An Idea for G.O.Y.A. Dances

If you're working with Orthodox teenagers, you may have been in the same predicament that I was a few years back...if so, give this idea a try the next time you're caught off guard. During Saturday night events, i.e. at basketball tournaments when usually a dance is scheduled, step up and "lead" from the microphone instead of the DJ having free reign. Here's what I suggest:

1. Keep your ears tuned in.

2. At the first "inappropriate" pop song played,
jump in, cutting the song short, re-introduce yourself and
initiate a trivia game.
3. Ask who knows the artist of the last played song
4. Who can name the title of that song?
5. Did I mention there are fantastic prizes at the end of the night?
6. Great - now announce that you're accepting song requests, and for anyone who suggests a good one which  reflects who **we** are, will be a lucky recipient of a prize (make it good, like a personal pizza to take back to the hotel!)

Repeat as often as needed - just please don't relinquish your trust to the DJ, and instead empower your teens to listen and take part in the music selection.Some parishes ask their teens to make a play list ahead of time. Other advisors have alternative songs in their back pockets - upbeat techno dance with minimal lyrics. Check out www.lyrics.com if you're uncertain, as you'll most likely be surprised: one night stands, oral sex, mistreatment of a person's dignity, bullying. and loss of virginity are all popular themes. Let us be strong against this desecration of our holy temples! We owe it to our young people!

If we can't offer teens a "holy"experience, than we're to blame and that my dear friends, will be our sin to answer for.

*** the we being Orthodox Christians ! ***