ORTHODOX LIFE. April How to make the most out of Holy Week. Attend Palm Sunday Services 10:00 am

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1 ORTHODOX LIFE You are the Voice of Christ in a Changing World As the Father has sent me, so I send you! John 20:21 The Official Publication of Saint Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church April 2017 How to make the most out of Holy Week Attend Palm Sunday Services 10:00 am Receive the Sacrament of Holy Unction Holy Wednesday at 3:30 and 7:00 pm Receive Holy Communion at least once There are 6 *SIX* Liturgies during the week Venerate the Cross or Epitaphios From 8:30 pm on Holy Thursday till 8:00 pm on Good Friday Receive the LIGHT and receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist at the Resurrection Service

2 Parish Ministries Parish Council President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Asst. Treasurer Shawn Hathaway Peter Kehayias Chris Manthous Terry Mitchell Church Office Tracey St. Louis-Harris Sunday School Elsa Galetsa - Director Rick Semon Paula Dart Alexandra Igoumenos Yannoula Ballassi Steve Bellos Choir John Fakis - Director Magdalene Santos - Organist Cantor George Papadopoulos & Aleksander Filip Altar Boys Michael Sergakis Philoptochos President - Mary Peteros Visitations - Alice Poulios Soup Kitchen - Irene Synodi College Outreach - Stephanie Panagos Bible Study Fr. Dean Greek School Dora Georgeady - Teacher Hellenic Dancers Nancy Bellos, Kristen Matsas Young at Heart Nancy Bellos - President Youth Michael Sergakis Bookstore Penny Maistros Web Page Julianne Swanson Order of AHEPA George Mitchell - President Endowment Fund Peter Galetsa Michael Podeszwa Marianne Semon Peter Smith Demetrius Tasoulas St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church 200 Hempstead St., New London, CT (860) FAX (860) Fr. Dean: (860) Office Hours Monday thru Friday 9am to 1pm office@saintsophianl.org frdean@saintsophianl.org Web Page: saintsophianl.org Facebook: Saint Sophia Church Fr. Dean A. Panagos Deacon James Whittaker Michael Sergakis - Youth/Young Adult Director Weekly Please call the office to be placed on the parish list for the most up-to-date parish news. Also, please let us know if you d like to receive the monthly bulletin via instead of having it mailed to your home. IMPORTANT Hospital ministry is an integral part of the ministry of the Church. If you would like Fr. Dean to visit you or a family member in the hospital, Rehabilitation Centers or Adult Care Centers please contact the Church Office. Bulletin Sponsors Place your greeting here! BULLETIN SPONSORSHIP FORM Yes, I would like to sponsor an issue of the Orthodox Life Name In memory of In honor of Other (circle) Donation: $50 Please make checks payable to: St. Sophia Church. Thank you!

3 A p r i l L i t u r g i c a l L i f e The Sacrament Of Holy Unction The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, (Holy Unction) reminds us that when we are in pain, either physical, emotional, or spiritual, Christ is present with us through the ministry of His Church. He is among us to offer strength to meet the challenges of life, and even the approach of death. This Sacrament is the Church's specific prayer for healing. The biblical basis for the Sacrament is found in James 5:14-16: Is any among you sick, let him call for the presbyters of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord As with all Sacraments of the Church, they are administered by ordained clergy. Thus, to receive the Sacrament on Holy Wednesday you must be present at either the 3:30 service or the 7:00 pm service. The Sacrament will not be allowed to be taken home. Fr. Dean will anoint our parishioners who are home bound or in nursing homes. If you can not come to Church then please call Fr. Dean to make arrangements. April Church Services Matins 9:00 am Sunday Services Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Weekday/Saturday Services Matins/Divine Liturgy - 8:30 am (C) Evangelismos Chapel FIFTH WEEK OF GREAT LENT Monday, 3/27 Great Compline at 7:00 pm Wednesday, 3/29 Presanctified Liturgy at 5:30 pm Friday, 3/31 Akathist Hymn at 7:00 pm Sunday, 4/2 SAINT MARY OF EGYPT SIXTH WEEK OF GREAT LENT Monday, 4/3 Great Compline Wednesday, 4/5 Presanctifed Liturgy at 5:30 pm Monday, 4/17 Wednesday, 4/19 Friday, 4/21 Sunday, 4/23 Sunday, 4/30 HOLY WEEK Bright Monday Bright Wednesday Life-Giving Font SUNDAY OF ST. THOMAS St. George SUNDAY OF THE MYRRHS BEARERS Paschal Fellowship Celebrate the Resurrection at our Paschal Fellowship following the Liturgy! Margeritsa (Easter soup) Loukaniko & Tsoureki cheese and olives

