δεi δe χρημaτων, καi aνευ τοyτων οyδeν eστι γενeσθαι των δεoντων

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1 Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Churc h of Washington, DC Sunday of Thomas April 19, 2015 δεi δe χρημaτων, καi aνευ τοyτων οyδeν eστι γενeσθαι των δεoντων (Το χρήμα είναι αναγκαίο, χωρίς αυτό τίποτε δε γίνεται από όσα πρέπει) Δημοσθένης Ολυνθιακός/Α THERE IS NEED OF MONEY AND WITHOUT IT NOTHING CAN BE DONE (TO BE DONE) OF THE NEEDED

2 YMNOI THΣ ΗΜΕΡΑΣ Ἀπολυτίκιον Ἐσφραγισμένου τοῦ μνήματος, ἡ Ζωὴ ἐκ τάφου ἀνέτειλας Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, καὶ τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων, τοῖς Μαθηταῖς ἐπέστης, ἡ πάντων ἀνάστασις Πνεῦμα εὐθὲς δι' αὐτῶν ἐγκαινίζων ἡμῖν, κατὰ τὸ μέγα σου ἔλεος. HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion O Life, You rose from the sepulcher, even though the tomb was secured with a seal, O Christ God. And though the doors had been bolted, You came to Your disciples, O Resurrection of all. Through them You renew a right spirit in us, according to Your great mercy. Aπολυτίκιον Αγ. Κωνσταντίνου & Ελένης Τοῦ Σταυροῦ σου τὸν τύπον ἐν οὐρανῷ θεασάμενος, καὶ ὡς ὁ Παῦλος τὴν κλήσιν οὐκ ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δεξάμενος, ὁ ἐν βασιλεύσιν, Ἀπόστολός σου Κύριε, Βασιλεύουσαν πόλιν τὴ χειρί σου παρέθετο ἣν περίσωζε διὰ παντὸς ἐν εἰρήνῃ, πρεσβείαις τῆς Θεοτόκου, μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε. Apolytikion of Sts. Constantine & Helen Having seen the image of Thy Cross in Heaven, and like Paul, having received the call not from men, Thine apostle among kings entrusted the commonwealth to Thy hand, O Lord. Keep us always in peace, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, O only Friend of man. Aπολυτίκιον Αγ. Ανδρέα Ὡς τῶν Ἀποστόλων Πρωτόκλητος, καὶ τοῦ Κορυφαίου αὐτάδελφος, τὸν Δεσπότην τῶν ὅλων Ἀνδρέα ἱκέτευε, εἰρήνην τὴ οἰκουμένη δωρήσασθαι, καὶ ταὶς ψυχαὶς ἡ μῶν τὸ μέγα ἔλεος. Apolytikion of St. Andrew As first of the Apostles to be called, O Andrew, brother of him (Peter) who was foremost, beseech the Master of all to grant the world peace and our souls great mercy. Κοντάκιον/Ἦχος πλ. δʹ Εἰ καὶ ἐν τάφῳ κατῆλθες Ἀθάνατε, ἀλλὰ τοῦ ᾅδου καθεῖλες τὴν δύναμιν καὶ ἀνέστης ὡς νικητής, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, γυναιξὶ Μυροφόροις φθεγξάμενος, Χαίρετε, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις εἰρήνην δωρούμενος, ὁ τοῖς πεσοῦσι παρέχων ἀνάστασιν. Kontakion/Mode 4 Though You went down into the tomb, O Immortal One, yet You brought down the dominion of Hades; and You rose as the victor, O Christ our God; and You called out "Rejoice" to the Myrrh-bearing women, and gave peace to Your Apostles, O Lord who to the fallen grant resurrection. 2

3 HOW TO FOLLOW THE CHURCH SERVICES ON YOUR SMART PHONE/IPAD Step 1: Open your smart phone/ipad. Step 2: Turn on WiFi. Step 3: Select WiFi name: Greek Orthodox Step 4: Use password: greekwireless Step 5: Launch a browser. Type in Step 6: Tap on Step 7: Select the date of the service. You will see Matins. Tap on GR-EN Text/Music. Step 8: When Matins is completed go back to the Table of Contents and tap on Divine Liturgy. Tap on GR-EN Text/Music. HOW TO ACCESS THE FM RADIO STATION: PEMPTOUSIA.FM Step 1: Open your smart phone/ipad/pc. Step 2: Launch a browser. Type in You re done Follow this 24 hours WEB Radio Broadcast 3

