Beheading of St. John the Baptist - August 29 Receive and Share the Light of Christ! Insert: August Calendar. Fr. Alex s Message 1

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1 August 2015 Fr. Alex s Message 1 Fr. Hector s Message 2 Focus on Philoptochos 3 Parish & Community News & Events 4-5 Kenya Mission Trip 6 AHEPA Scholarships 7 Pictures-Preschool, Summer Camp, Picnic 8-9 Bazaar Prep Schedule 11 Faithful Senior 12 Greek School/Stewardship 13 Spiritual Message/Greek 14 News & Events/Greek 15 Parish Council 16 Sponsors 17 Insert: August Calendar Beheading of St. John the Baptist - August 29 Receive and Share the Light of Christ!

2 ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA Phone: Fax: Website: Office Hours: Monday Friday, 8:00 AM 4:00 PM The Annunciator is the monthly newsletter of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Submissions for consideration are due the 15th of each month. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church is under the jurisdiction of: His Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholemew His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America His Eminence, Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Parish Administration Clergy Rev. Alexander Goussetis, Pastor Rev. Hector Firoglanis, Assistant Priest Rev. Alexander Veronis, Pastor Emeritus Parish Council Maria Querry, President John Stauffer, Vice President George Soukas, Treasurer Artemis Tsoflias, Secretary Keith Bartlett Kim Keares Peter S. Billis Tom Miller Manny Firoglanis Mary Sakellaris David Gammache Nicholas Veronis Helen Hazatones Donna Vitko Kaliopi Karomfily Jim Voulopos Board of Elders Dr. Spencer Phillips Constantine J. Kourgelis Dr. Olga Pratt Church Staff Cantors....Nicholas Belessis Nicholas Billis Jonathan Troop Ecclesiarch......John Scanlon Aaron Blain Lay Assistant......Maria Koursaris Building Supervisor.... David Gammache Office Administrator...Sherry Anderson Administrative Assistant.....Pat Hazatones Office Assistant Mary Keares Volunteer Office Assistants... Demetria Baker The Annunciator...Sherry Anderson Sunday Bulletin..Maria Koursaris Church Office Addresses Fr. Alexander Fr. Hector Fr. Alexander Sherry Maria David Sunday Worship Hours September - May 8:00 AM - Early Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM - Orthros/Matins 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy June - August 8:15 AM - Orthros 9:30 AM - Divine Liturgy Contacts Sunday School...Sally Stratigos Dan Soukas, Jonathan Troop Choir..Maria Koursaris Organist.....Zaferula Yelagotes Philoptochos....Christine Speros Helen Hazatones GOYA... Michael Efstration JOY Dance..Popi Herr, Tina Georges, Angie Hessen, Renate Keares GOYA Dance.. Despina Proithis Evzonakia Dance...Jenna Ioannidis Maria Attoni Greek School PTO...Robin Roumeliotis AHEPA.....Constantine J. Seiss Daughters of Penelope....Mary P.Morgan Zaferula Yelagotes Pan-Coan Society....Tasos Marinos Chiotiko Society...Panagiotis S. Billis Webmaster... Dimitri & Kim Keares Bazaar Committee..Kosta Kontanis Alexandra Schramm Bookstore.Paul & Kay Benos Service & Outreach Committee...Joanne Martin Susana Troop

3 Fr. Alexander Goussetis Message Discipline In Webster s Dictionary, the word discipline is defined as, training which corrects, molds, strengthens, or perfects. It is interesting that when the word discipline is applied in conjunction with the fields of sports or education, we express great admiration for disciplined people. Yet when we apply the term discipline in the context of the Christian faith, we are often met with skepticism or even derision. Ask ten Orthodox Christians about their opinion on fasting and you will receive twelve responses in return. Yet fasting is not an optional aspect of the Christian journey; it is a discipline that corrects, molds, strengthens, and perfects our faith. Don t simply take my word for it. Scripture reminds us that the root of the word discipline is disciple, implying that to be a disciple of Christ requires discipline. Even more persuasively, St. Paul highlights in his letter to the Galatians that the fruit of the Holy Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. That s right! To abide in the Holy Spirit means to live a life of discipline and self-control. The discipline of fasting is not meant to punish or withhold God s blessings. Instead, it leads us to appreciate God s bounty even more. Fasting provides balance and perspective in one s daily life. Combined with prayer, acts of charity, and participation in the sacramental life of the Church, fasting brings the mind, body, and soul into unity. With the Dormition fast upon us (August 1-14), we are again invited to apply the teachings and practices of our faith. Commit to the discipline of fasting as instructed by the Church. Do not limit this fast to food, but fasting from gossip, harsh language, sinful activities, and selfish ideals. Instead, feed yourself: a) by attending one of the nightly Paraklesis services, b) with spiritual reading, c) with a visit to someone in need, d) with more family time, and e) by the counting of blessings from our merciful and loving God. The investment that we make in living a disciplined Christian life will provide phenomenal returns in how we view ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we can invite God into our daily lives. The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 1

