Youth

Greek Orthodox Youth of America (GOYA)
GOYA is a ministry of the Church for youth grades 7th – 12th. The mission of GOYA is to strengthen the relationship of young Orthodox Christians with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. GOYA is not an organization or club, but simply a gathering of the faithful of the Church who share the same grades, ages and common interests. It is a spiritual ministry based on the theological tenets of the Orthodox Christian Faith.

GOYA integrates the following elements throughout the year: worship, fellowship and service. These tenants of GOYA are seen in their yearly events including: St. Timothy’s Summer Camp, volunteering for Orthodox Action, Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, retreats, sports, and outdoor activities to name a few. Visit the Church calendar to see what is planned for GOYA this month!

Junior Orthodox Youth (JOY) & Holy Orthodox Primary Education (HOPE)
JOY & HOPE are ministries of the Church. JOY ministers to youth in grades 3rd – 6th while HOPE is for children Kindergarten through 2nd grade. Here in our parish, these ministries are combined to form JOY/HOPE. The mission of JOY/HOPE is to strengthen the relationship of young Orthodox Christians with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is a spiritual ministry based on the theological tenets of the Orthodox Christian Faith.

JOY/HOPE integrates the following elements throughout the year: worship, fellowship and service. These tenants of JOY/HOPE are seen in their yearly events including: St. Timothy’s summer camp, Vacation Church School, monthly JOY/HOPE activities, retreats, outdoor activities, and other exciting events. Visit the Church calendar to see what is planned for JOY/HOPE this month!

Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF)
OCF is comprised of a group of college and university students who come together for fellowship, to learn more about the Orthodox Christian Faith and maintain their bonds to the Church during this time in their lives. OCFs have been called “lifelines” for college students, providing them with opportunities to stay connected with and grow in the Faith. They also act as “mission centers,” allowing members to share their Faith on campus with people who are not Orthodox Christians.

At the University of Buffalo, we have made an effort to develop an OCF for students from many of the major colleges in the Buffalo area, not only UB. We sponsor events that are ideal for making new friendships as well as providing spiritual edification. From our social events out (such as bowling night), or in (game night at a member’s home), to those in which we explore our Faith together (visiting local churches, holding bible studies, or attending Orthodox retreats), the bonds we create through meeting new people who share our faith are ones that are forged indefinitely.

For more information on our Youth Ministries please contact our Church Office by clicking here, joining our Facebook Page, or by calling 882-9485.