4 ΑΠΟΣΤΟΛΟΣ Στα Νεα Ελληνικα Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων 5:12-20 Με τα χέρια δε των Αποστόλων εγίνοντο πολλά και μεγάλα θαύματα, που επιμαρτυρούσαν την αλήθειαν του κηρύγματός των και επροκαλούσαν κατάπληξιν στον λαόν. Και ήσαν όλοι με μια καρδιά και με μια γνώμη εις την στοάν του Σολομώντος. Από δε τους άλλους, που είχαν πιστεύσει, κανείς δεν ετολμούσε να τους πλησιάση και να ανακατευθή με θάρρος μαζή των, αλλά ο λαός τους ετιμούσε και τους εδόξαζε. Οσον δε επερνούσαν αι ημέραι, ολονέν περισσότερα πλήθη ανδρών και γυναικών προσειλκύοντο εις την πίστιν του Κυρίου και επροστίθεντο στον αριθμόν των πιστών. Ο σεβασμός δε και η εκτίμησις του λαού προς αυτούς δια την θείαν δύναμιν, που ενεργούσε δια μέσου αυτών, ήτο τόσος, ώστε έβγαζαν τους ασθενείς εις τας πλατείας και τους έβαζαν οι μεν πλούσιοι επάνω εις κλίνας, οι δε πτωχοί εις απέριττα κρεββάτια, ώστε, όταν θα ήρχετο και θα επερνούσε ο Πετρος, και η σκια του έστω να πέση επάνω εις κανένα από αυτούς, δια να τον θεραπεύση. Αλλά και το πλήθος των γύρω πόλεων εμαζεύοντο εις την Ιερουσαλήμ και έφεραν τους ασθενείς και αυτούς που ηνωχλούντο από πονηρά πνεύματα, οι οποίοι και εθεραπεύοντο όλοι. Ο αρχιερεύς όμως και όλοι όσοι ήσαν μαζή με αυτόν, αυτοί που αποτελούσαν την θρησκευτικήν παράταξιν των Σαδδουκαίων, εκυριεύθησαν από φθόνον και κακίαν και εκινήθησαν εναντίον των Αποστόλων. Απλωσαν δε τα χέρια τους στους Αποστόλους, τους επιασαν και τους έβαλαν υπό επιτήρησιν εις την δημοσίαν φυλακήν. Αγγελος όμως Κυρίου κατά την νύκτα ήνοιξε τας θύρας της φυλακής, τους έβγαλε έξω και τους είπε πηγαίνετε, σταθήτε με θάρρος και διδάσκετε εις τας αυλάς του ναού τον λαόν όλα τα λόγια της νέας αυτής ζωής, που σας μετέδωκε ο Ιησούς EPISTLE Our Epistle Reader today is: Miss Alexis Romas Acts of the Apostles 5:12-20 IN THOSE DAYS, many signs and wonders were done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high honor. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. But the high priest rose up and all who were with him, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the common prison. But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out and said, "Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life." 4

5 ΕΥΑΓΓΕΛΙΟ Στα Νεα Ελληνικα Κατὰ Ἰωάννην Κατά την ημέραν εκείνην, την πρώτην της εβδομάδος, ενώ πλέον είχε βραδυάσει και αι θύραι του σπιτιού, όπου ευρίσκοντο συγκεντωμένοι οι μαθηταί, ήσαν κλεισμέναι δια τον φόβον των Ιουδαίων, ήλθεν έξαφνα ο Ιησούς, εστάθη στο μέσον και τους λέγει ειρήνη ας είναι εις σας. Και αφού είπε τούτο, έδειξεν εις αυτούς τα χέρια και την πλευράν του, δια να ίδουν τα σημάδια των πληγών και πιστεύσουν ότι αυτός είναι ο διδάσκαλός των. Και τότε οι μαθηταί, όταν είδαν τον Κυριον αναστημένον, εχάρησαν. Είπε, λοιπόν, τότε εις αυτούς ο Ιησούς ειρήνη εις σας. Οπως έστειλεν εμέ ο Πατήρ, δια να τελειώσω το έργον της σωτηρίας των ανθρώπων, έτσι και εγώ στέλνω σας, να μεταφέρετε στους ανθρώπους την σωτηρίαν. Και αφού είπε τούτο, εφύσησε εις τα πρόσωπα των την ζωογόνον πνοήν της νέας ζωής και τους είπε λάβετε Πνεύμα Αγιον. Εις όποιους συγχωρείτε τις αμαρτίες, θα είναι συγχωρημένες και από τον Θεόν. Εις όποιους όμως τις κρατείτε άλυτες και ασυγχώρητες, θα μείνουν αιωνίως ασυγχώρητες. Ο Θωμάς όμως, ένας από τους δώδεκα, ο οποίος ελέγετο εις την ελληνικήν Διδυμος, δεν ήτο μαζή τους, όταν ήλθε ο Ιησούς. Ελεγαν, λοιπόν, εις αυτόν οι άλλοι μαθηταί είδαμε τον Κυριον. Εκείνος όμως τους είπε εάν δεν ίδω εις τα χέρια του το σημάδι των καρφιών και δεν βάλω το δάκτυλό μου στο σημάδι των καρφιών, και αν δεν βάλω το χέρι μου εις την πλευράν, που την ετρύπησε η λόγχη, δεν θα πιστεύσω. Και έπειτα από οκτώ ημέρας ήσαν πάλιν οι μαθηταί μέσα στο σπίτι και ο Θωμάς μαζή με αυτούς. Ερχεται, λοιπόν, ο Ιησούς έξαφνα, ενώ οι πόρτες ήσαν κλεισμένες, εστάθηκε στο μέσον και είπε ειρήνη υμίν. Επειτα λέγει στον Θωμάν φέρε το δάκτυλό σου εδώ, ιδέ και με τα μάτια σου τα χέρια μου και φέρε το χέρι σου και βάλε το εις την πλευράν μου, ψηλάφησε και ιδέ τα σημάδια των καρφιών και της λόγχης, και μη γίνεσαι άπιστος, αλλά πιστός. Απήντησε τότε ο Θωμάς και είπε εις αυτόν Πιστεύω, Κυριε, ότι συ είσαι ο Κυριος μου και ο Θεός μου. Λεγει εις αυτόν ο Ιησούς επίστευσες, διότι με είδες μακάριοι θα είναι απ' εδώ και πέρα στους αιώνας των αιώνων, εκείνοι οι οποίοι καίτοι δεν με είδαν, επίστευσαν. Εκτός από το θαύμα αυτό της αναστάσεως και από όσα άλλα θαύματα είχε κάμει προηγουμένως ο Ιησούς, έκαμε και πολλά άλλα, εμπρός στους μαθητάς του, τα οποία απεδείκνυαν την θεότητά του και το έργον του, και τα οποία δεν είναι γραμμένα στο ιερόν τούτο βιβλίον. Αυτά δε, που εξιστορήσαμεν, εγράφησαν, δια να πιστεύσετε ότι ο Ιησούς είναι ο Χριστός, ο Υιός του Θεού και ίνα πιστεύοντες αυτόν με φωτισμένην και ενεργόν πίστιν, έχετε, ως παντοτεινόν κτήμα σας, εν τω ονόματι αυτού, την αιωνίαν ζωήν. 5

6 GOSPEL The Gospel of John 20:19-31 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them: "Peace be with you." When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them: "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him: "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them: "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in His side, I will not believe." Eight days later, His disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said: "Peace be with you." Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing." Thomas answered Him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to Him: "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. 6

7 Συμβολον Της Πίστεως Πιστεύω εἰς ἕνα Θεόν, Πατέρα, Παντοκράτορα, ποιητὴν οὐρανοῦ καὶ γῆς, ὁρατῶν τε πάντων καὶ ἀοράτων. Καὶ εἰς ἕνα Κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν, τὸν Υἱὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ τὸν μονογενῆ, τὸν ἐκ τοῦ Πατρὸς γεννηθέντα πρὸ πάντων τῶν αἰώνων φῶς ἐκ φωτός, Θεὸν ἀληθινὸν ἐκ Θεοῦ ἀληθινοῦ, γεννηθέντα οὐ ποιηθέντα, ὁμοούσιον τῷ Πατρί, δι' οὗ τὰ πάντα ἐγένετο. Τὸν δι' ἡμᾶς τοὺς ἀνθρώπους καὶ διὰ τὴν ἡμετέραν σωτηρίαν κατελθόντα ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν καὶ σαρκωθέντα ἐκ Πνεύματος Ἁγίου καὶ Μαρίας τῆς Παρθένου καὶ ἐνανθρωπήσαντα. Σταυρωθέντα τε ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἐπὶ Ποντίου Πιλάτου, καὶ παθόντα καὶ ταφέντα. Καὶ ἀναστάντα τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρα κατὰ τὰς Γραφάς. Καὶ ἀνελθόντα εἰς τοὺς οὐρανοὺς καὶ καθεζόμενον ἐκ δεξιῶν τοῦ Πατρός. Καὶ πάλιν ἐρχόμενον μετὰ δόξης κρῖναι ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς, οὗ τῆς βασιλείας οὐκ ἔσται τέλος. Καὶ εἰς τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, τὸ Κύριον, τὸ ζωοποιόν, τὸ ἐκ τοῦ Πατρὸς ἐκπορευόμενον, τὸ σὺν Πατρὶ καὶ Υἱῷ συμπροσκυνούμενον καὶ συνδοξαζόμενον, τὸ λαλῆσαν διὰ τῶν προφητῶν. Εἰς μίαν, Ἁγίαν, Καθολικὴν καὶ Ἀποστολικὴν Ἐκκλησίαν. Ὁμολογῶ ἓν βάπτισμα εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν. Προσδοκῶ ἀνάστασιν νεκρῶν. Καὶ ζωὴν τοῦ μέλλοντος αἰῶνος. Ἀμήν. The Nicene Creed I believe in one God, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all ages. Light of Light, true God of true God, begotten not created, of one essence with the Father through Whom all things were made. Who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven and was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became man. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried. And He rose on the third day, according to the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. And He will come again with glory to judge the living and dead. His kingdom shall have no end. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Creator of life, Who proceeds from the Father, Who together with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, Who spoke through the prophets. In one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the age to come. Amen. Κυριακή Προσευχή Πάτερ ἡμῶν ὁ ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς, ἁγιασθήτω τὸ ὄνομά σου. Ἐλθέτω ἡ βασιλεία σου. Γενηθήτω τὸ θέλημά σου, ὡς ἐν οὐρανῷ καὶ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς. Τὸν ἄρτον ἡμῶν τὸν ἐπιούσιον δὸς ἡμῖν σήμερον. Καὶ ἄφες ἡμῖν τὰ ὀφειλήματα ἡμῶν, ὡς καὶ ἡμεῖς ἀφίεμεν τοῖς ὀφειλέταις ἡμῶν. Καὶ μὴ εἰσενέγκῃς ἡμᾶς εἰς πειρασμόν, ἀλλὰ ρῦσαι ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ πονηροῦ. The Lord s Prayer Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. ΕΥΧΕΣ ΠΡΟ ΤΗΣ ΘΕΙΑΣ ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΑΣ Πιστεύω, Κύριε, και ομολογώ ότι συ ει αληθώς ο Χριστός, ο Υιός του Θεού του ζώντος, ο ελθών εις τον κόσμον αμαρτωλούς σώσαι, ων πρώτος ειμί εγώ. Έτι πιστεύω, ότι τούτο αυτό εστί το αχράντον Σώμα σου και τούτο αυτό εστί το τίμιον Αίμα σου. Δέομαι ουν σου, ελέησόν με και συγχώρησον μοι τα παραπτώματά μου, τα εκούσια και τα ακούσια, τα εν λόγω, τα εν έργω, τα εν γνώσει και αγνοία, και αξίωσόν με ακατακρίτως μετασχείν των αχράντων σου μυστηρίων, εις άφεσιν αμαρτιών, και εις ζωήν αιώνιον. Αμήν. Ιδού βαδίζω προς Θείαν Κοινωνίαν, Πλαστουργέ, μη φλέξης με τη μετουσία, Πυρ γαρ υπάρχεις τους αναξίους φλέγον. Αλλ ουν κάθαρον εκ πάσης με κηλίδος. Του Δείπνου σου του μυστικού, σήμερον, Υιέ Θεού, κοινωνόν με παράλαβε, ου μη γαρ τοις εχθροίς σου το 7

