Each summer, Ukrainian Park comes alive as young campers gather on the scenic shores of Lake Winnipeg, turning this peaceful retreat into a vibrant hub of joy, faith, and connection.

In the first week of July, over 50 elementary-aged children and 25 dedicated staff from across Manitoba came together to grow in faith and friendship—praying hard, playing hard, and discovering more about themselves and each other. The second week welcomed 60 campers aged 11 to 16, who unplugged from their devices and immersed themselves in outdoor adventures, spiritual reflection, and authentic community.

This is the Archeparchy of Winnipeg’s Ukrainian Park Catholic Children’s Camp—and truly, there’s no place we’d rather be.

A Summer of Hope

This year’s theme, “Hope,” was inspired by the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, celebrated throughout the Catholic Church. During catechism, campers reflected on the great plans God has for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11) and what it means to be anchored in hope through life’s storms (Hebrews 6:19).

Both weeks, a team from the Blessed Vasyl Velychkovsky Shrine led us on a spiritual pilgrimage through Blessed Vasyl’s inspiring life. Each Wednesday, we were blessed to welcome Metropolitan Lawrence Huculak and Archbishop Stefan Soroka for Divine Liturgy and lunch. On Thursdays, we gathered for Vespers, where a record number of campers were moved to take part in the Sacrament of Confession. 

A heartfelt thank you to the 11 clergy members who visited us this summer—your presence made these sacred moments possible.

Life at Camp: Joy in Motion

Daily life at camp follows a joyful, purposeful rhythm. Campers rotate through art, sports, catechism, liturgical services, delicious meals, beach time, and free time—activities that inspire friendship and personal growth.

Thanks to the generous support of the Ukrainian Catholic Foundation, we were able to purchase bikes, paddle boards, a giant water trampoline, and a shipping container for storage. These new additions were instant favourites and took daily adventure to a whole new level!

Each evening, the entire camp came together for special large-group activities: hiking, laser tag, the food chain game, beach Olympics, and one of the best Zabavas to date. As night fell, we gathered around the campfire for songs, skits, games, snacks, and prayer—closing each day in gratitude, ready to do it all again.

Where Cultures Meet and Faith Comes Alive

Our camp uniquely celebrates the meeting of Ukrainian and Canadian culture. This year, we honoured the unshakable spirit of Ukraine through traditional dance, clay sculpting, copper tooling, and music. But more importantly, we celebrated the heart and soul of Ukraine by immersing ourselves in the richness of the Ukrainian Catholic faith.

Throughout both weeks, campers and staff shared real encounters with God—moments that affirmed their identity as beloved children of God and strengthened their resolve to become the most authentic versions of themselves.

The Moments That Make Camp

Months of planning go into making camp a reality—but the real magic happens in the small, spontaneous moments. They look different for each courageous camper and every incredible staff member, but they are what make camp unforgettable.

Here are a few of mine:

• A young camper taking a newcomer by the hand, making her feel instantly at home.
• A heartfelt prayer that transformed a homesick boy into a carefree kid.
• Counselors making sure no one ever feels left out—not even at the swings.
• A legendary Zabava-Promposal that made one camper feel truly seen.
• An invitation to search for the mysteries of the Manipogo together.
• Hugs from grateful parents who believe in what this experience gives their children.
• And a thousand moments with the best team I’ve ever had the joy of working with—especially my capable assistant directors and all-in parent volunteers.

The equipment is packed away, and everyone has returned home—but the grace we experienced at camp doesn’t stay behind with the forgotten towels and water bottles. It’s something we carry forward in our hearts and in our lives, an anchor of hope. 

Submitted by Sophia Korban, Summer Camp director