With the blessing of His Grace, the Right Reverend Irinej, Bishop of Washington–New York and Eastern America, the Diocesan Education Commission is pleased, for the second year in a row, to organize a Nativity initiative in partnership with International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC). For reference, IOCC is widely respected for its integrity, transparency, and faithful service to those in need. In 2005, the late Patriarch Pavle awarded IOCC the Order of Saint Sava in the First Degree, the highest honor of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Last year’s initiative bore meaningful fruit. Inspired by the Prayer Journal, our children responded with sincerity and joy, offering what they could for those in need. Through this simple but powerful experience, they learned that philanthropy is not merely about giving, but about recognizing Christ in the other and responding with love.
This year’s annual Prayer Journal issue holds special meaning for our Diocese. On the opening pages of the Journal, readers will find a reflection co-authored by Mila Golić, daughter of our very own Fr. Branislav, appearing immediately after the message of Constantine M. Triantafilou, Executive Director and CEO of IOCC. Her reflection grows directly out of her experience at Saint Sava Church Camp at Shadeland, where she and other campers learned about IOCC’s work and the meaning of philanthropy. Similarly, on the very last page of the Journal, IOCC offers an expression of gratitude to the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Eastern America for its collaboration and support in bringing this year’s Prayer Journal to life.
For this reason, we made sure to deliver a copy of the annual Prayer Journal to every church-school student across our Diocese, together with an invitation to translate prayer into generosity and service.
Parishes are encouraged to document students receiving and engaging with the Prayer Journals. With permission, selected photos may be shared with IOCC as a witness to the collective efforts of our Diocese and the living faith of our youth.
This initiative is especially fitting during the Nativity season, when we contemplate God’s self-gift to the world and are called to respond through concrete acts of love. Even the smallest offering, given freely, becomes a meaningful expression of faith and compassion.
Families may send donations directly to IOCC using the instructions provided in the Prayer Journal or forward contributions to the Diocese. For donations submitted through the Diocese, please indicate “IOCC Donation” on the check or Tithe.ly transaction. Donations will be accepted through the end of January, after which all collected funds will be forwarded to IOCC.
Two philanthropy lesson plans (Grades K–6 and Grades 7–12), prepared by the Diocesan Education Commission, are available below for parish and church-school use.
We are deeply grateful to our clergy, teachers, and families for their continued dedication to the spiritual formation of our children. Through your commitment, this initiative continues to grow in depth and impact, helping to shape a generation formed in prayer, gratitude, and love for others.
Christ is Born! Indeed, He is Born!
With gratitude,
Srđan Maksimović
Coordinator, Diocesan Education Commission