8 μυστήριον είπω, ου φίλημα σοι δώσω, καθάπερ ο Ιούδας, αλλ ως ο Ληστής ομολογώ σοι. Μνήσθητι μου Κύριε, εν τη βασιλεία σου. Θεουργόν Αίμα φρίξον, άνθρωπε βλέπων, Άνθραξ γαρ εστί τους αναξίους φλέγων, Θεού το Σώμα, και θεοί με, και τρέφει, Θεοί το πνεύμα, τον δε νουν τρέφει ξένως. Έθελξας πόθω με Χριστέ, και ηλλοίωσας τω θείω έρωτι, αλλά κατάφλεξον πυρί αϋλω τας αμαρτίας μου, και εμπλησθήναι της εν σοι τρυφής καταξίωσον, ίνα τας δύο σκιρτών μεγαλύνω, Αγαθέ, παρουσίας σου. Εν ταις λαμπρότησι των αγίων σου, πως εισελεύσομαι ο ανάξιος; Εάν γαρ τολμήσω συνεισελθείν εις τον νυμφώνα, ο χιτών με ελέγχει. Ότι ουκ έστι του γάμου, και δέσμιος εκβαλούμαι υπό των Αγγέλων, καθάρισον, Κύριε, τον ρύπον της ψυχής μου, και σώσον με, ως φιλάνθρωπος. Δέσποτα φιλάνθρωπε, Κύριε Ιησού Χριστέ, ο Θεός μου, μη εις κρίμα μοι γένοιτο τα Άγια ταύτα, δια το ανάξιον είναι με, αλλ εις κάθαρσιν και αγιασμόν ψυχής τε και σώματος, και εις αρραβώνα μελλούσης ζωής και βασιλείας. Εμοί δε το προσκολλάσθαι τω Θεώ αγαθόν εστί, τίθεσθαι εν τω Κυρίω την ελπίδα της σωτηρίας μου. Του Δείπνου σου του μυστικού, σήμερον, Υιέ Θεού, κοινωνόν με παράλαβε, ου μη γαρ τοις εχθροίς σου το μυστήριον είπω, ου φίλημα σοι δώσω, καθάπερ ο Ιούδας, αλλ ως ο Ληστής ομολογώ σοι. Μνήσθητι μου Κύριε, εν τη βασιλεία σου. PRAYERS BEFORE HOLY COMMUNION I believe, Lord, and I confess, that You are truly the Christ, the Son of the living God, Who came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the first. Moreover, I believe that this is Your immaculate Body, and that this is Your precious Blood. Wherefore, I pray to You: have mercy on me, and forgive me my transgressions, those voluntary and involuntary, those in word, those in deed, those in knowledge and those in ignorance; and make me worthy to partake of Your immaculate Mysteries without condemnation, for the remission of sins and life everlasting. Amen. Behold, I approach for divine Communion; Creator, burn me not as I partake; For You are Fire, which burns the unworthy. But, rather, cleanse me from every impurity. Of Your Mystical Supper, Son of God, receive me today as a communicant; for I will not speak of the Mystery to Your enemies; nor will I give You a kiss, as did Judas, but like the thief I confess You: Remember me, Lord, when You come into Your Kingdom! Be awe-stricken, O man, beholding the deifying Blood; For it is a lighted Coal that burns the unworthy. The divine Body both deifies and nourishes me; It deifies the spirit, and wondrously nourishes the mind. You have smitten me with yearning, O Christ, and by Your divine zeal You have changed me; but burn away my sins with immaterial Fire, and make me worthy to be filled with delight in You; that, leaping for joy, O good One, I may magnify Your two comings. Into the brilliant company of Your saints, how shall I the unworthy enter? For if I dare to enter into the bridal chamber, my garment betrays me, for it is not a wedding garment, and I shall be bound and cast out by the Angels; Lord, cleanse my soul of pollution, and save me, for You love mankind. Master, Who loves mankind, Lord Jesus Christ my God, do not let these Holy Things be to me for judgment because of my unworthiness, but rather may they be for the purification and sanctification of soul and body, and as a pledge of the life and Kingdom to come. For it is good for me to cleave to God, to put my hope of salvation in the Lord. Of Your Mystical Supper, Son of God, receive me today as a communicant; for I will not speak of the Mystery to Your enemies; nor will I give You a kiss, as did Judas, but like the thief I confess You: Remember me, Lord, when You come into Your Kingdom! Remember me, Master, when You come into Your Kingdom! Remember me, Holy One, when You come into Your Kingdom! 8

9 SAINTS AND FEASTS George the Great Martyr & Triumphant-April 23 George, this truly great and glorious Martyr of Christ, was born of a father from Cappadocia and a mother from Palestine. Being a military tribune, or chiliarch (that is, a commander of a thousand troops), he was illustrious in battle and highly honoured for his courage. When he learned that the Emperor Diocletian was preparing a persecution of the Christians, Saint George presented himself publicly before the Emperor and denounced him. When threats and promises could not move him from his steadfast confession, he was put to unheard-of tortures, which he endured with great bravery, overcoming them by his faith and love towards Christ. By the wondrous signs that took place in his contest, he guided many to the knowledge of the truth, including Queen Alexandra, wife of Diocletian, and was finally beheaded in 296 in Nicomedia. His sacred remains were taken by his servant from Nicomedia to Palestine, to a town called Lydda, the homeland of his mother, and then were finally transferred to the church which was raised up in his name Elizabeth the Wonderworker April 24 Saint Elizabeth was born in Heraclea of Thrace. She lived in virginity and exhausted herself with ascetical labours and every kind of hardship from the time of her youth, and was deemed worthy of the grace of wonderworking from God; she reposed in peace in Constantinople in the middle of the fifth century. 9

