Catholic Heroes Inspire Young Men at TFP Camp in Florida
The American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family, and Property (TFP) has long organized Call to Chivalry camps for boys ages 12-18. These events aim to instill the same spirit of Catholic heroism and sanctity of ages past. Fathers can also attend with their sons and help with the programs.
The camps develop themes from Christendom’s rich history. This can range from Catholic Mexico and the Cristeros to this year’s theme, Catholic Austria and the Holy Roman Empire.
At the 2022 camp hosted on June 20-24 in Ocala, Florida, young men approached the theme not as a fossil but as part of a living past with lessons to help better face today’s crisis.
Participants Marvel at Austro-Hungarian Heroes
This year’s talks were packed with inspiring examples of heroism for the Catholic cause. The boys learned about the Siege of Vienna, Andreas Hofer, who fought Napoleon and the postwar Rosary Crusade that saved Austria from communism. They also learned about Austrian culture, like the Lipizzaner stallions or the national cuisine, which are fruits of Christian civilization.
The Epic Spirit in Prayer, Games, and Campaign
Each day was enriched by rosaries and processions with a statue of Our Lady of Fatima. There were outdoor adventures, medieval games and a street campaign. The boys fought battles with imitation swords. They played capture the flag, French football, and shield ball. Outside activities included a hike and a public anti-socialism rally.
Thus, participants got to apply the heroism witnessed in the talks. In this aspect, the Call to Chivalry camps stand out.
Medieval Banquet in Celebration of the Overturning of Roe
This year’s camp was special. On Friday, June 24, Feast of the Sacred Heart and the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, camp participants celebrated the overturning of Roe v. Wade with root beer floats for the young men and champagne for fathers and camp directors.
The final medieval banquet, however, continued the celebration. TFP volunteers, fathers, and their sons cheered as a delicious roasted pig entered the dining area. The hall was decorated with swords, flags, standards and armor. A statue of Our Lady of Fatima was enthroned in a central place of honor.
May the triumph over Roe serve to inspire these young men, as did the victory ending the long Siege of Vienna. Let them advance in this spiritual crusade for America’s future as the Austrian heroes they admired did for God and their country.
Do you know someone who should attend a Call to Chivalry Camp?
Click here for more information.