VOICE THE. Wishing all of you a blessed Holy Week and a Glorious Pascha! THE VOICE APRIL Volume No Hymn of Note

Transcript

1 THE VOICE THE VOICE APRIL Volume No.0272 TABLE OF CONTENTS Father s Article... 1 Stewardship... 3 Choir News... 4 Philoptochos... 5,6 Sunday School PTA News... 9 March in Pictures... 10,11 Cherubs Parish Registry Parish Announcements Κοινοτικά Νέα Liturgical Schedule... 15,17 Kentro News Community Events... 16, 17 ST. SPYRIDON HELLENIC ORTHODOX CHURCH S. RIDGELAND AVE. PALOS HEIGHTS, IL WWW. SAINT- SPYRIDON.ORG Hymn of Note On the night of the Resurrection, shortly before midnight, all the lights of the church will be turned off. All but one of the vigil lamps will be blown out, and the church with all the faithful will be covered in darkness. Then, just before the light of the resurrection dawns to light the adorned paschal candles, the chanters will chant a hymn that fittingly speaks of the predawn darkness. This hymn is the 7 th eothinon hymn and our hymn of note for this month. Lo, darkness and early dawn. And why, Mary, are you standing by the grave, your mind full of darkness? Why do you seek where Jesus has been laid? But see the disciples running together, see how they have realised the Resurrection from the grave clothes and the napkin, and have remembered the Scripture concerning this. With whom and through whom we too have believed and sing your praise O Christ, the Giver of Life. In that early dawn of the resurrection, once the obligatory Sabbath rest had passed, Mary Magdalene rushed to the tomb of Christ. In the darkness of the predawn hours, she found the tomb empty. According to the gospel narrative, she went back to the disciples and told them that the body of Jesus was gone and that somehow it was moved. The apostles Wishing all of you a blessed Holy Week and a Glorious Pascha!

2 The Voice - H ΦΩNH Official Monthly Community Publication of St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church S. Ridgeland Avenue Palos Heights, IL REV. FR. TILEMAHOS ALIKAKOS IERATIKOS PROESTAMENOS Church Office Hours:... Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Phone: , 2313 or 0787 Fax: office@saint-spyridon.org Web: Parish Council Officers Taso Panagiotopoulos... President James Korbakes... Vice-President Konstantine Labrakis... Vice President James Xeros... Secretary Frank Kopanis... Assistant Secretary Gus Kolyvas... Treasurer Nicholas Chibucos... Assistant Treasurer Auxiliary Officers Stylianos Bonanos... Chanter Toula Georgiopoulos... Philoptochos Georgia Theoharis... P.T.A. Kiki Kazazakis... Kentro Lambrini Stavrou... Plutarchos Greek School Anna Angelos... Academy Zoe Kopanis... Sunday School Director Nicky Glikis... Choir Director Dana Vasilakos... G.O.Y.A. & Jr. G.O.Y.A. Joanne Spinos... Cherubs Presvytera Georgia... HOPE Fr. Tilemahos... Byzantine Music Panagiotis Mihalopoulos... Iconography Fr. Tilemahos... Bible Study Vicki Drikos... Handmaidens Nick Chibucos... Altar Boys John Angelos... Athletics And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. 2 The Voice Peter and John ran to the tomb and found it empty. The beloved apostle John came to believe that Jesus had risen as soon as he got to the tomb. Peter, on the other hand, went into the tomb, and found the grave clothes and the napkin folded separately. The body was not stolen. Jesus had risen indeed. This detailed reference to the burial napkin is worth further explanation. It was a custom at that time that when sitting at dinner, one would crumble up their napkin and throw it away if they were done with their food. However, if one was just taking a break from eating, they would fold the napkin, signifying that they would return. Therefore, seeing the napkin folded separately, Peter knew not only that Jesus s body was not stolen - for who would bother to unwrap a dead body in an act of burglary under the watch of the Roman guard but that Jesus would return. Mary, however, seeing the empty tomb, she did not assume that Jesus had risen. She still believed that someone had moved the body. Her mind was still in darkness, much like the darkness that enveloped those predawn hours. She rushed to the tomb full of love for Christ, but her grief and the darkness of her mind did not allow her to conclude that the Lord had risen from the dead. All of us will come to the Resurrection service in a few weeks. Having prepared throughout Holy and Great Lent, with prayer, charity, fasting, and confession, having forgiven and having asked forgiveness, we will rush to receive the light amidst the darkness of the pre-resurrection dawn. I hope and pray that we will not stay in darkness but that we will receive the light not just on our Paschal candles, but deeper inside our hearts and minds. This light of the Resurrection, passed down from the disciples, with whom and through whom, we too have believed, will move us all to singing praises to Christ our God with every breath we take. Looking a bit ahead to the eight eothinon gospel, Mary Magdalene, who had a hard time believing in the resurrection, stayed by the empty tomb after Peter and John had left. She stayed and wept. By her staying, she then became the first to see the Risen Lord. I hope and pray, that on the night of the Resurrection, we will all stay, with tears of joy to see not just the empty tomb but to see the Risen Christ Himself. Amen. Fr. Tilemahos

