Saint Katherine has many Ministries, or group activities, that support her parishioners and their spiritual needs. These Ministry activities are focused on our religion, our church, and the desire to become closer to God.
Philoptochos
Philoptochos is the largest organization of Greek Orthodox women, supports many charities while spiritually enriching its members through their participation in its work. The benevolent works of Philoptochos are a continuation of Christ's ministry on earth. Through our participation in Saint Katherine's programs we can return to God a portion of the time, talents and resources with which He has gifted us.
Greek Orthodox Youth of America (GOYA)
The GOYA is a youth ministry for Orthodox Christian teenagers ages 13 through 18. Teenagers should be in 7th through 12th grades to participate. The goal 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 members of the Church, our young people will be equipped with tools necessary to assist them in their journey towards salvation. The GOYA ministry integrates four elements: worship, fellowship, service, and witness.
Acolytes
One of the most consistent and unique youth ministries at Saint Katherine has been the Acolyte program. All boys from age 7 - 18 are eligible to serve as Acolytes (Altar Boys) in the Holy Altar during the Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning, well as during other special services and holidays throughout the year.
One of the most consistent and unique youth ministries at Saint Katherine has been the Acolyte program. All boys from age 7 - 18 are eligible to serve as Acolytes (Altar Boys) in the Holy Altar during the Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning, well as during other special services and holidays throughout the year. Acolytes should arrive in the Altar at 9:55 AM, in order to vest in the Acolytes' robe and to prepare the censer, candles and other items for the Divine Liturgy. Proper attire for Acolytes should include black dress shoes, a dress (or collared) shirt with a neck tie if possible, and dark colored slacks.
Responsibilities include participating in the liturgical processions, taking turns reading the Epistle (age 12 & up), and ringing the church bell in the bell tower, both at the beginning and at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy.
Parents should make it clear to their sons that serving in the Holy Altar during the Divine Liturgy is a special privilege and that their best behavior is expected at all times. Serving in the Altar can be a very positive experience that will stay with a young man for the rest of his life. Nothing else can convey a sense of appreciation for holy things, a reverence for God and the spiritual life quite the same as serving as an Acolyte in the Holy Altar.
Ushers
At Saint Katherine, our ushers assist the Parish at the conclusion of each service. Ushers are positioned at the end of each row of pews and direct the parishioners row by row to proceed down the side aisles to receive their antidiron (blessed bread). They make sure the aisles are safe and do not fill up and crowd with too many people.
At Saint Katherine, our ushers assist the Parish at the conclusion of each service. Ushers are positioned at the end of each row of pews and direct the parishioners row by row to proceed down the side aisles to receive their antidiron (blessed bread). They make sure the aisles are safe and do not fill up and crowd with too many people.
Typically, each usher will serve one Sunday Divine Liturgy service per month. Additional ushers may be needed during special services.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact a Parish Council member, the Ministry of Worship Chair, or e-mail us.
Sunday School
For Pre-Kindergarten to High School Aged Children
We welcome the children with enthusiasm and love! We have fantastic teachers who are very excited and have lots of fun in store. They can't wait to see how much the children have grown, hear their laughter in the church, and hear them speak of what they have done this summer. Each school year brings new energy and we embrace everything with our love of our faith.
We welcome the children with enthusiasm and love! We have fantastic teachers who are very excited and have lots of fun in store. They can't wait to see how much the children have grown, hear their laughter in the church, and hear them speak of what they have done this summer. Each school year brings new energy and we embrace everything with our love of our faith.
The word of God is most essential, and we need to educate children of its significance. To reach this, we cannot simply depend on the Sunday school staff alone. We would like to give emphasis to the importance of support from you - the parents. Some people say that children learn everything at home first. Practicing scriptures, prayers and remembering the commandments at home brings them all to a good start. We know with your support and participation in the program they will grow to appreciate their Faith. Please continue to help us with our goal to ensure that the children remain well informed about their Orthodox Faith.
During the school year (usually starting the week after the "Weekend in Greece" Festival through early May), the Sunday School starts at 10 AM (same as the Divine Liturgy). The meeting in the following locations:
- Pre-kindergarten students: In the conference room to the right of the Narthex.
- Kindergarten through 5th grade students: In the main Sunday School room to the left of the Narthex.
- 6th grade and older students: In the Tsakopoulos Hall.
The Sunday School program has its own Facebook group! A great way to see what's happening in Sunday School as well as a place to share ideas, pictures, news, and other information for children and parents.
Folk Dance Groups
The ancient Greeks believed that dancing was invented by the Gods. The Gods offered this skill to only a few mortals who then taught dancing to their fellow men. Dancing in ancient Greece was held in high esteem. Along with reading and writing, dance was an important part of the educational regimen.
The ancient Greeks believed that dancing was invented by the Gods. The Gods offered this skill to only a few mortals who then taught dancing to their fellow men. Dancing in ancient Greece was held in high esteem. Along with reading and writing, dance was an important part of the educational regimen.
The ancient dances were characterized by dances of war and dances of peace and consisted of dances of theater, religion and worship, marital, and mourning. There are many similarities among ancient Greek dances and the dances of today; the way hands are held, the way the body is kept straight, the dancing formations followed by the dancers, the handkerchiefs and other objects the dancers carry while dancing.
Greek folk dancing is steeped in history and culture. The dancing tradition most likely originated in Crete around 1500 BC. Traditional dances are passed down from generation to generation because dancing embodies culture and is entertaining. Today dancing is included in many Greek celebrations, such as weddings, parties, and church celebrations such as our "Weekend in Greece" Festival. Greek dances are preserved because of people's love for dancing, regional customs, music, costumes, and efforts of local cultural organizations.
Saint Katherine has five dance groups divided by age.
- Ta Pethakia - pre-kindergarten and kindergarten aged children
- Ta Asteria - 1st through 3rd grade aged children
- Thavma - 4th and 5th grade aged children
- Oli Mazi - 6th and 7th grade aged children
- Glendi - high school aged children
Interested in Volunteering?
Our Ministries are always in need of volunteers. Our volunteers are what makes our Ministries and the activities done by the Ministries successful.