On Saturday, November 9, 2024, 47 eager and excited members of Salt and Light Youth Ministry joined their equally excited facilitators and Der Nareg for a memorable and much-anticipated retreat at Camp DeWolfe in Wading River. Upon arrival, the participants checked in, settled in to their cabins and then enjoyed free-time with their friends, playing sports and enjoying the scenic campgrounds.
After lunch, the group headed to St. Luke's Chapel, to begin an afternoon itinerary filled with a variety of interactive workshops, including religion, culture and history. The first workshop, facilitated by Der Nareg, was an overview of the Seven Deadly Sins. Der Nareg held an interactive session with the participants, during which he delved into the 7 Deadly Sins and the respective virtues to overcome each one, engaging with the audience for participation and examples.
The second workshop was focused on culture and Mrs. Arpi Bezdikian presented the group with a lesson on the history and interesting facts about the uniquely Armenian Khatchkar. After learning about the distinct characteristics and symbolizations featured in these intricate Khatchkars, the youth were tasked with the project of creating their own versions using materials they collect during an afternoon nature walk. The participants were ready to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful day and joined together for an invigorating hike around the scenic nature trails that eventually lead to them all down to the beach area along the breathtaking Long Island Sound. On their hike, they gathered rocks, twigs, and shells they could use to create their own crafty versions of a Khatchkar later that evening.
After taking in the fresh air during their nature walk, the group was ready to participate in the last workshop of the afternoon, which was on Armenian history presented by Dr. Anita Nerses and Mr. Veh Bezdikian. It was a very in-depth and interesting session that included the campers' participation in asking and answering important historical questions. The participants were very excited about their question-and-answer period, during which they remembered much of what they had all learned in the Armenian school classes, and were rewarded with fun historical prizes for active participation.
The afternoon of active learning was followed by an amazing khorovadz dinner, which was generously prepared and donated by Mr. and Mrs. Sam & Lilit Indzighulyan. The kids were delighted with the delicious meal, and truly enjoyed the time eating and socializing together as a group. The dinner was followed by an evening vesper service, led by Der Nareg. This reflective time was a meaningful way to get the group together joined in prayer. After the service, the participants worked in groups as they created their Khatchkars from their nature walk. It was truly inspiring to see the creativity of their young minds as they crafted beautiful nature-inspired crosses from the materials they had gathered during their hike. While the evening was cold, the warmth felt inside by the blossoming friendships and religious-based activities was felt throughout St. Luke's Chapel. The evening ended with hot chocolate and smores enjoyed by all the kids.
The following day, our group woke up to a crisp and serene morning on the campgrounds and prepared for the highlight of the Retreat, our Soorp Badarak, open to all family members and parishioners that wish to attend. Ahead of the Badarak, Der Nareg held the final workshop of the Retreat, which was focused solely on teaching the youth the hymns and prayers of our Divine Liturgy. The Soorp Badarak itself was a very unique and touching experience, not only being held against the backdrop of the Long Island Sound, but also because of the participation from the young parishioners of our community, who did an amazing job serving on the altar, singing the hymns, and reading from the gospel. Their participation truly served as an inspiration to the young new participants at the Retreat. Following Badarak, all attendees were treated to a delicious Fellowship Hour lunch sponsored by our St. Sarkis Ladies Guild.
It was a heartwarming weekend for all participants. We are thankful to our dedicated facilitators and presenters who, alongside the leadership of Der Nareg, created a loving and warm atmosphere for our participants to grow spiritually and emotionally. The participants created a treasure of memories and bonds with their friends that will last a lifetime.
We look forward to our next retreat!