Dear OYM Friends,

As we step into August, many of us are adjusting to the back-to-school rhythm, new routines, school supplies, and the ever-present question: Are we truly forming our children, or just filling them with information? But this season invites us to consider a deeper vision of education-one not centered on performance, but on personhood. Christian Gonzalez writes in this month's reflection, "We say [the Theotokos] is 'more spacious than the heavens,' not because she transcended her humanity, but because she fulfilled it completely by becoming a home for God." What if the goal of education isn't just knowledge, but the fullness of humanity, just as the Theotokos embodied? True formation doesn't start in the classroom. It starts in the heart-and it begins with grace.

This month’s What’s Your Ministry? article highlights Protodeacon David Keim and his wife Shell, an Orthodox family who approach the Dormition Fast as a sacred season of reflection and formation. As their children return to school, they turn to the Theotokos as their guide—shaping their home not just for academic success but for deep, integrated growth. Through prayer, fasting, and quiet contemplation, the Keim family seeks to model Mary’s trust, humility, and wholeness, cultivating a vision of education that forms hearts as well as minds.

As always, if you have job listings, events, or other resources you'd like us to share in this newsletter, please email us at newsletters@theoym.org. We also ask that you please consider making a donation to support us in this work. Together, we can keep young people connected to their faith through stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger Church.

Yours in Christ,

Dr. Christopher Krampe

President of OYM

August Ministry Reflection: The Theotokos As Our Model for True Human Formation

Back-to-school season is here, but formation goes deeper than new schedules and sharpened pencils. As we enter the Dormition Fast, we’re reminded that true education isn’t just about learning—it’s about becoming.

Click here to read.

What’s Your Ministry? Raising Saints in the Modern World

How one Orthodox family cultivates a life of faith, formation, and intentional living through home education and daily devotion.

Click here to read.

From Programs to Persons: Rediscovering the Church as Family (Video)

We often ask, “How do we keep kids in the Church?” But maybe that’s the wrong question.

What if the real question is, “How do we help them feel like part of a family?”

Click here to view.

OYM Chicagoland Ministry Support Coordinator Newsletter

Sign up for this new Chicagoland newsletter to get updates from Orthodox Youth & Young Adult Ministries, inspiring messages, and the latest news on what’s happening around the Chicagoland area.

Click here to read.

The Dormition Icon (Video)

Help young people learn the story of the Dormition of the Theotokos, as told by Orthodox Christian iconography with this beautiful video from our friends at Patristix.

Click here to view.

A People Set Apart: Teaching the Book of Exodus

Age-appropriate lessons, hands-on activities, crafts, and prayers for students of all ages on the Book of Exodus. (New material to be added regularly.)

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True Education: Begins With Humility

In a world obsessed with being “number one,” this reflection from The Saint Constantine School reminds us that true education—and true victory—begins in humility, wonder, and the unearned love of God.

Click here to view.

August Coloring Pages

Children will enjoy learning about the saints commemorated this month with free coloring pages from Sparks 4 Orthodox Kids.

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Dormition Coloring Pages

Partnering with families and educators to cultivate excellence in Orthodox education, deeply rooted in the life and tradition of the Church. Enjoy free, beautifully designed Orthodox-themed coloring pages for children.

Click here to view.

Dormition Fast Research Guide

The Ascetic Life of Motherhood has offered a resource guide on observing the fast for the Dormition and educating one’s family about its significance.

Click here to view.

Program Coordinator, FOCUS West Central PA

FOCUS North America is seeking a part-time Program Coordinator for its West Central PA ministry in Aliquippa. The role involves coordinating volunteer-driven programs such as a Back-to-School Backpack campaign and monthly meals for local schoolchildren and families.

Click here to learn more.

Administrative and Finance Director

The Treehouse is hiring a full-time Administrative and Finance Director to oversee accounting, strategic planning, and administrative operations.

Click here to learn more.

Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher

The Guardian Angel Greek Orthodox Academy is seeking a Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher to provide an Orthodox Christian education that nurtures students intellectually and spiritually.

Click here to learn more.

Digital Resource Design Consultant

The GOA Center for Family Care is seeking a Digital Resource Design Consultant to support the 5-year Lilly Endowment grant project, On Behalf of All, aimed at making the Divine Liturgy accessible to children with disabilities. This role involves designing digital resources, marketing materials, and website content with a focus on accessibility and universal design.

Click here to learn more.