4 Fr. Hectors Message What Makes Jesus Angry There is a unique icon at the Monastery of Vatopedi on Mt. Athos, which depicts the Virgin Mary pulling away the hand of the Christ-child from her mouth. The hand positions and expressions of the icon changed miraculously and permanently when the following strange miracle occurred on January 21, 807. Pirates had secretly landed on the shore of the monastery and were hiding, waiting for the gates to open in the morning in order to launch an attack on the monastery of Vatopedi. The Abbot, who had remained behind after the end of Matins in order to continue his prayer, heard these words from the icon of the Blessed Virgin: "Do not open the gates of the Monastery today, but go up on the walls and drive away the pirates." As he turned to look, he saw the Theotokos turned towards her right shoulder and looking at him, while the Holy Child was stretching out His hand to cover the mouth of His mother saying, "No, Mother, do not watch over this sinful and unrepentant flock; let them fall under the sword of the pirates and be punished as they deserve." But the Virgin Mary, taking her Son's hand in hers and turning her head a little to free her mouth, repeated the same words of warning to the Abbot. The monks, miraculously saved from the pirates, gave thanks to the Theotokos and named the icon "Paramythia", which means "calming down" or "restrain. The idea of needing to calm down or restrain our all-merciful and compassionate Lord Jesus Christ may sound strange to us, but there are instances in the Gospels where Jesus expresses righteous anger. Cleansing the temple Matthew 21:12-17 Addressing the Pharisees Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! (Matt. 23). Healing the man with the withered hand He looked at them (Pharisees) with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, Stretch out your hand (Mark 3). Of course God is love (1 John 4:8), but we all know that true love is not apathetic. God is supremely concerned for the eternal salvation of each and every human soul. The careless monks of Vatopedi, the greedy merchants of the Temple, and the self-righteous Pharisees all have something to teach us: an unrepentant heart incites the anger of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love (Psalm 103:8). Let us not test our Lord s compassion and incite His righteous anger with an unrepentant heart that grows bold in sinning. Rather, let us strive like Peter, when he wept bitterly for his denial; and the harlot who shed tears upon his feet; and the Publican; and the Prodigal (Holy Confession prayer) to offer our broken and contrite heart (Psalm 50), which is accepted with mercy and tender love by our Lord Jesus Christ not like a hardened and unrepentant heart which is met with righteous anger. The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 2

5 Philoptochos PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS Thank you members! Thanks to all our dedicated and capable members for another outstanding year of philanthropy and service! It is due to your time, talent and efforts that we successfully disburse thousands of dollars to a variety of charities on the local, metropolis, national and international levels. See you in the fall! 2016 During the coming year, we will need hostesses for the months of February (daytime meeting), March and April. Please notify Christine Speros or Helen Hazatones if you would like to volunteer to be a hostess. Pictures from our May dinner meeting at Gus s Keystone Family Restaurant Keeping you posted: Next Meeting: September Dinner Meeting! Tuesday, September 8, :00 PM Philoptochos Hall We are pleased to have the Souvlaki Boys cater our dinner. Price $15 Check Payable to Philoptochos Society Payment can be given to Joanne or Effie, or mail your check to the church office. Please RSVP by Thursday, Sept. 3rd to: Joanne Martin, or Effie Hogan, We hope you are having a nice summer. We look forward to a very productive year! For I was hungry and you gave Me Food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me. - Matthew 25:35-36,40 The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 3

6 Parish News SACRAMENTS ALTAR CANDLES & FLOWERS BAPTISM As many as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ. Alleluia. June 7 Vasilios, child of George and Lambrynee Maillis. Godparent is Panagiotis Gourlias. July 12 Calista, child of David and E.J. Schrott. Godparent is Alexandra Diamantoni. July 25 David, child of Daniel & Jacqueline Eyster. Godparents are John & Delia Swords. DEATHS I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live (John 11:25) June 12 Nicholas Bubernak, (41 yrs.) THANKS The family of Nicholas Bubernak would like to thank all parishioners for their expression of kindness, sympathy and memorial donations sent in memory of our son and brother. Carole Harvan-Griffith, David, Vanessa, Tatiana & Natasha Bubernak Altar Candles June 21 In loving memory of Father Nicholas Frangakis by Mary & George Sexton. June 28 For the Glory of God, anonymously. July 12 July 19 July 26 For the glory of God, anonymously. In honor of the name day of husband and father, Elias Kambouroglos by his family. In loving memory of daughter Pamela and husband Paul. Altar Flowers.. June 21 In loving memory of Father Nicholas Frangakis by Mary & George Sexton. July 19 In loving memory of Charles Hogan by Effie. July 26 In loving memory of Nicholas Bubernak by his parents, brother David and family. Candelabra Candles June 28 Anonymously for the Glory of God. Sunday School Meeting August 27, Thursday, 7:00 PM : Meeting for all Sunday School teachers and assistants. Barbara Valavanes expresses gratitude to all for the care and concern of so many following her recent illness and hospitalization. Assistant teachers are still needed for the year. If you are interested, please contact Sally Stratigos at Service and Outreach Meals & visitation were provided for a parish family through an online meal schedule from April 21 - May 20 and again June 22 -July 10. Thank you for your generous hearts! Newly elected GOYA officers Congratulations to our newly elected GOYA officers for ! Upcoming community meals at Crispus Attucks: Saturday, October 3: GOYA Saturday, November 21: Kambouroglos family Any family or parish organization interested in providing a meal, please let us know. Plans for food, blanket and winter clothing drive in October. Also planning another day retreat to Saint Thekla Monastery in September or October. President: Vice President: Treasurer: Recording Secretary: Corresponding Secretary: Historian: Basketball Chairs: Soccer Chairs: Emmanuel Marinos Eleni Marinos Kali Efstration Katerina Vassil Alexander Proithis Zoe Walling Stephan Gerovasilis Sophia Goussetis Nicholas Madonis Gabrielle Kambouroglos The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 4

