STORY
Ohio Conference Baptizes 13 Young People at Summer Camp
August 16, 2023
Francis Tuffour
The Ohio Conference ended its 2023 summer youth camp at Camp Mohaven, celebrating young people giving their lives to Jesus and expressing their decisions publicly through baptisms. The camp, organized on different dates for diverse age groups, began with the Cub Camp for the kids between 6-9 years on June 11-17, followed by the Junior Camp on June 18-24 for ages 9-12. The Tween campers also had their turn on June 25-July 1. Between July 2-9, a family camp was scheduled for all ages, and the Teen campers attended on July 9-15.
This year’s camp, themed: “The Ultimate Promise,” had four pastors who came to speak to the attendees as follows: Cub Camp: Quentin Purvis, Junior Camp: Dale Sheridan, Tween Camp: Johnny Villamil, Family Camp, and Teen Camp: Jeff Akenberger. A week before the arrival of the campers, the camp staff came to the venue to ensure everything was lined up for successful camping. Apart from their physical preparation, the staff crowned their meeting with an agape meal and the Lord’s supper.
Joseph Ottinger, the new Youth Ministries Director of Ohio Conference, who started his role in January this year, noted, “This year has been a unique experience for me as the first year that I've been directly involved with summer Camp Ministry. I've been very excited about the staff that we've had. It's a group of young people who are committed to Jesus and developing a relationship on their own with him, as well as helping campers have a fun experience at Camp Mohaven, but also deepen their relationship with Jesus.” He complimented his administrative staff and managers of Camp Mohaven for their unique contributions.
Elias Esquivel, Camp Mohaven Ranger, emphasized the blessings of camping, “It always amazes me that summer camp is such a powerful tool for young people, for adults, and everybody, and anyone that comes through the summer camp program. When you leave, you leave blessed. And I think one of the main reasons is because you learn how to become a blessing to others.”
The campers received spiritual messages, performed group activities, and socialized with others. One of the key highlights was the baptism ceremonies held on different days for the 13 people who got baptized. “What I like about camp is working in a group and as a team. That has given me vibe and environment, and also being able to minister to campers and seeing one of my campers got baptized,” reports Patrick Niyonzima, camp staff member. While some campers were frequent attendees, others had it for the first time. Sharing her experience, Shania Mamarimbing, a first-time camper, said, “The teamwork among the staff and everyone has really impressed me. Everyone is always willing to help each other no matter what.”
Kim Myers, Assistant Director for the summer camp who could not hide her joy, shared: “I always enjoy watching the many ways God works at summer camp. His blessings and miracles have continued throughout this summer as well. It has been a pleasure to work with our staff and interact with our campers this summer.” Ottinger also expressed his excitement about the young people who gave their lives to Jesus in baptisms.
share this
Related Stories
With more than two decades of experience in youth camp ministry and operations, Russell Hallman has joined the Ohio Conference as the new Camp Ranger for Camp Mohaven. Having lived and worked at multiple Adventist camps across the country, Hallman brings a lifelong passion for outdoor ministry, hands-on service, and creating spaces where people can encounter God and enjoy nature. The Camp Mohaven Ranger position became vacant following the transition of Elias Esquivel, who faithfully served in the role before accepting a call to the Northern California Conference, where he now serves as Camp Director at Leoni Meadows. Hallman steps into the position eager to continue building on the strong foundation laid by Esquivel and previous leaders. Hallman’s journey into camp life began early. As a child, he moved frequently, living at three Adventist camps—Camp Berkshire, Camp Kulaqua, and Laurel Lake Camp—before starting high school. He attended Blue Mountain Academy in Hamburg, Pennsylvania, for four years, and later continued his education at Southern Adventist University and Southwestern Adventist University, earning a Bachelor of Business Science in Business Management. He also holds an Associate of Science in Automotive Technology from Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio. Hallman brings over 22 summers of experience at five different camps, including 10 years in full-time camp management and maintenance. He has also worked as an automotive technician for 12 years and served as co-director of facilities for a five-center daycare company. Reflecting on his lifelong connection to camp ministry, Hallman shared, “Camp is in my blood, and when the opportunity opened to return to camp ministry, I jumped on it.” He added that seeing the potential of Camp Mohaven and the strong support from the conference office made the opportunity especially appealing. In his role as Camp Ranger, Hallman oversees the day-to-day operations of Camp Mohaven, ensuring that all facilities are well-maintained, safe, and continually improving. His responsibilities include