ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ ΚΑΙ ΚΑΛΗ ΧΡΟΝΙΑ

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1 ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ ΚΑΙ ΚΑΛΗ ΧΡΟΝΙΑ THE RACE OF LIFE St. Paul speaking about his effort says: I have fought the good fight No year passes without something good happening. And likewise, no year passes without some trial and tribulation. The good fight is one that is fought with consistency. We do not need to be a super-christian, just a steady one. And we do not want to go through periods of spiritual ecstasy followed by spiritual mediocrity. Better to keep a steady pace, for the race is a marathon, not a sprint. Part of the race is to be an evangelist, to witness for Christ in some way. The easiest way is to love your neighbor. Even if the name of Christ is not mentioned, most of the times this year, there will be conversations, where you will think about Christ, where you will think, should I offer to pray here? and then you will make a choice. We will all experience this. We will all have occasions to bring Christ or prayer into a conversation and it will come up naturally. Marathon runners do not think of the entire race at one time. They think about the race in increments, in miles, in markers. They focus on running one mile at a time, they focus on the pace of a single mile, not the pace of the entire race. The race is won by running each individual mile well. Put the miles together and you have a well-run race. This year, we will run a segment of our life race. Some of us are running the first mile or two (if you are young or a new Christian); others are somewhere in the middle and some are close to the end. Focus on running YOUR mile well. Focus on the mile ahead of you. for those who have not run well to this point, it doesn t do much good to look back and lament. Look forward and focus on running the next mile well. The good news with God is that He doesn t expect anyone to WIN the race, only to FINISH the race. St. Paul didn t write, I have won the race, or I have put my opponents to shame. He wrote, I have finished the race. And how does God want us to cross the finish line? He wants us to have kept the faith. There are many times when I minister to people who are at the end of life. They may be very sick very tired. They may have had wonderful successes which have been forgotten because they lived twenty years past their retirement. And I will encourage them to keep the faith. We need to finish the race, and we need to keep the faith while finishing the race. God promises a reward, a crown of righteousness, to those who finish. As we begin a new year, focus on running a steady race each day. Don t let hardships ruin your steady pace. And don t let disappointments threaten your faith. Fight a good fight, run today s segment of the race (string days and years together and then finish, but focus on running today s segment today) and keep (and grow) in faith. Borrowed from LET ALL CREATION REJOICE: REFLECTIONS FOR ADVENT, THE NATIVITY AND EPIPHANY BY FR. STAVROS N. AKROTIRIANAKIS (available in our bookstore) INCLUDED IN THIS MAILING: Community Christmas Card, Complementary Calendar (Please pull the folded flap down, to display our sponsor s information and important Church numbers as well.), Pocket Calendar and January 2018 Bulletin.

2 Sun Dec 31 Regular Schedule No Sunday School Mon Jan 1 Tue Jan 2 Wed Jan 3 Fri Jan 5 Sat Jan 6 Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Konstandinos Bobotsiares by his brother Stavro Bobotsiares & family. NEW YEAR S EVE SERVICE St. Basil s Liturgy Matins 8:30pm Divine Liturgy 9:30pm NEW YEAR S DANCE IN SUPPORT OF YOUTH MINISTRIES (see details in bulletin) The GOYA youth will visit as many parishioners homes as possible, to wish them a blessed, healthy and happy New Year while singing the traditional New Year s carols (Kalanda). If this is inconvenient, please call the office requesting to be taken off the list. Happy New Year! Office is closed. Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am First day of school after the holidays for Annunciation Christian Academy Philoptochos Board Meeting 6:00pm Eve of Theophany Blessing of Water - Strict Fast Day Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Theophany - Greater Blessing of Water - Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Jan 7 St. John the Baptist Regular Schedule Mon Jan 8 Tue Jan 9 Wed Jan 10 At the conclusion of services, the Parish Council will receive the Oath of Office. A special presentation will be made to the members of the Parish Council ending their term. Vasilopita Luncheon - The traditional Vasilopita and Luncheon will take place after services. All proceeds benefit St. Basil s Orphanage. The ladies of Philoptochos cordially invite the community to attend. No Warm-up America Parish Council Meeting 6:00pm Men s Discussion Group Meeting at 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am First day of Greek School after holidays Young Women s Discussion Group Walking on a Peaceful Path 11:00am Community Fellowship Night 6:00-6:30pm Paraklesis 6:30-7:00pm Fellowship Meal 7:00-8:15 PM Philoptochos Meeting and GOYA Bible Study Κυρ 14 Ιαν Δευτ 15 Ιαν Τριτ 16 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Ετήσιο Μνημόσυνο της Πρεσβυτέρας Μαρίκας (Μαριάνθης) Καναβού Ο Καφές προσφέρετε στην αγαπημένη μνήμη της από την οικογένεια της Η Χριστιανική Ακαδημία θα είναι κλειστή «Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική» στον διάδρομο της εκκλησίας 9:00πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Πεμπ 17 Ιαν Του Αγίου Αθανασίου Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Κυρ 21 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Χορωδία Νήπια 3ή τάξεων Τριετές Μνημόσυνο της Μαρίας Τσατσαρώνη Εξαετές Μνημόσυνο του Χαράλαμπου Τσατσαρώνη Ο καφές προσφέρετε στις αγαπημένες μνήμες της Μαρίας και του Χαράλαμπου από την οικογένεια τους Δευτ 22 Ιαν Των Αγίων Τιμόθεου και Αναστασίου. Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Τριτ 23 Ιαν Τετ 24 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Συνάντηση της GOYA 7:00-8:15μμ Πεμπ 25 Ιαν Του Αγίου Γρηγορίου του Θεολόγου Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Κυρ 28 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Αγγελική Χορωδία τάξεων Νήπια 3 ης Τριτ 30 Ιαν Τετ 31 Ιαν Το Ελληνικό Σχολείο θα παρουσιάσει ένα πρόγραμμα προς τιμή των Τριών Ιεραρχών. Ο Καφές προσφέρετε προς τιμή των Τριών Ιεραρχών απο τους γονείς του Ελληνικού Σχολείου (GPTO) Συνεδρίαση του GPTO (γονέων τον μαθητών του Ελληνικού Σχολείου) μετα τον καφέ. Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Των Τριών Ιεραρχών GOYA μελέτη της Βίβλου 7:00-8;15μμ Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

3 Κυρ 31 Δεκ Δευτ 1 Ιαν Τριτ 2 Ιαν Τετ 3 Ιαν Παρ 5 Ιαν Σαβ 6 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Δεν θα έχουμε κατηχητικό σχολείο Ο καφές προσφέρετε από την οικογένεια του Σταύρου Μπομποτσιάρη για την αγαπημένη μνήμη του αδερφού του Κωνσταντίνου Μπομποτσιάρη. Του Αγίου Βασιλείου όρθρος 8:30μμ Θ. Λειτουργία 9:30μμ Πρωτοχρονιάτικη χοροεσπερίδα 10:00μμ-2018 Η GOYA θα επισκεφτεί όσα σπίτια μπορεί να εκφράσουν τις ευχές για το νέο έτος και να ψάλλουν τα κάλαντα. Εάν κάποιος δεν θα είναι στο σπίτι παρακαλούμε να επικοινωνήσετε με το γραφείο της εκκλησία να ενημερώσετε. Καλή Χρονιά! Το γραφείο θα είναι κλειστό Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών 6:30πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Πρώτη μέρα της Χριστιανικής Ακαδημίας μετά τις διακοπές Συνεδρίαση του Διοικητικού συμβουλίου της Φιλόπτωχου 6:00μμ Παραμονή των Θεοφανίων Νηστεία - Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Των Θεοφανίων Όρθρος- Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Κυρ 7 Ιαν Αγίου Ιωάννου του Βαπτιστή Κανονικό ωράριο Δευτ 8 Ιαν Τριτ 9 Ιαν Τετ 10 Ιαν Ορκωμοσία του νέου διοικητικού συμβουλίου μετά την Θ. Λειτουργία. Eιδική προσφορά θα δοθεί στα μέλη που τελειώνουν την υπηρεσία τους στο διοικητικό συμβούλιο. Μεσημεριανό Βασιλόπιτας- Μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία θα έχουμε το παραδοσιακό μεσημεριανό με την κοπή της Βασιλόπιτας. Όλα τα έσοδα θα δοθούν στο Ορφανοτροφείο του Αγίου Βασιλείου. Η Φιλόπτωχος προσκαλεί όλα τα μέλη της κοινότητας Δεν θα έχουμε «Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική» Συνεδρίαση του Δ. Συμβουλίου του 6:00μμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Πρώτη μέρα του Ελληνικού σχολείου μετά της διακοπές Συζήτηση Νέων Γυναικών στις 11:00πμ Κοινοτική βραδιά 6:00-6:30 μμ Παράκληση 6:30-7:00μμ Δείπνο 7:00-8:15μμ Συνεδρίαση της Φιλόπτωχου Friday, January 12 - Monday, January 14 Sun Jan 14 Mon Jan 15 Tue Jan 16 Regular Schedule Hellenic Dance Festival 1yr Memorial - Presv. Marika (Marianthe) Canavos Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Presv. Marika by her loving family. Annunciation Christian Academy closed Warm-up America in the Breezeway 9:00-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages. Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am Thu Jan 18 St. Athanasios Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Jan 21 Regular Schedule K-3rd grade Angel Choir 3yr Memorial - Maria Tsatsaronis 6yr Memorial - Haralambos Tsatsaronis Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Haralambos & Maria by their loving families. Mon Jan 22 Sts. Timothy & Anastasios Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Tue Jan 23 Wed Jan 24 Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am GOYA Meeting & Discussion 7:00-8:15pm Thu Jan 25 St Gregory the Theologian Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Jan 28 Regular Schedule K-3rd grade Angel Choir Tue Jan 30 The Greek School students will offer a brief presentation in honor of the Three Hierarchs and their contribution to education. Fellowship Hour is offered by the Greek School parents (GPTO) in honor of The Three Hierarchs. GPTO Meeting in the Greek School room after services. All parents of Greek School students are encouraged to attend. Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am The Three Hierarchs Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

4 SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 USHERS Jimmy Chrysson, Pete Bobotsiares, George Bambalis, Paula Christakos CHURCH SERV COMM Team 1 - Tom Giannopoulos, Tony Franzese, Presv. Stacy Shepherd, Paul Anthony MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 6 Athanasia Ballas, Anastasia Katsiadas READER - Ron Sheppard ALTAR BOYS Team 3 - Costa Kortesis, Alexander Marshall, Yanni Petropoulos, Mikie Ioannou, Nicholas Woody, Stavros Karagiorgis, Panagiotis Vgenopoulos, Parker Moye, Angelo Petropoulos, Evangelos Kortesis, Christos Katsoudas, John Spinosa NURSERY Christina Soriano, Irene Chamis, Nia Kazakos SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 2 - Chris Gallos, Teddy J. Tsiolkas, Angelic Carroll, Tony Vlasis MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 1 Gabriella Ballas, Athena Grisette READER - George Kalamaras ALTAR BOYS Team 4 - Vasileios Karagiannis, Stevie Raptis, Max Rogatsios, Dimitrios Mitropoulos, William Nolan, Niko Vlahos, Nektarios Vgenopoulos, Pavlos Anson, Vasili Johnson, Andreas Kazakos NURSERY Chrissy McCullough, Frances Kazakos, Kathy Koutsoupias SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 3 George Kalamaras, Virginia Moutos, Chris Spinosa, Vic Pappas MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 2 - Maria Anthony, Zoe Spanos READER - Anthony Whitley ALTAR BOYS Team 5 - Ralph Shepherd, George Raptis, Marcus Neacsu, Michael Ioannou, Matthew Moutos, John Kroustalis, Sebastian Neacsu, Harper Satterfield, Harrison Satterfield, Evangelos Paparoupas NURSERY Helen Vlasis, Jenny Morris What is CrossRoad? The CrossRoad Summer Institute is a ten-day program for Orthodox Christian high school juniors and seniors held (Session 1&2) on the campus of Hellenic College Holy Cross in Brookline, MA. Session 3 held in Chicago July Explore your vocation. Build lifelong friendships. Quench your thirst for knowledge. Step outside your comfort zone to encounter Christ in the face of your neighbor. Dive into Orthodox theology and Scripture with some of the best professors in the country. Session 1: June 16-26, 2018 Who is eligible? Orthodox Christian high school juniors and seniors Students between the ages of 16 and 18 years old Tuition: $850 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 28, 2018 Apply online today at Session 2: July 2-12, 2018 Session 3: July 21-31, 2018 For those who are accepted-you may apply for the Sophia V. Bambalis Alumni Scholarship SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 4 - Brian McFarlin, Chad Davis, Renee Kortesis, Kim Karahalios MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 3 - Ritsa