"A good education is a stepping stone to understanding the truth and becoming closer to God."
— Saint Clement of Alexandria

In a move to standardize religious education across its parishes, the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Eastern America unveiled a new curriculum during a virtual presentation on September 6, 2024. The event, titled Orthodox Journeys Unveiled, brought together more than 40 church school teachers to mark the official launch of Orthodox Journeys, a comprehensive program aimed at improving religious instruction for Orthodox youth.

Moderated by Srdjan Maksimovic, Coordinator of the Diocesan Education Commission, the webinar began with a prayer led by Bishop Irinej of Washington-New York and Eastern America. "Christian education is the bedrock of our Church’s future," the bishop said, highlighting the significance of the new curriculum in shaping students’ spiritual and intellectual development.

Orthodox Journeys offers 42 weekly lessons, covering topics ranging from sacraments and iconography to the liturgical life of the Church. Tailored for students from kindergarten through high school, the curriculum is designed to meet the specific needs of Orthodox parishes. David Lucs, founder of Orthodox Journeys, presented the structure and methodology of the program, emphasizing its goal to engage and inspire students in their spiritual growth.

During a question-and-answer session, teachers raised concerns about adapting the curriculum for smaller parishes with limited resources. Maksimovic explained that the Diocese is committed to ensuring access for all parishes, offering flexible payment options, including PayPal and checks, with adjustments based on financial capacity. Bishop Irinej reassured participants, stressing that with creativity and commitment, the program could be successfully implemented in all parishes.

As the webinar concluded, Bishop Irinej thanked the educators for their dedication, calling them "guardians of the faith" entrusted with preserving Orthodox traditions for future generations. The session ended with a prayer and blessing, formally marking the launch of Orthodox Journeys in the Diocese.

With the new school year approaching, the curriculum is expected to play a central role in religious education across the Diocese. Ongoing webinars and virtual resources will provide continued support to educators as they implement Orthodox Journeys in their parishes. 

Diocesan Education Commission
Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Eastern America

Episcopal Patron: The Right Reverend Bishop Irinej of Eastern America
Co-chairpersons: Reverend Presbyter-Economos Christopher Rocknage, Reverend Presbyter Srebrenko Vidakovic
Coordinator: Mr. Srdjan Maksimovic, PhD ABD
Content and Curriculum Consultant: Dr. Ashley (Anica) Lackovic
Youth Representative: Mr. Luka Parojcic