managing maintenance projects, coordinating with vendors, welcoming guest groups, and contributing to the creation of a positive experience that encourages visitors to return and share their experiences with others. During his first year, Hallman plans to focus on learning the full scope of the camp’s operations, evaluating current systems and facility needs, and implementing processes to enhance both efficiency and guest satisfaction. He also hopes to begin making visible upgrades that will further improve the camp experience for all who visit. Hallman believes that camp is a sacred place where people encounter God in a unique and personal way. His vision is to help Camp Mohaven become a destination where individuals, families, and groups can reconnect with God through the beauty of nature and the power of community. “Nature is God’s first book,” he shared, “and Mohaven has so much beauty that the possibilities are endless.” Working closely with the Mohaven Operating Committee (MOCOM) and the Ohio Conference, Hallman is excited to help shape a vision that will make Camp Mohaven a premier destination for guests from across Ohio and beyond—a place where people not only enjoy recreation but also experience spiritual renewal. Future plans include upgrading cabins, expanding lodging options, improving infrastructure and kitchen facilities, adding new RV sites, and introducing more activities for guests of all ages. For Hallman, faith is the foundation of both his life and ministry. He draws daily strength from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” He and his wife, Kristen, have been married for more than 26 years and share a deep passion for camp ministry. He met her while working at Camp Winnekeag in Massachusetts. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors, connecting with friends and family, and engaging in activities such as sports, crafting, and woodworking projects. The Hallmans look forward to seeing how God will use their time at Camp Mohaven to advance His kingdom and inspire others to grow in faith. As they begin this new chapter, Russell and Kristen Hallman are eager to connect with members across the Ohio Conference. “We want everyone to know that Camp Mohaven is your camp and that you are always welcome,” Hallman shared. He encourages churches, families, and ministries to participate in what Mohaven offers—whether by attending events, utilizing the facilities for ministry, or supporting its mission through prayer and donations. “We’re looking forward to meeting and getting to know as many of you as possible,” he added.
As part of the Pentecost 2025 evangelism initiative, the Iglesia Adventista Ebenezer in Cleveland recently hosted a Multicultural Festival – Día de la Diversidad Cultural, an event celebrating the rich cultural diversity within its congregation and community. The festival brought together members and guests for an afternoon of fellowship, worship, and international cuisine. Participants represented various cultural backgrounds, sharing traditional foods and music that reflected the global nature of the Seventh-day Adventist faith community. In addition to the cultural presentations, the program featured a time of worship and reflection on the biblical message of unity in Christ, a powerful reminder that all believers are part of one family in Him. The celebration underscored the church’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, outreach, and community engagement as part of the Pentecost 2025 initiative.
On October 5, the Mansfield Seventh-day Adventist Church held its traditional Women’s High Tea Party—an annual event that has become a cherished occasion for fellowship, inspiration, and awareness. Organized by the Women’s Ministries Department, this year’s event brought together nearly 80 guests for an afternoon of elegance, reflection, and encouragement. The High Tea serves not only as a joyful social gathering but also as an important opportunity to raise awareness about cancer prevention and promote holistic health within the community. Through this initiative, the church continues to strengthen its connection with women from both the congregation and the surrounding community. The elegant setting made guests feel instantly at ease. Upon arrival, each woman received a hat—a meaningful symbol tied to the event’s theme: “Behind every hat is a woman with a story to tell.” Throughout the program, participants were invited to reflect on their personal journeys, their faith, and God’s grace at work in their lives. In her devotional, Dee Simmering emphasized the importance of relying on God in every circumstance: “We all have a story—some good, and others painful and full of trials. We must lean on our Lord God Almighty to help us navigate life. We can’t do it alone; we all need God. His love, grace, and forgiveness are what carry us through. These are free gifts given to us when we ask for His help.” The beautifully prepared food and tea service added to the atmosphere of joy and celebration. Guests praised the event for its thoughtful organization, inspiring message, and warm hospitality, with many expressing their appreciation and sharing plans to attend again next year.
STAY UP TO DATE
GET CONFERENCE'S LATEST
Receive monthly updates from the conference, and get a heads up on upcoming events.
Contact Us
