St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church Canton, Ohio. Celebrating Our Past Building Our Future

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1 St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church Canton, Ohio Celebrating Our Past Building Our Future July & August 2013

2 St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church Parish Administrators 2013 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 am-3:00 pm Phone: Office: Fax: Website: Rev. DR. nicholas V. gamvas, PROTOPRESBYTER Phone: Cell: Parish Council OFFICERS Members President.. Dr. William Skendelas Vince Arrigo Sia Pope Vice President.. Ron A. Darrah Rena Cotopolis Anthony Ramphos Treasurer.. James Kellamis Michael Fakelis Nicholas Ramphos Asst. Treasurer. Steve Diamant Dr. Peter Michalos Chris H. Vallos Secretary.. Philip Stavrianou Peter Papadopulos Georgia Zenallis Asst. Secretary. Christopher Msnod Church Staff Secretary... Alexandra Tank Subdeacons. Project Manager.. Stephanie Withers Sextons. Custodian.. John Sakellariou Chanters.. Choir Director... Dr. Alex Christ Sunday School Director.. Greek School.. Ladies Philoptochos Soc. Men s Club Silver Liners... Icon, Gift & Bookstore. Funeral & Makaria.. Parish Organizations Mary Griveas Dennis Tzouloufis Mary Trifelos Peter Papadopulos Kathy Dieringer Helenann Meder Fran Armatas Diane Foradas Paula Macris Ann Simatacolos Rena Cotopolis Bill Poulos, Jr. Labib El-Bardawil Dean Darrah Eustathios Fronimos Petros Gaitanos John C. Kellamis Thomas A. Cazantzes Michael A. Lazoran Labib El-Bardawil GOYA Advisors.... Carol Capocci JOY Advisors...Tiffany Manos, Despina Morgan Phaidra Sotiropoulos, Dr. Michelle Zoumberakis YAL Christina Armatas Hellenic Dancers. Eleni Paxos Agia Markella Chios Soc... Eleni Paxos Pan-Cretan Association. Maria Bourlas AHEPA. George Kalantzis Daughters of Penelope.. Katherine Glaros Maids of Athena.. Maria Paxos Sons of Pericles.. Bill Poulos, III

3 THE 4 th of JULY AMERICA THE HOME OF THE FREE AND THE LAND OF THE BRAVE! Rev. Fr. Nicholas V. Gamvas Definition of Freedom: The state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint. Personal liberty, as opposed to bondage or slavery. The power to determine action without restraint. Definition of Independence: not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, etc.; thinking or acting for oneself Two sides of the freedom coin ARE WE FREE? Not surprisingly, the Holy Bible says quite a bit about freedom, despite any impressions we might have about it being merely a book of restrictive rules. In reality, if we are willing to consider it, Scripture can help us distinguish between what it means for us to be free from something and to be free to do or be something. Freedom from and freedom to are two sides of the freedom coin. It is interesting that many of the freedoms we seek today are seen as ends in themselves, as a final goal to be attained. It s as though we think that once our particular freedom is achieved, all our problems will be solved. Why? Because we ll have freedom! But freedom from what? And freedom to do or be what? That s why Holy Scripture says that true freedom begins as a seed in the soul.. We act on our thoughts and behave according to our desires. Interestingly, the Holy Scriptures liken the human heart to a tree, in which, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. (Matthew 7:17-18; 12:33-35). The source of our actions is the heart. If it s diseased, the fruit (our actions) is rotten too. What then is this true freedom? There is a debt that every human has, a disease that we all suffer from, which no human strategy can ever conquer or cure. It is not a bondage to external things primarily, though it does work its way out in external expressions. No, our problem is much deeper. It is bondage of the will, a captivity of the soul, a deadness of heart. The Holy Bible tells us that we were created by God to honor Him and delight in Him forever. Yet, in all of this, the human heart remains free. Free to choose whatever it desires. But here s the catch the human heart is corrupted and enslaved by evil. All our thoughts, words, and actions are tainted in various degrees with prideful sin and rebellion against God. So even though we are free to choose, we only freely choose all the time. This is true freedom. And true freedom only exists in Jesus Christ. How does it happen? God changes our heart by His Holy Spirit. God makes us spiritually alive by giving us a new heart. This heart desires to love God. It sees Jesus Christ as beautiful and desires to love Him as the Lord and Savior of our life. By faith, we give our life to Jesus and receive His forgiveness and freedom from sin. Not only this, but we are now free to do the very thing we were created to do to honor and enjoy God forever. And this joy in God is from our heart our new heart given to us by God. THIS IS TRUE FREEDOM, THIS IS GRACE. Koinonia July & August

4 JULY ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT :30 5K MEETING HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! OFFICE CLOSED OFFICE CLOSED 7 9:00 2ND SUNDAY OF MATTHEW COFFEE HOUR- PARISH COUNCIL 8 6:30 5K MEETING :00 5K PACKET PICK-UP 13 8:00 100TH ANNIV. FOUNDERS 5K WALK/FUN RUN 14 9:00 SUNDAY OF THE HOLY FATHERS 15 6:30 ENDOWMENT MEETING :30 PARISH COUNCIL MTG :00 ELIAS THE PROPHET COFFEE HOUR- MEN S CLUB 21 9:00 4TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW 6:30 GREAT VESPERS ST. MARKELLA MARY MAGDALENE 22 9:00 ST. MARKELLA MARY MAGDALENE :00 ST. PANTELEIMON 28 9:00 5TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW KONTAKION Truly, the Theotokos, who is ever watchful in intercessions, who is never rejected, neither tomb nor death could control. But being the Mother of Life, He Who dwelt in her ever-verin womb did translate her to life. AUGUST 2013 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT Enjoy a safe and happy summer! 1 6:30 PARAKLESIS DORMITION FAST BEGINS 2 6:30 PARAKLESIS 3 4 9:00 6TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW 5 6:30 GREAT VESPERS TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD 6 9:00 TRANSFIG- URATION OF OUR LORD 7 7:30 PARISH COUNCIL MTG. 8 5:30 COACHES FOOTBALL PREVIEW 9 6:30 PARAKLESIS KOINONIA DEADLINE SEPT. & OCT. 10 CATERING EVENT KRASSAS CTR. 11 9:00 7TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW SACRAMENT COFFEE HOUR- TRIFELOS FAMILY 12 6:30 PARAKLESIS :30 GREAT VES- PERS DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS 15 9:00 DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS CATERING EVENT KRASSAS CTR. 18 9:00 8TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW COFFEE HOUR- SUNDAY SCHOOL TRI-ROOM RENTAL 25 9:00 9TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW COFFEE HOUR- VALLOS FAMILY Koinonia July & August 2013

5 LITURGICAL CALENDAR JULY & AUGUST JULY 7 SUNDAY 2ND SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m.- Divine Liturgy (Fr. Basil Shaheen-Sub.) JULY 14 SUNDAY SUNDAY OF THE HOLY FATHERS - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m.- Divine Liturgy (Fr. Basil Shaheen-Sub.) JULY 20 SATURDAY ELIAS THE PROPHET - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros followed by the Divine Liturgy. JULY 21 SUNDAY FOURTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy EVENING GREAT VESPERS - ST. MARY MAGDALENE & ST. MARKELLA 6:30 p.m. - Great Vespers. Guest Preacher - Deacon Orestes Varonis JULY 22 MONDAY ST. MARY MAGDALENE - ST. MARKELLA OF CHIOS - 9:00 a.m.- Orthros followed by the Divine Liturgy. JULY 27 SATURDAY ST. PANTELEIMON 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy. JULY 28 SUNDAY FIFTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy AUGUST 1 THURSDAY PARAKLESIS - - DORMITION FAST BEGINS - 6:30 p.m. AUGUST 2 FRIDAY PARAKLESIS - - 6:30 p.m. AUGUST 4 SUNDAY SIXTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy AUGUST 5 MONDAY GREAT VESPERS - HOLY TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD 6:30 p.m. - Great Vespers. AUGUST 6 TUESDAY TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros followed by the Divine Liturgy. AUGUST 7 WEDNESDAY PARAKLESIS - - 6:30 p.m. AUGUST 9 FRIDAY PARAKLESIS - - 6:30 p.m. AUGUST 11 SUNDAY SEVENTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy AUGUST 12 MONDAY PARAKLESIS - - 6:30 p.m. AUGUST 14 WEDNESDAY GREAT VESPERS - DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS 6:30 p.m. - Great Vespers. AUGUST 15 THURSDAY DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS - H 9:00 a.m. - Orthros followed by the Divine Liturgy. AUGUST 18 SUNDAY EIGHTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy. (Fr. Basil Shaheen-Sub.) AUGUST 25 SUNDAY NINTH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW - 9:00 a.m. - Orthros. 10:00 a.m. - Divine Liturgy. (Fr. Basil Shaheen-Sub.) Koinonia July & August

6 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH Pastoral Message July IN HIS PRESENCE; ALL THINGS ARE MADE NEW. (2 Cor.5:17) Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas It s nice to remember things that have happened. It s important to learn from our past and appreciate where we ve come from. But I think we need to be careful not to spend too much time looking backwards. A lot of great things have happened and we don t want to forget that. But we also need to look ahead to the future. So instead of thinking only about everything that happened in the past, let s spend some time looking ahead at what can happen in the present. How are we going to grow? How are we going to build on our relationships? How are we going to strengthen our families? How are we going to invest our lives? The future still holds many secrets, but it can be a very significant in each of our lives. Are we just trying to get through? Or is it going to be to make the best of our circumstances? Is it going to be a future defeated by your failures? Or is it going to be a future when we learn from our failures and end up succeeding? Is it going to be when trust ourselves and are disappointed? Or is it going to be when we trust in God. There s a phrase that we often hear people say: "If only I could begin again." If only I could start again, things would be different. If only I could do things over, I d do them right. I think most people find themselves saying things like this. They ve failed at some point in their lives and are living with regret. Perhaps they ve failed in their relationship with God. Perhaps they ve failed at school, or at work. Perhaps they ve really messed up in a relationship and have all kinds of regrets. Perhaps they just didn t take advantage of opportunities. Whatever the cause, people want a fresh start. I know I have often been in that position myself at different times in my life. There have been times when I have failed, or have messed up, or have felt defeated, and I have thought, If only I could begin again. I ve made bad choices and had wrong priorities, and if I could I d go back to those times and make them right. Well, there s good news for you and I, and everyone else who has ever had those thoughts: God is the new beginning for us all. He gives us a new heart. (Eze.11:19;18:31) He has made us a new creation. (2 Cor.5:17) He gives us new life. (Acts 5:20) He puts a new song in our hearts. (Ps.40:3;Ps.98:1) He s given us a new covenant in His Blood. (Lk.22:20) He renews our spirit. (Eze.18:31) He renews our passion. (Ps.103:5) He renews our strength. (Isa.57:10) His mercies are new every morning (La.3:23) In His presence, all things are made new. (2 Cor.5:17) Amen. 6 Koinonia July & August 2013

7 THE PROPHET ELIAS JULY 20 Prophet Elias, also known as Elijah was born in a remote and little known Village called Tishbe, which lies among the mountains of Gilead, on the other side of the Jordan River. This area is not too far from the country of the Gergesenes, where, in the time of our Lord the devils entered into the swine. (Luke. 8:26-39) The book of Kings of the Bible, make the following record about Elias And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead (I Kings, 17:1) He was born and raised by a Jewish family of which we know nothing. His birth place Tishbe, is interpreted to mean a converter and the name Elijah as My God of power or Jehovah is my strength. We know nothing about his childhood and his life. Most probably Elias was a child with no education or schooling. His father s name was Sadok while we know nothing about his mother. In the Book of Kings, we find Elias entering the stage of history, abruptly out of nowhere, with a word of faith and power presenting himself to the king saying And Elijah the Tishbite said Unto Ahab. As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew or rain these years, but according to my word. (I Kings, 17:1) THE ASCENTION OF PROPHET ELIAS The last moments of Elias are not as one could imagine. Elias, according to the Holy Scriptures, did not die. He was ascended to heaven in whirlwind as Elisha saw with his own eyes. The two men as they were passing on together in the country beyond Jordan and while they engaged in holy conversation, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by whirlwind into heaven. (2 Kings, 2:11). The prophetic mission of the prophet lasted fifteen years and made a profound impression on the imagination of the people of Israel. Later generations remembered Elijah and expected him to return as the forerunner of the coming day of the Lord.(Mal. 4:5) In the New Testament. People during the times of Jesus thought He was Elijah himself (Matt.16:14, Luke.8) Others thought John the Baptist was Elijah (John 1:21). At the transfiguration of Jesus, Elijah appeared together with Moses. (Matt.17:3-4; Mark.9:4-5). Troparion Tone 4 An angel in the flesh and the cornerstone of the prophets, the second forerunner of the coming of Christ, Glorious Elijah sent grace from on high to Elisha, to dispel diseases and to cleanse lepers. Therefore, he pours forth healings on those who honor him. Koinonia July & August

