DIOCESE OF EASTERN AMERICA AND NEW YORK: August 21, 2006
St Seraphim Camp Concludes in the Pocono Mountains

St Seraphim Camp concluded on August 6, the feast day of SS Boris and Gleb. After a week of record-breaking heat, the final weekend cooled and brought pleasant relief. Nearly 150 camper and junior counselors, in addition to a staff of approximately 50 adults spent a wonderful time in the wonder of God's creation. Each day began with prayer and classes on the Law of God. Afterwards, the days were filled with river tube rafting, hiking, archery, target practice, arts and crafts and a wide assortment of active sports.

The children marked the feast day of St Seraphim, Tuesday, August 1, by singing a moleben and akathist before his icon. On Wednesday, the camp was blessed by a visit by the Myrrh-streaming Icon of St Anna. The icon was brought to camp by Archimandrite Athanasy (Mastalski) along with Hieromonk Alexander and Monk Sergius. The children sang the akathist before the icon and noticed that the myrrh was freely streaming as they venerated this spiritual treasure.

The highlight of camp occurred with the arrival of His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus on Saturday in time for lunch. Vladyka spoke with the children and watched games such as tug of war, in which even the clergy and kitchen staff competed. All-night vigil was held early in the evening where, under the direction of George Gerasimowicz, a large choir sang the long service. After vigil, Vladyka Metropolitan asked for a camp photograph. Supper was prepared and a quiet final evening ensued. On Sunday morning, His Grace Bishop Gabriel led the services, at which most of the campers and adult staff received the Holy Mysteries This year's camp has been the most successful thus far and we look forward to an even better year next year.

Hundreds of wonderful photographs can be viewed at www.orthodoxinfo.biz/camp.htm.