Y2AM Reflection: “To Lay One’s Life Down”
Dear Y2AM Family,
Christ is Risen!
On this Memorial Day, let us honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. As our Lord Jesus Christ teaches in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” In the light of this profound truth, we see the courageous acts of our fallen heroes as a reflection of Christ’s own sacrificial love.
In this spirit, let us not only remember but also take action. Reach out to the families of the fallen, offering them support and comfort. Volunteer your time to serve veterans and those currently serving in the Armed Forces. Engage in acts of kindness within your community, reflecting the love and selflessness that our heroes demonstrated.
As we pray for the souls of those who have given their lives, let us also pray for the healing and strength of their loved ones, entrusting them to the mercy and love of our compassionate God. May we strive to emulate the virtues of bravery and sacrifice in our daily lives, ever mindful of the great cost of our freedom. May their memories be eternal, and let our actions be a testament to their enduring legacy.
In the Risen Lord,
The National Y2AM Department
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!
Summer can only mean one thing… It’s CAMP TIME!
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is richly blessed with 22 Orthodox Christian Summer Camp programs across the U.S. and Greece, serving nearly 5000 campers annually.
Orthodox Christian Summer camps are transformative experiences for young people, offering them a unique opportunity to grow in their faith while building lifelong friendships. In a nurturing and spiritually enriching environment, campers immerse themselves in the teachings of the Orthodox Church, participate in daily worship, and engage in activities that reinforce their spiritual and personal development. These camps cultivate a truly Christ-centered community and sense of belonging, helping youth form a strong, resilient faith that will guide them throughout their lives. We encourage parents to send their children to these invaluable programs, knowing they will return with a deeper connection to their faith and a renewed spirit. Additionally, we invite dedicated individuals to apply to serve on staff, playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Orthodox Christians. By supporting and participating in these camps, we ensure that our youth have the foundation they need to grow into faithful, committed members of the Church.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Ionian Village and all of the incredible Metropolis and Parish Summer Camps across the Archdiocese.
We also encourage you to consider offering your support to the Archbishop Elpidophoros Camping Scholarship Fund. This fund was established to provide needs-based scholarships for the summer of 2024 and to establish an initial fund functioning as an Endowment for future camping scholarships. Let us come together to ensure these enriching experiences are accessible to all young people.
National YAL Conference in San Diego, CA | July 3-7, 2024
Hotel Registration Deadline is May 31, 2024.
Space is limited for this year’s Conference. Register TODAY!
Follow the National YAL Conference on social media! @yalnationalconference
Join us in San Diego, California, from July 3-7, 2024, at The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, for five days of unparalleled experiences in faith, fellowship, worship, and service. Book your hotel reservation with our discounted YAL room rate before the deadline, Friday, May 31st.
🔥Final Registration – Fireworks!
Registration is still open with limited spots remaining, we are now on the final registration tier – Fireworks! Register today before you miss out on an incredible weekend with your friends and YAL family!
How to Get Register:
Visit www.clergylaity.org/yalconference to secure your spot. Registration is inclusive of all meals, events, workshops, and transportation during the Conference! From a dinner cruise on San Diego harbor to the Big Bay Boom firework show, an afternoon at Coronado Beach, and much more, we cannot wait to show you what we have in store!
To explore YAL Sponsorship Opportunities, kindly visit the Clergy-Laity/YAL Sponsorships page to offer a donation. Your contribution will play a crucial role in impacting and empowering young adults within the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
YAL Registration – Click Here!
YOUTH SAFETY – News and Updates
Are you a Youth Worker or Parish Youth Safety Administrator? Join one or more of the Summer Office Hour sessions using these links.
Day Hours:
Evening Hours:
The Youth Safety Department and Sterling Volunteers have set up designated support lines to address specific needs regarding registration, training, or screening.
Check out this graphic for the up-to-date contact information.
Please direct all questions regarding Youth Safety to youthsafety@goarch.org.
