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Spreading Christmas Cheer in July?
The days fly by, the hours melt together, and activities are getting more immersive while the competition is getting more intense. Every day continues to bring new adventures, stronger friendships, and memories that will last long after camp comes to an end. Watching camp be halfway done already is both a blessing and a sadness, as we prepare for more fun, exciting activities, but having to leave the excitement of introducing them behind.
Our razvedchiki and razvedchitsi had a health-themed varka, where cabins once again worked together to build fires, cook their meals, and put their teamwork to the test. Campers would be selected randomly to be put into our “quarantine” station, forcing them to drop their sticks and let the nachalstvo just be a distraction from getting back to their respective fire pits, while the cabin leaders had to boil their water twice do to the first bucket being “contaminated”. This theme was presented as a precaution of safety in the real world, while also having extreme fun! Nachalstvo brought out small water guns to cool the kids off while claiming they were “disinfecting” them, and everyone had a good time!
Another fan-favorite activity was trivoga, where campers had to think quickly, stay alert, and work together under pressure. The activity kept everyone on their toes and reminded us how important it is to trust one another and stay calm, even in the most unexpected situations. Especially when our “emergency situations” is just silly themes of cavemen times and the renaissance painting era.
Once again, we hit the ground with kiim, and once again, the cabins got a good laugh out of it when they forgot they needed to be silent during this activity. Nachalstvo decided to throw them off originally with a fake kiim, showing just items on a table they had to memorize then write down, and then later that night we presented them with the real deal, while many were annoyed with the nachalstvo for throwing them off, they were quite pleased with the video the nachalstvo made and want to make their own to show their parents!
We have also finished our last day of tri pera! For those not sure of what that is, it is a badge of the three feathers, and each feather represents a different day. First day, the campers must not speak for 24 hours, only available to use their voice when singing our march and prayers, or if answering questions in our Law of God classes. The second day is not eating, drinking only water for an entire day, which everyone passed with ease! The last day is just a fun, big sleepover in the woods with nachalstvo supervision. The counselors made a big fire, and the campers that made it to the third day were surprised with smore’s, hotdogs, and more! Everyone that had passed came back in the morning to our regular activities with a big smile on their face and new, fond memories to cherish for years to come.
Campers had the amazing opportunity this week to participate in our mile swim! We had lifeguards in and around the water counting laps, playing music, and conversing with the swimmers on a beautiful sunny day. Kids swam many laps back and forth of our Lost Lake to earn a swimming badge to put on their uniforms by the end of camp, and developing a new music taste after listening to the same four songs over and over again!
As we are nearing Vladimirovo weekend, the campers have begun their practice for the program we put on! There will be dancing and singing, as well as an arts & crafts show and tell, and possible auctioning for the art pieces your kids have made. We have Luda Emerson and Alisa Beyzin, one of our volunteers and our very own pod-nachalnitsa, leading our arts and crafts for the camp and they are doing an excellent job at it; providing historical meanings to art designs, cultural understandings, and even telling everyone how different colors work together to create their own stories in paintings!
As expected, the campers miss the outside world. The kids and teens yearn for civilization, and the nachalstvo heard their sadness, and decided to bring them joy — everyone was surprised with a makeshift Taco Bell dinner! After several busy days filled with activities, the unexpected meal was a huge hit. The entire camp got to choose what they wanted in their taco shells, and of course, we provided them with the world-favorite side of nacho fries. All the kids were so glad, getting to be immersed in the experience of a semi-real Taco Bell while nachalstvo dressed up and acted like regular workers there while interacting with the children!
We are so grateful for another amazing week at ORPR Camp. We would like to thank all of our parents and volunteers who made all of this possible and let no one forget the faces behind the joy brought to the children.
Stick around to see a surprise in the future that the kids made for you!
Let’s Unpack!
It's hard to believe we've already been at camp for over a week! The days have been filled with laughter, new friendships, and so many unforgettable memories. From exciting competitions to time spent learning and growing together, it has been an amazing start to the 2026 session.
Campers jumped right into some of our favorite ORPR traditions, including varka, where cabins worked together to build fires and cook soup. It was wonderful to see everyone encouraging one another and working as a team, while having a garlic bread twist thrown their way.
We also took on beg, a camp favorite that challenged cabins to navigate the woods quietly with the signs we place for them, complete activities, and work together throughout the day. Campers gave it their all and had a great time along the way while meeting surprise guests along their trail!
