Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18, focused on fostering spiritual growth, community, and fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration is ongoing and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in this fantastic experience.
https://sanfran.goarch.org/events/summer-camp-2026-session-2?date=2026-07-12... show moreSession 2: July 12 – 18
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18, focused on fostering spiritual growth, community, and fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration is ongoing and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in this fantastic experience.
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18, focused on fostering spiritual growth, community, and fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration is ongoing and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in this fantastic experience.
https://sanfran.goarch.org/events/summer-camp-2026-session-3?date=2026-07-19... show moreSession 3: July 19 – 25
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18, focused on fostering spiritual growth, community, and fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration is ongoing and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in this fantastic experience.
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 “Building a Christ-Centered, High-Trust Team” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, July 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Dr. Mitch Owen and Tim Tassopoulos.
This webinar will help strengthen your ability to lead as a Christ-Centered leader who acts with the principles of servant leadership to build high-performing teams at all levels of parish work. Leaders do this by first having a strong commitment to building a culture of trust. A culture of trust... 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 “Building a Christ-Centered, High-Trust Team” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, July 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Dr. Mitch Owen and Tim Tassopoulos.
This webinar will help strengthen your ability to lead as a Christ-Centered leader who acts with the principles of servant leadership to build high-performing teams at all levels of parish work. Leaders do this by first having a strong commitment to building a culture of trust. A culture of trust that builds Christian character, embraces self-humility but not meekness, grows competency in what we do in our parishes, as well as increasing our ability to relate to each other in a stronger, loving way. In addition, the webinar will also share some other core areas of culture building that align with and are built on a culture of trust. We hope you will join us as we learn these critical skills and apply them to our own journey as Orthodox Christians.
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 “Beyond Stewardship: Fundraising for Special Parish Initiatives and Capital Campaigns” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Nick Chakos and Melpomeni Murdakes.
Every parish faces serious financial decisions at some point in their history: constructing a new church building, renovating the fellowship hall, repairing a leaking dome, adding iconography. Raising funds for special projects is a core aspect of parish... 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 “Beyond Stewardship: Fundraising for Special Parish Initiatives and Capital Campaigns” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Nick Chakos and Melpomeni Murdakes.
Every parish faces serious financial decisions at some point in their history: constructing a new church building, renovating the fellowship hall, repairing a leaking dome, adding iconography. Raising funds for special projects is a core aspect of parish administration, yet doing so without affecting annual stewardship giving can be a challenge. Fundraising depends on solid preparation, and ensuring certain key elements are in place before reaching out to donors is critical to success. This session will cover the fundamentals of raising funds for special parish initiatives and the basics of preparing for larger multi-year capital campaigns. Additionally, we will discuss planned giving - the single most transformational item for parish longevity and a key aspect of any major fundraising initiative.
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18,... show moreSession 1: July 5 – 11
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch is the most popular program offered by the Office of Youth and Youth Adult Ministries for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. Campers and staff enjoy this transformative ministry in the beautiful setting of the Ranch, growing closer to Christ, building lasting friendships, and expanding their horizons through fun and interactive programs. Our Metropolis Summer Camp offers a dynamic, faith-based program for youth ages 8-18, focused on fostering spiritual growth, community, and fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
Registration is ongoing and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in this fantastic experience.
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 “Elements of a Thriving Parish and Empowering Parish Ministries” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Luke Veronis and Mr. Alex Cooley.
This month's... 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 “Elements of a Thriving Parish and Empowering Parish Ministries” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Luke Veronis and Mr. Alex Cooley.
This month's session builds directly on the shared learning, tools, and parish experiences cultivated over the past several years through Metropolis of Boston's Thriving Congregations Initiative (TCI). Drawing from real examples from participating parishes, we will explore the key characteristics that contribute to parish health: a robust spiritual life, clear vision, and an awareness of the surrounding community. Particular attention will be given to how parishes can move from maintaining programs to empowering ministries that invite ownership, foster relationships, and extend the life of the Church beyond Sunday services. Through practical insights and stories, this webinar will help clergy and lay leaders identify where their parish stands today and how to take concrete, attainable steps toward deeper engagement, stronger ministries, and long-term vitality within the life of the Church.
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is honored to host the 2026 National Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. This program provides a valuable educational opportunity for youth to express their faith, gain important skills in public speaking, and to deepen their knowledge about theology and its application in our world today.
The National Festival is being graciously hosted by Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Northridge, CA... show moreThe Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is honored to host the 2026 National Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. This program provides a valuable educational opportunity for youth to express their faith, gain important skills in public speaking, and to deepen their knowledge about theology and its application in our world today.