10 PRAYER LIST If you would like us to remember you or your loved one in our prayers, please contact the church office. Maria, Simeon, Nikitas, Andreas, Constantine, Andreas, Pavlos, Elena, Elaine, Presbytera Flora, Louis, Fr. Peter, Kathy, Kalliope, Maria, Chris, John, Georgia, Jennie, Dean, Chrisanthi, Aziz, Wendy, Achilleas, Bill, Nickolas and Sylvia. PRAYER FOR A SICK PERSON Heavenly Father, physician of our souls and bodies, who have sent Your onlybegotten Son and our Lord Jesus Christ to heal every sickness and infirmity, visit and heal me Your servant from all physical and spiritual ailments through the grace of Your Christ. Grant me patience in this sickness, strength of body and spirit, and recovery of health. Lord, You have taught us through Your word to pray for each other that we may be healed. I pray that You heal me as Your servant and grant me the gift of complete health. For You are the source of healing and to You I give glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. 10

11 PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS: Xristos Anesti! The general meeting will be held today after Divine Liturgy. We will have nominations for the Board. Thank you to everyone that helped set up, bake, donate goodies and sell pastry for the annual Philoptochos Pascha Bake Sale. YOUNG AT HEART: Our next outing will be Tuesday, April 21 st, to the Anderson House, Washington, DC. No admission charge. Lunch will be at the Scion Restaurant. See the flyer in this bulletin. Christina Clifton is making arrangements for Hillwood Estate in May. FESTIVAL: Looking for interested vendors for our May Festival. If you are interested in being a vendor or have any contacts for vendors, please call Effie THE MORE YOU KNOW VISITATION: Not everyone has . Not everyone has the ability to come to church on Sundays. The place of the priest is primarily in front of the altar then he should be in your home or business not sitting in his office. I am inviting myself to your home/apartment to share with you the good news of our parish. Please contact Father Michael at (301) CONFESSION: Father Michael is available for confession at your convenience. Please call on his cell phone at (301) or fm@papouli.net for an appointment. ATTENTION PARENTS: Do you have a college-aged son or daughter? We are again sending out college care packages to the college-aged young adults of Sts. Constantine & Helen. Please call or your son s or daughter's college mailing address to Heidi Mantzouranis at by April 19th. This is a congratulatory gift from their parish that they will treasure always. 11

12 Christ Removed the Three Obstacles Between God and Man By St. Nicholas Cabasilas Men were triply separated from God; by nature, by sin and by death - yet the Savior made them to attain to Him perfectly and to be immediately united to Him by successively removing all obstacles. The first barrier He removed by partaking of manhood, the second by being put to death on the cross. As for the final barrier, the tyranny of death, He eliminated it completely from our nature by rising again. For this reason Paul says, the last enemy to be destroyed is death (1 Cor. 15:26). He would not have called it an enemy unless it were an obstacle to our true joy. It is necessary that the heirs of the immortal God should be set free from corruption, for Paul says, corruption does not inherit incorruption (1 Cor. 15:50). After the common resurrection of mankind of which the Savior s resurrection is the cause, the mirror and the dimness (1 Cor. 13:12) recede and those who have been purified in heart shall see God face to face (Mt. 5:8). From The Life in Christ, 3:3 12

13 STEWARDSHIP Orthodox Christian Stewardship is a way of life, which acknowledges accountability, reverence, and responsibility before God. A primary goal of Stewardship is to promote spiritual growth and strengthen faith. Becoming a Steward begins when we believe in God, to whom we give our love, loyalty and trust and act on those beliefs. As Stewards, we affirm that every aspect of our lives comes as a gift from Him. Stewardship calls on the faithful to cheerfully offer back to God a portion of the gifts with which they have been blessed. An Orthodox Christian Steward is an active participant in the life of the Church. The parish encourages all who accept the Orthodox Faith to become practicing Stewards. Each year the Steward is expected to carefully review his or her personal circumstances and make a commitment of time, talent, and treasure to support the Parish and her Ministries, which in turn support the National Ministries of our Archdiocese, Metropolises, and institutions. Effective stewardship ministry is not a single event or project. Rather, it is going out to our people wherever they are in their walk with Christ, listening to their concerns, helping them to realize their importance as branches of the True Vine and encouraging them to offer their gifts in His service. We use various resources to support our efforts, but unless we meet with our people personally, sincerely listen to their ideas and concerns, and share a vision for the future of the parish, our efforts will not each their full potential. In Oriented Leadership their book on Orthodox Christian leadership, Williams and McKibben define stewardship as the call of the faithful to share willingly the gifts that God has bestowed on them, including sharing these gifts for God s work. Stewardship is devotion and service to God and His Church as persons, as families, as a Parish, as a Metropolis, as a National Church, and as the Church Universal. Stewardship is our active commitment to use ALL our time, talent and treasure for the benefit of humankind in grateful acknowledgement of Christ s redeeming love. Stewardship is caring for the needs of others. Stewardship is offering one's self to God as He offered Himself to us. Stewardship is what a person does after saying "I believe..." as proof of that belief. - Williams and McKibben in Oriented Leadership. In the words of Fr. William Chiganos of Holy Apostles Church in Westchester, Illinois, people don t give to need; they give to vision. Church people don t stretch their giving because of need to meet the budget; they give more because they are able to see a vision of people being reached and God s purposes being accomplished in the life of the church and its ministry. Parishes with successful Orthodox Christian Stewardship Programs have found that incredible support is unleashed from Stewards who unselfishly and joyfully offer their time, talent and treasures, which in turn enhances the spirituality and ministry of the local parish. 13

