This year there were 29 participants at the Central Diocese Acolyte Retreat held at the Bishop Hodur Retreat and Recreation Center in Waymart, Pennsylvania.
Bishop John Mack gave a presentation and celebrated the Holy Mass for our altar servers on Wednesday.
There were five priests involved in the program: Fr. Joseph Cyman, Fr. Gregory Mludzik, Fr. Mariusz Zochowski, Fr. Andrew Bieganowski, and Fr. Zbigniew Dawid. Mr. Joe Kolonko served delicious meals. The children helped him in the kitchen cleaning the dishes and helping set up for meals.
We thank all for coming and spending a great time together at the beautiful location. The weather was gorgeous. The children and adults enjoyed swimming in the pool with the supervision of Andrew, our lifeguard. Because of the hot weather we experienced on Thursday and Friday, there was plenty of time for the pool. There were also outdoor games such as volleyball and basketball. After we hiked to Kin Lake, our acolytes enjoyed the playground and kayaked with adult supervision wearing life jackets.
During the retreat we had Holy Masses, prayer services, and a special Candlelight service. Fr. Andrew Bieganowski led the children in singing Christian songs. The bon-fire on Thursday was enjoyed until mosquitoes chased us away.
We welcomed visitors including Prime Bishop Emeritus Swantek with his wife, Fr. Carmen Bolock and some parents. Thank to all for sharing a great time!
