The Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, a diocese of the Orthodox Church in America, is under the omophorion of The Most Reverend Mark (Maymon), Archbishop of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania.

The Mission of The Orthodox Church in America, the local autocephalous Orthodox Christian Church, is to be faithful in fulfilling the commandment of Christ to “Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…”

The Department of Youth Ministries of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania is dedicated to fostering the spiritual growth, formation, and fellowship of Orthodox Christian youth throughout the Diocese. Under the guidance of the Diocesan Hierarch, Youth Ministries provides young people with opportunities to deepen their relationship with Christ, grow in their understanding of the Orthodox Christian faith, and build lasting friendships with other Orthodox youth.

Through Summer Camp, Fall and Winter Teen Retreats, and other programs and activities, Youth Ministries creates welcoming environments in which young people can pray, worship, learn, serve, and enjoy fellowship together. These shared experiences help strengthen their connection to the Church and encourage them to carry the Orthodox faith into their homes, schools, parishes, and daily lives.

As His Eminence Archbishop Mark has said, “Through the program our youth not only learn about their faith, have fellowship with other Orthodox youth, but have the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships. These relationships and their experience help solidify their relationship to Christ and the Church.”

Guided by this vision, the Department of Youth Ministries seeks to support the young people of the Diocese during every stage of their spiritual development. By cultivating a strong sense of Orthodox Christian community, fellowship, and spiritual renewal, Youth Ministries helps equip them to remain active in the life of the Church and to grow as faithful disciples of Christ.