3 STEWARDSHIP 2013 Stewardship 2013 Progress Report As of March 26th, 2013 Pledged Stewards: 187 Average Stewardship: $ Amount of Stewardship donated: $69,800 Stewardship Goal for Stewards STEWARDSHIP 2013 We wish to thank the 187 families who have made their 2013 Stewardship Pledge, and we invite all of you to join in this year s Stewardship theme: Chosen and Appointed by God to Go and Bear Fruit Your Stewardship Commitment is a testimony of your dedication to enhancing your personal spiritual life and spreading our beloved Orthodox Faith. Stewardship Commitment Cards for the year 2013 are available in the church narthex and at We kindly ask that you continue to show your loving support for our Saint Spyridon family through your stewardship commitment. If you have already pledged your stewardship for this year please give a stewardship card to a friend or family member. ΓΙΝΕ ΚΑΛΟΣ ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΟΣ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ ΤΟΥ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΣΠΥΡΙΔΩΝΑ Ευχαριστούμε θερμώς τα 187 μέλη της Ενορίας μας που έχουν ήδη ανανεώσει την συνδρομή τους προς την Εκκλησία μας για το έτος 2013 και παρακαλούμε όπως όλοι συμβάλετε με τη συνδρομήν σας στο ιερό έργο της Εκκλησίας μας. Η υποστήριξη όλων είναι απαραίτητη για το καλό της ενορίας μας. STEWARDS 2013-FEBRUARY 24TH-MARCH 24TH Mr. & Mrs. Dimitrios Alexakos Mrs. Pinelopi Antonopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Nick Argyropoulos Mr.& Mrs. Gus Banakis Mrs. Aspasia Berdusis Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Besbekos Ms. Eleni Bizoukas Mrs. Faye Bizoukas Mr. & Mrs. John Booras Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Georgiopoulos Mr.& Mrs. Andreas Glikis Mr. & Mrs. Amjad Janinah Mr. & Mrs. Panicos Kaloghirou Ms. Sophie Karagiannis Mr. & Mrs. Pantelis Karbaliotis Ms. Georgria Karuntzos Ms. Pat Katsenis Mr. & Mrs. Andreas Kavadas Mr. & Mrs. Peter Kazazakis Mr. James Korbakes Mrs. Demetra Lambros Mr. & Mrs. George Limperis Mr. Harry Marines Mr. & Mrs. George Markopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Dale Morrone Mr. John Mazarakos Mr. & Mrs. Jorge Perez Mr. & Mrs. Tasos Panagiotopoulos Mr. Philip Papamakarios Dr. & Mrs. Amiel Pappas Mr. Andrew Pappas Mr. & Mrs. Alex Perros Mr. Athanasios Perros Mr. Peter Polmen Mrs. Panagiota Poziopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Panayotis Prassas Mr. & Mrs. Kostas Retsinas Ms. Evagelia R. Rogiokos Ms. Rita Sperlakis Mr. & Mrs. Alex Stavropoulos Mr. & Mrs. Athanasios Stavrou Mr.& Mrs. Anestis Tsonis Mr. &Mrs. George Vasilakos Mr. & Mrs. Antonis Vassiliou Ms. Ourania Vassiliou Mr. & Mrs. George Vythoulkas Mr. & Mrs. Panagiotis Yiannopoulos St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 3

4 CHOIR NEWS IT S NOT GOODBYE The St. Spyridon Choir has recently received the news that one of our most beloved songbirds will not be joining us anymore in the choir loft due to health reasons. Ida Trakadas, for over 60 years has been singing the Lord s praises not only with our own choir but choirs throughout our Metropolis and the USA. Ida was the tenth President of the Chicago Metropolis Federation of Church Music Choirs, and attributes her dedication in perpetuating church choirs to her teacher and mentor, Mr. George D. Dimopoulos, Protopsalti and Choir Director of the Sts. Constantine and Helen Church (Chicago/Palos Hills). Mr. Dimopoulos encouraged her and was instrumental in furthering her vocal training. She began her musical training at an early age in piano but soon discovered that her first love was singing. This led her to vocal training. Ida was a member and soloist with the Marshall Field Company Choral Society and performed at Orchestra Hall in Chicago, the Chicago Opera Company, Red Cross Entertainment Group, Hellenic Choral Society and other choral groups. She served as choir director at the St. Spyridon Church (Pullman-Roseland/Palos Heights) and as both interim and assistant choir director at the St. Nicholas Church in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Since its inception, Ida has served the Metropolis Choir Federation as committee worker, board member, secretary and vice-president as well as President. In 1982, with her beloved late husband, Kosta at her side, she organized the pilgrimage to the Holy Lands and Greece where members of our federation made history by singing the Divine Liturgy in the church of the Holy Sepulchre. She also played an active role in the formation of the National Forum of Church Musicians, where she served as publicity coordinator. Ida spent most of her working career as an administrator in the health care services. Currently Ida is enjoying retirement traveling and volunteering for various organizations at St. Spyridon. We wish Ida well and know she will still be humming in the pews with the choir. God Grant You Many Years!!! We thank you for your years of dedication. Love, Your fellow choir members and all the parishiones of St. Spyridon. 4 The Voice

