On Saturday the Redeemed Christian Church of God’s Holy Ghost Congress saw an emotional moment when Pastor Enoch Adeboye shared the extraordinary story of how Redemption Camp came to be.
As part of the ongoing event themed “Onward Christian Soldiers,” Adeboye recalled how the camp, now a spiritual haven for thousands, began in the midst of hardship and danger.
He revealed that when they first arrived at the land, it was far from the peaceful sanctuary it is today.
“This place was just about two hectares of land where highway robbers made their base,” Adeboye said. “I was just a little above 40 years old when we came.”
The camp, located in a remote area of Nigeria, was initially a place of fear and danger. The land had a dark history, and its environment seemed to conspire against the small group of believers who dared to settle there.
Pastor Adeboye described how the land was frequently visited by snakes, particularly pythons. “Almost every week, huge reptiles were killed on the campgrounds,” he said. “But one of the most terrifying incidents was when we discovered a snake under one of my children’s bedsheet.”
This revelation shocked the congregation, underscoring the perilous environment in which the camp was established.
But the challenges weren’t just from nature. Adeboye also spoke about the human dangers they faced. “Not long after we came to the camp, we stumbled on spots where robbers dumped hundreds of suitcases, shoes, and clothes of their victims,” he said. The area was notorious for criminal activity, and the new settlers had to deal with the threat of violence on a daily basis.
Despite these frightening experiences, Adeboye said that faith in God and a strong belief in His guidance were the pillars that helped them push forward. He compared their journey to that of the Israelites in the Bible, who overcame challenges with faith, despite discouraging reports from others.
“The Israelites were faced with ten spies who gave negative reports, but Joshua and Caleb believed in God’s promises,” he explained. “We, too, believed that God would transform this land.”
One of the most dramatic moments Pastor Adeboye shared was about a mysterious tree on the land. “We cut a strange tree that the locals believed was cursed,” he said. “They said anyone who cut it would die. But many years later, nothing happened to those who did it.”
This event served as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith. Despite the warnings, the act of cutting down the tree became a symbol of their trust in God’s protection.
As the church’s leader reflected on those early days, he emphasized the role of the elders who had helped him through these trying times. “Don’t look down on elders,” Adeboye said. “They labored with me when we had nothing. They fetched firewood for cooking, dug holes to get water to drink, and worked tirelessly.”
The pastor credited the wisdom and experience of these elders for much of the church’s success. “The experience gained over years by elders can’t be learned in a seminary,” he added.
Pastor Adeboye’s speech also focused on the younger generation, urging them to honor their elders and embrace the opportunities they have. “You must seize the opportunity of your youth with faith,” he told the congregation.
In a moment of pride, Adeboye declared that the achievements of the church were unmatched. “Where else can you find a father in the world that has the kind of choir that we have?” he asked. The audience responded with thunderous applause, celebrating the church’s growth.
He also delivered an inspiring message to the younger members of the congregation. “If the enemy can’t stop your father, the same enemy can’t stop you,” Adeboye proclaimed, urging them to take on the world for Christ.
In his closing words, the pastor reaffirmed his unwavering belief in God’s power. “If God is on your side, nothing can stop you,” he said. “By strength shall no man prevail.”
The message resonated deeply with the thousands in attendance, many of whom were inspired by the remarkable transformation of Redemption Camp. Once a dangerous and desolate area, the camp is now a thriving center of worship, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
The Holy Ghost Congress 2024 concluded on December 15, with a grand thanksgiving service. The event left the congregation emboldened by Pastor Adeboye’s powerful testimony and the unwavering belief that faith can turn even the most impossible situations into triumphs.
