Over 140 staff and campers gathered this year for the annual RMOYC. The camp was founded by Archpriest Joseph Hirsch of blessed memory, who was present at the camp and gave his last public talks before being “taken from us”: Memory Eternal! 11 parishes, from three jurisdictions and as many states make the annual pilgrimage to share in fellowship, teaching, discussion, and worship throughout the week. Fr. Lawrence Gaudreau taught twice a day from the Gospel of Mark; Mat. Elizabeth Powell, in addition to leading the choir for daily Matins and Vespers, gave hands-on instruction on the process of making, and symbolism of Prosphora; Frs. Barnabas and John, along with the many other dedicated and sacrificial staff, led their respective cabins through the many activities of the day, in addition to scheduled in-depth discussion on the day’s teachings. The teens of camp (over 60 in attendance) were treated to an incredible Ropes Challenge Course, which ended with a literal “leap of faith” – perhaps at no other time in camp was God’s name so fervently invoked for help and protection!
RMOYC has become a jewel of pan-Orthodox involvement in the Rocky Mountain region. It has facilitated strong bonds of friendship and “brotherhood” among the Orthodox children and youth of our area, and has spontaneously blossomed into other activities throughout the year.