5 PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. (1 Cor. 13:7-8) In these words of St. Paul to the Corinthians we find the essence of the work of Philoptochos. As the ones who love the poor, the ladies of Philoptochos tend to everyone in need by giving them hope and faith that the love of God never fails. In turn, the faithful of our Church have always responded to the philanthropic ministries of Philoptochos through prayer and dedicated commitment. We thank you sincerely for responding to the appeal of the St. Spyridon Philoptochos on behalf of the Nika Alex family. Your act of kindness and generosity demonstrates an abundance of love and noble commitment to philanthropy. The difficult journey of Nika Alex and his family started more than three years ago when he was diagnosed with leukemia. After his bone-marrow transplant, the Philoptochos had extended a helping hand through the St. Spyridon chapter and the Metropolis of Chicago Philanthropy Fund. As the cancer reappeared three months ago and Nika s family was once again in need, we appealed to all the faithful to assist the Philoptochos in taking care of this family. The response has been wonderful and we thank you for your loving support. We kindly ask for your prayers that Nika will recover and will return to his wife and two sons in perfect health. On behalf of Nika s family, please accept our gratitude and our prayers that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ bless you and your family always. With Christian Agape,Mrs. Toula Georgiopoulos, Philoptochos President Assumption Philoptochos St. George Philoptochos St. Spyridon Philoptochos St. Spyridon PTA Anonymous (9) Ms. Georgia Angelopoulos Mr. & Mrs. John Arvanites Mr. & Mrs. Gus Banakis Mrs. Chrisi Bastas Mr. & Mrs.James Berdusis Mr. Tasos Bertsos Mr. & Mrs. Zaharis Bousies Mr. & Mrs. Robert Buhler Mr. & Mrs. C Catsogiannis Mr. James Chiampas Ms. Ruth E Faklis Mr. & Mrs. John Farsatis Mr. Doug Feldt Mr. Todd Flaherty Mr. Aram Fundukian Mr. & Mrs. Peter Garifalis Mr. & Mrs. K. Garinis Ms. Vicky Georgakas Mr. & Mrs. B Georgiopoulos Mr. & Mrs. J Gianakopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Halikas Mr. & Mrs. Wilford Jones Ms. Zafira Jouras Mrs. Bessy Karabis Mr. & Mrs. Ef. Karamihas Mr. & Mrs. Ak. Karampelas Mr. & Mrs. D Karanikolas Ms. Katherine Karoubas Ms. Patricia Katsenis Mr. & Mrs. Chris Katsoulis Mrs. Tasia Kladis Mr. & Mrs. Louis Klioris Ms. Ploumi Kontzias Ms. Kelly Korovessis Mrs. Margarita Kremmydas Mr. & Mrs. G Kyroudis Mr. & Mrs. Labrakis Ms. Panagiota Laggas Mr. Tom Lambiris Mr. & Mrs. D Lichtenberg Mrs. Betty Lillios Metropolitan Nikitas Lulias Mr. & Mrs. Ap Malfas Mr. Samuel Marcum Mr. Tom Martin Mr. and Mrs. D McCloskey Mr. & Mrs. Ted Mikroulis Mr. Paul Mirmingos Nicolas Painting Contract Tomofumi & Madoka Noma Mr. & Mrs. C Panoutsos Mr. & Mrs. Peter Paraskis Mr. & Mrs. Ari Paxinos Mr. & Mrs. Peter Paxinos Mr. & Mrs. Tim Perakis Mr. and Mrs. Alex Perros Pete s Market Mr. & Mrs. Nick Petinatos Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Pipikios Mr. Nicholas Pipikios Mr. Nicholas Pipikios Mr. George Plezia Mr. Peter Polmen Mr. & Mrs. George Poulos Mr. Ioannis Pourdalas Mr. & Mrs. Dan Prezelt Mr. Nick Pyknis Mr. & Mrs. Rob Righetti Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Rojas Ms. Rachel Sosnowy Ms. Eugenia Splinter Mrs. Demitra Stameson Mr. & Mrs. Panag. Stamus Mr. & Mrs. Brian Stewart Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Stojan Mr. & Mrs. George Theoharis Mr. & Mrs. Paul Thiakos Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Mrs. Ida Trakadas Mr. Peter Tsakiris Mrs. Vasiliki Tsonis Mr. & Mrs. G Vythoulkas Mr. John Vlahos Mr. Timothy Woods Mr. Izumi Yoshida St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 5

6 Dear Friends and Parishioners, As we approach the most sacred period of the Great Lent which is Holy Week, we pray that Our Lord s Resurrection give us health, love and humility so that we may continue to work for our Holy Orthodox Church. The ladies of Philoptochos started the Lenten Season with the Kathara Deftera Lenten Dinner that took place after the Compline Service. It was a very spiritual evening and we thank the ladies who helped with the preparations and the serving of the traditional Lenten foods. We urge all of you to donate baked goods like Tsourekia, Greek Bread, Koulourakia, Paximadia and whatever else you may want to donate for this special Bake Sale. Your contribution will bring the revenues that will be given to our brothers and sisters in need. May God bless you all! On April 26th we will host our Annual Lenten Dinner after the Presanctified Liturgy. His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos will preside and we will welcome all the faithful from the many parishes of our Metropolis. On Palm Sunday we will host the traditional Palm Sunday luncheon. We invite all of you to join us. Please make your reservations as soon as possible. On the same day we will also hold our annual Bake Sale of Easter pastries; the proceeds will help the needy in our community. Please don t forget our Annual Mother s Day Luncheon that will take place on May 12, My sincere thanks and appreciation to all of you for your continuous support and your love for philanthropy. Kali Anastasi, Toula Georgiopoulos Philoptochos President PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS Please Join Us for Our 8th Annual Mother s Day Luncheon Hosted by The St. Spyridon Ladies Philoptochos Society Sunday May 12th, 2013 Immediately following the Divine Liturgy Reservations Required Please call the Church Office (708) Adults $20.00 Children $ The Voice HIS EMINENCE METROPOLITAN IAKOVOS AT ST. SPYRIDON, FRIDAY, APRIL 26TH On Friday, April 26th at 6:30 p.m. His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos will officiate at the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts. Following the service, the Philoptochos will be hosting the Lenten Meal. All faithful are invited to attend. Please make every effort to attend this special service.