7 PARISH NEWS / SPITITUAL LIFE GOYA ZHTO DANCE GROUP - On behalf of the GOYA ZHTO Dance group, we would like to express our gratitude to the Hellenic Culture Committee, AHEPA, and Daughters of Penelope for their generous donation toward the purchase of the traditional Greek folk dance costumes. - The GOYA ZHTO Dance Group is kicking off its brand new year Sunday, August 30th. Anyone in grades 7-12 who is interested, enthusiastic and committed to learning Greek dance, please join us at that time! For more information, contact Despina Proithis at despinoula@comcast.net. PILGRIMAGE TO HOLY TRANSFIGURATION MONASTERY Fr. Alex Goussetis will be leading a pilgrimage to Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Ellwood City, PA from September If you are interested in participating please contact Fr. Alex at the church office and submit a check for $70, made out to Annunciation Church. Due to the limited monastery guest quarters only seven spots are available. Young Adults Bible Study This group, led by Fr. Hector serves the Young Adults of our parish. Wednesday, August 19, 6:30 PM Women s Orthodox Study Group This group, led by Presvytera Lisa Goussetis, meets every other Thursday of the month. Book studies and video presentations are offered. Child care available. August - none scheduled College Fellowship (OCF) This weekly group, led by Fr. Hector serves the college students of Franklin & Marshall and Millersville University. Will Resume in the Fall Women s Bible Study This group, led by Presvytera Pearl Veronis, meets weekly on Tuesday mornings. Bible Studies and other resources are used for inspiration and education of the Orthodox faith. August - none scheduled Early Risers Group This weekly group meets at 6:30AM each Thursday. Fr. Goussetis leads the group in the reading of Orthodox books and the viewing of various instructional videos on the faith. Will resume in the Fall AGAPE Bible Study This monthly group, led by Fr. Veronis, offers a fellowship and study in the Greek language. Refreshments will be offered by the Women s Bible Study group. August - none scheduled Orthodox/Mennonite Dialogue This monthly group, led by Fr. Goussetis, is an unofficial Orthodox-Mennonite dialogue and study group. Readings and discussions on the two traditions are shared by members of the Mennonite & Orthodox faiths. August - none scheduled Orthodox Study Group This group meets twice monthly on Saturday mornings. The group is led by Fr. Veronis and focuses on Bible passages and readings on the Orthodox faith. August none scheduled The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 5

8 Mission trip Mission Experience of Daniel & Aaron Blain Nakaalei (Kenya) is unlike any place you have ever been before. There are no paved streets; there s no electricity, no running water, no modern amenities of any kind. The closest modern town is a three hour drive across the desert. All the houses are made of sticks and mud. The ground is pure sand, with very little vegetation. Goats roam freely and occasionally a heard of camels comes through. The people here entertain themselves with dances and storytelling and they often gather around a fire at night just to enjoy each other s company. The village of Nakaalei is in the heart of the tribal Turkana region in northwest Kenya. In early June my brother Aaron and I had the amazing opportunity to travel there with a team from the Orthodox Christian Mission Center. Aaron and I, alongside six other team members from America served the Orthodox Church Community of Saint Peter. Orthodoxy is very new to this area. It was introduced by three local community members about five years ago. One of them, Fr. Zachariah was our host in Nakaalei. After two days of travel and a short stay at the Makarios III Theological School in Nairobi, we arrived in Nakaalei. Nakaalei is extremely hot and dry. During the day temperatures can reach 115 degrees Fahrenheit and at night they drop to a cool 90 degrees. The average rainfall for the year is less than ten inches. It is almost impossible to grow crops, so the Turkana people herd goats and camels. They live a tribal lifestyle, simple and close to the earth. The men wear a shirt and a blanket to cover their legs. The women wear bright colored necklaces that cover their entire necks and they use colorful cloths as dresses. The purpose of our trip was to help construct a two-room schoolhouse for the new Saint Peter Church community. When we arrived, the foundation was already laid. Our job was to help the local contractors build four eight foot walls. We had to carry blocks weighing about forty pounds each and put them in place where they would be used to build the sturdy walls. We also had to cure other blocks by pouring water on them so they wouldn t crack in the blistering heat. By the end of our trip we had accomplished our goal of building four sturdy walls and the building was ready for roof trusses. It was the responsibility of local contractors, called Fundies, to stay on site for another two weeks to finish the trusses and put a roof on the building. Up until our trip, school was held outside under trees. Now that a permanent school structure exists, the government will help sponsor a secondary school in the area. Our daily routine gave us a rare look into a much simpler way of life. It seemed more connected to nature and God. We rose with the sun and we settled down with the sun. We sat on the ground for our meals and slept outside under the stars. As we lived out this daily routine, I was humbled both physically and spiritually: physically because I saw how weak my body really was. I was sore from sleeping on the ground and I got sick for a day from something I ate. Spiritually I was humbled because I saw I was not taking prayers seriously. In the comforts of my own home it is easy to go through the motions but out there I was stripped of those worldly comforts. The conditions in Nakaalei are extremely harsh, and it took a couple of days to get adjusted, but it soon felt like a second home. It was the community that made it so welcoming. During our stay in Nakaalei, we met several people and learned about their lives. I struck up a friendship with one of our guards. His name was Jackson. Even though our ability to speak with one another was limited, he spoke to me through his gentle disposition. I realized he was a living example of the Orthodox ethos. He was gentle, loving and kind, but when the situation called for it, he was bold, brave, and strong. He is not the only one, he represents the ethos of the Turkana people. My experience on this trip to Turkana was like a miniature Great Lent. It was humbling and at times a struggle, but I came back with a deeper understanding of God and the Church. I felt how empty prayer is when I went through the motions. Something I was not fully able to grasp in the comforts of my home. I witnessed how simplicity in the Turkana lifestyle has led to a genuine Orthodox ethos. It was another reminder of how important simplicity is in my own life The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 6

