The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will host a Youth Worker Workshop on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Oakland, California.
Designed as a practical day of formation, the workshop will equip and encourage those who serve the youth of the Church through meaningful presentations, hands-on learning, practical resources, and opportunities to collaborate with fellow ministry leaders from throughout the Bay Area.
The workshop is open to all who are involved in parish youth ministry, including clergy, youth directors, GOYA advisors, Sunday Church School teachers, volunteers, athletic coaches, dance directors, and others who work closely with children... show moreThe Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will host a Youth Worker Workshop on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Oakland, California.
Designed as a practical day of formation, the workshop will equip and encourage those who serve the youth of the Church through meaningful presentations, hands-on learning, practical resources, and opportunities to collaborate with fellow ministry leaders from throughout the Bay Area.
The workshop is open to all who are involved in parish youth ministry, including clergy, youth directors, GOYA advisors, Sunday Church School teachers, volunteers, athletic coaches, dance directors, and others who work closely with children and young people in the life of the Church.
Throughout the day, participants will hear from experienced presenters on a variety of topics relevant to youth ministry, engage in interactive learning sessions, develop practical skills, and receive resources they can immediately implement in their home parishes. In addition to the educational sessions, the workshop will provide opportunities to build relationships with others who share a commitment to nurturing the faith of the next generation.
The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 4700 Lincoln Avenue, Oakland, California. Meals and refreshments will be provided throughout the day. The group will also join in prayer beginning with Orthros in the morning, and concluding with Great Vespers, followed by dinner on the Platea at the Ascension Cathedral.
Registration will open in September 2026.
For additional information, please contact Anna Teodosiadis, Metropolis Parish Youth Ministry Advisor, at ateodosiadis@sanfran.goarch.org.
Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension
4700 Lincoln Ave
Oakland, CA 94602-2535
Celebrating Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church, Honoring Robin and Greg Sirakides For their dedication and contributions to Prophet Elias for over 42 years.
All proceeds from this wonderful event will go toward repairing the interior damage to the church caused by roof leaks. We pray to raise $20,000 through your generous donations and auction item participation.
$100 PER PERSON. LIMITED SEATING
PLEASE RSVP BY NOVEMBER 6TH TO GEORGIA CHRONOPOULOS, 831.818.7231 or georgiaic59@aol.com
Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church
223 CHURCH STREET, SANTA CRUZ
Want to learn some new ethnic cultural dances for all of our events & all the festivals around the bay? Look no further!
⏰ We’ll start with a social hour with snacks & drinks @ 5:30pm, have prayer & dinner at 6:00, and will start our dance lessons at 6:30pm!
Dances include: Serbian, Greek, Arab, others!
We’ll have one of our members lead the short ~5min instruction for each culture’s dance, and everyone will take it away from there! 💃🪩🕺
Dinner will be catered, but it’s all organized by us for us! Please pitch in what you can to cover costs, and we’ll be able to host more events like these in the future 🙏
Please join us for the annual Chian Society of California, Agia Markella Chapter, Dinner Dance on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at the St. Nicholas Community Center.
No-host cocktails at 6:00pm, dinner at 7:00pm; live music from Chios, Greece accompanied by Mythos band; tickets for adults $100, children 10 and under $35; tickets can be purchased online using the link below:
Proceeds benefit various charities and also organizations on the island of Chios. For more information or tickets, please contact Nick Pries at 408-398-7070 or Angie Kozas at 510-387-2057.
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos invite the faithful to gather for Light the Path – A Christmas Reception, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Centre, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, California. The annual event will benefit the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund, which provides financial assistance to seminarians and students from the Metropolis of San Francisco attending Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. Make your reservations and donations here! (https://donate.onecause.com/light-the-path-2026)
Established in 1984 through the vision of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony of blessed... show moreHis Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos invite the faithful to gather for Light the Path – A Christmas Reception, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Centre, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, California. The annual event will benefit the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund, which provides financial assistance to seminarians and students from the Metropolis of San Francisco attending Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. Make your reservations and donations here! (donate.onecause.com/light-the-…
Established in 1984 through the vision of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony of blessed memory and the Metropolis Philoptochos, the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund has provided vital assistance to generations of students preparing to serve the Church. Today, 60 students from the Metropolis of San Francisco are enrolled at Hellenic College Holy Cross, making continued support of this important ministry especially significant.