Liaskonis, Maria Shepherd READER - Will Moye ALTAR BOYS Team 1 - Vaios Demopoulos, Alexandros Kalogeromitros, Yiannis Alexiou, Luke Vlahos, Vasilios Ziogas, Christos Demopoulos, Demetrios Liaskonis, John Stabolitis, John Petropoulos, William Pierce, Alex Zades NURSERY Corie Ebert, Paula Manser, Katie Kroustalis STEWARDSHIP OF TALENT It is our distinct pleasure to present to the community for a second year, the Annual Community Christmas Card written (drawn) by Marianna Liontis in honor of Christ s Nativity. Marianna s offering is from an icon named Mother and Christ-child. Anyone else in the community wishing to share such a gift/talent please call Fr. Demetri. MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR

5 In loving memory of Gregory, Robert and families by Harry & Theresa Makitka. In loving memory of our parents Anesti & Fotini Hamberis and Spero & Vasiliki Kroustalis by Nick & Katina Kroustalis. In loving memory of our parents Mary & George Fragakis and James & Dorothy Toompas by John & Sophia. In honor of Natalie, Chris, Anna, Bryan, John, Ellie, Julia, Rhodes and McLain by Mom & Dad / Yiayia & Pappou Fragakis. In loving memory of Nick Anggelis and in honor of Mel Anggelis by Kenny & Vicky Russell. In loving memory of my beloved husband & our father & grandfather, John P. Gallins and parents & grandparents Maria & Paul Gallins by Marika, Paul, Constantina, Deno, Thomas and John. In honor & good health of my family by Marika. In loving memory of Tom Moutos by Mike, Caroline and George Vlasis. In loving memory of Barbara Linton; Brandi Linton by David Linton. In loving memory of Chris & Irene Moutos and uncle Tom Moutos by George, Stamey, Chris and Spero Moutos. In loving memory of Mike Parris by Chris & Wendy Lohr. In loving memory of all my family and friends by Irene Hartung. In honor of our children Christos and Amalia and all of our family members by Apostolos & Maria Tsigas. In loving memory of my beloved husband and son and all of my loved ones by Voula Vlasis. In loving memory of Jim & Helen Tsiolkas by their children and grandchildren. In honor of my entire family by Teddy J. Tsiolkas. In loving memory of Gregory Makitka by Terri Ann, Kaitlyn, Gary Bryan. In loving memory of George K. Kalamaras by George & Angela Kalamaras. In honor of Dennis Hondros by George & Angela Kalamaras. In honor of parents Harry & Theresa Makitka by Terri Ann, Kaitlyn, Gary Bryan. For the good health of our children, George, Michael, Luke and our Godchildren Will and Athena by Ike & Kristi Vlahos. In loving memory of Irene Elefantis by her husband Aristides Elefantis and daughter Fotini Karagiorgis. In loving memory of Yiayia Barbara P. Meletis and Christos N. Ebert by The Meletis and Ebert Family. In loving memory of Toni Plumber by Victoria Blevins. In honor of my Goddaughter Julia Spinosa by Victoria Blevins. In honor of our families by Georgia & Greg Wood. We would like to thank you for beautifying our church during the Christmas Season with your loving donations in honor, in health and in memory of your beloved. If anyone s name was left off this list, we are truly sorry. STEWARDSHIP 2017 With 2017 coming to an end we would like to thank all of our Stewards for your support of Annunciation Ministries. The Stewardship list is updated on the 15th of every month. Balourdos, Chris & Eleni Boyd, Katie Chrysson, Christopher & Jennifer Chrysson, Gabriel & Sarah Cortessis, Angelo & Evridiki Hodges, Dr. Steve & Jennifer Kontos, Johnny & Kelly Kortesis, John & Renee Kortesis, Niki Kroustalis, Jim & Irene Pantazis, Bessie Raptis, Dean & Angie Stewardship 2018 Neither ice nor snow could disrupt our community Stewardship Sunday, another delicious event. The food was wonderful and Angel Choir and Greek School youth gave us all a wonderful holiday lift. A special spirit was present once again, as we gathered as a Church Community to break bread. Chris Karahalios, our Chef did a wonderful job assisted by his many helpers. Our thanks to all who helped, and to all who supported the Annunciation Ministries through Stewardship in We anticipate that by the end of December we will have met our goal for BRAVO! To date 123 Stewardship Cards have been received for We would like to thank all who responded in such a timely fashion. We would like to remind all those who have yet to respond, to do so at your earliest convenience. Remember our Stewardship basket is LARGE. It needs all of our help. May God bless you in the coming year. Dino Cortesis Bill Karahalios George Stabolitis Stewardship Committee Sabio, Antonio & Anna Simos, Terry & Marie Siokis, Konstantinos & Elizabeth Strates, Maria C. Strates, Konstandina "Tina" Strates, Thomas C. Tsolis, Constantine & Angela Vlachos, Ilias & Heather Our goal for 2017 was 410 Stewardship families. To date 406 Families have responded. Thank you Should you need a statement for IRS tax purposes, please call the Church office ( )

