European Summer HARP Workshop Concludes in Glanów, Poland Under the Theme ‘CHOSEN’
By FFWPU EUME
GLANÓW, POLAND — Dozens of young participants and youth leaders from across Europe gathered in the historic countryside of Glanów, Poland, from August 1 to August 8, 2026, for the annual European Summer HARP Workshop. Centered on the empowering central theme “CHOSEN,” the eight-day gathering provided high school-aged youth with a transformative week of spiritual exploration, character development, physical activity, and intercultural friendship.
Unpacking the Theme: “CHOSEN”
The core vision of this year’s workshop revolved around helping young people discover a deeper sense of personal identity, spiritual calling, and individual responsibility in an increasingly complex world. Daily educational modules and guided discussion circles centered on three core dimensions of being “CHOSEN”:
- Individual Worth & Identity: Encouraging participants to recognize their inherent value and divine potential beyond societal pressures.
- Purpose & Responsibility: Exploring how personal conviction translates into moral leadership, constructive action, and service to others.
- Community & Unity: Building a supportive international network where young people empower one another to stay true to their principles.
Program Highlights & Daily Experience
The workshop balanced rigorous spiritual and character education with dynamic recreational activities and collaborative living:
1. Morning Devotionals & Educational Lectures
Each day began with morning reflection, song, and interactive lectures delivered by experienced youth mentors. Topics spanned personal faith development, ethical decision-making, navigating relationships, and understanding global responsibility.
2. “Family Group” Reflection & Mentorship
Participants were organized into multi-national small groups led by dedicated team staff. These “family groups” met daily after lectures to dissect workshop themes, share personal reflections, and build meaningful trust through open dialogue.
3. Athletics & Team Building
The Glanów grounds hosted organized sports tournaments—including volleyball, soccer, and cooperative outdoor challenges. These activities emphasized teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical wellness.
4. Cultural Nights & Fellowship
Evening programs featured youth talent showcases, campfire song sessions, reflection evenings, and artistic expression nights. Participants shared traditions, music, and stories from their respective home countries, celebrating the diversity of the European region.
Venue & Community Leadership
Held in the scenic setting of Glanów, Poland, the rural venue provided a tranquil, distraction-free environment ideal for reflection, community living, and outdoor events.
The workshop’s smooth execution was driven by an international staff of volunteer coordinators. Under the coordination of the regional youth leadership team, staff members fulfilled critical roles including group mentoring, master-of-ceremonies duties, sports organization, technical support, and kitchen logistics.
Impact & Looking Ahead
As the event drew to a close on August 8, participants departed Glanów with renewed motivation, strengthened faith, and lasting international connections. The “CHOSEN” workshop equipped attending youth with practical tools and a grounded mindset to serve as positive leaders within their families, local communities, and schools for the upcoming academic year.