Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral hosted a heartwarming Children’s Mini-Retreat on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 1 pm to 5 pm, bringing together young souls for an afternoon of spiritual enrichment and creative exploration. The event, tailored specifically for children aged 5 to 13 (Kindergarten through 8th grade), was a resounding success thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the exceptional organizational efforts of Anastasija Iglendza and Milijana Arsenic.
The mini-retreat, held at the cathedral premises, was filled with a diverse array of engaging activities designed to nurture the participants’ faith while providing opportunities for fun and fellowship. Children had the chance to explore various aspects of their Orthodox faith through interactive sessions, storytelling, and age-appropriate discussions.
Anastasija Iglendza and Milijana Arsenic, the chief organizers of the event, played pivotal roles in ensuring its success. Their meticulous planning and tireless dedication brought together a program that seamlessly combined spiritual enrichment with enjoyable activities. Their commitment to fostering a welcoming and nurturing environment for young participants was evident throughout the day.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and engagement of the children who attended our mini-retreat,” said Anastasija Iglenda. “It’s incredibly rewarding to provide them with opportunities to deepen their understanding of our faith while having fun and making new friends.”
Milijana Arsenic echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude to all volunteers who contributed to making the event memorable. “We are immensely thankful to all volunteers who generously offered their time and support. Their dedication was instrumental in creating a positive experience for the children.”
The Children’s Mini-Retreat featured a variety of activities tailored to different age groups, ensuring that every child had a meaningful and enjoyable experience. From arts and crafts to group games and storytelling sessions, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
“We wanted to create an event that would not only educate children about their faith but also foster a sense of community and belonging,” explained Milijana Arsenic. “Seeing the smiles on their faces and hearing their laughter throughout the day was truly rewarding.”
The highlight of the mini-retreat was the conclusion with the Vespers service on the eve of Palm Sunday, where children participated in a procession around the cathedral, wearing palm branches. This traditional celebration added a meaningful and joyous touch to the event, allowing children to engage with their faith in a tangible and memorable way.
The Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral extends its heartfelt appreciation to all volunteers and especially recognizes Anastasija Iglendza and Milijana Arsenic for their outstanding leadership and dedication in organizing this memorable event. Their passion for nurturing young souls and strengthening the community has left a lasting impact on all who attended.
As the afternoon came to a close, participants left the mini-retreat with cherished memories, strengthened bonds, and a deeper connection to their faith. The success of this event reaffirms the cathedral’s commitment to providing enriching experiences for children and families within the community.
