A FUNDRAISER HAS BEEN LAUNCHED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH AND THE SPIRITUAL AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER

The Future of Our Parish is in Our Hands!

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

With God’s blessing and your prayers, we are entering an important stage in the life of our community—the construction of the Orthodox Church and Spiritual and Educational Center.

Studies show that most people come to God through personal experiences with the Church. That is why we firmly believe that this center will help many find faith, strengthen their relationship with God, and discover a spiritual refuge.

Currently, we hold services in a rented space, but with God’s help, we will have our own church and spiritual center—a place for prayer, brotherly fellowship, spiritual growth, and enlightenment. Here, we will conduct worship services, spiritual discussions, Sunday school lessons, and events dedicated to the cultural and historical heritage of Orthodoxy.

Why is this so important?

Our parish has become a haven for people from different parts of the world, where they find warmth, support, and brotherly love. We conduct services in Church Slavonic, making us the only parish in the state of Virginia that preserves this sacred tradition. Additionally, we organize spiritual discussions, helping people learn about and strengthen their Orthodox faith and find the path to salvation. However, to continue this mission, we need our own space.

What will the center include?

The Church – the heart of the parish, where worship services and sacraments will be celebrated.
The Refectory – a place for brotherly fellowship.
Halls for spiritual discussions – spaces for meetings, lectures, discussions, and film screenings.
Sunday School – where children will learn to live according to Christ’s commandments.
Kitchen and utility rooms – for shared meals and parish events.
Library – a place to study rare books, not only of a spiritual nature.
Cultural and Historical Center – a space for exhibitions, lectures, meetings, and events dedicated to Orthodox heritage, Church history, traditions, and culture. This will also include a museum corner showcasing church relics, ancient books, icons, and artifacts related to the history of Orthodoxy.

God enriches us not for earthly wealth, but so that we may bear eternal fruits. Every good gift, every offering given for the sake of the Lord, is not just a material contribution but a spiritual treasure. We can give a gift to Christ not with gold and silver, but by building a house where prayers will be lifted and souls will be saved.

Through us, thanksgiving is offered, and by supporting this Holy endeavor, we become co-workers with God. Let this center be a testimony of our faith and love for God—a work that will remain for eternity.

How Can We Make This Happen?

To begin construction, we need to raise $134,000 for the first phase. Your participation is not just a donation—it is an investment in the future and the future of our children.

How Can You Help?

Through Prayer – Nothing is possible without God’s blessing.
Through a Voluntary Donation – Even a small contribution brings us closer to the goal.
By Spreading the Word – Share with friends, post on social media, and invite new donors.

As the Lord said:
“I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).

Let us accomplish this great work together! We await your participation and prayerful support.

With love in Christ,
Fr. Sergiy
Rector of St. Joseph of Optina Parish

Donate to the construction

Ways to Donate

Donate via PayPal: @stjosephofoptina

Donate via Venmo: @stjosephofoptina

Make a Donation by Check
Make checks payable to: St. Joseph of Optina ROCOR

Mailing Address: St. Joseph of Optina ROCOR
P.O. Box 64476 Virginia Beach, VA 23467