4 April Activities Saturday 4/1 Greek School 10:00 am Sunday 4/2 Monday 4/3 Tuesday 4/4 Wednesday 4/5 Friday 4/7 Friday 4/14 Sunday School 11:00 am Festival Mtg 5:00 pm Parish Council Mtg 6 pm Greek School 4 & 5 pm Family Night at 6:00 pm Palm Making April Holy Week Wednesday 4/19 Thursday 4/20 Saturday 4/22 Sunday 4/23 Wednesday 4/16 Saturday 4/29 Sunday 4/30 NL Soup Kitchen 4 pm Greek School 4 & 5 pm Seniors Lunch 12:30 pm Greek School 10:00 am Sunday School 11:00 am Greek School 4 & 5 pm Greek School 10:00 am COC Soup Kitchen Sunday School 11:00 am SACRAMENTAL LIFE Baptism Erik Stadtmiller, Son of Ryan and Helene Godparent is Emmanuel Filindarakis April Memorials April 2 40 Day Memorial Marica Margoulis 1 Year Memorials Zaferia Paleologou Zeus Papathanasiou Liza Kedioglou Please Consider Sponsoring The Fellowship Hour Fellowship Hours may be sponsored in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a birthday, etc. The Parish Council will make the coffee and assist the hosts as needed. The following Sundays are available May 7, 21 and 28 In memory of Name of Loved One Memory Eternal! CELEBRATE THE MEMORY OF YOUR LOVED ONES ON GREAT AND HOLY FRIDAY This year, as we process the Kouvouklion around our Church, we will have luminary bags honoring the memory of our departed loved ones lighting the front path of the Church. Our GOYA will be putting these bags together with a sticker that has the name of your departed loved one (one name per bag) as is shown to the left. GOYA is asking for a donation of $5 per bag to support the youth programs. All of these names will also be read as we reenter the Church walking beneath the Kouvouklion. Order your luminary today! Orders for the luminaries can be made after liturgy at the GOYA table in the hall. Orders will be taken through Holy Wednesday. Please direct any question to Michael Sergakis at youth@saintsophianl.org Order forms can also be given to Michael.

5 2017 Holy Week Schedule Ανάσταση του Λαζάρου - 8 Απριλίου Όρθρος καί Θεία Λειτουργία - 9:00 π.μ. Κυριακή τον ΒαΪων - 9 Απριλίου Όρθρος 9:00 π.μ. - Λειτουργία 10:00 π.μ Ακολουθία του Νυμφίου - 7:00 μ.μ. Μεγάλη Δευτέρα - 10 Απριλίου Ακολουθία του Νυμφίου - 7:00 μ.μ. Μεγάλη Τρίτη - 11 Απριλίου Ακολουθία του Νυμφίου - 7:00 μ.μ. Μεγάλη Τετάρτη - 12 Απριλίου Προηγιασμένη Λειτουργία - 9:00 π.μ. Ευχέλαιον - 3:30 μ.μ. Ακολουθία του Νυμφίου και Ευχέλαιον - 7:00 μ.μ. Μεγάλη Πέμπτη - 13 Απριλίου Λειτουργία Μ. Βασιλείου - 9:00 π.μ. Ακολουθία Αγίων Παθών - 7:00 μ.μ. Μεγάλη Παρασκευή - 14 Απριλίου Ακολουθία Μεγάλων Ωρών - 9:00 π.μ. Συγκέντρωση Νεολαίας - 11:00 π.μ. Αποκαθήλωσις - 3:00 μ.μ. Επιτάφιος Θρήνος - 7:30 μ.μ. Μέγα Σάββατον - 15 Απριλίου Λειτουργία Μ. Βασιλείου - 9:00 π.μ. ΑΓΙΟΝ ΠΑΣΧΑ Ακολουθία της Αναστάσεως και Λειτουργία 11:00 μ.μ Απριλίου Ακολουθία της Αγάπης - 11:30 π.μ. Κυριακή, 16 Απριλίου Raising of Lazarus, April 8 Matins & Divine Liturgy - 9:00 am Palm Sunday, April 9 Matins 9:00 am Divine Liturgy - 10:00 am Bridegroom Service - 7:00 pm Holy Monday, April 10 Bridegroom Service - 7:00 pm Holy Tuesday, April 11 Bridegroom Service - 7:00 pm Holy Wednesday, April 12 Presanctified Liturgy - 9:00 am The Sacrament of Holy Unction - 3:30 pm Bridegroom Service and Anointing with Holy Unction - 7:00 pm Holy Thursday, April 13 Liturgy of the Mystical Supper - 9:00 am Service of the Holy Passion - 7:00 pm Holy and Great Friday - April 14 Royal Hours - 9:00 am Youth Retreat - 11:00 am Vespers of the Unnailing - 3:00 pm Service of the Lamentations - 7:30 pm Holy Saturday - April 15 Vesperal Liturgy - 9:00 a.m. PASCHA Resurrection Service and Liturgy 11:00 pm on April 15 Agape Vespers - 11:30 am Sunday, April 16 Παράκληση για Προσευχές Παρακαλούμε να έχετε στις προσευχές σας τους παρακάτω αδερφούς μας... Κατερίνα, Τζέφ, Κλειώ, Δημήτριο, Λουκρητία, Μαίρη, Αλεξάνδρια, Αγγέλα, Νίνα, Όλγα, Κικί, Μαίρη, Μάρσια, Τζένη, Μιχάλη, Γεώργιο, Μαίρη, Πέτρο, Άμος, Πέτρο, Γεώργιο, Φρίντα, Βούλα, Σοφία, Χρήστο και Μαρία, Θωμά και Κυβέλη, Γεωργία, Ηλία, Ελένη, Δέσποινα, Ελένη, Σύνθια, Νίκο, Βασίλειο, Ελένη, Αλεξάνδρια, Κατερίνα και Αθηνά Prayer Requests Please remember in Prayer the servants of God Catherine, Jeff, Cleo, Demetrios, Lucretia, Mary, Alexandria, Nina, Olga, Kiki, Mary, Jenny, Michael, George, Mary, Peter, Amos, Peter, George, Freida, Voula, Sophia, Christos and Maria, Thomas and Kiveli, Georgia, Elias, Helen, Despina, Vasilios, Helen, Alexandra, Katherine, Athena

