Telos Project seeks to learn about young adults' religious lives

(OCA) - The Telos Project, a five-year initiative at Hellenic College/Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology [HCHC] exploring the religious lives of young adults ages 23-29, is seeking 14 parishes belonging to the Assembly of Canonical Bishops of the United States of America to pilot new forms of young adult ministry.

“The Telos Project is a tremendous opportunity to engage and embrace Orthodox Christian youth, and inspire them to a life integrated in Jesus Christ,” said the Rev. Christopher T. Metropulos, President of HCHC. “It is further an exercise toward greater cooperation and understanding throughout all levels and jurisdictions of the Orthodox Church in America.”

Hosted by the Office of Vocation and Ministry, the Telos Project was inspired by the popular CrossRoad Summer Theology Institute, whose alumni identified the need for more faith-based support systems in young adulthood. It seeks to help parishes guide young adults through the questions of identity, vocation, and relationships they face in their twenties and beyond. Telos Project findings will also shape curriculum for Orthodox clergy and lay leader formation.

“HCHC is honored to hold a leading role in examining and educating Orthodox Christian young adults,” continued Father Christopher. “It is my hope that all parishes meeting the pilot criteria will consider an application to join with us to inspire a new generation of clergy, lay leaders, philanthropists and volunteers who will serve the Orthodox Church well into the 21st century.”

Any canonical Orthodox parish located in the US is invited to apply to be a pilot parish. Accepted parishes will be required to assemble a team of three to seven parish leaders, young adults, and other community members to serve as a young adult leadership team for the project. Leadership teams will participate in collaborative webinars, annual learning conferences, and other learning resources as they design new ministries for and with the young adults in their communities. Pilot parish findings will then be shared on the web, social media, and other multimedia outlets.

Additional information is available on-line here or may be obtained by contacting Telos Project Director Elyse Buffenbarger at telos@hchc.edu.