ADDITIONAL YOUTH MINISTRIES

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.

— Anne Frank

	Acolytes – Altar Servers An Altar Server or Acolyte is someone who is privileged to serve in the Holy Sanctuary where the Lord dwells. The Altar Server has received special permission to serve in the Holy Altar and to assist the priest in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and other Holy Services. The Holy Sanctuary is a very sacred place in the Church. The Acolyte is an adult, typically 17 years or older, who has additional responsibilities to assist the priest and is directly responsible for the actions and behavior of the Altar servers. No laymen or women are permitted entrance to the Holy Sanctuary without the blessing of the priest or Bishop. View Altar Service Handbook >>
	HOPE The HOPE group is for children preschool age to grade 2. HOPE’s mission is to lead our children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and to become active sacramental members of our Church. We meet primarily on the third Sunday of every month during Church school. Our discussions start with a prayer, followed by an assigned topic and craft activity. We have made our own icons and read stories about various saints, angels, the sacraments, and God’s animal creations. We join with the JOY group for activities such as apple and pumpkin picking, fall harvest festival, nature walks, and sledding in the winter.
	JOY Our Junior Orthodox Youth (JOY) group consists of youth in grades 3-6. Its mission is to lead them to experience the Orthodox faith through Worship (Liturgia), Fellowship (Koinonia), Service (Diakonia) and Witness (Martyria). The group meets monthly for traditional religious lessons that offer present-day applications of Church teachings. The children and their advisors participate in community service and church projects throughout the year. Fun outings have included apple picking, fall harvest festival, the AHEPA House Christmas Show, pool parties, game nights and movies.
	St. Timothy’s Camp Organized by the Greek Orthodox parishes of upstate New York, St. Timothy’s Camp offers an opportunity for Christian fun and fellowship, and a place to deepen faith and commitment to Christ. Young people ages 8 through 18 (graduating high school seniors) are encouraged to attend St. Timothy’s Camp with a sense of adventure and a desire to grow spiritually, mentally and physically. In addition, a young adult group has been established, for ages 19 to 22, to develop their spiritual growth and knowledge of their faith while attending college or beginning a new career. Parents driving their children to camp may stay Saturday evening for a $50 per-person fee, which includes Saturday dinner, overnight barrack-style accommodations, and Sunday Liturgy followed by brunch. Due to limited accommodations, only staff, counselors and campers may spend the week.  For more details, visit www.sttimothycamp.org.