Mission

Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and the stranger that is within your gates, that they may hear, and that they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law."  Deuteronomy 31:12.  

A house must have a foundation to stand firm, and a tree needs strong, deep roots to grow properly. The mission of The Annunciation Catechism School is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for our youth in which they may grow their faith in Christ, learn the traditions and teachings of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, lovingly and enthusiastically live that faith on purpose, become disciples, and experience God’s constant presence in their lives.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.” Matthew. 28:19-20

Curriculum

Our Church School program follows the recommended texts identified by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, which we supplement with various other references, projects, and activities. To gauge where the students, your/our children, are in their religious studies, the Department of Religious Education has published the following summary for Grades 1- 5 from Dr. Vrame. Please take the time to review these milestones with your children. There may be some opportunity for 'family' learning!

Participation

Catechism classes are held each Sunday from September through May and are offered for children in Pre-K (beginning at age four and fully toilet trained by the first day of class) through High School (12th grade).  Classroom instruction starts immediately following Holy Communion and lasts approximately 45 minutes.  Lessons use innovative and creative teaching methods and follow the Archdioceses' curriculum supplemented by special programs and projects. Children learn best by living their faith with their family at home and with their friends in class, especially as they regularly participate together in the Liturgical and Sacramental life of the Church. Our dedicated teachers provide a welcoming, loving environment for all students. Learning can be, and is, fun! Join us!

Contact Person

Jacinda Ojeda, Director

 

 

 

 

 

Teachers:

Pre-K & K: Elena Economopoulos
1st & 2nd Grades: Kelly Toumbanakis
3rd & 4th Grades: Angela Gaugler
5th - 7th grades: Debbie Sourias
8th - 12th Grades: Demetrios Papakirk

We always need helping hands to improve our children's program and our service to our community. Please do not be shy! If you want to join this worthwhile effort, please contact Jacinda or Fr. John Johns.

 

Helpful Resources for Families

The Children's Word-Orthodox Christian Network

A weekly newsletter that includes a message, coloring page, and activities on the Sunday Gospel lesson and on one of the Saints for the week.

Orthodox Pebbles

Orthodox Pebbles- A digital collection of high-quality, free, online Orthodox Christian educational resources for young children.

Be the Bee

Be the Bee is a video series about finding God in everything, every day.

Byzimom

A collection of icon printables for coloring.