Youth Summer Camp 2024 Kaytana

The program was rich and diverse, catering to a wide range of interests and talents. 

An art atelier allowed the youth to create life journals and bracelets adorned with doves of Hope, symbolizing their personal journeys and dreams. 

Cooking classes offered the chance to learn and bond over delicious recipes, while the chemistry laboratory of Habib sparked curiosity and wonder through hands-on experiments. 

Music and composing workshops led by Fr Benny and Fr Roman, featuring a multitude of instruments, provided a creative outlet to the camp experience. Each participant even designed a personal t-shirt as a lasting memory of the melodies of hope being composed and sung.

Outdoor adventures were a key highlight, with youth sleeping in tents, hiking at sunrise (!) through the beautiful landscape under the watchful guidance of Fr Apo, and enjoying refreshing swims in Tel Aviv. 

These activities fostered a love for nature and encouraged teamwork among the youth.

A dedicated and passionate team, including Viola and Ali, a couple from Austria, guided the participants through each day. 

Spiritual nourishment was a central theme, with morning prayers setting a reflective tone for the day. The celebrations of Holy Mass and a night of Adoration deepened the youth’s faith and connection to God. 

Additionally, a night with prayer stations offered a unique and intimate way to engage in personal confession, reflection and prayer.

The camp was blessed with amazing food, lovingly prepared by our fantastic cook, Raba, whose meals became as always, a cherished part of the camp’s daily routine. Fr Michał and Fr Igino were a vital part of the team.

The visit by a Delegation of Church in Need was a special highlight, providing insight and inspiration about the broader Christian community and its efforts around the world. 

Tatiana Gomes of the Christian Media Center joined in for two days and gifted us with a beautiful video summary of the camp.

The final day of the “Journey of Hope” Christian Youth Camp was marked by the celebration of the concluding Holy Mass on the Triduum Sacrum. This Holy Mass was celebrated by the Patriarchal Vicar, Fr Piotr whose presence and words brought a deep sense of unity and encouragement to the camp.

His homily centered on the Resurrection of Christ Jesus, a theme that resonated deeply with the camp’s message of hope. He spoke passionately about the transformative power of the Resurrection, emphasizing that just as Christ rose from the dead, His light will guide us through our challenges and fears.

As the camp drew to a close, a meaningful and hopeful gesture marked the final day: the gift of an orange tree from the Youth of St James Vicariate to the Sisters of the Monastery Deir Rafat. 

This tree, symbolizing hope and future growth, was a reminder of the empowering spirit of hope in these challenging times.

The Journey of Hope camp provided fun and education and strengthened the faith and hope of all who participated. It was an experience that will continue to inspire the young hearts and minds long after the camp has ended.

Heartfelt thanks to all the very committed youth leader team.