“Higher: Reaching Up to God” was more than an aspirational theme selected for Southeastern Conference in 2026. It was a declaration of faith, a fitting banner under which to celebrate the Conference’s 45th anniversary, and a reminder that God continues to call His people to deeper commitment, greater service, and a closer walk with Him. In a world marked by uncertainty and challenge, the theme reflected both God’s invitation to His church and the collective desire of believers to draw nearer to Him.
As Camp Meeting 2026 commenced in Hawthorne, Florida, with early-morning registration on Sunday, June 15, the atmosphere was already filled with anticipation. Inspirational instrumental music drifted across the campgrounds, welcoming attendees and setting the tone for what would become a week of recreation, workshops, worship, fellowship, and spiritual renewal.
To fully appreciate the experience, one almost had to be there. Nestled beneath a canopy of mature trees and framed by Florida’s beautiful summer skies, the campground provided a peaceful setting for reflection and fellowship. Fresh branding, vibrant welcome signs, strategically placed way finders and colorful pole banners greeted both first-time and returning campers, creating an environment that felt both inviting and refreshing.
Among the early arrivals were Dennis and Hazel Williams of Lake City, Florida. Their excitement, much like that of so many other campers, was palpable as they prepared to soak up the moment. They had come not only to witness the ordination of their pastor, Pastor Edward Carr, but also to experience what they described as “a once-a-year gathering where believers come together in one place to lift up the name of Jesus.”
Prayer Works
Prayer has always been central to the Christian experience. It nurtures spiritual growth, aligns believers with God’s will, and strengthens the relationship between humanity and its Creator. Recognizing its importance, Southeastern Conference sought God’s guidance in preparation for Camp Meeting 2026 through a 40-day season of prayer and fasting.
Under the leadership of Dr. Mark A. Brown, Prayer Ministries and Family Life Director, members across the Conference united daily in prayer, seeking spiritual renewal and divine direction. The initiative culminated during Camp Meeting week and reached its climax on Wednesday evening.
It proved to be one of the most moving moments of the entire gathering. Hundreds who had participated through the nightly Zoom sessions testified to God’s faithfulness and shared stories of answered prayers, renewed hope, restored relationships, and unexpected blessings as they participated in a powerful anointing service. “Indeed, a testament to the goodness of God and how He honors our requests when we seek His face,” the Prayer Director concluded.
Sermons That Stirred the Soul
Just as inspiring music enriched the worship experience throughout the week, so too did the preaching.
Thousands participated in person and online from across North America, The Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, and other Caribbean territories, as well as from countries as far away as Ghana, South Africa, and England. Regardless of location, viewers encountered messages marked by biblical depth, practical relevance, and the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit.
Opening night set the tone as Conference Executive Secretary Pastor Pierre Francois delivered a powerful message entitled “I Just Want You.” Drawing from the experience of Moses and the children of Israel in Exodus 33:1 he challenged believers to pursue God’s presence above all else. “We don’t need more stuff, what we need is a deeper intimacy with God—we need to be filled with His glory,” he warned.
“Going higher is not about altitude,” Francois declared. “It is about amplitude. We need God’s Spirit to increase within us if we are to go higher in Him.”
His message resonated deeply, a reminder that “true spiritual growth is measured not by status or position but by one’s closeness to God.”
Throughout the week, attendees were blessed by other keynote messages from Dr. Andrea King, Pastor Tricia Wynn-Payne, Pastor Nikolai X. Greaves, and Conference President Dr. Michael Owusu. Additional speakers (afternoon) were Pastor Kelny-Hyppolite, Pastor Edward Carr, Pastor Siam Joseph, Pastor Dante Richardson, Pastor Colma Duvra, and Pastor Eric Bennett.
Women in Action
Women’s Ministries Night, coordinated by Women’s leader Esmeralda Guzman and team, proved especially memorable as Pastor Tricia Wynn-Payne energized the congregation with a presentation marked by creativity, passion, and purpose. Preaching from 1 Samuel 30:1-6, she drew a striking parallel between David’s ordeal in Ziklag and our own circumstances when we feel ‘trapped’ and life dares us to hold on to our faith. “Victory is closer than you think,” she declared, “because while you are weeping, God is working…”.