7 It s hard to believe that we are in the last part of our Sunday School year. On Superbowl Sunday, we held our first chili and cornbread sale. The proceeds went to benefit the iconography project. We also collected cans of food to donate to our food pantry. Last week we distributed bottles to help raise money for Martha & Mary house, which helps women in pregnancy crisis. We ask that all Sunday School families participate to help this worthy cause. Bottles will be collected on April 21 st. The Sunday of Orthodoxy, the first Sunday of Great Lent is always so moving. Seeing all the Sunday School students and staff in a procession, many holding their personal icons. Our Lenten Retreat is scheduled for Saturday April 6 th. Please register your children K-6 th grade. SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWS St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 7

8 PARISH NEWS St. Spyridon s P.T.A. invites the children and families of the parish to worship together at the Saturday of Lazarus Divine Liturgy followed by the Annual Communion Pancake Breakfast After Liturgy, please join us for the Lenten Communion Pancake Breakfast and preparation of the palms for Palm Sunday Worship. This is a wonderful Lenten opportunity to come together as a family to prepare the palms and enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast. Students are encouraged to prepare themselves through prayer, fasting and confession to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Saturday, April 27th Orthros & Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Plutarchos Greek school Sunday, April 14th, the Annual Greek Parade will be held at Greektown, Halsted Street in Chicago, beginning at 2:30 p.m. We will be leaving St. Spyridon Church at 12:00 p.m. after the Divine Liturgy. Attendance in the Greek Parade is mandatory and is taken into account when attendance awards are considered. Students are required to wear the Ethnic Greek Costume (Tsolia and Amalia) or the blue and white school uniform. Friday, April 26 th will be the last day of class, Easter vacation begins. Classes will resume on Friday, May 10 th. Saturday, April 27 th, Saturday of Lazarus, Divine Liturgy & Communion Saturday for Greek & Sunday School students, followed by the Communion Breakfast and making of the Palms. Altar Boys The altar boys will be hosting the Presanctified Dinner on Wednesday, April 24th. All the Altar Boy Families are asked to bring a Lenten dish to the dinner which benefits the St. Iakovos Camp & Retreat Center. Also all the altar boys are asked to attend the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy with His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago on Friday, April 26th at 6:30 p.m. Finally, the altar boys will have a short training session for Holy Week on Saturday, April 27th, following the Divine Liturgy. Holy Week and Pascha is time for all the altar boys to shine in their dedication and service to the altar and the worship services. 8 The Voice

9 Congratulations to our Plutarchos Greek School teachers and students on a job well done for the celebration of March 31st- Greek Independence Day. The program of poems, skits, songs and dances was very well received by all! Και του χρόνου! We would like to acknowledge the entire 25 th of March Luncheon Committee for their hard work and dedication. Finally, a very big Thank You to all our donors. P.T.A. has a very eventful April from the start! Please keep these days in mind... Sunday, April 14th Greek Independence Day Parade in the Greek Town. Saturday, April 27th Saturday of Lazarus. A Pancake breakfast will follow the Divine Liturgy along with Making of Palms. This is a free event and everyone is welcomed. Easter Candle Sale Don t wait till the last minute to buy your Easter Candles! The P.T.A has beautifully decorated Candles for sale. Donation: $15 per candle. Attention, all high school seniors - Deadline for submitting applications and materials for the Annual P.T.A. Scholarship is May 1 st. Please drop off your completed application at the Church Office. Greek School students have received their applications. Principal Lambrini Stavrou will announce the date for the in-class essay competition. Hope to see many familiar faces over the next few weeks. Many thanks, to everyone for your time and support for our children and Parish. The P.T.A. wishes our entire St. Spyridon community a blessed Holy Week and Easter. Georgia Theoharis P.T.A. President P.T.A. St. Spyridon Sunday School 2013 Lenten Retreat Lady Lent Saturday, April 6th 9:00am 12:00 noon Grades K-6 Come join us as we spend the morning learning about the Sundays of Great Lent and how to prepare for Pascha! Day will include worship, lessons, crafts and more. Free of charge if registered by April 2nd. $10.00 fee for registrations received after April 2nd For more information, please contact Presvytera Georgia at presvyterageorgia@att.net St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 9

10 GREEKS GOT TALENT! On Friday, March 1 st, 38 students from Plutarchos Greek School showcased their amazing talent at St. Spyridon s 1 st annual talent show. The array of 24 performances ranged from acoustic guitar and bouzouki to singing in Greek and English, Tae -Kwon-do with board breaking, rhythmic cup synchronization, piano playing, and crowd pumping dancers who lit up the stage with their freestyle dance moves and neon glow apparel. The contest was not judged this year, so all participants were winners and received a certificate of participation. A special thank you to all parent volunteers, stagehands, and parents who supported our children. I am so proud of our youth. They are a group of exceptional kids with exceptional gifts! The talent show was awesome because of their hard work, motivation, and willingness. This is a great activity in which the youth can truly shine, commented Maria Baltsas, who coordinated the memorable event. 10 The Voice

