On Saturday, August 2, over 30 volunteers from across the Diocese of New York and New Jersey gathered at St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Spring Valley, NY, to answer Archbishop Michael’s call to action. The first day of Operation: Spring Valley was marked by fellowship, generosity, and a tremendous amount of hands-on work, as clergy, parishioners, youth, and friends came together to restore and renew one of our Diocese’s historic communities.

From the moment tools were picked up, the energy was focused and purposeful. Volunteers dismantled water-damaged ceiling panels, cleaned decades of dust from the basement of the rectory, sorted and hauled debris, and worked side by side with care and dedication. With every swing of the hammer and every sweep of the broom, the church hall began to transform.

📅 Next Volunteer Day: Saturday, August 9 at 9:00 AM
📍 St. John the Baptist Church, 64 West Church Street, Spring Valley, NY

If you weren’t able to join us this time, you’re warmly invited to come on August 9. There’s still much to do—and still more joy to be shared.

How You Can Help

✔️ Volunteer – No special skills required—just a heart ready to help.
✔️ Donate – We’re working toward a $50,000 fundraising goal to cover materials and contractor costs.

Checks may be made payable to:
Diocese of New York and New Jersey
(Memo: Spring Valley)
Mail to:
Archpriest Gary Breton
c/o Holy Annunciation Church
360 Van Zile Road
Brick, NJ 08724

Online donations welcome:
👉 Click here to donate on GoFundMe

With every beam lifted and every corner cleaned, we are building more than a space—we are renewing a community in Christ.

📧 For info or to RSVP, contact Archpriest Gary Breton: gjbreton@gmail.com
📞 (848) 333-7055