The National Festival is being graciously hosted by Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Northridge, CA during the weekend of June 12 – 14, 2026. Representatives from across the Archdiocese will gather during this weekend where finalists will present their speeches and be rewarded for their excellent preparation and presentations.
The St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival is a nationwide Department of Religious Education (DRE) ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America that centers around faith, education, and fellowship. Greek Orthodox youth participants present speeches discussing the faith and the Church through exploring and deepening their faith while honing their speech writing and public speaking skills. National finalists earn sizeable monetary awards, and finalists at all four levels earn scholarships. The Oratorical Festival was established in 1983, by DRE Director Ernest Villas and Minerva Stergianopoulos, and began in 1984.
WHAT: National Oratorical Festival
DATE: June 12 – 14, 2026
LOCATION: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 9501 Balboa Boulevard Northridge, CA 91325
Is America a mission field? If it is, what do we do about it? What does the Orthodox Church have to offer America that it doesn't already have, and how do we share it?
These are the questions driving this conversation, and we want you to be part of it. The Missions and Evangelism Ministry (MEM) of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco invites you to the next session in our continuing series, America as a Mission Field: What Is the Gospel? on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. PST... show moreIs America a mission field? If it is, what do we do about it? What does the Orthodox Church have to offer America that it doesn't already have, and how do we share it?
These are the questions driving this conversation, and we want you to be part of it. The Missions and Evangelism Ministry (MEM) of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco invites you to the next session in our continuing series, America as a Mission Field: What Is the Gospel? on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. PST via Zoom (duration 90 minutes).
Week 5: Seeing the Gospel in Orthodox Icons
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every... show moreWeek 5: Seeing the Gospel in Orthodox Icons
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for five weeks from April 22 – May 20 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. Pacific, online via Zoom.
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 “Parish Council Leadership: What makes a parish council healthy, faithful, and effective?” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Mark Leondis and Girard Mitchell... 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 “Parish Council Leadership: What makes a parish council healthy, faithful, and effective?” in collaboration with the Metropolises of Atlanta and Boston. This event is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific. The presentation will be led by Rev. Father Mark Leondis and Girard Mitchell from Saint Mark Greek Orthodox Church in Boca Raton, FL.
In this practical session, Fr. Mark Leondis and Girard Mitchell will explore what parish council leadership is truly meant to be: not politics, not control, and not simply filling positions, but stewardship, service, and shared responsibility for the mission of the Church. This session will offer clear Orthodox principles, governance insight, and practical best practices for building a strong parish council culture. Topics will include mission clarity, nominations, accountability, ministry involvement, meeting culture, the priest-council relationship, and common pitfalls councils should avoid. Whether you are clergy, a current parish council member, or discerning future leadership, this session will challenge and equip you to help build a parish council that truly serves the mission of Christ and His Church.
Week 4: The Holy Trinity
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for five... show moreWeek 4: The Holy Trinity
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for five weeks from April 22 – May 20 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. Pacific, online via Zoom.
The Christian Education Ministry and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco are excited to announce the Metropolis-level 2026 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival. This program provides a valuable educational opportunity for youth to express their faith, gain important skills in public speaking, and to deepen their knowledge about theology and its application in our world today.
The Metropolis-level Festival will take place in-person... show moreThe Christian Education Ministry and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco are excited to announce the Metropolis-level 2026 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival. This program provides a valuable educational opportunity for youth to express their faith, gain important skills in public speaking, and to deepen their knowledge about theology and its application in our world today.
The Metropolis-level Festival will take place in-person at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
WHAT: Metropolis-level Oratorical Festival
DATE: Saturday, May 9, 2026
TIME: 9:00 a.m.
LOCATION: Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center Dunlap, CA
For additional information or assistance, please contact the Metropolis Oratorical Leadership Team: Aristi Contos, Johanna Duterte-Carter, or Eve Tibbs.
Week 3: Created for a purpose
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for... show moreWeek 3: Created for a purpose
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for five weeks from April 22 – May 20 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. Pacific, online via Zoom.
Week 2: Early challenges and principle of conciliarity
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every... show moreWeek 2: Early challenges and principle of conciliarity
Please join us for a free weekly course in Basic Orthodox Theology offered by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Christian Education Ministry. Dr. Paraskevè (Eve) Tibbs will lead participants through a fast-moving and engaging instructional format, combining lectures, visual presentations, discussion and videos. Each class session topic is independent. Attend when you are able – a series commitment is not required. No homework.
Every Wednesday for five weeks from April 22 – May 20 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. Pacific, online via Zoom.