The President’s turn
Befitting the occasion was the conference’s President’s much anticipated message.
Drawing a compelling parallel between the woman with the issue of blood who was healed instantly, and Jairus whose daughter died while he waited for Jesus to arrive, President Owusu spoke on the topic “When Faith is Interrupted”. He reminded listeners that God’s timing often differs from human expectations, noting: Faith begins with confidence in a plan, not confidence in God’s process. What looks like delay may be divine design. Interruptions remove our illusion of control. Higher faith begins when control loses its grip and trust takes place. What looks like the end might be the beginning of something greater…
Offering parting encouragement to the applauding crowd, Dr. Owusu assured them that just as Jesus used the intervention approach to take Jarius higher in his faith, so will He increase our own faith when our plans are interrupted. strategy
The Pioneers Honored
A special feature of the 2026 camp experience was the honoring of past presidents of Southeastern Conference on its 45th Anniversary. These men were characterized as spiritual giants, each with a substantive, unique style of leadership, upon whose shoulders the conference rests today: Pastor James A. Edgecombe, Jr. (1981-1988), Pastor Jackson M. Doggette, Sr. (1988-1994), Pastor Roy R. Brown (1994-1999), Pastor Willie L. Taylor (1999-2008), Dr. Hubert J. Morel, Jr. (2008-2016), Pastor Gregory O. Mack (2016-2020). Pastor James A. Edgecombe and Pastor Gregory O. Mack were honored posthumously.
Youth in action
Life’s early lessons become mature testimonies. And the children from across the Southeastern constituent churches along with those from the Hawthorne community gathered for a week of learning, fellowship and fun under the theme “We Are Called” (2 Timothy 1-9) it was clear that the conference’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual growth of every child and ensuring that all young people have opportunities to learn about Jesus in a welcoming and supportive environment was realized. Through bible lessons, music, crafts, games, and prayer experiences, the children learned empathy, respect, and godly acceptance of each other.
By Sabbath morning, anticipation had reached its peak as worshippers gathered to hear Southern Union President Dr. Ron Smith. Preaching from Mark 4:39–41 on the topic, “Boats, Storms, and Destinations” Dr. Smith challenged believers to remain faithful and obedient amid life’s storms.
“You don’t know how strong your faith is until it is tested,” he reminded the congregation. “But every storm is intended to reveal who Jesus is… stay in the boat”. His message served as a fitting spiritual crescendo to a week dedicated to reaching higher in faith and commitment.
A Sacred Calling
No camp meeting would be complete without a Commissioning and Ordination Service, and this year’s ceremony proved to be among the most memorable.
Renowned preacher and educator Dr. Clifford Jones delivered the ordination message, “The Anatomy of Ministry,” based on II Corinthians 4. With passion and conviction, he challenged the ordinands to embrace their calling with courage, humility, and unwavering commitment.
“Go and preach the good news,” he urged. “Do not lose heart, for Christ is soon to come.”
As spouses, family members, friends, and fellow believers watched attentively, each candidate publicly affirmed a commitment to remain faithful to God and their calling.
Those ordained were Pastor Eric Bennett, Sr., Pastor Edward Carr, Pastor Colma Duvra, Pastor Kelny Pierre-Hyppolite, Pastor Siam Joseph, Pastor Dante Kensly Emmanuel Richardson, and Pastor Natasha Richards.
Their ordination represented far more than a personal milestone. It signified a sacred commitment to shepherd God’s people, proclaim His Word, and advance His mission until He returns.
Where do we go from here?
