Greek Orthodox Christian Society: Annual Sunday School Retreat
With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, the Annual Sunday School Retreat took place from Tuesday 4th to Thursday 6th October 2022. Ninety-two (92) Sunday School students aged 10-12 years, and twenty-five (25) teachers from all across Sydney and Wollongong participated in this year’s Retreat.
What was experienced during these three days could only be described as countless blessings from God. The children took part in a range of activities, including canoeing, archery, dodgeball, play performances, and singing. Despite the sporadic poor weather, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the children nor the presence of Christ amongst the group.
The camp was centred around the theme of ‘The Neomartyrs’, in which the children learnt about the inspirational lives of the saints of our Church who martyred for Christ under the Ottoman occupation. Through this theme and the lessons given by the guest speakers, it was made clear that we all can imitate the Neomartyrs by taking courage and trying to live as true Christians.
On the last day, the joy of the camp culminated in the Divine Liturgy, which was served by Geronda Eusebios, Abbot of Pantanassa Monastery. In his sermon, Geronda Eusebios spoke about the most precious gem in the whole world, a jewel of immeasurable value that has been given to all of us and that no one except for ourselves can take away- our faith in Jesus Christ. Geronda Eusebios also conveyed the blessings and love of His Eminence, Archbishop Makarios, to all the children.
Ultimately, the joy and enthusiasm that was felt by both the students and teachers at this blessed camp leave us to glorify God for the immeasurable love He bestows on us.
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