Morning Devotion Moves to New Worship Space

The Morning Devotion service at camp meeting has found a new home. While many faithful attendees are familiar with the rhythm of gathering in the main auditorium, this year they will walk just a few steps farther to convene in the Stone Chapel. The intimate setting not only accommodates attendees but also fosters a spirit of unity, encouraging worshippers to “press together” in meaningful and spiritual ways.

During this morning’s session, Beth Grissom, Women’s and Prayer Ministries director, encouraged worshippers to draw closer to one another and to God. Drawing from Acts 2, Grissom reflected on how the disciples experienced a mighty rushing wind—perhaps as startling as the recent earthquakes felt by many Carolinians. Yet, she emphasized that the movement of the Holy Spirit was not just in sound, but in purpose—evidenced by the disciples’ ability to speak and be understood in many languages. The power of the Gospel, she noted, lies in its ability to meet people where they are and in the language of their hearts.

“We need to hear from different kinds of presenters here at camp meeting,” Grissom said. She underscored the importance of diverse voices—women, men, children, and people from varied walks of life—so that every attendee might hear a message that resonates personally and directly.

Grissom then shared a heartfelt personal testimony about a storm she and her husband recently faced related to his work. Her story reminded listeners that life’s trials call for messages of hope that speak specifically to the listener’s experience. While one person might prefer a particular style or speaker, someone else may be listening intently for the one message that touches their soul. “Be careful not to disparage any style or presenter,” she warned. “Some weary traveler is listening for the hope they desperately need.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder from Peter’s sermon in Acts 2—a call to hope in Jesus. “Camp meeting is a time to rest, be refreshed, and be reminded of our great Advent hope—that Jesus is soon to come. And because of His grace, we will live with God eternally.”

As worship continues throughout the week, the Stone Chapel serves as a fitting symbol: a place both solid in foundation and sacred in purpose.

— Christopher Thompson