6 Blessing of Homes - During the Epiphany Season, Frs. Demetri, Costa and Dino (Carros) will be blessing homes by request. Please call the office ( ) before January 5 to have your home blessed. Thank you. Join us as we ring in the New Year! NEW YEAR S EVE PARTY Featuring Tasios Christou & Band from Washington, DC December 31 st 10:00 pm THE HELLENIC CENTER PRESALE $30 Adults / $15 Students 12 & Under FREE (Tickets at the door will be an additional $5) Join us for a night of greek & American music, delicious food, and a lot of fun! Champagne toast at midnight Featuring a breakfast buffet Tickets will be sold after church every Sunday for more info call Church office , Jimmy Or Mary All proceeds benefit youth ministries! The Good Samaritan helpers visited/sent cards to the following members of the Church this month: Virginia, Despina, Voula, and Marina. If you desire members of the Good Samaritan Helpers to visit you, or know of others that desire it, or those who need cards, please let one of our members know. We would also like to help those who need rides to doctors' offices or need help in other ways. Members to call are: Mary Wnentowski ; Persephone Cortessis ; Martha Dentiste ; Emily Kafant ; Nicky Hondros For the good health of our family by John & Louisa Pantazis. In loving memory of our parents, brothers and sister by Terry & Roxanne Gianopoulos. For the good health of our children, grandchildren, Godchildren, brothers and sisters by Terry & Roxanne Gianopoulos. In loving memory of Bill & Mabel Sfikas and Jim Uhl by Sfikas Family. In loving memory of my beloved husband, Gus by Emily S. Kafant. In loving memory of my husband, son, daughter-in-law, parents and in-laws by Alice Piedad. In honor of our children and grandchildren by Uly & Teddie Grisette. In honor of our family - Ken, Helene, Cameron, Connor, Dean, Mallory, Maria by Ted & Litsa Tsiolkas. In loving memory of Aristidis Gatsis by Maria and Penny Gatsis. In loving memory of my parents by Maria Gatsis. In loving memory of Pete C. Nichols by Chris Nichols. In honor of Violet Nichols by Chris Nichols. In loving memory of my Nouna Jane Emanuel by Theodora Bill Katsimbas. In honor of my Nouno Angelo Emanuel by Theodora Bill Katsimbas. In loving memory of our parents and brothers by Bill & Dina Katsimbas. In loving memory of my husband Xenophon Gallins by Bessie Gallins. In loving memory of our beloved Father & Grandfather Frank Nicholson Jr. by the Ilias Vlachos Family. In loving memory of Vaso Kazakos by Theodore Tasios Kazakos Family. In loving memory of Fotios & Dimitra Kalabokis and Dionisios Paloumbas by Jim & Maria Paloumbas. In loving memory of Tom, our beloved husband and father by Virginia, Frank and Stuart Moutos. In loving memory of Pete Nichols by Vi Nichols. In honor of my loving family by Vi Nichols. In loving memory of our parents Mr. & Mrs. William Beskas by George & Dee Beskas. In loving memory of our parents Mr. & Mrs. Chris Konomos by Dee & George Beskas. In loving memory of Sophia Bambalis by George, Chris, Peter and Nitsa Bambalis. In honor of our Annunciation Community by George & Chris Bambalis. In loving memory of Gus Stogias by his wife Maria and daughter Bessie. In loving memory of Panayioti & Anastasia Karaiskos by Maria Stogias and family. In loving memory of Vasilios & Vasiliki Stogias by Maria Stogias and family. In loving memory of our mother Mary T. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins. In loving memory of our father Paul J. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins. In loving memory of our big brother John P. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins.