8 22 Η πολύαθλος και ένδοξος παρθενομάρτυς της Χίου Ανάμεσα στους πολυάριθμους Αγίους, που κοσμούν το τοπικό αγιολόγιο και τη μακρόχρονη εκκλησιαστική ιστορία του μυροβόλου νησιού της Χίου είναι και η Αγία παρθενομάρτυς Μαρκέλλα, που αποτελεί το ευλαβικό καύχημα των απανταχού της Γης Χίων και τον πολύτιμο πνευματικό θησαυρό για χιλιάδες προσκυνητές, που συρ ρέουν στον τόπο του μαρτυρίου της για να αποδώσουν τον οφειλόμενο σεβασμό στο μεγαλείο και τον ηρωισμό της, αλλά και για να ζητήσουν τη θαυματουργική της χά ρη για την επίλυση σωματικών και ψυχικών ασθενειών. Η Αγία Μαρκέλλα γεννήθηκε και μεγάλωσε στη Βολισσό, στο ιστορικό αυτό κεφα λοχώρι της βορειοδυτικής Χίου. Για τον χρόνο της γέννησης, της ζωής και του μαρτυρίου της Αγίας υπάρχει σύγχυση και ασάφεια μεταξύ των βιογράφων. Σύμφωνα με τον βιογράφο της, Όσιο Νικηφόρο τον Χίο, η Αγία Μαρκέλλα έζησε και ήκμασε περί το Ο πατέρας της ήταν ειδωλολάτρης και η χριστιανή μητέρα της απεβίωσε σε νεαρά ηλικία. Η Μαρκέλλα δια κρίθηκε από νωρίς για τη βαθιά της πίστη και αγάπη στον Χριστό, την καλοσύνη και αγνότητά της, τη σεμνότητα και την ευγένεια της ψυχής της. Προικισμένη με θεϊκή σοφία και αμέτρητα ψυχικά χαρίσματα επικοινωνούσε αδιάκοπα με τον Θεό. Αυτόν τον "επίγειο άγγελο" φθόνησε ο εωσφόρος και θέλησε να την πολεμήσει με κάθε μέσο. Έτσι ο ειδωλολάτρης και σκληρόκαρδος πατέρας της άρχισε να επιθυμεί ερωτικά την ίδια του την κόρη και να νιώθει προς αυτή μία αστείρευτη σαρκική επιθυμία. Όταν η Μαρκέλλα διαπίστωσε τον αναίσχυντο χαρακτήρα του σαρκολάτρη πατέρα της, εγκα τέλειψε το πατρικό σπίτι και αναζήτησε καταφύγιο στα βουνά της περιοχής. Τότε ο πα τέρας της κινούμενος από τις κτηνώδεις ορέξεις του και με απερίγραπτη μανία άρχι σε να ψάχνει να βρει τη νεαρή και όμορφη Μαρκέλλα. Τότε η δύστυχη και έντρομη κόρη προσπάθησε να προστατευθεί και να σώσει την τιμιότητά της. Μία μεγάλη βά τος αποτέλεσε το ασφαλές καταφύγιο της Αγίας. Ένας βοσκός όμως αντιλήφθηκε τη Μαρκέλλα και υπέδειξε τη βάτο στον μανιακό πατέρα της. Τότε ο πατέρας έβαλε φω τιά στη βάτο για να την αναγκάσει να βγει έξω από αυτή. Η Μαρκέλλα κατάφερε και βρήκε διέξοδο και έτσι γλίτωσε από τα χέρια του σαρκολάτρη πατέρα της. Στη συνέ χεια άρχισε να τρέχει πάνω στις πέτρες και τα βράχια, αλλά ο πατέρας της βλέποντας τη δυσκολία να την φτάσει, αποφάσισε να τη σημαδέψει με το τόξο του και έτσι εκτόξευσε προς αυτή ένα βέλος. Η Αγία πληγώθηκε και το αγνό της αίμα πότισε τα βράχια. Παρόλα αυτά δεν έχασε την ψυχική της δύναμη και συνέχισε να τρέχει. Οι σωματι κές της δυνάμεις άρχισαν όμως να την εγκαταλείπουν και κάποια στιγμή έπεσε κά τω ταλαιπωρημένη και πληγωμένη. Η βαθιά και ακλόνητη πίστη της την βοήθησε να βρει τη σωτήρια λύση. Με τα μάτια στραμμένα στον Ουράνιο Νυμφίο προσευχή θηκε και Του ζήτησε να σχίσει τον βράχο και να την κρύψει μέσα. Η παράκληση της Αγίας έγινε πραγματικότητα και έτσι ο βράχος σχίστηκε και δέχτηκε το σώμα της ενάρετης Μαρκέλλας μέχρι το στήθος. Ο σαρκολάτρης πατέρας φτάνοντας στον τόπο και βλέποντας το παράδοξο αυτό θαύμα, οργίστηκε ακόμη περισσότερο και έκοψε με ένα μαχαίρι τους μαστούς της και τους πέταξε στο βουνό. Στη συνέχεια αποκεφάλισε την κόρη του και πέταξε την κεφαλή της στη θάλασσα. Σύμφωνα με την παράδοση μία ασυνήθιστη λάμψη άρχισε να εκπέμπεται από την κεφαλή της Αγίας, που στέφθηκε με τον ουράνιο και άφθαρτο στέφανο της άθλησης και της θεϊκής δόξας. Ο σχισμένος βράχος, που δέχτηκε το μαρτυρικό σώμα της Αγίας, αποτελεί μέχρι σήμερα για τους προσκυνητές σημείο ευλαβικής αναφοράς και πηγή ιαμάτων, αφού όσοι προσεύχονται με πίστη, παρατηρούν τον ερυθρό χρωματισμό των βράχων και το νερό να ατμίζει. Αναρίθμητα είναι τα θαύματα, που με τη χάρη του Θεού, έχει επιτελέσει η Αγία Μαρκέλλα από την εποχή του μαρτυρίου της έως τις ημέρες μας, ενώ μάρτυρες θαυ μαστών σημείων έγιναν λαμπρές πνευματικές φυσιογνωμίες της Εκκλησίας μας, όπως Άγιος Μακάριος ο Νοταράς Επίσκοπος Κορίνθου, ο Άγιος Νεκτάριος Επίσκοπος Πενταπόλεως και ο βιογράφος και συντάκτης της Ακολουθίας της Αγίας, Όσιος Νικηφόρος ο Χίος, οι οποίοι συχνά προσέρχονταν στον τόπο του μαρτυρίου της Αγίας για να προσευχηθούν. Η μνήμη της Αγίας παρθενομάρτυρος Μαρκέλλας εορτάζεται κάθε χρόνο στις 22 Ιουλίου και λαμπρά πανήγυρις λαμβάνει χώρα στον φερώνυμο ιερό ναό της Αγίας, που βρίσκεται επί της αμμώδους παραλίας στον ομώνυμο όρμο της Βολισσού και αποτελεί παγχιακό, αλλά και πανελλήνιο προσκύνημα. Η φιλοπατρία των απανταχού της Γης ευρισκομένων Χίων, αλλά και τα αναρίθμητα θαύματα της Αγίας οδήγησαν στην ανέγερση ιερών ναών επ ονόματι της πολυάθλου και ενδόξου παρθενομάρτυρος της Χίου. Έτσι η συνοικία του Βοτανικού στην Αθήνα κοσμείται με ενοριακό ναό της Αγίας Μαρκέλλας, ενώ τα τελευταία χρόνια ανεγέρθηκε περικαλλές παρεκκλήσιο στο όνομα της Αγίας και στην περιοχή της Κάτω Κηφισιάς. Γραφικά παρεκκλήσια επ ονόματί της έχουν καταγραφεί στις Σπέτσες, την Άνδρο, τη Μήλο, τη Σαντορίνη και τη Σάμο. 8 Koinonia July & August 2013

9 SAINT MARY MAGDALENE JULY 22 Saint Mary Magdalene (original Greek H Agia Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνή), or Mary of Magdala, was one of Jesus' most celebrated disciples, and the most important woman disciple in the movement of Jesus. Jesus cleansed her of "seven demons", and as sometimes conventionally interpreted as referring to complex illnesses. She became Jesus' close friend and most prominent during His last days, being present at the cross after the male disciples (excepting John the beloved) had fled, and at his burial. She was the first person to see Jesus after his Resurrection, according to both John 20 and Mark 16:9.Mary Magdalene is considered by the Orthodox, churches to be a saint, with a feast day of July 22. The Orthodox churches also commemorate her on the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers. In the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and John, Mary Magdalene is the first eye witness to the Resurrection of Christ. John 20:16 and Mark 16:9 both straightforwardly say that Jesus' first post-resurrection appearance was to Mary Magdalene alone. Please note: *[New Testament scholar, the late Trembelas of Athens, points out that Mary's role as a witness is unusual because women at that time were not considered credible witnesses in legal proceedings. Because of this, and because of extra-biblical traditions about her subsequent missionary activity in spreading the Gospel, she is known by the title, in the Orthodox Church as: "Equal of the Apostles". In Matthew 28:9, Mary Magdalene is with the other women returning from the empty tomb when they all see the first appearance of Jesus. In Luke 24 the resurrection is announced to the women at the tomb by "two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning" who suddenly appeared next to them.] The first actual appearance by Jesus that Luke mentions is later that day, when Cleopas and an unnamed disciple walked with a fellow traveler they later realized it was Jesus. Mark 16 describes the same appearance as happening after the private appearance to Mary Magdalene. The Gospels of Mark and Luke record that the rest of the disciples did not believe Mary's report of what she saw, and neither Mary Magdalene nor any of the other women are mentioned by name in Paul's catalog of appearances at (1 Cor 15:1). Instead, Paul writes that Jesus "appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve". Indeed, after her disbelieved first report of a resurrection vision, Mary Magdalene disappears from the New Testament. She is not mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles, and her fate remains undocumented. In apocryphal texts, she is portrayed as a visionary and leader of the early movement whom Jesus loved more than he loved the other disciples. Several Gnostic gospels, such as the Gospel of Mary, written in the early 2nd century, see Mary as the special disciple of Jesus who has a deeper understanding of His teachings and is asked to impart this to the other disciples. The Orthodox Church maintains that Mary Magdalene, is distinguished from Mary of Bethany and the "sinful woman", had been a virtuous woman all her life, even before her conversion. Orthodoxy has never celebrated her as a penitent. This view finds expression both in her written life and in the liturgical service in her honor that is included in the July Menaion and performed on her annual feast-day on July 22. There is a tradition that says, that Mary Magdalene led so chaste a life that the devil thought she might be the one who was to bear Christ into the world, and for that reason he sent the seven demons to trouble her. Eastern Orthodox Christianity refers to her as "Equal to the Apostles. Saint Mary Magdalene is honored as one of the first witnesses of the Resurrection of Jesus, and received a special commission from Him to Go tell the Apostles of his resurrection. She is often depicted in icons bearing a vessel of ointment, not because of the anointing by the "sinful woman", but because she was among those women who brought ointments to the tomb of Jesus. for this reason, she is called a Myrrhbearer. According to Eastern traditions, she retired to Ephesus with the Theotokos (Mary, the Mother of God) and there she died. Her relics were transferred to Constantinople in 886 and are preserved there. For centuries, it has been the custom of many Christians to share dyed and painted eggs, particularly on Pascha Sunday. The eggs represent new life, and Christ bursting forth from the tomb. Among Eastern Orthodox Christians this sharing is accompanied by the proclamation "Christ is Risen!" and then the response: Truly He Is Risen. One tradition concerning Mary Magdalene says that, following the death and resurrection of Jesus, she used her position to gain an invitation to a banquet given by Tiberius. When she met him, she held a plain egg in her hand and exclaimed, "Christ is Risen!" Caesar laughed, and said that Christ rising from the dead was as likely as the egg in her hand turning red while she held it. Before he finished speaking, the egg in her hand turned a bright red, and she continued proclaiming the Gospel to the entire imperial house. [ Another version of this story can be found in popular belief, mostly in Greece. It is believed that after the Crucifixion, Mary Magdalene and the Virgin Mary put a basket full of eggs at the foot of the cross. There, the eggs were colored red by the blood of the Christ. Then, Mary Magdalene brought them to Tiberius Caesar. ] T. Coletti, Mary Magdalene and the Saints, University of Pennsylvania Press (2004); E. De Boer, Mary Magdalene: Beyond the Myth, SCM Press (1997), pp.94. Koinonia July & August

