GOYA: Greek Orthodox Youth of America
GRADES 7-12
GOYA Advisor: Chrissy Katsapis - stlukesgoya@gmail.com
Assistant Advisors: Denise Paschos
GOYA OFFICERS for 2022-2023
President - Kyra Pylaras
1st VP - Evanthia Greco
2nd VP - Marianna Kevgas
Recording Sec'y - Eleni Paschos
Corresponding Sec'y - Faye Mackrides
Treasurer - Maria Kaltsides
Age Guidelines:
The Greek Orthodox Youth of America, or GOYA, ministers
to teenagers in the seventh to twelfth grades.
Our Mission:
The mission and goal of the GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America) ministry, is to lead our young people, into experiencing the Holy Orthodox Faith. By developing a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and becoming active sacramental members of the living Church, our young people will be equipped with tools necessary to assist them in their journey through life. GOYA gives our youth the opportunity to share, learn and grow spiritually while having fun. The National Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries recommends that the GOYA ministry be based on the following four characteristics: Worship (Liturgia), Fellowship (Koinonoia), Service (Diakonia), and Witness (Martyria). These characteristics are exemplified by attending and serving during liturgy, fellowship in fun activities, doing out reach activities and doing community service projects to those in need.
The Umbrella of GOYA:
In our youth program here at St Luke we have many groups that are also an integral part of our community life. Altar Boys are an important part of our liturgical life. Greek Dance Group help our young people keep their ethnic heritage, Basket Ball helps keep the body sharp along with the mind.
Any young person that is in the 7th grade on up is welcome to join GOYA. For further information please contact Chrissy Katsapis at chriskat9@comcast.net or email us at stlukesgoya@gmail.com.
Look for our calendar of events next month in your Epistle
GOYA CODE OF CONDUCT:
Parents Responsibilities
Parents, in the event your child needs to be dismissed from any type of GOYA event before it ends, please be sure to communicate that information with the advisors and be sure to get a verbal or electronic communication from them 24 hours in advance. Our youths advisors primary concern is the well being of your child and your child will not be permitted to leave without prior communication from you.
Cell Phones
Texting is not allowed during meetings or during an event when adults are communicating information to the youth entrusted to the advisors care. Cell phones need to be turned off during meetings or when formal conversations are taking place. GOYAns will be given one warning. The second time cell phones will be taken away until the end of the meeting or formal gathering when information is being given to them.
Gaming Devices
Gaming devices are not permitted under any circumstances during meetings or when adults are communicating information to the youth. If they are being used at such times, they will be taken away until the meeting or event is over.
