This year, the Southern Asia Pacific Division (SSD) held its Pathfinder Camporee at Mountain View College (MVC) in Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines. Over 10,000 Pathfinders from 11 countries attended the event, held from February 23 to March 2, 2025. The AIIAS Pathfinder Club joined with 55 Pathfinders and 16 staff.

Under the theme “Rebuild the Altar,” each night featured a musical theatre drama about Elijah’s journey. Day sessions included honor activities, games, life skills adventures, and Pathfinder drills. On the second-to-last day, 155 Pathfinders were baptized at the Mountain View College pool—one of the camporee’s highlights.

Hi, my name is Kylisha Paul, and this is my story.

It was my first time leaving my family and traveling alone to a Pathfinder camp. I was the only Pathfinder from the SPD and felt a bit homesick, but the excitement of being independent soon took over. Throughout the week, I enjoyed my honors classes and activities. But what stood out most were the worship sermons at night, which led me to decide to follow Jesus through baptism. On Sabbath morning after divine service, I filled out a decision card. My friends and I, who had also decided to get baptized, went back to our homestay to grab our towels. On the way, we got separated, and I ended up going alone.

When I returned to the church, no one was there! Alarmed, I panicked. I didn’t know where the baptism was and ran around asking random Pathfinders for directions. When I finally found my two friends they said the baptism was over. My heart sank, and tears welled up in my eyes. I felt so discouraged because I had

been ready.

Then, out of the blue, I saw the AIIAS Pathfinder Club members walking down the hill. They told me a pastor was still waiting for me at the pool! That day, I saw firsthand how the devil tried to discourage me, but I now know it’s never too late for God’s Kingdom.