One of the main events for the Apostolic Faith Church in the city of Portland, Oregon, is the annual camp meeting convention. Every year, delegates from all parts of the world join the local congregation for two weeks of spiritual activity. It is an unforgettable experience for those who attend, and for some, it is a once-in-a-lifetime happening.

The location of the campground is SE 52nd and Duke Streets. The property was purchased in 1920, after a number of years when space was rented at various locations to accommodate the large tents in which early meetings were held, and the smaller tents that accommodated the people who came for the services. In 1921, the large domed tabernacle, which measures 100 x 125 feet and is 50 feet in height, was constructed. The trusses that hold the ceiling and roof of the building were designed so that no supports are necessary inside the building. Each truss is 100 feet long and weighs several tons. There are twelve trusses in number, and it was a Herculean task to put them all in place!

On the outside, the building appears much the same as when it was built, except that exterior walls have replaced the original canvas siding. The inside of the sanctuary has undergone several changes. The old sawdust floor has been replaced with concrete, in which hot-water heating coils are installed for use when the weather is colder. Auditorium chairs have taken the place of benches. Air-conditioning has been added for the comfort of the people during the heat of summer.

After the tabernacle was built, a regular little tent city formed behind the tabernacle among the fir trees covering the eleven-acre parcel of ground. Many of the Portland congregation would move onto the campground and live in a tent for the duration of the camp meeting (seven weeks long in those early years). Tents were also finished for those visiting from other locations. After World War II, when canvas became scarce and expensive, it was decided to build cabins. This proved to be a wise move. The contents of the 600 cabins remained in place year around, while the tents had to be put up and taken down and the contents stored in a dry place between camp meetings. Another innovation that has developed in more recent years is provision for about 100 RVs with hookups for water, electricity, and sewer.

The campground is well known as one of Portland’s beauty spots. The tabernacle, which graces the center of the grounds, is where the morning Bible-teaching services and evening evangelistic meetings are held. In the foreground is a colorful garden of varied flowers and an expansive lawn, overshadowed by tall evergreen trees. About 20,000 plants are raised in the greenhouse at the side of the campground, and volunteers plant them around the front of the grounds each May. Flower-bordered paths lead in different directions: one to the large fountain and lily pool, and others across the grounds to the cafeteria and outdoor patio. Choice shrubs and ornamental trees contribute to a scene of distinctive beauty.

At night, the campground does not lose its attraction. Floodlights shining on the upper facing of the tabernacle highlight the beautiful insignia: “JESUS the Light of the World.” A ten-foot gold star glistens above the words. Lighting the main path leading from the entrance to the tabernacle are green and silver decorative walk lamps. Of special attraction after dark is the illuminated fountain which continually throws its rainbow-colored sprays into the night sky.

A cafeteria-style restaurant and snack bar (visible in the background of the picture on the right) are maintained for the convenience of the campers. Kitchenettes are placed strategically throughout the grounds as well, for the benefit of those who wish to prepare their own meals.

We hope you can come to the Portland camp meeting some year and enjoy the campground with us!