OUR LENTEN JOURNEY FEBRUARY 2018

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1 GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 435 KEATING DRIVE WINSTON-SALEM, NC ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL PLEASE EXPEDITE FEBRUARY 2018 Non-Profit Organiz. U.S. Postage Winston-Salem, NC Permit # 168 BIBLE READING In private study, when a Christian profitably reads the Bible, receiving inspiration and strength from it, family members, friends, relatives and even acquaintances will inevitably notice the difference. Any person who comes into contact with such a Christian cannot but notice the growing peace, love and inner assurance - the spirit of Christ - in that Christian, and will frequently ask (if not ask, certainly think) what gives that person such strength and radiance. God will provide many opportunities to the growing Christian for sharing with others his or her experience with the Bible. What better witness for the truth of the Christian faith than a solid Christian life nourished by Holy Scripture and radiating true Christian love at home, at Church and at work? The Christian's own life becomes a kind of gospel, a living Bible, in which other people observe, read and experience the truths of God in action. From Bread for Life, by Father Theodore Stylianopoulos Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education OUR LENTEN JOURNEY PREPARING FOR THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD Great Lent is a time for self-examination and self-denial a time for taking control of our lives and our bodies. The purpose of the fast is to give us a greater awareness of our dependence on God. It is a time to improve ourselves and our relationship with God. Lent is a time for greater works of mercy and charity for those less fortunate than us. It is a time for visitation of the sick and assistance to the poor, and generally a more joyful relationship with those who are close to us our family and friends. Most of all, Lent is a time of joy and a new beginning. We cleanse ourselves mind, body and soul through the physical and spiritual fast, keeping a Christian attitude in all that we do. All this is done to prepare us for the Great Feast of Pascha the Resurrection of Christ. This brochure has been compiled to assist you on your Lenten Journey, guiding you in fasting, prayer, repentance & confession, Bible reading and in receiving Holy Communion. May God bless you and guide you, and may you reach your Paschal destination with the joy of renewed faith in Christ. Continued in the middle of the bulletin DEPARTMENT OF STEWARDSHIP, OUTREACH & EVANGELISM GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA

2 Fri Feb 2 The Presentation of our Lord Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Feb 4 Godparent/Godchild Sunday Souper Bowl Sunday Sunday School for 3yr & 4yr olds only. Adult Sunday School 9:15am. The Youth are encouraged to sit with their Godparents. All are encouraged to prepare for Holy Communion. Mon Feb 5 Tue Feb 6 Wed Feb 7 Sat Feb 10 Recognition of all Winter Youth Rally & HDF participants, advisors, coaches and chaperones. Fellowship Hour is offered by George & Olga Vlahos family in honor of family birthdays and George & Olga s 61st Anniversary. Warm up America in the Breezeway 9-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages. Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am Philoptochos Board Meeting 6:00pm. GOYA Meeting & Discussion Lent and the Sacrament of Confession 7:00-8:15pm 1st Saturday of Souls - St. Haralambos Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Trisagion will be offered at the cemetery after services & Fellowship Hour has been completed. Sun Feb 11 Meatfare Sunday Regular Schedule 4th-6th grade Angel Choir Adult Sunday School 9:15am. Mon Feb 12 Fellowship Hour - Open Warm up America in the Breezeway 9-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages. Parish Council Meeting 6:00pm Δευτ 19Φεβ Αρχή της Μεγάλης Νηστείας Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική στον διάδρομο της Εκκλησίας 9:00 12:00 HOPE & JOY Συνεδρίαση και Εξομολόγηση 6:00-7:15μμ Τριτ 20Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Τετ 21 Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Προαγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 700μμ Παρακαλούμε να φέρετε το αγαπημένο σας φαγητό για να συνδειπνήσουμε. Παρ 23 Φεβ Α Χαιρετισμοί 7:00μμ. Σαβ 24 Φεβ Τρίτο Ψυχοσάββατο Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Κυρ 25 Φεβ Κυριακή της Ορθοδοξίας Τα παιδιά από νήπια 2α τάξη θα συμμετάσχουν στην περιφορα των εικόνων. Παρακαλούμε να φέρετε μια εικόνα από το σπίτι Ο Kαφές - ανοιχτός Δευτ 26 Φεβ Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική στον διάδρομο της Εκκλησίας 9:00 12:00 Τριτ 27 Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Τετ 28 Φεβ Θρησκευτική Συζήτηση 9:30πμ Προαγιασμένη Θεία Λειτουργία 700μμ Παρακαλούμε να φέρετε το αγαπημένο σας φαγητό για να συνδειπνήσουμε. Tue Feb 13 Wed Feb 14 Sat Feb 17 Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am Philoptochos General Meeting 6:00pm Young Ladies Discussion Group 11:00am Things from which we Fast 2nd Saturday of Souls Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Feb 18 Cheese Fare Sunday Regular Schedule 4th-6th grade Angel Choir Adult Sunday School 9:15am. Oratorical Festival Fellowship Hour is offered by The Daughters of Evrytania. They will be selling laganes, kites, octopus, gigantes, halva - just a few traditional foods eaten on Kathari Deftera (Clean Monday). Ala Carte pricing. Free Kite with a $25.00 purchase or more.

