Journeying Into His Presence
I’ll begin with a decision I made at IHS Camp: my generation must see Jesus on the throne, starting with me.
This resolve was sparked by a snippet of a video featuring Pastor Ayo Okeowo speaking at IHS camp in 2022. I searched for the full video on YouTube and it was a game-changer. Watching the entire message left a profound impact on me. I’m not one to frequently share links, but I couldn’t help telling others about the video and even sending them the link. It felt like God had reignited a burning desire within me to deepen my connection with Him. I quietly thought to myself, I’d love to belong to a family like this.
Fast forward to 2024. I met a sister at church during one of our all-night theater rehearsals. Our conversation about faith was tangible. Her depth and love for God amazed me, and I couldn’t help but think: God, this is the kind of depth I desire in a partner. As we spoke, I mentioned Pastor Okeowo’s video, and to my surprise, she was part of the IHS family! Intrigued, I decided I had to attend the next IHS camp. (And yes, my sister is married, LOL! What were you thinking?)
This sister of mine, Olufe, encouraged me to attend IHS camp and after some additional persuasion, I finally registered. I even went further and got another friend to come along to camp too!
Rex at the 2024 IHS camp held in Lagos, Nigeria. (Photo credit: Banjyte Imagery)
The theme of the 2024 Lagos camp was “His Presence.” What better place to be than in God’s presence? From the moment I arrived, I knew God wanted me there. Bayo Okeowo (who is fondly called Sir B) introduced the camp, and his love for God was undeniable. The worship session with Jules and Femi Iranloye at the start of camp was beyond incredible.
Then came a pivotal moment. A song was raised during worship. Though I had never heard it before, God had already placed it in my heart days prior. When Sir B confirmed that God had also laid the song on his heart and that we’d worship with Rahama, it was yet another divine confirmation for me. At that point, I desperately needed God’s touch and answers to my heartfelt cries. God bless Minister Kaestrings.
Another defining moment for me was the session with Minister John Bassey. During his session, God reminded me of how He has called me to be a vessel of worship for His people. When I had the opportunity to speak with Minister John, his personal stories deeply encouraged me to get back on track.
Rex (far right) along with other campers in a photo with Minister John Bassey (middle) after his ministration (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
We also had a lot of fun at camp; the inter-squad games served as a bonding experience. For example, using spaghetti and marshmallows, my squad successfully built a structure taller than the other squad. This task underscored the importance of a solid foundation because despite the fragile looking tip, our structure remained resilient even when it was tested by strong winds. Many struggles in our faith today are due to faulty foundations. As believers, to stay grounded in God’s presence, our foundation must be firmly rooted in Him.
Rex strategising with other members of his squad to first design their structure that would be built using spaghetti and marshmallows. (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
Rex’s squad built a structure modelled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
Our visit to the Modupe Cole Centre was another humbling experience. Seeing individuals bedridden for 24 hours daily and others with various disabilities reminded me of how privileged I am to enjoy good health and a sound mind. We sang, danced, and played games with them, bringing smiles to their faces. It was a beautiful moment. We prayed for them, and I remain confident in the power of God to restore lives beyond our expectations. Amen!
L-R: Ibukun, Rex and Olufe during the visit to Modupe Cole Centre (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
IHS Camp is a place of love, peace, and a renewed hunger for God. I can’t conclude without mentioning the wonderful people who made my camp experience unforgettable. Thank you, Somisola, and God bless you. To the Okeowos, Iranloyes, Emmanuel, The Style Therapist, Pastor Simi, The Michaels, Kame, Rona, Imoleayo, The Timilehins, Dr. Adedamola, Dr. Adebayo, Jesutofunmi and sisters, and my soul sisters Funmi and Olufe—and everyone else whose names I couldn’t capture—you all made this journey memorable. God bless you abundantly.
Rex (middle) with other campers after the a moment of fingerprinting on each other’s t-shirts (Photo credit: Adebayo Okeowo)
Brethren, it is vital to know that we are custodians of His Presence. Where we are, God is. Trials and tribulations may come, but be of good cheer; we have already overcome.
As we journey through 2025, we go with God!