Orthodox youth gathering held in UOC Oleksandriia Eparchy

Orthodox youth gathering in the Oleksandriia Eparchy. Photo: UOC

The UOC Oleksandriia Eparchy held the first meeting of a new Orthodox youth initiative, “Youth Is Our Hope,” bringing together young believers from different deaneries across the region. The organizers created the initiative to give young people a place to grow in faith together, meet like-minded peers, develop their talents, and do good works, according to the UOC Information and Education Department.

Metropolitan Boholep of Oleksandriia and Svitlovodsk took part in the event, prayed together with those gathered, and spoke to the young people about the importance of faith. The hierarch stressed that for a person to develop fully, overcome difficulties successfully, and make important life decisions, the Lord must have a place in that person’s life. The bishop spoke with the young participants in an open and informal setting and answered the questions that concerned them most.

Participants asked about spiritual choices, finding one’s path in life, and professional development. In particular, they asked the hierarch what matters more – pursuing a personal career or serving others; whether it is possible to combine professional success with spiritual growth; where to find the strength to do good; and how to preserve one’s inner identity in the modern world.

Alongside the serious spiritual discussions, the eparchy organized an interactive social program for the guests. The young believers took part in an icebreaker game, discussed the format of future events, made burgers and nonalcoholic cocktails together, and took photos to remember the occasion.

Youth movement activists agreed to hold similar meetings every month, on the first Sunday of each month. The next gathering is planned for Svitlovodsk, where participants in the youth initiative will meet the local community and visit the city’s holy sites. The organizers are inviting all interested young people to join the project and take part in worthwhile initiatives.

As the UOJ reported, the UOC Volyn Eparchy earlier opened the “Tabor” youth festival.

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