10 26 Αγία Παρασκευή ή Παρασκευή η Οσιομάρτυς ή Παρασκευή η Παρθενομάρτυς ή Παρασκευή Αθληφόρος είναι Αγία της Ορθοδόξου και Καθολικής εκκλησίας και θεωρείται προστάτιδα των ματιών. Έζησε στη Ρώμη κατά το 2ο αιώνα και υπέστη μαρτυρικό θάνατο επί ημερών Αυτοκράτορος Μάρκου Αυρηλίου. Ο βίος της H Αγία Παρασκευή γεννήθηκε σε ένα προάστιο της Ρώμης επί Αυτοκρατορίας Αδριανού. Γονείς της ήταν ο Αγαθόνικος και η Πολιτεία, που ήσαν θεοσεβούμενοι Χριστιανοί και οικονομικά εύποροι. Για πολλά χρόνια δεν μπορούσαν να αποκτήσουν παιδί και τελικά απέκτησαν την Παρασκευή, μετά από πολλά χρόνια θερμής προσευχής. Η Αγία Παρασκευή μάλιστα γεννήθηκε ημέρα Παρασκευή και έτσι αποφάσισαν να της δώσουν το όνομα της ημέρας που γεννήθηκε. Η ανατροφή της από μικρή ηλικία έγινε με βάση Χριστιανικά πρότυπα. Έτσι από μικρή ηλικία έδειξε ιδιαίτερη κλίση προς το λόγο του ευαγγελίου και ξεχώριζε για τον ενάρετο βίο της. Παρότι το παρουσιαστικό της ήταν ιδιαίτερα θελκτικό και πολλοί εύποροι της εποχής είχαν ζητήσει την όμορφη Παρασκευή σε γάμο, αυτή αρνείτο, προτιμούσε την διακονία των γονιών της και των γειτόνων της, την προσήλωση στην προσευχή και τη μελέτη των Γραφών. Με το πέρασμα μάλιστα των ετών απέκτησε και σημαντική βιβλική κατάρτιση. Σε ηλικία 20 ετών, η Αγία Παρασκευή έχασε τον πατέρα της. Αυτό στάθηκε σημαντικός παράγοντας στην εξέλιξη της πορείας της διότι πλέον ήταν μόνη και με αρκετά χρήματα ώστε να πραγματοποιήσει φιλανθρωπικό και ιεραποστολικό έργο που ποθούσε. Έτσι εκποιεί όλη της την περιουσία σε φτωχούς και αφιερώνει το χρόνο της στην ανακούφιση των ασθενών. Δίνεται ολοκληρωτικά στην ιεραποστολή, διδάσκει σε σπίτια γυναίκες, μικρά παιδιά, διακονεί αδυνάτους, σπεύδει για τις ανάγκες τις εκκλησίας της Ρώμης. Μάλιστα με τον καιρό επέκτεινε τη δράση και σε γειτονικά χωρία και εκκλησίες. Πλησίαζε ιδίως νέες γυναίκες, προκαλούσε συζητήσεις, ομιλούσε για το Χριστό, το παράδειγμά Του. Γρήγορα όμως έφτασε στα αυτιά του Αυτοκράτορα Αντωνίνου οι δραστηριότητες της Παρασκευής, με αποτέλεσμα να οδηγηθεί ενώπιόν του. Η σεμνή και όμορφη εμφάνιση της στον Αυτοκράτορα μάλιστα λέγεται πως τον εντυπωσίασε. Αλλά και η σύνεσή της, το θάρρος της και η διαύγεια πνεύματος έγιναν αντιληπτά από τον Αντωνίνο, ο οποίος δεν ήθελε να εφαρμόσει τα μέτρα του Ρωμαϊκού νόμου σε βάρος της, όπως ορίζονταν για τους Χριστιανούς. Δοκίμασε πολλές μεθόδους ιδιαίτερα κολακευτικές για γυναίκα, αλλά τελικά έμεινε αμετακίνητη στη θέση της. Η Παρασκευή τελικά συνελήφθη και οδηγήθηκε σε τιμωρία βασανισμού μέχρι να ομολογήσει την αποστροφή της από το χριστιανισμό. Αρχικά της έθεσαν μια πυρακτωμένη περικεφαλαία στην κεφαλή της. Εν συνεχεία και αφού δε λύγισε, ρίχτηκε στην απομόνωση. Μια οπισθοχώρηση άλλωστε θα σήμαινε μεγάλη νίκη του Αυτοκράτορος και πλήγμα ιδιαίτερα στο γυναικείο Χριστιανικό πληθυσμό που θα έβλεπε τη θερμότερη εκπρόσωπό της να αλλαξοπιστεί. Αυτή όμως αντί να λυγίσει, θεώρησε εξαιρετικό χρόνο την απομόνωση για προσευχή. Μάλιστα το βράδυ άγγελος Κυρίου ενεφανίσθη ενώπιόν της και την ελευθέρωσε από τα δεσμά της. Η Παρασκευή ενώπιον του Αυτοκράτορα πλέον πάλι, έμεινε σταθερή, ο Αντωνίνος κατάλαβε πλέον το μάταιο της προσπάθειάς του και διέταξε σε βασανισμό μέχρι θανάτου. Έτσι την οδήγησαν ενώπιον ενός καζανιού που περιείχε καυτό λάδι. Όμως εδώ αναφέρεται από τον βιογράφο της μέγα σημείο. Πως ενώ εισήχθη στο θερμό λάδι, παρέμενε ανέπαφη. Όταν το άκουσε ο Αντωνίνος δεν πίστεψε σε κάτι τέτοιο και θέλησε ο ίδιος να διαπιστώσει το αληθές, όμως πλησιάζοντας το λέβητα τα μάτια του βλάφτηκαν, όταν η Παρασκευή του έριξε λίγο λάδι στα μάτια, με αποτέλεσμα να τυφλωθεί. Η Παρασκευή όμως με θαυματουργικό τρόπο θεράπευσε τα μάτια του. Έτσι μέχρι και σήμερα θεωρείται προστάτης των ματιών. Μετά το γεγονός ο Αντωνίνος άφησε ελεύθερη την Παρασκευή. Μάλιστα από το γεγονός αυτό και έπειτα ο Αντωνίνος διατήρησε θετική για τη εποχή στάση για τους χριστιανούς και για αυτό του δόθηκε το προσωνύμιο «Ευσεβής». Έτσι η Παρασκευή επέστρεψε στο έργο της κάτι που έδωσε πολύ δύναμη στη χριστιανική κοινότητα, ιδίως δε στις γυναίκες που στο πρόσωπό της έβλεπαν ένα σπουδαίο στήριγμα. Όμως σύντομα τον Αντωνίνο διαδέχθηκε ο Μάρκος Αυρήλιος. Μέσα στους πρώτους χριστιανούς που συνέλαβε ήταν και η Παρασκευή. Ο ίδιος, έδωσε εντολή σε δύο έπαρχους να τη βασανίσουν. Ο ένας ονομαζόταν Ασκληπιός, ήταν αυτός που την έριξε σε χώρο που φυλάσσονταν φίδια, τα οποία όμως πέθαναν όταν την πλησίασαν. Ο Ασκληπιός ταράχτηκε, πιθανώς να γνώριζε και αυτά που οι χριστιανοί μεταξύ τους συζητούσαν ή ακόμα να ήξερε τα λεγόμενα για την ίδια τη Παρασκευή. Μετά τα γενόμενα ανέλαβε δράση ο έτερος έπαρχος ονόματι Ταράσιος. Αυτός όμως της απέκοψε την κεφαλήν και έτσι βρήκε τέλος η ζωή της Αγίας και μεγαλομάρτυρος Παρασκευής. Χριστιανοί περιμάζεψαν το λείψανό της και εν καιρώ το τοποθέτησαν στη βάση του θυσιαστηρίου. Η μνήμη της εορτάζεται στις 26 Ιουλίου. 10 Koinonia July & August 2013

11 SAINT MARKELLA - PATRON SAINT OF CHIOS JULY 22 The holy and glorious Virgin-martyr Markella of Chios (also Marcella) is the patron saint of Chios and was born and lived in the village of Volissos of Chios. Her feast day is celebrated on July 22. Markella was born and lived in the village of Volissos of Chios and lived during the fourteenth century. Her mother was a devout Christian but her father was an idolater. At a young age, her mother passed away and Markella continued to study her bible, pray to God and live a life according to what she was taught. Her father began to have sinful desires for Markella. By the time she had reached her eighteenth birthday, her father's desires had begun to show and his behavior resulted in Markella leaving home. She went to a nearby mountain and hid in a bush. Her father found her, with the help of a local herdsmen, and they set fire to the bush to force her to show. Markella ran to the sea to escape but her father aimed an arrow at her and wounded her. The blood of the saint dyed the rocks and to this very day, during the festivities for her feast day, at a specific time, her blood becomes visible on these rocks for all the faithful who bear witness to this miracle. Her final moments were spent in prayer to Christ with a request that the rocks would open for her to hide from her father and this happened. Everything but her head was covered so when her father found her, he cut off her head and threw it into the sea. Her head floated to the nearby beach of Komi. For many years, the locals could not locate the head until one day an Italian Naval ship was in the area. In the evening, they could see a bright light coming from the distance and when they got closer they witnessed a head, floating in the water, lit by upright floating candles. Immediately, they realized that this was a sacred miracle they were witness to and they took the head of the Saint back to their homeland. Holy water is said to spring from the rocks that mark her martyrdom. Many pilgrims visit this location and every year on the 22nd of July, during the commemoration services for the Saint, the holy sea water in the rock pool boils during the entire Paraklesis Service; this phenomenon only occurs in the presence of a priest. If a pilgrim's faith is strong, a local tradition is that the water in the rock-pool will feel extremely warm to touch. Apolytikion Rose of piety and sprout of Chios, we honor with canticles Saint Markella who was beheaded by her father's hand, as she guarded the commands of Christ, give strength and save from danger, us who cry unto you. Glory to Him who gave you strength, glory to Him who crowned you. Glory to Him who works through you, healings for all the faithful. Koinonia July & August

