Harambee 2025
June 25 - June 29
But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot. Jeremiah 20:9 (NIV)
Harambee 2025
Rev. Sapada Thomas, pastor of Central United Methodist Church in Jackson, MS, and Director of the Wesley Foundation at Jackson State University, deeply inspires and empowers others through his ministry.
Born in Ripley, MS, Rev. Thomas sensed God’s higher calling on his life at a young age. His faith deepened as he grew in the Word of God and experienced God profoundly. This Divine calling led him to return to the United Methodist Church in 2001, where he rejoined Moses Chapel U.M. Church. Shortly after, he was appointed pastor of Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church in Corinth, MS.
Rev. Thomas earned an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology from Northeast Mississippi Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Rust College. He continued his preparation for ministry by earning a Master of Divinity degree from Memphis Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Ministry at United Theological Seminary.
In June 2023, Rev. Thomas was ordained as a Full Elder in the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church. Known for his love of teaching, preaching, and worship, he leads with dedication, helping others grow in their faith. His favorite scripture, Jeremiah 29:11, reflects his belief in God’s plans for hope and a prosperous future: “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Rev. Thomas continues to touch lives both in the church and on campus, inspiring others to walk boldly in their faith journey.
Schedule:
First Day is Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Registration: 12 noon-4 p.m. Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m. Opening Worship: 7 p.m.
Check out on Sunday, June 29th, at 8:00 a.m.
Who:
Rising 7th graders through 2025 high school graduates (ages 12-18) and adult workers with youth. Due to insurance coverage concerns, no youth under the age of 12 are allowed.
What:
HARAMBEE is a Youth Conference planned by the HARAMBEE Planning Committee under the guidance of the executive board of the Southeastern Jurisdiction Black Methodists for Church Renewal, Inc. The conference is held annually to help youth develop their spiritual, leadership, and interpersonal skills. In doing so, youth will begin to develop relationships, connect with each other, and learn how to bridge the gap from generation to generation. The conference will also help youth and adults explore what it really means to pull together and work together in Christian love. Come to work, pray, sing, and build meaningful relationships with God and each other.
Registration Covers:
On-Campus Housing (Wednesday-Saturday nights); meals from Wednesday (Dinner) through Saturday (Dinner); programs and activities both on and off Campus. Participants should ensure that the appropriate people sign all forms. Registration will be considered incomplete if forms are not signed.
A $50.00 refundable key deposit will be collected on-site from ALL participants and chaperones. Please DO NOT include the key deposit in your registration check, it should be provided in CASH during Registration and will be refunded upon return of room key.
NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION!
Cancellations are accepted in writing only, and requests must be emailed to the coordinator for approval. No refunds will be approved after June 7, 2025. Any requests approved for refunds that meet Harambee guidelines will be mailed 30 days after the conference ends. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Housing
All HARAMBEE participants will be housed in campus dormitories. Counselors, please send a rooming list with participant registration forms. Adult supervision and security will constantly monitor the area to ensure the participants’ safety.
Bring It! ~ Stuff You Need
Come with an open mind and a loving heart. Bring Bibles, at least one trash bag, personal toiletries (soap, lotion, deodorant, etc.), bed linens or sleeping bag, pillow, towels, shower shoes, casual clothes, swimwear (participants will be informed if there will be a pool available), and dressy attire for the Harambee Academy Awards & Talent Show.
Wear It! ~ Name Badges
You must always wear your name badge and ID. It is your identification for all conference activities, including meals, workshops, and on/off-campus activities.
Don’t Do It! NO EXCEPTIONS! ~ Ain’t Misbehavin’
The United Methodist Church does not condone the use of alcohol or illegal substances, nor will acts of disorderly, rude, or inappropriate behavior be tolerated. Youth found in violation by using or possessing illegal substances will be sent home at their parents’/guardians’ expense – No refunds will be issued. Youth who are not a part of the conference will not be allowed into conference activities without express permission of the SEJ BMCR Harambee coordinator and the Harambee committee. Youth leaders/counselors are responsible for their youth and must enforce the curfew, as well as the rules and regulations of the conference. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Youth Leaders & Counselors!
To ensure we experience a great conference, each youth group should send no more than 1 adult for 1-5 youth, 2 adults for 6-10 youth, 3 adults for 11-15 youth, etc. The minimum age for adult counselors is 21. All youth must be accompanied by a chaperone. Male youth MUST have a male chaperone designated, and Female youth MUST have a female chaperone designated. If you have a single participant, please try to connect them with another local church if possible. All chaperones must have a completed Safe Sanctuary Form signed and approved by the pastor.
Security Personnel ~ Watching Over You!
Security will be available throughout the conference. If you have a problem, do not hesitate to ask for assistance.
Off-Campus Activities:
Youth Harambee will visit Two Mississippi Museums, 222 North Street, Jackson, MS 39201. The admission fee to the museum is included in registration. However, transportation to the museum will be the responsibility of Youth Leaders or Adult Chaperones.
