Camp Maria Retreat Center, a ministry of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, is celebrating a year of growth, new offerings, and continued support from donors, volunteers, and local organizations. The ministry has expanded its programs while improving its facilities to serve guests better.
This year marks the launch of a new environmental education program aimed at connecting students with the natural world and teaching them the importance of caring for creation. Since March, five school groups, including Father Andrew White S.J. School, Our Lady Star of the Sea School, St. John’s School, and Mother Catherine Academy, have participated. The newly created Nature Center features a mural, aquariums, microscopes, and other tools to help students explore life along Breton Bay. Outdoor activities complement the indoor learning, with kayaking, water testing, oyster observation, and nature-inspired art projects.
The Nature Center was made possible through the generosity of donors and the talents of Mary Beth Drury, who painted the mural that surrounds the space. Surrounded by images of birds, fish, trees, and water, visitors are reminded of the responsibility to care for all creation.
Camp Maria also continues to host popular events. This spring, the Easter Egg Hunt and Music Festival drew families despite rainy weather. Volunteers and musicians helped create a lively event for guests of all ages.
Facility improvements have remained a priority. Volunteers from St. Aloysius Mission Ministry, along with students from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, worked on several projects. These included landscape upgrades, cabin repairs, fire pit improvements, and interior painting. Thanks to these efforts, the bedrooms have been completed and plans are underway to transform the Roost gathering space this fall.
Camp Maria will soon host Camp Creation 2025, its fifth summer camp for children ages 7 to 12. Nearly 50 young people will attend from July 7 to 10 to experience nature and community. Group swim lessons will also be offered starting June 23, providing personalized instruction to help swimmers gain confidence and skill.
Two upcoming events will welcome visitors later this year. The 13th Annual Oyster Scald will take place October 12, featuring live music, food, raffles, and activities. In December, the camp will present a new live nativity event, Journey to Bethlehem, offering guests a walk-through of five live scenes leading to the Nativity.
Sister Chris Kunze provides spiritual leadership and support in guiding the ministry’s mission and programs.
With the ongoing support of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and community partners, Camp Maria Retreat Center continues to serve as a place where guests can connect, learn, and enjoy the beauty of nature.