12 SAINT PARASKEVI JULY 26 St Paraskevi was born in Rome about 140 AD of Greek Christian parents. Her father, Agathon was rich and her mother, Politia, had many attributes, the greatest of which was her charitability. Agathon and Politia had been married for many years but they were childless. They prayed to God to bless them with a child which they would raise in a true Christian atmosphere. Their prayers were answered with the birth of a girl and because she was born on the sixth day of the week, they named her Paraskevi, the Greek word for Friday. What impressed Paraskevi the most was not her parents' guidance, but the Christian life which they led. Thus, she knew from a young age, the way of life she would one day lead. She obtained her education from secular books and from the Scriptures. She was also very knowledgeable in the field of philosophy. Bolstered by her Christian upbringing and philosophy, she often conversed with other women about Christianity, trying to strengthen their faith in this new religion. Many noblemen wanted to marry this beautiful, educated and rich woman. Her understanding and kindness made her even more desirable, but having a higher goal in life, Paraskevi rejected any marriage proposals. When she was 20 years old, both her parents died. Filled with the spirit of Christ and Christian ideals, she sold all her worldly goods and dispersed most of her money among the poor. The remainder was contributed to a community treasury which supported a home for young virgins and widows who had dedicated their lives to the teachings of Christianity. These women had, however, strayed far from the word of the Gospel and, therefore, Paraskevi remained in this home for many years and taught them the true meaning of Christianity. This was not enough for her, however, and unprotected she went out to teach the way of Christ, knowing that death was waiting for her at the end of her journey. It was during this period that the Jews and Romans persecuted the new religion with the greatest intensity. She left Rome at the age of 30 and began her holy mission, passing through many cities and villages. She was not caught immediately and put to death because Antonius Pius ruled Rome at this time, and he did not execute Christians without a trial. Instead, he protected them against the blind mania of the Jewish and Roman inhabitants. A Christian could only be brought to trial if a formal complaint were lodged against him by another citizen. However, at one time Antonius had to repeal this law because of the many disasters which had befallen Rome, and which were blamed on the Christians. Eventually, Antonius heard of St. Paraskevi's holy mission. Upon her return to Rome, several Jews filed complaints about her and Antonius summoned her to his palace to question her. Attracted by her beauty and humility he tried with kind words to make her denounce her faith, even promising to marry her and make her an empress. Angered by her refusal he had a steel helmet, which fitted tightly around her head, lined with nails and placed on her head. It had no effect on the Saint and many who witnessed this miracle converted to Christianity. Hearing of this, Antonius had them put to death. Thrown into prison, Paraskevi asked God to give her the strength to face the terror which awaited her. Antonius again continued the torture by having her hung by her hair and her hands and arms burned with torches. The Saint suffered greatly, but had the will not to submit to the pain. Antonius then prepared a large kettle of oil and tar, boiled the mixture and then had Paraskevi immersed in it. Miraculously she stood as if she were being cooled rather than burned. Angered, Antonius thought that she was using magic to keep the contents cool, but the Saint told him that he could test it. She took some of the boiling liquid and threw it in the Emperor's face. It burned his eyes and blinded him. She stepped out of the kettle and went to Antonius, telling him that only the Christian God could cure him. Immediately, he regained his sight and humbled by the miracle he freed the Saint and ended all persecutions against the Christians throughout the Roman Empire. Free now, Paraskevi went forth with greater zeal to accomplish her apostolic mission. As long as Antonius was alive she taught without fear, however the Emperor died at which time Marcus Aurelius came to power. During his reign a pestilence befell Rome and many people died. Once again the Christians were blamed. The Emperor was forced to change the laws dealing with "non-believers". Paraskevi was captured in a city which was ruled by a man called Asclipius. Refusing to sacrifice to the pagan gods, she was thrown into a pit with a large snake. The Saint made the sign of the cross and the snake did not harm her. Asclipius, realizing that a great and mighty power guarded Paraskevi, she was again set free to teach others about Christianity. She soon arrived at the city in which she would meet her death. Taracius was the ruler there, and he summoned her to the palace for trial. As Antonius, he also ordered his soldiers to prepare a kettle filled with boiling oil and melted tar and the Saint was placed in it. Once again, nothing happened, and many of the onlookers converted to Christianity. Paraskevi was then tied and beaten and afterwards imprisoned and a huge rock placed on her chest. She prayed to Christ to help her be strong. She was convicted and condemned to death. When the Saint was taken out of the city to be beheaded, she asked to be left alone for a few moments so that she might pray for the last time. Afterwards, the soldiers returned and executed the Saint. 12 Koinonia July & August 2013

13 SAINT PANTELEIMON PATRON SAINT OF OUR PHILOPTOCHOS JULY 27 The holy, glorious and right-victorious Greatmartyr Panteleimon the Unmercenary Healer was martyred under the reign of Emperor Maximian (ca. 305 A.D.). His feast day is celebrated on July 27. His parents were Eustorgius of Nicomedia, a pagan, and Saint Eubula (March 30). They named him Pantaleon, which means in all things like a lion, but when he converted to Christianity, he changed his name to Panteleimon, which means all-merciful. He learned about Christianity from the priest who later baptized him, Saint Hermolaus. Hermolaus was living with two other priests, Hermippus and Hermocrates; the three were "survivors of the massacre of 20,000 Christians in 303 (December 28)." St. Panteleimon had been educated as a physician, and he "dedicated his life to the suffering, the sick, the unfortunate and the needy. He treated all those who turned to him without charge, healing them in the name of Jesus Christ. He visited those held captive in prison. These were usually Christians, and he healed them of their wounds. In a short time, reports of the charitable physician spread throughout the city. Forsaking the other doctors, the inhabitants began to turn only to St. Panteleimon." Other physicians brought his case before the Emperor Maximian. St. Panteleimon confessed to being a Christian and refused to offer sacrifice to the state gods. "[He] suggested that a sick person, for whom the doctors held out no hope, should be brought before the emperor. Then the doctors could invoke their gods, and Panteleimon would pray to his God to heal the man. A man paralyzed for many years was brought in, and pagan priests who knew the art of medicine invoked their gods without success. Then, before the very eyes of the emperor, the saint healed the paralytic by calling on the name of Jesus Christ. The ferocious Maximian executed the healed man, and gave St. Panteleimon over to fierce torture." Hermolaus, Hermippus, and Hermocrates were brought forth; they confessed and were beheaded. Throughout the many tortures, St. Panteleimon remained untouched. Enraged, Maximian ordered that St. Panteleimon be beheaded. The soldiers took him to an olive tree, but when they struck him while he was praying, the sword melted like wax. After he finished his prayer, "a Voice was heard from Heaven, calling the passion-bearer by his new name and summoning him to the heavenly Kingdom." He instructed the soldiers to rise from their knees where they had fallen in fear and to complete the execution. After they followed his instruction, the olive tree became covered with fruit. Although his body was thrown into a fire, it came out unharmed and was buried by Christians. His head is located on the island of Andros at the Panachrantos monastery and, on occassions, is taken to other monasteries for veneration. Some of his relics can be found at the Putna Monastery (Bucovina, Romania), as well as in the Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Constanţa, Romania. "St. Panteleimon is invoked in the prayers at the blessing of water and the blessing of oil, together with St. Hermolaus and the other unmercenaries and wonder-workers." Apolytikion (Tone 3) Panteleimon, Saintly champion and healer, intercede with our merciful God to grant our souls remission of sins. Koinonia July & August

14 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH Pastoral Message August BEING ORTHODOX IN A NEGATIVE WORLD Rev. Dr. Nicholas V. Gamvas Complaining kills joy. It makes us unhappy. It makes everyone around us unhappy too. How many of us like to be around complainers? The problem is that once we start to complain it is hard to stop. Complaining can become a habit and to tell you the truth it is a bad habit. We can find something to complain about all the time. If it is raining of course we can complain about that. But we could also rejoice that the ground is being refreshed and watered. If it is sunny we could complain about that saying, Oh no I will probably get sun-burned. We are somewhat conditioned by our society to complain. Look at the headlines in our newspapers and on television. I would say that most of what we see is bad news. We are bombarded continuously with what s wrong with everything. By our own nature and by our conditioning we tend to develop the habit of complaining. But that is not how the Holy Scriptures and the Holy Fathers of the Church tell us to respond in a negative world. Look at Philippians chapter two: Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. (Philippians 2:14-16) We are to be different than the rest of the world. I like the way the St. Paul states these verses: Do everything readily and cheerfully no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You ll be living proof that I didn t go to all this work for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16) HOW TO CONQUER COMPLAINING The Holy Bible says "Do everything without complaining and arguing." How do you do that? 1. Admit there Is A PROBLEM If we are a constant complainer we have a problem. For one thing it is not how God wants us to approach the world. He wants us to - Do all things without complaining and disputing. Proverbs chapter twenty-eight says: People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (Proverbs 28:13) One of the most difficult parts of correcting a problem is to admit that we have one. Take some time and listen to ourselves. Ask ourselves: How much time do I spend griping, complaining, arguing and saying life is rotten. If you spend a major amount of your time verbalizing the negative you have a problem. Admit it. In the verse we read from Proverbs twenty-eight, it gives us two steps on the way to correct the problem. Go ahead and circle the words confess and turn. We need to confess when we are doing wrong and we also need to stop doing it. I know this is easier said than done but the first step to solving a problem is to admit that we have one. 2. Change your SELF-TALK Most people talk to themselves most of the time. I know that I do. I don t mean this in a negative way but when I am trying to think things through I use language. How else can we think? I do not think without the use of language. That is self-talk. What you are thinking in your mind what you are saying to your self what you are meditating on that is your self-talk. Be very careful of your self-talk. We can easily slip into negative self-talk. Change your self-talk. Paul tells us in the book of Philippians: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8) We need to change our self-talk to thinking on those things which are positive not negative. 14 Koinonia July & August 2013

15 Pastoral Message Continued 3. Speak POSITIVELY Not only should we think positive thoughts we should also speak positive words. Lift people up don t tear them down. Complaining is a habit it s a bad habit. Habits are only broken by replacing them with something else. Take out the complaining and replace it with positive speaking. No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29) We should develop the attitude of gratitude because we know that God is in control. He is more powerful than any problem He is more faithful than any failure we can experience He is truer than any trouble we can find ourselves in. My God is bigger than any problem. He is stronger than any situation. He is constantly working for our good in every circumstance that we will ever find ourselves in. Whenever we are complaining we are usually getting our eyes off the powerfulness of our God and focusing on our problems. We can focus on either the negative or the positive that choice is ours. Is the cup half empty or half full? It all depends on how we look at it. Of course there are things in our lives that are not perfect they are not supposed to be. We are not living in Heaven yet. We are still on earth where things still break and fall apart. Things get dirty they wear out they get holes in them they get stained they get ruined and we have to deal with it. But God is more concerned with our holiness than He is with our happiness. He is more concerned with our character than He is with our comfort. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. God is in the process of changing your life. He wants you to be more like Jesus develop an attitude of gratitude for that is God s will for your life. 4. Look For God In EVERY SITUATION If you are a Christian God is always active in your life. He is there in each and every situation. You may not be aware of it but He is there. The Bible says: I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion. Philippians 1:6 (HCSB) If you want to get victory over complaining, look for God s hand in all of your situations and circumstances. If you are going through some rough times be aware God is there. Second Corinthians chapter four says: For our present troubles are small and won t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NLT) Look for God in every situation. Paul is saying that problems will come into our lives there is no doubt in this fact but be aware God is there and He cares how you handle them. Your problem no matter how big it seems is temporary. It s small in light of how long you re going to live in eternity. So look for God s hand in the circumstances. Positive people realize that God is in control. God is fitting everything into a pattern and His purpose is greater than your problem. The reason why over and over in the Bible we are told not to complain is this complaining leaves God out of the situation. When I complain about my circumstances I m really saying: "God isn t big enough to take care of me." If you are a constant complainer you need to take a good long look at your faith in God. He will never leave you. He will always take care of you. What are the positive results of non-complaining life? Let s look at our focal Scripture verse again: Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. (Philippians 2:14-16) Do everything readily and cheerfully no bickering, no second-guessing allowed! Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society. Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God. Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I ll have good cause to be proud of you on the day that Christ returns. You ll be living proof that I didn t go to all this work for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16) This means that when we don t complain we are changing the atmosphere of the world we live in. We are a breath of fresh air. We are different than most people. We carry a message of hope we carry the Good News in a world that is filled with bad news. We carry a message of light in a dark world. Jesus said it this way: You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14) Our culture needs some good news. It needs someone to bring them a message of hope. We can help change the world. Check our attitude. Let s be Orthodox in a negative world. Amen. Koinonia July & August

