Fr. Ted Toppses' Reflections on the Kosmos Project 2025

Friday, September 12, 2025

 

Reflections on the Kosmos Project 2025
By Fr. Ted Toppses

The Kosmos Project 2025 was a 16-day immersive cultural and spiritual exchange program connecting the Metropolis of Boston with the Metropolis of Neapoli and Stavroupli in Thessaloniki. Presvytera Vicki and I became involved through an invitation from our spiritual father, Metropolitan Methodios, and what began as an opportunity quickly turned into one of the most inspiring and life-changing experiences of our lives.

From the very first day, we were surrounded by 21 incredible young adults whose energy, openness, and faith were truly contagious. Together, we explored Greek archaeological treasures, historic Orthodox monasteries, and beautiful churches. We were welcomed into the homes and hearts of our hosts with warmth and generosity that left a lasting impression. Over the course of the trip, bonds were formed that felt like family, and all of us—clergy and participants alike—left with a renewed sense of purpose and focus on our spiritual journey with Christ.

Each evening, when time allowed, Presvytera Vicki and I led devotional sessions for the young adults, giving them space to reflect on how their faith and cultural experiences were shaping their lives. It was humbling to see how deeply they engaged with these moments, bringing questions, insights, and heartfelt prayers that revealed just how meaningful this pilgrimage was for them.

The group itself was wonderfully diverse—ranging in age from 17 to 26, with backgrounds in law, nursing, emergency medical care, and a variety of college majors. Yet, despite their differences, they all shared the same desire: to explore their faith in a new and profound way, to connect with their Greek heritage beyond the familiar scenes of local festivals, and ultimately, to learn more about themselves and their life’s journey with God at the center.

One of the greatest blessings of the trip was being the honored guests of Metropolitan Barnabas, the spiritual leader of the Metropolis of Neapoli and Stavroupli. He welcomed us with open arms, giving us the opportunity to witness places and events that few ever see. A particularly moving moment was visiting the Monastery of St. Paisios, where we venerated his grave and spoke with Sister Anna, a nun who has served there for over 50 years. The love and peace she radiated touched our hearts in ways words cannot fully capture.

We also marveled at the breathtaking beauty of Meteora, visiting St. Stephen and Vallam Monasteries, where we saw relics and icons rarely accessible to the public. In just 14 days, we toured seven monasteries, eight churches, two archaeological sites of Philip II of Macedon, two youth camps, and even managed to relax at two beaches. Each stop along the way brought new insights, new friendships, and a deepening sense of spiritual connection.

The Greek campers we met were especially enthusiastic, eager to practice their English, share stories, and learn about life in America as Orthodox Christians. The girls at Camp Metamorphosis braided hair and made friendship bracelets with our participants, while the boys at Axion Estin challenged ours to basketball tournaments. Meals were filled with singing, dancing, and laughter—it felt as though we had stepped into a giant family celebration everywhere we went.

Representing Metropolitan Methodios and our Metropolis throughout this pilgrimage was a tremendous honor. Serving and praying in the beautiful churches around Thessaloniki alongside Metropolitan Barnabas and his clergy was uplifting and humbling. At each parish, the warmth of the clergy and laity was overwhelming; they greeted us like long-lost relatives, their love and generosity leaving an indelible mark on all of us. Our participants shared hymns in English, offering a glimpse into our worship in America, while the parishes shared their traditions with us in return.

We had always heard about Greek Philoxenia—the famed hospitality of the Greek people—but experiencing it firsthand was transformative. Time and again, our participants said, “I never knew what hospitality was until I came with the Kosmos Project.” The overflowing generosity, delicious meals, and heartfelt welcomes were beyond anything we could have imagined.

As the days went on, we witnessed strangers becoming lifelong friends, united by shared faith, laughter, and the ups and downs of travel. By the end, it was clear that despite living in different countries and speaking different languages, we were one family in Christ.

On the flight home, I asked Presvytera Vicki if she would join another Kosmos Project trip. She didn’t even pause before shouting a very loud, “YES!”—a response that summed up our experience perfectly.

When we first stepped into this role, we carried a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. Panos Coufos and Demetra Zouzas had encouraged us to “lean into the uncertainty and just appreciate the experience,” advice that at the time felt vague but turned out to be exactly what we needed. Our American tendency toward rigid schedules and detailed itineraries gave way to a more relaxed, God-centered trust in His providence. We learned to let go, to allow the Spirit to guide us, and we discovered that when we put God first, everything else falls beautifully into place.

This journey was a blessing beyond words, one we will carry in our hearts forever.

In Christ’s Love and Gratitude,
Fr. Ted Toppses