Resource Handbook

The OCA Resource Handbook for Ministries contains a wealth of articles categorized under eight ministry themes describing ways clergy and laity are successfully serving others. It contains practical “how to” ideas for individual, parish, parish organization, deanery and diocesan initiatives and provides a variety of materials upon which to reflect—and act!

Theology of Lay Ministries

An Orthodox vision of the ministry of the laity.
Historical perspective.
One’s unique calling in God’s plan.
Ministry in daily life.

Stewardship Education

An Orthodox understanding of stewardship.
Stewards of God’s creation.

Financial stewardship programs.
The Parish Budget.

Parish Development

An Orthodox vision of the parish.
Parish administration and leadership.
Needs and talents assessment.
Education in the parish.
Parish fellowship and outreach.
Addressing special needs, and problems in the parish.
Groups, organizations and programs that contribute to parish life.
Parish growth.

Community Service

Identifying the community and its needs.
Serving the hungry, the homeless, the naked, the imprisoned - locally, internationally.
Visiting the sick, the shut-ins.

Witness and Mission

An Orthodox vision of witness and mission.
Witness in the community.
Public relations and the media.
Vocational witness.

Family Life

An Orthodox vision of the family.
Family relationships.
Christian education in the family.
Family enrichment.

Youth and College Ministries

Youth ministry.
College ministry.
Camping programs.
Ministry of the youth.
Sources and resources.

Seniors

An Orthodox vision of aging.
Senior issues.
Ministry of seniors.
Parish and family ministry to the elderly.
Community services for the elderly.