In a final one-on-one with Southeastern’s president, there was an undeniable irony — the elation of camp 2026’s success and the seriousness of the job of president. A man of deep intellect and dogged drive, his vision anchored in scripture and family, it is evident that he will continue to be a driving force in ministry both as SEC president or wherever else God may lead him. Another heart-warming camp experience written in the annals of history and President Owusu’s attention was already directed toward Camp 2027 and the work in-between. But amid shifting global windows, how do we share Christ’s hope and our quest for higher in today’s climate? Owusu answers! “First and foremost,” he quips, “we must dedicate our personal lives to the Lord as the first order of business if outreach to the wider community is to be effective.” He invoked one of his favorite quotes: “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and his teaching in our past history.” (Counsels for the Church, p. 359.4).
The President closes out
My Brothers and Sisters,
What a remarkable week this has been!
As we bring Camp Meeting 2026 to a close, our hearts are filled with gratitude for God’s goodness and faithfulness. Throughout this week, we have worshiped together, prayed together, celebrated together, and experienced the presence of God in powerful ways. We have witnessed lives touched, faith strengthened, prayers answered, and hearts drawn closer to Jesus.
This gathering has been especially meaningful as we celebrated the 45th Anniversary of the Southeastern Conference. As we reflect on God’s leading over these forty-five years, we can truly declare, “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Psalm 126:3).
One year ago, as we concluded Camp Meeting 2025, we introduced the theme that would guide us through 2026: Higher! Reaching Up to God.
What a journey it has been!
Together we have sought to go higher in our worship, higher in our faith, higher in our love and service, and higher in our commitment to mission. God has challenged us to deepen our relationship with Him, trust Him more completely, and follow Him more faithfully.
But the journey is not over. Every mountain peak becomes the starting point for the next ascent. Every spiritual victory prepares us for greater service. Every deeper experience with God calls us to greater commitment to His mission.
And so tonight, as we stand on the summit of one year and look toward the horizon of another, I believe God is calling us to take the next step.
Therefore, it is with great joy and anticipation that I announce the Southeastern Conference theme for 2027:
“And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” — John 12:32
Lift Him Up!
This 2027 theme builds naturally upon our 2026 emphasis, “Higher! Reaching Up to God.” As we have sought to draw closer to God through worship, faith, and mission, we are now called to lift up Christ before the world. A deeper relationship with Christ should always lead to a greater witness for Christ and a stronger demonstration of His love in our communities. Having reached higher toward God, we now commit ourselves to lifting higher the name of Jesus.
This theme reminds us that lifting Christ requires both proclamation and demonstration.
· We must boldly declare who Jesus is and faithfully live in a way that reflects His character.
· We must preach the gospel and practice the gospel.
· We must speak of His love and show His love.
In a world searching for hope, truth, healing, and purpose, our greatest calling is not to lift up ourselves, our accomplishments, our opinions, or even our institutions. Our calling is to lift up Jesus.
In 2027, we will commit ourselves to:
· Lift Him Up in Our Worship — Exalting Christ Above All Else – above every competing influence and declaring that He alone is worthy of our devotion and praise.
· Lift Him Up in Our Witness — Boldly proclaiming the everlasting gospel – the good news of salvation and sharing that hope with others.
· Lift Him Up in Our World — Demonstrating Christ’s love through compassionate service, and acts of kindness, mercy, and justice.
When Christ is lifted up in our worship, our lives are transformed.
When Christ is lifted up in our witness, souls are drawn to His saving grace.
When Christ is lifted up in our world, communities experience His love, compassion, and hope.
The future God has prepared for Southeastern Conference is bright. The same God who has led us for forty-five years will continue to guide us. The same Savior who has sustained us will continue to empower us. The same Holy Spirit who has moved among us during this Camp Meeting will continue to work through us in the days ahead.
My prayer is that throughout the remainder of 2026, we will continue reaching higher toward God. And as we do, God will prepare us for our next calling—to lift up Jesus Christ.
Thank you for being a part of Camp Meeting 2026. Thank you for your faithfulness, your prayers, your service, and your commitment to God’s mission.
May God bless you, keep you, and lead you ever higher until we meet again.
And as we continue reaching up to God, let us begin preparing our hearts for the call that awaits us in 2027: Lift Him Up!
Written by Doreen Washington
