No, Chivalry Is Not Dead: The Best Camp for Catholic Boys
Every summer, something extraordinary happens deep in the heart of Louisiana. Amidst the sweltering Southern heat and beneath the standards of medieval pageantry, forty young men gathered once again for the Call to Chivalry Camp, hosted by TFP Louisiana. For seven unforgettable days, boys stepped into a world of Catholic knighthood, manly virtue, and adventure.
This is not your average summer camp.
(Get information about the next TFP camp here)
Waking Up Like Soldiers of Christ
Each morning began not with alarm clocks, but with the rousing sounds of bagpipes and drums. The boys sprang from bed to prepare for another day in the footsteps of saints and crusaders. After morning prayers, room inspections followed—because a well-ordered room reflects a well-ordered soul.
Any dust or disarray? Push-ups were swiftly assigned.
Next came the flag-raising ceremony and Creed formation. As the American flag, the Vatican banner, and the crimson standard of the TFP ascended skyward, the boys sang the Credo with bold voices. Then, marching in formation and chanting “We Want God,” they made their way to breakfast—ready to take on the spiritual battles of the day.
Chivalry and Christendom
Each day featured inspiring lectures rooted in history and featuring Catholic heroes. One talk explored The Medieval Order and the greatness of Christendom during the Age of Faith, summarized by Pope Leo XIII as “a time when States were governed by the philosophy of the Gospel.” Campers learned why the Middle Ages were not dark, but dazzling, and how to recapture and live that same noble spirit in our own times.
Another standout session focused on Saint Nuno Alvares Pereira, Portugal’s soldier-saint who defeated invaders and later became a humble Carmelite monk. His life is a powerful reminder that chivalry, valor, and sanctity go hand in hand, and that the ultimate goal of every human endeavor should be focused on giving glory to God, ad majorem Dei gloriam.
Medieval Games
No chivalry camp is complete without a few (dozen) battles! The boys tested their strength and courage in a range of exhilarating games: shield ball, dodgeball, French football, and foam sword duels that turned grassy fields into something remotely akin to medieval battlegrounds.
The grand tournament pitted Team Saint Nuno against Team Saint Francisco Marto. The games were fierce, and the final tug-of-war match—fought under rallying cries like “Viva Cristo Rey!” and “If you haven’t given everything, you haven’t given anything!”—sealed Saint Nuno’s team as the champion.
Under the intense Louisiana sun, drink breaks were a welcome reprieve—but they didn’t slow the pace of this crusader boot camp!
Spiritual Weapons: Rosary & Resolve
More powerful than any sword, however, was the holy Rosary. Each day, the boys invoked Our Lady in prayer, wielding their beads like true spiritual warriors. If one lesson rang loud and clear, it was this: the rosary is the crusader’s greatest weapon.
Challenging Mind and Body
Campers were tested not just in physical resilience but also in intellectual ability. One challenge required them to memorize and present the Ten Commandments of Chivalry, convincing their fellow knights to live by them. Others showcased their aim in archery, their wits in chess, and their reflexes in high-stakes ping-pong tournaments. Only the sharpest and most agile made it to the final rounds!
Pro Life Campaign for God & Country
A highlight of the camp was the street campaign in Lafayette on July 3rd. With signs like “Honk for America” and “Honk Against Abortion,” the boys took a bold public stand for the unborn and for the moral regeneration of the nation. Hundreds of supportive honks echoed through the streets.
But it wasn’t all applause. One angry abortion supporter attempted to harass the group, but local police acted swiftly, escorting the troublemaker away in handcuffs. Almost immediately, a friendly passerby from Germany approached to express admiration. He recognized the TFP from European pro-life marches and was thrilled to see the same courageous spirit alive in America.
A Medieval Banquet to End It All
After a week of sweat, prayer, battle, and new friends, the camp ended with a spectacular medieval banquet. An entire pig was roasted, accompanied by delicious side dishes, salads, and drinks. As a grand finale, a cake shaped like a castle—baked by TFP volunteers—was served in celebration.
Parents and campers alike marveled at the transformation they had witnessed: boys inspired to be men of honor, courage, and Catholic conviction.
More Than a Camp
The 2025 Call to Chivalry Camp was more than a camp. It was a forge—molding the Catholic leaders of tomorrow. These young men depart ready to fight the good fight, defend the Church, and stand as beacons of truth in a world drowning in confusion. America needs holy and bold heroes. And these boys are answering the call.
Chivalry is not dead.