Investing in the Next Generation of Orthodox Leaders

2027 Application Coming Soon!

The OCN Ionian Village Scholarship is a yearly, merit-and-faith-based award designed to support one Orthodox Christian high school student selected to attend Ionian Village.

  • Award Amount: $3,000 (partial scholarship)
  • Recipients: One student annually
  • Funding Use: Applied directly to Ionian Village program costs
  • Disbursement: Paid directly to Ionian Village
  • Eligibility: Students accepted to Ionian Village and have paid deposit

This scholarship is made possible through donor generosity and reflects OCN’s mission to strengthen the future of the Church by investing in young people.

The Orthodox Christian Network (OCN) is honored to support Orthodox high school students through its annual scholarship for Ionian Village. This initiative reflects a long-standing commitment to spiritual formation, leadership development, and making transformative Orthodox experiences more accessible to families across North America.

Each year, OCN awards a partial scholarship to one eligible student attending Ionian Village, helping offset program costs and opening the door to a life-changing summer in Greece rooted in faith, worship, and community.

Scholarship Application Requirements

We are looking for young Orthodox Christians who are actively living their faith, serving others, and seeking to grow spiritually through their Ionian Village experience.

To apply, please submit the following:

  • A faith reflection essay or creative submission sharing your Orthodox Christian journey, experiences, and aspirations.
  • Information about your extracurricular activities, community service, leadership experiences, and parish involvement.
  • One recommendation letter (PDF) from a priest or another adult who can speak to your Orthodox Christian faith, character, and commitment to living a Christ-centered life (such as a teacher, mentor, community leader, or educator).

As part of the scholarship experience, applicants must also:

  • Participate in a brief video interview with OCN during the selection process.
  • Participate in a follow-up video interview after returning from Ionian Village to reflect on their experience and spiritual growth.

By applying, applicants acknowledge that these interviews may be recorded and published through OCN’s media platforms, including its website, social media channels, podcasts, and other communications.

We look forward to hearing your story and learning how this opportunity can support your continued growth in faith, service, and leadership.

Note: You must also apply separately to Ionian Village.

FAQ

Is this a full scholarship?

No, this is a partial scholarship designed to help offset costs.

Can I apply if I am already registered to go?

Yes. We welcome applicants who have already registered and paid their deposit.

Is this scholarship only need-based?
No. We value each applicant’s unique story and how this scholarship would support their ability to attend and succeed.

Can I apply for both this and the Archdiocese scholarship?

Yes, they are separate programs. OCN Scholarship for Ionian Village Summer Program is in addition to the Archdiocese scholarship, helping more Orthodox youth attend this transformative summer experience.

How are recipients selected?

Recipients are chosen based on:

  • Faith reflection essay or creative submission
  • Applicant’s unique story
  • Community and parish involvement
  • Recommendation letter
  • Overall application quality

About Ionian Village

Ionian Village is a premier Orthodox Christian summer experience hosted in Greece. Students participate in a structured, faith-centered environment that blends worship, learning, travel, and fellowship.

Participants will:

  • Engage in daily Orthodox prayer and worship
  • Explore the foundations of the Orthodox faith
  • Visit historic monasteries, churches, and sacred sites across Greece
  • Build lasting friendships grounded in Christ-centered community
  • Experience Greek culture through immersive travel and learning

This is not simply a summer camp. It is a formative experience designed to deepen faith, strengthen identity, and shape future leaders in the Church.

Purpose & Mission Alignment

OCN’s scholarship program exists to support a clear strategic goal:

Remove financial barriers that prevent Orthodox youth from encountering transformative spiritual formation experiences.

By investing in Ionian Village participants, OCN advances its broader mission of:

  • Strengthening Orthodox identity among young people
  • Supporting spiritual growth and discipleship
  • Cultivating future parish leaders
  • Expanding access to formative Church experiences

This program reflects a traditional principle of the Church: investing intentionally in the next generation ensures continuity, stability, and spiritual vitality for years to come.

Application for 2026: Closed