Bp. Irinej Visits Campers During Third Week at Shadeland

SHADELAND, PA — Campers at the third session of St. Sava Camp at Shadeland spent another week strengthening their Orthodox faith while enjoying outdoor recreation, creative activities, and longstanding camp traditions that have become hallmarks of the annual summer program.

Religious instruction remained at the heart of the week's schedule, with Fr. Srebrenko Vidakovic, Fr. Sreten Stanojevic, and Fr. Mirko Tomasevic leading discussions and lessons designed to deepen the children's understanding of the Orthodox faith. Campers also took part in arts and crafts, creating decorative wall hangings featuring the iconic Shadeland Tree, giving each participant a lasting reminder of the week.

The camp balanced spiritual formation with recreation, as children spent afternoons boating, swimming, and fishing on the lake. A new addition to the activity lineup, GaGa Ball, quickly became a favorite, with campers enthusiastically competing in the fast-paced game. Traditional excursions to the bowling alley and Waldameer amusement park also returned, continuing a pair of popular outings that campers look forward to each summer.

The week concluded with a visit from His Grace Bp. Irinej, who met with campers and spoke about the newly completed frescoes adorning the rear of the monastery church. Painted by Fr. George Popovich of St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church in Aliquippa together with his iconography students, the artwork offered an opportunity to discuss the beauty and significance of Orthodox sacred art. As the session ended, campers departed with fond memories, strengthened friendships, and a renewed appreciation for their faith.

Previously, the UOJ reported that New Marcha Monastery celebrated the patronal feast of the Holy Archangel Gabriel.