9 AHEPA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS June 9, Red Rose AHEPA No. 71 Honors Scholarship Recipients Annually, the Red Rose Chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) recognizes its scholarship award recipients. This year, the committee selected a record nine students to be recipients of scholarships. At the annual meeting held at Gus s Keystone Family Restaurant, Scholarship Committee Chairman George Ioannidis announced the nine scholarship recipients as he challenged them to go forth, pursue their dreams, follow their instincts and do it with compassion. Jamison Vulopas is the son of Joe and Melissa Vulopas. He is a graduate of Warwick High School. He is a volunteer, advocate and board member of National Center for the Prevention of Youth Suicide and Aevidum. Jamison is class president at Warwick and very involved in National Honor Society and Tri-M National Music Honor Society. This fall he will attend the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Katina Jones is the daughter of Mike and Melissa Jones and grand-daughter of Jim Ziogas. She is a graduate of Penn Manor High School. Katina has a great number of academic honors, been involved in the greater community and her school. She achieved many scholastic tennis distinctions, including: District 3 AAA champion (2014), LL Leagues all-star (4x), three-year state qualifier and USTA Top Ranked Girls 18 player in She will be attending West Chester to study cell and molecular biology. Theodore Granbois is the son of Mike and Kathy Granbois. Theodore is a 2015 graduate of Hempfield High School. He is an avid hockey and baseball player and very active in the local community. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Society for Academic Excellence in Foreign Languages. He will be attending Lafayette College this fall and plans to major in engineering. Daniel Blain, the son of Edward and Tena Blain is a graduate of Conestoga Valley High School and is currently enrolled in Harrisburg Area Community College and studying to be a tradesman and eventually become a construction manager. He will be attending the Pennsylvania College of Technology. He is unable to attend as he is on a mission trip in Kenya he has done several such trips to Mexico with our Church in the past. Christina Karomfily is the daughter of Michael and Kali Karomfily. She is a 2015 graduate of Hempfield High School. She will be attending Villanova University this fall to study nursing. She is involved in a variety of activities, in school (theater/drama, Anchor club), church (GOYA, Oratorical Festival participant and dance group), and a participant in the AHEPAcademy in Washington DC. Michael Efstration is the son of Gary and Angie Efstration. He is a graduate of Manheim Township High School. He has been a 4-year varsity swim team member and senior captain and participated on the track team. He is a volunteer with GOYA (as well as President this year) and has participated in the Project Mexico outreach. He volunteers at the Holy Protection Monastery and was a participant at CrossRoad in Boston. Michael will attend St. Joseph s University and major in business administration. Nicholas Goussetis is the son of Father Alex and Presvytera Lisa Goussetis. He is a graduate of Hempfield High School. He is GOYA Vice-president, serves in the Altar, and volunteers at Crispus Attucks while achieving superior honors throughout his academic career at Hempfield. Nicholas has also participated in Project Mexico outreach & CrossRoad Program. He will be attending Penn State University to major in supply chain management business. Emmanuel Kambouroglos is the son of Thomas and Cathy Kambouroglos. Emmanuel just finished his freshman year at the University of Pittsburgh where he is in the pre-med program with a major in neuroscience and psychology. He is active in the Men s Glee Club, Medical Student Assoc. and participates in intramural soccer and basketball. He is a volunteer with FOCUS ministries and was named to the Dean s List this fall. Kristian Voulopos is the son of Steve and Wendy Voulopos. He is a graduate of Hempfield High School and just finished his freshman year at Shippensburg University, where he is studying to become a dentist. He is on the swim team at Ship and has several records to his name at High School that garnered the attention of the Raiders. He was named to the Dean s List in the fall. At the conclusion of the presentations, President Constantine Seiss thanked the program sponsors for their support of the scholarship program and wished the students great success in their future work. The Red Rose AHEPA members are extremely proud of the work ethic shown by these young women and men in their academic and service work. The scholarships presented this year represent the highest total awarded in a single year of $5,500. This scholarship program has successfully recognized students for over 30 years in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Community and is open to any student who is an active member of the Church regardless of affiliation with the AHEPA. The mission of the AHEPA family is to promote the ancient Greek ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility and family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism. AHEPA was established in 1922 by visionary Greek-Americans to protect all from prejudice from the KKK. In its history, AHEPA has joined with the NAACP and B'nai B'rith International to fight discrimination. It has grown to become the largest membership-based association for Hellenic-Americans and Philhellenes in the world. For more information about AHEPA, or how to join, please contact AHEPA Headquarters, , or visit Ou pa we gro The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 7

10 PRESCHOOL GRADUATION 2015/PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMP The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 8

