SOUTH CANAAN, PA [DOEPA]
On Thursday, July 2, 2026, one of the most anticipated traditions of St. Tikhon's Summer Camp returned as the annual Sock Competition brought campers, counselors, clergy, and staff together for a morning of laughter and friendly competition.
For several weeks leading up to camp, Archpriest John Parker, Dean of St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary, playfully taunted Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, confidently predicting his own victory. Although Father John was unable to attend camp in person this year, he participated remotely via Zoom, submitting his official entry and joining the competition live from Virginia.
Father Timothy was the first to present his entry, unveiling a pair of bright flamingo-themed socks that immediately drew laughter and applause from the crowd. Father John followed (via proxy by Mr. David Getz, Assistant to the Dean) by revealing his custom socks featuring Father Timothy's face alongside the humorous slogan, "Fr Tim Rocks... Victory of Death," continuing the friendly rivalry that had been building for weeks before camp.
Just as it appeared the competition had concluded, Father Timothy surprised the audience by removing his cassock to reveal a matching flamingo-themed shirt featuring Father John's face incorporated into the flamingo design. The unexpected reveal brought a tremendous response from campers, counselors, clergy, and staff, with loud cheers and applause filling the gym. The winner was then determined in classic St. Tikhon's Summer Camp fashion as the audience cast their votes through cheers and applause. The response left little doubt. Father Timothy's coordinated flamingo ensemble received overwhelming support, earning him a decisive victory and a full year of well-deserved bragging rights.
The Diocesan Media Office of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania congratulates Father Timothy on his outstanding victory and looks forward to seeing whether Father John can reclaim the title when the annual competition returns next summer.
Photo credit: Elisabeth Parsells
Glory to God for all things!
Issued by the Diocesan Media Office