14 ARTICLE OF THE WEEK Questions about St. Thomas Sunday QUESTION-1 When is the Sunday of St. Thomas? Why? On the Sunday of St. Thomas, two hymns normally sung in Sunday matins are not sung. What are these hymns? Why are they not sung? ANSWER-1 St Thomas Sunday is the Second Sunday of Pascha, or, said another way, the first Sunday after the Sunday of Pascha. The Gospel text for the day gives a clue as to why the celebration is at this time: "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you." (John 20:19) "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe." (John 20:24-26) And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.... " (John 20:27) On the Sunday of St. Thomas, the Resurrectional Evlogitaria sung before the Hymns of ascent which precede the Gospel, and immediately after either the Polyeleos or 118th psalm in normal times) are not sung, and neither is the "Magnificat"("My soul magnifies the Lord...", which is usually sung between the eighth and ninth ode of the matins canon). These hymns are omitted because the feast of St. Thomas Sunday is a "Feast of the Lord", and it supersedes EVERYTHING from the normal Resurrectional service, just as Nativity, or another feast of the Lord would. QUESTION-2 A Hymn normally sung once in Sunday matins is sung three times, in the matins for St. Thomas Sunday, and until when? What is the hymn? ANSWER-2 "Having beheld the resurrection" (certainly very familiar to everyone who has sung the Paschal Hours in lieu of morning prayers during Bright week, since it is also sung three times then), is normally sung once in Sunday matins, just after the Gospel is read. During the Paschal season, until and including the Sunday preceding Ascension Thursday, it is sung three times. QUESTION-3 How many days after the resurrection were required for Thomas to believe? Why did he not originally believe? ANSWER-3 According to the Gospel of St. John, Jesus appeared unto the Apostles the first time on the evening of Pascha, with Thomas being absent, then the second time eight days later, with him being present. He originally did not believe because of the incredible reality of the resurrection. He needed to see the evidence. QUESTION-4 How does the Holy Spirit, through the services characterize Thomas' unbelief? 14

15 ANSWER-4 The church characterizes St. Thomas' unbelief as "good", because it led to a greater manifestation of the reality of Christ's resurrection in the flesh: "As the disciples were in doubt, / the Savior came on the eighth day / to where they were gathered and granted them peace, / and cried unto Thomas: / Come, O Apostle, and feel the palms in which they fastened the nails. / O good unbelief of Thomas, / which hath led the hearts of the faithful to knowledge! / Hence, he cried out with fear: // O my Lord and my God, glory be to Thee." (Sticheron from Lord I have cried, vespers for St. Thomas Sunday) QUESTION-5 What strident words did the Holy Apostle Thomas say, which were quite similar to the Holy Apostle Peter's just before the Passion Week of our Savior? Were these words shown to be sincere? ANSWER-5 Just before Jesus went to Bethany to raise Lazarus, which preceded His passion week by only a little, St. John recounts in his Gospel: "Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him." (John 11:16). This sentiment was also expressed by the Holy Apostle Peter during the passion week: "Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice." (John 13:36-38) St. John Chrysostom also states quite clearly the magnificent transformation of Thomas, and his great courage: 'Now they all feared the attacks of the Jews, but Thomas above the rest; wherefore also he said, Ver. 16. "Let us go, that we also may die with Him." Some say that he desired himself to die; but it is not so; the expression is rather one of cowardice. Yet he was not rebuked, for Christ as yet supported his weakness, but afterwards he became stronger than all, and invincible. (6) For the wonderful thing is this; that we see one who was so weak before the Crucifixion, become after the Crucifixion, and after having believed in the Resurrection, more zealous than any. So great was the power of Christ. The very man who dared not go in company with Christ to Bethany, the same while not seeing Christ ran (7) well nigh through the inhabited world, and dwelt in the midst of nations that were full of murder, and desirous to kill him.' (St. John Chrysostom, sermon on St. John's Gospel, verse 21:12) QUESTION-6 "And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst... Then saith he to Thomas... and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God." (John 20:26-27 (parts), 20:28) What is the theological meaning of St. Thomas' expression of worship? ANSWER-6 An Old Believer Sermon, based mostly on the writings of St. John Chrysostom and Blessed Archbishop Theofylact of Bulgaria, among others, explains that the expression "My Lord and my God" indicates the dual nature of Christ. As a man, He is called Lord, as an earthly king might be, and also is God. The Aposticha for the Vespers service echoes this idea: "O strange wonder, / unbelief hath given birth unto steadfast faith! / For Thomas said: / Unless I see, I shall not believe. / And when he touched the side of Christ, / he spake with divine authority / concerning the Incarnate One Who is the very Son of God, / and recognized Him as the One Who suffered in the flesh. / He proclaimed the Risen God, and cried with a radiant voice: // O my Lord and my God, glory be to Thee". When Thomas proclaimed "My Lord and My God", he was saying something wholly unique, never said before. This was the first time Jesus was explicitly called God by one of His disciples. 15

16 QUESTION-7 How many times had the apostles as a group seen the risen Lord before St. Thomas saw Him and believed? ANSWER-7 Jesus appeared to all the apostles save Thomas on the eve of the day of the Resurrection - Sunday evening. He did not appear again unto them until eight days later, when Thomas was with them. "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst... But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst..." (John 20:19a, 24,26a) QUESTION-8 What important priestly charism was given by Christ when He came to the upper room the first time He saw the apostles? ANSWER-8 Jesus gave the apostles, and whom they would appoint, and their successors, down through the ages, the authority to bind and loose sins. A priest (or bishop, of course), usually exercises this authority and responsibility in the sacrament of confession. "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.... Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and faith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whosoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose so ever sins ye retain, they are retained." (John 20:19,21-23) QUESTION-9 What far away land did St. Thomas spread the Gospel to, where he met his end as a martyr? ANSWER-9 The Holy Apostle Thomas spread the gospel to India, where he courageously met his end, being run through with five lances. QUESTION-10 What is unique about how the church reads the story of the doubting of Thomas? ANSWER-10 On the day of Pascha, a portion of the story of the doubting of Thomas is read during Vespers. This Gospel is usually read in many languages, often in three short sections. The next week, on St. Thomas Sunday, the entire selection read during vespers is read again, and the story is finished, during the Divine Liturgy. This is the only time when a part of a gospel is read one week, then the reading is completed the next week. It is also not common to read a gospel selection in daily vespers. 16