16 Η ΚΟΙΜΗΣΙΣ ΤΗΣ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ εορτή τη Κοιμήςεω τη Θεοτόκου, πού εορτάζει ςτι 15 Αυγούςτου ο χριςτιανικό κόςμο, είναι η μεγαλυτέρα από τισ εορτέσ που καθιέρωςε η Εκκληςία προσ τιμήν τησ Μητρόσ του Κυρίου, τισ θεομητορικέσ εορτέσ. Ίςωσ είναι και η παλαιοτέρα από όλεσ. Τισ πρώτεσ μαρτυρίεσ έχουμε γι αυτήν κατά τον Ε αιώνα, γύρω ςτην εποχή που ςυνεκλήθη η Γ Οικουμενική Σύνοδοσ τησ Εφέςου (451), που καθώριςε το θεομητορικό δόγμα και έγινε αιτία να αναπτυχθή η τιμή ςτο πρόςωπο τησ Θεοτόκου. Για πρώτη φορά φαίνεται ότι ςυνεςτήθη ςτα Ιεροςόλυμα την 13 Αυγούςτου και λίγο αργότερα μετετέθη ςτισ 15 του ιδίου μηνόσ. Είχε δε γενικότερο θεομητορικό χαρακτήρα, χωρίσ ειδική αναφορά ςτο γεγονόσ τησ Κοιμήςεω. Ωνομάζετο ημέρα τη Θεοτόκου Μαρία. Κέντρο του πανηγυρις μού αναφέρεται ςτην αρχή ένα Κάθιςμα, ναόσ επ ονόματί τησ, που ευρίςκετο έξω από τα Ιεροςόλυμα ςτο τρίτο μίλιο τησ οδού που οδηγούςε ςτην Βηθλεέμ. Η ςύνδεςη τησ εορτήσ αυτήσ προσ την Κοίμηςη τησ Θεοτόκου έγινε ςτον περίφημο ναό τησ Παναγίασ που βριςκόταν ςτην Γεςθημανή, το ευκτήριο του Μαυρικίου, όπου υπήρχε και ο τάφοσ τησ. Αυτόσ ο ναόσ πολύ ςύντομα πήρε τον χαρακτήρα του μεγαλύτερου θεομητορικού προςκυνήματοσ και η ακτινοβολία του έγινε αιτία η πανήγυρίσ του κατά την 15η Αυγούςτου γρήγορα να διαδοθή ς'ολόκληρο τον χριςτιανικό κόςμο ςε ανατολή και δύςη ςαν εορτή τησ Κοιμήςεωσ τησ Θεοτόκου. Αργότερα εξήρθη η εορτή με την προπαραςκευαςτική νηςτεία και την παράταςι του εορταςμού μέχρι τησ 23ησ ή και μέχρι του τέλουσ του Αυγούςτου και έγινε όχι μόνο η μεγαλυτέρα θεομητορική εορτή αλλά και μία από τισ ςπουδαιότερεσ εορτέσ του εκκληςιαςτικού έτουσ. Αυτό βέβαια ήταν φυςικό να γίνη, γιατί η Θεοτόκο είναι το προςφιλέςτερο και ιερώτερο πρόςωπο μετά τον Κύριο και γι αυτό ςυνεκέντρωςε την τιμή και την ευλάβεια όλων των χριςτιανικών γενεών. Αναρίθμητοι ναοί και μονέσ έχουν κτιςθεί προσ τιμήν τησ Κοιμήςεώσ τησ, θαυμάςιεσ τοιχογραφίεσ παριςτάνουν ςε κάθε ναό πίςω από την κεντρική είςοδο ςε εκπληκτικέσ ςυνθέςεισ την ιερά τησ κηδεία, ύμνοι εκλεκτοί έχουν διακοςμήςει την ακολουθία τησ και λόγοι λαμπροί και εγκώμια εξεφωνήθηςαν από τουσ Πατέρεσ και νεωτέρουσ εκκληςιαςτικούσ άνδρεσ κατά την ημέρα τησ μνήμησ τησ. Ολεσ οι ανθρώπινεσ γενεέσ ςυναγωνίςθηςαν ςτην προςφορά ό,τι εκλεκτοτέρου είχαν να παρουςιάςουν, για να μακαρίςουν έργω και λόγω την Παρθένο Μαρία. A 16 Koinonia July & August 2013

17 THE DORMITION (KOIMISIS) OF OUR MOST HOLY LADY THE THEOTOKOS AND EVER VIRGIN MARY AUGUST 15 In simplicity, concerning the Dormition (Koimisis-Falling Asleep) of the Theotokos, this is what the Church has received from ancient times from the tradition of the Holy Fathers. When the time drew nigh that our Savior was well-pleased to take His Mother to Himself, He declared unto her through an Angel that in three days, He would translate her from this temporal life to eternity and bliss. On hearing this, she went up with haste to the Mount of Olives, where she prayed continuously. Giving thanks to God, she returned to her house and prepared whatever was necessary for her burial. While these things were taking place, clouds caught up the Apostles from the ends of the earth, where each one happened to be preaching, and brought them at once to the house of the Mother of God, who informed them of the cause of their sudden gathering. As a mother, she consoled them in their affliction, and then raised her hands to Heaven and prayed for the peace of the world. She blessed the Apostles, and, reclining upon her bed with seemliness, gave up her all-holy spirit into the hands of her Son and God. With reverence and many lights, and chanting burial hymns, the Apostles took up that Godreceiving body and brought it to the sepulcher, while the Angels from Heaven chanted with them, and sent forth her who is higher than the Cherubim. But one Jew, moved by malice, audaciously stretched forth his hand upon the bed and immediately received from divine judgment the wages of his audacity. Those daring hands were severed by an invisible blow by the Archangel Michael. But when he repented and asked forgiveness, his hands were restored. When they had reached the place called Gethsemane, they buried there with honor the allholy body of the Theotokos, which was the source of Life. But on the third day after the burial, when they were eating together, and raised up the artos (bread) in Jesus' Name, as was their custom, and the Theotokos appeared in the air, saying "Rejoice" to them. From this they learned concerning the bodily translation of the Theotokos into the Heavens. Amen. Koinonia July & August

18 την Ιερά Μονήτου Αγίου Νικολάου, Νήσο Άνδρο Ένα Ιερό άκουσμα, ευχάριστο άκουσμα, πού έχει σχέση με την Πανάχραντο Δέσποινα του κόσμου είναι ή Ιερά Εικόνα Της στη Μονή Αγίου Νικολάου στην Άνδρο, πού όμως συνοδεύεται με το άκρως γλυκόηχο, τιμητικό και τόσο ελπιδοφόρο για τους πονεμένους κυρίως της ζωής επίθετο, «Παναγία ή Μυροβλύτισσα», ή «Κυρά Ανδριώτισσα». Είναι ή κατ' εξοχήν γνωστή σε πολλούς πιστούς ως «Μυροβλύτισσα» Εικόνα της Παναγίας. Σπάνιο το φαινόμενο της μυροβλυσίας ακόμη και στις ονομαστές εικόνες της Παναγίας. Διαφοροτρόπως το Θείο ενεργεί και μέσω των Εικόνων. Το γιατί έτσι ενεργεί και γιατί ή εν λόγω εικόνα μυροβλύζει, αυτό δεν είναι δικό μας θέμα. Εμείς, με βάση το γεγονός, καταγράφουμε και λέμε ότι είναι μια ξεχωριστή και απτή προσφορά, δωρεά, ευλογία και χάρη για τους παντοιοτρόπως θλιμμένους της ζωής. Εκ των πραγμάτων φαίνεται ότι και στο άκουσμα ότι ή Εικόνα αυτή μυροβλύζει, τονώνεται ή πίστη αναπτερώνεται το ηθικό, κρατύνετε ή ελπίδα και προσελκύονται οι πιστοί στη Χάρη Της στο να φθάσουν στην Άνδρο, να προσκυνήσουν και ζητήσουν έλεος, δια μέσου του μύρου. Άπ' όλες τις Εικόνες πού εδώ παραθέτουμε, είναι μάλλον ή τέταρτη πού δεν έχει επισκεφθεί ό γράφων το παρόν. Παρά ταύτα την γνωρίζω από πιστούς πού την έχουν επισκεφθεί. Εξαιρέτως όμως τη γνωρίζω από το μύρο της, από το μυρωμένο βαμβάκι πού μου έχουν προσφέρει προσκυνητές. Αυτό το άρωμα, αυτή ή ειδική ευωδιά, είναι διαπεραστική, δυνατή και ταυτόχρονα ευχάριστη. Χωρίς υπερβολή δεν ταυτίζεται με αλλά ευώδη πού πωλούν τα αρωματοπωλεία. Όπου δε συμβεί να ανοίξει κανείς το μυρωμένο βαμβάκι, γίνεται αισθητή ή ευωδία. Έτσι θέλει και ενεργεί ή Χάρη της Θεοτόκου. Άλλα περί αυτού και στη συνέχεια. Σύμφωνα με αυτό, ή Εικόνα αυτή φέρει το χαρακτηριστικό γνώρισμα και την επωνυμία της ρίζης του Ίεσσαί, και τούτο επειδή δεξιά και αριστερά της κυρίως εικόνος ό αγιογράφος έχει αγιογραφήσει Προφήτες οί όποιοι μίλησαν και έγραψαν για την καταγωγή της Παναγίας από τον Ίεσσαί τον Δαυίδ. Ως προς την προέλευση της ή Εικόνα προσφέρθηκε ως δώρον στο Μετόχι της Μονής Αγίου Νικολάου Άνδρου πού υπήρχε στην Κων/πολη, από τον περιώνυμο Ναό των Βλαχερνών. Το πότε αυτό συνέβη δεν αναφέρεται παρά μόνο το ότι οί Πατέρες του Μετοχίου προσέφεραν την εικόνα στην κυρία μονή στην Άνδρο τον 16ο αιώνα. Σύμφωνα με τα γραφόμενα, άγνωστο πότε μυρόβλυσε ή Εικόνα. Μπορούμε να πούμε κατ' εικασία ότι ή μυρόβλυση είναι δύσκολο να είχε αρχίσει όταν ή Εικόνα ήταν στο Ναό των Βλαχερνών, διότι δεν θα εδωρίζετο. Ίσως να άρχισε στο Μετόχι στην Πόλη. Ας ληφθεί ως δεδομένο ότι μυρόβλυσε στο Μοναστήρι του Αγ. Νικολάου, στο μόνιμο πλέον θρονί της. Ή φράση «εκχέον ανά τους αιώνας έως των ήμερων μας μύρον», αφήνει να νοηθεί ότι ή Εικόνα στο Μοναστήρι μυροβλύζει αιώνες. 18 Koinonia July & August 2013

19 Ask Father Nick

20 Ask Father Nick (Θεοτοκος)

21 Ask Father Nick

22 Thank you to everyone who donated the beautiful flowers and items needed for Pascha! May God bless all of you and your families with good health and may your departed loved one s memory be eternal.

