After our last full day of Session 3, it’s time to say goodbye to what we’ve called “home” for a beautiful 10 days together. We enjoyed our remaining activities and couldn’t help but reflect on all we’ve gained this week at CrossRoad. The morning began with our usual routine of Orthros and breakfast, followed by […]
After Orthros, the participants continued their lessons with Dr. Albert Rossi on “Prayer & Purity”. In the afternoon, we departed for our visit to a local nursing home where the CrossRoaders spent time with their elderly neighbor. The residents were overjoyed by the participants’ smiling faces and caring presence. That evening, we learned from Dr. […]
Early Tuesday morning, the CrossRoaders and staff went to Michigan Avenue to break bread with the homeless. In small groups, the CrossRoaders approached people on the streets, offered them breakfast, and joined in conversation to learn about their lives. It was an extremely enlightening experience for all. It is profound to acknowledge Christ in the […]
In the morning after Orthros, the participants had their final classes with Dr. Nassif and Dr. Demacopoulos. They also had the opportunity for Q & As with the professors following both lectures. Through these intriguing lectures, the participants gained a greater understanding of the depth of their Orthodox faith. For our afternoon activity, we visited […]
On Sunday morning, we celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Sts. Peter & Paul Greek Orthodox Church. After the service, the CrossRoaders had brunch at the parish Greek Festival! When we returned to campus, the participants engaged in their third scripture and theology courses. They are learning so much and asking many intriguing questions! After our […]
In the morning, the CrossRoaders continued with their scripture and theology courses with Dr. Bradley Nassif and Dr. George Demacopoulos. Following the lectures and small group discussions, we ventured to Millenium Park near the Jay Pritzker Pavilion where we enjoyed a picnic lunch together. Of course, the CrossRoaders were eager to see the heart of […]
On Friday morning, the participants had their first day of scripture and theology classes with Dr. Bradley Nassif (Professor of Biblical & Theological Studies, North Park University) and Dr. George Demacopoulos (Professor of Theology at Fordham University; Fr. John Meyendorff & Patterson Family Chair of Orthodox Christian Studies; Co-Director, Orthodox Christian Studies Center). Following each […]
After Orthros, the participants explored the vast beauty of God’s creation in a session called “Sanctification of Creation”. The CrossRoaders also enjoyed an activity inspired by the encounter on the road to Emmaus which served as an opportunity to walk around the North Park University campus with a new friend! In the afternoon, we visited […]
The CrossRoaders began their second day together with Orthros and a staff-led session on the topic of “Orthodox Anthropology”. In the afternoon, they departed for a ropes course where they engaged in collaborative team-building exercises. The participants worked together to complete various tasks including a high ropes challenge! With each activity, you can see them […]
Greetings from Chicago! This morning, 29 new participants arrived at North Park University excited and ready to “take the challenge”! The new CrossRoad participants spent their first evening getting to know each other through various icebreakers. With lots of laughter, the group began to build joyful friendships! They also explored their unique and God-given strengths […]