From Diocese of Sourozh

Bishop Elisey of Sourozh visits the Diocesan Children's Camp

1st August 2008

The Diocesan children's summer camp which is dedicated to St Seraphim of Sarov took place this year as usual between 28th of July and 8th August. After six happy years on the North Norfolk coast, the camp had to seek a new home following the sale of the campsite. Fortunately, a new suitable site was found in Gloucestershire, at the edge of the Forest of Dean, and a very sucessful camp was held there, attended by some forty children aged between 8 and 17. Fr Stephen and Anna Platt from the Oxford Parish of St Nicholas led a team of helpers and leaders who coordinated a wide range of activities.

In addition to morning and evening prayers each day, the children participated in lessons in religious instruction, led by Fr Stephen and Deacon Matthew Steenberg. There were also many opportunities for sports, games, campfires, music, drama and arts and crafts, such as candle- and prosphora- making. There were outings to the local swimming pool, a 'big walk' - a hike of some twelve miles, a singing contest, the annual 'Camp Olympics' and a medieval theme day.

On August 1st, the feast of St Seraphim, the camp was visited by Bishop Elisey of Sourozh, accompanied by Deacon Sergei Kharitonov of the London Cathedral. Vladyka Elisey was met at the gates of the camp with the traditional bread and salt and escorted to the camp chapel where he presided at the Divine Liturgy. At the conclusion of the service, the Bishop greeted those present. In reply, Fr Stephen thanked Bishop Elisey for this, his first visit to St Seraphim's Camp and presented him with a commemorative platter which had been decorated and signed by the children.

After a common breakfast, Bishop Elisey was given a tour of the campsite and had the opportunity to meet the campers face-to-face.