Camp Geneva's First Liberian Counselor

History is often made quietly—through opportunity, courage, and a willingness to step into new spaces. The summer of 2009, Camp Geneva proudly marks a historic milestone with the appointment of its first Liberian counselor, a moment that reflects growth, diversity, and the power of inclusion.

That milestone was embodied by Liverpool L.P. King Nayou-Gwion, affectionately known by the campers as “Uncle L.P.” His journey to Camp Geneva is one shaped by faith, perseverance, and a lifelong calling to ministry—“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5).

Community gathering supporting humanitarian efforts

Camp Geneva’s First Liberian Counselor

Calling and ministry often unfold through seasons of service, redirection, and obedience. Camp Geneva’s historic moment—the appointment of its first Liberian counselor—is a powerful example of how God uses opportunities to restore purpose and reaffirm calling.

This milestone was marked through the life and service of Liverpool L.P. King Nayou-Gwion, affectionately known to campers as “Uncle L.P.” His journey reflects faith shaped by hardship, nurtured through service, and fulfilled through obedience—“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).

Background and Early Calling

Liverpool’s foundation in ministry began long before Camp Geneva. His upbringing was rooted in faith, service, and resilience.

His background includes:

• Refugee Upbringing: Liverpool and his family lived in refugee camps in Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) after fleeing conflict.

• Spiritual Heritage: His father served as a local preacher and teacher in the refugee camps, faithfully ministering to displaced families.

• Early Ministry: At just seven years old, Liverpool began preaching across refugee camps in West Africa—an early sign of a divine calling.

Scripture reminds us, “Out of the mouths of babes and infants You have ordained praise” (Psalm 8:2), and “Do not say, ‘I am too young’… You must go to everyone I send you to” (Jeremiah 1:7).

Transition to America and Growth

In 2003, at the age of 15, Liverpool and his entire family relocated to the United States as refugees. This transition marked a new chapter filled with opportunity, adjustment, and spiritual growth.

Key moments in this season included:

• Adapting to life in America while carrying the weight of displacement

• Holding onto faith planted during his childhood

• Learning how God refines His servants through time and experience

As Scripture says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21).

The Role of Camp Geneva in Restoring Calling

Opportunities for alignment often come through service. Liverpool’s connection with The Other Way Ministry in Grand Rapids, Michigan, opened the door for him to serve as a counselor at Camp Geneva—a pivotal season in his life.

At Camp Geneva, his role included:

• Mentoring and guiding youth

• Leading through compassion, discipline, and faith

• Serving as a living testimony of perseverance and obedience

This season helped realign Liverpool with his God-given calling, reminding him that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6).

Camp Geneva became more than a camp—it became a place of spiritual renewal and direction, confirming that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Impact on Campers and Community

Liverpool’s presence at Camp Geneva left a lasting impact on both campers and staff. Known affectionately as “Uncle L.P.”, he exemplified servant leadership and spiritual maturity.

His influence included:

• Serving as a positive male role model

• Sharing cultural and faith-based perspectives

• Encouraging youth to walk boldly in their purpose

In doing so, he fulfilled the charge to “set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

Continuing the Mission

Today, Liverpool serves as a pastor at Mount Zion Prayer Ministries in Des Moines, Iowa, continuing the calling that began in refugee camps and was reaffirmed at Camp Geneva.

His journey stands as a testimony that:

• God’s calling is not lost through hardship

• Service often precedes elevation

• Obedience unlocks restoration

As Scripture declares, “The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29).

Conclusion

Camp Geneva’s first Liberian counselor represents more than a historical first—it represents faith restored, calling reaffirmed, and purpose fulfilled. Liverpool L.P. King Nayou-Gwion’s story reminds us that God uses every season to shape His servants and every opportunity to draw them closer to His will.

This is not just a story of a counselor—it is a testimony of divine alignment, global fellowship, and unwavering faith.