WESTFIELD, NJ – GNUSA – [Photos: Douglas John Photography]
The 55th Metropolis of New Jersey GOYA Olympics took place over Memorial Day Weekend, May 23–24, on the campus of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J. Nearly 400 young people from parishes across New Jersey [Northern District of the Metropolis] gathered to compete in a wide range of track and field events, swimming competitions, and a volleyball tournament.
Although several outdoor events were canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions, all indoor competitions proceeded smoothly, filling the gymnasium with energy, enthusiasm, and loud cheers from participants and supporters alike who enjoyed throughout the weekend opportunities for fellowship, teamwork, and friendly competition.
On Sunday, May 24, His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey joined the youth in prayer during the Divine Liturgy at the Pollak Theater. Concelebrating were Fr. Gregory Gilbert, Chancellor of the Metropolis of New Jersey, Fr. Symeon Williams, Metropolis Youth Director, and Deacon Emmanuel Tsarnas, who together with area clergy were present throughout the weekend. Many volunteers from various parishes also contributed their time and effort to help organize the events, including the members of the GOYA Olympics Committee.
In his message, His Eminence reminded the young participants that their presence at the Olympics “is not simply participation in athletic events; it is a witness of faith, fellowship, unity, and Christian love within the life of our Church.” He emphasized that above all, they were gathered that morning to receive Christ through the Eucharist, noting that in today’s uncertain and often chaotic world, Christ’s presence in their lives is more essential than ever.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Apostolos joined the GOYAns on the track, firing the starting gun for the annual JOY 50‑meter dash. He also offered the opening prayer to begin the semi-final rounds of the volleyball tournament.
Each year, the GOYA Olympics foster a growing sense of fellowship and community as young people reconnect before the summer break. The weekend also serves as a special moment to honor high school seniors for their years of dedication to GOYA and to encourage them to remain active in the life of the Church during their college years and beyond, inspiring them to become future leaders.
Participating parishes this year included: St. George in Asbury Park/Ocean, St. George in Clifton, Ascension in Fairview, St. Anna in Flemington, Kimisis Tis Theotokou in Holmdel, St. Athanasios in Paramus, St. Demetrios in Perth Amboy, St. George in Piscataway, St. Andrew in Randolph, Saints Nicholas, Constantine & Helen in Roseland, St. John the Theologian in Tenafly, St. Barbara in Toms River, St. Demetrios in Union, Holy Trinity in Westfield, and St. Nicholas in Wyckoff.
