The Practices, Challenges and Prospects of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Youth and Young Adult Ministries in North America

"Test all things; hold fast what is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21) Raising up a generation of young people to love and serve God is among the highest callings of the Church1 . Every effort undertaken to fulfill this heavenly calling must be continuously "tested" and evaluated, as St. Paul exhorts, we must "hold fast" to what is good, strengthen what is lacking, and "leave behind" what is not beneficial, to achieve the intended spiritual growth and fruitfulness. This thesis examines the current practices, successes, and challenges of the youth and young adult ministries within the EOTC in North America. Using qualitative research methods, including interviews and surveys, the study explores critical issues such as generational gaps, limited leadership development, and cultural tensions faced by diaspora youth. It evaluates how these factors affect ministry effectiveness and youth engagement within the Church. Based on the findings, the thesis provides strategic and practical recommendations to enhance the impact and sustainability of youth ministries across different levels of Church administration, from local parishes to archdiocesan structures. Ultimately, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on preserving Orthodox Christian identity among immigrant communities and strengthening the future of the EOTC in North America.