GOYA
GOYA stands for Greek Orthodox Youth of America and is a ministry program for 7th-12thgrade youth. The mission of GOYA Ministry is to strengthen the relationship of young Orthodox Christians with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The program works to educate and edify young members of the Church, encouraging them to become active sacramental participants in the life of the Body of Christ. This ministry offers them the opportunity to experience the Faith, ultimately leading them to Salvation.
Belonging to GOYA Ministry depends solely on being an Orthodox Christian. The teenagers are not classified as members or non-members—if they are members of the Faith, they belong! That is, they are participants rather than members. If non-Orthodox teenagers wish to participate in the ministry, welcome and offer ministry to them. Encourage them to participate in the program and explain to them that the Sacraments are only for baptized and/or chrismated members of the Orthodox Church. There have been many instances of entire families converting to Orthodoxy because of their young person’s involvement in GOYA Ministry.
It meets once a month on Sunday after Church for food, fellowship, and learning. GOYA also has many events throughout the year, including regional volleyball, dodgeball, Lenten Retreat, and Olympic style tournaments.
Primary Contact: Effie Christodoulakis, Joanna Kapralos, Bill Filides, Vicky Garifalis, and Rini Xilas (727) 799-4605
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