SOUTH CANAAN, PA [DOEPA]
On Monday, June 29, 2026, the Feast of the Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, St. Tikhon's Summer Camp began the week with a full day of activities as campers participated in a variety of programs, games, and fellowship throughout the day.
In the morning, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated for the feast. The Liturgy was celebrated by Priest Joseph Sharman, Camp Chaplain and Associate Priest at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Wilmington, DE, Priest Aleksey Paranyuk, Archpriest Aleksey Paranyuk, Rector of St. Michael's Church in Mount Carmel, PA, and Priest Paul Witek, Rector of All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA, and Academic Dean of St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary, with Deacon James Magruder. His Eminence Archbishop Mark presided from the throne. The choir was directed by Reader Samuel Regen.
During the Communion of the Clergy, Priest Paul Witek offered the homily.
Throughout the day, campers participated in a wide variety of activities, including boating on the lake, swimming, workshops, and instructional sessions. They also enjoyed opportunities to paint icons, learn traditional dance, practice liturgical music, and, above all, spend time having fun while building lasting friendships with fellow campers and counselors.
Following dinner, campers eagerly gathered for the camp's annual water balloon fight, one of the most anticipated traditions of the week. Filled with laughter, excitement, and friendly competition, the activity provided an evening of joyful fellowship as campers and counselors alike embraced the fun and energy of the occasion.
As the day drew to a close, the camp community once again gathered in prayer as Daily Vespers was served by Priest Paul Witek. Concluding the evening's activities with worship, the service reminded campers that life at St. Tikhon's Summer Camp is firmly rooted in the liturgical life of the Church, where prayer and fellowship together shape each day. The first full day of camp reflected the mission of the Youth Ministries of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania by bringing together worship, learning, recreation, and Christian fellowship. With many more activities, services, and opportunities for spiritual growth still to come, campers eagerly looked forward to the week ahead.
Photo credit: Elisabeth Parsells
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
