CURRENT AND UPCOMING HOPE/JOY EVENTS AND PROJECTS
'25-'26 Youth Ministries Registration >
September 27, 2025, "Light of the World"
With a full theater and joyful hearts, our HOPE/JOY youth gathered this past weekend for a special movie night to see “Light of the World.” What a wonderful way for our children to experience the life of Jesus together.
On Saturday, October 25th, our Hope/JOY youth will celebrate “Plant Kindness, Harvest Joy,” a special event focused on the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Matthew 7:12 / Luke 6:31). Through engaging lessons, stories, crafts, and games, children will learn how simple acts of kindness can grow into JOY for themselves and those around them. We will enjoy a potluck feast together and end the evening with music and dancing!
Please RSVP via the SignUpGenius and bring something for our potluck dinner if you can!
God’s Blessings,
Effie Patounas
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,
HOPE & JOY Ministry Leader
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 for giving back to the community.
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 has a range of exciting activities planned. 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.
CONTACT
HOPE & JOY Ministry Leader