Annual three-day gathering of the Orthodox Youth of the Benelux in Bruges

In October 2026, the Orthodox Youth of the Benelux held their annual three-day gathering at the Merkenveld retreat centre, nestled in a lush green setting near Bruges, Belgium.

Approximately 130 young men and women from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, representing a variety of nationalities and Orthodox parishes, came together for a weekend of fellowship, prayer, spiritual reflection and fraternal communion. In the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Merkenveld, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, they had the opportunity to deepen their faith, share their experiences and forge new friendships.

This year’s gathering was held under the theme “Following Christ: Bearing Witness to Our Faith Through Our Lives.” The main speaker was Hieromonk Theophilos Pantokratorinos from Mount Athos.

In his talks, Father Theophilos focused particularly on how young Christians can follow Christ in their daily lives and bear authentic witness to their faith in the world in which God has placed them. He placed particular emphasis on the importance of a personal relationship with God, nurtured through prayer, thanksgiving and participation in the life of the Church. He reminded the…