Youth Ministries
Inspiration, Education, and Fun!
Youth ministries help lay the foundation for our Christian Orthodox faith by teaching children to become lifelong followers of Christ, growing in Him through faith-based programs and fun fellowship activities. Embedding good spiritual habits and biblical knowledge during childhood helps develop Christ-centered kids and Christ-centered families.
All parish youth are invited and encouraged to join our Church’s ministries. Adult volunteers are always welcome and needed to assist in leadership and assistant positions. Special event details are posted on the parish website, our Facebook page, in the Sunday Bulletin, and sent via email newsletter communications. If you have any questions, please contact the Church office.
JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth)
The spiritual growth of our younger parishioners is of great importance, and JOY is dedicated to presenting our Faith to our 3 - 5 graders in an approachable, fun and hands-on manner. JOY members, and their families, regularly participate in Family Nights alongside our GOYAns. In addition, periodic outings (ice-skating, bowling, sporting events and more) are on our yearly agenda.
Advisors: Presvytera Terry Bebis & Ms. Joannie Lineman
GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America)
Through our GOYA Ministry, we strive to provide a fun, safe and uplifting environment where teenagers in grades 6-12 can experience the Orthodox Christian Faith, grow and develop personally and emotionally, and make lasting friendships. GOYA events happen twice per month with one Tuesday evening lesson with games at the Church, and one Sunday afternoon service project or fun outing. Teen leadership opportunities are available as well, under the caring guidance of advisors and mentors.
Coordinators: Marisa Dardagiannopoulos, Tina Alexopoulos
Metropolis of Boston Camp
The Metropolis of Boston Camp (MBC) offers its sterling ministry to campers ages 8-18 on the campus of the St. Methodios Faith & Heritage Center, in Contoocook, NH. Summer, fall, and winter programs are available, offering a unique, creative and meaningful supplement to our youth ministry and program efforts at St. Philip.
Altar Servers
Opportunities to participate in the liturgical life of the church are available to our young women and men throughout the year. The role of service in the Altar is open to all Orthodox Christian young men, ages 10 — 18, who have appropriate reverence and respect for the altar and would like to learn more about the Divine Liturgy and the liturgical life of our Church.
Coordinator: Dan Gioffre
Religious Education
Our children (Pre-K — 12th grade) are invited to participate in our religious education program each Sunday during the regular school year. Classes begin after Holy Communion and conclude at 11:45 am, at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy . Our children are blessed with caring, dedicated teachers who guide classes and arrange a variety of activities throughout the year, including food drives, the annual Nativity Pageant, Godparent Sunday, the Holy Friday Retreat and a host of fun outings and gatherings.
Director: Tippy Johnston
Greek School
Greek Dance Group
Our dancers practice after Divine Liturgy from late fall through spring and participate in various exhibitions at schools, community events and right here at St. Philip, including our annual Greek Food Festival! They have lots of fun and learn about the history of cultural dances and the significance of this form of artistic expression. Children ages 10-18 are encouraged to join.
Coordinator: Thanasi Miris
YOUTH SAFETY AND PROTECTION
At St. Philip, anyone interacting with our youth must undergo and must pass a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check, and complete the Archdiocese Youth Safety Training Program for the protection of participating parish youth. If you are interested in leading or supporting any youth ministry programs, please contact the office for information regarding training procedures.
Contact: Cheryl Petren
