Assembly of Bishops News
College Student Sunday 2026 | Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America
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Tuesday, August 11, 2026
August 23, 2026
College Student Sunday
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
God bless you in these summer days as we prepare for a new ecclesiastical year.
Each August, as students prepare to begin or return to college, our Church turns its attention to these young men and women entering one of life's most significant transitions. It is a season of new opportunities, growing independence, and personal formation, but also one marked by challenges to their faith and identity.
The Prophet Jeremiah reminds us of God's abiding love and purpose: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you" (Jeremiah 1:5).
This sacred truth remains with our students wherever they study. They are known by God, loved by Him, and called to remain steadfast in Christ, even in environments where living the Orthodox faith may require courage and perseverance.
As members of the Body of Christ, we share the responsibility of supporting them. Clergy, parents, godparents, mentors, and faithful parishioners are called to pray for our students, encourage them, and remind them that they always have a home in the Church. A welcoming parish and a faithful Orthodox community can make a lasting difference as young adults navigate these formative years.
We also give thanks for the ministry of Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the official campus ministry of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America. Through campus chapters and other opportunities for fellowship, discipleship, and spiritual growth, OCF helps students build friendships rooted in Christ and remain connected to the life of His Church throughout their college years.
On this College Student Sunday, let us renew our commitment to walk alongside our students with prayer, encouragement, and Christian love. Let us bless those leaving home, warmly welcome those studying in our communities, and remind every Orthodox college student that they have a place to belong within the life of the Church.
May the Lord protect and guide all of our students, granting them wisdom, steadfast faith, and every good gift as they begin this new academic year.
With paternal love in Christ,
+Metropolitan Gregory
Episcopal Liaison to Orthodox Christian Fellowship
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