Enchristos 2025, Sydney

A Camp for All Ages

Participants of all ages explored what it means to make space for Christ in a world that rarely slows down. From energetic children’s activities and heartfelt teen discussions to honest conversations among young adults and parents, the camp created room for reflection, connection, and spiritual renewal.

The venue — nestled in nature, surrounded by trees, open skies, and still waters — couldn’t have been more fitting. It invited rest. Reflection. And real community. Many attendees said just being in that setting was enough to feel recharged.

The days were filled with kayaking, archery, and Tai Chi by the lake — quiet and energetic moments woven together. Children were kept active and engaged throughout the program. Teens bonded through discussion and sport. Young adults found space to be real. Parents shared wisdom, burdens, and laughter in equal measure.

One of the most enjoyable evenings was the campfire night — not your typical firepit moment, but a lively open-air session with a DJ, music, and dancing under the stars. It was a chance to unwind, celebrate, and simply have fun together as a community. And of course, the sumptuous food — served generously and shared joyfully — was a thread that ran through every day. Mealtimes weren’t just about food. They were moments to rest, to reconnect, and to reflect.

From early morning liturgies to late-night chai breaks, every part of the weekend carried purpose — and peace.

A True Diocesan Effort

Enchristos 2025 was the first major Diocesan event held since the formal establishment of the Asia-Pacific Diocese in late 2024 — and it set the tone for the kind of unity, collaboration, and spirit-led purpose that defines this new chapter in our journey.

The camp was made possible through the tireless efforts of over 80 volunteers from the Sydney Region. Their dedication, servant-heartedness, and willingness to take on everything from logistics and hospitality to childcare, liturgical support, and activities ensured the smooth running of the entire camp.

This wasn’t a committee event — it was a community effort. Volunteers took ownership, leaders backed each other, and every task, big or small, was carried with quiet conviction.

We are especially grateful to our Bishops:

• HG Dr. Yuhanon Mar Diascoros, Metropolitan of the Kottayam Diocese and Assistant Metropolitan of the Asia-Pacific Diocese

• HG Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios, Metropolitan of the Kunnamkulam Diocese

• HG Geevarghese Mar Philoxenos, Metropolitan of the Madras Diocese

Their prayers, guidance, and pastoral presence throughout the weekend were a profound blessing to all attendees.

We were also deeply blessed by the presence and contribution of Rev. Fr. Dr. Timothy Thomas, fondly known as “Tenny Achen” — a priest of the Malankara Orthodox Church currently serving in the Northeast American Diocese. Achen brought not only his spiritual wisdom but also his pastoral warmth, humour, and energy that resonated across all ages.

With a rich academic background that includes a Ph.D. in Theology & Religion from Fordham University, advanced theological training at the University of Oxford and St. Vladimir’s Seminary, and pastoral leadership as Vicar of Saint Gregorios Orthodox Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, Achen’s presence elevated the experience of the entire camp. Beyond the titles, he connected with attendees as a friend, mentor, and teacher.

We also extend our sincere thanks to Deacon Ananias Ananievski, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne and Diocesan Secretary to HG Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, for his gracious presence and support throughout the event.

Born in Melbourne, Deacon Ananias earned his Master of Divinity with Honours in Dogmatic Theology at the Orthodox Theological Seminary of St. Tikhon in Pennsylvania, and later completed a Master of Theology with Highest Distinction in Canon Law from Holy Cross in Boston. He developed a deep appreciation for Indian Orthodoxy during his seminary formation and is currently engaged in doctoral research in Ecclesiology at the Australian Catholic University.

Looking Ahead to 2027

As we now look forward to Brisbane 2027, we carry more than just memories — we carry momentum. This year didn’t just remind us of what Enchristos is — it reminded us why it matters.

• Because when we make space to be present with Christ and with each other…

• When generations gather, serve, and grow side by side…

• When we say yes to showing up, to serving, to seeking…
  

It is good for us to be here.
And we will be again.

“It is good for us to be here.” — Luke 9:33

These words, spoken on the Mount of Transfiguration, took on a fresh and powerful meaning for the 386 participants of Enchristos 2025, held from 24–26 April in Sydney. With 118 children aged 17 and under, and families travelling from across the country, as well as from New Zealand, Singapore, and Malaysia, this was more than just a long-awaited camp — it was a deeply spiritual moment in the life of our Diocese.

A Long-Awaited Return

The last Enchristos was held in 2019 in Melbourne, where the vision of a Diocesan family camp took its first breath. What followed was five years of delay — disrupted plans, a pandemic, and uncertainty about when, or if, we’d gather again. But what 2025 reminded us is that God’s timing is often better than ours.

This camp didn’t just happen — it was built. With prayer, persistence, and people stepping forward in faith. And once it began, it was clear that something sacred had returned. As families arrived, volunteers worked behind the scenes, and voices rose in prayer once again, there was one shared sense across the site: It is good for us to be here.