The Diocese
Posted: 10/14/2026
From October 9–11, 2026, the ACYO-WD Central Council hosted its Fall Retreat at Hye Camp in Dunlap, California, welcoming more than 70 participants for a weekend of spiritual reflection, fellowship, and growth under the theme “Radical Love: Repentance & Replacing Our Wrongs.”
The weekend opened Friday with introductions, icebreakers, and a campfire gathering featuring a question-and-answer session with the Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian.
Saturday’s program focused on repentance and spiritual transformation through age- and gender-based group discussions. Led by Fr. Mesrop Ash, the first session encouraged participants to recognize their shortcomings and identify intentional steps toward growth in their Christian lives. The second session, led by Fr. Avedis Abovian, explored the roots of sinful behaviors, including anger and gossip, and ways to replace them with constructive, Christ-centered virtues.
Between sessions, participants enjoyed volleyball and basketball tournaments, fishing, traditional Armenian dancing, and fellowship. Saturday evening concluded with Jamergutyun (Evening Prayer) and a candlelight service accompanied by the singing of sharakans, the sacred hymns of the Armenian Church.
The retreat concluded Sunday with Divine Liturgy celebrated by Fr. Mesrop Ash, followed by a meal prepared by the camp’s dedicated kitchen volunteers.
Through prayer, honest reflection, and fellowship, the retreat encouraged young people to deepen their faith, strengthen their bonds within the ACYO-WD family, and embrace the transformative power of radical love in their daily lives.
