With the blessings of our Spiritual Shepherd, His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael, more than 75 faithful from across the Metropolis of Chicago gathered at Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church in Lincolnshire on April 5, 2025 for the Family Synaxis Lenten Retreat. Centered on the theme “Following Christ Together: Strengthening Families Through the Bond of Community,” the retreat offered a meaningful day of worship, learning, fellowship, and service.
The day began with a family prayer service led by Fr. Sotirios Malamis, Parish Priest of Ascension, setting a prayerful tone for the retreat. Parents then heard a keynote presentation from Fr. George Dokos, Parish Priest of Holy Apostles in Westchester, who offered insightful reflections on “Generational Holiness.” At the same time, children from Pre-K through 12th grade took part in engaging lessons, crafts, and activities centered on St. Mary of Egypt and Orthodox Holy Week. They also had the opportunity to learn and chant Byzantine Lenten hymns, enriching their understanding of the Church’s liturgical traditions.
After a shared fellowship lunch, families turned their focus to a Lenten almsgiving project, carried out in partnership with the Metropolis of Chicago’s Project HOPE ministry. Together, they assembled 120 bags—each weighing 25 pounds and containing 35–40 nourishing meals—for two partner organizations serving individuals experiencing food insecurity. Deliveries were made to Midwest Veterans Closet in Waukegan, which supports current and former military heroes facing hardship, and to Northside Housing in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, a Project HOPE partner providing sustenance to homeless men. The joy, purpose and enthusiasm in the room was contagious –especially among the youngest participants—who eagerly filled their bags through an assembly line of food and brought them straight to the delivery truck. The hands-on service opportunity was a highlight for many, offering families a tangible way to give back during Great Lent.
This retreat was organized by the Metropolis of Chicago Family Synaxis Ministry, which is dedicated to nurturing and connecting Orthodox families in Christ. Through retreats, workshops, and events, Family Synaxis supports parents, fosters friendships among children, and strengthens the spiritual life of the “little Church” in the home.
We are deeply grateful to the Hellenic Foundation for their generous grant, which made this retreat possible, and to Project HOPE for their collaboration in this impactful act of service.
Photos from the event can be viewed at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC8m3f.
With God’s help, Family Synaxis will continue to grow, meeting the evolving needs of Orthodox families and fostering meaningful relationships across our Metropolis. For upcoming programs and events, stay connected at https://www.gocfamilysynaxis.org/home.
