It's that time of year again and as Orthodox students arrive on college campuses, OCF is already in high gear, organizing resources and programs to help our students stay connected to Christ and His Church. On Sunday, September 16th, parishes across North America will be celebrating College Student Sunday and recognizing our college students.
As the last formal point of contact in a chain of sequenced activities designed to launch our children into adulthood, Orthodox Christian Fellowship is a critical ministry. Many of our young people have participated in Orthodox pre-schools, Sunday school, and robust teen activities (youth groups and camps). Upon high school graduation, however, they are put to the test, and forced to face real world challenges without the benefit of family and spiritual support. OCF is on college campuses to make sure our children have a safe and reliable 'home away from home.' Through fellowship with other Orthodox students and a connection to an Orthodox Chaplain, students come together on campus and participate in worship, social activities, educational conferences, such as College Conference, and service projects like Real Break.
Saint Paul writes to the Corinthians, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountiful. (2 Cor. 9:6) Orthodox Christian Fellowship has reaped bountifully due to your continued stewardship to this important campus ministry. OCF is fulfilling our mission to keep our college students connected to Christ and His Church.
OCF is delighted to share with you evidence of this bounty, which confirms that OCF students are making their way from college to parishes and contributing in tangible ways. A recent survey of our students and alumni found that 94% of the OCF alumni respondents described themselves as "active" and "involved" in their parishes. Amazingly, close to 100% of the graduates attend liturgy regularly and over 70% receive confession, make regular financial contributions and volunteer in parish ministries. Additionally, 90% of students agree that they have a deeper spiritual and prayerful life as a result of their OCF experience. Through OCF, students continue to come together as the body of Christ, maturing as adults and as Orthodox Christians making the church their own.
In giving thanks to God for all things, we also give thanks for your continued prayers and stewardship to this crucial campus ministry. Please know that the parish relationship plays a crucial role in keeping our college students connected to the Church and growing closer to Christ during their most formative years. On Sunday, September 16th, look for a college student in your parish and learn more about the important work of OCF.
For your convenience we have provided downloadable College Student Sunday resources. Click on the following link(s) for the appropriate materials:
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OCF Contact Information
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
50 Goddard Avenue
Brookline, MA 02445
(800) 919-1623 main
(317) 522-1587 fax
info@ocf.net
www.ocf.net
OCF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and the official campus ministry of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops