Annual Leadership Convention 2025 Brings Together Adventurer, Pathfinder, and Other Youth Leaders

CAMP WAWONA, Calif. - On August 15–17, leaders from our Adventurer, Pathfinder, Teen Leadership Training (TLT), and Master Guide ministries gathered at Camp Wawona for our Annual Leadership Convention. This weekend was a sacred time of equipping, inspiration, and fellowship, as more than 100 volunteers came together to sharpen their skills, grow spiritually, and renew their commitment to leading young people to Christ.

Our theme, “Leaders with Purpose: Empowered for Ministry” (Ephesians 2:10), reminded us that “we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Each seminar, workshop, and worship experience was designed to call our leaders to recognize their divine calling and to lean fully on the power of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry.

We were blessed to have Pr. Dean, CCC Executive Secretary, as our main speaker for the weekend. His messages challenged and encouraged us to walk faithfully in our calling and reminded us that when leaders serve with humility and dependence on God, their ministry bears eternal fruit.

We also celebrated the largest group of TLTs, 25 young leaders who attended their own special seminars, including an exciting drum corps training. These young people began learning how to use music and marching as a powerful form of outreach and ministry, preparing them to bring new energy and creativity to their clubs.

One of the most meaningful moments of the weekend was honoring Norm Herman, Area 8 Coordinator, for his remarkable 60 years of service to the Pathfinder ministry. His steadfast dedication continues to inspire generations of leaders and young people to serve Jesus with joy and faithfulness.

As I reflected on the weekend, I was reminded that leadership in God’s work is never about titles or positions, it’s about faithful service. My prayer for every leader is that they go back to their churches and clubs with renewed vision and courage. “We are not just running programs; we are shaping lives for eternity.”  Norma Villarreal, Jr. Youth Director.

May the Lord continue to bless our leaders as they serve with purpose, empowered for ministry, and rooted in Christ.