When I say 'parish', most people will think of a church you belong to. Where you see your close neighbors or friends once a week before or/and after church, but I think of 'My Big Fat Greek Church Family'. Let me explain. I am Greek Orthodox, which means not only do I go to a Greek Orthodox Church but I also went to Sunday School and belonged to two youth groups, a greek dance group and my local Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA), which is for teenagers age 13-18. Being involved in those groups and going to church, made me really close to not only the people in those groups but everyone in my church.
It basically all started when I joined my current parish when I was 17. It felt like I was the new kid at school but I only had to worry about it once a week. The first time I went to my current church, I was scared and nervous of what everyone would think of me. Would they like me? Would I fit into a community that are already so close to each other? Although I was scared and nervous, my parents eventually encouraged me to at least talk to one person who was a part of the GOYA.
During coffee hour (a place after church where people can socialize), I introduced myself to a girl who was also a member of GOYA there. She eventually invited me to a GOYA activity they were having that weekend. It was folding palm crosses for Palm Sunday, and I instantly felt like I've known all of them for my entire life. That event convinced me to officially join the youth group, and it was honestly one of the best decisions I had ever made.
GOYA not only helped me become closer to everyone in that group, but it helped me feel a sense of belonging. I've met so many incredible people through GOYA and just belonging to the church in general. There is always someone that will say say hi to you, or give you the biggest hug. There is also someone always there for you, and someone who cares too.
Because of my church being like a small family, we can all depend on each other. I am extremely grateful for everyone at my church, especially my best friends. It's been almost 4 years being a member of that parish, and 3 years since the first GOYA meeting that I attended. In those 3 years, I've graduated from Sunday School, the Asteria Dance group and the GOYA. I also am so grateful for those 3 years and even more grateful for that girl. Because of her, I've made so many memories and I've also become closer to some of my favorite people ever. I call them my Big Fat Greek Family. I love you.
