God has granted us continued growth in the ministry in October. College ministry is about relationship-building and thanks to your financial support I have had many more opportunities this Fall to get to know the students and show them the love of Christ.
Retreat
The biggest news in the ministry since last month is our second annual retreat in Virginia. There were 12 students on the retreat—double the number from last year. This increase is due, at least in part, to the commitment that the students see the Church making in having full-time ministry on campus. The students represented a diverse group from seekers to non-denominational, Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Orthodox.
The retreat teaching focused on how Orthodox worship forms us, learning ceaseless prayer, and growth in communion with the Holy Trinity (theosis). In addition to Orthodox worship and teaching, there were opportunities to hike, time alone for contemplation, and informal meal and fellowship times. We concluded with Divine Liturgy on Sunday at the local All Saints Russian Orthodox Church. One student commented that she was “relieved” that there was so much serious prayer on the retreat. She had feared what she considered a more ‘frivolous’ weekend. 
This was a telling comment about the opportunity we have to reach these serious-minded students with the love of Christ and His holy Church.
Thank you for your support of and participation in this OCF ministry through your prayers and financial contributions. We continue to need growth in regular monthly pledges and support. If you know anyone who cares about Orthodox Christian outreach to college students, please refer them to our website by emailing this newsletter to them and print this brochure for them.
May God bless you!