saints, when the Word and prayer interweave.
The second very special element was the personal fellowship. Because we were together for several days, many deep conversations could be had. Time and again we realized: our brothers and sisters face similar struggles, see the same needs, and have experienced God’s leading in comparable ways. Out of these conversations new prayer requests were born. Even if we had not known each other before, we got to know the brothers and sisters by name and through their shared experiences. This created familiarity, and everyone experienced how mutual encouragement is a strong source of strength.
We were privileged to witness that God truly leads when we give Him control. He ensured that the sermons (without prior coordination) built on each other and that the shaping of the days was very diverse. Many brothers and sisters allowed themselves to be used by God in various tasks, so that He could (from a human perspective) spontaneously shape the content of the gatherings. The organizational framework was pleasant, yet deliberately remained in the background: a relaxed, family-like atmosphere where our physical needs were well taken care of. Because everyone stayed and dined in the same place, connections and encounters were made easier; the beautiful landscape was ideal for walks, and there were simple opportunities for the children and youth to offset all the times of sitting during the services.
We were left with many stimulations, such as the importance of “freedom in Christ.” It became clear that we may also find joy in Christ in our everyday lives. We learned to humbly acknowledge that we are at different levels of understanding—yet heartfelt love unites us. The Bible is our guide, our map. But the Holy Spirit navigates us to our destination. The path He shows us is our path—my path—not that of my neighbor. This attitude preserves us from judgmentalism and strengthens us, allowing us to grow together.
These days were very valuable for the Church in Germany. When individual members are strengthened, comforted, and realigned, the whole Body benefits. Smaller congregations in particular experienced that they are not alone. Common prayer, singing, and spiritual conversations foster unity and protect us from drifting apart. God prepared a feast for us. Many felt the awareness of being part of something greater—yes, something “eternal and glorious.”
The camp meeting 2025 is now history—an extraordinary time. Much will only become visible in daily life—in small decisions, renewed faithfulness, and new intercession. But the direction is clear: to follow Jesus, led by the Spirit, as one body—to the glory of God and for the good of His church.
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