With the blessing and support of Metropolitan Polycarpos of Italy, the Eco-School reopened its doors for its second session, organized by the Orthodox Parish of Saints Menas the Great Martyr and Ephraim the New Martyr—the Miracle Workers—in Sedegliano.
On January 25, 2025, parents and children gathered enthusiastically to participate in a unique educational experience dedicated to exploring electricity.
A Day Dedicated to Exploring Electricity
This second session, titled “Dear Electrons, Where Have You Ended Up?”, was designed to introduce children to the fascinating world of electrons and the importance of electricity in everyday life. The atmosphere was vibrant, with curious children engaging in a series of interactive activities that combined learning with fun.
Under the careful guidance of the organizing team, the children embarked on a scientific journey through the “Young Scientists” program, which included educational games, intuitive visual materials, and hands-on experiments. Throughout the day, they discovered how the movement of electrons generates electricity and learned about various electronic components such as batteries, resistors, and LEDs. Additionally, they applied their newfound knowledge by designing electronic circuits and building simple circuits using batteries, resistors, and LEDs. By using measuring devices, they tested the voltage, resistance, and functionality of their circuits, gaining a deeper appreciation for the role of technology in daily life.
The session’s motto, “Let your smile change the world,” perfectly reflected the positive spirit and the goal of instilling in younger generations lasting values of responsibility and respect for God’s creation. The activities, conducted in a welcoming environment, struck a perfect balance between learning and enjoyment, leaving the children with valuable lessons on the proper use of electricity.
Ongoing Projects and Future Plans
One of the day’s highlights was the launch of the work for the second manual in a series dedicated to ecological education, titled “From Creation to the Atom – Energy for Children.” This project, blessed by Patriarch Bartholomew and introduced with a foreword by His All-Holiness, represents a collaborative effort between the teachers and children of the Eco-School. The manual will be available in Italian, Romanian, Greek, and English, aiming to support ecological education within Orthodox communities and beyond.
A Sustainable Future for the Next Generations
At the conclusion of the session, Eco-School educators Presvytera Louiza Filipescu and Physics and Electronics Professor Doina Filipescu emphasized the importance of the knowledge gained and the impact these activities can have on the children’s development: “We conclude this session with hearts full of excitement for the progress in the field of sustainable electricity. Together, we have discovered innovative solutions that not only meet current needs but also protect God’s creation, offering a cleaner and more responsible future. With eyes filled with curiosity and open minds, we continue to seek ways to combine technology with respect for the environment.”
Outlook for 2025
The Eco-School’s work remains a shining example of ecological education and commitment, with new sessions planned throughout 2025. These sessions will offer children the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and actively contribute to environmental protection.
Launched in April 2024, this initiative has already proven its vital role in shaping responsible generations capable of combining technological advancement with respect for divine creation. Through this approach, the Orthodox Parish in the Province of Udine reaffirms its dedication to ecological education, making a significant contribution to preserving a clean and sustainable environment.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