Another highlight was kiim, where campers put their memory and observation skills to the test. There were plenty of laughs when we integrated the modern world into our activity, making them forget that regardless, you must still be silent during the 2 minute video we had shown them.
With the summer heat in full swing, our trip to the water park was the perfect way to cool off. We had our volleyball court set up in the back, kids (and even nachalstvo) jumping off the diving board, and snacks to get everyone’s energy up and going!
The fun continued with our carnival, filled with inflatable games, water slides, and snow cones! It was a great day that brought the whole camp together to unwind and just be themselves.
Of course, camp is about more than just our traditional activities. Each day, campers continue to learn about their Orthodox faith, history, and culture through lessons and discussions led by our weekly priests, helping them grow in both knowledge and faith while building lasting friendships.
We are so thankful for this wonderful start to the session and can't wait to see what the rest of camp has to offer!
Guess Who’s Back?
Before we get into the beginning of our exciting 2026 camp session, let’s take a look at the people who helped make all of this possible!
Our nachalstvo, zvenaviye, pomoshniki, and volunteers all came together earlier in the week to set up our camp to be beautiful, fun, and safe! We all worked as one to set up the beach, clean up the stolovaya, and ensure we have all the necessary equipment we needed for this year. After finalizing the essential details of our campgrounds, the leadership group went on a fun team-bonding trip to Urban Air Trampoline Park where the kids got to grow connections with one another!
The following morning was the first day of camp! Parents brought their kids and helped them unpack and settle into their cabins, meet the leaders, and join the entire camp in church to open up the session with a moleben to bless us with a good and safe year! Shortly after the church service, we held our first raising of the flags parade, then welcomed all the kids into camp after saying goodbye to their families. Each cabin was able to bond with new and returning campers, and get everyone excited for all of the upcoming activities!
To end the first night, we gave the camp a surprise fireworks display across the lake for the 4th of July holiday, which everyone enjoyed with a popsicle in hand!
All of our campers and leaders are so excited to begin this new session and see what it has in store for them! There are many fun activities planned out and so many more surprises to come! We are so blessed with the opportunity to provide a fun, safe, and memorable experience for everybody.
The Final Stretch
After a fun and meaningful weekend in Vladimirovo, where we celebrated our faith and culture through performances, campers got back into their regular daily activities. One big highlight was the Ball Dance. Everyone dressed up, danced, and had a great time; this year, we moved it outside by the barn, which made it feel extra special. Cabin leaders did a great job decorating and making the night feel magical for everyone!
We also ventured on our Big Hike (Bolshoi Pohod), traveling by bus to Rock Cut Park. Campers completed an impressive 10-mile hike, while select groups pushed themselves even further with 16 and 30 mile trails! The scenic trails offered a refreshing change of pace and a chance to enjoy nature beyond the campgrounds.
Later that night, counselors surprised everyone with a Portillo’s-themed dinner called “ORPRtillos.” Campers lined up like a drive-thru and got their food before eating outside with friends. It was a fun and relaxing way to end the day. There's still more to look forward to in our final week, and everyone is excited!
Get Ready With Me!
ORPR camp is preparing for Vladimirovo Day with a mix of fun, learning, and spiritual activities. Campers are rehearsing songs, skits, and dances that they will perform during a special afternoon program to honor Saint Prince Vladimir. The camp is being decorated with icons, banners, and handmade crafts by campers that reflect the theme of the day. Throughout the week, campers have been attending lessons and discussions to learn more about who Saint Vladimir was and why he is important to the Orthodox faith. The goal is to help everyone feel connected to their faith and to celebrate the day with respect and joy. While preparing for Vladimirovo Day, ORPR camp has also continued with its regular daily activities. Campers have still been taking part in morning prayers, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, and group games. Classes are running as usual, giving campers a good balance of learning, work, and fun. This way, the camp stays lively and focused, while still making sure the celebration of Vladimirovo Day is meaningful and well-prepared.
What About the Faith?
ORPR Camp is a youth organization rooted in the Russian Orthodox Christian faith. Its Orthodox faith practices are critical to camp life and are deeply traditional, focusing on:
Daily Prayer and Worship: Campers participate in regular prayer services, including morning and evening prayers, and attend Divine Liturgies in our St. Vladimir Church.
Sacraments and Fasting: The camp upholds Orthodox sacramental life; especially Confession and Holy Communion, and observes traditional fasting periods.
