Faith, Service, and Fun Mark Teen Week at St. Andrew’s Camp

CLEVELAND, NY — Nearly 30 young people gathered at St. Andrew’s Camp for Teen Week, spending several days in prayer, service, fellowship, and recreation while deepening their Orthodox faith and friendships.

One of the week’s most unusual and memorable events was the consecration of a new antimension for the camp chapel. Campers and adult participants were given the rare opportunity to witness a sacred rite that is ordinarily performed privately within the altar. The celebration of the Feast of the Transfiguration also stood out, as the teens participated in Divine Liturgy with Abp. Michael and the traditional blessing of fruit.

Daily worship formed the foundation of the week, with services including Matins, Vespers, an Akathist to St. Olga of Alaska, a Paraklesis to the Theotokos, and a prayer walk featuring the Akathist of Thanksgiving. Religious education focused on the Major Feasts of the Church, while opportunities for Confession and a question-and-answer session with Abp. Michael allowed campers to explore their faith more deeply.

The teens also put Christian service into practice during a visit to the Samaritan Center in Syracuse, where they served meals, cleaned, organized supplies, and assisted those in need. Other activities included kayaking, swimming, sports, tree planting, crafts, karaoke, a trip to Seabreeze, and a masquerade dance.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Antiochian Village celebrated four sold-out summer camp sessions.