23

24 ST. HARALAMBOS PARISH COUNCIL PRESIDENT S REPORT Dear Parishioners, I would like to thank the two cochairmen Peter Papadopulos, Mike Fakelis, and all the parishioners who volunteered and made the 2013 St. Haralambos Summerfest a success. Unfortunately due to the weather and activities scheduled for downtown Canton that weekend, the attendance and profit was down from last year. The final numbers will be published in a future Koinonia. We are looking at changing the weekend for next year s Summerfest. A big thank you to the Knossos Chapter (Canton) of the Pancretan Association for donating the new floor cleaner to St. Haralambos. In the past, they have also donated two waterproof/fireproof file cabinets, a granite bench in the Agape courtyard, and a $5,000 donation to start the church bookstore. I thank them for all their generous support to our church. The stewardship committee will be working on collecting outstanding pledge cards for The returned pledge cards total 401. Please return your 2013 pledge cards if you have not already done so. Also, please contact the church office with your address if you would like to be on the church list. I would like to congratulate our high school and college graduates and wish them success with their future plans. I hope you will keep St. Haralambos in your thoughts, wherever your careers and education take you. Please remember we still have the Founders 5K Walk/Fun Run scheduled for Saturday, July 13, Anyone wishing to walk, run, or volunteer, please contact Alex in the church office. The deadline for submitting an ad in the 100 th Anniversary Album has been extended. Please consider placing an ad for yourself, your family, or your business. Please contact Stephanie in the church office for help in placing your ad. I hope everyone has a safe and happy summer. Thank you and God bless, William Skendelas Parish Council President 24 Koinonia July & August 2013

25 St. Haralambos Church Parish Council Meeting Minutes Summary APRIL 25, 2013 TREASURER S REPORT Income: General Account (First Merit)... $17, Preservation Fund (First Merit).. $125, Morgan Stanley-Preservation (as of March 31 st, 2013).. $59, Renovation Fund (First Merit). $4, Krassas Event Center (First Merit).. $18, Morgan Stanley (as of Feb.28th, 2013) $28, th Anniversary... $43, Theotokos Scholoarship Fund (as of Feb.28th, 2013), $31, Total of all cash accounts $328, Expenses: Weekly bills $3, Total expenses - $3, Net $325, MAY 15, 2013 TREASURER S REPORT Income: General Account (First Merit) $17, Preservation Fund (First Merit).. $130, Morgan Stanley-Preservation (As of March 31 st, 2013).. $59, Renovation Fund (First Merit), $4, Krassas Event Center (First Merit) $19, Morgan Stanley (as of Feb.28th, 2013) $28, th Anniversary.. $43, Theotokos Scholarship Fund (as of Feb.28th, 2013).. $31, Total of all cash accounts $334, Expenses: Weekly bills $25, Total expenses - $25, Net $309, Koinonia july & August

26 Philoptochos St. Haralambos Ladies Philoptochos Society On behalf of our Philoptochos board and members, I want to take this opportunity to thank Mary Griveas for her service, knowledge, friendship and her continued dedication as our President for the last two years. Mary has been an inspiration to all of us. She is the driving force to continue our Mission of Philoptochos to help those in need. She takes on every task with kindness and dedication. Thank you for all you do for Philoptochos and our beloved St. Haralambos. I appreciate the honor and privilege of having been elected Philoptochos President for the coming term. I look forward working with all of you and appreciate your ongoing dedication, commitment, support, guidance and friendship. To those who are not yet part of Philoptochos, please join us. Together we can continue to build on the foundation of good works that defines Philoptochos both nationally and locally. Remember.Together we can do great things! I would like to recognize the Officers and Board who will be serving with me. LADIES PHILOPTOCHOS OFFICERS President Mary Trifelos Corresponding Sec. Ann Simatacolos 1 st Vice President Fran Armatas Treasurer Helen Apostalides 2 nd Vice President Sophie Usner Assist. Treasurer Kathy Dieringer Recording Secretary Stephanie Withers Chairman of the Board Mary Griveas Rena Cotopolis Katie Darrah Dina Fakelis Niove Fasoulas Theana Koutras LADIES PHILOPTOCHOS BOARD MEMBERS Goldie Manos Mary Manos Paula Papadopulos Dolly Sousaris Chris Ann Stavrianou Carol Trifelos Georgia Trikkas Rita Trikkas Stella Vallos Tina Fasoulas-Wey LADIES PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY MEETING SCHEDULE All meetings will be held at St. Haralambos Tri-Room at 6:30 PM Tuesday, September 3, 2013 January 2014 Officers & Board only Monday, October 7, 2013 Monday, February 3, 2014 Monday, November 4, 2013 Monday, March 3, 2014 December - no meeting Monday, April 7, 2014 Christmas Party date to be determined Monday, May 5, 2014 Mother Day Dinner - no meeting Again, I want to thank all the members of Philoptochos and I look forward to working with all of you in advancing the goals of Philoptochos. Respectfully in His Name, Mary Trifelos President, St. Haralambos Ladies Philoptochos Society 26 Koinonia July & August 2013

27 A FATHER S DAY TRIBUTE A GRACIOUS THANK YOU! To all of our parishioners who supported the St. Haralambos Philoptochos Father s Day Project! On Father s Day, Sunday, June 16th, a Memorial Service and an Artoclasia Service was held in honor of all our loved ones. We thank Father Nick for reading all of the following names and Mary Griveas for baking the 5 loaves for the Artoclasia! IN MEMORY OF Fr. Leonidas Athamakos Fr. Chrysogonos Lavriotes Fr. Gregory Pantazones Fr. John Petropoulos Fr. John Heliopoulos Fr. Timothy Pantelakos Fr. Theophilos P. Theophilos Fr. Nicholas Paleologou Fr. Michael A. Makridis Fr. Anthony Spirtos John S. Anderson Pete Apostalides Sam Pete Apostalides Andy Armatas John Armatas Paul Armatas Charles L. Babcock James Bumes Alkis Christ Nicola Christou Nicholas Cotsakos George Curley Nick Demos Steve Demos Arthur DeStephen Edward DeStephen Tony DeStephen Christ Diamant Lewis Dolmas Nicholas Drakos William N. Eustathios Louis Fakelis Gust James Foradas James Foradas John P. Foradas Lambros Bob Foradas Pete J. Foradas Peter James Foradas Peter M.Foradas Vassilios X. Gamvas Nicholas Geniatakis Peter Gerros George Gianakis George Goglos James X. Griveas Carl Grunau George Halkias Gust Horaitis Ted Ifantiedes IN MEMORY OF Michael Kakoules, Sr. Petros Kakoules Anthony Kallos Kostas Karavas Steve Kavourias William Kekalos John C. Kellami Steve Kostas Tom Koufos George Koutras John Koutras Nikolaos Kreareas Sam Kreareas Harry G. Laggeris John Lambrou Panagiotis Lemos George Liolios Joseph Manolas John G. Manos Michael Manos Konstantinos Maragakes Andoni Marinakis Anthony J. Marinos James A. Marinos Alex Mazarakas Phillip Michalos Spyro Michalos George Morakis Mike Morakis Theodore Morakis Steve Najda Harry N. Orphan Nicholas H. Orphan John Panagopoulos James Panos Leonard Panos William Panos Peter Panterlis George Papacostas Peter Papadopulos Sheriff George Papadopulos Peter Pappakostas John Pappas Sam Pappas Sam Parker Steve Pirovolos Nick Poulos Athanasios Prokopios IN MEMORY OF Alexios Sakellariou George Sassos Philip Sassos John Simatacolos James Simitacolos Konstantino Sitara John Skendelas George Sousaris Michael Sousaris Frank Spilios John Stavrakis Paul Stavrianou Steve Stavrianou Gaillard Tank D. George Trifelos Harry Trifelos Petros Trikkas Michael J.Tsangeos Tony Tsangeos Konstantinos Tsarwhas Fred Uhlmann John Vallos Harry Vallos Haralambos (Harry) Vourlis Tom Vretas William G. Withers, Jr. Gust Xides Peter G. Xides Gus N. Zenallis MAY THEIR MEMORY BE ETERNAL! IN HONOR OF Fr. Nicholas V. Gamvas Fr. Michael Pastrikos Fr. James Dokos Fr. Nicholas C. Manikas Fr. Eusebius Papastephanou Fr. Leon Pachis Fr. Constantine Shiepis Fr. Daniel Rogich Fr. Yianni Verginis Fr. Basil Shaheen Bruce Abraham James Abraham Steven Abraham John J. Anderson Michael G. Apostalides Peter J. Apostalides Jim Begam Angelo Bozeka Gary A. Burris George Carpenter Athanasios Conrad Ron R. Darrah George David Albert DeStephen Rudy DeStephen Tony DeStephen Steven Diamant James Dieringer Ed Dragar John Ergazos, Jr. John Ergazos, Sr. John Fakelis George James Foradas John Foradas Marcello Frustaci Minos Geniatakis Peter Geniatakis James Griveas Xenophon Griveas Frank Hill Michael Kakoules Peter Kakoules Emanuel Kallos Mike Karipides David Karpinski George Kreareas John Lambrou Nick Lambrou James Langos Michael Lazoran Steve Lemos Triantafilos Likouris Vasili Likouris IN HONOR OF Chris Macrides George Macrides Mark Macrides Christopher J. Manos George Michalos Peter Michalos Peter Mizeres Michael Nastoff John P. Panagopoulos Mark A. Panagopoulos Paul J. Panagopoulos Sotirios Panopoulos Peter G. Papadopulos Scott Paradis Jim Parker Costas Paxos Mike Paxos Mike N. Paxos Nikolaos Paxos Pete Paxos Dean (Gus) Pirovolos Bill Poulos, Jr. Sonny Poulos Nicholas A. Ramphos Alex Shaheen Bill Skendelas Joseph Sousaris Nick Spanakis Bill Stavrianou Paul Stavrianou Philip Stavrianou Chris Stavropoulos Dallas Stephen Sean Stephen Dan Trifelos George H. Trifelos Steve Trifelos George P. Trikkas John M. Tsangeos Dean G. Tsarwhas George Tsarwhas Dennis Tzouloufis Takis Tzouloufis Edward A. Valasky Chris H. Vallos James C. Vallos Hristoforo Valsamidis Peter Volas William G. Withers III James G. Xides Cyrus Yaghooti Awni Zawahri Alex Zenallis Koinonia July & August

28 St. Haralambos Church SUNDAY SCHOOL The following awards were presented on May 19, Sunday School Recognition Sunday FIFTH GRADE STUDENTS received an Orthodox Study Bible. They are as follows: Anna Darrah, Derek Manos, Alex Regas, Jacob Shankel, Anna Spilios HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES were presented with a graduation certificate and Holy Week book. Natalia Kellamis, Arianna Likouris, Alexandros Spyrou, Stefanos Spyrou MYRRH BEARERS who participated at Good Friday Services were recognized as follows: Lia Bench, Anna Darrah, Aliki Kantzos, Sophia Kreareas, Alexa Nastoff, Anna Spilios MERIT AWARDS are based on teacher recommendations, which include regular attendance, class participation, and class conduct. Students who received merit awards are as follows: First Year Award: Tasho Abel Emmanuel Colon Elena Norris Luke Sarris Arianna Tsenekos Abbey Turner Third Year Award: Derek Manos Dean Sarris Anna Spilios Fifth Year Award: Alex Regas Samantha Foradis Eleni Volas Seventh Year Award: Maria Vonortas Ninth Year Award: Nicole Tank Eleventh Year Award: Arianna Likouris Second Year Award: Jorge Tsenekos Kylie Tsenekos Lia Bench Aliki Kantzos Sophia Kreareas Alexa Nastoff Brooke Pope Ariana Vallos Yanni Volas Fourth Year Award: Anna Darrah Jonathan Machamer Anthony Delis-Parker Sixth Year Award: Casey Likouris Michael Pirovolos Eighth Year Award: Emily DiDonato Tenth Year Award: Christian Kellam Natalia Kellamis 28 Koinonia July & August 2013

29 St. Haralambos Church Sunday School EXCELLENT ATTENDENCE AWARDS The following students had excellent attendance throughout the year. They received a certificate and a 100th Anniversary commemorative Saint Haralambos Diptych. 2-3 year olds: Pre-Kindergarten: None Panagiota Tzouloufis Viktor Yagello Kindergarten: None 1 ST /2 ND Grade: Erin Foradis 3 rd /4 th Grade: Kenna Loukas Lia Bench Anthony Morgan Alexa Nastoff Kostas Paxos Ariana Vallos Minas Paxos Yanni Volas Kosta Volas Zoe Yatras 7 th /8 th /9 th Grade: 5 th /6 th Grade: Alexander DiDonato Anna Darrah Samanthan Foradis Jonathan Machamer Katherine Hill Anthony Delis-Parker Casandra Likouris Derek Manos Michael Pirovolos Alex Regas Alexandria Tsenekos Anna Spilios Jorge Tsenekos Kylie Tsenekos Eleni Volas Anastasia Vonortas High School Maria Vonortas Christian Kellamis Nicole Tank Emily DiDonato Natalia Kellamis Arianna Likouris At the conclusion of the ceremony, the teachers presented each of their students with a promotion certificate and special 100 th Anniversary commemorative Saint Haralambos bookmark. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL! Parents, if your child s name is on any of the above lists and you were not in church on May 19th, please see us in the Sunday School office. Also, if any students names were inadvertently omitted from this article, please accept our apology. On behalf of our teachers and staff we thank you for your continued support of our program and look forward to another successful year beginning in September. Have a safe, fun, restful summer and God bless. Respectfully in His Name, Mary Griveas, Director Koinonia July & August