11 GREEKS GOT TALENT! St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 11

12 CHERUBS Last month, we celebrated the beginning of spring at Cherubs! Our little ones made colorful rainbows. It was delicious fun! We also talked about colors, and celebrated our Greek Independence Day! We looked at a Greek flag we had in our class, at tsarouhia, and our amalia and tsolia dolls! The cherubs made their own tsolia and amalia that are displayed proudly in our window. This month we ll continue learning about spring, flowers and butterflies. We ll also be preparing for Holy Pascha! Happy Birthday to George Panos and Marina Kopitas who celebrated their birthdays with us! Να τα εκατοστήσετε! SACRAMENTS WEDDINGS Panagiotis Yiannopoulos and Shannan Pruitt were joined in Holy Matrimony on Saturday, March 9th. Their sponsors were Mr. & Mrs. Chris Yiannopoulos. Jorge Perez and Tina Pallas were joined in Holy Matrimony on Sunday, March 10th. Their sponsor was Peter Visvardis & Maria Matarangas. BAPTISMS The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Dale & Aretie Morrone was baptized on March 17th and given the name Arianna. Jimmy & Maria Capparelli were the sponsors. The twins of Mr. & Mrs. Peter & Alexandra Panagiotopoulos were baptized on March 24th. The boy was given the name Evangelos by his godparents Dimitrios & Roussa Kaftantzis. The girl was given the name Marianna by here godmother Angeliki Vassiliou. Να σας Ζήσουν! IN MEMORIAM Mr. Diamantis Antonopoulos fell asleep in the Lord on March 19th and his funeral took place at Saint Spyridon s on March 23rd. May his memory be eternal. MEMORIALS Sunday, March 3rd 2 years for Ioannis Kapetan, 24 years for Panayiota Kapetan, 18 years for Stamatiki Nickles and 10years for Panagiotis Panagiotopoulos. Sunday, March 11th 2 years for Demetra Proutsos Sunday, March 18th 40 days for George Bisbikis. THANK YOU To the Anonymous donors for donating food to our Food Pantry and for the Easter Baskets. To all the Philoptochos ladies for hosting the Lenten Dinner on Clean Monday. To all the Parish Organizations for organizing the Lenten Dinners. To all the donors and volunteers for the P.T.A. March 25th Luncheon. To all the teachers and students for a wonderful Greek Independence Day Program. To Ms. Evagelia Rogiokos for her donation to the Mission Fund. To Mr. John Spiro for his donation in memory of his wife Photini. To Mr. & Mrs. Zaharias Bousies, Anonymous, Mr. & Mrs. Bill Georgiopoulos, Mr. & Mrs. Apostolos Malfas, Mrs. Martha Eliopulos and Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Les for their donation for Pascha flowers. 12 The Voice

13 PARISH ANNOUNCEMENTS LENTEN MEALS During Great Lent, Lenten Meals will be hosted by the different Parish organizations of our community. Each dinner is pot-luck and always delicious. We ask that the members of each organization bring a lenten dish for their assigned day. The Lenten Meals will be held every Wednesday of Great Lent after the Presanctified Liturgy. All free will donations will benefit our Fund for the Needy. The Lenten Meal schedule is as follows: Wednesday, April 3rd P.T.A. * Wednesday, April 10th Handmaidens Wednesday, April 17th Choir & Chanters * Wednesday, April 24th Altar Boys Friday, April 26th Philoptochos Society MYROFORES Once again, the tradition of the Myrofores during Holy Week and Pascha continues. The Myrofores, this year, will be led by Eleni & Georgia Alexakos. Please let them or the church office know that you are willing to participate in the Myrofores. While a white robe is provided, the girls need to come dressed appropriately for church and with white shoes and white stockings. The Myrofores need to be at the church fifteen minutes before the start of the following services: Palm Sunday, April 28 th, Holy Monday, April 29 th & Holy Tuesday, April 30th - Service of the Bridegroom 7:00 p.m. Holy Friday, May 3rd The Epitaphios Service 7:30 p.m. * Holy Saturday, May 4th Resurrection Service 11:00 p.m. PASCHA Sunday, May 5th The Agape Service 12 noon HOLY WEEK & PASCHA PREPARATIONS The dying and wrapping of the Red Pascha Eggs will be on Thursday, May 2nd, Holy Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to help. The Epitaphion of our Lord will be decorated during the All-Night Vigil on Holy Thursday Evening on May 2nd. All parishioners and friends are invited to this beautiful Orthodox Tradition in which everyone can participate. We are looking for foreign language readers for the Agape Service on Sunday, May 5th at noon. If you can read any language other than English and Greek, please contact Fr. Tilemahos. ATTENTION GRADUATES On Sunday, May 19 th following the Divine Liturgy, we will honor all the High School and College Graduates in the church. Please submit the names of the graduates in your family by Tuesday, May 7th, so that they may be honored and included in the graduation program. ATHLETICS Τhe 31st Annual Junior Olympics will take place on May 25th 27th, 2012 at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Palos Hills. Our community will be represented by numerous athletes in individual sports and teams in softball, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Registration for the Junior Olympics will be held during the Coffee Social Hour after the Divine Liturgy. Or if you are interested in joining a team or competing for an individual sport, please contact Mr. John Angelos, Athletic Director, or the Church Office. St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 13

