BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS]

On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Giving Tuesday, with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Mark, the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania invites the faithful to support its Youth Ministry, a vital investment in our Church.

Reader Nicholas Hojnicki, Director of Communications, offered a Giving Tuesday message in a recently published video by the Diocesan Media Office. He stated, "Our youth ministry is more than just summer camps or retreats. It is where faith takes root and community is formed, shaping the hearts of our young people right now. It is not an investment in our future but in our present."

He noted that the Diocese already provides full financial support for every Diocesan Applicant who wishes to participate in these programs, ensuring that no young person is turned away because of cost. Additional funds raised this year will help strengthen and expand the ministry by supporting new opportunities for fellowship, spiritual development, education, and leadership formation. His Eminence has repeatedly emphasized the importance of these programs, especially the relationships that young people form during retreats and events. In a previous reflection, he observed that the friendships and shared experiences within youth ministry help anchor young people in Christ and in the life of the Church.

The Diocese encourages the faithful to participate generously in this effort. Every contribution directly supports the work of nurturing young Orthodox Christians as they grow in faith, character, and service. This Giving Tuesday, the Diocese seeks to raise $10,000 to further develop the ministry and to continue offering these programs at no cost to diocesan families. The Diocesan Media Office has indicated that additional youth initiatives are planned for the coming years, and this appeal serves as an important first step in building a strong foundation for future growth.

The Diocese expresses its gratitude to all who support this work and prays that God will bless the generosity of the faithful. Donations may be made online at doepa.org/giving-tuesday or by mailing a check to the Diocese with “Giving Tuesday” in the memo line. To view the full Giving Tuesday appeal, visit doepa.org/giving-tuesday.

Thank you for your generosity!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office