30 On Thursday, May 16, 2013 the senior dance group held elections. We want to wish the newly elected officers a successful year with their new responsibilities: Dawna Natale Billy Poulos Alexandros Spyrou Stefanos Spyrou President Vice President Treasurer Secretary The St. Haralambos Hellenic Dancers will be performing at Assumption Church in Erie, PA for Panagyri Erie on Friday, July, 12, They will also be dancing at St. Demetrios Festival in Warren, Ohio on July 27, Break a Leg!!! To access a complete listing of upcoming events for the dance group and to view pictures from this year s Summerfest please visit our website at: Details for registration and practices will be posted in the September/August edition of the Koinonia. We wish the entire community of St. Haralambos a Fun & Safe Summer. 30 Koinonia July & August 2013

31 GREEK SUMMERFEST NEWS! Dear Parishioners and Friends, THANK YOU! With genuine gratitude deep within our hearts please accept our warmest thank you for your help at our Greek Summerfest. We will always be thankful for having a volunteer like you! Thank you so much for your enthusiasm and genuine dedication. Volunteers like you are the back-bone of our church. You are constantly ready and willing to contribute your own personal time, talents, as well as your energy for festival week, and many months prior, just to help make our Greek Summerfest a success! Your help does not go unnoticed! Also, our gratitude goes out to all of you who have donated the items needed to run your food booths, the dining room, entertainment, those who have given generous monetary donations, and those who have supported our Summerfest by making many purchases and still continue to do so! Speaking of entertainment, we thank the Hellenic Dancers who spend many months practicing for all to enjoy at the Summerfest. Thank you to the many chairmen for the planning, purchasing, and everything else you did to assist in our success! How did the Summerfest do financially? Monies are still being donated, food and pastries are still being purchased, and of course.the bills are still coming in. Once everything is finalized, a report will be printed in a future Koinonia. Believe us as we let you know, we feel very blessed to have you. Thank you! Please continue your generosity to St. Haralambos Church we are all in this together, and it shows, year after year. May God bless all of you! With warmest regards and much gratitude, Peter Papadopulos Mike Fakelis Summerfest Co-Chairmen Announcement! LOOK FOR A NEW GREEK SUMMERFEST COMING NEXT YEAR! JUNE 4-7, 2014! Yes, you have requested new ideas and improvements and we have taken your requests seriously! We have enjoyed, and had been successful with 30 years of our Greek Summerfest! But now we are going to re-invent the 31st Greek Summerfest with a fresh new look! THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE FRESH NEW IDEAS, THE ENTHUSIASM TO HELP, AND WHO ARE POSITIVE, WE INVITE YOU TO A SUMMERFEST WORKSHOP IN SEPTEMBER 2013! THE EXACT DATE AND TIME WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN FUTURE BULLETINS. OPA! Koinonia July & August

32 2013 SUMMERFEST MEMORIES! THANK YOU EVERYONE! 32 Koinonia July & August 2013

33 2013 SUMMERFEST Koinonia July & August

34 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH COMMUNITY NEWS BIRTH Congratulations! MARY ELIZABETH DOVER was born on May 29, Proud parents are Mike and Laura (Imely) Dover. BAPTISM Na Sas Zhsi! LUKAS MARION WORTHINGTON, son of Todd and Erin (Loukas) Worthington, was baptized on June 15, His Godmother is Michelle Onest Cooley. CHRISMATION Na Sas Zhsi! EDWARD W. HINKEL was chrismated on May 20, His sponsor is Maria Lyras. WEDDING Best Wishes! GEORGANNE CONTOS & ANTHONY BENJAMIN Were married on June 22, Their Koumbara is Sara (Ungashick) Brown. FUNERALS Funerals were held at our church for the following loved ones. Our sincerest condolences to their families. May their memory be eternal! JOHN W. MANOS May 15, 2013 CHRISTOPHER P. NOUSSIAS May 30, 2013 MARY (ZANTAL) KARVEL of Alliance, Ohio a long time member of St. Haralambos Church, passed away on June 25, May her memory be eternal! IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR SON DIMITRI, Months and years come and go, ut your loss from Earth has become harder and harder. You loved St. Haralambos so much and looked forward to Summerfest time. We have great memories of you, especially watching you growing from a little boy to a great young man with pride. Your birthday is coming up soon son, we miss you very, very much. God bless your soul son, we will always remember you and love you, Mama & Dad THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! To Maria Bourlas, President, and Members of the Pan Cretan Knossos Chapter, We want to thank all of you for your very generous monetary donation to purchase a motorized floor scrubber for St. Haralambos Church. Your continued generosity and thoughtfulness to our church is most graciously appreciated by all. May God bestow an abundance of blessings to all of you and your families! Thank you so much for the beautiful books you donated to the Madge Youtz Library. Our students have already checked many of the books out! They commented on how much they loved the stories. Thanks for all you do for our students. Sincerely, Madge Youtz School I would like to thank Father Nick and his daughter for their numerous visits during my recent hospital stay as well as all those who telephoned, sent get well cards, and visited me. Your many expressions of caring and support were the best medicine and deeply appreciated. Thank you and God bless. Irene Gianakis I want to thank everyone for their cards, flowers, prayers, and phone calls during the passing of my dear husband, and a wonderful father and grandfather, John Manos. I especially want to thank Fr. Nick and Fr. Dan for their support when I needed them. I thank each one of you from the bottom of my heart for your warmth and generosity. Love, Susie and Family 34 Koinonia July & August 2013

35 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH COMMUNITY NEWS ICON, GIFT & BOOKSTORE SUMMER HOURS OPEN WEDNESDAYS 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. SUNDAYS After Church BY APPOINTMENT WEDNESDAY VOLUNTEERS Diane Foradas July 3 & August 7 Sophie Usner July 10 & August 14 Flora Anderson July 17 & August 21 Dolly Sousaris July 24 & August % of our proceeds benefit St. Haralambos Church CONGRATULATIONS MARY! MARY FELTZ was recently honored as a member of the 2013 All-County Teaching Team! Mary teaches Special Education in Sandy Valley School District. We all congratulate you Mary on this highly deserved award! ALTAR BOYS SUMMER SCHEDULE The Altar Boys Assignments for the months of July and August will be OPEN to ALL Altar Boys. Now is also the time for ANY young man, ages 8 and up, interested in becoming an Altar Boy to try it out. This is a very rewarding and spiritually enriching experience for all young men that they will cherish their whole life. Please feel free to contact Father Nick. Congratulations to LINDA NATALE who recently retired! Linda was an Intervention Specialist employed by Plain Local Schools for 35 years. Working at GlenOak High School with ninth and tenth graders, she taught English, Algebra 1, Geometry, and Reading in the small group setting and worked in the inclusion setting in Science and History. While looking forward to retirement I have to admit that it is quite bittersweet. I will miss the daily interaction with my students. Because I worked so closely with them and saw them so much though out the course of the school day, they really became like family. Although retiring from employment, Linda hasn t retired from volunteering at our church. She is a Sunday School teacher for the 3rd & 4th grade class, a Goya Volleyball Coach, and a very active parent for both Goya and the Hellenic Dancers. She will also continue being a Pampered Chef consultant and pursue other projects. HAPPY RETIREMENT LINDA! Congratulations Linda! May God bless you with many years of happinessand good health in your retirement! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY DAN & CAROL! Happy anniversary to DAN & CAROL TRIFELOS celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary! To honor Dan and Carol, a Coffee Hour, hosted by their family will be held on SUNDAY, AUGUST 11th. Wishing both of you many blessings of continued happiness and good health! Koinonia July & August

36 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH 2013 GRADUATES CONGRATULATIONS! Congratulations to all of our High School and College graduates! We pray for an abundance of God s blessings for a successful and healthy future! Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3;-56 SCHOLARSHIPS Congratulations to all of the following recipients on their much deserved awards! \ AHEPA CHAPTER #59 - $1,000 each Natalia Kellamis, Alexandros Spyrou, Stefanos Spyrou, Michael Tank DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE, Chloris #40 - $1,000 Arianna Likouris Congratulations! JORDAN NICOLE DOLPH GLENOAK HIGH SCHOOL Jordan graduated from GlenOak High School with a Fine Arts Specialization. She has Academic Letters in Speech and Debate, Honor Bar Thespian, and was the Director of GlenOak High School's first ever Madrigal Feaste in which Jordan was able to get sponsorship from The Mercy Medical Center. The Board of Education felt that the production was such a success that it is now an annual event for the community. Jordan has received the Rocket Scholarship for the University of Toledo and will Double Major in Accounting and Business Management. Jordan is the daughter of Joseph and Margaret Dolph. HANNAH MARIE ENGLISH McKINLEY SENIOR HIGH Hannah graduated from McKinley Senior High School and plans on attending Stark State College to become a Social Worker. Hannah is the daughter of Teppie Kovach and Mike English. 36 Koinonia July & August 2013

37 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH 2013 GRADUATES THEODORE NICHOLAS KANTZOS HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL Theodore graduated from Hoover High School and plans on attending Stark State College in the fall to study Business. Theodore is the son of Nectarios and Janelle Kantzos. KATHERINE ELIZABETH KARPINSKI HUDSON HIGH SCHOOL Katie graduated from Hudson High School with honors. While at Hudson she played in the concert and marching bands all four years, lettering twice and receiving a Squad Leader Award and a member of the choir for two years. She was one of ten chosen from a field of one hundred applicants to attend a faith based leadership program in Atkinson, Kansas. She taught Sunday School for four years and has many hours of volunteer time in her community. Katie recently returned from a week in Appalachia as a part of a school related service project. She loves to sing, play the piano and flute, read and cook. She plans to major in English at Cleveland State University where she has received the Freshman Scholarship Award and the Freshman Resident Scholarship Award. Katie is the daughter of Joanna and David Karpinski and the granddaughter of Dan and Carol Trifelos. NATALIA MARIE KELLAMIS GLENOAK HIGH SCHOOL Natalia graduated from GlenOak High School and plans on attending Miami University (Oxford) to pursue a Science Education degree. Natalia is the daughter of John and Christine Kellamis, and the granddaughter of Chris and Elbus Kellamis, and Joseph and Mary DiStefano. Koinonia July & August

38

39 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH 2013 GRADUATES ALEXANDROS LAMBROS SPYROU GLENOAK HIGH SCHOOL Alexandros graduated from GlenOak High School and plans on attending the University of Akron majoring in Chemical Engineering. Alexandros is the son of Panagiotis and Frantzeska Spyrou. STEFANOS SPYROU GLENOAK HIGH SCHOOL Stefanos graduated from GlenOak High School and plans on attending the University of Akron majoring in Chemical Engineering. Stefanos is the son of Panagiotis and Frantzeska Spyrou. CIERRA JEWEL WAGGONER LAKE HIGH SCHOOL Cierra graduated from Lake High School in Hartville. She will attend Kent State Fashion Design School. Cierra is the daughter of Cedric Joel and Stephanie Waggoner, and granddaughter of Bill and Elaine Bacopoulos. Koinonia July & August

40 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH 2013 GRADUATES STEPHAN J. ANDERSON KENT STATE UNIVERSITY STARK Stephan graduated with Honors from Kent State University Stark, Justice Department. His future plans are to be an Officer of the Law. Stephan is the son of John and Emily Anderson, and the grandson of Flora Anderson and the late, John S. Anderson. MICHAEL CALANDROS THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON Michael graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of Akron with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. He received the following honors: Presidential Scholar and University Scholar. Michael is currently employed by Zimmer, Inc. Michael is the son of Louis and Maria Calandros. COLONEL ANTHONY DiGIACOMO US ARMY WAR COLLEGE Colonel Anthony DiGiacomo graduated June 8, 2013 with a Masters in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College in Carlisle, Pa. It was a privilege to be chosen to attend the Army s most senior military educational institution. Tony was the first Ohio Army National Guard officer to be selected to study at the USAWC in 15 years. Colonel DiGiacomo is currently the Commander of the Army Flight Facility in North Canton, Ohio and the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence for the State of Ohio. Anthony is the husband of Maria Horaitis DiGiacomo and their daughters are Aristea and Marissa DiGiacomo. Koinonia 40 July & August 2010 Koinonia July & August 2013

