Western Diocese

On March 29, 2008 the 2^nd Annual Junior Retreat was held at the Coptic Village Retreat facility in Big Bear, CA with over 75 ACYO Juniors in attendance from parishes throughout Southern California. This event was hosted by the ACYO Central Council.

The weekend long event focused on giving Junior the opportunities to meet and spend time with their peers from throughout the Diocese, as well as religious education. Two bible studies were held, the first on Friday evening led by Dn. Steven Arakelian, and the second on Saturday evening led by Dn. Hayk Tigranyan. During the Saturday the participants went on outings to Alpine Slide Park, and Big Bear Lake. On Sunday morning, a prayer service was held in the St. Maurice and St. Verena Chapel which was led by Dn. Matthew Ash.

"We're so proud that in its second year, the Junior Retreat program has nearly doubled in size, and that the youth are excited to participate," said Alex Giragosian, chair of the Junior Retreat Sub-committee, "Thanks go out to the ACYO Seniors and the chapter parents who donated their time to help make this event a success."