17 AN INVITATION We, at Saints Constantine & Helen of Washington, DC, have a vision that is amazing and exciting! We are inviting you to invest yourself through the resources that God has given you your energy, your prayers, and your money in this work to which God has called us. WE WANT TO MAKE YOU RICH! You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity (2 Corinthians 9:11) 17

18 GREEK ORTHODOX 1 Chronicles ARCHDIOCESE 29 OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Gifts for Building the Temple David told the crowd: Protocol Number 01/15 God chose my son Solomon to build the temple, January but 1, Solomon 2015 is young and has no experience. This is not just any building this is the Feast temple of for Saint the Basil Lord and God! New Year 2 Let That s the children why I come have to done me, and my do best not hinder to get them; everything for to such Solomon belongs will the kingdom need to of build heaven. it gold, (Matthew silver, bronze, 19:14) iron, wood, onyx, turquoise, colored gems, all kinds of precious stones, and marble. 3 Besides doing all that, I have promised to give part of my own gold and silver as a way of showing my To the love Most for Reverend God s temple. Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the 4 Almost one hundred twenty tons of my finest gold and over two hundred fifty tons of my silver will be used to decorate its walls Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America 5 and to make the gold and silver objects. Now, who else will show their dedication to the Lord by giving Beloved gifts Brothers for building and Sisters his in temple? Christ, 6 On After this David blessed finished Feast of Saint speaking, Basil and the the family beginning leaders, of the New tribal Year, leaders, our honored the army tradition commanders, is to offer and prayers the government and support for officials the sacred voluntarily ministry of gave our gifts beloved for Saint the temple. Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of 7 our These Holy Archdiocese gifts included has almost offered two the love hundred of Christ, tons the of comfort gold, three of His hundred presence, eighty and the tons healing of silver, power of almost faith seven to children, hundred youth, tons and of families bronze, in and need. three Serving thousand Orthodox seven children hundred from fifty throughout tons of iron. the United States, Saint 8 Basil Everyone Academy who continues owned to precious provide a stones caring also and spiritual donated environment them to the where temple they treasury, are able to where grow, Jehiel learn, and from the achieve. Levite clan of Gershon guarded them. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in 9 David and the people were very happy that so much had been given to the Lord, and they all celebrated. keeping with our Lord s command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ David and His Praises abundant the Lord and comforting love. 10 Saint Then, Basil in Academy front of everyone, is also a place David where sang the praises lives of to the the children Lord: and youth are guided in Christ. On the I beautiful praise you campus, forever, in a Lord! nurturing You environment are the God of our prayer ancestor and grace, Jacob[a] they are worshiped. led in the path of truth and 11 love. Your They power are shown is great, the and blessings your of glory the life is seen in Christ, everywhere how to follow in heaven His will and and on to earth. find strength You are and king assurance in world, His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. of the entire 12 This and sacred you rule work with was also strength the focus and power. of the patron You saint make of people the Academy, rich and Saint powerful Basil. and For the famous. sick, orphans, 13 travelers, We thank and many you, our others God, in need, and praise he offered you. an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior 14 But why should we be happy that we have given you these gifts? They belong to you, and we and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies have only given back what is already yours. Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the 15 cutting We of are the only Vasilopeta. foreigners We living are also here led by on Christ earth and for by a the while, example just as of Saint our ancestors Basil to fulfill were. the And command we will of soon our Lord be gone, and let like the a children shadow come that to suddenly me. In your disappears. ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are 16 called Our to Lord offer God, Him and we guide have others brought to an all encounter these things with for the Lord building that will a temple lead to to abundant honor you. and eternal They life. belong to On you, this and day may you we gave offer them our prayers to us. and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this 17 vital But work we to are children happy, and because youth in everyone fulfilling the has request voluntarily of our given Lord and you in these honoring things. the legacy You know of all who what have is in everyone s established and heart, supported and you this are ministry pleased in when the past people seventy are years. honest. May you also receive the abundant and rich 18 blessings Always of our make Lord us at the eager beginning to give, of this and new help year us as be we faithful offer Him to you, glory just and honor as our unto ancestors the ages Abraham, of ages! Isaac, and Jacob faithfully worshiped you. With paternal love in Christ, 19 And give Solomon the desire to completely obey your laws and teachings, and the desire to build DEMETRIOS the temple for which I have provided these gifts. Archbishop of America 20 David then said to the people, Now it s your turn to praise the Lord, the God your ancestors worshiped! So everyone praised the Lord, and they bowed down to honor him and David their king. GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 18

19 YOU WILL HELP THE KINGDOM COME ABOUT.. HOW? BY: MAKE(ING) LOVE YOUR AIM (1 Corinthians 14:1) 19

20 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY We ARE building, Tel: (212) in community, Fax: (212) God s Kingdom. Protocol Number 01/15 HERE January & 1, 2015 NOW!! Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Friendship Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Love Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, Fidelity the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and Affection spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. Ministry to those in Need This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command Ministry to let the to, children for, come & to by me. the This Youth is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence Ministry of Christ. to Moms In daily care, & in Dads counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ Ministry and His abundant to Couples and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing Ministry environment to those of prayer Wanting and grace, to they be are Educated led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. Ministry to those Dying This sacred work was also Ministry the focus of the to patron those saint in of Need the Academy, of Wellness Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth Ministry and love through to teaching Nurture and preaching, our Hellenic as a faithful Culture and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also Ministry our calling today. those In our support who for are Saint Addicted Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led Ministry by Christ and to by the example Aged of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are Ministry to those Seeking Re-Creation called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers Ministry and generous to support those for in Saint Sports Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America We are NOT building a mere building. We are offering: Prayer Peace And Above All Ministry of Services that Offer Praise, Thanks & Glory GREEK LANGUAGE TO OUR SCHOOL GOD! MINISTRY 20

