With the blessings of His Grace Bishop Irinej of Washington-New York and Eastern America, the first-ever Iconography Camp of the Eastern American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church concluded the week of October 12-18, 2025 at St. Sava Camp at the Monastery Estate of the Most Holy Mother of God in Shadeland, Pennsylvania. This historic gathering brought together iconographers and students from across the United States for an inspiring week of theological reflection, artistic training, prayer, and fellowship under the direction of Presbyter George Popovich of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, Theologian and Master Iconographer with more than 30 years of experience.

Participants arrived on Sunday, October 12, and quickly entered into the peaceful rhythm of the monastic setting. Throughout the week, they attended daily theological lectures exploring the meaning of the icon as “Theology in Color” and participated in practical workshops focused on the sacred discipline of fresco painting.

Working together under Fr. George’s guidance, the group completed a monumental fresco on the west wall of the Shadeland Monastery Church dedicated to the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos - a work that beautifully unites Serbian heritage with the living Orthodox Faith in America.

On the right side of the composition, the first Serbian immigrants to the United States are shown bowing before Christ the Pantocrator, led by a Serbian mother and father with children, symbolizing faith, endurance, and family. Behind them stands St. Sava, the first Archbishop of Serbia, presenting the Shadeland Church to Christ. Surrounding them are revered saints of the Serbian Orthodox Church who shaped the spiritual life of our people at home and abroad: St. Nicholai of Zhicha and Ohrid, St. Mardarije of Libertyville, St. Basil of Ostrog, and St. Sebastian of Jackson and San Francisco.

On the left side, the fresco opens toward the present, depicting the children of St. Sava Shadeland Camp, dressed in modern clothing, approaching the Most Holy Theotokos. They are led by the monastery’s heavenly protectress, Venerable Mother Angelina, followed by Venerable Anastasia, mother of St. Sava; Venerable Mother Paraskeva; Venerable Anastasia Ana, mother of St. Basil; and St. Hypomone (Empress Helen Dragas). The scene captures the continuity of faith through generations - from the first emigrants who brought Orthodoxy to America to today’s youth who carry it forward.

“Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish Thou the work of our hands upon us.” (Psalm 90:17)

Although the camp lasted just one week, participants made remarkable progress, nearly completing the fresco. The work will be finalized in the coming days, standing as a visible testimony to faith, creativity, and unity in Christ.

The week also included moments of prayer, shared meals, and community. Participants expressed deep gratitude to Milly Radovick and Deedee Baskot, President and Vice President of the Eastern American Federation of Circles of Serbian Sisters, whose hospitality and delicious meals made everyone feel at home. Their loving care was described by many as “a ministry of warmth and joy”.

On Saturday morning, the camp concluded with the Divine Liturgy celebrated by Fr. George Popovich, offering thanksgiving for the blessings of the week and the talents shared by each participant. The Liturgy crowned the camp with the grace of the Eucharist - uniting art, prayer, and community in the fullness of Orthodox life.

This first Iconography Camp marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Eastern America. With the vision and blessing of His Grace Bishop Irinej, the Diocese hopes to establish an ongoing Iconography and Theology Center at Shadeland Monastery Estate, dedicated to educating and forming future generations of iconographers who will adorn our churches with beauty and theological depth.

“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

May the light of Christ, revealed through sacred art, continue to shine from the walls of the Monastery church in Shadeland - inspiring hearts, renewing faith, and giving glory to the One who became visible for our salvation.

In Christ,

Fr. George Popovich

Director, Iconography Camp, St. Sava Camp at the Most Holy Theotokos Monastery in Shadeland