6 The Gifts We Receive We ve all received generic gifts! The fruit cake, coffee cup, hotel hand lotion, a calendar from an insurance company. What do you do with these gifts? You could eat the fruit cake, put the coffee mug with the 40 others you already have, use the hand lotion and give your child the calendar. Or you could trash the fruit cake, put the coffee mug in the box of yard sale items, re-gift the lotion and the calendar most likely place it in the recycling bin. When someone hands you hotel lotion and says, This is for you, don t you detect a lack of originality? But when you get that gift, a real genuine gift, one you know the person took time to find, don t you cherish it? We see these gifts and we know that someone planned, prepared, saved and searched. It is a gift just for you! God gives us a gift in Pascha! It is a gift just for you! It was planned, prepared and presented to you and to me! An angel spoke these words: Jesus he is risen! He is not here! The woman at the tomb heard them. But what the angel said to them, God says to anyone who will listen. Jesus is the gift! Pascha, the resurrected life of Jesus, is the gift of God to us. What do we get if we accept the gift of Jesus? Jesus can change your life. To discover the gift of Jesus is to discover God s devotion to you, His resolve to give you a cleansing, healing, fulfilling love that lifts the soul heavenward. Jesus is a gift that grants us the power to receive love and the power to give love. A gift that changes us, shapes us, and leads us to a life that is eternally altered. All God wants from us is to accept the gift of Jesus by putting our faith in Him. When we do we grow in the grace of Christ. In Christ we see ourselves for what we are God s personal remolding project. We place ourselves in His hands! We no longer live alone, but live in Christ who refines us, enabling the likeness of God to shine forth brilliant and splendid. Christ! Let Him into your life! Let him arise to the surface of your being, so that you become a light of kindness and a deed of generosity to those you encounter. Pascha can change you if you allow it to. Christ can change you if you allow Him to. We are not perfect by any means but in Christ we can grow closer to perfection than we have ever been. May it happen to You this Paschal season! Fr. Dean Holy Confession Before/After the Service of the Great Compline or you may call Fr. Dean at the church office to make an appointment Like the prodigal son, we look at our lives and decide what we must change so that we may live the way God has taught us to live. Like the father in the parable, God runs to greet us when we decide to turn toward Him. All He has to see is our sincere repentance, or change, and our desire to return to Him. His arms are always open and waiting to embrace us. The sacrament of Holy Confession is our opportunity to speak to God -courageously, humbly and honestly - in the presence of a priest. who then guides us and proclaims God s forgiveness

7 Flowers For The Church and Donations Requested During Lent and Holy Week Daffodils for the Holy Cross $ Palms $ Altar Vase Arrangements (2) $ each Palm Sunday Icon $ White Chairs for aisles $ Icon of the Bridegroom $ Good Friday Altar Vase (2) $ each Rose Petals $50.00 Icon of the Crucifixion $ Bay leaves $ Police coverage on Good Friday $ Resurrection Icon $ Altar Vase Arrangements (2) $ each Incense $ Bulletin Covers and envelopes $65.00 Easter letterhead and envelopes $65.00 Saint Sophia is pleased to announce two new Scholarships for graduating High School seniors of the parish Please call the Church Office ( ) if you would like to donate any of the above items. The families of our beloved brother, John, who passed away on February 24, 2017, are Bill, Phil, Harry, Anthony, Peter Mountzoures and Mary Gannon, Mollie Sotire, Louise Krupovage. We extend our deepest appreciation for our relatives and friends who attended the wake, sent cards and extended your thoughtful words and prayers. We also thank our two priests and the rabbi for the funeral service. We will miss our dear brother John and may his memory be eternal. The Sultana and Constandinos Provatas Memorial scholarship is a $250 annual scholarship to a qualified high school student who has exemplified the meaning of a good Orthodox Christian student through academic achievement and accomplishments in the cultural and fine arts. The scholarship is given in memory of Sultana and Constandinos Provatas who were life-long parishioners of the parish. The Cynthia Matthews and Helen M Memorial scholarship is a $250 annual scholarship to a qualified High School student who will be attending a public college or university in the state of Connecticut. This scholarship is given by the children of Cynthia in her memory. Both Cynthia and Helen were committed to education and the state of CT. In addition to the above Scholarship there are the Philoptochos Scholarships Evie Birch Scholarship Yvonne Costa Scholarship MBC Camp Scholarships