7 In honor and good health of our family by Konstantinos & Evangelia Kazakos. In loving memory of Pappou Stavro Karagiorgis and Para-yiayia Anastasia Kokinos by Stavro and Victoria Karagiorgis. In loving memory of Fr. Theodore & Presv. Elisavet Kazakos, Seraphim & Georgia Ballas and Agamemnon by Gregory & Maria Ballas. In loving memory of Konstandinos (Gus) Kafant by Fr. Costa, Presv. Stacy Shepherd and family. In loving memory of Ralph & Rebecca Shepherd by Fr. Costa & Presv. Stacy Shepherd and family. In honor of our children, grandchildren, Godchildren, nieces and nephews by Fr. Costa & Presv. Stacy Shepherd. In loving memory of departed family members by Vasilios & Vasiliki Fallis. For the good health of our family by Vasilios & Vasiliki Fallis. In loving memory of my beloved husband and our father, Christo by Helen, Pete, Thomas, Maria and Konstandina Strates. In loving memory of Neal C. Delahanty by Melanie Delahanty and children. In loving memory of Mary Mavromatis by Melanie Delahanty. In loving memory of Sean & Rachel Carroll by Stan & Angelic Carroll. In loving memory of our parents by Stan & Angelic Carroll. In honor of Yiayia Eleftheria and Yiayia Zaharoula by Stavros and Maria Karagiorgis. In loving memory of departed family members by Nick & Effie Kontos. In honor of our children and grandchildren by Nick & Effie Kontos. In loving memory of Sarah by Stevan, Sue and Steve Dupor. In loving memory of my husband Nick and our parents by Mel N. Anggelis. In honor of my family by Mel N. Anggelis. In loving memory of Angelo & Georgia Vlahos by George & Olga Vlahos. In loving memory of John & Maria Mathes by Olga & George Vlahos. In loving memory of Konstantina Papathanasiou by her loving family. In loving memory of Anastas & Katherine Pantelides and Sophie Papajohn by Richard & Diana Cox and family. In loving memory of Katherine & Anastas Pantelides by Kathy Cox. In loving memory of our parents and relatives by Tasios & Stavroula Kazakos. In honor of our children and grandchildren by Tasios & Stavroula Kazakos. In honor of Savvas Papadopoulos by Dimitrios & Anastasia. In loving memory of Seraphim & Georgia Balatsia and Haralambos & Maria Tsatsaronis by John & Penny Ballas and family. For the good health of our families by John & Penny Ballas. In loving memory of George & Bessie Papadis and Angelo & Georgia Pantazis by John & Louisa Pantazis. Happy New Year! We ended 2017 celebrated the Holiday at our Christmas Social. It is always nice making memories with our fellow members while enjoying some refreshments. Thank you, Effie, for opening up your home to us again this year. As we bring in the New Year, we will be holding our Membership Drive between January 1st through March 31st. Please join us for Margaritas, Meza (appetizers) and Membership at 7PM, Wednesday, January 10th. We have some activities we would like to plan for 2018, so come and have a voice as we make decisions on what we want to tackle for the rest of the year. We ve had a great start, so let s keep the momentum going. In Christ's Love, Kiki Gonzales For with God, all things are possible. LUKE 1:37 Ευτυχισμένο το νέο έτος! Φτάνοντας στο τέλος του 2017, γιορτάζουμε τα Χριστουγέννα στη γενική μας συνέλευση.είναι πάντα ωραία να μοιράζεσαι αναμνήσεις με τους συναδέλφους, απολαμβάνοντας ένα ποτό ή αναψυκτικό. Ευχαριστούμε Effie, για την φιλοξενία για μια ακόμη χρονιά! Μετά τον ερχομό του νέου έτους, θα τρέξουμε το Drive Membership μεταξύ της 1ης Ιανουαρίου και της 31ης Μαρτίου. Σας προσκαλούμε λοιπόν την Τετάρτη 10 Ιανουαρίου στις 7 μμ να ερθετε για ένα ποτό ή ορεκτικό, και παρακαλείστε και για την ετήσια συνδρομή. Επίσης θα προγραμματίσουμε τις δραστηριότητες για το Έλατε να πείτε την γνώμη σας και να αποφασίσουμε μαζί ως προς το πώς θα κινηθούμε την υπόλοιπη χρονιά. Είχαμε μια καλή αρχή, οπότε ας συνεχίσουμε με την ίδιο ζήλο και στη συνέχεια. Εν Χριστώ αγάπη, Κική Γκονζάλες - God Sent Forth His Son - When the time had fully come prophetically, politically, linguistically, morally and religiously God sent forth His Son. Not prophets any more. Not patriarchs any more. Not priests. Not angels from heaven. Not kings. But His own Son. In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world (Hebrews 1:1-2). God cared enough to send His very best. He spared not His own son. But last of all he sent unto them his Son, saying, They will reverence my Son.

