May 10, 2025

Tabernacle Camp Meeting & Family Day Recap

Church history was made on April 4-5, 2025, as The Church of God held its first ever Camp Meeting and Family Day on our new Tabernacle property at 3750 Benton Pike NE, in Cleveland, Tennessee. Bishop Jerry Campbell preached powerfully both nights and challenged the Church to receive all that God has for us. He spoke of the urgency for EVERY member to be baptized with the Holy Ghost as we move forward toward perfection. 

On the first night, one member testified of receiving Holy Ghost baptism! On the second night, several came forward, humbled themselves, and knelt in the dirt to seek the Lord. It was humbling yet amazing to see both men and women unconcerned of their environment but with a burning passion to seek the Lord. As the clock approached 10:00 p.m., many were still praying, and the announcement we had waited to hear for years was made: “If you’re looking for us to dismiss our meeting, we don’t have to because WE OWN THE PROPERTY AND THE TENT! Hallelujah! As long as people are praying, the service will continue!” Altar music resumed, and several continued praying for some time before cleanup finally began and the tent was taken down and packed away. 

We are thankful for the 138 attendees on Friday night and 167 attendees on Saturday night. 

On Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., families were welcomed to the Tabernacle property for a host of activities. A large obstacle course bounce house was enjoyed by attendees of all ages. A disc golf course was erected for a sportsman’s challenge. Three corn hole games were available for all to play. Several carnival-style games were available for children to enjoy and even compete with others. The local church from Bessemer, Alabama, provided delicious (and very large) smoked turkey legs, cotton candy, and popcorn. Brother John Barnes grilled hamburgers and hotdogs. To top it off, two groups provided music and singing. It is estimated that over 200 people from several states attended Family Day. 

This event helped us see that our Tabernacle property is a great gathering place for drawing closer to the Lord, a great gathering place for fellowship, a great gathering place for families and friends, and a great gathering place where we can bask in the presence of God without being forced to leave. 

In closing, we wish to thank all the volunteers that made this event possible, as well as the support of our General Headquarters staff and the local churches in Cleveland. We are also pleased to report that $4,067.97 was raised for the Tabernacle during the weekend. To this we say, “Glory to God!”