8 Parish Council News Endowment Fund In the early 1970 s a group of parishioners gathered and formed the St. Sophia Foundation Fund (now known as the Endowment Fund) to ensure that the parish in the future will carry forward effectively its Christian Orthodox Mission. Their vision has become a reality! Over the last several years the Fund Committee and Parish Council have approved several new by -laws changes the secure the principle and promote growth. These are in the final process of being formalized and will be presented at a Parish Assembly for approval. In brief, the endowment fund purpose is to provide funds for special uses outside the normal operating expenses of the Church. Any invasion of the principle is, therefore, contrary to the accepted purpose of the Fund. The market gain, as determined by the Parish Council and the Endowment Committee will be divided in a 50/50 split between the Parish and the Endowment fund. The 50% of endowment income will be added to the previous year principle so that the principle will increase each year. The 2016 Fall Parish Assembly approved the transfer of funds from the Capital Campaign to the Endowment fund for payoff of the existing loan. In 2016, the market gain was $49, This amount was divided in half. The parish has received $24,782.53, the remaining amount remains in the Endowment, increasing the principle to $ The money the Parish has received has been allocated towards scholarships for our youth to attend MBC (Metropolis Boston Camp), Kitchen upgrades and facility improvements above and beyond everyday needs of the campus. After some 50 years and diligent work of founders the Fund has now been realized! On Sunday, April 30, the Endowment Fund Committee will host the Fellowship hour and present information on how you may contribute and to thank those who have done so in the past. Peter Galetsa, Chair of the Endowment Committee St. Sophia Financial Report February 28, 2017 Income Stewardship $ 17, Candles, tray, adopt-a-bill 2, Memorial Donations 1, Holiday Donations 0.00 General Donations 0.00 Supplementary Income 1, Religious/Cultural Fundraisers Hall Rental Other Income 0.00 Capital Campaign Total Inflow $ 23, Expenses Archdiocese $ 4, Wages 18, Auto Expense Insurance 0.00 Telephone Utilities 4, Supplies Maintenance 2, Postage 0.00 General Expenses 4, Religious/Cultural Youth Groups 0.00 Church Holidays Fundraisers 0.00 Fellowship Capital Expenses 0.00 Total Outflow $ 36, Net Profit $ (12,736.65) 7Operating Fund as of 02/28/2017 Checking Account/Money Market $ 51, Restricted Funds as of 2/28/2017 Endowment Fund Assets $ 646, Capital Campaign Account 11, Designated Donation/ Maintenance Account 21, Outstanding Commitments Chelsea Groton loan 181, Have You Made Your 2017 Stewardship Pledge? If Not - Please Do So Today!

9 PARISH OUTREACH IN NEW LONDON On Friday, April 14th we will serve at the New London Community Meal Center (Soup Kitchen). We will need 6 to 8 volunteers at the soup kitchen to do prep work, serve, do dishes and clean up. We start at 4:00 pm and finish about 6:30 pm. Saint Sophia Social Club Senior Ministry Forty-two friends took part in a Lenten fish luncheon Since it was the Lenten season, Fr. Dean explained the friendship of Mary, Martha and Lazarus with Christ Joanne Ballassi sent get-well cards to Myrtle Johnson and Helen Stratos. A sympathy card was sent to Bill and Bessie Mountzouras on the loss of this brother, John Helen Boussios, George Dallas and Bill Mountzoures all celebrated their birthdays with us. On Sunday, April 23rd we will be sponsoring the Fellowship Hour. On Saturday, April 29, we will be serving a meal at the Church of the City New London Soup Kitchen at the First Baptist Church, 250 State Street in New London. St. Sophia has made a commitment to serve a meal for the hungry on the 5th Saturday. The meal will be prepared at 2:00 pm and served from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Please see or call Eleni Mosher at , Irene Synodi at or call the Church Office at to volunteer your time. If you would like to contribute to this ministry please send your contributions to the office payable to: St. Sophia/Enosis Philoptochos Discretionary Fund Thursday, April 20 12:30 pm $7.00 a person Please bring your favorite desserts Greek School Ελληνικό Σχολείο Classes are held every Saturday at 10:00 Students will learn the Greek language and different elements of Greek culture. Adult classes are held on Wednesdays at 4:00

10 Executive Board President Mary Peteros Vice President Marcia Wenzel Dora Georgeady Treasurer Penny Maistros Assistant Treasurer Marianne Semon Secretary Julie Vangel Corresponding Secretary Yannoula Ballassi Our next General Meeting will be on Tuesday May 16 st at 6:30 pm. Please join us! New London Soup Kitchen April Meal preparation will occur during Holy Week. Exact day and time will be announced at a later date. If you would like to donate or volunteer your time contact Irene Synodi. ENOSIS PHILOPTOCHOS WHAT S HAPPENING IN APRIL? PALM SUNDAY AND HOLY WEEK PREPARATIONS Palm Sunday Preparations Palm Crosses Friday Evening, April 7 th Palm Sunday Luncheon Sunday April 9 th. Holy Week Preparations Wednesday, April 12 boiling eggs only, Thursday, April 13 egg coloring and wrapping. Friday, April 14 10:00 a.m. Decorating the Kouvouklion ATTENTION SENIORS AND STUDENTS Applications for college scholarships as well as camperships are available. Please call the church office if you would like to apply for either. Applications are due by May 15 th, Pleases submit your applications on time if you would like to be considers. Awards will be presented on Graduation Sunday which is June 11 th. A BIG THANK YOU to those parishioners who have donated the ingredients for meals for our Soup Kitchen Outreach Ministry. JoAnn Ballassi Menia Mustakis Liz Louziotis In memory of Sophocles & Priscilla Ballassi In memory of her mother-in-law, Vasiliki Mustakis For the health and well-being of her family.

