From July 31 to August 4, 2025, the 13th All-Japan Pathfinder Camporee was held at the Tsumagoi Kazawa Campground in Gunma Prefecture, marking the first time the event had taken place in seven years. Approximately 230 participants from across Japan gathered under the theme “Glory of God” to enjoy a fulfilling four-night, five-day experience. This year was especially meaningful, as it was the first time in 15 years that the camp offered tent camping and self-catering, allowing participants to experience nature more deeply.
One of the highlights of the camp was a mountain climbing program, where participants encouraged one another until they reached the summit, symbolizing the importance of unity and perseverance. In addition, various booths were set up each day, including first aid, crafts, games, and a special NSD booth, providing participants with opportunities for learning and creativity. Guests from South Korea also joined the camporee, and Master Guides dispatched from the Middle West Korean Conference operated three booths that were especially popular among the youth.
The camporee also marked an important transition in uniforms. For the first time, Japanese Pathfinders wore the worldwide Pathfinder standard uniform instead of the traditional Japanese Pathfinder attire that had been used for many years. This change symbolized a step toward global unity and a new era of possibilities for the movement in Japan.
Each day of the camporee featured different worship programs led by various speakers, including Hiroshi Ito, President of the East Japan Conference, at the opening; Choi HoYoung, Youth Director of the Northern Asia-Pacific Division, who gave words of encouragement; and Yutaka Inada, President of the Japan Union Conference, at the closing. Participants also studied the lives of Joshua, Daniel, Paul, and Jesus Christ, learning the joy and importance of living for the glory of God.
For the participants, the camporee became a place for new encounters and friendships. Each Pathfinder created an original name card and exchanged them throughout the event, fostering bonds that extended beyond their local clubs. Although there were no baptisms at this camporee, the gathering itself was celebrated as a significant milestone for the Pathfinder ministry in Japan.
Reflecting on the overall experience, Pastor Choi shared, “I am delighted that the camporee concluded successfully. It was a meaningful event as the Japan Union Conference and the Korean Union Conference reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate through exchange programs for the future development of the Pathfinder ministry.”
The 13th All-Japan Pathfinder Camporee not only provided opportunities for outdoor adventure and spiritual growth but also strengthened fellowship among Pathfinders across Japan. It also opened new possibilities for international cooperation, especially between the Japan Union Conference and the Korean Union Conference, in the ongoing development of the Pathfinder ministry.