“Supporting our seminarians and students is an investment in the future of our Church,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “Through Light the Path, we have the opportunity to encourage these dedicated young men and women as they pursue their education and prepare for lives of service. I remain deeply grateful to our Metropolis Philoptochos and to the faithful throughout our Metropolis whose generosity continues to strengthen this important ministry.”
Over the past decade alone, the Metropolis Philoptochos has contributed over $2 million toward the educational expenses of Metropolis students. Philoptochos chapters also personally support students by “adopting” them throughout the academic year, maintaining connections through encouraging messages, care packages and gifts. Members of the Metropolis Philoptochos Board travel annually to Brookline, Massachusetts, to celebrate the students and their achievements at Hellenic College Holy Cross Commencement.
The financial demands facing students are substantial. Annual tuition is currently $21,940, with additional expenses for housing, meals, books and student fees. Light the Path helps ease these burdens so students may remain focused on their education, spiritual formation and preparation for service to the Church.
“Light the Path is about more than financial assistance. It is about letting our students know that their Metropolis family believes in them and is walking beside them,” stated Metropolis Philoptochos President Jeannie Ranglas. “We are blessed by their commitment to the Church, and it is our privilege to help them pursue the calling God has placed before them.”
The 2026 Light the Path gathering will offer an afternoon of fellowship while raising awareness and support for this enduring ministry of the Metropolis Philoptochos. Sponsorships and donations are encouraged, providing individuals, families, parishes and Philoptochos chapters with an opportunity to directly support the education of the future clergy and lay leaders of the Church.
For additional information about Light the Path, sponsorship opportunities or donations, please visit the Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos website (www.sfphiloptochos.org/), call 415-431-2600, or email office@sfphiloptochos.org.
The Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the continuation of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on “To Prepare: Healthy Catechism for Newcomers” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father George Parsenios and Dr. Don Khouri.
This webinar is hosted by the Metropolis of Boston Thriving Congregations Initiative (TCI) and responds to a growing reality across Orthodox parishes in the United States: increasing numbers of inquirers and converts, many of whom arrive after self-directed online learning. The... show moreThe Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the continuation of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on “To Prepare: Healthy Catechism for Newcomers” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father George Parsenios and Dr. Don Khouri.
This webinar is hosted by the Metropolis of Boston Thriving Congregations Initiative (TCI) and responds to a growing reality across Orthodox parishes in the United States: increasing numbers of inquirers and converts, many of whom arrive after self-directed online learning. The session will explore how parishes can offer catechism that is not only a transfer of information but an opening of Orthodox spiritual practice. With limited clergy and a shortage of trained catechists, the webinar will highlight sustainable models that involve lay leaders, peer support, and integration into the liturgical and communal life of the parish. Emphasis will be placed on moving newcomers from knowledge to participation, helping them develop relationships, spiritual practices, and a lived experience of Orthodoxy. Drawing from TCI parish examples, this session will equip communities to form newcomers in a way that is scalable, relational, and deeply rooted in the life of the Church.
Miracles, and Pilgrimage (6:15pm-6:50pm) followed by food and fellowship in the St. Nicholas Church main office conference room.
Office Address: 986 Chapman St. San Jose, CA 95126
If you plan to attend, please RSVP to ocf@saintnicholas.org, or contact the church office (408) 246-2770, so we may get an accurate
headcount for food. We hope to see you there!
Our monthly College Ministry meetings will begin with Fr. Nebojsa's class Orthodoxy 101 - Saints,
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Date 6
The topic for Thursday, November 19, 2026 is PLAY WITH ME ~ Fun and Adventure. Presenters: Fr. Tom, M.F.T., M.Div., and Presvytera Pat Tsagalakis
❦ Play and adventure are vital components to a successful and joyful relationship. It’s okay if you and your partner have different ideas about what constitutes play and adventure. The key is for you to respect each other’s sense of adventure and what it means to that partner.
More information on Eight... show moreThe Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Date 6
The topic for Thursday, November 19, 2026 is PLAY WITH ME ~ Fun and Adventure. Presenters: Fr. Tom, M.F.T., M.Div., and Presvytera Pat Tsagalakis
❦ Play and adventure are vital components to a successful and joyful relationship. It’s okay if you and your partner have different ideas about what constitutes play and adventure. The key is for you to respect each other’s sense of adventure and what it means to that partner.
More information on Eight Dates, visit the Metropolis Family Wellness Ministry website.
Do you lead a young adult ministry at your parish? Join our calls every other month to create community, overcome challenges, grow and connect with the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.
Email Anna Teodosiadis to receive an invitation and link to the meetings.
