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Youth Orthodox Tewahedo Academy logoYouth Orthodox Tewahedo Academy

Programs

Ways to learn, worship, and grow

Weekly Sunday Church School forms the foundation of a student's time at Youth Orthodox Tewahedo Academy, complemented by focused programs in language, music, and seasonal learning.

An Ethiopian Orthodox deacon in vestments, reflecting the worship and service students learn about in our programs

Sunday Church School

Our core program meets every week and forms the heart of Youth Orthodox Tewahedo Academy. Students progress through age-appropriate classes covering scripture, prayer, church history, and the Amharic language, building a steady rhythm of learning alongside their faith community.

  • • Age-graded classes for Foundations, Discipleship, and Youth Fellowship
  • • Weekly scripture, prayer, and Amharic language instruction
  • • Consistent teachers who follow each class throughout the year
Weekly, year-roundAges 5–19

Amharic & Ge'ez Language Track

A dedicated language track for families who want to prioritize Amharic literacy and an introduction to Ge'ez, the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. Students build reading and writing skills that support both cultural identity and participation in the life of the church.

  • • Amharic alphabet, reading, and writing at every level
  • • Ge'ez fundamentals for older students
  • • Practice reading common prayers and hymns in their original language
Weekly, with optional intensive sessionsAges 5–19

Summer Faith Intensive

A focused summer program that goes deeper into a single theme each year, such as the lives of the saints, the church calendar, or the sacraments. The intensive format allows for extended activities, group projects, and fellowship beyond the regular weekly schedule.

  • • A new thematic focus each summer
  • • Extended hands-on and group activities
  • • A chance to build friendships across age groups
One to two weeks each summerAges 5–19

Choir & Chant Program

Students learn traditional Ethiopian Orthodox hymnody and liturgical chant, developing both musical skill and a deeper connection to the church's worship. This program is open to students who have completed at least one year in Discipleship or Youth Fellowship.

  • • Traditional hymns and liturgical chant
  • • Opportunities to participate in church services
  • • Mentorship from experienced chanters
Weekly rehearsalsAges 8–19

Organized by Age

Every program is taught within the right age group

Whichever program a family chooses, students are always grouped with peers at a similar stage of development.

Ages 5–7

Foundations

First steps in faith through stories, song, and the Amharic alphabet.

  • Amharic letters and early reading readiness
  • Simple Orthodox prayers and hymns
  • Bible stories for young children
Learn more
Ages 8–12

Discipleship

Deeper study of scripture, church history, and the Amharic and Ge'ez languages.

  • Amharic reading and writing
  • Introduction to Ge'ez
  • Old and New Testament Bible study
Learn more
Ages 12–19

Youth Fellowship

In-depth theology, church history, and mentorship for teens and young adults.

  • Orthodox Tewahedo doctrine and theology
  • Church history and contemporary faith questions
  • Ge'ez liturgical texts and hymnody
Learn more

Enroll Today

Find the right program for your child

Registration only takes a few minutes, and our team is glad to help you choose the best fit.