An Invigorating TCI Retreat is Held in Partnership with Metropolis of Boston Camp
Monday, December 01, 2025Contoocook, NH
Over the weekend of October 31–November 2, 2025, parish leaders from across New England gathered at the Saint Methodios Faith and Heritage Center, the home of the Metropolis of Boston Camp, for the latest Thriving Congregations Initiative (TCI) Retreat for parish leaders. The event, held with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, brought together representatives from twenty-five parishes for a weekend of prayer, reflection, and practical learning on how to build thriving, Christ-centered communities.
Guided by a team of Metropolis clergy, lay leaders, and camp staff, participants immersed themselves in the camp’s unique rhythm of worship, learning, and fellowship. They joined in prayer and divine services, culminating in the celebration of Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. Many of the spiritual components were led by Fr. Theodore Barbas, Chancellor of the Metropolis and spiritual advisor to TCI. On Sunday, discussing the Gospel of the Rich Man and Lazarus, Fr. Ted invited everyone to reflect on what it means to love our neighbor as ourselves and to live the Liturgy with deeper attention and participation—something many experienced firsthand as participants joined the chant stand throughout the weekend.
The retreat’s theme, bringing the relational and experiential life of camp back to the parish, was embodied in every aspect of the program. Orthodox Life discussions, parish renewal workshops, small-group conversations, and quiet “Alone with God” times helped participants reconnect their leadership with their spiritual life. The weekend’s flow reflected the camp experience that has shaped generations of young people: time in prayer, time in nature, and time together. As one participant shared, “Being here helped me have a pause from everyday life and listen to God again.”
The Metropolis of Boston Camp’s young adult staff served as the backbone of the weekend, demonstrating the same joyful ministry that makes the camp such a formative place for youth. Their witness inspired an impromptu young adult panel, where staff shared reflections on faith, service, and leadership. Participants described being moved by the depth and maturity of the camp’s young adults—realizing anew that the Church’s future leaders are already serving with dedication and love today.
In addition to Fr. Ted, the retreat was supported by Panos Coufos, Alex Cooley, Don Khouri, Elaina Berry, Fr. Andrew Otto, and Fr. Anthony Tandilyan. Together they facilitated sessions that connected spiritual life to the practical realities of parish renewal, encouraging leaders to integrate prayer, formation, and service more deeply into their communities.
As participants departed, many spoke of concrete steps they would take in their parishes—from hosting “Orthodox Life” discussions and inter-parish youth events to creating time for personal prayer and reflection. “Every part of this retreat was impactful,” one attendee wrote. “There is so much to bring back to my parish.”
The weekend closed with a sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. Participants left with fresh energy to serve, inspired by what can happen when the life of the Church—so powerfully lived at camp—is carried back into the parish. As one leader put it, “We came to learn about thriving parishes, and we found that the secret is right here: prayer, friendship, and love for Christ shared together.”