Chaldean Youth Camp Update
The ropes course in action.
By Dominic Etta
Chaldean Youth Camp (CYC) is the summer camp that has been the pioneer in the diocese, taking place at Our Lady of the Fields Camp and Retreat Center in Brighton, and bringing our youth together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
The camp started back in 2014 with only a boys’ one-day camp and a girls’ one-day camp. It was run by our Seminarians at the time, as well as some volunteers. As the diocese has grown over the years, so did CYC; in fact, six camps have been added to host the 400 campers who now attend.
Michael Hickey is the new Executive Director of Our Lady of the Fields. He and the other program coordinators and directors make camp a great way for the youth of the community to get together and truly embrace Christ in a fun and meaningful way.
Making faith fun is something that CYC takes pride in. In fact, the mission statement is, “To be joyful in the active living of our Christian faith. Chaldean Youth Camp aims to foster fellowship in Christ and to unify the youth throughout the diocese through team building, fun, and good example.”
Being active is a huge factor of CYC. The campers will take part in both high and low ropes courses, canoeing and kayaking. Along with all of that, the camp also has a built-in Gaga ball pit, beach, basketball courts, sports areas, and multiple bonfire pits, as well as many other camp activities, including painting and other art projects.
Campers from all around the diocese are paired together in groups and take part in team-building exercises where they can learn about Jesus and have fun all in the same day. Activities incorporate the Bible and adoration, and campers attend Mass, fulfilling their Sunday obligation.
COVID-19 presented many challenges and barriers to the program. This has forced us to new capacities, which prompted us to come to individualized, creative solutions — outdoor lunches and new rules for games allowing for social distancing, among other adaptations.
Moreover, while I have mostly been in a leadership position and my role is someone the campers look up to, there is also much to learn from the young campers. Their child-like innocence and joy allows me to experience camp in an extraordinary way. I’m inspired by their positive, interactive, and radiant attitude.
Volunteers Dominic Etta, Joseph Kaji, Deanna Dikhow and Marian Maroki.
Dominic Etta is the CYC Program Coordinator. CYC is now accepting registration for campers in third through twelfth grade, as well as offering volunteer opportunities for volunteers who are 16 and older. For more information, visit: www.chaldeanyouthcamp.com.
Volunteers Dominic Etta, Joseph Kaji, Deanna Dikhow and Marian Maroki.
