Antiochian Village Launches 2026 Summer Season With Family Camp

LIGONIER, PA. — Summer activities are in full swing at Antiochian Village, where families, campers, and Orthodox faithful have already begun gathering for worship, fellowship, and recreation during the 2026 season.

The season began with the annual Memorial Day Weekend Summer Family Camp, which brought together families from across the country for several days of prayer, recreation, and spiritual formation. Organizers described the event as an opportunity for families to step away from the demands of daily life and grow closer to Christ together through shared meals, worship services, and educational sessions. Daily Matins and Vespers were celebrated at St. Ignatius Church, with attendees participating in the liturgical singing.

This year's Family Camp featured presentations by Fr. Anthony Yazge, a former camp director, on the theme "Spiritual Leadership in the Family: Understanding Dad and Mom's Role in Providing Spiritual Leadership." Participants also enjoyed activities ranging from canoeing and volleyball to informal fellowship and relaxation on the Village grounds.

Antiochian Village also recently concluded its first session of summer camp. According to the Village's newsletter, The Gathering Place, daily worship services and themed evening programs were among the highlights of the opening session, which organizers described as a successful start to the summer season.

Looking ahead, Antiochian Village will host several additional programs throughout the summer and fall, including Homecoming Weekend from July 31 to Aug. 2, Adult Camp from Sept. 4 to 7 featuring speaker Kh. Melinda Johnson of Ancient Faith Radio, an Alumni Reunion in October, and the annual St. Raphael Pilgrimage in November honoring St. Raphael of Brooklyn.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a new St. Raphael Church was planned for Antiochian Village.