Impressions – Datev 2010

This was my first year going to Datev and although I was a bit nervous and hesitant I really enjoyed myself.  I met a lot of people from different states and learned a lot about our Armenian culture and religion.  Although I am only 50% Armenian and don't speak the language except a few words, I was accepted by all. I will continue to serve as an acolyte on the altar at my church and do my best to become better and better each week. I am anxious now and looking forward to returning to Datev next year to learn more. 

Amir Adelinia – 1st Year

Datev is a great place for Armenian Christians to make friends and learn about our religion and culture. There are morning and evening services everyday, as well as classes Monday through Friday, so students will learn a lot. There's also the Datev Games, a series of fun games everyone participates in. There's also a Talent Show, where Datevatsis show their talent. Datev is a great experience for Armenian Christian youth.

Shant Agopian – 2nd Year

This year’s Datev Program was great. The classes and Bible studies were really interesting and I learned a lot. Free time and the talent show were awesome. I had a great time and I can’t wait to go back next year.

Alysha Phillips – 3rd Year

This was my fourth year at Datev; each year I came back it got better and better.  I meet new people every time.  The classes and general sessions this year were all very interesting and caused me to think more about myself as a person both physical and spiritual.  The activities this year were also fun.  During the retreat there was a soccer game that many of the participants played in, and on Wednesday the entire institute went canoeing.  The last aspect of Datev was prayer.  We have morning and evening services every day along with Badarak on Sundays.  I like seeing the complete Badarak during Datev because I usually don't see it as much during the year.  Compared to other years I have attended Datev I think that this year was one of the best.  Everyone was friendly to each other and I learned a lot.

Jason Pjojian – 4th year

My first year as a post graduate at the Datev Institute was great. Datev is a place where you can relax, have fun, and most importantly, learn about our Christian faith. At Datev you meet many new people and experience amazing fellowship. The week is well organized and structured so that there is not one minute of dullness. The worship services in the mornings and evenings are beautiful. I am definitely looking forward to going back next year.

Levon Zobian – PostGrad

I knew a lot of people from previous years and met new friends that were at the Datev Institute for the first time. I’m really looking forward to next year’s Datev.

Antraniq Gharibian – 3rd Year

I learned a lot and I had a great time. I can't wait until next year’s Datev.

Daniel Megerian – 1st Year

Datev is an indescribable experience every year. We are all sent here to learn many valuable lessons, develop and rekindle great friendships, and to be with God in a much more personal, yet communal way. It’s truly a blessing to feel the refreshment that the week at Datev brings, and to go back to our lives, feeling rejuvenated and guided by God. It always seems as if the short time we spend together is never enough, but the experience of being a part of Datev is something I will be forever grateful for. 

Arpi Shetilian – PostGrad

Datev is a place where you get to learn about the Armenian Church and history while being in a fun environment with other Armenian Christians. We also had Armenian History classes and Bible Studies, and other fun activities, like the picnic and the Talent Show, so our days weren't filled with just classes. Datev is a great opportunity to learn about our Church and to make lifelong friends. 

Vrej Agopian – 2nd Year

My experience at Datev has been beyond brilliant. The activities, the friendships and the classes that teach so much in just a week, combine to make Datev so inspiring. Every time I come home from Datev, I feel like a totally different person.

Nazelie Doghramadjian – 2nd Year