The MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese hosted its annual Sabro High School Camp from July 28–31, 2026, at the Holy Transfiguration Retreat Center (HTRC) in Dalton, Pennsylvania. Centered on the theme "Level Up Your Faith," based on Romans 12:21—"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good"—the four-day camp brought together more than 100 participants, including high school students, clergy, and dedicated adult volunteers, for a spiritually enriching experience of worship, learning, and fellowship.
The camp officially commenced with prayer, placing Christ at the center of every aspect of the gathering. Participants were also blessed to receive greetings from His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, Metropolitan of the Northeast American Diocese, who conveyed his prayerful best wishes and prayers for a blessed Sabro Camp. His message encouraged the young people to take full advantage of the opportunity for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and growth in their Orthodox faith.
Throughout the week, the camp sought to challenge participants to deepen their relationship with Christ by embracing a life of faithful discipleship and spiritual growth. Attendees engaged in dynamic sessions, meaningful discussions, and opportunities for personal reflection that encouraged them to live out their Orthodox Christian faith with conviction and courage.
The keynote addresses were delivered by Rev. Dn. Mathew Varughese, the newly appointed General Secretary of the MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese, who inspired participants to pursue holiness by choosing Christ daily and overcoming the challenges of the world through the transforming power of the Gospel.
Interactive workshops were led by Rev. Dn. Akin Sunny and Seminarian Mathews Geevarghese (Denny), providing practical guidance and thoughtful discussions on living the Orthodox faith in today's world. Their sessions encouraged participants to strengthen their spiritual disciplines, cultivate authentic Christian friendships, and confidently witness Christ in their schools, homes, and communities.
At the heart of Sabro 2026 was a vibrant rhythm of prayer and communal life. The entire camp centered on worship, reflection, fellowship, and discussion, with participants gathering in prayer seven times each day through the rich liturgical tradition of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Daily Morning, Noon, and Evening Prayers, Bible study, personal reflection, and fellowship created an atmosphere in which campers encountered Christ more deeply while forming lasting friendships rooted in faith. Each evening ended with Shaina Namaskaram and the chanting of the Jesus Prayer, and silence, encouraging youngsters to incorporate silent prayer in their daily lives.
Participants were also blessed by the presence of Rev. Fr. Dr. Varghese M. Daniel, Diocesan Secretary of the Northeast American Diocese, who offered his encouragement and support for the ministry of the MGOCSM and the spiritual formation of the Diocese's youth.
The success of the camp was made possible through the dedicated leadership of its organizing team. The spiritual life of the camp was guided by Rev. Dn. Pradeep Hatcher, who served as Spiritual Advisor, while Shawn Mathew faithfully served as Senior Advisor. The camp was skillfully coordinated by Mikhail Josh and Asha Taranson, who served as Conveners, working alongside a dedicated committee, volunteers, and HTRC staff whose commitment ensured a meaningful and well-organized experience for every participant. The camp concluded on Friday, July 31, with the celebration of Holy Qurbana by Rev. Fr. Daniel Mathai, Vice President of the MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese.
The MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese expresses its sincere gratitude to all clergy, counselors, volunteers, parents, and organizers whose tireless dedication made Sabro High School Camp 2026 a tremendous success. Their commitment to nurturing the faith of the Diocese's young people helped create an environment where participants were encouraged to grow spiritually, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen their identity as members of the Body of Christ.
As participants returned home, they carried with them not only cherished memories and lifelong friendships, but also a renewed commitment to overcome evil with good and to continue growing in Christ, faithfully living out the words of Romans 12:21: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Sabro High School Camp is one of the many ways the MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese engages and nurtures the faith of young people throughout the Diocese. Through year-round ministries, retreats, conferences, campus ministry initiatives, service opportunities, and fellowship events, the MGOCSM remains committed to helping youth and young adults encounter Christ, grow in the life of the Church, and become faithful Orthodox Christian leaders in their parishes and communities.
To learn more about the ministry of the MGOCSM of the Northeast American Diocese, including upcoming retreats, conferences, campus ministry initiatives, and opportunities for young people to grow in the Orthodox faith, visit www.mgocsmne.org or follow @mgocsmne on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and updates.