2020 Virtual Oratorical Festival
The Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical and Fine Arts Festival is a longstanding tradition that provides a unique opportunity for our youth both to learn about their faith and to display their talents in the areas of Speech, Essay, Poetry, Iconography and Vocal Solo (new category as of 2019). Those who are successful at their individual parish festivals are invited to participate at the Metropolitan Festival each spring.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Festival shifted to an online format to recognize participants. Father Kosmas, Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministries, conducted interviews that addressed the topic that the particpants focused on in their submissions. Check out the videos below!
Video Interviews
The Role of the Mother of God in Our Lives
Gabriella E. | St. Demetrios, Libertyville, IL
What is the importance of service in the Orthodox Church?
Luke C. | Holy Apostles, Westchester, IL
What is the Mother of God’s role in the Church?
Eleftheria A. | Assumption, Town and Country, MO
Showing Hospitality to Strangers
Alex K. | SS Peter and Paul, Glenview, IL
How have modern-day saints from the past 100 years, from St. Nektarios to St. Paisios and others, helped Orthodox Christians live their lives today?
Anthony T. | St. Demetrios, Chicago, IL
What is the significance of Constantinople and Church History, and the struggle that Orthodox Christians in Constantinople face today?
Katherine S. | Kimissis Tis Theotokou, Racine, WI