Camp St. Innocent Brings Orthodox Youth Together in Alberta

PIGEON LAKE, ALBERTA — Camp St. Innocent brought together 51 campers, a family camper, three clergy members, and 20 staff members for a week of Orthodox fellowship and activities at the Ukrainian Orthodox Camp Bar-V-Nok facility from August 3–8.

This year’s theme, “You shall serve the Lord your God” from Exodus 23:25, shaped the camp’s Christian education, crafts, and worship. Fr. Chris Hawthorne led daily morning Christian education sessions, while Fr. Michael Gillis and Fr. Hawthorne also offered talks and informal discussions around campfires, in the dining room and throughout the grounds. Fr. Habib McGee participated as well, offering guidance to staff and campers.

Worship was centered in the facility’s St. Michael Orthodox Chapel, where campers attended Paraklesis and Supplication services, Vespers, Matins, and other services. Fr. Michael, Fr. Lazarus, Fr. Chris and Fr. Habib served the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Transfiguration, with Fr. Habib also helping campers participate in chanting and singing.

Camp life included capture the flag, angel hunts, color wars, waterfront games, campfires, a talent show, Wild West Wednesday, Hafli night, and cabin competitions. Visitors from Antiochian Orthodox parishes in Western Canada were also welcomed to observe camp activities and attend services and lunch.

Camp St. Innocent, which began in 2014, drew campers from Alberta and British Columbia this year, while staff came from across Canada and the United States. Organizers described the 2026 session as a memorable week for both campers and staff.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Camp St. Nicholas welcomed 300 campers for three summer sessions.