Our Journey of Faith

A Divine Spark: The Beginning

The story of the CAET Students' Camp didn't begin in a boardroom; it began in a prayer room. The idea was sparked during a heartfelt prayer session by five sisters (sisters Adeleke, Adewoye, Adeyemo, Akande (now late) and Seweje), who were interceding for their families and businesses. As their fellowship grew, they felt a divine nudge to bring their children together for a day-retreat at the Good News House.

That single day of interaction was an eye-opener. As they delved into the spiritual and academic lives of the children, they realized the profound need for consistent mentorship and community, especially with students scattered across different schools. What started as a small gathering for their own children was clearly meant for a wider family.

In response to a prophecy in 1995 mandating CAET to establish a students' fellowship, this vision took formal shape. The students began holding their own Bible studies, separate from the adults, and a powerful new movement was set in motion.

From Retreat to Camp: The First Steps

That same year, a students' retreat was organized at the Amusement Park in Bodija, Ibadan. It was a vibrant day-retreat filled with children of secondary school and university age. The anointing was so strong that at the end of the day, the students themselves made a passionate request: they wanted more than just a day-retreat. They wanted a full camp meeting.

"We don't want to just meet for a day. Can we have a real camp where we can stay overnight?"

The Executive Council heard their cry and inaugurated the Students' Camp Committee. The maiden edition of the CAET Students' Camp was held at the IYY village in Ibadan from August 7th-10th, 1996. For the next two years, the camp returned to that same hallowed ground, growing in number and spiritual impact each time as other churches and fellowships began sending their youth to take part.

Overcoming Obstacles: A Test of Faith

With rapid growth came new challenges. The IYY venue soon became inadequate for the swelling numbers. In 1999, the camp moved to the larger Wesley College in Elekuro, Ibadan. However, a new government policy preventing the use of public school premises for religious programs meant our time there was short-lived. The committee was faced with a critical question: "Where do we go next?"

As the committee launched out in faith to find a new location, they discovered that the God of plan and purpose was already one step ahead. He had prepared the heart of one of His children, who was the Principal of N.O. Idowu Comprehensive High School. This school graciously opened its doors to us, becoming our home for the sixth and seventh editions of the camp.

A Place to Call Home: God's Provision

Following a decision at the 2003 Bi-AGM, the Executive Council began a frantic search for a permanent location for the ministry's camp meetings. At the same time, a group of five families, moved by the Spirit, acquired a parcel of land at Eniosa and generously handed it over to CAET. This was the miracle we had been praying for.

Construction began immediately. With remarkable speed, a block of hall of residence was ready just in time for the camp meeting in August 2003. The eighth edition took place on our very own campground! Canopies served as meeting tents, and the male participants even used the nearby Anglican Church building for lodging. It was a beautiful picture of faith in action.

To the glory of God, the camp meeting has been held at our permanent site ever since except for the COVID year 2020. Each year, we are witnesses to powerful testimonies of salvation, deliverance, healing, and incredible spiritual growth. The seed planted in a prayer meeting has truly grown into a mighty tree.