“There is no greater calling than the education of our youth in the faith.” — St. John Chrysostom
The Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s Eastern Christian Formation (ECF) Program is coordinated by the Office of Religious Education (ORE). The ORE provides support and educational resources to catechists for use in their respective parishes; catechists in turn provide the necessary support and initiative to parents as they fulfill their responsibility to ensure both spiritual enrichment and faith-based education of their children in the Byzantine Catholic Church.
Our Program
Using God With Us Publications, we grow in knowledge of Jesus Christ our Savior through life-long faith formation according to the Eastern Christian faith tradition.
For Parents:
Find an ECF Program for Your Child
A listing of parishes with ECF programs
For ECF Coordinators/Catechists:
Catechist Formation
Like all Christians, catechists are called to continual conversion and on-going formation in their faith. The ORE provides an opportunity twice a year for catechetical coordinators and catechists to come together for training in methodology, pedagogical formation and development. In addition, opportunities for spiritual growth such as retreats, conferences, etc. are scheduled throughout the catechetical year.
Safe Environment Program
All catechists, volunteers and employees who work regularly with children in the Church must undergo criminal background checks and state-specific child abuse history clearances. They are obligated as well to participate in a Safe Environment Workshop developed and coordinated by the Office of Religious Education (ORE) or similar programs conducted by the Latin Catholic dioceses in other states within the Archeparchy (such as Texas and Louisiana), by agreement with the Archeparchy.
Adult Faith Formation
Workshops, training sessions and other enrichment opportunities are offered to Deacons, Facilitators of Adult Faith Formation and other interested adults throughout the year.
