First Orthodox VCS Program in Hong Kong Successfully Completed

Hong Kong, China – The Orthodox Metropolis of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia (OMHKSEA) recently successfully completed its first ever VCS (Vacation Church School) program. Children from the parish attended the half-day classes during the week of 11-14 August. The theme for this year's program was "God is Wondrous in His Saints;" it was hosted by the Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Luke in Hong Kong.

Each day's program was composed of various elements. The children attended prayer services, underwent instruction, participated in arts and crafts projects, learned songs and church hymns, and even played games. The daily lessons comprised two parts – the first part covered one of the Feasts of the Theotokos, while the second part covered a saint or saints who are connected with the parish.

During the week, the children learned about the following feats of the Theotokos: Nativity, Presentation to the Temple, Annunication, and Dormition. They also learned about St. Luke, St. Nektarios, the Orthodox Chinese Martyrs, and Noah. The final day of the program consisted of a field trip to the new Noah's Ark replica on Park Island in Hong Kong.

Since the summer in Hong Kong is usually plagued by poor weather, the VCS program was offered this year by the OMHKSEA in order for the children of the parish to have some sort of activity during the summer months, while learning more about their faith.

Assistance in developing the curriculum for the week was provided by the Orthodox parish of the Holy Trinity in Wilmington, DE, and the Youth Department of the Metropolis of Boston (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America). The OMHKSEA wishes to extend its thanks to the individuals who assisted.

The Orthodox Metropolitinate of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia was established by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1997. Its mission is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in Southeast Asia and develop philanthropic programs in the area for all people.

by Fr. Kosta Tsilis