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Youth, Faith, and Adventure: SVD Slovak Province Leads Summer Experiences 2025
Tomáš Gerboc SVD
UPaC Students from Ružomberok on a Pilgrimage to Oies and Hiking in the Heart of the Dolomites
The breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites became a classroom of faith and endurance for students from the University Pastoral Center (UPaC) in Ružomberok. Guided by Father Tomáš Gerboc, SVD, the group combined spiritual pilgrimage and mountain adventure from July 1 to 6, 2025, as they traveled to northern Italy. Their journey centered on a visit to Oies, the birthplace of St. Joseph Freinademetz, SVD, and continued with unforgettable hiking in one of Europe’s most majestic ranges.
The students reached two remarkable peaks. First, the summit of Monte Cavallo (2907 m), where the panoramic views rewarded their demanding climb. Later, they conquered Piz Boè (3152 m), the highest point of the Sella mountain range, which required climbing nearly 900 meters of altitude across five kilometers. The challenge tested their strength, but the sense of accomplishment was immense.
Time in the Dolomites was more than hiking; it was a journey of the soul. Shared experiences, laughter, and moments of prayer deepened friendships and strengthened faith. The group also marveled at two alpine gems—Lago di Braies and Lago di Sorapis—reflecting on the beauty of creation and the God who sustains it.
Mission Holidays 2025 – Považská Bystrica
“Take a Step” was the inspiring motto that set the tone for this year’s Mission Holidays in Považská Bystrica. From July 13 to 18, 2025, teenagers aged 12 to 20 gathered for a week that promised both adventure and spiritual renewal, with each day inviting them to take a step—toward God, toward themselves, toward others, and toward home.
Faith was at the heart of the program, but joy and friendship were never far away. Through prayer, Mass, and reflection, the young participants deepened their relationship with God, while outdoor sports, hikes, and games gave them a chance to strengthen their bodies and build new friendships. For many, the camp became an experience of personal transformation and spiritual enrichment.
A dedicated team made this week unforgettable: Sisters of the Servants of the Holy Spirit, Sisters of the Queen of Apostles, SVD seminarians, Slovak volunteer animators, and Father Pavol Baláž, SVD. Together they created an atmosphere filled with energy, creativity, and faith—leaving the youth inspired to take their next steps with courage.
Parish Camp in Prague – Uhříněves
Imagination and joy filled the air at this year’s parish camp in Prague–Uhříněves, organized by the Slovak Province of the SVD. From August 11 to 15, 2025, children spent their summer days painting T-shirts, competing in playground races, and weaving small rugs, which they later joined into one large carpet as a special gift for their parish administrator, Fr. Marián Brudný, SVD.
The camp was full of creativity and adventure. Young participants went on a pilgrimage to Hrusice, challenged themselves on a climbing wall, and even built a dragon, which they later “hid” in the forest as part of their games. A highlight was the excursion to Loučeň Castle, where history, play, and chocolate tasting made for a day of wonder and delight.
What remained after these days was more than happy memories—it was a sense of community, faith, and togetherness. The camp reminded children that summer fun can also be an opportunity to grow closer to one another and to God.
Together, these three events—the pilgrimage in the Dolomites, the Mission Holidays in Slovakia, and the parish camp in Prague—revealed the vibrant spirit of the SVD Slovak Province: bringing young people closer to God, to one another, and to the joy of life through shared experiences of faith, play, and discovery.
