Camp Saint Paul
Camp Saint Paul 2024!
On Thursday July 11, 2024, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America made a pastoral visit to Camp Saint Paul, the Archdiocese District summer camping ministry, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement, joy and anticipation. The camp welcomed a total of 190 campers and 48 young adult staff who were thrilled to meet His Eminence. Accompanying His Eminence were His Grace, Bishop Andonios of Phasiane and His Grace, Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, along with Rev. Protopresbyter Evagoras Constantinides and The Rev. Archdeacon Dionysios. Also in attendance were Ms. Paulette Poulos, the Director of Leadership 100, Mrs. Elaine Allen, Treasurer of the Archdiocese Council, and Rev. Protopresbyter Peter Orfanakos, President of the Archdiocese Clergy Syndesmos. Their presence truly added great significance to the event, emphasizing the importance of Greek Orthodox Christian camping ministry nationwide.
Archbishop Elpidophoros demonstrated his deep care and affection for the campers and staff by graciously sponsoring an ice cream truck. On a delightful sunny afternoon, everyone had the chance to savor the simple pleasure of classic ice cream. The presence of His Eminence brought a sense of joy and paternal love, fostering a sacred bond between him and the camp community. It was a truly blessed opportunity for all to experience a profound spiritual connection with their beloved Hierarch.It was truly a moment of spiritual jubilation, where hearts were ignited with passion for our faith and amazing love for our culture.
Visit the Camp Saint Paul Website www.campsaintpaul.org
CLICK HERE to View the Camp Saint Paul Promotional Video
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In 2004, the Archdiocesan District had a vision to create an Orthodox camping ministry for it's youth. Although several camping programs were available to our youth, they were shared with other metropolises. It was recognized that the children of the Archdiocesan District needed a program exclusively for them to grow in their Orthodox faith and fellowship with each other. In late 2004, His Eminence established Camp Saint Paul, naming it after the "Apostle to the Gentiles," and appointed Fr. Elias Villis of Rye, New York as the Director.
Working together, Fr. Constantine Lazarakis and Fr. Elias Villis identified a camping site called "Camp Hope" to host the new Camp Saint Paul. Located on the shore of beautiful Bantam Lake in Litchfield, Connecticut, the site offered not only the peacefulness and tranquility of nature, but also a full service facility equipped with everything from a vibrant waterfront and a ropes course to high quality family style meals and a warm sense of hospitality. With the help of the Archdiocesan District Youth Office and a team of devoted and passionate individuals, Fr. Elias kicked off Camp Saint Paul in the summer of 2005. The program was one week and had 45 registered campers. Over the next several years, the camp continued to grow as the youth of the Direct Archdiocesan District benefited from the spiritual guidance of Fr. Elias, local clergy, and their capable counselors. Many dedicated young adults gave up part of their summer to contribute to this important ministry.
Camp Saint Paul continues to be the crown jewel of the Youth Office of the Archdiocesan District. It is a wonderful and unique opportunity for our youth to experience Christ and our Orthodox faith alongside their friends, peers, and mentors. In 2014 we had our greatest year yet, over 620 campers registered for four weeks of camp. His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and the team are very much looking forward to 2015 and beyond that by the Grace of God this flourishing ministry of our Archdiocesan District will continue to grow. Camp Saint Paul is overseen by The Archdiocesan District Youth Office and is led by its Director, Fr. Elias Villis.
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