MISSION AND GOAL OF JOY MINISTRY
The mission and goal of the JOY 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 towards salvation. By laying a foundation of faith at this age, the young people will have something that will guide and strengthen them as they progress into junior high and high school.

WHO IT SERVES
The Junior Orthodox Youth, or JOY, is the ministry to 3rd through 6th grade children of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Since JOY is a ministry, the orientation and implementation of the program should reflect the Orthodox Christian Faith, Tradition, and Life.

YOUTH MINISTRY FOUNDATION
The foundation of all youth ministry is the cultivation and education of our young people in order to become viable members of the Body of Christ. JOY is but one means to the end. JOY must not stand alone, but be incorporated into the entire sphere of the Church's mission.

A child's world is changing rapidly - it is virtually impossible to keep up with every new trend and movement of their culture. Growing up in today's society is a much more difficult task than it was in previous times. Our young people are being shaped by negative and destructive influences, ones that can and will define who they are and what they will become. Childhood is slipping away at an alarmingly early age. For this reason, the positive teachings of the Orthodox Church must become a living presence in their lives. This makes the ministry to our children a necessity.

The Cathedral has a very active Joy Ministry. Please contact Denise Yeilding by email if you have any questions.