More Than 120 Youth Take Part In Annual Acyo Fall Retreat

The Annual ACYO Fall Retreat, held from October 11–13, 2025, at the Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian Camp in Dunlap, California, brought together over 120 young members of the Armenian Church Youth Organization (ACYO) from parishes across the Western Diocese. Organized by the ACYO Central Council of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, the much-anticipated retreat offered participants an opportunity to strengthen their faith, deepen friendships, and reflect on their spiritual journey in a serene and uplifting environment.

The weekend began with joyful reunions and introductions as campers arrived Friday evening. Following a lively icebreaker session, participants enjoyed an engaging campfire discussion led by clergy members Fr. Avedis Abovian, Fr. Mesrop Ash, Fr. Yeghishe Ksachikyan, Fr. Mardiros Chevian, and Dn. Vartan Zargarian, who opened the retreat with a thought-provoking question about faith and free will. The night continued with fellowship and music, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching weekend.

Saturday’s program combined worship, Bible study, and meaningful discussions with recreational activities and fellowship. Clergy-led sessions focused on Christian mission, the sacraments, and personal faith development, while hands-on activities included nshkhar (communion bread) making, lakeside recreation, and group discussions by age and gender. The day concluded with an evening service and reflection, fostering a deep sense of unity and gratitude among participants.

On Sunday morning, the retreat culminated with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, officiated by Fr. Mesrop Ash and assisted by clergy, deacons, and youth altar servers. The liturgy was followed by a group photo and heartfelt closing remarks. The Central Council expressed deep appreciation to the clergy, volunteers, kitchen staff, and generous donors whose dedication ensured the success of the weekend.

As the participants departed the campgrounds, their hearts were filled with renewed faith, lasting friendships, and the joy of belonging to a spiritual family. The ACYO Central Council and the Western Diocese extend their gratitude to all who contributed to this memorable retreat and pray that the youth continue to carry the light of Christ into their daily lives and communities.

Special thanks to Jack Crowley and his family for donating boxes of grapes to enjoy during the weekend.

Thank you to all of our volunteers, staff, and speakers throughout the weekend:

Clergy:

Fr. Avedis Abovian

Fr. Mesrop Ash

Fr. Mardiros Chevian

Fr. Yeghishe Ksachikyan

Dn. Vartan Zargarian

Dn. Andy Ylitalo

Central Council Members:

Candace Karasarkisian - Chairwoman

Arthur Semionov - Vice-Chairman

Anna Sargsyan - Treasurer

Sarah Koloyian - Recording Secretary

Nareh Abovian - Corresponding Secretary

Mary Iskenyan - Publicity Director

Daniel Koloyian - Advisor

Volunteers and Staff:

Victoria Amran - Chaperone/Discussion assistant

Yn. Armine Arakelian - Kitchen

Hunan Arshakian - Nightwatch

Edmondo Circelli - Chaperone

Hrachya Etimazian - Discussion assistant

Sarkis Etimazian - Chaperone/Kitchen

Simon Etimazian - Nightwatch/Outdoor Activities

Katrin Ghahramanian - Kitchen

Lucy Holovchenko - Kitchen

Osan Jarekian - Chaperone/Kitchen

Kyle Karasarkisian - Photographer

Nick Karasarkisian - Nightwatch/Outdoor Activities

Kaghtsrik Manukyan - Kitchen

Milena Mkrtchyan - Kitchen/Chaperone

Mari Potikyan - Medical Staff

Rafi Shaheenian - Nightwatch

Anahid Telfeyan - Chaperone/Discussion Assistant

Nune Torosyan - Kitchen

Sonny Vasquez - Lifeguard/Chaperone

We pray that those in attendance took something they can share back home and continue to spread the word of God. May God bless all of the participants and staff involved.