Explanation of the 2019 Creative Festivals Theme

Antiochian Village: Past, Present, & Future
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

 This year’s theme was selected by Metropolitan JOSEPH in order to focus on that great treasure our Archdiocese is blessed to possess: Antiochian Village. His Eminence wrote the following: “There, ‘He was transfigured before them.’ (Mark 9:2) Since 1978, the Antiochian Village has been the Mount Tabor for our Archdiocese. It has been our home to gather to encounter our transfigured Lord; to be ourselves transfigured. As much as we can bear our Lord’s glory, we can bring His glory to the world. The Antiochian Village is where our bishops, clergy, adults and children gather to study, worship, fellowship and rejuvenate our faith. We have invested much of ourselves in this place where we meet and are fed by God.”

Philippians 4:13 was selected because this verse appears on the arch to Antiochian Village Camp. Countless children and adults have passed under that arch, but how many have contemplated what this quotation really means? Philippians 4:13 is one of the most popular, yet perhaps one of the most misunderstood verses in the Bible. Does it mean that if I pray hard enough I can do (or have) whatever I want? Oftentimes what’s missing in our understanding of this verse is the acknowledgement of God’s will for us. In order to truly understand this quote, we must examine it in context. If we look at verse 11, St. Paul says, “…I have learned in whatever state I am to be content.” Things may not always go according to our plan, but as long as we trust in God’s plan for us we can overcome any obstacles we may encounter.

Through the lesson plans and other resources provided by the Department of Christian Education, the students will learn the true meaning of the scriptural quotation and the importance of coming together for worship, witness and fellowship as members of God’s family in the “spiritual oasis” that is Antiochian Village.