Youth Programs
“And that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15
Young Families
“Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” Proverbs 22:6
As the Church encourages children to be engaged in the life of the Church, parents must also feel engaged to enter the community. Mothers and fathers with young children gather in fellowship while encouraging our children to become acquainted with and grow in the faith from a young age. Gathering once a month at varying locations, Young Families is a fruitful and exciting ministry for young families to participate in the life of the Church. Please contact Presvytera Stephanie Kocolas for additional information.
JOY
Junior Orthodox Youth
“Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3
Junior Orthodox Youth (JOY) is composed of students from second to fifth grades and offers exciting gatherings for JOY students and their siblings. Each month a different family hosts an afternoon of food, fellowship and arts & crafts. Families are welcome to stay or drop off their children so our youth can continue to cultivate friendships with one another.
GOYA
Greek Orthodox Youth of America
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example of the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
As middle school and high school students continue to be exposed to various temptations and stresses in their lives, it becomes even more critical to keep them engaged with the life of the Church. Every month, Jr. GOYA and GOYA gather for various fellowship opportunities and faith-based discussions. In addition, they participate monthly in Bay Area GOYA activities that comprise of students from all over the Bay Area. All of these gatherings facilitate an environment of openness so our youth always feel part of their Church and NOC community with the hopes that they will continue to be examples of love and faith in purity.
Young Adults
“Trust in God with all your heart.” Proverbs 3:5
A recent study found sixty percent of students who leave for college, don’t come back to the Church. At Nativity of Christ, we are trying to change that paradigm with monthly gatherings that consist of social activities and spiritual discussions. Monthly YAL events and quarterly Bay Area Young Adult trips are also an opportunity for college students and young professionals to trust in God and stay engaged in the life of the Church. Contact Jenny Walters for more information.