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Date 7
The topic for Thursday, December 3, 2026 is SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN ~ Growth and Spirituality. Presenter: Fr. Vasili Hillhouse, M.Div.
❦ The only constant in a relationship is change. The key is how each person in the relationship accommodates the growth of the other partner. Relationships can be more than just two individuals coming together—they can be stories of transformation and great contribution and meaning to the world.
More information... show moreThe Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Date 7
The topic for Thursday, December 3, 2026 is SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN ~ Growth and Spirituality. Presenter: Fr. Vasili Hillhouse, M.Div.
❦ The only constant in a relationship is change. The key is how each person in the relationship accommodates the growth of the other partner. Relationships can be more than just two individuals coming together—they can be stories of transformation and great contribution and meaning to the world.
More information on Eight Dates, visit the Metropolis Family Wellness Ministry website.
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Date 8
The topic for Thursday, December 10, 2026 is FINAL SESSION – A LIFETIME OF LOVE ~ Dreams Presenter: Dr. Nikki Frousakis
❦ When dreams are honored, everything else in the relationship gets easier. Honoring each other’s dreams is the secret ingredient to creating love for a lifetime.
More information on Eight Dates, visit the Metropolis Family Wellness Ministry website.
The Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the final segment of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on "To Embrace: Building the Orthodox Mindset & Adult Religious Education for the Newly Illumined" in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, December 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Thomas Zaferes and Dr. Eve Tibbs.
Becoming Orthodox is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a lifelong path of spiritual growth, learning, and transformation in Christ. Ongoing adult religious education is essential for continually deepening our... show moreThe Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the final segment of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on "To Embrace: Building the Orthodox Mindset & Adult Religious Education for the Newly Illumined" in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, December 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Thomas Zaferes and Dr. Eve Tibbs.
Becoming Orthodox is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a lifelong path of spiritual growth, learning, and transformation in Christ. Ongoing adult religious education is essential for continually deepening our understanding of Holy Scripture, the teachings of the Church, the Divine Liturgy, and the Orthodox way of life. Through consistent learning, discussion, and reflection, we strengthen our faith, grow in spiritual maturity, and better equip ourselves to live as faithful Orthodox Christians in today’s world.
Tonight’s session is designed to help parishes establish a practical and sustainable approach to ongoing adult religious education, one that fosters continual learning, strengthens discipleship, and supports the long-term spiritual growth of both newly illumined and lifelong Orthodox Christians alike.
Families from across the West Coast are invited to join us for Family Winter Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, December 27–30, 2026!
This special four-day camp, offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, is open to families of all ages and stages — from those with young children to college-aged and adult children, and even couples, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and close family friends. Everyone is welcome to come and be part of our greater Metropolis family.
Let’s come together this Nativity season to celebrate faith, family, and fellowship at our beloved St. Nicholas Ranch. Enjoy a wonderful weekend filled with fun, adventure, worship, and connection,... show moreFamilies from across the West Coast are invited to join us for Family Winter Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, December 27–30, 2026!
This special four-day camp, offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, is open to families of all ages and stages — from those with young children to college-aged and adult children, and even couples, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and close family friends. Everyone is welcome to come and be part of our greater Metropolis family.
Let’s come together this Nativity season to celebrate faith, family, and fellowship at our beloved St. Nicholas Ranch. Enjoy a wonderful weekend filled with fun, adventure, worship, and connection, as we grow closer to Christ and to one another.
We’ll have the opportunity to enjoy fellowship and fun winter activities at St. Nicholas Ranch, visit the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring, and take a trip up to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks to play in the snow or hike among the majestic giant sequoia trees.
With engaging activities for all ages, let’s ascend to the mountains and celebrate the final days of 2026 together at our beloved St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center — a time for joy, renewal, and family in the spirit of Christ’s Nativity.
● DATES: December 27-30, 2026
● LOCATION: St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, Dunlap, CA
● WHO: Open to the entire family! Youth under the age of 18 cannot attend without a parent or chaperon and must stay in a family room with their parent or chaperon over the age of 18.
● COST: $260 per person (includes 8 meals and program supplies). The price of your family lodging is an additional cost, which only one family member will need to pay for. Select from either a lodge or dorm room. Children 5 and under are free.
● REGISTRATION OPENS SOON: gosfyouth.org/family
Space is limited, so register today to secure your spot with a $100 deposit. ...show less
Do you lead a young adult ministry at your parish? Join our calls every other month to create community, overcome challenges, grow and connect with the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.
