Icons in Progress

Scroll down for detailed information about the symposium!

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Introduction and Rationale

The "Icons in Progress" Symposium is a one-day event dedicated to addressing the growing mental health challenges faced by Orthodox Christian teenagers and their parents. This symposium will provide a faith-informed space for teens and parents, both separately and together, to engage in open dialogue, receive professional insights, and integrate psychological wellness with Orthodox spirituality. The goal is to equip the Orthodox community with practical tools to recognize, support, and foster emotional intelligence and resilience in our teen population. “Icons in Progress” will be held on March 7, 2026, at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in San Diego. 

Current data indicates a significant increase in anxiety, stress, and depression among adolescents nationwide. Orthodox teens often face unique pressures balancing academic demands, social media, and maintaining a traditional spiritual life.

• The Gap: There is a need for mental health programming that is not secular but is deeply rooted in Orthodox theology (e.g., viewing the person as an "Icon of God").

• The Mission: To foster an Orthodox community environment where discussing mental health is normalized, de-stigmatized, and actively supported by clergy, youth, and parents across jurisdictions.

Target Audience: Teens (ages 13-18) and their Parents from all San Diego County Orthodox jurisdictions, Youth Advisors/Leaders, and Clergy.

Program Structure

• Format: Parallel tracks (Parents vs. Teens) and Joint Sessions combining lectures, interactive activities, and a Q&A panel to ensure maximum engagement for each audience segment. End the event with a Vespers Service.
  
  

Key Topics:

• Teens: "How to Respond to a Friend in Crisis" & "Worthiness/Self-Esteem"
  
  

• Parents: "Bridging the Gap: Effective Communication" & "Building Resilience"
  
  

• Joint: "Digital Boundaries", "Mind, Body, Soul", & Q&A Panel with Mental Health Professionals.

Speakers:

His Grace Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, PhD, Director, Department of Religious Education 

George Papageorge, LMFT, Director, Metropolis of San Francisco, Family Wellness Ministry

Michelle Moujaes, Executive Director at Faithtree Resources

Estelle Stone, Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Mental Health Advocate & Volunteer

Funding

Our goal is to fundraise for the entire cost of the symposium. St. Spyridon GOC has donated $3,000 to get this project started, leaving us with $13,000 to raise. Any funds raised above the cost of the symposium will be donated to Orthodox Teen Mental Health Program Development.