Dear Parents, Students and Parishioners,

Welcome to our FOCUS Parish Education Program. We are now entering the period of Great Lent, the time of the year when we prepare ourselves for the Great Feast of Pascha. During the Great Lenten period this year, we will be studying the events that we celebrate during Holy Week and Pascha. Every member of our parish family and your family will be able to participate in this special study program. If you have a computer, you will be able to find extra projects, icons, music, books, activities, and crafts to enjoy reading and doing together at home as a family. There are also many suggestions of things you can do for others outside your home.

"Journey to Pascha"

Each week, we will focus on a different theme that is part of our Journey to Pascha!  In our classes together, we will begin with the story of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead, and continue with our celebration of Jesus' joyful Entrance into Jerusalem. During the following weeks, we will learn about each day of Holy Week, what Jesus taught His disciples during this time, and what happened to Jesus as He was brought to trial, put to death and buried. Finally, we will celebrate the events that led to His Resurrection from the dead!

Resources for Every Age!

The focus education website developed by the Orthodox Church in America (see focuseducation@oca.org) is a virtual treasury of resources for teachers, parents and children of all ages. There are ideas and materials for the whole family, from pre-school through adult study groups. The program includes:

FOCUS education is an interactive resource for all ages. We encourage you to sample the resources in your own home as well as to use them in a variety of educational settings.