8 Prayer List As members of an Orthodox Christian family, we are called upon to pray for each other in time of need. Please pray for: On behalf of the Parish Council, I would like to wish all of the community a Blessed New Year! Stella, Thomas, Marina, Virginia, Frankie, Stuart, Despina, Paul, Maria, Pete, Spiro, Demetri and the extended family, Mary, Mel If you would like us to remember you or your loved one in our prayers, please contact our Church office at We will begin with a fresh list of names every month. Parish Council News We would like to thank ALL who accepted nominations for Parish Council. The following were elected to serve: Sammy J. Ballas, Sammy Gianopoulos, Greg Karagiorgis, The Honorable Ted Kazakos, John Kortesis, Peter C. Strates They will be serving for 2018 & Our thanks to the nomination committee comprised of George Bambalis, Stan Carroll, Paula Christakos and Nick Karagiorgis. Our sincere appreciation is expressed to the Parish Council members who have completed their term of office: Helen Bambalis, Ody Chamis, Jimmy Chrysson, Sammy Gianopoulos, Nick Karagiorgis and Jim Paloumbas. We thank them for their desire to lead our community with dedication and love. A small gift will be offered in behalf of the community on Sunday, January 8. George Bambalis President, Parish Council Χρονια Πολλα και Καλη Χρονια!!! We are looking forward to another wonderful year but like always it will be off to a very busy start. Greek School Classes will resume on Wednesday January 10th. The children will be working on the Three Hierarchs Performance that will be on Sunday January 28th in the sanctuary after church services. We will also be hosting Coffee Hour that day in Honor of the Three Hierarchs. I will be sending out a sign-up Genius for that. Also on that day after the Coffee hour we will be having our first GPTO meeting of this school year. We have tried to cut back on the number of meetings because we know you are all really busy so we need all parents to be in attendance for this one. We appreciate your continued support. In Christ, Heather Vlachos CHRISTMAS DONATIONS The white poinsettia that adorned our Altar for the Christmas Season was given in loving memory of our Beloved Father George Thalassinos by the members of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. The red poinsettias that were placed on the solea were in loving memory and in honor of the following: In memory of my loving husband, Angelo D. Kortesis from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis In memory of Dimitriou, Vasiliki, and Olga Kortesis and George and Anastasia Vlahos from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis In memory of Yiannis Vonortas, George C. Vlahos, Tom G. Vlahos, Stefanos and Margarita Drosinis, Konstantina Pappas and Janice Cude from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis For the Blessed Health of my children, grandchildren and family members from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis For the Health and Happiness of our family, Ricke, Jimmie, Michelle, Erica, George, JoAnn, Frederica, Konstantina, Angelo, Tracie, Brandon, Michaela, Caitlyn, Jackson, Logan, and Maggie from Richard and Bessie Epes. In loving memory of our family members who walk with God and are truly missed from the Epes Family In loving memory of Sarandis & Sophia Kangelaris by Fr. Demetri, Presbytera Olga and family. In honor of Harry & Maria Koukos 67th wedding anniversary by Fr. Demetri, Presbytera Olga and family. In loving memory