G.R.O.W. Ministry in recognition of its 15th Year Anniversary hosted the Daughters of the King of the Northeast (DKNE), an unforgettable three-day camp centered on faith, sisterhood, and spiritual renewal at the Holy Transfiguration Retreat Center. Every moment was intentionally planned to encourage women to draw closer to God while strengthening bonds with one another through worship, learning, and fellowship.
The retreat began on Friday with registration and check-in, as participants eagerly arrived with hearts prepared for a weekend of transformation. The evening opened with prayer in the chapel, followed by Presidential Address by H.G Zachariah Mor Nicholovos, welcome speech by Pincy Joy, secretary of G.R.O.W. Ministry, and introduction by the DKNE camp committee. This was followed by dinner where old friendships were renewed and new ones were formed. Around the bonfire, smores, songs, and sparklers along with laughter filled the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and unity. The excitement continued with Beast Games, bringing out teamwork, joy, and friendly competition before the day concluded with the peaceful tradition of Compline Prayer.
Saturday was filled with opportunities for both spiritual growth and fellowship. The day began with Lilio, morning prayer and then breakfast. The women then gathered for an interactive session followed by the first speaker session by the main speaker, Dr. Eugenia Constantinou. Dr. Constantinou delivered an engaging session, teaching the women about the powerful significance of the camp’s theme “Vessels of Purpose” in their lives taken from 2 Corinthians 4:7. She explained the importance of Christ’s calling of women apostles and disciples in an age where it was uncommon. She taught that purpose is ultimately found in our identity rooted in Christ and not in what the world believes we are. In the morning, women broke up into breakout sessions which they discussed on real life scenarios. The groups were separated by using names of vessels from the Bible (ark, tabernacle, chalice, paten, censor, pitcher, and temple).
Noon prayer was conducted, captured lasting memories with a group photo, and shared lunch together. The afternoon featured engaging Beast Games in the recently renovated gym where the groups had to run a series of games. Simultaneously, a clay activity was held in the library shaping a mold of clay into an ornament. We continued the day with another inspiring speaker session, and an interactive question-and-answer discussion that encouraged meaningful conversations. The evening concluded with a beautiful Gala Dinner, celebrating God’s faithfulness and the strength of the ministry, followed by evening and Compline prayers.
On Sunday morning, the retreat culminated with Morning Prayer and the Holy Qurbana, reminding everyone that Christ remains at the center of their journey. The closing ceremony celebrated the blessings of the weekend, the lessons learned, and the renewed commitment of each woman to serve as a vessel of God’s purpose. H.G. Zachariah Mor Nicholovas in his closing remarks encouraged many ladies to come forward to serve. Rev. Fr. Vijay Thomas, spiritual advisor of G.R.O.W. Ministry, shared insightful remarks on how women can make an impact in our diocese. Brunch and check-out provided one final opportunity to embrace one another, exchange words of encouragement, and depart with hearts full of gratitude.From moments of worship to joyful fellowship, meaningful teaching, and shared experiences, the retreat reflected the beauty of women growing together in Christ. As each participant returned home, she carried not only cherished memories but also a renewed sense of purpose, strengthened faith, and the reminder that she is called to be a Daughter of the King, equipped to shine God’s light wherever He leads.
May the seeds planted throughout these three days continue to bear fruit for years to come.