First Family Winter Camp Was Enjoyed by All
More than 35 families participated in the first Family Winter Camp program during the last weekend in February at the St. Methodios Faith & Heritage Center. His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios was pleased that this new program was filled to capacity in its first year. Participants enjoyed various discussions, activities, fellowship, and the exceptional facility which is located in the quaint little town of Contoocook in the granite state, just a short hour and a half drive from Boston.
Families that participated in this program can be considered “pioneers”; they participated in the first ever family camp at the Faith & Heritage Center and they were also the first group from the Metropolis of Boston to stay in the newly completed Retreat House on the magnificent waterfront of the largest lake in the property. The weekend featured spiritual growth and learning as well as good old fashion family fun. The key-note speaker was Dr. Phillip Mamalakis, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. Dr. Mamalakis also led sessions for parents that focused on the Orthodox tradition of image and likeness in family and parenting.
This first ever family camp was embraced by the town of Contoocook as well, through two special events on Saturday. Families were invited by the local community to attend an ice fishing derby and scholarship fundraising event that took place on the Faith & Heritage beach, and enjoyed a delicious spaghetti dinner later in the evening which was prepared and served by the families of the local snow mobile club.
Other highlights of the Family Winter Camp Program included the family snow sculpting contest, and a bonfire complete with campfire songs that were led by a mix of both staff and the youngest campers. This weekend program enabled parents and children to enjoy fellowship with each other, and to make new friends with families in the Metropolis.
His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios has announced that the Faith & Heritage Center is planning a family camp during the first session of the summer camping program. Metropolitan Methodios hopes that this unique ministry will continue to grow and reach out to the many families throughout the Metropolis.
