Metr. Apostolos Makes Historic Visit to Camp Good Shepherd Virginia

MIDDLETOWN, VA — Camp Good Shepherd Virginia welcomed His Eminence Metr. Apostolos of New Jersey for a historic visit this week, marking the first time a sitting metropolitan has visited the Orthodox summer camp. Camp leaders said the visit represented a milestone in the camp's history and gave campers an opportunity to interact personally with the hierarch.

Metr. Apostolos was received Tuesday evening by Camp Director Fr. Thomas Manuel and Metropolis Youth Director Fr. Symeon Williams. During his visit, he attended the camp's Saint Skits program, in which each cabin selected a patron saint and presented a dramatization of that saint's life. Addressing the campers, the Metropolitan spoke about the origin of the name "Christian" and offered his paternal blessing to the children and staff gathered for the event.

The visit came as campers participated in several activities highlighting both faith and fellowship. Camp Good Shepherd also introduced the inaugural "CGS 500," a relay race spanning the entire campgrounds. In addition, campers began a study of the Gospel of John, laying the foundation for the week's biblical instruction. Organizers described the Metropolitan's presence as an encouragement to the camp community and a memorable moment for this year's summer program.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Apostolos reflected on the meaning of the Saturday of Souls.