11 CHURCH PICNIC The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 9

12 Preschool The Preschool at the ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH Educating the Whole Child! The Preschool of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church is dedicated to the nurture and growth of each child promoting positive learning experiences that foster self-confidence, inner discipline, curiosity, creativity, independence and respect, though the wisdom and practices of the Orthodox Christian faith OPEN Enrollment! 4 Year Old/Pre-K Curriculum Monday Wednesday Friday 9:00 AM 12:00 Noon 3 Year Old Curriculum Tuesday Thursday 9:00 AM-12:00 Noon School is back in session on Monday, September 14 Our mission is to nurture and teach our precious ones in a spirit of holiness according to the precepts of our Orthodox Christian faith and prepare them for Kindergarten in keeping with the appropriate guidelines and expectations of the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Applicants will be admitted on a first-come, first served basis. Enrollment is open to the greater community including non-parishioners. Forms are available online or at the church office. Our objective is to allow each child the opportunity to master the appropriate skills needed for school readiness in a cognitively and spiritually rich, age appropriate environment. Our vision is, with the Grace of God, to provide a loving and caring Preschool community through worship, education and fellowship. The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 10

13 2015 Bazaar Preparation Schedule Bazaar preparation schedule Diples Tiropites & Spanakopites Yiaprakia (frozen) Koulourakia Sept & Oct Mon, Sept 14 Noon (Filling Prep) Tue, Sept 15 8:30 AM TO 6:00 PM Wed, Sept 23 2:00 PM (Starting Earlier) Thu, Sept 24 9:00 AM Wed, Sept 30 5:00 PM Thu, Oct 1 9:00 AM NO BAKING/COOKING WEEK Oct 5-9 Kourambiethes Mousaka Baklava Finikia (ONLY One Baking Day) Syrup, Balkava Bread Kneading Bread Baking Yiaprakia Macaroni Prep Hamburger Prep Cream Sauce Pastitsio Karithopita & Ravani Chicken Sauce Prep Salad Dressing Hall Setup (tables & chairs) Rice Pudding Hall Set-up (decorations) Greek Bazaar Wed, Oct 14 5:00 PM Thu, Oct 15 9:00 AM Fri, Oct 16 5:00 PM Sat, Oct 17 9:00 AM Put away 6:00 PM Wed, Oct 21 5:00 PM Thu, Oct 21 9:00 AM Thu, Oct 29 9:00 AM - Baking Thu, Oct 29 Noon - Packing Sat, Oct 31 11:00 AM Sun, Nov 1 7:00 PM Mon, Nov 2 9AM Mon, Nov 2 Noon Tue, Nov 3 9:00 AM Mon, Nov 2 6:00 PM Tue, Nov 3 5:00 PM Wed, Nov 4 6:00 AM Wed, Nov 4 9:00 AM Thu, Nov 5 9:00 AM Thu, Nov 5 6:00 PM Thu, Nov 5 evening Thu, Nov 5 evening Fri, Nov 6 9:00 AM Fri, Nov 6 All Day Sat, Nov 7 11 am to 7:30 pm Sun, Nov 8 11 am to 6 pm The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 11

14 Fa i t h f u l S e n i o r s OUR FAITHFUL SENIORS Our faithful seniors appreciate a visit, a phone call, a letter or card, our prayers, a gesture to show they are remembered and loved. Arvanitas, Mary Manor Care 100 Abbeyville Road, Rm 29 Lancaster, PA Bahas, Eleni Conestoga View Southwest -Room East King Street Lancaster, PA Baxewanis, Angelica Country Meadows 1380 Elm Avenue, Apt. 44 Lancaster, PA Carthage, Helen & Nicholas Brethren Village FC Lititz Pike Lancaster, PA Davis, Helen Country Meadows 1380 Elm Avenue Rm. 208 Lancaster, PA Dontis, Venice Moravian Manor 300 W. Lemon Street Lititiz, PA Francos, Dorothy Lancashire Hall 2829 Lititz Pike, Rm. 221A Lancaster, PA Francos, Esther Mennonite Home Reed Run-Rm. 322A 1520 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster PA Georgeadis, Betsy 312 Harvest Drive Lititz, PA Gianopoulos, Andrew & Mary 120 Joseph Road Lancaster, PA Gianopoulos, Nick & Stella Masonic Village 499 Freemason Drive-Apt Elizabethtown PA Hazangeles, Harry Arbor View 211 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA Hosan, Valentine Long Community at Highland 600 E. Roseville Road, Apt 2414 Lancaster, PA Kauffman, Ronald Country Meadows 1380 Elm Ave., Rm. 321 Lancaster, PA Kepchar, Stephen Homestead Village 1800 Village Circle Lancaster, PA Komis, Anna Conestoga View 900 East King Street-Rm. 404 Lancaster, PA Mavraganis, Helen Homestead Village 1800 Village Circle, Apt. 116 Lancaster, PA Mylonas, Nicholas Friendship Home 128 West Main Street Mountville, PA Nafpliotis, Harry Willow Valley, Lakeside Rm Willow Valley Lakes Drive Willow Street, PA Panagiotakos, Anna 30 Springhouse Road Lancaster, PA Papademetriou, Barbara Mennonite Home Lititz Run 223-A 1520 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA Prokopios, Konti 78 Delp Road Lancaster, Pa Sexton, George & Mary 28 Meadow Lane PO Box 61 Smoketown, PA Simpson, Vasa 703 Wyncroft Terrace, Apt. 9 Lancaster, PA Theros, William & Dorothy Brethren Village - Fieldcrest 3001 Lititz Pike, Apt. L269 Lancaster, PA Valavanes, Barbara Mennonite Home, Boyers Run, Rm Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA Vassil, Doukeni Country Meadows 1380 Elm Avenue, Rm. 315 Lancaster, PA Vlassis, Wallace Brethren Village Courtyard Rm Lititz Pike Lancaster, PA Wieler, Helen Angelos Mennonite Home 304 Meadow Run 1520 Harrisburg Pike Lancaster, PA Zervanos, Alex Evergreen Estates Retirement Community 1300 E. King Street Lancaster, PA The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 12

