Nurturing the spiritual lives of youth within the community and traditions of
the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.
Saint Seraphim Camp 2023 concluded on August 6 with Divine Liturgy led by His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas. The participation of hundreds of campers and family in the service and in receiving Holy Communion was the culmination of a week of cultivating friendships and enriching spiritual lives.
Camp began the previous Sunday, July 30, with the blessing of the campsites and campers and staff getting to know one another. In total over 180 campers and 60 volunteers were joined by over 10 priests and several deacons.
On each of the following days, campers participated in activities including sports, crafts, swimming, and lessons in outdoor skills, etiquette, dance, singing, and more.
Every morning after breakfast, each group of campers would join with a different clergyman for a lesson and discussion about life in the Church and living as a Christian (Law of God). After the day's activities and dinnertime, younger groups enjoyed campfires and prayed together in their campsites, while older groups participated in a variety of evening activities before also ending their day in prayer. Some highlights include the camp bonfire, where all groups come together for a cookout, skits, and singing, as well as the camp dance for the older campers.
On the weekend, campers helped to clean up the camp in between other activities. After praying as a camp in preparation for Holy Communion, the volunteers played a traditional volleyball game between the clergy, kitchen staff, and other counselors. Following his arrival that afternoon, Metropolitan Nicholas led the camp in the Vigil service, followed by dinner, closing remarks, and a quiet evening for all.