Junior Orthodox Youth (J.O.Y.)

Under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Father Nicolaos H. Kotsis

Junior Orthodox Youth, or J.O.Y., ministers to 3rd through 6th grade children of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. A child’s world is changing rapidly—it is virtually impossible to keep up with every new trend and movement of their culture. Growing up in today’s society is a much more difficult task than it was in previous times. Our children are constantly being exposed to negative and destructive influences. If these influences are not challenged; they can, and will, define who our children will become. Innocence is slipping away at an alarmingly early age. For these reasons, the positive teachings and traditions of the Orthodox Church must become a living presence in the lives of our children. This makes ministry to our children not an option, but rather a necessity. The foundation of all youth ministry is the cultivation and education of our children, so that they may become active members of the Body of Christ. J.O.Y. Ministry is but one means to this end; it must not stand alone, but rather be incorporated into the entire life of the Church and its mission. The mission of J.O.Y. is to strengthen the relationship of young Orthodox Christians with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The program works to educate and edify young members of the Church, encouraging them to become active sacramental participants in the life of the Body of Christ. This ministry offers them the opportunity to experience the Faith, ultimately leading them to Salvation. JOY is a ministry of the Church. It 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.We do meet once a month, from 12:30-2:00 pm. We begin each class with a prayer followed by an appreciated and fabulous lunch which is provided by one of our parents. Full attention then will be focused on Rev. Father Nick as he teaches us about the parable of the month. A related project will take place after our lesson with Rev. Father Nick.

It is important to keep in mind that the single greatest influence on how a child develops a “sense of self” is their parents.  Youth ministry needs to begin early, even before the child begins to participate in J.O.Y. Ministry. It begins with the family in the home, and it needs to continue in the home as the child grows in the Church.

Your child must be registered to participate. Click here to print the registration form. Download the Archdiocese J.O.Y. Guidelines.
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Advisor:
Presbytera Sandra - sspilson@hotmail.com
Margarita Bekiares - bekiares@umich.edu
​Shaza Asad