Saint Andrew's Camp and Religious Center here will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Saturday, August 18, 2007. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, will offer prayers of thanksgiving and bless the camp facilities and grounds. A couples retreat and alumni homecoming are scheduled for August 15-18.

Saint Andrew's Camp has spiritually nurtured well over 2,000 campers and counselors during its 49-year history. Many alumni now serve and have served as distinguished pastors, theologians, educators, monastics, choir directors, seminarians, and faithfully engaged Orthodox Christians in parishes. The names of former "campers" would be a good beginning for "Who's Who in the Orthodox Church in America" for the years 1954-1984. In the years following, the visibility of the camp diminished, but the work continued! Now it's time to rediscover this unparalleled opportunity for Christian growth, nurturance, and development that is available to the Diocese of Washington and New York -- and beyond -- at Saint Andrew's Camp. Anyone interested in working with youth and young adults would receive a "first-class" education and practicum by spending a season at the camp.

Situated on the shore of Lake Oneida in the town of Jewell NY, the camp has been -- and continually strives to be -- an unparalleled resource of the Diocese of Washington and New York for youth ministry programs. The summer camping program is designed and managed to provide children (beginning at age 7) and teens with a six-week camping experience in an Orthodox Christian community. Daily activities include worship services, religious education, nutritious meals/snacks, water activities, games, sports, arts-and-crafts, and a host of opportunities for fun and fellowship.

For many who have experienced the Saint Andrew's Camp experience, it is "time to come home!" There is work to do -- together -- to keep the flame burning.

Visit www.saintjohnorthodox.org/AnniversaryCelebration.pdf for complete details. For registration or more information e-mail saintandrewscamp@aol.com.