The past weeks have seen Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan embarking on his own summer odyssey, with visits to our youth camps and conferences.
On July 27, Bishop Mesrop visited St. Vartan Camp at the Ararat Center in upstate New York, to be among the campers of Session “B.” As he did during his prior visit to the camp’s Session “A” (on July 8), Bishop Mesrop spent a delightful day among the young campers and the dedicated clergy and staff, engaging them in conversation, prayer, and play on the expansive Ararat Center grounds.
“I send my heartfelt thanks to all the amazing people who made my visit—and the entire St. Vartan Camp experience—so special this season,” he said. Click the following links to view photos and to watch a short video of the Bishop’s visit.
Bishop Mesrop made one of several summer visits to St. Nersess Seminary on July 23, this time to join the participants in the High School Summer Conference (Session A). Earlier this month, he spent time with young altar servers at the seminary’s Yn. Diane Chevian Memorial Youth Choir Workshop (July 9) and its Deacons’ Training Program (July 3).
“As you return home,” he told the high school participants, “carry with you the light of knowledge, the warmth of fellowship, and the love of God.” Click here to view photos.
Over the weekend of July 25-26, Bishop Mesrop ventured to AGBU’s Camp Nubar to visit with the campers and celebrate the Divine Liturgy. “Celebrating badarak by the serene waters of the lake, I was moved by the sense of togetherness and the palpable presence of God among us,” he said. “I’m grateful to the AGBU leadership, the Camp Nubar board, staff, and campers, for their warm hospitality.” Click here to view photos.
July 28-29 found Bishop Mesrop in Ingleside, IL, visiting the Diocese’s summer youth program in the midwest region, Hye Camp. It was a chance to tour the campus, observe the campers’ routine, and join them in sports and other activities. The Hye Camp community organized a splendid bonfire and barbecue to celebrate the Primate’s evening among them.
“Spending time with those amazing campers was a true blessing. Their enthusiasm for our Christian faith and Armenian heritage warmed my heart,” he said. Click here to view photos.
Summing up his July visits, Bishop Mesrop told the young campers and conference participants: “May your experiences this summer help shape you into humble, compassionate, and courageous servants who walk faithfully in the footsteps of our ancestors. Keep the flame of faith burning brightly, for you are ambassadors of our beloved Armenian Church!”
Click the following links to find daily galleries of the Diocese’s Hye Camp, and St. Vartan Camp Session A, Session B, and Session C (taking place through August 8).