41 ST. HARALAMBOS CHURCH 2013 GRADUATES PAULA GIAVASIS WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Paula graduated from Western State University in Gunnison, Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. Paula is the daughter of Cynthia Giavasis and the granddaughter of Paula Macris. MICHAEL J. LIOSSIS Michael graduated from Stark Technical College with a degree in Graphic Arts Design, May He plans to start is own business. Michael is the husband of Maria Liossis and son-in-law of Mike & Karen Lazoran. Son of Mike P. Liossis and Amy Liossis. Grandson of Mike and Maryann Liossis. College Congratulations! TIFFANY M. MANOS MALONE UNIVERSITY Tiffany graduated from Malone University with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing Management. Tiffany is the wife of Christopher Manos and their son is Derek Manos. BILLY POULOS III THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON Billy graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelors of Business Administration degree. He double majored in Sales Management and Marketing Management. Billy was named to the Dean s List each of his last two semesters at the university, as well as four other semesters. Throughout his collegiate education, Billy was involved in numerous activities and extracurricular activities including being an active member of the St. Haralambos Hellenic Dancers, President of the William McKinley Chapter of the Sons of Pericles in Canton, and Head GOYA Basketball Coach of the girls team at St. Haralambos Church. Billy is the son of Bill Jr. and Antonietta Poulos. Koinonia July & August

42 May J.O.Y. Meeting Junior Orthodox Youth Mini Golf at Sluggers & Putters SQUEAKY S NOTES: Yanni Sotiropoulos got a hole-in-one. Way to go Yanni!! Squeaky the mouse 42 Koinonia July & August 2013

43 TRU LOV CAR Junior Orthodox Youth August J.O.Y. Kick-off event Sunday, August 18th Field Day at Church 2pm - 4pm Activities include: Sack Race, Donut Contest, Bucket Toss, Balloon Race...and more Volunteers are needed. Please contact a J.O.Y. advisor if you can help. A NIGHT IN NASHVILLE Sponsored by St. Haralambos G.O.Y.A. With Country Singer Jon King SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, :00-11:00 pm Alex D. Krassas Event Center Save the Date! Koinonia July & August

44 BUS TRIP TO ORTHODOX MONASTERY OF THE TRANSFIGURATION Ellwood City, Pennsylvania Tuesday, September 24, 2013 Depart 9 AM, Return approx.. 5 PM St. Haralambos Parking Lot Monastery for women under the Jurisdiction of the Orthodox Church in America. Founded in Chapel, Dining Room, Gift Shop, Bookstore, 100 acres of solitude. COST: $25 Includes bus, tip, lunch Checks payable to: Senior Citizens Reservation Deadline: SEPTEMBER 10th Call Kathy Dieringer Sponsored by: Silver Liners and Philoptochos Society COMMUNITY SERVICE ITEMS NEEDED PLEASE! The St. Haralambos High School Sunday School Class will be collecting for Community Projects throughout the school year. You may drop off your items at the High School Class. Thank you for helping us to help others! YOUR PAST GENEROSITY HAS BEEN EXTREMELY APPRECIATED! Questions, please contact Karen Lazoran. EXAMPLE OF ITEMS COLLECTED: SCHOOL SUPPLIES Notebooks, tissues, pencils, markers, rulers, notebook paper, crayons, etc. TRAVEL SIZE TOILETRIES Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, mouthwash, tissues, etc. Summer Stewardship Give generously to Him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. Deuteronomy 15:10 Please remember your Generous Donations to Fair Share this Summer. Thank You! 44 Koinonia July & August 2013

45 100th Anniversary Album Q & A Is it too late to submit an ad for the album? Because of the vast importance of this album, THERE IS NOT A DEFINITE DEADLINE at this time. This is still our 100th year and still have upcoming 100th Anniversary events to include in this album. BUT, when we do announce the deadline, it will be... the FINAL deadline, and it may be soon! Please do not wait until the final deadline is announced. NOW is the time to turn it in. When can I bring in my ad? You can call for an appointment if you need help with your ad, your pictures and ads to Stephanie@stharalambos.com, or simply drop it off at the church office. When will my ad be finished? We will be working on ads this summer. As we progress WE WILL CALL YOU to come in to proof your final ad copy and pick up the pictures you provided. When will the album be printed? The album will be printed after everyone has had the opportunity to proof their ad, and our committee has finished with all proofing and editing from the first page to the very last. How much will the album cost? The album is included for those who have completed and paid for an ad sized quarter, half, full, or tribute. To save money, you may as well place an ad and receive a complimentary one or else you will have to purchase the album. After we have counted how many pages there are, a price will be determined and an order form will be available to order as many copies as you would like. Do you still need any type of church pictures? Yes, if you have any pictures from the past of any of our organizations such as Priests, Sunday School, Goya, Men s Club, Parish Council, etc., we will be glad to take a look at them and may include them in the album. Come on now, get that old dusty box out and have a good time reminiscing! Do you want any Greek owned business pictures? Yes! We are doing a few pages of pictures of Greek owned businesses still in operation today and also from the past. Are you still accepting business ads also? Yes! Please help us! Contracts are available in the church lobby on the information wall display. Do you have more questions? Please call the church office, , #0. We truly thank you for your patience, support, and enthusiasm for this important keepsake! Koinonia July & August

46 ENJOY Fun Fellowship, Refreshments, Delicious Buffet Dinner, and the 2013 Coaches Panel! Kick Off the Football Season with us at the 2013 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACHES PREVIEW! THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2013 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Social Hour Dinner Coaches Panel For tickets and more information CONTACT STEVE DIAMANT at Sponsored by the St. Haralambos Men s Club 5:30 pm 6:30 pm 7:30 pm Some of Our Missed Parishioners Below is a list of some of our members of our church family who are not able to attend. Thoughtful visits and cards are always welcome! Thank you and may God bless all of you! CANTON REGENCY nd St. NW Canton, OH PH: ANGELO BOZEKAS HOUSE OF LORETTO 2812 Harvard Ave. NW Canton, OH PH: JOHN HADJIAN INN AT BELDEN VILLAGE th St. NW Canton, OH PH: HELEN DIAMANT LAURELS OF MASSILLON 2000 Sherman Circle NE Massillon, OH PH: SOTIRIOS PANOPOULOS MANOR CARE HEALTH SERV Higbee Ave. NW Canton, OH PH: GENEVIEVE HONDRAKIS NICK MALOUDIS STONE CROSSING th St. NW Canton, OH PH: GUS CHUCHANIS ANN COOBATIS SONNY POULOS NICHOLET VAITSIS ST. LUKE LUTHERAN COMM. 220 Applegrove St. NE North Canton, OH PH: ANNA ECONOMOU PH: NENA KOUNOUZVELIS PH: ROMALUE LANGOS SAM MANOS ADAM SOUSARIS STELLA SOUSARIS HARRIET TRIKILAS WATERFORD AT ST. LUKE 201 Holl Rd. NE, #220 North Canton, OH PH: IRENE LAGGERIS 46 Koinonia July & August 2013

47 JULY BIRTHDAYS St. Haralambos Church AUGUST BIRTHDAYS 1 Christina Covert 2 Alexa Marinos Thomas Papacostas Phaidra Sotiropoulos John Stamaelopoulos 3 William J. Manos 4 Andrea Bozeka Edward Hinkel 5 Brenda Georgiades 6 Andrew Giavasis 7 Helen Christ George Demis Anna Kosmides 8 Aliki Kantzos 9 Maria Calandros Francine Chuchanis Christopher Kreareas 10 Dena Bahas Nicholas Hallaman 11 Louis Tsenekos 12 Randa Farah 13 Peter Kakoules Theodore Morakis Christina Vretas 14 Sandy Bozeka Constantin Farah Nicholas Lambrou 15 Revecca Abel Robert Gruber Alex Krassas 16 Anthony Bozeka Elizabeth Conrad Sophia Kreareas 17 Gina Frangias Gia Markella Frustaci Lora Goutras 18 Carol Siminges Stephanie Withers 19 Marcello Frustaci Harry Klide Nicholas Tsenekos 20 Maria Gamvas Sophia Klide Matthew Machamer Kevin Oblisk Peter Papadopulos Takis Tzouloufis 22 Dimitra Koehler Annette Pappas Amy Zenallis 23 Dean Christ Stephanie Kovach Brittany Paxos Effie Vallos 24 Kathleen Giavasis 25 Steve G. Bozeka Lula Contos 26 Christina Armatas Frank Hill John Loukas Arden Nixdorf Cleo Vlahos 27 Paul Graf Vicky Sakellariou Dan Trifelos 28 Jordan Dolph Stephanie Sakel 29 Denise Armatas Maria Smith Barbara Sotiropoulos 30 Joanne Nicholas 31 Pete Kouris Marietta Kragalott Nancy Nicolados Linda Paxos George Plesko George Tzouloufis! M A N Y Y E A R S! 1 Anastasia Coobatis John Machamer Luke Morgan 2 Steven Diamant Irene Karavas Landon Panagopoulos Nicholet Vaitsis 3 Nikki Abel Theodora Stavrakis 4 Nick Karalis 5 James Cotopolis Ethan Nixdorf Carolyn Varlamos 6 Suzanne Bourlas Brian Conklin Matthew Falasco Angela Giavasis 7 Georganne Contos Katholiki Kalos Efsevia Kandis Bill Poulos Jr. 8 Marcia Kaplanis Sophia Paxos Elias Politis Panagiota Tzouloufis 9 Tyler Conklin Cynthia Loukas Stella Vallos 10 Anthony Morgan Nicholas Regas 11 Allison Sarris David Sirgo 12 James Langos Joseph Orlando Stephen Pirovolos 13 Jonathan Dieringer Tasos Kalantzis Chris Kyriakedes Patricia Yelichek Zack Zelmer 14 Matthew Carona Nicole Gaitanos Jonathan Georgiades Gus Kallas 15 Roneo Apostalides Lambros P. Paxos 16 Milan Kragalott Sophia Orphan 17 Steffani Arrigo Sophia Effantis Juliana Kreareas John Sakellariou Tina Wey 18 Tiffany Manolakis Poppy Pateras 19 Erini Foradis John Schrader Anna Spilios Kyoss Williams 20 Marissa DiGiacomo Pamela Gaitanos Sophie Usner 21 Cassandra Ireate Philip L. Giavasis Leah Michalos Mary Sue Spilios 22 Louis Eustathios Roula Kallos Brittany Zoumberakis 23 Peggy Hatzakis Isabella Koukoutas 24 Jimmy Arrigo Linda Millis 25 Elaina Norris 26 Peggy Blythe Angeline Geniatakis Ariana Parker John Poulos 27 Xenophon Griveas John Kellamis Constance Ray Nancy Xides 29 Mary Feltz Earl Ingold Gavin Panagopoulos 31 Brian Norris

48 St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church th Street N.W. Canton, OH Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Canton, Ohio Permit No Welcome! THE DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS (Virgin Mary) August 15 THE ICON THE THEOTOKOS (Virgin Mary) Depicted upon her funeral bier. CHRIST Standing behind the Theotokos is her Son, Who has come to receive His Mother s soul into heaven; He holds in His left arm an infant in white, symbolizing the soul of the Theotokos, Christ also is robed in white and appears in an aureole depicting the Light of His Divinity. THE APOSTLES On either side of the bier stand the Apostles; the group on the left is led by Saint Peter who stands at the head of the bier; the group on the right is led by Saint Paul who stands at the foot of the bier. ANTONINUS THE JEW Below the bir is a figure of Antoninus the Jew. Being an impious man he tried to discredit the new Christian community by disrupting the burial of the Theotokos. When he attempted to overturn the bier and thus dishonor the Theotokos, an Archangel (shown in the lower right corner) severed his hands to stop his disgrace. Antoninus later repented of his sins and embraced Christianity through Baptism.