15 Three Hierarchs Greek School/Stewardship Enrollment is now open for ! Pre-K to 6th level Tuition: $190 for 1st child $170 for 2nd & 3rd child First day! Wednesday, September 16 at 5 PM For further information and registration please contact Maria Koursaris. Scholarships available! Please contact Fr. Alexander Goussetis or Maria Koursaris. STEWARDSHIP NEWS Your stewardship is up to date and on track to reach your goal Instead of having to catch up to achieve your stewardship commitment, consider signing up for automatic withdrawals and the work will be done for you! Which direction are you going?? Perhaps you have fallen behind because of summer travel. Check your statement that was mailed in July to see if you are on track. No pledge for 2015? There is still time! The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 13

16 Spiritual Message in Greek Συνομιλώντας με τον Γέροντα Εφραίμ τον Αριζονίτη Μάϊος 2014, Αριζόνα Από agiotokos-kappadokia.gr Γέροντας ΕΦΡΑΙΜ: Βλέπετε την φωτογραφία αυτή του Γέροντα Ιωσήφ, του Ησυχαστή. Είχα μεγάλο Γέροντα, ήταν πυρ πυρ, άνθρωπος φαινόμενο. Όλο τα επουράνια σκέπτονταν, μ αυτά ζούσε. Δύο λέξεις μας έλεγε συνεχώς, υπομονή, υπομονή και προσευχή και εδώ μας βοηθάει, όσο του επιτρέπει η Πρόνοια του Θεού. Σαν υποτακτικοί του, ποτέ δεν μαλώσαμε μεταξύ μας. Άλλοι απέξω μας δημιουργούσαν προβλήματα, συκοφαντούσαν τον Γέροντα, τον κατηγορούσαν, αλλά ο Γέροντας Ιωσήφ έλεγε, «αυτοί ας λένε, εμείς να μην πούμε». Συνομιλήτρια: Εμείς Γέροντα, είμαστε πολύ αδύνατοι σε όλα. Τι θα γίνει με εμάς; Γέροντας ΕΦΡΑΙΜ: Άλλα χρόνια είναι τώρα. Άλλα τα κριτήρια του Θεού, για σήμερα. Ο Γέροντας Ιωσήφ είχε το πνευματικό πανεπιστήμιο. Εγώ είμαι ευχαριστημένος να είστε εσείς (..δηλαδή τα πνευματικά του παιδιά ) στο πνευματικό λύκειο. Σήμερα υπάρχει τέτοια πνευματική σύγχυση. Μεγάλος ανεμοστρόβιλος παρασέρνει τα πάντα. Κρατείστε γερά την παράδοση που σας παρέδωσα και να ξέρετε ότι σήμερα είναι ομολογία να λέμε ότι ο Ιησούς Χριστός είναι ο Θεός μας. Αυτό δεν το θέλουν οι σκοτεινές δυνάμεις. Συνομιλήτρια: Γέροντα, μετά από τόσα χρόνια αγώνα, τι σας έμεινε μέσα στη ψυχή σας; Γέροντας ΕΦΡΑΙΜ: Όλα είναι δεύτερα, όλα δεύτερα. Το πρώτο είναι το όνομα του Χριστού μας και τώρα, περνώντας τα χρόνια, είδα στη πράξη, ότι μόνο με την αγάπη κερδίζεται ο άνθρωπος. Η ζωή μου ήταν κόπος και πόνος, με την φτώχεια, με τους Γερμανούς, με την πείνα στη κατοχή, με τους πειρασμούς και τις θλίψεις στα μοναστήρια. Μεγάλος αγώνας. Μόνο το όνομα του Χριστού και της Παναγίας μας μ έβγαλε πέρα. Όποιος άνθρωπος δεν λέγει καθημερινά το όνομα του Χριστού και της Παναγίας μας, δεν είναι Χριστιανός. Συνομιλήτρια: Δηλαδή η ευχή του Χριστού είναι το μέγιστο; Γέροντας ΕΦΡΑΙΜ: Βεβαίως, γιατί είμαστε συνέχεια με τη μνήμη του Χριστού μας. Οι Άγιοι Πατέρες φωτίστηκαν και μας άφησαν αυτές τις προσευχούλες. Τρία και δύο γράμματα, «Κύριε Ιησού Χριστέ, ελέησον ημάς» και «Υπεραγία Θεοτόκε, σώσον ημάς». Δεν είναι να διαβάσουμε εγκυκλοπαίδειες, ούτε πολλά βιβλία. Μ αυτές τις δύο προσευχούλες, σωζόμαστε όλοι οι Χριστιανοί. Οι μοναχοί που δεν έχουν τις μέριμνες των κοσμικών, προσεύχονται πολύ και φθάνουν ψηλά. Τους βοηθάει πολύ και η Παναγία μας. Είναι σαν να μιλούν στο αυτί του Χριστού μας, γιατί είναι αφοσιωμένοι στη προσευχή και αυτό είναι το κύριο έργο τους και όποιος έχει το δώρο της προσευχής στη καρδιά του, όταν πεθάνει δεν τον αγγίζουν τα τελώνια. Πηγαίνει μετά τον θάνατό του, κατευθείαν στο Χριστό μας. Δεν έχει εμπόδια, γιατί το όνομα του Χριστού έχει δύναμη. Είναι πυρ ο Θεός. Συνομιλήτρια: Σήμερα πάσχουμε από απελπισία και ανυπομονησία. Γέροντας ΕΦΡΑΙΜ: Η απελπισία είναι πάντα από τον διάβολο και όποιος απελπίζεται χάνει τις δυνάμεις του. Η βάση της ζωής μας είναι η υπομονή. Όταν δεν την έχουμε διαλύεται η ζωή μας. The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 14