3 Παρ 2 Φεβ Κυρ 4 Φεβ Η Υπαπαντή του Κυρίου- Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Κυριακή των αναδόχων και αναδεικτικών - Τα παιδιά πρέπει να καθίσουν με τους αναδόχους. Κατηχητικό για παιδιά 3 ων και 4 ων χρόνων Αναγνώριση των συμμετάσχοντων στο Ελληνικό Φεστιβάλ Χορού και στην Χειμερινή συνάθροιση της Νεολαίας. Ο Καφές προσφέρετε από την οικογένεια του Γιώργου & Όλγας Βλάχου προς τιμή των γενεθλίων τους και της 61ή επετείου του Γιώργου & Όλγας. Δευτ 5 Φεβ Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική στον διάδρομο της Eκκλησίας 9:00 12:00 Τριτ 6 Φεβ Τετ 7 Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Συνέλευση του Διοικητικού συμβουλίου της Φιλόπτωχου 6:00μμ Συνάντηση και συζήτηση της GOYA με θέμα «Νηστεία και Εξομολόγηση» 7:00-8:15μμ Σαβ 10 Φεβ Πρώτο Ψυχοσάββατο Του Αγίου Χαραλάμπους Όρθρος Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Τρισάγιο θα προσφέρετε στο Nεκροταφείο μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία Κυρ 11 Φεβ Κυριακή της Κρεατοφάγου - Κανονικό ωράριο Αγγελική χορωδία 4 η -6 ης τάξεων Ο Kαφές - ανοιχτός Δευτ12 Φεβ Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική στον διάδρομο της Eκκλησίας 9:00 12:00 Συνεδρίαση του Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου 6:00μμ Τριτ 13 Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ Τετ 14 Φεβ Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ Συνεδρίαση της Φιλόπτωχου στις 6:00μμ Συζήτηση νέων γυναικών 11:00πμ «Πράγματα από τα οποία νηστεύουμε» Σαβ 17 Φεβ Δεύτερο Ψυχοσάββατο Κυρ 18 Φεβ Κυριακή της Τυροφάγου Κανονικό ωράριο 3 ης και 4 ης τάξεων Αγγελική χορωδία Όρθρος & Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ Ο Καφές προσφέρετε από της Θυγατέρες της Ευρυτανίας. Οι Θυγατέρες της Ευρυτανίας θα πουλάνε λαγάνες, χταπόδι, γίγαντες, χαρταετούς και άλλα διάφορα είδη για την καθαρά Δευτέρα. Δωρεάν χαρταετός με αγορά πάνω από $25. Mon Feb 19 Tue Feb 20 Wed Feb 21 Fri Feb 23 Great Lent Begins Warm up America in the Breezeway 9-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages. HOPE & JOY Meeting & Confession 6:00-7:15pm Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am Presanctified Liturgy 7:00pm Please bring your favorite Lenten dish to share after service 1st Salutations 7:00pm Sat Feb 24 3rd Saturday of Souls Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Sun Feb 25 Mon Feb 26 Tue Feb 27 Wed Feb 28 Sunday of Orthodoxy - Regular Schedule Adult Sunday School 9:15am. At the conclusion of services the youth from Kindergarten-2nd grade will participate in a procession of icons. Please bring your favorite icon from home. No Angel Choir Practice. Fellowship Hour - Open Warm up America in the Breezeway 9-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages. Men s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am Adult Discussion 9:30am Presanctified Liturgy 7:00pm Please bring your favorite Lenten dish to share after service PARISH COUNCIL MEETING UPDATE The following items of note resulted from business discussed at the January 8, 2018 Parish Council meeting: George Bambalis reported on Iconography & Interior Design ideas that are being researched: a panel by the choir loft, areas below the side wall icons & a possible ceiling & lighting project. Topic of adding committee members to Parish Council from 12 to 14. This is in early stages & would have to be added to our bylaws. The new driveway between the two homes on Kinnamon Road will be underway in late January, connecting our property to 3508 Kinnamon Road. Teams for Parish Council were planned & rotations of service will be organized as in years past.

