The Metropolis of Boston Camp concludes its Separate...But United! Virtual Camp experience. Thanks to the amazing creativity and energy of the Staff Team Virtual Camp was a great success - they both engaged and entertained all of the participants. Over the two one-week long sessions MBC was able to welcome over 175 youth and young adults from throughout New England, New Jersey, Chicago, Maryland, New York and even from as far as Russia! The Virtual Camp program closely modeled a normal day at camp...bringing a sense of normalcy and familiarity to our campers. Every morning and evening, the Camp came together to offer prayers and hymns which we all know and love. The campers of our Metropolis participated in Orthodox Life Sessions during which they discussed topics that pertain to love, self control, prayer and joy - basic Christian themes that ignite thoughtful discussions and engaging questions.
One of the huge hits for our Virtual Camp program was our “MBC Survivor” series, in which staff competed in competitions to “outwit, outplay, and outlast” each other. The campers joined in the fun by rooting for their favorite competitor, and casting votes towards who they wanted to be eliminated.
Virtual Camp was certainly a new experience for all; however the words of our campers describe the experience best:
“A few nights ago, the pop girls were sitting in Devotional, doing icebreaker activities to break the silence. One of our counselors asked us, “Who are your role models in your life?”. We all sat there for a few minutes really thinking about who this person could be. After a long time passed, we all came to the conclusion that it isn’t just one single person; mine in particular was this entire camp because every single person I have met has something to offer and admire. MBC is full of positive loving role models that have welcomed me home for the past 10 years by making this place so welcoming and accepting. Although we couldn’t physically have camp this year, we were offered a new experience that changed the face of MBC. At first, I was a bit hesitant, but I’m glad I was proved wrong. The staff and leadership team that worked so hard to give us virtual MBC succeeded with flying colors. I can’t thank these people enough for all they do for us. Something I realized from this week is that our love and joy spreads everywhere, not only at the place we call home. Even though we may not be physically together at this time, we will ALWAYS be united spiritually. We have to continue this love and joy no matter where we are to spread the love and faith of us Orthodox Christians. Every single person connected to MBC has left a lasting impact in making the camp welcoming and loving. Coming into my last year as a camper, I want to say thank you so much to every single camper and staff for your joy and your wisdom. You have truly made me the person I am today. No matter what happens in this world. we will always be united.”
-Emma Nakuci, Pop Camper
“This was my last year at the Metropolis of Boston Camp, and although it was different than I would have imagined, this past week has been one my favorite and most memorable, not only due to the pandemic but because of the extraordinary way camp happened. I can truthfully say that I was not expecting virtual MBC to be anything like in-person camp, but the magnificent staff and all who contributed really made this “place” of MBC transform into a virtual setting. Fr. Dionysios’ words after liturgy will always stick with me, ‘This year was a year to show the true colors of this beautiful place; how the place “MBC” will always be there and will be a home away from home; this year was the year to show MBC’s impact on us in the real world, not just on the grounds of 329 Camp Merrimac Road’. Camp was phenomenal this year, and although it hurt at times to realize that this is the last time I’ll be a camper, the joy of MBC will remain with me.”
- Peter Dres, POP Camper
