Spring Religious Camp “St. Apostle Andrew and St. John Cassian”

– three days of joy, faith, and friendship –

From March 1–4, 2026, children and youth from Romanian Orthodox communities in the Montreal, Ottawa, and Gatineau areas gathered at the Notre-Dame-de-la-Rouge Center in Grenville-sur-la-Rouge to participate in the 2026 Spring Religious Camp “St. Apostle Andrew and St. John Cassian.” For three days, participants experienced spiritual, educational, and recreational activities in a safe, friendly, and inspiring environment, strengthening both their faith and lasting friendships.

The spiritual coordinator of the camp was Fr. Grigorie Țăpuc, Protopresbyter for Eastern Canada. The camp coordinators — Mihaela Amohnoaie, Corina Goleac, Elena Ștefan, and Anca Coza — ensured the smooth organization of all activities and provided constant support to the participants.

The camp offered a diverse and carefully planned program that combined spiritual, educational, and recreational activities designed to strengthen the soul, mind, and body of the participants, with the main theme centered on the teachings related to Great Lent.

Activities included: catechesis through games – interactive lessons about Orthodox teachings that stimulated curiosity and participation; chess tournament – encouraging strategic thinking and fair play; craft workshops, egg decorating, and educational activities – developing creativity, patience, and cooperation; snow games – moments of joy and outdoor physical activity; campfire and storytelling evenings – time for relaxation, reflection, and sharing experiences; new friendships and memorable moments – the camp atmosphere encouraged meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences

Participants were guided by dedicated coordinators and volunteers who ensured a safe, organized, and joyful environment, supporting both the spiritual and recreational aspects of the program. Through these activities, children and youth learned the value of prayer, community, and responsibility, while also developing social, artistic, and athletic skills.

On the final day of the camp, the young participants attended the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, celebrated by His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian, together with Fr. Grigorie Țăpuc. The religious service was preceded by a short catechetical introduction by the bishop about the period of Great Lent, its meaning, and the particularities of the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.

At the end of the service, the hierarch encouraged the young participants to carry with them the joy and spiritual experience they lived during these days and to share it with their families and friends. Awards, diplomas, and participation medals were also presented to all participants in recognition of their involvement and enthusiasm.

The 2026 Spring Religious Camp was a true success — an unforgettable experience that brought joy, inspiration, and lasting memories to all participants. The event demonstrated the importance of organizing such camps for young people, offering them the opportunity to live their faith actively, discover their talents, and integrate more deeply into the Romanian Orthodox community in Canada.

The organizers expressed their warm gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the camp — coordinators, volunteers, parents, and all those who supported this beautiful experience of faith, friendship, and joy.