4 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4- Godparent/Godchild Sunday USHERS All Members MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 4 Mara Kessler, Jackie Nikas, Corina Hellmer READER Chris Lohr ALTAR BOYS Team 2 - Demetri Hodges, Nicholas Rizos, Chris G. Moutos, Terry Rizos, Danny Gallos, Demetri Kortesis, Spero Moutos, George Sechrest, Christian Gallos, Jack Nolan NURSERY Mary Paloumbas, Helen Sialmas, Stella Tsiaras SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 USHERS Ilias Vlachos, Maria Tsigas, Johnny Kortesis, Sammy Gianopoulos CHURCH SERV COMM Team 2 - Chris Gallos, Teddy J. Tsiolkas, Angelic Carroll, Tony Vlasis MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 5 Alexandra Augoustides, Jasmine Marshall READER Dr. Chris Baker 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 Lauren Kazakos, Kelly Kontos, Angela Tsolis SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 USHERS Stan Carroll, Greg Karagiorgis, Paula Christakos, Ted Kazakos CHURCH SERV COMM Team 3 George Kalamaras, Virginia Moutos, Chris Spinosa, Vic Pappas MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 6 Athanasia Ballas, Anastasia Katsiadas READER - Ron Sheppard 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 Christina Soriano, Irene Chamis, Nia Kazakos SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 USHERS George Bambalis, Pete Bobotsiares, Pete C. Strates, Sammy J. Ballas CHURCH SERV COMM Team 4 - Brian McFarlin, Chad Davis, Renee Kortesis, Kim Karahalios MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 1 Gabriella Ballas, Athena Grisette READER - George Kalamaras 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 Chrissy McCullough, Frances Kazakos, Kathy Koutsoupias Parish Council News At the first gathering of the Parish Council, the following persons were elected to serve as officers: President - Stan Carroll Vice President - Sammy Gianopoulos Secretary - Paula Christakos Asst. Secretary - Ted Kazakos Treasurer - Pete Bobotsiares Asst. Treasurer - Maria Tsigas Asst. Treasurer - Greg Karagiorgis The remaining members are: Sammy J. Ballas, George Bambalis, Johnny Kortesis, Pete C. Strates, Ilias Vlachos Please keep them in your prayers. Please go up to them and volunteer to help them. Votanopoulos, DrsKonstantinos & Katerina Walker, Drs. George & Veronica White, Helen & Kyle Wickert, Charlotte Windham, Anna and Bryan Wise, Jerry & Fran Wood, Greg & Georgia Xenikakis, Vasilios & Maria Xhaferi, Tani & Albana Younts, Libby Cheros Ziogas, George & Maria Ziogas, Ilias & Fotini STEWARDSHIP 2018 Update To date, 202 cards have been returned in support of Annunciation. Our goal is 410. Have you turned in your Stewardship Card? Senior Citizens Gathering - We have been invited by St. Nektarios Seniors to join them for Lunch and a program on Thursday, March 8th at their church. We will carpool!! The first 14 reservations we receive will ride on our church bus. Please join us on a free trip. We will be departing from Annunciation at 10:30. Reservations should be made by calling the Church Office ( ).