21 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Protocol Number 01/15 Naming January Opportunity 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to Sts. me, and Constantine do not hinder them; & for Helen to such belongs Church, the kingdom WDC of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) Bookstore To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Brides the Day, Room Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Chapel Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the Classrooms sacred ministry of (10) our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues Community to provide a Center caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Cry Lord s Room command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, Hall (Small) and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, Great in a nurturing Stairs environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work Exonarthex was also focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This Narthex is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the Nave children Dome come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may Platea we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Tower 1 (Bell Tower) Tower 2 Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 21

22 ARTIFACTS & ICONOGRAPHY Opportunities for you to express your love for God by decorating His Holy Temple are now available. Please contact Father Michael to discuss how you can manifest your desire to help! We are greatly blessed to have world renown Leonidas Diamantopoulos as our Iconographer. He has written 49 churches here in the US with his God given talent. His work is available locally for you to see at St. Katherine, Falls Church, VA, Sts. Peter and Paul, Potomac, MD, Sts Constantine and Helen, Annapolis, MD. 22

23 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Protocol Number 01/15 January 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work was also the focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 23

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25 TODAY!! GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Protocol Number 01/15 January 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work was also the focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 25

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28 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Protocol Number 01/15 January 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work was also the focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 28

29 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) Protocol Number 01/15 January 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command to let the children come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work was also the focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 29

30 OLI MAZI! Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Churc h of Washington, DC Temporary Church Address: St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD Office Address: 701 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, MD Phone: (240) office@schgocdc.org Website: Rev. Michael Eaccarino, Presiding Priest Cell Phone: (301) & fm@papouli.net We welcome all visitors among us always! We hope you find our worship true and reverent and our people here friendly and cordial. If you are seeking a spiritual home, we would be honored by your presence in our family. We are glad you chose to worship with us today. ALTAR BOYS Joe Mayes joem1222@gmail.com STEWARDSHIP Sotirios Nasios snasios@yahoo.com GREEK LANGUAGE MINISTRY Ifigenia Kambanis agkambanis@msn.com Erini Iatrou eirini.iatrou@gmail.com OUTREACH MINISTRY Ms. Anastasia Kyritsopoulos (301) a.kyritsopoulos2@gmail.com CHOIR Dr. Theodore Papaloizos ted@greek123.com Jr. GOYA/Sr. GOYA Alexandra Pittas pittasa@verizon.net GREEK DANCE MINISTRY Elaine Romas eromas@verizon.net Kristina Maria Paspalis kmpaspalis@gmail.com YOUNG AT HEART Helen Thornberg bwt602r@aol.com Christina Clifton Christina.Clifton@verizon.net CATECHETICAL MINISTRY Tara Kavadias tarakavadias@yahoo.com Assisted By: Voula Vithoulkas voulavithoulkas@gmail.com YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY (YAL) Viktoria Taroudaki Victoria.taroudaki@gmail.com PHILOPTOCHOS Paraskevoula Hays voulaphilo@landmark.org HOPE & JOY Athanasia Raptis (301) Maria Poulakis maria.poulakis7@gmail.com 30

31 GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA 8-10 East 79th St. New York, NY Tel: (212) Fax: (212) YOUR PRIEST IS AVAILABLE TO YOU Protocol Number 24/7! 01/15 January 1, 2015 Feast of Saint Basil and New Year Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 19:14) Please call or text FM s cell phone ( ) or (fm@papouli.net) for anything you might need, including To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, appointments, the Day, Afternoon, questions and Church Schools, or any the Philoptochos special Sisterhoods, events. the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Fr. Michael: (301) Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, Ο ΙΕΡΕΥΣ youth, and families ΣΑΣ in need. ΕΙΝΑΙ Serving Orthodox ΣΤΗ children ΔΙΑΘΕΣΗ from throughout ΣΑΣ the United 24/7. States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve. Παρακαλώ να τον καλείτε στο κινητό τηλέφωνο για οτι This vital mission of Saint Basil Academy, carried out by the directors, staff, trustees and benefactors, is in keeping with our Lord s command θελετε. to let the Σας children ευχαριστούμε! come to me. This is accomplished through this ministry by bringing the love of Christ to those in need. Everything that is offered for the children and youth at Saint Basil s is offered in the name and presence of Christ. In daily care, in counseling and teaching, in recreation, and in worship, the students encounter Christ and His abundant and comforting love. Saint Basil Academy is also a place where the lives of the children and youth are guided in Christ. On the beautiful campus, in a nurturing environment of prayer and grace, they are led in the path of truth and love. They are shown the blessings of the life in Christ, how to follow His will and to find strength and assurance in His promises. They see the hope, joy, and power in a life of faith and a lifelong relationship with Him. This sacred work was also the focus of the patron saint of the Academy, Saint Basil. For the sick, orphans, travelers, and many others in need, he offered an encounter with Christ by taking His love to them. For others he guided them in truth and love through teaching and preaching, as a faithful and caring pastor, to their Savior and Redeemer. This is also our calling today. In our support for Saint Basil Academy, we are led by our Ladies Philoptochos Society and our local Philoptochos chapters in collecting an offering and in the celebration of the cutting of the Vasilopeta. We are also led by Christ and by the example of Saint Basil to fulfill the command of our Lord and let the children come to me. In your ministry in the parish and in your daily life in Christ, you are called to offer Him and guide others to an encounter with the Lord that will lead to abundant and eternal life. On this day may we offer our prayers and generous support for Saint Basil Academy. May we strengthen this vital work to children and youth in fulfilling the request of our Lord and in honoring the legacy of all who have established and supported this ministry in the past seventy years. May you also receive the abundant and rich blessings of our Lord at the beginning of this new year as we offer Him glory and honor unto the ages of ages! With paternal love in Christ, DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America GREEK LANGUAGE SCHOOL MINISTRY 31