I asked the question last week, “What does the church have to offer to youth and their parents when they do make more of an effort to get involved in the life of a parish?” The typical answers are; our services, our church school, and any youth activities a parish may sponsor. Yet, I think a key aspect to having … Read More

There are two calendars that many Orthodox Christians observe during the year: the public school calendar and the liturgical calendar. The attention given to these two has a significant impact on how well-connected kids are to their local church and their experience of parish life. If children are involved in several sports activities or musical programs at school, chances are … Read More

I was at the FOCA convention in Columbus, OH this past weekend. At their assembly, Dimitrios Rentel gave a presentation of the Youth Survey he has been conducting with our parishes. So far over 1600 people have responded. He also spent the summer visiting some of our camps and attending other youth-oriented activities. He spoke with many of our youth … Read More

There are two things to remember in addressing death with our children. First, if a parent is uncomfortable speaking on this issue, then do not try to discuss this with your child. Speak first with your parish priest. He might be able to help you work through your own discomfort. Once that is done and you are at peace, then … Read More

I remember when death came into our family for the first time. I was about 12 years old when my mother’s first cousin passed away. I was not prepared to deal with how my relatives dealt with death in Greek culture. When we went to the home of my mother’s first cousin, his wife and a few other women were … Read More

Once again last week we were stunned with the news of two incidents (two days in a row) of mass shootings in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio. I believe a total of 48 people were killed and many more wounded as result of these acts of gun violence. One can certainly understand how people would be afraid for their … Read More

Here are ten more things to add to the list of concrete things families can do to make the invisible God visible in family home life. Read the daily life of a saint. One source for this can be found on the OCA web page. It most cases it doesn’t take too long to read. Go out for a family … Read More

Last week I began a list of concrete ways families can make the invisible God visible in daily family life. This week, I am adding a few more items to that list. To make the invisible God visible in the Christian home do: 11.  Attend Vespers on Saturday and Liturgy on Sunday. 12.  Remind and teach your children of the … Read More