Growing in Faith, Together
Ascension Sunday School brings our youth together in a welcoming community centered on learning, fellowship, and the Orthodox Christian faith. Through age-appropriate lessons and activities, students deepen their understanding of Orthodoxy, build meaningful relationships, and are encouraged to grow in their faith and relationship with Christ.
Children and youth of all ages—from newborns through high school seniors—are welcome to participate, and registration is open year-round.
Throughout the year, students explore Holy Scripture, the lives of the Saints, worship and traditions, the major feasts of the Church, prayer, hymns, and what it means to live an Orthodox Christian life.
“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
Sundays at Ascension
Divine Liturgy | 9:30 AM
Families are encouraged to begin Sunday together in Divine Liturgy, where children can light candles, venerate the holy icons, participate in worship, and receive Holy Communion.
Sunday School | 10:45–11:30 AM
Following Holy Communion, students head toward the Gym for a light snack before beginning Sunday School.
Sunday School generally meets throughout the school year, although the schedule may occasionally change due to feast days, holidays, and other parish events.
Please refer to the Sunday School Calendar for the most up-to-date schedule.
Sunday School Classes
Students gather in age-appropriate classes designed to build their knowledge of the Orthodox faith as they grow.
Parents & Tots | Newborn–Age 2
Parents and their youngest children are invited to gather for fellowship in a child-friendly environment in Room 201.
Preschool–Kindergarten
Age-appropriate lessons introduce our youngest students to the Orthodox faith through stories, activities, music, and the life of the Church.
1st–2nd Grade
3rd–5th Grade
Middle School (6th-8th Grade)
Middle school students meet weekly for age-appropriate lessons and discussion designed to deepen their understanding of the Orthodox faith. They also participate in a monthly Orthodox Life session focused on connecting faith with the questions and experiences of everyday life.Orthodox Life session once each month, providing an opportunity to explore their faith in greater depth and discuss how Orthodoxy relates to their everyday lives.
High School
High school students continue their faith formation through monthly Orthodox Life sessions, featuring meaningful discussion, fellowship, and opportunities to explore Orthodox Christianity in greater depth.
Most grade-level classes meet upstairs in the Education Building.
First Sundays
On the first Sunday of most months, the regular schedule shifts to provide opportunities for larger group learning and discussion.
Large Group Lesson | Preschool–8th Grade
Throughout the year, students come together for special large-group lessons in addition to their regular grade-level classes.
On the first Sunday of most months, Preschool–6th Grade students gather in the Gym for a shared lesson, while Middle and High School students participate in Orthodox Life sessions.
Faith in Action
Sunday School learning extends beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, students participate in special programs, worship, service projects, and traditions that help them experience the Orthodox faith as an active part of parish life.
Activities may include:
Blessing of the Backpacks
Annual Nativity Pageant
Nativity Crafts Fair and charitable outreach
Holy Friday Retreat
Lessons surrounding the major feast days and seasons of the Church
Learning Orthodox hymns and traditions
Opportunities to serve as altar boys, Youth Choir singers, and Myrrhbearers
About us
Our Sunday School program is led by Christina Yiannakopoulos, with the support of a dedicated team of teachers and volunteers committed to providing a meaningful and engaging Orthodox Christian education for our children and youth.
Parents Are Part of Sunday School, Too
A child’s religious education extends well beyond the classroom. We encourage parents and families to participate regularly in both Divine Liturgy and Sunday School, helping children experience their faith as an active part of everyday family and parish life.
Volunteer With Us
Our Sunday School program is made possible in large part through the support of our families and volunteers. There are many ways to participate, whether you can help regularly or occasionally.
Opportunities include:
Classroom Helper — Assist teachers, particularly with our younger students.
Small Group Leader — Help lead a discussion or activity related to the lesson.
Substitute Teacher — Step in when a regular teacher is unavailable.
Snack Provider — Provide snacks for Sunday classes or special events.
Guest Speaker — Share relevant knowledge, experience, or expertise with our students.
Contact Christina Filios to learn more about Volunteering.
Youth Choir
Children in 3rd grade and above are also invited to participate in the Ascension Youth Choir under the direction of Laura Kakis Serper.
Each Sunday, participating children may join the choir loft following the Creed to sing the Communion hymn, “Praise the Lord.” Youth Choir provides another meaningful way for children to participate directly in the worship and liturgical life
of the Cathedral.