14 ΚΟΙΝΟΤΙΚΑ ΝΕΑ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟ ΣΧΟΛΕΙΟ ΠΛΟΥΤΑΡΧΟΣ Την Κυριακή, 14 Απριλίου και στις 2:30 μ.μ. θα γίνει η Ελληνική Παρέλαση στην Ελληνική Παροικία του Σικάγου. Πρέπει όλοι μας να εκκλησιασθούμε και στην συνέχεια να υποστηρίξουμε την Παρέλασή μας. Οι μαθητές του Ελληνικού Σχολείου πρέπει υποχρεωτικά να έλθουν όλοι στην Παρέλαση, διότι θα ληφθούν απουσίες. Η ενδυμασία θα είναι μπλε και άσπρο κι όσοι από τους μαθητές μας έχουν την Εθνική ενδυμασία της Αμαλίας και του Εύζωνα να την φορέσουν. Όλα τα μέλη της ενορίας είναι ευπρόσδεκτα να παρελάσουν με τους μαθητές του σχολείου μας. Την Παρασκευή, 26 Απριλίου, το Ελληνικό Σχολείο μας διακόπτει τα μαθήματά του για τις Εορτές της Μεγάλης Εβδομάδας και του Αγίου Πάσχα. Θα λειτουργήσει πάλι κανονικά την Παρασκευή, 10 Μαϊου, στις 4:30 μ.μ. Το Σάββατο, 27 Απριλίου, Σάββατο του Λαζάρου οι μαθητές του Ελληνικού και Κατηχητικού Σχολείου θα εκκλησιασθούν, θα κοινωνήσουν και μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία θα έχουν πρωινό και στην συνέχεια θα ετοιμάσουν τα βάια και τα στραυρουλάκια για την Κυριάκη των Βαϊων. ΛΟΥΛΟΥΔΙΑ ΜΕΓΑΛΗΣ ΤΕΣΣΑΡΑΚΟΣΤΗΣ ΚΑΙ ΠΑΣΧΑ Φέτος και πάλι, παρακαλούμε όλους όσους έχουν την ευχαρίστηση να προσφέρουν χρήματα για την αγορά λουλούδιων για τον στολισμό των εικόνων των Χαιρετισμών της Παναγίας, της Σαρακοστής, της Μεγάλης Εβδομάδας, του Επιταφίου, καθώς και για τις γλάστρες με τα παραδοσιακά κρίνα, να επικοινωνήσουν με το γραφείο της Εκκλησίας μας. ΙΕΡΑ ΕΞΟΜΟΛΟΓΗΣΙΣ Το εσώκλειστο πρόγραμμα υποδυκνείει τίς ώρες για Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγηση πού θα προσφέρεται στην εκκλησία μας. Μπορείτε επίσης να κανονίσετε διαφορερική ώρα επικοινονώντας με το κοινοτικό γραφείο. Επίσης σημειώσετε ότι δεν θα ακούγονται εξομολογήσεις μετά τήν Μεγάλη Τρίτη, 30 Απριλίου. ΠΡΟΣΦΟΡΑ ΤΟΥ ΚΑΦΕ Για τον μήνα του Απριλίου ο καφές μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία θα προσφέρεται από τον Σύλλογο Γονέων και Διδασκάλων. ΒΑΨΙΜΟ ΑΥΓΩΝ Όλοι μας είμαστε καλεσμένοι να βοηθήσουμε στο βάψιμο των κόκκινων αυγών που θα γίνει την Μεγάλη Πέμπτη, 2 Μαϊου, αρχίζοντας στις 10:00 π.μ. μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία. ΕΟΡΤΗ ΤΗΣ ΜΗΤΕΡΑΣ Τήν Κυριακή 12 Μαΐου, ἑορταστικό γεῦμα θά δωθεῖ στήν Κοινοτική Αἲθουσα πρός τιμήν τῆς ἑορτῆς τῆς Μητέρας, μετά τήν Θεία Λειτουργία. Παρακαλοῦμε νά τηλεφωνήσετε στό Γραφεῖο γιά κλείσεις θέσεων. ΑΠΟΘΗΚΗ ΤΡΟΦΙΜΩΝ Μή ξεχνάτε ότι η εκκλησία μας παρέχει τρόφιμα σε 12 οικογένειες που έχουν ανάγκη. Μπορείτε να φέρετε τις δωρεές σας στο κοινοτικό γραφείο. All Sunday School & Greek School Students, Parents, and Parishioners are invited to the GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE SUNDAY, APRIL 14th 2:30 p.m. IN GREEKTOWN 14 The Voice