Email Anna Teodosiadis to receive an invitation and link to the meetings.
FDF 2027 is the 50th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Folk Dance & Choral Festival! This milestone marks five decades of bringing generations together to celebrate our heritage, culture, and faith. We are committed to making this year memorable, while honoring this legacy and setting the stage for the next 50 years.
We are thrilled to announce that FDF 2027 will take place in Anaheim, CA, February 11-14, 2027, at the Anaheim Marriott!
Building on the record growth of recent years, we have further expanded our hotel footprint to include not only the Anaheim Marriott, where we will once again have the entire property, but also a consolidated block at the Hilton Anaheim, where we have significantly increased our overflow block compared to... show moreFDF 2027 is the 50th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Folk Dance & Choral Festival! This milestone marks five decades of bringing generations together to celebrate our heritage, culture, and faith. We are committed to making this year memorable, while honoring this legacy and setting the stage for the next 50 years.
We are thrilled to announce that FDF 2027 will take place in Anaheim, CA, February 11-14, 2027, at the Anaheim Marriott!
Building on the record growth of recent years, we have further expanded our hotel footprint to include not only the Anaheim Marriott, where we will once again have the entire property, but also a consolidated block at the Hilton Anaheim, where we have significantly increased our overflow block compared to prior years. Together, there will be nearly 1,500 hotel rooms at our special FDF rates across both hotels. This represents our largest FDF room block to date and positions us to welcome even more participants and families to the festival during this significant milestone year.
Booking Note: Hotel reservations and participant registration details will be shared in late summer 2026.
Travel Note: Super Bowl LXI is scheduled for Sunday, February 14, 2027, in Inglewood near Los Angeles. For those flying in, we encourage booking travel as early as possible. Orange County (SNA), Ontario (ONT), and Long Beach (LGB) airports are in closer proximity to Anaheim compared to LAX.
Thank you to everyone who completed the FDF 2026 survey, with over 500 responses received. Your insights are invaluable as we shape FDF 2027 and the future of the festival. We look forward to sharing key takeaways in the months ahead.
FDF is elevated by the participants and volunteers who give themselves to this ministry year after year. We are grateful for your continued trust and support, and look forward to celebrating together!
• 
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will host a Youth Worker Workshop on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Oakland, California.
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Celebrating Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church, Honoring Robin and Greg Sirakides For their dedication and contributions to Prophet Elias for over 42 years..jpeg)
Want to learn some new ethnic cultural dances for all of our events & all the festivals around the bay? Look no further!.png)
Please join us for the annual Chian Society of California, Agia Markella Chapter, Dinner Dance on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at the St. Nicholas Community Center. 
SMALL HALL DURING COFFEE HOUR
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos invite the faithful to gather for Light the Path – A Christmas Reception, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Centre, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, California. The annual event will benefit the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund, which provides financial assistance to seminarians and students from the Metropolis of San Francisco attending Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. Make your reservations and donations here! (https://donate.onecause.com/light-the-path-2026)
The Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the continuation of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on “To Prepare: Healthy Catechism for Newcomers” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father George Parsenios and Dr. Don Khouri.
SAINT NICHOLAS, SAN JOSE OCF COLLEGE MINISTRY
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
Do you lead a young adult ministry at your parish? Join our calls every other month to create community, overcome challenges, grow and connect with the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco..png)
Three days of music, dance, and learning in San Francisco..jpeg)
COMMUNITY, CELEBRATION, AND SEASONAL FUN!
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
8:15 AM ORTHROS + DIVINE LITURGY
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry invites all couples to participate in the upcoming Eight Dates marriage program. Presented for the fifth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.
SARATOGA COUNTRY CLUB
The Orthodox Parish Leadership (OPL) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce the final segment of the 2026 OPL webinar series, with an engaging presentation on "To Embrace: Building the Orthodox Mindset & Adult Religious Education for the Newly Illumined" in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, December 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Thomas Zaferes and Dr. Eve Tibbs..png)
All Parishioners Are Invited
Families from across the West Coast are invited to join us for Family Winter Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center, December 27–30, 2026!
Do you lead a young adult ministry at your parish? Join our calls every other month to create community, overcome challenges, grow and connect with the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.
FDF 2027 is the 50th anniversary of the Greek Orthodox Folk Dance & Choral Festival! This milestone marks five decades of bringing generations together to celebrate our heritage, culture, and faith. We are committed to making this year memorable, while honoring this legacy and setting the stage for the next 50 years.