11 St. Sophia Bookstore GREAT READS FOR LENT God Speaks from the Cross by Anthony Coniaris is an interpretation of the Seven Last Words spoken by our from the Cross 2. Great Week and Pascha in the Greek Orthodox Church comments and reflections of each day of Holy Week. 3. Great Lent Unplugged, Lenten Spring, I Saw the Holy Light, and other Lenten selections. We have beautifully illustrated books, bookmarks, night lights, hand-painted Icons and much more ICONS, CDs, COOKBOOKS AND MORE Many CD s including Thy Resurrection, Greek Byzantine Easter, and Hymns of Holy Week, as well as dozens of icons such as The Resurrection, The Mystical Supper, The Holy Wisdom of God are available FOR THE CHILDREN PERFECT FOR THEIR EASTER BASKET We have beautifully illustrated books, bookmarks, night lights, hand-painted stones, and much more that will delight any child. ICONS, CDs, COOKBOOKS AND MUCH MORE Many CD s including Thy Resurrection, Greek Byzantine Easter, and Hymns of Holy Week, as well as dozens of icons such as The Resurrection, The Mystical Supper, The Holy Wisdom of God are available. We also have a large selection of cookbooks DECORATED PASCHA CANDLES for the children We have beautifully decorated and reasonably priced Paschal candles for the children. ORTHODOX STUDIES IN THE FAITH WEDNESDAY NIGHTS IN LENT During Great Lent we will meet great figures of the New Testament: who they are, what they do and how they have been assessed across the centuries by historians and artists, theologians and worshippers in the pew. Taking us though the bible will be Amy-Jill Levine, Professor of New Testament Studies at Vanderbilt University April 5 Mary Magdalene, the sole consistent witness to the empty tomb Bible Study will Resume Wednesday, April 26 To know God is to study the Word of God Wednesdays in the Vallas Building Morning Study - 10:00 am Evening Prayer - 6:30 pm Evening Study - 7:00 pm The Study lasts one hour We will be studying. The Gospel of Mark April 26 Are You Giving Priority to Jesus or to Tradition May 3 Who is Jesus and What Will it Cost to Follow Him? May 10 I Do Believe; Help My Unbelief? May 17 What Do You Want Mora then the Kingdom of God? No Study May 24 May 31 How Much Love Does Jesus Want From Yo9u?

12 YOU ARE THE VOICE OF CHRIST IN A CHANGING WORLD. AS THE FATHER HAS SENT ME, SO I SEND YOU! John 20:21 Enosis Philoptochos is collecting new pajamas and new children s books for the Pajama Program during Lent. Please bring your donation/s to church and place in the bin in lobby. The deadline to donate is Good Friday. For information, please contact Stephanie Panagos at (860)

13 Palm Sunday Luncheon The New London Homeless Hospitality Center invites residents to walk with them April 23 and show support for those experiencing homelessness in the community. The event is also intended to help raise support for the HHC and inspire those who participate through the stories of people experiencing homelessness, according to a release. Attendees can meet the Vet House residents and chat with interpreters portraying activists from New London's earlier days. Musicians Ben and Nancy Parent, the Raging Grannies and others will also energize guests. The walk, which is organized by HHC and Connecticut College, starts at 1 p.m. Participants will meet at the municipal parking lot across from Homeward Bound Treasures at 35 Golden Street. Come early for music, performances, food trucks, meetups and day-of registrations. The event even ends with free ice cream and a drumming circle at the Parade Plaza at the top of Bank Street. Sunday April 9th In the Fellowship Hall Immediately Following the Divine Liturgy Complete Fish Dinner (fish, vegetable, salad, bread, desserts, wine and soft drinks) $20.00 Children s Plate (pizza) $5.00 Tickets on sale from the church office at office@saintsophianl.org and on Sunday s through April 5. No tickets will be sold at the door

14 Youth of Saint Sophia Summer 2017 Saint Sophia Youth off to MBC Vacation Bible School July 17th - 21st Join us for a great week of faith, learning, and lots of fun! We will be attending Week 5 this year July 31st - August 6th all youth from grades 4-12 Film Festival at Saint Spyridon in Newport, RI July 8th Starting at 9:30 am Create and submit any faith oriented video up to 20 minutes long. There are no age restrictions.

15 Youth at Saint Sophia Good Friday Retreat A Day of Grace and Love 11:00 am to 4:00** pm Come and Follow the Journey of Jesus. Visit the Upper Room, The Garden of Gethsemane, and the home of the High priest. There will be a lesson with Fr. Dean and Michael, lunch, and time for a craft. **At 4:00 our Jr. GOYA, GOYA, and their parents are invited to come to the soup kitchen to help serve dinner. If you plan to serve food, please bring a change of church clothes for the Friday Evening service. If you need a dismissal slip for your child, you can pick them up in the office. Help Ring in the Resurrection Bring a bell with you to church on Holy Saturday morning and the Agape Service Family Night - Palm Crosses Friday, April 6:00 Come and join us for a great night for the whole family. We will have dinner, make Palm Crosses for Palm Sunday, and have a spiritual lesson to wrap up Great Lent. Attendance at this event can be used to make up an absence for a Sunday School class What to do during Holy Week! Palm Making & Family Night April 7th Palm Sunday Procession April 24 Have you ever heard of the Bridegroom service? Come be a part of it. Sunday through Wednesday 7:00 pm Come to the Sacrament of Holy Unction Wednesday at 3:30 pm Myrrh-Bearers Good Friday services Luminaries for Friday Night Good Friday Retreat - April 14th GOYA - Help to serve at Soup Kitchen Sunday, April 16 Saturday - 9:00 am come to a unique Liturgy, don t forget your bell! 11:30 pm - Come for the Resurrection! Christ is Risen! Following AGAPE SERVICE Easter Sunday - AGAPE Service at 11:30 EASTER EGG HUNT