Religious Education: Campers receive instruction in Orthodox theology, scripture, and saints' lives, emphasizing living a moral life according to the teachings of the Church.
Cultural Traditions: The camp integrates Russian Orthodox customs and heritage, reinforcing the connection between faith and cultural identity.
In the following video, Father Leonti and Seminarian Johnathan Rose explain the use of the Orthodox Faith at ORPR Camp. The camp seeks to nurture Orthodox Christian values and spirituality among youth in a community that combines faith, discipline, and Russian cultural heritage.
The Inside Scoop!
At ORPR Camp, each day is dedicated to a balance between spiritual growth, cultural learning, and the outdoors. Mornings begin with prayers and insightful lessons on Russian Orthodox traditions, language, and history. Later on, campers go into outdoor activities—hiking, swimming, and team sports. They are offered a mix of creative activities like arts and crafts and collaborative challenges such as scavenger hunts. Evenings bring everyone together around a campfire for songs, reflection, and bonding. Throughout it all, the camp fosters leadership, responsibility, and a strong sense of community.
The video created will showcase campers sharing their favorite parts of ORPR Camp. Each child reflects on what makes the experience special to them; whether it's the lake, fun dances, or the friendships they've formed. Through their stories, you can get a glimpse of the camp’s impact and the unique moments that make it memorable.
Marching Right In!
The first week is a mix of settling in and making friends, but as we move forward, we learn it is a crucial part in shaping our approach for what comes next. Starting off with opening day on Saturday, leaders welcomed their kids with open arms and smiling faces, and introducing them to the camp. We got to know each other with a fun icebreaker activity, learned safety drills, and ended our first exciting day with a movie night.
After the blessing of camp, we held костёр, where every cabin participated in making skits that were entertaining and lively, with occasional communal singing of classic Russian songs.
In just under a week, we’ve managed to pack in so many fun activities and unforgettable moments. It’s been a whirlwind of excitement, and we’ve already accomplished so much. The best part? This is only the beginning, and there’s so much more to look forward to in the days ahead. The adventure is just getting started, and everyone is ready.
Looking Back at Week #4
On Monday, we had the big hike. The camp walked an entire 14 joyous miles together. After the first half, we rested and ate delicious sandwiches that the volunteers prepared for us. Afterwards the campers were driven on a surprise trip to Megz Country Cheese Inc, a local ice-cream parlor in Davis, IL. The selection of ice cream was mind boggling and everyone enjoyed their cold tasty treats. Afterwards, the campers were given the opportunity to walk an extra 5 miles. The whole camp was excited to receive a hiking badge on the last day of camp for their hard work.
For Varka this week, there was a breakfast twist. This time, the cabins had to prepare a breakfast dish along with their soups. The counselors set up a table with ingredients and the cabins took what they needed. The dishes were amazing! Sausages, omelets, and other creative dishes were prepared. The soups were delicious as well, all the experience gained throughout the month allowed the cabins to make their best soups yet!
One highlight of this week was an activity called “Judgement Day” where campers were given silly judgements by the nachalstvo which they had to fulfill on the next day. The campers were giggling at the silliness of the event as they anticipated their names being called up next. This is the one event where each camper had something highlighted about them that would bring out their inner goofiness!
Let’s not forget the epic “loud raid” that happened this week, where the boys camp and the girls camp had a massive shaving cream fight in each camp. Spirits were high as each camp was working together to try and outsmart the opposite camp in their raid tactics that they were using. In the aftermath of the raid, the campers were all caked in shaving cream as they walked back to their respective camps.
On Friday, the winning cabins were announced and taken to town to enjoy the evening away from camp. They went bowling, had fresh oven baked pizza and ice-cream. That night, the campers had fun at the final dance. Although they were sad to say goodbye to their friends, they enjoyed dancing the night away in the barn. The memories they had here at camp will be with them forever.
As the flags lowered that Saturday evening, the campers sang the “Preobrazhensky March” one last time. The campers stood there respectively admiring the last parade of the year. Campers were awarded badges for their hard work and efforts by Archbishop Peter and the nachalnitsa for the week. As the camp marched off the peninsula and the last stroi was dismissed, everyone took a group photo, concluding the 57th annual camp session. There were tears and hugs as everyone begun to leave. The gates once again stood there symbolizing the barrier of camp and the outside world. The memories made here for the four weeks will be taken back and remembered for a lifetime. Until next year, the gates will stand and guard our precious camp.
