Third Children Camp of Summer 26

Following the footsteps of Mary and St. Bernadette, the children in the age of 6 to 12 years discovered that God's greatest plans often begin with ordinary people who simply dare to say "yes." Beginning with the Annunciation and Mary's courageous response to the angel Gabriel, continuing with the Visitation and Mary's joyful Magnificat, and ending with the story of Lourdes, the camp revealed one powerful message: God continues to call people today.

Through prayer, music, workshops, creative activities and small group discussions, the children learned the Rosary, reflected on Mary's trust in God and encountered the inspiring witness of St. Bernadette, whose humble "yes" has inspired millions around the world. They discovered that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary people, but begins with ordinary hearts that are willing to listen.

The program brought faith to life. Swimming, team games, a treasure hunt, a day at the restful and beautiful Gan HaShlosha, campfires, evening processions and moments of worship created an atmosphere where friendships flourished across cultures and languages. Children from different backgrounds became one family, discovering that the Church is a place where everyone belongs.

One sentence accompanied the entire week:

Gabriel spoke to Mary. Mary spoke to Bernadette. Bernadette now inspires us.

The final blessing in the Church of Tabgha reminded everyone that this journey does not end when camp finishes. Each child returned home with a calling: to become a bearer of hope, kindness and faith within their own family, school and community.

In a region where many children grow up surrounded by uncertainty, fear and division, experiences like these are life-giving, discovering that they are seen, loved and called by God, and that they are part of something much bigger than themselves.

This is only possible because of generous supporters. Every gift helps provide a safe place where children can encounter Christ, build lasting friendships and discover the unique vocation God has prepared for them.

A special thank you goes to our Youth Ministry Team, whose dedicated small group leaders walked alongside the children every day with extraordinary care, joy and patience. Your witness of faith and friendship made a lasting difference. Our gratitude goes to fr. Benny for filling the camp with so much creativity, music and inspiring catechesis; fr. Roman for his daily prayers, his care and spiritual guidance; and fr. Piotr, whose joyful and inspiring celebration of Holy Mass and moving homily on the multiplication of the loaves and fishes reminded us that when we place our small gifts into God's hands, He multiplies them beyond anything we could imagine. It became a beautiful image of this entire camp.

Thank you to Danielle, Monika, Kati, DJ and Rodni, whose countless hours of planning, organization and loving service created an environment where every child felt welcomed, safe and valued.

We are also deeply grateful to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) for its generous support, which made this Kaytanah possible.