5 Katsis, Theodora Katsoudas, Dimitrios & Aphroditi Kazakos, Anastasios & Stavroula Kazakos, Konstantinos & Evangelia Kazakos, Theodore T. & Eleftheria Konstantopoulos, Mike & Andree Kontos, George Kontos, Nick & Effie Kontos, Olga Kortesis, Ricke Kostopanagiotis, Gus & Joanne Koutsoupias, George & Kathy Kranis, Manuel & Helen Kroustalis, Christopher & Kia Kroustalis, Rose Lazaris, Elaine Lazaris, Pete D. Legeros, John Leloudis, Bobby & Georgia Leloudis, Sia Logan, Jan Lohr, Chris & Wendy Mackaronis, Georganne Macropoulos, Chris & Lori Makitka, Harry & Theresa Mastoras, Pete & Dina Mathes, Arthur & Kim Mathes, Nick & Maria Meimaris, Emmanuel & Achamyelesh Meletis, Peter & Vivian Moutos, Stuart Moutos, Mrs. Virginia Moye, William & Kelly Neacsu, Marian & Daniela Nichols, Chris Nichols, Violet Olympio, Drs. Mike & Georgia Olympio, Helena Orfanedes, George & Susan Palamaris, Stefanos & Constandina Paloumbas, Jim & Maria Paloumbas, Katherine Pantazis, Bessie Pantazis, John & Louisa Papakonstantinou, Chris & Vicky Papanikolaou, Sotirios & Soula Papathanasiou, Evangelos Pappas, Barbara Pappas, Charles Pappas, John J. and Rommie Pappas, John V. Pappas, Victor & Susan Pepper, Eric & Chelsea Piedad, Alice Pierce, Sterling & Cynthia Price, Walker Price, William Quint, Angelia Rizos, Dino & Joanna Rizos, Nick & Eftihia Rogatsios, Sam & Emily Russell, Dr. Kenny & Vicky Samaras, Nick & Efrosene Sanos, Marea Gekas Satterfield, Dr. Bill & Vera Sechrest, Stacy Shepherd, Fr. Costa & Stacy Sheppard, Ron & Vicki Simos, Paul & Susan Simos, Terry & Marie Sklapanis, Pete & Anthoula Smalling, Mrs. Alexandra W. Sorescu, Mugurel & Ioana Mihaela Apolta Spanos, Paul & Kathryn Stabolitis, George & Ashley Stabolitis, John & Bessie Stogias, Maria Strates, John & Elizabeth Strates, Pete G. & Jessica Stutts, Debra Swaim, Dan & Robin Tasios, Jim & Helen Toompas, Jimmie Jr. & Kim Tsatsaronis, Kosta & Litsa Tsigas, Apostolos & Maria Tsiolkas, Helen Carros Tsiolkas, Ted & Litsa Tsolis, Constantine & Angela Uhl, Helen Sfikas Vasilos, Thomas Vlachos, Ilias & Heather Vlachos, John & Maria Vlahos, Chris & Voula Vlahos, Fr. George & Presv. Betsy Vlahos, George & Olga Vlahos, Ike & Kristi Vlahos, James & Marika Vlahos, Maria Vlasis, Voula Vonsiatsky, Robyne 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: Persephone, Margarita, John, Alex, Maria, Despina 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. The Good Samaritan helpers visited/sent cards to the following members of the Church this month: Persephone, Margarita, Helen, John, JoAnn. Greetings Greek School Families, Once again our students have touched us with their talents. They did such a wonderful job honoring the Three Hierarches. BRAVO!!! A big thank you to all who contributed items for the coffee hour honoring the Three Hierarches. We are now in full on preparation for the March 25th program so please encourage your children to practice. This year is extra special since our celebration will fall on March 25th. We are looking forward to an awesome celebration. Thanks You for your continued support. Heather Vlachos News from Hellenic Dance Festival Congratulations to our dancers for their outstanding performances the weekend of January 12-15th! They did so well! Attached are the outcomes of their performances: Oi Dopyoi (4 th -6 th graders), directed by Stavros Karagiorgis and Lisa Siokis, won a Platinum medal, placing first in their division. They also won the Choral award for best choral/ singing presentation in their category. Ta Palikaria (7 th -10 th graders), directed by Chelsea Pepper and Katerina Marantou, won a Gold medal, placing second in