(By Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian, Parish Priest of St. James Armenian Church)

Each year, I look forward to spending a couple of days at the Western Diocese’s Hye Camp in Fresno County—a place that holds a special place in my heart, especially during the week when many of our St. James Armenian Church children, youth, and families attend. For me, it’s not merely a visit. It is a pilgrimage of love, faith, and fellowship that renews the spirit.

This year, I attended Week 2 of camp, nestled in the serene Dunlap mountains of Fresno County. From the moment I arrived, I felt the sacred joy that fills this holy ground—where nature, prayer, and community come together to nurture the hearts of over 600 young Armenian souls throughout the summer.

Week 2 was particularly meaningful because many of the campers, counselors, and leaders were from our beloved St. James parish. I was inspired and overjoyed to serve among them as a priest and spiritual father.

One of the greatest blessings this week was serving alongside Fr. Mesrop Ash, who was the chaplain for the week. Fr. Mesrop’s presence is always a gift. Born and raised in our St. James community, he once sat at these same picnic tables as a camper, attended our Sunday School and ACYO, and was inspired by the devotion of his parents, who served our church for decades. Today, as Parish Priest of St. John Armenian Church in San Francisco, he continues to give back—taking a week away from his own parish to guide and mentor our youth at camp. In addition to his chaplaincy, Fr. Mesrop also plays an integral role year-round, serving faithfully on the Hye Camp Board of Trustees and Camp Committee, helping shape the camp’s curriculum with deep respect for our faith, history, and culture.

I was also deeply moved by the leadership of Frankie Chelebian, who directed Week 2 with wisdom and energy. Like Fr. Mesrop, Frankie grew up at St. James—nurtured by our Sunday School and ACYO, alongside his brothers Peter and Joe, who also served as counselors. Their dedication reflects the love and faith instilled in them by their mother, Gail Chelebian—a pillar of our parish and Sunday School for over two decades. Gail was also present at camp, serving as a staff member, offering her warm smile and comforting presence to all who entered the Camp Office. Her service has shaped generations of children, including her own family members, who continue to lead by example.

I also want to extend heartfelt thanks to Lauren Diramerian, the Summer Camp Executive Director of the Western Diocese, whose exemplary dedication and tireless commitment have helped make Hye Camp the great success that it is. Working closely with the Camp Committee and the Board of Trustees, Lauren brings deep care and professionalism to every aspect of camp life—from planning and logistics to curriculum and safety. Her leadership ensures that every camper receives the full spiritual and cultural experience that defines Hye Camp.

It was a joy to witness so many families from St. James pouring their hearts into this ministry. Beth Gregorian, Gail’s younger sister, served as a staff member alongside her—continuing a legacy of faith in action and family service. I was equally uplifted by Chris and Lena Adishian, active members of our Sunday School Parent Board, who volunteered as staff members while their children, Mark and Talar, participated as campers. Their family has long supported our church picnics and youth programs, and it was heartening to see them offer their time and love to Hye Camp.

Another shining example was Michael Seraydarian, a former Sunday School student who returned as a staff member, inspired by his devoted parents, Mark and Janice Seraydarian, who both taught at St. James for over a decade. Their impact is immeasurable—and now their son carries the torch.

I also had the pleasure of seeing the energetic granddaughters of our dear Mr. Robert Barsam, whose dedication to our parish is matched by the enthusiasm and participation of his descendants.

I would be remiss if I did not also offer heartfelt thanks to our St. James Parish Council, and especially to our Chairman, Dn. Eric Nikssarian, for his continued support of Hye Camp and our youth ministries. Deacon Eric, who served as the Hye Camp Director last year, continues to be a devoted leader, both within our parish and across diocesan programs. I also thank his wife, Sofia Nikssarian, for her support and shared commitment to Hye Camp. 

Hye Camp is more than just a summer retreat. It is a sacred mission of the Western Diocese under the spiritual leadership of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, our beloved Primate. His Eminence reminds us that this camp is not only a place for fun and fellowship, but a spiritual journey—an opportunity for each child to “walk with God.”

What brings me the most joy is knowing that the seeds we plant at Hye Camp will continue to grow for years to come. When I look at campers I see the future leaders of our Church. These young hearts are being formed in love, faith, and identity. They are already learning what it means to serve, to belong, and to lead.

And to all the campers reading this: You are the future. One day, you may be the counselor, the director, the priest, or the teacher. The Church needs you—and we believe in you.

As we celebrate the fruits of this year’s camp, we also look ahead with excitement to a historic milestone: the 60th Anniversary of Hye Camp. I invite all parishioners, families, and friends to support the upcoming Gala Celebration on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at St. Gregory Armenian Church in Pasadena. It will be an evening of joyful remembrance, honoring six decades of spiritual growth, community building, and leadership development. Let us come together to sustain this beautiful ministry for future generations.

I offer my deepest thanks to all who make Hye Camp possible: the clergy, board members, counselors, parents, cooks, nurses, and volunteers who give of themselves so selflessly. Your work echoes into eternity. My prayer is that we continue to support this camp with our prayers, time, and resources.

I encourage all families: Send your children to Hye Camp. Let them experience the joy of faith in action. Let them know they are loved—by God, by the Church, and by their Armenian family.

May our Lord Jesus Christ continue to bless the mission of Hye Camp, and may the spirit of unity, love, and faith grow stronger with every passing summer.