15 SCHEDULE OF DIVINE SERVICES Monday, April 1st Confession 10 a.m.-12 noon * Great Compline 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 2nd Wednesday, April 3rd Friday, April 5th Saturday, April 6th Sunday, April 7th Monday, April 8th Tuesday, April 9th Wednesday, April 10th Friday, April 12th Saturday, April 13th Sunday, April 14th Monday, April 15th Tuesday, April 16th Wednesday, April 17th Thursday, April 18th Friday, April 19th Saturday, April 20th Sunday, April 21st Monday, April 22nd Tuesday, April 23rd Wednesday, April 24th Friday, April 26th Saturday, April 27th Sunday, April 28th Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy 6:30 p.m. Confession 10 a.m. 12 noon * Salutations 7:00 p.m. Confession 3 p.m. 6 p.m. * Vespers 6:00 p.m. Veneration of the Precious Cross, Orthros & Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. * Solemn Vespers 6:00 p.m. Confession 10 a.m.-12 noon * Great Compline 6:00 p.m. Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy 6:30 p.m. Confession 10 a.m. 12 noon * Salutations 7:00 p.m. Confession 4 p.m. 6 p.m. * Vespers 6:00 p.m. 4th Sunday of Lent St. John of the Ladder * Orthros & Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Confession 10 a.m.-12 noon * Great Compline 6:00 p.m. Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy 6:30 p.m. Great Canon of St. Andrew 8:00 a.m. Confession 10 a.m. 12 noon * Akathist 7:00 p.m. Confession 3 p.m. 6 p.m. * Vespers 6:00 p.m. 5th Sunday of Lent, St. Mary of Egypt, Orthros & Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. * Vespers 6:00 p.m. Confession 10 a.m.-12 noon * Great Compline 6:00 p.m. Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy 6:30 p.m. Holy Confession 10 a.m. 12 noon * Presanctified Liturgy with Metropolitan Iakovos presiding 6:30 p.m. Saturday of Lazarus, Orthros & Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Holy Confession 12 noon 6 p.m. * Vespers 6:00 p.m. Palm Sunday, Orthros & Div. Liturgy 8:00 a.m. * Service of the Nymphios 7:00 p.m. Monday, April 29th Holy Monday, Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Confession 11a.m. 2 p.m.*nymphios Service 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 30th Holy Tuesday, Presanctified Liturgy 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 1st Thursday, May 2nd Confession 11a.m. 2 p.m.*nymphios Service 7 p.m. Holy & Great Wednesday, Presanctified Liturgy 8 a.m. Holy Unction 4 p.m. Orthros of Holy Thurday 7 p.m. Holy & Great Thursday, Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil 8:00 a.m. * Service of the Passion of Christ - 6:30 p.m. All-night Vigil and Decoration of Epitaphios Friday, May 3rd Holy & Great Friday, Great & Royal Hours 8:00 a.m. * Saturday, May 4th Sunday, May 5th Apokathelosis 4:00 p.m. * Lamentations 7:30 p.m. Holy & Great Saturday, Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil 6:00 a.m. & 8:30 a.m.* Resurrection Service 11:00 p.m. HOLY PASCHA, Orthros & Divine Liturgy 12 midnight Agape Vespers 12 noon KENTRO Anticipating Holy Week and the Resurrection of our Lord, our Kentro of Orthodox Martyria Bookstore has ordered appropriate books, music and worship items, including lambades candles for the Orthodox Community that we serve. As in the past years, we feature Greek-English liturgical works such as THE AKATHISTOS HYMN, HOLY WEEK PASCHA and more. For your Lenten meals, we carry a wide variety of Lenten cookbooks. For your prosfora needs, take a look at our high quality wood prosfora seals imported from Greece. Available in three sizes, these seals (sfrayides) were crafted with loving care and skill by monks from the monastery. The fine, exacting cut carved into these seals ensures a sharp, deep impression not obtained by plastic seals of lesser quality. For truly distinctive prosfora, consider purchasing one of our seals. And for your home, we have renewed our supply of incense (livani) and charcoal. Please check out our newly expanded line of 3x4 wood icons which include many of the better known Saints. These icons not only make fine gifts, they also are a means of introducing young people to the meditative windows that the Saints images represent and inspire. As always we appreciate your patronage and pray that the upcoming Holy Week will be spiritually fulfilling for you and your family. St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 15

16 APRIL 2013 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 7 Sunday School Philoptochos Loukoumades 14 Sunday School Greek Parade 21 Sunday School Medical Presentation 28 PALM SUNDAY Palm Sunday Luncheon & Bake Sale MAY 5 HOLY PASCHA 1 Greek School-4:30 pm Greek Bible Study- 7pm 8 Academy Greek School-4:30 pm Greek Bible Study- 7pm 15 Academy Greek School-4:30 pm Greek Bible Study- 7pm 22 Greek School-4:30 pm Greek Bible Study- 7pm 29 HOLY MONDAY 2 Cherubs 10:30 a.m. 9 Cherubs 10:30 a.m. 16 Bible Study 10:30 a.m. Cherubs 10:30 a.m. 23 Bible Study 10:30 a.m. Cherubs 10:30 a.m. 30 HOLY TUESDAY 3 9 a.m. Lenten Meal hosted by the P.T.A. 10 Bible Study 10:30 a.m. Lenten Meal hosted by the Handmaidens 17 Lenten Meal hosted by the Choirs & Chanters 24 Lenten Meal hosted by the Altar Boys May 1 HOLY WEDNESDAY 4 Bible Study 10:30 a.m May 2 HOLY THURSDAY 5 Greek School 4:30 p.m. 12 Greek School 4:30 p.m. 19 Greek School 4:30 p.m. 26 Greek School 4:30 p.m. Lenten Meal hosted by the Philoptochos May 3 HOLY FRIDAY 6 Lenten Retreat Saturday of Lazarus Communion Breakfast (hosted by the P.T.A.) May 4 HOLY SATURDAY

