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The third annual Eparchial Family Camp was held in Cedar Lake, Indiana which was a site that was equal distance to most of the twelve State region of our Eparchy. Excited and committed families drove as long as 6 hours to attend a week built around an immersion in the sacred chant, cantor ministry and Liturgical life of the Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Church. The children even learned to sing chants with sign language.
Experts in Ruthenian Liturgical chant came as far away as Canada and California to instruct parents and children in the art of sacred music. Since the camp took place during the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, a full liturgical schedule was offered at the camp including an all-night vigil and procession with the burial shroud of the Mother of God. Each morning at the camp there were formal classes for adults and children. Afternoons were spent enjoying sports and recreation including boating and swimming on the beautiful Cedar lake. The days ended with singing and roasting smores around the bonfire.
The Family Camp tradition was begun 3 years ago by Fr. Lukas Mitro, pastor of Resurrection parish in Euclid, Ohio and it has grown rapidly. In fact this year's camp was filled to capacity. Plans have already been made for next year's Family Camp as this event is becoming one of the gems of the vibrant life in the Eparchy of Parma.
