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On May 2, the first organizational meeting for the 2025 annual St. Tikhon’s Children’s Bible Camp (to be held from July 27 to August 3) took place at St. Barbara Cathedral in Edmonton.
The meeting was led by the dean and rector of the cathedral, and the camp director, Archpriest Igor Kisil. It began with a joyful Paschal hymn: “Christ is Risen!”
Fr. Igor introduced new members of the team, shared a brief overview of the camp, and reminded everyone of its general structure and rules. The camp is beautifully located on the shore of Pigeon Lake, about 90 km from Edmonton, and welcomes children aged 7 to 16.
Important topics discussed included:
- camp regulations (such as the deposit, cleaning duties, and the ban on mobile phone use by children),
- camp layout and daily schedule,
- discipline and safety — key concerns addressed in detail by experienced counselors.
There was also a discussion about how to keep campers engaged during the afternoon hours, including suggestions for games, new (or long-forgotten) activities, and technical needs like a projector or a large-screen TV (at least 70 inches), as well as music equipment for karaoke.
This year’s camp theme is both rare and meaningful: “The Worship of the Orthodox Church.” Campers will learn about the liturgical cycles (daily, weekly, and yearly), and will even bake prosphora during hands-on sessions.
The camp reached a record number of participants last year — about 70 children — but continues to face a shortage of male staff. New team members will be helping especially with crafts and creative activities.
The conversation continued over tea and light refreshments, where many hopes were shared — including the return of the petting zoo, a visit from the wrestling coach, and possibly organizing boat rides on the lake this year.
The next meeting is planned for May 30th, at 7 pm, and will be held at St. Barbara Cathedral.