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Family & Couples Ministry

The Family Synaxis of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago is a ministry committed to strengthening the bond of families through Orthodox praxis, or practice. Through workshops and discussions, fellowship and, above all, our assembly as the worshipping Body of Christ, the Family Synaxis seeks to fulfill its mission instilling “The Church in the Home.”

The Family Synaxis organizes the following events each ecclesiastical year:

  • A family retreat over Labor Day weekend with an Orthodox speaker, small group discussions, children’s sessions, family activities, and worship, held at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center (SIRC);
  • A couples’ weekend retreats, and men’s and women’s weekend retreats, with Orthodox speakers, group discussion, private reflection, prayer, and worship, held at the SIRC;
  • A family Lenten retreat on the third Saturday of Lent with an Orthodox speaker, group discussion, children’s sessions, and worship, hosted by a different parish each year; and
  • “Parenting University,” a series of Friday evening adult-only sessions with Orthodox speakers on topics relevant to parents, hosted by different parishes.

The Family Synaxis began its ministry in 2001 and has ministered to hundreds of families throughout the years. All Family Synaxis events are open to the entire Orthodox Christian community of the Metropolis of Chicago.