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CCC Pathfinder Camporee 2026
A Weekend of Faith, Friendship, Leadership, and Unforgettable Memories
The 2026 Central California Conference Pathfinder Camporee has ended, but the memories, friendships, lessons, and spiritual experiences will continue long after the tents have been packed away!
Under the theme “Stand Firm,” Pathfinder clubs from across the Central California Conference gathered at Fresno Adventist Academy for a weekend filled with worship, fellowship, leadership development, practical learning, exciting activities, and opportunities to grow closer to Jesus.
With approximately 800 Pathfinders, staff, and guests gathered for Sabbath worship, it was truly encouraging to see our Pathfinder family come together with one purpose—to help our young people grow in faith, character, leadership, and service.
Our Camporee began with an inspiring Friday evening worship program featuring three biblical dramatizations presented by our Pathfinder clubs. The Central Valley Golden Eagle Pathfinder Club presented David and Goliath. The Armona Jaguars Pathfinder Club presented a skit based on Daniel’s three friends. Then, the Waterford Warrior Pathfinder Club performed the story of Esther. Wendell Paypa, CCC Junior Youth Director, concluded the evening encouraging Pathfinders to stand firm in their faith.
Sabbath morning began with the raising of the flags. Pathfinders from different clubs and churches then gathered to collaborate, participate, and worship as one family in Christ -reminding us that through Pathfinder ministry we are united by our love for Jesus and our commitment to helping young people grow in Him.
The highlight of the worship service was hearing three young Pathfinder speakers deliver inspiring messages centered on our Camporee theme. Jzel Idnay reminded us that our faith must be built on the unchanging foundation of Jesus Christ and His Word. James Caranja challenged fellow Pathfinders to have the courage to stand for what is right. Then, Olivia Noffsinger challenged everyone to extend their faith beyond the Camporee and the walls of the church.
Pastor David Pikop, pastor of the Hollister Seventh-day Adventist Church, followed these messages by inviting Pathfinders to respond personally to God's calling and renew their decision to stand firm in Jesus.
Saturday afternoon introduced one of the most meaningful moments of the weekend. We rejoiced as Mateo Gallego gave his life to Jesus through baptism. As we celebrated Mateo's decision, we were reminded that while Camporees provide opportunities for adventure, friendship, leadership, and learning, nothing is more meaningful than seeing a young person choose to follow Jesus.
The afternoon continued with 14 Pathfinder honor classes. The gym was transformed into a center of discovery and hands-on experiences. Pathfinders rotated through the stations, developing practical skills, and earning additional honors. Throughout the gym, young people were actively engaged in listening and demonstrating a genuine eagerness to learn.
The Saturday evening social was led by Wendell Paypa who introduced “Marching,” a social activity enjoyed by generations of Adventist young people in the Philippines. Unlike traditional marching drills, this activity involves participants marching with a partner while following a series of movements, formations, and routines announced by the march leader. As each new sequence is called, participants must listen, coordinate with their partners, and move together.
Pathfinders and staff enthusiastically joined. Coordinating the different routines became quite a challenge, but that only added to the laughter and excitement! For many, this was their first introduction to this unique tradition. For others, it brought back cherished memories.
Dia Bitzer shared, "One of our favorite social night traditions growing up, from elementary and academy through college, was marching with your ‘special’ chosen partner. Most Adventist youth in the Philippines used to do it. It brings back such fun memories… I’m happy that my girl Erika was able to participate it with me tonight, thanks to Wendell Paypa for leading it."
The camporee concluded with a Sunday morning filled with more hands-on learning activities and a final flag retreat ceremony. However, the impact of the event lives on.
Events like this do more than bring young people together for a weekend of fun. They create lasting memories, build meaningful friendships, and give our Pathfinders a sense of belonging to a larger family. When young people feel connected, welcomed, and excited to be part of something meaningful, we are strengthening the future of Pathfinder ministry!
To every participant and volunteer, thank you for making the 2026 CCC Pathfinder Camporee a wonderful and memorable experience! May we continue to work together, support one another, strengthen our clubs, develop young leaders, and create opportunities that will inspire more young people to become part of the Pathfinder family.
Article Written by Wendell R. Paypa, CCC Jr. Youth Director
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