From August 1 to 7, 2025, the Olivet Teen Mission (OTM) US Summer Camp was held in St. Louis, bringing together teens for a week of prayer, worship, study, and fellowship. The gathering provided an opportunity for young believers to deepen their relationship with God, strengthen bonds with one another, and gain a greater vision for their lives of faith.
The camp opened with an orientation and worship service, followed by icebreaker activities and tours of local ministries. Teens visited mission centers, academies, and churches in St. Louis, learning about the vision and history of the Olivet community in the region. Each visit was designed to help them see how God has worked through the establishment of these ministries and to inspire thanksgiving for His providence.
Throughout the week, teens joined Bible studies on key themes such as identity in Jesus Christ, salvation, healing, and purity. Sessions emphasized the importance of focusing on God's Word during youth and learning to flee from temptation. Teens also engaged in morning devotionals, mentoring sessions, and cell group sharing times, where they reflected on the grace they had received and encouraged one another in fellowship.
Evenings were often dedicated to prayer meetings, where teens joined together with local congregations. These times of intercession and worship gave participants space to meditate on the Word, seek renewal, and encourage one another in faith. Many shared testimonies of how prayer gatherings became moments of healing, peace, and deeper encounter with God's presence.
The program also included interactive activities such as sports, cell group competitions, and a ministry exhibition. Through the exhibition, teens were introduced to a wide range of ministries including education, mission, health, and music, broadening their understanding of the ways the gospel can impact society. Excursions to landmarks such as the Gateway Arch and group experiences like praise and prayer nights added to the camp's vibrant atmosphere.
The camp concluded with a welcome ceremony for new OTM members and a closing message from the pulpit. The message reminded the teens that Jesus is the living water who satisfies the deepest thirst of the soul and that those who receive Him are called to be streams of life for others. A final group prayer and photo marked the joyful conclusion of the week.
Throughout the seven days, participants testified to God's grace, sharing experiences of healing, renewal, and a deepened calling to live for the gospel. The camp was not only a time of learning but also of encountering God's presence in a personal way.
As the teens returned home, the impact of the camp remained strong. The seeds sown during the week continue to grow into prayer, fellowship, and mission, with the hope that many young lives will shine as lights for Christ in their schools, communities, and nations.