their division. We are so proud of their commitment to Greek Paradosi. They worked very hard with great determination to succeed and with admirable passion for their Hellenic culture. Parents and chaperones, thank you for supporting our efforts. You re the best. Dancers, thank you for setting such a high standard of commitment, hard work, respect, and passion for our future generation of dancers. We are so proud of you! FUTURE EVENTS and ANNOUNCEMENTS: Greek festival practice will commence on February 27 th at 5pm-6pm for grades K-12. If you haven t yet, please go online and register for festival dance. Should you have any questions, please call or text our wonderful Registration Chair, Helen Sialmas, at She ll have an answer. March 25 th program will be presented on Sunday, March 25 th this year. Greek Festival is May th. Please keep an eye open for further announcements about costumes and any additional practices. In Christ s service, Lisa Siokis

6 INVITATION FROM THE LADIES OF PHILOPTOCHOS Dear Fellow Parishioner, The Ladies of Philoptochos invites you to become a member of our society. The Philoptochos has been an instrumental force in helping the less fortunate. As the right hand of our church, we are committed to do God s work. We have an obligation to help those who are in need and those whose hopes and dreams have had to be set aside due to their misfortunes and sometimes temporary hardships. Meetings are mostly held monthly in our church s breezeway and Membership is based on a stewardship commitment of $27. The amount covers our obligation to the National Per Capital ($15), the Metropolis Per Capital ($7), and that leaves an additional $5 for our local. For those who feel they cannot afford to take up another financial commitment, please offer whatever you are able to give. No amount is too small or too large and all offers will be accepted. We realize that there may be some of you who are not able to commit, but the important factor is to become a member so that you will have a voice in all decisions concerning our society. Your views and opinions are important, and your time and talents can be instrumental in helping the less fortunate. In addition to helping those in need, we routinely gather to build friendships and memories. This month we are planning a trip to the Barn Dinner Theater in Greensboro and Group Discounted Tickets can be purchased after Sunday service for $55 per person (cost covers, dinner, show, gratuity and tax). The show is a Comedy called The Service at Rocky Bluff about a church that has issues with a committee wanting to steal their pastor away. Everyone is welcome to attend, so grab your friend, husband, or both, and join us. This month, our General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 13 th at 6:00 pm. We will be celebrating Valentine s Day with a little demonstration on how to put together plants for gift-giving and a special treat will be passed out to everyone to take home or share it with a loved one. As the President of this worthy society, I urge you to consider joining, whether it is for the first time or after being absent in past years. No one is too old to join, but you must be at least 18 years old. I thank you for your time and consideration. In Christ's Love, Kiki Gonzales For with God, all things are possible. LUKE 1:37 Η φιλόπτωχος Αδελφότητα είναι ενόργανης Δύναμη η οποία βοηθεί δυστυχησμένους άνθρώπους. Με άλλα λόγια είναι το δεξί χέρι της Εκκλησίας μας και είμαστε υποχρεωμένοι να κάνομε το έργο του Θεού. Εμείς έχουμε την υποχρέωση να βοηθήσουμε εκείνους που έχουν ανάγκη και φυσικά εκείνους που οι ελπίδες και τα