Hooray—our cherished traditions are alive and well!
A Little History: The Orthodox Youth of New York
A little history: in September 2010, Bishop Justinian blessed the first large visit of the Orthodox Youth of New York (Православная молодежь Нью-Йорка) to the Patriarchal estate in Pine Bush, NY. That first gathering marked the birth of the group, and every year since, this community has kept the tradition alive. Over the years, Archpriest Nikolai Babijtchouk and now, Father Artemiy, have guided the visits, continuing the legacy of care, hospitality, and spiritual inspiration that generations have come to cherish.
Join Us This Labor Day Weekend
This Labor Day, we warmly invite you and your family to join us at the Patriarchal estate in Pine Bush, NY, for a weekend of prayer, work, and fellowship. It’s a chance to step away from the city hustle, enjoy the fresh air, and participate in meaningful activities for both body and spirit. Attend the Divine Liturgy, go to confession and receive communion, explore a small farm, play volleyball or soccer, or simply enjoy the calm beauty of the grounds.
Honoring Father Nikolai’s Dream
But this weekend isn’t just about rest and recreation. It’s a continuation of a dream and a legacy: the dream of Archpriest Nikolai Babijtchouk, who served our parish for over three decades until his passing in 2022. Father Nikolai’s life was a beacon of devotion, care, and spiritual guidance; his hands baptized and blessed generations, and his joy shone brightest when children, families, and newcomers filled the church.
Among his many hopes was the creation of a small chapel on the burial grounds—a quiet, consecrated place for prayer and reflection near the graves of loved ones. Though he did not live to see it built, thanks to the dedication of parishioners, donors, and volunteers, the chapel in memory of Father Nikolai is now nearly complete. Each stone, each nail, stands as a testament to love, faith, and spiritual continuity.
Work, Fellowship, and Special Moments
This Labor Day weekend, we’ll honor Father Nikolai’s legacy by coming together to help prepare the estate for this historic occasion. There’s work for everyone—chopping firewood, painting, tidying, or simply offering a helping hand. Bring tents, sleeping bags, and anything else you’d need for a mini camping experience. Meals will be provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies to cook shashlik, pilaf, or whatever delights you.
Special moments are planned throughout the weekend:
- Talks and guidance from Father Artemiy
- Advice and guidance from Matushka Olga and Ekaterina
- Evening campfires on August 30 and 31 for fellowship, reflection, and relaxation
Continuing the Legacy
Even if you never met Father Nikolai personally, your efforts in helping prepare the estate, grounds, and chapel will become part of his spiritual legacy, part of the living Church, and part of a tradition that has nurtured generations.
Come for a day, or stay for a couple of days—either way, this is a perfect mix of prayer, rest, fellowship, and service. Let’s honor the past, work together in the present, and help lay the foundations for future generations.
The site is also being softly launched this weekend as part of the ongoing effort to share these special events with the broader community.
Photos and Videos
09/02/25 UPDATE: A few days after the tents were packed and the tires rolled off the grass, our gallery brings back the weekend’s spirit—working side by side, sharing meals, kids running and playing, cleaning and caring for the grounds, standing together in liturgy, and singing by the fire pit late into the night.
Photo credits: Maria Gordova, Larisa Hafizov, Ed Zorz Hafizov, Marina Ivannikova, Olga Kulikovskyi, Sanya S., Evgeniy Troi.
For more about the Orthodox Youth of New York: Facebook group
Special thanks to Marina Ivannikova, MC of the group: Marina’s profile
