As Orthodox, We Should Ask: What Happens After the Tassel Turns?

More than 1,500 OCF graduates just crossed the stage. Hear from several students how OCF helped prepare them for their continued faith journey.

Brookline, MA — As the academic year comes to a close, Orthodox communities across the country are celebrating a season of transitions—from Sunday School milestones to high school and college graduations. These joyful moments mark more than academic success; they reflect lives being nurtured and transformed in the Orthodox Faith.

At the heart of this transformation on college campuses stands Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the Church’s official campus ministry. This May, OCF celebrated upwards of 1,500 graduating students—future leaders who are now bringing their faith into every corner of society.

“We often think of graduation as an ending, but at OCF, it’s just the beginning,” said OCF Executive Director Deacon Marek Simon. “This year, more than 1,500 Orthodox students graduated, having not only earned degrees, but deepened their relationship with Christ—thanks in large part to our Campus Missionaries Initiative, which places full-time Orthodox staff directly on college campuses. It’s one of the most effective ways we’ve reached students where they are.”

OCF by the Numbers: 2024-2025 Impact Snapshot

• 3 campuses with full-time Campus Missionaries
• 200+ active chapters across North America
• An estimated 5000+ students impacted each year through events, programs, and fellowship
• Dozens of retreats, leadership trainings, and service trips offered annually
• Tens of thousands of minutes spent together in prayer, discussion, studying the scriptures and fellowship.

These numbers tell a compelling story: OCF is more than a presence—it’s a vital spiritual anchor for young adults in an increasingly disconnected world.

Student Voices: Living the Faith on Campus

“In a place where faith isn’t always front and center, OCF gives me the courage to live out my beliefs,” said Luca T. ’26 of Dallas Baptist University. “It’s made my college experience deeply meaningful.”

“OCF has kept me grounded in my faith and surrounded by people who genuinely care,” added Darina L. ’26 of Arizona State University.

“Whether through my chapter or College Conference, I always came away feeling spiritually renewed,” shared Perry P. ’25 of Purdue University.

Their experiences reflect a common thread among OCF participants: community, courage, and Christ-centered living.

Looking Ahead: A New Class Awaits

As one class departs, another prepares to arrive. The coming fall will bring thousands of Orthodox students to campus—many for the first time, seeking both friendship and spiritual direction. OCF is ready to meet them, thanks to the generosity and prayers of the faithful.

As we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of this year’s graduates and catechumens, we invite you to:

• Pray for Orthodox students, alumni, and staff
• Sign up for updates at ocf.net to follow OCF’s ongoing impact
• Parents, parishes, and youth program coordinators are encouraged to submit student contact information for their graduating high school seniors online at https://ocf.net. All information submitted by July 15, 2025 will be appropriately distributed in advance of the fall semester.
• And if you believe in this mission, please consider a financial gift to help us prepare and support the next class of Orthodox Christian leaders

“We’re proud of what this year’s students have achieved,” added Deacon Marek. “But we’re even more excited for what comes next. With your support, we can ensure that no Orthodox student walks their campus journey alone.”