Expanding Our Ministries
Our Holy Orthodox Church is dedicated to expanding the capacity for the ministry God calls us to do among our families, our community and ourselves. Our capital campaign will allow our important ministries to flourish.
- Children's Ministry-
Our children's educational programs will finally have a home and the ability to expand as we grow. The children will learn faith and worship in an inspiring and creative environment further enriching their journey with God. - Youth Ministry-
Our teens will be encouraged to gather in fellowship with a place tailored to their interests. They will have their own space for prayer, study and social gatherings. Having a dedicated youth area will allow us to increase the number of youth served. - Adult Ministry-
The men and women fellowship programs will be able to increase participation without space limitations. Special educational programs, bible study, and community projects can be scheduled to meet the needs of the community. - Social Fellowship-
The social committee is anxious to have a hall that can accommodate our church functions including weddings, baptisms and special church celebrations. Large community gatherings have been restricted by our limited space. - St. Brigid Fellowship-
Our church will continue ministering to the homeless through St. Brigid Fellowship, serving the Monday night meal with other church organizations of all faith backgrounds, and working alongside Doctors Without Walls to provide care for ongoing medical conditions. This program will stay in Isla Vista and will be replicated in Goleta/Santa Barbara. - Community Outreach-
Caring for people is a prominent focal point of our church. In addition to St. Brigid Fellowship, many of our members support needy children in the Middle East, and others assist in International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), the Food Distribution Program, Council of Christmas Cheer, the Isla Vista Youth and Family Network, and Project Mexico. Project Mexico builds homes for the homeless and supports an orphanage for 30 boys, ages 6 through 20.
When we build our temple, we will expand our church family and our mission work with the homeless and other nonprofits.
"St. Athanasius is a community that has influence far beyond its size. Isla Vista is the frontier in our small community. We will reach more people and serve in many different capacities as we build our new temple," explains Fr. Nicholas. "Our intent is to maintain our presence in Isla Vista with our mission work, social service and chapel. We will grow to serve other segments in the community. Once our church is created to represent the Kingdom of God, our members will touch heaven and take it back into the community helping others."