GOYA Long Beach
A Ministry Tailor-Made for Our Youth
Greek Orthodox Youth of America for Junior High and High School Students
GOYA at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Long Beach is our youth ministry for students in junior high and high school. It is a place where teens can grow in their Orthodox faith, build lasting friendships, serve others, and stay connected to the life of the Church in a real and meaningful way.
Our GOYA program encourages young people to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ through worship, fellowship, service, learning, and participation in parish life. As teens grow and face new challenges, GOYA gives them a Christ-centered community where they can ask questions, strengthen their values, and discover how their faith can guide everyday life.
What Is GOYA?
GOYA stands for Greek Orthodox Youth of America. At Assumption Long Beach, GOYA serves students in grades 6 through 12 by creating opportunities to connect spiritually, socially, and personally within the Orthodox Christian faith.
This ministry is designed to help teens feel that church is not just a place they attend, but a community where they belong. Through shared experiences, conversations, service, and fun activities, GOYA helps young people build a stronger connection to God and to one another.
What Teens Experience in GOYA
GOYA activities are intended to be both meaningful and enjoyable. Depending on the season and parish calendar, participants may take part in:
- Faith-centered gatherings and discussions
- Service opportunities that support the parish and the community
- Social events, outings, and fellowship activities
- Special projects that contribute to the life and beauty of the church
- Events that help teens grow as Orthodox Christian leaders
Past activities have included fun outings such as movies and theme parks, along with meaningful parish contributions, including support for the church’s iconography project. GOYA gives teens the chance to enjoy time together while also learning the value of stewardship, service, and shared responsibility.
Why GOYA Matters
The junior high and high school years are an important time in a young person’s life. GOYA helps teens stay grounded in their faith while building confidence, friendships, and a sense of purpose. It offers a safe, welcoming environment where they can grow into active members of the Church and the wider community.
For many young people, GOYA becomes one of the most important ways they stay connected to parish life during their teen years. It reminds them that they are seen, valued, and needed in the Church today.
Part of a Larger Youth Journey
GOYA is one part of the broader youth life of our parish. Families may also want to explore our other ministries that help children and teens grow at every stage:
Stay Connected
For photos, updates, and current announcements, families are encouraged to visit our GOYA Facebook page.
If your child is in junior high or high school and would like to get involved, we would love to welcome your family. For more information, please contact the church office at (562) 494-8929 or office@assumptionlb.org.
