GOYA
The Greek Orthodox Youth of America (GOYA) is our parish ministry for high school members (grades 9–12), providing a dynamic environment where young people can grow in faith, fellowship, and service. GOYA’s mission is to guide participants in experiencing the richness of the Orthodox Faith, helping them develop a deep and personal relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Through active participation in the sacraments, parish life, and faith-based activities, our young people are equipped with spiritual, moral, and practical tools to navigate the challenges of adolescence and prepare for a lifelong journey toward salvation. GOYA places a strong emphasis on helping youth understand their identity in Christ, encouraging them to see themselves as beloved children of God, called to live according to His teachings. By exploring Scripture, the lives of the saints, and Orthodox traditions, participants gain insight into their unique gifts, purpose, and role within the Body of Christ. GOYA fosters leadership, service, and community, encouraging youth to live out their faith boldly, strengthen their Orthodox identity, and become active, contributing members of the Church and the world around them.
KEY COMPONENTS
CURRICULUM
Focus on deepening understanding of Orthodox theology, scripture, liturgical life, and the lives of the saints.
Encourage reflection on contemporary moral and ethical challenges from an Orthodox perspective.
Include leadership development, service opportunities, and discussions on applying faith in daily life.
RESOURCES
Orthodox study materials: books, articles, multimedia, and digital resources tailored for high school students.
Access to parish clergy, mentors, and youth ministry leaders for guidance.
Tools for service and leadership projects: event planning guides, community outreach resources, and organizational support.
Online platforms for communication, event coordination, and faith-based discussions.
COMMUNITY
Cultivate a supportive, inclusive, and faith-centered peer group.
Build mentorship relationships with adult parish leaders and older GOYAns.
Foster long-lasting friendships and connections to the parish community through retreats, events, and service projects.
ASSESSMENTS
Informal: observation of participation, engagement in discussions, and leadership in activities.
Reflective: journaling, personal faith goal tracking, and small-group sharing.
Project-based: evaluation of service projects, event planning, and ministry involvement.
Spiritual milestones: participation in sacraments, prayer life development, and understanding of Orthodox teachings.
TEACHING
Interactive, discussion-based learning encourages critical thinking and personal reflection.
Use real-life scenarios, case studies, and group problem-solving to explore faith in action.
Guest speakers, clergy-led discussions, and small group forums for mentorship and dialogue.
Encourage youth to lead sessions, share testimonies, and facilitate peer-led activities.
FEEDBACK
Regular check-ins with youth to discuss spiritual growth, challenges, and goals.
Mentorship conversations with adult leaders and peers for guidance and encouragement.
Surveys or reflection forms to assess program effectiveness and participant satisfaction.
Opportunities for youth to provide feedback on activities, teaching methods, and community events to foster shared ownership of the ministry.
GOYA CALENDAR
MEET THE GOYA LEADERS
Youth Director
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Hi, I’m Voula, and I’m excited to be serving as Youth Director here at Saint Athanasios, where I also serve as Sunday School Director. My connection to our parish runs deep—my grandparents were founding members, and my family’s milestones, including my marriage and my children’s baptisms, have all been celebrated here.
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I hold a degree in English/Secondary Education, a Special Education endorsement, and an MBA, all from Aurora University. I’ve served in higher education as Associate Director of Freshman Enrollment before teaching at Geneva Middle School. For years, I’ve felt called to serve Christ by guiding young people in their academic, personal, and spiritual growth, including my years serving as our parish’s high school Sunday School teacher.
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I am committed to creating a welcoming environment where our youth can explore their faith, deepen their relationship with God, and navigate the challenges of the modern world with Christ at the center. My goal is to help each student feel seen, valued, and empowered to live out their faith in practical ways. I strive to provide meaningful experiences that foster spiritual growth, encourage community and service, and build confidence in their gifts and talents. Ultimately, I hope to inspire young people to develop a lifelong love of Christ, strengthen their connection to our parish family, and grow into compassionate, faith-filled Orthodox Christians.
GOYA Advisor
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I bring 23 years of experience in middle school education, with the majority of my career dedicated to teaching mathematics. For the past four years, I have served as an instructional coach, supporting teachers in creating engaging, effective, and student-centered learning experiences. I am deeply committed to fostering both academic growth and social-emotional development, ensuring that students feel supported and empowered. This year, I have also taken on the role of GOYA advisor at St. Athanasios, where I am eager to help high school students strengthen their faith, cultivate meaningful friendships, and grow as future leaders in their community.
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