Communing In His Presence
Bags packed and excitement full. “What does it look like when a community of believers gather?” Those were my exact thoughts as I prepared for the 2024 IHS camp in Lagos, Nigeria. Now looking back, I really can say that Camp was everything I imagined it to be and more!!
Tunmise looking all glam during our annual signature photoshoot session on the last day of camp (Photo credit: Banjyte Imagery)
I already had a long year and needed time to reset and unwind. A friend suggested coming to the In His Steps camp and I knew I had to clear my calendar as I've always wanted to join a Christian community and just connect with like-minded people.
For someone who is quite introverted, I had so many thoughts about how I’d blend in as this was my first experience. I decided to go with an open mind and tried not to overthink it.
From my first interaction at camp with my roommate, it felt like home already! I blended in so easily you’d think I had been there before (I even did the “Why should we wait trend” on the first night of camp ).
An excited Tunmise at IHS Camp (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
Every moment spent dwelling in God’s presence was refreshing; the word was very timely!! I was at the point where I had so many questions brewing in my mind about my fellowship with God and other aspects of my daily life. There was so much to learn and unpack with the guest speakers. There was a vulnerable session we had with Ebele Light where she spoke about how the presence of God is a PRACTICE that requires one thing which is our heart and how our heart should be fixated more on Jesus rather than earthly things because our final reward is in God. There was also the session with Pastor Frank Oluwadelemi where he taught on the problems that don’t allow us to dwell in God’s presence.
They were all truly insightful!
It is impossible to forget Minister John Bassey’s worship session!!! And moments he shared his life experiences with us about how he was able to handle grief, and his journey as a Christian in the creative space. It was such an honest moment that was deeply enriching.
We had breakout sessions where we discussed life’s experiences; and how to handle relationships with our friends, parents, and partners. Everyone shared questions that had been on their minds and their personal experiences. This was quite personal for me as it catered to a major standpoint in my life where I had so many unanswered questions.
Tunmise (front row, far right) with other sisters at camp. Picture was taken right after the a moment of fingerprinting on each other’s t-shirts as a reminder that we are not alone on our faith journey (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
Amidst the learning and moments of reflection, we also had some team bonding experience where we had an array of creativity and fun with a sprinkle of competition. I will also never forget our visit to Modupe Cole Care Centre for People Living With Disability. It was an emotional moment and made me realize that they are God’s special creation and even though certain circumstances might have resulted in significant challenges in their lives, they’re still God’s own and they shouldn’t be loved any less. I will actually encourage everyone to make a visit to homes like Modupe Cole. It would change our perspective on life and help us to share God’s love to those most in need.
The last day of camp came and it was time for us to say our goodbyes to an experience we didn’t want to end. One thing I know for sure is that I definitely didn’t leave camp the way I came. It was such a refreshing time in God’s presence. New lessons were learnt, new friendships were formed and I’m navigating this year 2025 with mindset to “Go with God!”
L-R: Temi, Precious, Jennifer and Tunmise on the last day of camp. Beautiful friendships forged (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
There is no doubt that I’d definitely make plans to join the next camp. It feels great to be a part of this tribe!