SAINT GEORGE
Malankara Orthodox Church Ottawa
Orthodox Christian Youth Movement (OCYM)
The Orthodox Christian Youth Movement (OCYM) is a vital and influential division within the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Established 65 years ago, OCYM's primary mission has been to guide and nurture young members of the church in living out their Christian faith through Worship, Study, and Service. By focusing on these three pillars, the movement has been instrumental in strengthening both the spiritual life of the youth and the broader growth of the church and community.
OCYM offers a space for young people to grow in faith, deepen their understanding of the Scriptures, and actively engage in service to others. Through worship, members are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with God, while study helps them better understand their faith, and service allows them to live out Christian teachings by helping others and addressing social issues.
The establishment of an OCYM chapter at Saint George Malankara Orthodox Church in Ottawa reflects the continued relevance of this movement, even across geographical boundaries. This initiative, launched by a dedicated group of young people from the parish, aims to serve as a transformative platform for the youth in the community. It provides a safe and supportive environment where they can share their thoughts, challenges, and insights related to both their faith and the broader world around them.
Amid contemporary issues such as societal pressures, cultural shifts, and personal challenges, this OCYM chapter seeks to shape the youth's perspectives, helping them to navigate these complexities while staying grounded in their Christian values. The initiative also creates opportunities for young members to showcase their talents, whether through musical performances, public speaking, volunteerism, or other forms of creative expression. In doing so, it enables them to play an active role in the church and wider society, fulfilling the call to both serve and lead with Christian integrity.
The establishment of this chapter is also a reflection of the dynamic and evolving nature of the Orthodox Christian Youth Movement. As the needs of young people continue to shift with changing times, OCYM remains a pivotal force in addressing those needs, ensuring that the next generation is spiritually equipped and ready to make a positive impact on their communities