CURRENT AND UPCOMING HOPE/JOY EVENTS AND PROJECTS
Del Val HOPE/JOY Bible Bowl, Saturday, March 14, 2026
All Hope & JOY aged youth (Kindergarten through 6th grade) across the DVYC are invited to this year’s Bible Bowl, hosted by Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Elkins Park!
This year’s Bible Bowl will feature a Family Feud-style game show theme, offering energetic, friendly competition and plenty of laughter as teams test their Bible knowledge in a quick-paced, interactive format that’s fun for everyone.
We’ll start the morning with light refreshments, get into the games, and finish the day with lunch and a hands-on service project, giving our youth the chance to learn, connect, and serve together.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Afrodite (Effie) Patounas
HOPE/JOY Advisor
Link to RSVP and sign up to bring your AGAPE bag donation: https://form.jotform.com/260296147087059
Koliva and Cocoa Event, February 27, 2026
Cathy Avgiris, with the support of our Philoptochos ladies, hosted a special event for our youth focused on the significance of preparing Koliva in remembrance of the departed. Made from boiled wheat berries mixed with sugar and spices, koliva is a meaningful tradition that reminds us to honor and pray for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord. After the lesson, each child made their own bowl of koliva and decorated it with nuts, powdered sugar, and spices. The bowls, along with the names of their departed loved ones, were placed on a table in the center of the solea to be blessed the following morning on the first Saturday of Souls.
May the memory of our beloved departed be eternal!
Yours in Christ,
Afrodite (Effie) Patounas
HOPE/JOY Advisor
September 2025 Welcome Message
Dear Parents,
On behalf of Father John, we are thrilled to welcome you and your children to our HOPE & JOY Ministry for the 2025–2026 year! We look forward to another wonderful year of faith, fellowship, and fun together.
To kick things off, we invite you to join us for a special Movie Night with a private screening of the new animated film, Light of the World. All youth from Kindergarten through 6th grade are welcome to attend; please email me directly, Effie Patounas, to RSVP by 9/17.
This beautiful animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of His beloved young friend, the Apostle John. Set in AD 30, the film follows John and the Apostles as they embark on the life-changing journey of following Christ. From the beginning of His ministry through His crucifixion and resurrection, Light of the World powerfully illustrates how Jesus changed the world forever—and continues to transform lives today!
We look forward to seeing you there for this special beginning to our ministry year!
In Christ,
Yours in Christ,
Afrodite (Effie) Patounas
HOPE/JOY Advisor
MISSION
Our HOPE-JOY ministry serves children in kindergarten through 6th grade. We are committed to providing a welcoming and engaging environment for young Orthodox Christians to learn and grow in their faith. We offer a diverse range of fun events throughout the year, from social outings to faith-based activities, Lenten retreats, and more. Children will also be involved in various community service projects, fostering a love of giving back.
PARTICIPATION
Parents with children in K-6th grades, get ready for a fun-filled journey with our youth ministry! We encourage you to become active in this ministry, which offers a range of exciting activities. From monthly Friday nights with Fr. John to faith-learning crafts and snack time, field trips, and seasonal activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Please check our Weekly Bulletin and Community Calendar for upcoming HOPE-JOY activities.
'25-'26 Youth Ministries Registration
CONTACT
