With the blessings of His Grace, the Right Reverend Irinej, Bishop of Washington-New York and Eastern America, the Diocesan Education Commission is delighted to announce a unique initiative in partnership with International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC): providing every church-school student with the annual Orthodox Prayer Journal.

This publication is much more than a magazine. It is a meaningful resource designed to help students deepen their relationship with Christ through prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. It also encourages them to consider serving others, especially those in need. As Saint John Chrysostom profoundly reminds us, “The poor are not the problem; they are the purpose.”

We are delighted to collaborate with IOCC, a humanitarian institution that is widely recognized for its remarkable humanitarian efforts. In 2005, the late Patriarch Pavle granted them the Order of St Sava in the First Degree, the most prestigious prize in the Serbian Orthodox Church. Their commitment to matching $7 of every $1 donated is a testament to their commitment to serving those in need. These magazines have been distributed from the Diocesan office to each parish, based on the number of children reported to be regularly attending church-school classes.

To capture the joy of this initiative, we encourage you to take photos of your students as they receive and engage with the magazines. With your permission, the Diocesan Education Commission will share these photos with IOCC to highlight our collective efforts. These images may also be featured in future IOCC publications, showcasing the strength and unity of our Diocese within the broader Orthodox Christian community.

This initiative fits perfectly with the Nativity season, a time to reflect on God’s greatest gift and show His love through our actions. Our hope is to teach children that even small acts of kindness can bring hope and make a lasting difference.

Even as small as a penny, contributions can collectively make a significant impact. Families may send donations directly to IOCC using the instructions provided in the magazine, or they may forward them to the Diocese. For Diocese contributions, please specify “IOCC Donation” on the check or PayPal transaction. Donations will be accepted until the end of January, when the collected funds will be sent to IOCC.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our youth and their spiritual growth. Your dedication ensures the success of such efforts, inspiring our students to reflect Christ’s love in all they do.

Wishing you a blessed Advent, a joyous Nativity, and a prosperous New Year.

Christ is Born! Indeed, He is Born!

With gratitude,
Srdjan Maksimovic
Coordinator, Diocesan Education Commission