16 Τα δώρα που δεχόμαστε Όλοι μας έχουμε δεχτεί κάποια κοινότυπα δώρα. Ένα κέικ φρόυτων, μια κούπα του καφέ, μια λοσιόν χεριών από ένα ξενοδοχείο, ένα διαφημιστικό ημερολόγιο από κάποια ασφαλιστική εταιρία. Τί κάνετε με αυτά τα δώρα; Μπορείτε να φάτε το κέικ, να βάλετε την κούπα μαζί με τις άλλες 40 κούπες που έχετε, να χρησιμοποιήσετε την λοσιόν, και να δώσετε το ημερολόγιο στο παιδί σας. Ή μπορείτε να πετάξετε το κέικ, να βάλετε την κούπα στο κουτί με τα πράγματα που θέλετε να πουλήσετε, να χαρίσετε την λοσιόν σε κάποιον άλλο, και να πετάξετε το ημερολόγιο στον κάδο για τα ανακυκλώσιμα. Όταν κάποιος σας δίνει την κρέμα χεριών και σας λέει αυτό είναι για σένα αμέσως νοιώθετε ότι δεν αφιέρωσε καθόλου χρόνο στην επιλογή του δώρου. Όταν όμως παίρνετε το δώρο, ένα πραγματικά προσεγμένο δώρο, το δώρο που αμέσως καταλαβαίνετε ότι κάποιος αφιέρωσε χρόνο για να το επιλέξει, δεν γίνεται αμέσως το αγαπημένο σας; Με το που βλέπουμε αυτά τα δώρα, αμέσως καταλαβαίνουμε ότι κάποιος διέθεσε χρόνο και σκέψη για να βρει το κατάλληλο δώρο. Είναι ένα δώρο μόνο για σένα! Ο Θεός μας δίνει ένα δώρο το Πάσχα! Είναι ένα δώρο για σένα. Το σκέφτηκε, το ετοίμασε και το παρουσίασε σε εσένα και σε εμένα. Ένας Άγγελος έιπε αυτές τις λέξεις. Οι γυναίκες στον τάφο τις άκουσαν. Αλλά αυτό που έιπε ο άγγελος το λέει ο Θεός σε όποιον είναι έτοιμος να το ακούσει. Ο Ιησούς είναι το δώρο. Το Πάσχα, η Ανάστασή του Ιησού είναι το δώρο το Θεού σε εμάς. Ο Ιησούς είναι σημαντικός, είναι το πιο σημαντικό δώρο, γιατί προσφέρει ως δώρο Τον εαυτό Του σε όλους μας. Tί παίρνουμε εάν δεχτούμε το δώρο του Ιησού; Ο Ιησούς μπορεί να αλλάξει την ζωή σας. Η αποκάλυψη του δώρου του Ιησού, είναι η αποκάλυψη της αφοσίωσης του Θεού σε εσάς, της αποφασής του να σας δώσει μια καθαρή και αγνή αγάπη που θα υψώσει την ψυχή σας στον παράδεισο. Ο Ιησούς είναι ένα δώρο που μας δίνει την δυνατότητα να πάρουμε αλλά και να δώσουμε αγάπη. Ένα δώρο που μας αλλάζει, μας σμιλεύει και μας οδηγεί σε μια ζωή που έχει αλλάξει για πάντα. Το μόνο που μας ζητάει ο Θεός είναι να δεχτούμε το δώρο του Ιησού με το να πιστέψουμε σε Αυτόν. Μετά από αυτό μεγαλώνουμε, πορευόμαστε με την χάρη του Χριστού. Εν Χριστώ βλέπουμε αυτό που είμαστε - το προσωπικό έργο μεταμορφώσεως του Θεού. Θέτουμε τους εαυτούς μας στα χέρια Του. Δεν ζούμε πλέον μόνοι μας αλλά ζούμε με τον Χριστό, που μας τελειοποιεί, επιτρέποντας στην θεοπρέπεια να λάμψει. Ο Χριστός! Αφήστε Τον να εισέλθει στην ζωή σας! Αφήστε Τον να έρθει στην επιφάνεια της ύπαρξης σας, ώστε να γίνεται το φως της ευγένειας και της γενναιοδωρίας σε όσους συναντάτε. Το Πάσχα μπορεί να σας αλλάξει εάν του το επιτρέψετε. Ο Χριστός μπορεί να σας αλλάξει εάν Του το επιτρέψετε. Δεν είμαστε τέλειοι σε καμμιά περίπτωση αλλά εν Χριστώ μπορούμε να έρθουμε πιο κοντά στην τελειότητα από οποιαδήποτε άλλη φορά. Σας εύχομαι να σας συμβεί αυτή την Αναστάσιμη περίοδο!