17 News and Events in Greek ΜΥΣΤΗΡΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ ΜΑΣ ΒΑΠΤΙΣΕΙΣ: Όσοι εις Χριστόν εβαπτίσθητε, Χριστόν ενεδύσασθε. Αλληλούϊα» 7 Ιουνίου: Βασίλειος, υιός Γεωργίου και Λαμπρινής Μαίλλη με ανάδοχο τον Παναγιώτη Γουργλία. 2 Ιουλίου: Καλίστα, θυγατέρα αβίδ και Ελισάβετ Σριοττ με ανάδοχο την Αλεξάνδρα ιαμαντώνη. 25 Ιουλίου: αβίδ, υιός Ντάνιελ και Τζάκληνς Εηστερ με ανάδοχους τον Ιωάννη και την Ντίλια Σωρτς. ΚΗ ΕΙΑ: «Εγώ είμαι η οδός και η αλήθεια και η ζωή»: 12 Ιουνίου: Νικολάου Μπούπερνακ ΙΕΡΕΣ ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΙΕΣ ΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΥ ΠΑΡΑΚΛΗΣΕΙΣ ΕΚΑΠΕΝΤΑΥΓΟΥΣΤΟΥ: 7:00 μμ ευτέρα, 3 Αυγούστου Τρίτη, 4 Αυγούστου Παρασκευή, 7 Αυγούστου ευτέρα, 10 Αυγούστου Τρίτη, 11 Αυγούστου Τετάρτη, 12 Αυγούστου Πέμπτη, 13 Αυγούστου ΕΣΠΕΡΙΝΟΣ ΜΕΤΑΜΟΡΦΩΣΕΩΣ Τετάρτη, 5 Αυγούστου στις 7:00 μμ ΟΡΘΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ ΜΕΤΑΜΟΡΦΩΣΕΩΣ 9-11:00 πμ: Πέμπτη, 6 Αυγούστου ΕΣΠΕΡΙΝΟΣ ΚΟΙΜΗΣΕΩΣ ΤΗΣ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ Παρασκευή, 14 Αυγούστου στις 7:00 μμ ΟΡΘΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ ΚΟΙΜΗΣΕΩΣ 9-11:00 πμ: Σάββατο, 15 Αυγούστου ΟΡΘΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑ ΑΠΟΤΟΜΗΣ ΚΕΦΑΛΗΣ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΙΩΑΝΝΟΥ ΤΟΥ ΠΡΟ ΡΟΜΟΥ 9-11:00 πμ: Σάββατο, 29 Αυγούστου ΕΣΠΕΡΙΝΟΣ: Σάββατο 1, 22 & 29 Αυγούστου ΑΠΟΛΥΤΙΚΙΟ ΚΟΙΜΗΣΕΩΣ ΤΗΕ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ Ήχος ά Εν τη Γεννήσει την παρθενίαν εφύλαξας, εν τη Κοιμήσει τον κόσμον ου κατέλιπες Θεοτόκε. Μετέστης προς την ζωήν, μήτηρ υπάρχουσα της ζωής, και ταις πρεσβείαις ταις σαις λυτρουμένη, εκ θανάτου τας ψυχάς ημών. Πνευματικές συμβουλές Αγίου Παϊσίου Να ζείτε στο κλίμα της διαρκούς δοξολογίας και ευχαριστίας του Θεού. Η μεγαλύτερη αμαρτία είναι η αχαριστία. Γνωρίζω ότι ο φύλακας 'Αγγελος που έχουμε, μας προστατεύει και μας οδηγεί. 'Οταν προσευχόμαστε για κάποιον, ο 'Αγγελός μας αστραπιαία μπορεί να βοηθήσει, να πληροφορήσει, να φυλάξει αυτόν για τον οποίο προσευχόμαστε. Πρέπει κι εμείς να αγωνιζόμαστε. Τους βλέπετε τους ποδηλάτες που αγωνίζονται με την καρδιά τους και δεν γυρίζουν ποτέ πίσω; Ο τελευταίος βλέπει τον πρώτο. Κι όλος αυτός ο κόπος για να πάρουν ένα άδειο κύπελο. Ο Χριστιανός σώζεται μόνον με την πρακτική εφαρμογή των εντολών του Θεού και όχι με τη θεωρητική ενασχόληση περί τα θεία. 'Οταν ένας άνθρωπος ή ένα σύνολο ανθρώπων έχη αγωνιστικό πνεύμα, αυτό πολύ βοηθάει. Γιατί. Οταν ένας προχωράη πνευματικά, δεν ωφελεί μόνον τον εαυτό του, αλλά βοηθάει και τον άλλον που τον βλέπει... Στην πνευματική ζωή δεν θα βάλη κανείς για πρότυπο τους κοσμικούς αλλά τους αγίους... Σήμερα μέσα στους τόσους κινδύνους που ζή ο άνθρωπος, ο Θεός τον φυλάει όπως η μάνα το μικρό παιδί, όταν αρχίζει να περπατάει. Τώρα μας βοηθούν πιο πολύ ο Χριστός, η Παναγία, οι 'Αγιοι, αλλά δεν το καταλαβαίνουμε. Πού θα ήταν ο κόσμος, άν δεν βοηθούσαν!.. Και το κακό που πάει να κάνει το ταγκαλάκι, ο Θεός το αξιοποιεί και βγάζει μεγάλο καλό. 'Οσο απομακρύνονται οι άνθρωποι από την φυσική ζωή, την απλή, και ρποχωρούν στην πολυτέλεια, αυξάνουν και το ανθρώπινο άγχος. Και όσο προχωρεί η κοσμική ευγένεια, τόσο χάνεται και η απλότητα, η χαρά και το φυσικό ανθρώπινο χαμόγελο. 'Οποιος κουράζεται για τον πλησίον του, από καθαρή αγάπη, ξεκουράζεται με την κούραση. Ενώ εκείνος που αγαπάει τον εαυτό του και τεμπελιάζει, κουράζεται και με το να κάθεται. The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 15

