Two Weekends, One Spirit of Renewal

Story by Debra C. Anderson

For two consecutive weekends, the campus of Shenandoah Valley Academy in New Market, Va., became a place of worship, fellowship and spiritual renewal as thousands gathered for the Potomac Conference’s Hispanic Camp Meeting and Camp Meeting in the Valley.

The first gathering, the 2026 Hispanic Camp Meeting, drew more than 4,000 children, youth and adults under the theme, “Restored by Grace.”

A special highlight of the Sabbath morning service was a ceremony honoring Elvio Sotom, Rockville Spanish district pastor, for 40 years of faithful ministry as he prepares for retirement later this year. He was celebrated for his lasting influence and unwavering commitment to God’s work.

Featured speaker, evangelist Alejandro Bullón, one of the most influential voices in the Spanishspeaking Seventh-day Adventist world, reminded attendees that salvation rests not on the strength of human faith but on the faithfulness of Jesus Christ.

“The Hispanic Camp Meeting is more than an annual gathering, it’s a time when families are spiritually renewed, friendships are strengthened and lives are transformed by God’s grace,” says Rafael Soto, conference vice president for Hispanic Ministries.

Just one week later, approximately 700 people returned to the academy for Camp Meeting in the Valley, the largest attendance since the conference resumed holding the event on the campus in 2022. Centered on the theme, “Hope in Trying Times!” the weekend featured Morning Manna worship services, 14 morning and afternoon seminars, and messages designed to strengthen faith for daily living.

Author and educator Douglas F. Morgan presented the annual Adventist Heritage Seminar, while Dwain Esmond, associate director and editor at the Ellen G. White Estate, delivered the Sabbath morning message. During the prayer of consecration, led by Charles A. Tapp, conference president, the Holy Spirit moved hearts, prompting an impromptu anointing service for those seeking God’s healing and guidance. Southern SONlight, the acclaimed Southern gospel quartet from Ada, Okla., ministered to attendees with a soul-stirring Sabbath afternoon concert. The weekend also celebrated two baptisms, a joyful reminder that lives continue to be transformed through the ministry of camp meeting.

Tapp concluded the weekend with the closing message, reminding attendees that hope is found in Christ even amid life’s greatest challenges. The annual Afterglow followed, as members and guests gathered for reflection, fellowship and light refreshments while the sun set on another Camp Meeting in the Valley.

“Whether worshipping in English or Spanish, these gatherings remind us that our strength as a conference is found in our shared faith and mission,” says Tapp. “Camp meeting continues to be a place where people encounter Jesus, deepen their walk with Him and return home inspired to share His hope with others.”