This past weekend, a group of cadets from Camden Military Academy traveled to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to attend the 2026 Smoky Mountain Winterfest, one of the largest Christian youth conferences in the country. The event brought together thousands of students from across the nation for a weekend centered on faith, encouragement, and spiritual growth.
For many of our cadets, the trip was an opportunity to step away from the routines of everyday life and focus on something deeper. Through powerful worship sessions, inspiring speakers, and time spent reflecting on their faith, the weekend created an environment where students could grow spiritually while strengthening their relationship with God.
Winterfest is known for its energetic worship and impactful messages that challenge young people to live out their faith in their daily lives. Throughout the conference, cadets joined thousands of other students in uplifting worship experiences and listened to speakers who encouraged them to build strong character, stay grounded in their beliefs, and support one another in their spiritual journeys.
While the worship sessions and lessons were powerful, the weekend also provided something equally meaningful, fellowship. Spending time together outside the normal structure of campus life allowed our cadets to connect in new ways. Whether it was sharing conversations after a session, exploring Pigeon Forge together, or simply enjoying time with friends, the trip helped strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that are such an important part of life at Camden Military Academy.
Experiences like this remind our cadets that faith is not something they walk through alone. Being surrounded by thousands of other young people who share the same values reinforces the importance of community and encourages them to continue growing in their faith long after the conference ends.
Our Chaplain, Timothy Hunter, reflected on the impact the weekend had on the group, saying:
“It was awesome to see our students connecting with God and building wholesome relationships, because that is what it is all about.”
At Camden Military Academy, developing the whole young man, academically, physically, and spiritually, is an important part of our mission. Opportunities like Winterfest allow cadets to deepen their faith while also strengthening friendships and building lasting memories.
The weekend in the Smoky Mountains served as a powerful reminder that moments of faith, fellowship, and encouragement can have a lasting impact. As our cadets returned to campus, they carried with them not only great memories, but also renewed inspiration to continue growing in their faith and supporting one another along the way.
One of the students on the trip reflected by saying, “This year I had an amazing time at Winterfest. At first I thought it would just be a fun trip, but it turned out to be much more than that. I got to meet a lot of new people and make new friends. Everyone there was kind and excited to be together. One of the most special people I met was a little kid named Jordan. Even though he was younger than me, he was very friendly and full of energy. We talked, laughed, and spent time together one of the best people I’ve met in a while. It felt great getting to know someone new and sharing the experience with him.
Meeting Jordan also helped me think more about my walk with faith. He was so excited about learning about God and listening during the lessons. Seeing how happy he was about it reminded me not to take my faith for granted. The speakers and the worship were powerful, but the friendships made the experience even better. By the end of Winterfest, I felt closer to God and thankful for the people I met. I have never been in such a kind and welcoming environment if changed my perspective on life.That trip showed me that sometimes God helps us grow through simple moments, like meeting a new friend and sharing our faith together. This might seem crazy so say but I never thought I would break down crying in a church I guess anything is possible when you have Christ in your heart!!!”