Our Annual Retreat

The Salt & Light annual retreat is upon us, and it’s sure to be another memorable gathering! 

This weekend, over fifty members and facilitators of St. Sarkis Church's Salt & Light Ministry will head to Camp DeWolf in Wading River, Long Island, for a time of reflection, community, and growth. Looking back, it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come. In 2019, we took a leap of faith with our first retreat for this newly formed group. It turned out to be a positive experience for both participants and facilitators. Though the pandemic kept us from gathering in 2020 and 2021, we returned in 2022, and now, we’re thrilled to be holding our fourth retreat. 

These retreats bring a beautiful blend of fun, connection, and learning. Participants love spending time together, playing games, hiking, exploring, and even dancing. Facilitators, though a little exhausted by the end, are dedicated to making sure everyone is safe and having a meaningful experience with their friends.

Personally, I look forward to the time away from everyday life. The camp’s serene location allows us all to take a breath and reconnect with ourselves and each other. I cherish the peaceful walk down to the beach and along Long Island Sound. The nighttime campfires, the singing around the fire, and the thoughtful lectures by our facilitators create such a warm, inviting atmosphere. But most of all, I treasure celebrating Badarak in the chapel overlooking the water. The chapel’s cozy, intimate setting brings me closer to the congregants, especially our young adults, who do their best to take part in the celebration.

I’m eagerly awaiting the retreat this weekend. Fr. Vahan Kouyoumdjian will celebrate Badarak at St. Sarkis Church on Sunday, but for anyone nearby or those on the eastern parts of Long Island, you’re warmly invited to join us at Camp DeWolf. Arrive at 10:30 AM to celebrate Badarak with Salt & Light—we would love to see you there!

Prayerfully,

Der Nareg