17 ΠΡΟΓΡΑΜΜΑ ΙΕΡΩΝ ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΙΩΝ Δευτέρα, 1 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ. * Τρίτη, 2 Ἀπριλίου Τετάρτη, 3 Ἀπριλίου Παρασκευή, 5 Ἀπριλίου Σάββατο, 6 Ἀπριλίου Κυριακή, 7 Ἀπριλίου Μέγα Ἀπόδειπνο 6:00 μ.μ. Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία 8 π.μ. Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία 6:30 μ.μ. Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ. Χαιρετισμοί τῆς Θεοτόκου 7 μ.μ. Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 3 μ.μ. 5 μ.μ.* Μέγας Ἑσπερινός 6:00 μ.μ. Κυριακή τῆς Σταυροπροσκυνήσεως, Ὂρθρος καί Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. * Ἑσπερινός 6:00 μ.μ. Δευτέρα, 8 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ.* Μέγα Ἀπόδειπνο 6:00 μ.μ. Τρίτη, 9 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία 8 π.μ. Τετάρτη, 10 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία 6:30 μ.μ. Παρασκευή, 12 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ. Χαιρετισμοί τῆς Θεοτόκου 7:00 μ.μ Σάββατο, 13 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 4 μ.μ. 6 μ.μ. * Μέγας Ἑσπερινός 6:00 μ.μ. Ask your doctor By Dr Georgios Karanastasis Date: Sunday, April 21st 2013 Following the Liturgy Myocardial infraction Heart attack How to Prevent Ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. We will discuss how to prevent and what is the treatment of heart attack After presentation free discussion with questions will follow. Ιατρική Ενημέρωση Με τον Ιατρό Γεώργιο Καραναστάση Κυριακή, 21η Απριλίου Κυριακή, 14 Ἀπριλίου 4η Κυριακή τῶν Νηστειῶν * Ὂρθρος καί Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία Θέμα: ΕΜΦΡΑΓΜΑ ΤΟΥ Δευτέρα, 15 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ.* Μέγα Ἀπόδειπνο 6:00 μ.μ. ΜΥΟΚΑΡΔΙΟΥ - Μέτρα πρόληψης Τρίτη, 16 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Τετάρτη, 17 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 6:30 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 18 Ἀπριλίου Μέγας Κανών 8:00 π.μ. Παρασκευή, 19 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ. * Χαιρετισμοί τῆς Θεοτόκου 7:00 μ.μ Σάββατο, 20 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 11 π.μ. 6 μ.μ. * Μέγας Ἑσπερινός 6:00 μ.μ. Κυριακή, 21 Ἀπριλίου 5η Κυριακή τῶν Νηστειῶν * Ὂρθρος καί Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Δευτέρα, 22 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ.* Μέγα Ἀπόδειπνο 6:00 μ.μ. Τρίτη, 23 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Τετάρτη, 24 Ἀπριλίου Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 6:30 μ.μ. Παρασκευή, 26 Ἀπριλίου Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 10 π.μ.-12 μ.μ. Ἀρχιερατική Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 6:30 μ.μ. Σάββατο, 27 Ἀπριλίου Σάββατο τοῦ Λαζάρου, Ὂρθρος & Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. * Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 12 μ.μ. 6 μ.μ.* Μέγας Ἑσπερινός 6:00 μ.μ. Κυριακή, 28 Ἀπριλίου Κυριακή τῶν Βαΐων, Ὂρθρος & Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Ἀκολουθία τοῦ Νυμφίου 7:00 μ.μ. Δευτέρα, 29 Ἀπριλίου Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Δευτέρα, Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 11 π.μ.-2 μ.μ. * Ἀκολουθία τοῦ Νυμφίου 7:00 μ.μ. Τρίτη, 30 Ἀπριλίου Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Τρίτη, Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Ἱερά Ἐξομολόγησις 11 π.μ. 2 μ.μ. * Ἀκολουθία τοῦ Νυμφίου 7:00 μ.μ. Τετάρτη, 1 Μαΐου Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Τετάρτη, Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Ἃγιον Εὐχέλαιον 4:00 μ.μ.* Ὂρθρος τῆς Μεγάλης Πέμπτης 7:00 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 2 Μαΐου Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Πέμπτη, Ἑσπερινός καί Θεία Λειτουργία 8:00 π.μ. Ἀκολουθία τοῦ Παθῶν 6:30 μ.μ.*ἀγρυπνία καί στολισμός τοῦ Ἐπιταφίου Παρασκευή, 3 Μαΐου Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Παρασκευή, Ἀκολουθία τῶν Βασιλικῶν Ὡρῶν 8 π.μ. Ἑσπερινός τῆς Ἀποκαθήλωσης 4:00 μ.μ. * Ἀκολουθία τοῦ Ἐπιταφίου 7:30 μ.μ. Σάββατο, 4 Μαΐου Ἃγιον καί Μέγα Σάββατο, Ἑσπερινός καί Θεία Λειτουργία 6:00 π.μ. Ἑσπερινός καί Θεία Λειτουργία 8:30 π.μ. * Μεσονυκτικόν τῆς Ἀναστάσεως 11 μ.μ. Κυριακή, 5 Μαΐου ΑΓΙΟΝ ΠΑΣΧΑ, Ὂρθρος καί Θεία Λειτουργία 12 π.μ. * Ἑσπερινός τῆς Ἀγάπης 12 μ.μ. St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church 17

18 St. Spyridon Hellenic Orthodox Church S. Ridgeland Avenue Palos Heights, IL Address Correction Requested Attend Church Regularly with Your Family! Bulk Rate U.S. Postage PAID Permit #52 Palos Heights, IL. CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 5th General Assembly April 6th Lenten Retreat April 9th Parish Council Meeting April 14th Greek Parade April 26th Last day of Greek School April 26th Pre-Sanctified Liturgy with His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos officiating April 27th Saturday of Lazarus Communion & Breakfast April 28th Palm Sunday Luncheon Philoptochos Bake Sale April 29th Μay 5th Holy Week & Pascha May 12th Mother s Day Luncheon May 19th Sunday School Graduation May 25th-27th Jr. Olympics May 26th Tree of Love Memorial Please join us on Sunday, April 28th Orthros & Divine Liturgy beginning at 8 a.m. Immediately following the Divine Liturgy the Philoptochos invites you to a Palm Sunday Luncheon Salmon with Rice and Green Beans Fish Sticks with Tatar Tots and Corn Lenten Dessert Table with Coffee If prepaid by April 26th Adults $20.00 Children $10.00 Please make your reservations by April 26th