18 Parish Council Meeting Minutes Members in Attendance: President Maria Querry, Artemis Tsoflias, George Soukas, John Stauffer, James Voulopos, Fr. Hector Firoglanis, Peter S. Billis,, Kim Keares, Olga Pratt, Spencer Phillips, Mary Sakellaris, Manny Firoglanis, Keith Bartlett, David Gammache, Tom Miller, Nicholas Veronis, Helen Hazatones, Fr. Alexander Goussetis Members Absent: Constantine J. Kourgelis (NP), Kaliopi Karomfily (E), Donna Vitko (NP) Opening Prayer: The May 19, 2015 meeting of the Parish Council began at 7:34 PM with an opening prayer by Fr. Alexander Goussetis. President Maria Querry brought the meeting to order at 7:37 PM. Minutes of Last Meeting: The minutes of the April 28, 2015 meeting were reviewed. They were approved by Dr. Tom Miller and seconded by Peter Billis. Sharing the Faith: Father Alexander Goussetis shared a video called Millennials and Religion. Financial Report: Treasurer, George Soukas reported that we are ahead of this time last year. Volunteers for investment committee is headed by Jim Voulopos. John Stauffer, George Soukas, Keith Bartlett, and Kali Karomfily volunteered. Mary Sakellaris requested to review the Endowment Fund Guidelines. The Endowment Fund Guidelines were approved by Mary and seconded by Tom Miller April Actual 2015 April Budget Income 359, , Expenses 239, , Increase in Fund Balance $119, $104, Committee Reports Finance: No report. Hellenic Culture: No report. Bazaar: No report. Gyrofest: $26,000 has been collected thus far. An update will be given at the next meeting. Parish Activities: A volunteer sheet was distributed for the church picnic on Sunday, June 7, Personnel: No report. Preschool: The Preschool is excited to have raised over $4,700 at this year s Indoor Yard Sale. We thank everyone who donated their unwanted treasures and their time. This is the preschool s largest fundraiser and provides improvements in the program and facility. All remaining clothing was donated to the Lancaster Council of Churches and the items to the Hospice upcoming auction. Property: David Gammache made a motion to hire an appraisal company to appraise the church contents. The last appraisal was con ducted in Helen Hazatones approved the motion and Niko Veronis seconded it. The motion was passed. Service and Outreach: No report. Stewardship: Niko Veronis reviewed the progress report. Technology: No report. Youth: Father Hector reported the following Youth Reports: GOYA Basketball Scrimmage and Fellowship at Sts. Constantine and Helen in Reading Sunday, May 3 GOYA Soccer Tournament hosted by Lancaster Saturday, May 9 Movie Night Friday, May 15 Watched excerpts from A.D. The Bible Continues and discussed the Book of Acts. Family Night Picnic Sunday, May 17, at A. Herr Park HOPE/JOY: Family Night Picnic Sunday, May 17, at A. Herr Park OCF/Young Adults: OCF Bible Studies Concluded for the semester, Young Adult Bible Study - - May 6 & 20, Camp Nazareth Counselor Orientation Saturday, May 16. Led by Metropolis Camp Ministries Coordinator, Ted Cherpas Mission Parish: The committee meets twice a month at Lititz Mennonite Church. The format begins with a service followed by a faith discussion and fellowship. On Saturday, May 23, a group will be heading to Lewes, Delaware to meet with a priest who has established six Orthodox mission parishes for his counsel. New Business: The sanctuary project will go from July The aesthetics committee met Saturday, May 18 to review the color selections. They budgeted $16,000 for carpet, $8,600 for woodwork, and $45,000 for marble. Final numbers will be presented at the next meeting. A ribbon cutting ceremony took place for the council of churches facility. It is a 25,000+ square foot multi-functional facility. The $2.5 million project was funded by pledges and donations. The meeting was adjourned at 8:51 PM with a closing prayer. Respectfully Submitted, Artemis Tsoflias, Parish Council Secretary The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 16

19 Sponsor Page The Annunciator/August 2015 PAGE 17

20 The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 64 Hershey Avenue Lancaster, Pa Non-Profit ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lancaster, PA Permit No. 502 VACATION CHURCH SCHOOL Treasures of the Heart! August 3-6 6:00 8:15 PM Friday, August 7 Youth Pilgrimage to Holy Protection Monastery