όνειρα τους έχουν περιορισθή από τις ατυχίες της καθημερινής ζωής. Συνεδριάσεις συνήθως γίνονται κάθε μήνα είς το μπριζγοέη της Εκκλησίας μας και η 2018 STEWARDSHIP LIST Listed below are the members who have turned in their Stewardship Cards as of January 20. Should there have been an omission, please call the office. Anggelis, Mel Anghelescu, Anton & Carmen Assimos, Dr. Dean & Jan Ball, Rita Ballas, Gregory & Maria Ballas, Gus & Soula Ballas, Jim & Dimitra Ballas, John & Penny Balourdos, Gus & Panagiota Balourdos, John Bambalis, George & Chris Bambalis, Helen Bambalis, Nitsa Beskas, George & Demetra (Dee) Blevins, Maria V Blevins, Victoria Blevins, Zachary Boyd, Katie Budygin, Evgeny & Elena Burns, Andrew & Dr. Marianthe Carroll, Stan & Angelic Carros, James & Anthoula Carros, Nick & Xanthe Chamis, Mrs. Mary Chamis, Odysseus & Irene Christakos, Dr. Chris & Paula Chrysson, James & Rita Chrysson, Paul & Mary Cortesis, Dino & Leigh Cortesis, Persephone Cortessis, Andy & Kelli Cortessis, Evan Coudoures, George & Catherine Davis, Chad & Effie Delahanty, Melanie Doumas, Harold Doumas, Louis & Litsa Dupuy, Freddy & Aglaia (Gail) Elefantis, Harry Fallis, Vasilios & Bessie Faughnan, William & Christina Floros, Gus & Margarita Fragakis, John & Sophia Fragakis, Leni Fragakis, Vicki Franzese, Tony & Toula Futris, Gus & Afrodity Gallins, Bessie Gallins, Harry & Marsha Gallins, Teddy & Helen Gallins, Mrs. Maria F. Gallos, Chris & Kendra Gatsis, Maria Gatsis, Penny Georgoulias, Kiki Georgoulias, Mike & Rita Gianopoulos, Sam & Yiota Grisette, Uly III & Tonya Grisette, Ulysses & Teddie Hodges, Dr. Steve & Jennifer Holton, Campion & Natalie Hondos, Dina Hondros, Chris & Nicky Hondros, Karen Janos, Dimitra (Dia) Janos, Kosta Janos, Roula Jensen, Gary & Aphrodite Johns, Eva Jorizzo, Dr. Joseph & Irene Kafant, Mrs Emily Kakouras, Theofanis Kalamaras, George & Angela Kalogeromitros, Constantine & Vasiliki Kalogeromitros, Demitrios & Loukia Kalogeromitros, Chrysost & Theodora Kandara, Estelle Kandara, John Kangelaris, Fr. Demetri & Presv. Olga Kangelaris, Michael Kappas, Angeliki (Kiki) Karagiannis, Angelo & Andrea Karagiorgis, Eleftheria Karagiorgis, Fotini Karagiorgis, Nick & Stacey Karagiorgis, Stavros N. Karagiorgis, Victoria Karahalios, Bill & Athena Katsiadas, Christos & Alexandra Katsimbas, Bill & Dina

7 Take advantage of the time!! Annunciation Christian Academy Christmas Celebration STEWARDSHIP 2017 Due to the fact that we had to print the January bulletin early in order to mail it before Christmas, the following 2017 Stewards were received after the bulletin was mailed. Ballas, John & Penny Ballas, Sam & Fay Costas, George Gus III Gonzales, Joe & Vasiliki (Kiki) Hellmer, Chris & Maria Johns, Eva Marshall, Scott & Connie Paloumbas, Dennis & Mary Pitovski, Dr. Dimitri and Mirjana Great Lent (which begins Monday, February 19 th ) is a period of time the church sets aside for us to pray, reflect, simplify our lives and progress in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Lent is a spiritual journey that offers us an opportunity to experience the presence of Christ in our lives; to understand His ministry of compassion; and to appreciate both the glory of His sacrificial passion and His glorious resurrection from the dead. Take advantage of this time! Be good to yourself by committing to the Lenten discipline that the Church prescribes: to read the scriptures, to abstain from certain foods, and to ask forgiveness from those you have wronged. Participate in the Church s call to look forward to the good things to come and to look into the condition of our souls. Please come to the Lenten