17 Πρόγραμμα Λειτουργικής Ζωή Tου Λειτουργίες του Απριλίου Το Μυστήριο του Ευχελαίου Το Μυστήριο του Ευχελαίου, μας υπενθυμίζει ότι όταν βρισκόμαστε σε φυσικό, συναισθηματικό ή ψυχικό πόνο, ο Ιησούς είναι πάντα δίπλα μας μέσω της Εκκλησίας Του. Είναι δίπλα μας και μας δίνει δύναμη να ανταπεξέλθουμε στις δυσκολίες της ζωής, ακόμη και τον θάνατο. Το Μυστήριο αυτό αποτελεί την ειδική προσευχή της Εκκλησίας για την ίαση. Ακολουθίες τις Κυριακές Ορθρος 9:00π.μ. Θεία Λειτουργία 10:00 π.μ. Κυριακή 2/4, 40ημερο μνημόσυνο για την Marica Margoulis Η βιβλική αναφορά για το Μυστήριο βρίσκεται στην επιστολή του Ιακώβου 5:14-16; Εάν κάποιος είναι άρρωστος να προσκαλέσει τους πρεσβύτερους της Εκκλησίας να προσευχηθούν για αυτόν και να τον αλείψουν με λάδι, επικαλούμενοι το όνομα του Κυρίου.. Όπως όλα τα Μυστήρια της Εκκλησίας, έτσι και το Μυστήριο του Ευχελαίου, τελείται από Ιερείς. Επισημαίνουμε λοιπόν, ότι για να λάβετε το Μυστήριο του Ευχελαίου, θα πρέπει να είστε παρόντες είτε στην λειτουργία στις 3:30μμ, είτε στην λειτουργία στις 7:00μμ. Δεν θα επιτραπεί να πάρετε Ευχέλαιο στο σπίτι σας. Ο Πάτερ Κωνσταντίνος θα φέρει το Ευχέλαιο σε όσους δεν μπορούν να βγούν από το σπίτι τους, και σε όσους βρίσκονται σε οίκους Ευγηρίας. Εάν δεν μπορείτε να έρθετε στην Εκκλησία στις παραπάνω λειτουργίες, παρακαλούμε να επικοινωνήσετε με τον Πατερ Κωνσταντίνο. ΠΑΣΧΑΛΙΝΟ ΦΑΓΗΤΟΝ ΑΜΕΣΩΣ ΜΕΤΑ ΤΗΝ ΛΕΙΤΟΥΡΓΙΑΝ ΤΗΣ ΑΝΑΣΤΑΣΕΩΣ Μαγερίτσα Λουκάνικο - Τσουρέκι Πασχαλινά Αύγά, Τυρί, Ελαιές Οσίας Μαρίας Αιγυπτίας Ετήσιο μνημόσυνο για τους Ζαφειρία Παλαιολόγου Zeus Παπαθανασίου Λίζα Κεδίογλου Έκτη Εβδομάδα Νηστειών Δευτέρα 3/4, Τετάρτη 5/4, Μέγα Απόδειπνον ~ 7μμ Προηγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία στις 5:30 μμ ΜΕΓΑΛΗ ΕΒΔΟΜΑΔΑ Δευτέρα 17/4, Διακαινήσιμος Δευτέρα Τετάρτη 19/4, Διακαινήσιμος Τετάρτη Παρασκευή 21/4, Ζωοδόχου Πηγής Κυριακή 23/4, ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗ ΤΟΥ ΘΩΜΑ Γεωργίου Μεγαλομάρτυρος Κυριακή 30/4, ΤΩΝ ΜΥΡΟΦΟΡΩΝ Σημαντικό Οι επισκέψεις στο νοσοκομείο είναι κομμάτι της προσφοράς της ενορίας μας. Αν θα θέλατε τον Πατερ, να επισκεφτεί εσάς ή κάποιο μέλος της οικόγενειάς σας στο Νοσοκομείο επικοινωνήστε με το γραφείο της Εκκλησίας μας

18 Support our Sponsors Ann M. Buonocore Owner Place your ad here $120/year yahoo.com For all your travel to Greece HORIZON TRAVEL, INC. Denis, Betsy & Georgette Kostis Dover, NH (603) Μηλάμε Έλλινικά S & S HOMEMAINTENANCE,LLC. ADDITIONS,DECKS, SIDING,PAINTING HARDWOOD FLOORS - NEW AND REFINISHED SEAMLESS FLOORS,SNOWPLOWING & MORE Steve Ferencz CT License # Tel: Cross Rd cell: Waterford, CT Your Ad Here AHEPA Chapter 250 Scholarship Application Submission Deadline is May 31st [Details and Applications at our next meeting.] Have you joined AHEPA yet? Zachas Electric, LLC [Next Meeting - April 17th at 6:00 pm] Residential Electrician Free Estimates / Quality Work Reasonable Rates Complimentary Dinner for Potential New Members David Zachas Come to the next meeting as our guest! (let us know if you re coming) Contact us at AHEPA250@Outlook.com Place your ad here (860) Lic. #E

19 Support our Sponsors Demetrios Petropoulos, D.M.D., M.S Edgar A. Heil, D. M. D. 514 WEST MAIN STREET NORWICH, CT TELEPHONE: (860) FAX: (860) We speak Greek David F. Falvey, ESQ. Place your ad here Web: Board Certified Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney Tele: (860) Fax: (860) One Crouch Street, Groton, CT Website: We offer full service Family Dental & Sleep Apnea KING FAMILY EYE CARE, LLC Dr. Matthew King & Associates Optometrists 761 Boston Post Road Old Saybrook, CT Phone: (860) American-Italian & Greek Cuisine Specializing in Gourmet, Middle Eastern, Italian and Greek Foods Saving this space for your ad $120/year 88 Ocean Avenue New London, CT Serving Fine Food Since Ocean Avenue New London, CT Hours: Monday-Saturday Atlas Environmental Company Geologic & Environmental Consultants MAIN STREET GRILLE Restaurant & Bar 252 Main Street Niantic, CT t f Mainstreetgrille.002@gmail.com Teddy Ignatiadis Owner Christina Ignatiadis General Manager Property Transfer Act Evaluation Site Assessment, Remediation and Closure Environmental Permitting and Compliance Stormwater Management Plato Doundoulakis, PG Groton, Connecticut (860) Licensed Environmental Professional info@atlas-environmental.com Diane C. Bokron President & CEO 41 Commerce Court Newington, CT Cell: ROASTED FRESH DAILY SINCE 1927 Phone: Fax: db@omarcoffee.com Web: omarcoffee.com facebook.com/omarcoffeecompany PHONE Rt 12 GROTON CT

