Chosen for Mission: A Camp Meeting of Dignity, Faith and Service
From 223 participants on Thursday to 490 on Sabbath, the 2026 gathering in Bulawayo became a powerful celebration of belonging, spiritual purpose and practical empowerment.
BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe – Hundreds of people living with disabilities gathered in Bulawayo from 27 to 29 August for the third Zimbabwe West Union Conference Adventist Possibility Ministries Camp Meeting, held at Maranatha Adventist Primary and High Schools. The event welcomed both Adventists and non-Adventists, fostering three days of worship, learning, fellowship and empowerment.
Centred on the theme “Chosen for Mission”, the camp meeting delivered a powerful message: every individual has inherent value, unique gifts to offer, and an essential role to play within their communities. Attendance surged from 223 on Thursday to 490 by Sabbath, reflecting a growing demand for programmes that combine spiritual nurturing, inclusion and practical support.
Every Person Is Called
Pastor Patson Kazini, who oversees Personal Ministries, Sabbath School and Adventist Possibility Ministries, opened the event by urging participants to embrace their unique circumstances as opportunities to advance a greater mission. “Let us choose to worship God and advance His mission in the unique ways available to each one of us,” he said, emphasising that everyone has something vital to contribute.
Drawing from the biblical story of Jacob, Pastor Kazini reminded attendees that personal limitations—like Jacob’s limp—do not disqualify anyone from service. Instead, they can become channels for blessings and growth and blessing, a vivid reminder that God can work through the very circumstances that appear limiting.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit
Zimbabwe West Union Conference President, Pastor Bongani Ndlovu, officiated the camp’s formal opening on Friday. Quoting from Acts 1:8, he underscored that the Holy Spirit continues to empower believers to share their faith, no matter their circumstances. He encouraged participants to recognise themselves as a ‘chosen generation’ and never let adversity obscure their sense of purpose.
Faithful, Strong and Courageous
Pastor Strike Ben, Director of Adventist Possibility Ministries for the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division and the event’s main speaker, encouraged participants to remain steadfast in their faith. Referencing the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, he highlighted the importance of faithfulness—even when it comes at great personal cost. “The greatest thing you can carry throughout your life is faithfulness to God, because faithfulness has a great reward from Him.” He further drew inspiration from Isaiah 35, assuring those facing challenges that restoration is possible, and urging them to remain strong and courageous.
Dignity Comes First
A key focus on Sabbath was the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Human rights advocate T. Sibanda called on both the church and wider society to use respectful, person-first language, and to recognise the individual before their condition. He emphasised that people with disabilities should not be viewed as objects of charity, but as individuals with rights, abilities and potential. Sibanda advocated for support that empowers people, builds capacity and fosters genuine inclusion—highlighting the need for accessible education, healthcare, privacy and representation.
Chosen for Mission at Every Age
In his Sabbath sermon, Pastor Ben turned to Psalm 71, reminding the congregation that advancing a mission is not limited by age or physical strength. Every generation, he said, can contribute meaningfully to their community and faith. “Everyone is chosen for mission. No matter your age, you can make a difference,” Pastor Ben said. He also extended this message of hope to communities grappling with drug abuse, insisting that no situation is hopeless and that support and transformation are always possible. Children celebrate their Vacation Bible School graduation during the closing Sabbath programme.
Children Chosen to Shine
Children with disabilities were fully included in Vacation Bible School lessons and creative activities. Pastor and Shepherdess Ben visited the children’s arena, where children were encouraged to embrace their uniqueness and realise their potential to shine. The camp concluded with a colourful graduation ceremony for the children, complete with certificates and celebrations. Organisers extended special thanks to Mrs Blessing Sibanda, Director of Children’s Ministries, and her team for their dedication.
Empowerment Beyond the Camp Meeting
Participants praised the camp’s practical workshops, which included lessons in self-reliance, entrepreneurship, farming, health and adaptive living. Many also spoke of a renewed sense of trust, a deeper understanding of disability rights, and the importance of accessible infrastructure. Anesu Mauto, a non-Adventist attendee from Mpopoma, said she felt inspired to join the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Ambassadors Club after the event. Pastor Kazini organised the camp meeting, assisted by Pastor Siphethangani Dube of the South Zimbabwe Conference and Pastor Gresham Mlilo of the West Zimbabwe Conference. The Children’s Ministries Department, led by Mrs Blessing Sibanda, worked alongside the team to ensure that children were meaningfully included in both spiritual and learning activities.
A Joyful Spiritual Fruit
As the camp drew to a close, the message was clear: every person is valuable, and communities are strongest when everyone is empowered to participate fully. Attendance nearly doubled over the three days, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive ministry. Seven participants also expressed their desire to be baptised, underscoring the event’s profound spiritual impact. The 2026 Adventist Possibility Ministries Camp Meeting was more than just an event—it was a compelling demonstration that society thrives when everyone is seen, valued and empowered to contribute.
