OYM Acquires Connect Conference to Serve Orthodox Young Adults Nationwide

Orthodox Youth & Young Adult Ministries (OYM) is excited to announce that it has acquired the Connect Conference, a pan-Orthodox gathering for young adults ages 21–39.

Connect exists to help young adults grow closer to Christ, the Church, and one another through shared learning, worship, and meaningful fellowship. Since its founding in 2017, the annual conference has brought together participants from across jurisdictions and across the country.

“This is a joyful step for us,” said Dr. Chris Krampe, Executive Director of OYM. “Connect has borne real fruit in the lives of young adults. It creates space for serious faith, honest conversation, and lasting friendships. OYM is committed to strengthening Orthodox ministries that are already working, and Connect is a beautiful example of that.”

Fr. Paul Lundberg, who has led Connect since its founding, shared his gratitude for the transition. “From the beginning, Connect has been about helping young adults know they are not alone in the life of the Church. We’ve seen people deepen their faith, build lifelong friendships, and discover how they are called to serve. With OYM’s support, I’m confident Connect will continue to grow and reach even more young adults.”

Hosted in different cities each year, Connect reflects the strength of Orthodox collaboration. Lay leaders from multiple jurisdictions have historically come together to plan the gatherings in their cities, an effort that mirrors Connect’s spirit of unity. Participants have described the conference as both spiritually grounding and deeply relational, offering a special space for open conversation and encouragement among Orthodox young adults .

Dates and location for this year’s Connect Conference will be announced soon.

For more information about OYM, visit theoym.org.

Media Contact:

Sloane Argyle

Director of Communications

Orthodox Youth & Young Adult Ministries

sargyle@theoym.org