Camp Veritas, a Catholic summer camp founded in 2008 by Ryan and Elizabeth Young, gathered more than 500 teens, volunteers, and staff this week for a program that blends prayer, sacraments, and fellowship. The camp, which has expanded to several locations across the United States and Ireland, is designed to immerse young people in the life of the Church while giving them opportunities to form lasting friendships.

For many campers, the week is a turning point in their faith journey. One participant, Isaiah Towne, shared how the camp first drew him in through family ties but quickly became something deeper. “I followed my older siblings who came to camp before me. And when I visited to go see them because I missed them, it just looked like so much fun. And then when I went for my first time, I fell in love with the Lord. And deepened my relationship with him in such a way that I just couldn’t ignore him anymore,” he said.

Others described the unique joy of worshiping together. “I love all the activities, but I think my favorite thing would be getting ready for Mass with all my friends and then going into Mass and just being able to dance with everyone,” said returning camper Sarah Diaz. Claire Whyte, another camper, added, “I love the atmosphere of when we go into adoration and Mass. Everyone’s just so happy and you can tell people are being filled with the Lord.”

On Thursday, the camp welcomed Cardinal Timothy Dolan as a special guest. He celebrated Mass for the entire camp, reflecting in his homily on the life and witness of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the saint of the day. After Mass, the Cardinal joined everyone for dinner, taking the time to greet and pray with the campers.

Ryan Young, who co-founded Camp Veritas with his wife, Elizabeth, said his greatest joy is seeing the transformative power of the Eucharist in the lives of young people. “My favorite part of Camp Veritas is watching these thousands of teens on their knees in front of the Eucharist, giving their life completely and totally to God,” he said.

Camp Veritas continues to grow each year, drawing teens who are seeking both adventure and a deeper encounter with Christ. For more information, visit www.campveritas.org.