Hannukah Christmas Camp for the Youth

The rhythm of the days was shaped by morning prayer, shared meals, creative activities, and moments of silence. Through letter writing, journaling, and artistic expression, participants were encouraged to reflect on their own faith journey and to listen attentively to what God might be speaking into their lives. These personal moments were balanced by lively group activities that fostered trust, joy, and a strong sense of community.

A central focus of the Kaytana was engaging with the biblical Christmas story by drawing close to its characters. Rather than remaining distant figures, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and others became companions in reflection. Through guided character work and creative workshops, the youth explored the hopes, fears, courage, and trust present in the Gospel narrative, allowing the mystery of the Incarnation to become tangible and personally meaningful.

Evenings brought the group together in a different way: through rehearsals and a festive performance, the joyful creation of truly amazing gingerbread houses built in small groups. One evening, the group gathered around a bonfire, listening to personal testimonies of faith that opened a space for trust, honesty, and deep attentiveness. Each day concluded with quiet personal night prayer and journaling - moments that allowed the experiences of the day to settle, helping faith and friendship grow side by side.

Highlights included the celebration of Holy Mass with Fr. Benny in Dalmanutha, directly on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Praying and celebrating the Eucharist in this Gospel landscape gave profound depth to the experience, connecting the Christmas message with the very places where Jesus himself walked and taught. The Kaytana culminated in the celebration of Holy Mass at the Church of the Multiplication, presided over by Fr. Piotr Zelazko. Celebrating the Eucharist at the place commemorating the multiplication of the loaves and fishes offered a profound moment of thanksgiving and trust. Rather than marking an end, this celebration became a farewell that sent the young people forth, invited to carry what they had lived during the Kaytana into the days of Christmas - ready to welcome the Savior attentively and with open hearts.

Acknowledgments:

Our heartfelt thanks go to Pater Josef, Paul, Susan, and Philip, for their generous hospitality at Beit Noah, which provided a welcoming and peaceful home for these days. We also extend sincere gratitude to the team - Danielle, Fr. Benny, Fr. Piotr Zelazko, and Monika - for their attentive care, dedication, and accompaniment, which shaped this Christmas Kaytana with depth, trust, and joy.

Special thanks to don Andrea Zolli for the fundraising and to all the donors who made this Kaytana possible.