of Webb Smalling by Sandy and family. In loving memory of Andrew Carros and Jim & Helen Tsiolkas by Helen Carros Tsiolkas and family. In loving memory of departed family members by Tom & Anna Giannopoulos. For the good health of our family by Tom & Anna Giannopoulos. In loving memory of our parents and siblings by John & Elizabeth Strates. For the good health of our family by John & Elizabeth Strates. In loving memory of our father and grandfather Tom Leloudis by Bobby & Gogo Leloudis and family. In loving memory of our father Tom Leloudis by George & Lina Leloudis. For the good health of my children and grandchildren by Sia Leloudis. In loving memory of Stefano, Virginia, Panagiote and Maria by Gus & Bessie Strates. In honor and good health of our children and grandchildren by Gus & Bessie Strates. In loving memory of Alex Fragakis. In loving memory of Andra Fragakis. In loving memory of our parents and sons by James & Stavroula Hodges. In honor of our children and grandchildren by James & Stavroula Hodges. In loving memory of our parents by Konstantinos & Evangelia Kazakos.

9 Annunciation Christian Academy Christmas Program Sunday School News from Annunciation Happy New Year! May Jesus light shine on all of us in the upcoming year. The Sunday School students were excellent stewards during the Stewardship Luncheon that took place on December 10th. Our Angel Choir (grades K-6) did a fantastic job singing Christmas songs and getting us all into the spirit of Christmas. We want to thank Mrs. Connie and Ms. Sandy for organizing such a wonderful program for our parish to enjoy. Calendar 12/31 1/7 1/14 1/21 1/28 No Sunday School Regular Schedule Regular Schedule Angel Choir (K-3) Angel Choir (K-3) Looking ahead On February 4th, Godparent/Godchild Sunday will take place and there will be no Sunday School. Students are encouraged to invite their godparents and/or someone special to attend the Liturgy with them. Please be looking for more information on this. Additionally, the following dates have been scheduled for the Oratorical Festival: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!! March 11th: Junior Division March 18th: Senior Division Please contact Bessie Epes or Ted Kazakos if you are interested in participating. With Service in Christ, Fr. Demetri, Fr. Costa & Sunday School Coordinators Zoe Bobotsiares, Helen Karagiorgis & Heather Vlachos - When the Time Had Fully Come But when the time had fully come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons (Gal. 4:4-5). Like a doctor, God stood by the side of suffering humanity for centuries listening carefully to man s spiritual breathing and taking the pulse of his soul. Suddenly, when the time had fully come, He decided that the time had come for surgery. It was to be such delicate surgery that the Master surgeon decided to come down from heaven to perform the surgery Himself.

10 ANNUNCIATION YOUTH NEWS JANUARY 2018 HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! CALENDAR OF EVENTS GOYA to meet at church at 1:00pm for Annual tradition of the Kalanda (parent driver volunteers needed) Wednesday January 10th: Community Fellowship Night Worship: 6:00pm-6:30 Meal: 6:30pm-7:00pm GOYA Bible Study Miracles of Christ : 7:00pm-8:30pm Wednesday January 24th: GOYA meeting and Discussion with special guest speaker Fr. Konstandinos Carros LET US ATTEND WINTER YOUTH RALLY 2017 As you are reading this bulletin the GOYA is probably returning from The Metropolis of Atlanta Winter Youth Rally. This year we a group of 39 participants, chaperones and clergy travel to Atlanta. We had a Bible Bowl Team, two ladies volleyball teams a Jr. Division Young Men s team and a Sr. Division Young Men s team compete in basketball. We thank you for your many prayers of support for our youth, their parents, coaches, chaperones, and clergy as they participate in these events. Please watch for photos in next month s bulletin Monday January 1st: HAPPY NEW YEAR!