From Standing Firm to Mountains of Blessings
“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 125:2
The changing of seasons is often a time for reflection.
As another Cadet ministry year draws to a close, we have an opportunity to look back with gratitude and ahead with anticipation. This year, Cadets across North America focused on the theme Stand Firm, based on 1 Corinthians 16:13-14:
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”
Through club meetings, outdoor adventures, service opportunities, Bible lessons, and countless conversations between counselors and boys, Cadets were encouraged to stand firm in their faith and trust God’s promises.
In a world that often challenges young people to compromise their beliefs, the message of standing firm remains as relevant as ever. Boys need to know that God’s truth does not change and that a life built on Christ provides a solid foundation no matter what circumstances they face.
As we thank God for the lessons learned during this season, we also look ahead to a new theme that reminds us not only where our strength comes from, but who surrounds us every step of the way.
Mountains of Blessings
The 2026-2027 Cadet season introduces our new theme: Mountains of Blessings, based on Psalm 125:2:
“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people both now and forevermore.”
For the people of Jerusalem, the mountains that surrounded the city served as a visible reminder of protection and security. The psalmist uses that image to point us to an even greater truth: God’s presence surrounds His people.
Throughout Scripture, mountains often become places where God’s power, provision, and faithfulness are revealed. They remind us of His greatness and His unchanging nature. Yet Psalm 125 directs our attention beyond the mountains themselves to the God who created them and who faithfully watches over His children.
This is an important message for boys growing up today. They face uncertainty, pressure, and questions about who they are and where they belong. Psalm 125 reminds them that they are never alone. God surrounds His people with His care, His protection, and His blessings.
As Cadets explore this theme throughout the coming year, they will be encouraged to recognize God’s presence in both the extraordinary moments and the ordinary ones. They will discover that God’s blessings are not merely gifts He gives, but evidence of His faithful relationship with His people.
A Mountain-Sized Reminder at Kamp Longview
This summer, the Mountains of Blessings theme will come to life in a unique way as Cadets and counselors gather in Alberta, Canada, for the 2026 Cadet International Camporee: Kamp Longview.
Surrounded by some of God’s most breathtaking creation, campers will experience firsthand the majesty and grandeur of the mountains. Whether hiking a trail, sharing meals with fellow Cadets, participating in activities, worshiping together, or simply taking in the scenery, boys will be reminded of the God who created it all.
The mountains of Alberta provide more than a spectacular backdrop for Camporee. They offer a living illustration of Psalm 125:2. Just as mountains surround the landscape, God’s presence surrounds His people wherever they go.
For many boys, Kamp Longview will be a week they remember for years to come. Friendships will be strengthened. Skills will be learned. Adventures will be shared. Most importantly, we pray that hearts will be shaped and faith will be strengthened as boys encounter God’s truth in powerful ways.
Living for Jesus Among the Mountains of Blessings
As we move from Stand Firm into Mountains of Blessings, it is worth noting that these themes are not separate ideas. In many ways, they build upon one another.
We stand firm because God is faithful.
We stand firm because He surrounds us with His presence.
We stand firm because His blessings remind us of His promises.
For more than seventy years, the Calvinist Cadet Corps has encouraged boys to grow spiritually in all areas of life as they learn what it means to be Living for Jesus. That mission remains unchanged.
Living for Jesus means trusting God when life is difficult and praising Him when life is good. It means recognizing His hand at work in our daily lives. It means following Christ with confidence, knowing that we are never beyond His care.
As we begin this new season, may the Mountains of Blessings theme remind all of us – Cadets, counselors, parents, churches, and supporters alike – that God’s faithfulness surrounds His people both now and forevermore.
And as we gather at Kamp Longview and throughout the year ahead, may we continue growing together in faith, gratitude, and the joy of Living for Jesus.
If you are thankful for the impact Cadets has had on boys, families, and churches, we invite you to remember this ministry in your prayers and consider supporting its work. Together, we can continue helping boys discover God’s blessings and grow into Christlike men who are committed to Living for Jesus.
If you have comments or questions about this article, please let us know – info@calvinistcadets.org.