Our Youth Ministry Programs

G.O.Y.A.

G.O.Y.A. (Greek Orthodox Youth of America) is the ministry for teenagers, aged 12 through 17.

Since G.O.Y.A. is a ministry, the orientation and implementation of the program should reflect the Orthodox Christian Faith, Tradition and Life. G.O.Y.A. is ministry to middle and high school grade Orthodox Christian teenagers.

By developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and becoming active sacramental members of the living Church, our young people will be equipped with tools necessary to assist them in their journey toward salvation.

Altar Boys

Altar boys, also known as acolytes, are unordained males whose purpose it is to assist the priests and deacons during the service. 

While Orthodox Church services are going on, you may notice that there are often several people performing various duties. Someone might be lighting a candle or holding a cross. Another might be preparing the charcoal for the incense. Still others might be called on to hold the basket of bread at the end of the service or during Holy Communion. In other words, there might be several altar boys serving during church.

For example, the altar boys could prepare the charcoal and incense prior to when the priest needs to cense during the service. They could also light candles, hold crosses, hold the bread, and walk in processions around the church. Their main function is to assist the priest during the service.

Myrofores

Young ladies ages 8-16 are welcome to join the Myrofores.

The name “Myrofores” designates the Myrrh-bearing women who went to the tomb of Jesus Christ early on the first day of the week to complete the burial rites that were postponed for the Sabbath.  The Myrrh-bearing women were: Mary Magdalene; Mary, the mother of James and Joses; Mary, the wife of Cleopas; Martha of Bethany, Sister of Lazarus; Mary of Bethany, Sister of Lazarus; Joanna, the wife of Chuza the steward of Herod Antipas; Salome, the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee; and Susanna.

At Saint George we invite all young ladies ages 8-17 to be part of the Myrofores. The girls participate in the procession of the Icon of the Nymphios on Palm Sunday evening; process and stand watch at the Cross on Holy Thursday evening; and stand watch at the Epitaphios on Holy Friday evening.

During the year, members of Myrofores greet parishioners and visitors as the come into the Narthex of Saint George.

Greek Dance

We are committed to the art and craft of Greek folk dancing.

As part of the Parish’s outreach to the youth, our classes not only teach discipline in the different styles of Greek dance, but we also intertwine the classes into church life. The artform of dance and the spiritual life of the church creates a unique balance that helps enrich the lives of those in the program.

Our classes will resume as soon as it is safe for individuals to participate in group classes.