JR GOYA
Dedicated to our Jr. High (grades 6 to 8) parishioners, Jr. GOYA provides a vibrant and supportive space where young people can continue to grow in their Orthodox faith. Building on the spiritual, moral, and social foundations established in JOY, Jr. GOYA helps participants navigate the unique challenges of early adolescence—a time of curiosity, identity formation, and increasing independence. Through faith-centered learning, meaningful fellowship, and opportunities for service and leadership, Jr. GOYA guides our youth as they explore who they are in Christ, develop lasting friendships, and learn to make choices rooted in faith, love, and community. This transitional stage is approached with care, encouragement, and intentional programming designed to nurture both spiritual growth and personal development, preparing our young people to step confidently into their teenage years.
KEY COMPONENTS
CURRICULUM
Faith-centered learning tailored to the cognitive and emotional development of grades 6–8.
Focus on foundational Orthodox teachings, scripture, lives of the saints, liturgical understanding, and prayer practices.
Integrates real-life application, moral reasoning, and decision-making relevant to early adolescence.
RESOURCES
Age-appropriate Orthodox study guides, videos, and books.
Access to mentors, clergy, and parish staff for guidance and support.
Digital tools: apps or online platforms for scripture study, event reminders, and community building.
Materials for arts, crafts, and service-based projects to engage hands-on learning.
COMMUNITY
Safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment fostering belonging and peer support.
Mentorship opportunities with high school GOYAns and adult leaders.
Encourage strong connections between Jr. GOYA members, parish, and family life.
ACTIVITIES
Faith-based activities: prayer circles, scripture reflection, service projects, and saint biography presentations.
Social activities: retreats, game nights, movie nights, team-building challenges, and icebreakers.
Leadership development: small group leadership roles, planning parish events, assisting with younger Sunday School students.
Community service: volunteering at parish events, helping with charity drives, and participating in local service projects.
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TEACHING
Age-appropriate methods: interactive discussions, storytelling, visual aids, and multimedia.
Emphasis on modeling faith through lived examples rather than just lectures.
Encourage reflective questioning, critical thinking, and personal connection to Orthodox beliefs.
Small group discussions to facilitate sharing and relationship-building.
ASSESSMENT & FEEDBACK
Informal: group reflections, peer discussions, and adult observation to gauge engagement and growth.
Formal: self-assessment questionnaires on faith understanding, spiritual habits, and social-emotional development.
Regular feedback loops between leaders, parents, and participants to ensure activities and teachings meet the needs of Jr. High students.
Encourage goal-setting and personal growth tracking for both faith and community involvement.
JR 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.
JR GOYA Advisor
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I'm very excited to be leading Jr. GOYA! My favorite thing so far is getting to know the friendly little faces in church as it’s also my first year attending St Athanasios. I look forward to guiding the younger generation to love and celebrate the Lord!
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