From Sunday, July 26, to Sunday, August 9, clergy, counselors, and young campers attending St. Seraphim Camp concluded its 34th year in picturesque Blakeslee, PA. More than 240 young people were registered for arguably the largest Orthodox summer camp in the entire Russian Church Abroad. Camp was held over the course of wo weeks, thanks to the help of more than 160 volunteers, some being previous campers themselves.

St. Seraphim Camp is traditionally held on the first week of August to coincide with the feast of Venerable Seraphim Sarov (August 1 n.s.). Every day begins with morning prayers, followed by breakfast and classes on the Law of God. These classes are led by a group of 8-10 priests from across the Diocese, who take time out of their busy schedules to spend time with the children. Classes are rather informal and usually take place outside, where the children are divided into groups based on gender and age.

On Saturday the 1st and Sunday the 2nd of August, the feast of Holy Prophet Elijah, Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America & New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad, visited the camp. In the morning, Metropolitan Nicholas celebrated Liturgy, joined by camp director Archpriest Alexis Duncan and a host of diocesan clergy. A youth choir adorned the services with masterful singing.

At the conclusion of Liturgy, Metropolitan Nicholas addressed those gathered with a sermon, in which he encouraged the youth to remain steadfast in their faith and to ensure that the blessed interaction that occurred over the past few days continue throughout the year. Fr. Alexis thanked His Eminence for his annual visit and for the great attention that he shows toward young people.

The following Sunday, August 9, the feast of Holy Great-Martyr Panteleimon, Eastern American Diocesan vicar Bishop Michael of Boston celebrated Liturgy for the conclusion of this year’s camp session.