OYM

What an incredible year it has been!

As we reflect on the past year, we are reminded of God’s blessings and continued guidance over the work of Orthodox Youth and Young Adult Ministries (OYM).

The work we have been able to accomplish this past year is not a reflection of what we have done, but rather a reflection of what our ministry leaders and clergy, parents and families, and youth adults have done.

We wouldn’t have been able to do it without you. We are dedicated to serving you and committed to helping young individuals grow closer to Christ and experience the richness of life in the Orthodox church.

Only 2 days till Youth & Young Adult Sunday!

Youth and Young Adult Sunday 2026 will be observed this Sunday, September 27, 2026. Read more about the day, including this year’s encyclical from His Grace Bishop Thomas and a letter from OYM’s Executive Director, Dr. Christopher Krampe. You can also download a special flyer to share OYM’s offerings with your parish!

Learn more here: https://www.theoym.org/post/orthodox-parishes-across-the-united-states-to-observe-youth-and-young-adult-sunday-on-september-27

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this month’s Orthodox Roundtable with Dr. Ary Christofidis! We had an important discussion focused on navigating mental health challenges, specifically anxiety and depression, from an Orthodox perspective. It was powerful to see so many young adults come together to break the silence on these crucial topics.

We look forward to seeing you next month, and extend a special thank you to our host, Sts. Constantine and Helen Romanian Orthodox Cathedral in Chicago, for welcoming us and providing a wonderful space for this gathering!

Helping our young people find joy in Christ is a calling for our entire Church body. Whether you’re a parent, parish leader, priest, or dedicated parishioner, you have a vital role to play in keeping our youth connected to the Faith.

Here are 3 simple ways you can bring OYM’s ministry support directly to your local parish:

- Speak to your parish about prioritizing the spiritual needs of youth and young adults.
- Partner financially by asking your priest about hosting a parish collection for OYM.
- Share OYM's online toolkits and materials with your parish network.

How is your parish engaging young people this season?

Our youth and young adults are not just the future of the Church—they are a vital part of the Body of Christ right now.

On this Youth and Young Adult Ministry Sunday, we invite our entire Orthodox community to step up, encourage, and lift up our youth and young adults.
Swipe through for 5 simple ways you and your parish can participate—from organizing a Prayer Hike to hosting a Godparent Project watch party! ➡️

How is your parish participating in Youth and Young Adult Sunday?

🔗 Find toolkits, links, and ways to give at whatsyourministry.org.

Join the 20th Annual Walk the Walk for IOCC 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, October 3rd at St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago! Registration opens at 8:00 AM, the run/walk kicks off at 9:00 AM, and breakfast will follow the race. Register early at iocc.org/chicago by September 18th to secure your t-shirt and discounted rate. Let’s come together to make a difference for those in need around the world! Register today: https://give.iocc.org/event/chicago-20th-annual-walk-the-walk-for-iocc/e815683

Mark your calendars for Youth and Young Adult Sunday on September 27, 2026! Join Orthodox Youth Ministries and parishes worldwide as we highlight and uplift the vital role of youth and young adults in the life of the Church. Support our work at theoym.org/donate.

Looking to deepen your faith, make lasting connections, and grow alongside other Orthodox young adults? Join us for the Salt of the Earth Orthodox Young Adult Formation Conference!

Dates: Thursday, October 22 – Sunday, October 25

Location: 2026 W Oak St, Denton, TX 76201

Whether you're looking for spiritual direction, inspiring lectures, or meaningful fellowship, this weekend is designed to help you live out your faith to the best of your ability. Register here: https://the-temple-steps.raiselysite.com

“O Lord, save Your people and bless Your inheritance! Grant victories to the Orthodox Christians over their adversaries, and by virtue of Your Cross, preserve Your habitation.”

Today we celebrate the Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross. Finding its strength not in earthly power, but in Christ’s self-emptying love, the Cross stands as our victory over death and our weapon of peace.

Let us take up our own crosses, knowing that the Cross always leads to the Light of the Resurrection.

Check out this activity you can do with the family for the Feast:
https://wymoym.org/Exaltation-of-the-Cross-Activity

St. John Chrysostom reminds us of the eternal strength and beauty found in the Church. No matter what changes around us, the Church remains our steady anchor and source of daily renewal.