DEO GRATIAS!  This year's Boys' Youth Camp was very successful thanks to the good weather and the help by the faithful of St. Mary's Oratory.  The annual camp was held at the JMJ Farm in Bowler, Wisconsin, from July 18-22.  The camp was organized by Rev. Canon Henry Fragelli, with the help of Canons Gardner, Meney, Hellmann, and Huberfeld.

About 60 boys ages 12 through 18, along with many of their fathers and adult chaperones, from various apostolates of the Institute of Christ the King Apostolates in the Midwest, participated in this year's camp, of which the aim is the Catholic formation of boys.

The boys were divided into six teams named after their chosen patron saint. Each team was led by a team leader and a chaperone.  The camp started each day with Holy Mass, during which confessions were made available, and ended with a campfire, where each team entertained everyone with their talents and creativity.  Daily spirituality talks on topics such as Catholic Manhood, Vocation and State of Life, as well as on Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. John Vianney, were also given.  The camp promoted healthy competition and camaraderie between teams through games, Olympics, and Silly Olympics.

They also participated in various outdoor activities such as scavenger hunt and horseback riding.  In addition, the boys joined together for Stations of the Cross and Rosary processions around the beautiful farm.  On the last day, the boys and helpers were given awards for their great participation and contribution to the youth camp.