20 Stewardship We are the voice of Christ in a changing world. It is a challenging world due to change. We experience this in our own lives as we go through each day. Due to multiple means of communication and real time information, we are presented constantly with events and moments of change from around the world. To fulfill our Church s mission, we pray for everyone s participation in supporting our 2017 Stewardship Program Please take the time today to fill out your 2017 Stewardship Commitment Card.. Stewardship Pledge Cards for 2017 are available from the Church office 2017 STEWARDSHIP REPORT 1/1/17 3/19/17 Pledged amount $ 71, Amount Collected $ 49, We ask you to support our 2017 ministries The base from which we serve as the Voice of Christ in a Changing World is the parish. A strong parish provides opportunities for sharing the Good News of Christ, for welcoming those that are searching for a spiritual home, and a base from which we are sent out into the world. The parish also provides a place for worship, community and education in the faith. To be stewards of the Gospel, we need to be stewards of our parish. This requires the vision and inspiration to see the parish, not as it is, but as it could be. We are called to offer ourselves and our treasure to make our local church all that is can be. Please remember that St. Sophia is uniquely our responsibility and we need to help today for our Future! Be a Steward of Saint Sophia in 2017! We have seen rapid change in technology and the tremendous impact this has had on our lives and societies. In this constant change many advancements have been made that save lives, enhance education and access to information, show the power of human ingenuity. We also see and experience many challenges related to these changes: cost and access to technology, environmental impacts, materialism, and the threats from abuse. Today there is increasing talk about technology addiction. Many are asking how to navigate in the midst of these constant changes in our world and make wise decisions. The voice of Christ is needed in addressing such rapid changes for His voice is the voice of wisdom, stability, love and truth. His voice offers discernment in evaluating the benefits of technological change in relation to human life, purpose and well-being. His voice guides us to look beyond convenience and wants to reflect carefully on the broader impact of change in our lives, our communities, and the entire world. The voice of Christ answers the questions regarding what is good, what is true, what restores our relationships with God and each other. Archbishop Demetrios ADOPT A BILL! This is how it works! In the lobby of the Church is a bulletin board with a number of bills the church needs to pay. You are invited to chose a bill you would like to pay. Write a check out to Saint Sophia for the indicated amount and return the bill and check to the church office. This contribution is tax deductible but separate from your annual Stewardship donation. We thank the following parishioners that have contributed since January 2017 Niko & Katie Condulis Dean & Amy Antipas Alexia Katsiaficas

21 April 2017 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 10:00 am Greek School 2 Sunday School 9 Palm Sunday Sunday School Luncheon Bridegroom Service 16 Easter Agape Service 11:30 am 23 Sunday School Wedding 2:00 pm 30 Sunday School 3 5:00 pm Festival Mtg 7:00 pm Compline 10 Holy Monday Bridegroom Service 7:00 pm 17 8:30 am Liturgy 4 6:00 pm Parish Council meeting 11 Holy Tuesday Bridegroom Service 7:00 pm 5 4:00 & 5:00 pm Greek School 5:30 pm Presanctified Lenten Dinner 12 Holy Wednesday Liturgy 9 am Holy Unction 3:30 pm Bridegroom Service :30 am Liturgy 4:00 & 5:00 pm Greek School am & 7 pm Bible Study 6:30 pm Service 4:00 & 5:00 pm Greek School Holy Thursday Liturgy 9 am Passion Service 20 12:30 pm Seniors Luncheon 6:00 pm Family Night Palm Making 14 Good Friday Office Closed Good Friday Retreat 11:00-4: :30 am Liturgy 8 Sat of Lazarus 9:00 am 15 Holy Saturday Liturgy 9 am 22 10:00 am Greek School :00 am Greek School 3:00 pm Church of the City Soup Kitchen GOYA meeting after Church

22 St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church 200 Hempstead Street, New London, Connecticut ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID New London, CT Permit No. 272 PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY TIME VALUED MATERIAL Celebrating 25 Years On February12th family, friends and parishioners gathered on a snowy and stormy Sunday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of ordination of Fr. Dean. We welcomed Fr. George Economou and Fr. Chris Foustoukos who celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Fr. Dean, Fr. Charles and Dn. James. The hall was decorated with pictures, good and plenty candy and most importantly a spirit of love and thankfulness. The sliders, soups and cookie bar were an instant hit. The video of greetings from individuals of parishes Fr. Dean has served was inspiring and educational. We thank everyone who helped make the day such a success! From the heart I thank everyone who attended, sent cards, offered best wishes and planned this great event Love, Fr. Dean