services that will be offered at our Church. These services are so powerful! They will make you feel better, calm your soul, quiet your mind and feed your hungering soul. Yours in Christ. Stan Carroll Parish Council President Smith, Dr. Lane & Katherine (Kathy) Strates, Spiro & Stella Vonsiatsky, Andre Xenikakis, Vasilios & Maria Our goal for 2017 was 410 Stewardship families. For 2017: 418 Families have responded. WELL DONE!! συνάδελφο της στηρίζεται είς την οικονομικήν επιστασία των 27 δολαρίων. Το ποσόν αυτό καλύπτει τις υποχρεώσεις μας. Προς την εθνικήν, Αρχιεπισκοπή, 15 δολλαρίων, Μητρόπολης 7 δολλαρίων και παραμένει περίσσευμα 5 δολλαρίων εις το τοπικό σώματείο. Καταλαβαίνουμε ότι μερικά άτομα πιθανώς να μην μπορούν να αποφασίσουν αλλά όμως ο κύριος λόγος είναι να γίνουν μέλη ούτως ώστε να έχουν το λέγειν εις τις αποφάσεις που αφορούν την κοινωνία μας και εκφράζουν τη γνώμη τους. Προσθέτοντας, βοηθώντας εκείνους στεις ανάγκες της ζωής, η Φιλόπτωχος Αδελφότητα τακτικά ενεργεί και αναπτύσσει φιλίες και καλές αναμνήσεις. Τον επόμενoν μήνα σχεδιάζει ταξίδι εις το Barn Dinner Εισιτήρια χαμηλότερης τιμής μπορούν να προμηθευτούν μετά το τέλος Θείας Λειτουργίας. Τιμή δολλαρίων το άτομο και περιλαμβάνει : Γεύμα, πρόγραμα, τυχερά, φόρο. Το πρόγραμα Είναι Κομωδία, ονομάζεται : Rocky Bluff. Η επόμενη συνεδρίαση θα γίνει : Τρίτη, Φεβρουαρίου 13,6:00 μμ. Θα γιορτάσουμε το Valentines Day εις το Gold Leaf Flower Shop. Ελάτε θα περάσουμε όμορφα Σας έυχαριστώ, Με την Αγάπη του Χριστού, Βασιλική Gonzales Sunday School News from the Annunciation Students and families. On February 4 th Godparent/Godchild Sunday will take place. Students are encouraged to invite their Godparents and/or someone special to attend the Liturgy with them. We also want to remind parents and students that there will NOT be Sunday school so that they can participate in the Divine Liturgy with their Godparents. Calendar 2/4 Godparent/Godchild Sunday and Souper Bowl Charity Drive 2/11 Angel Choir Grades 4-6 2/18 Angel Choir Grades 4-6 2/25 Sunday of Orthodoxy-At the conclusion of services the youth from Kindergarten- 2nd grade will participate in a procession of icons. Please bring your favorite icon from home. No Angel Choir Practice. Also, the following dates have been scheduled for the Oratorical Festival: March 11 for the Junior division March 18 for the Senior division With Service in Christ, Fr. Demetri, Fr. Costa & Sunday school coordinators; Zoe Bobotsiares, Helen Karagiorgis, and Heather Vlachos A number of Christmas greetings and poinsettia donations came in after the deadline. A Blessed Christmas to all our Church family is wished by: Marina Yartzeff In loving memory of our parents and brothers by Nick & Effie Rizos. In honor of our family (kids, grandkids and great grandkids) by Nick & Effie Rizos

8 Once again we will be taking food donations to support the Souper Bowl of Caring Program on Sunday February 4th. Please bring in a canned food donation to support a local food bank and we will also pass a special tray to support IOCC, International Orthodox Christian Charities, in their work to help people around the globe. FEBRUARY 2018 ANNUNCIATION YOUTH NEWS FEBRUARY Events Sunday February 4th Godparent Godchild Sunday Recognition of Youth for WYR/HDF SOUPER BOWL of Caring Wednesday February 7th GOYA Meeting and Discussion. Topic is Great Lent and the Sacrament of Confession Monday February 19th HOPE and JOY 6:00pm 7:15pm, Introduction to and Confession for kids with Fr. Demetri Congratulations to all our Winter Youth Rally and Hellenic Dance Festival participants. We were very successful in our competitions at the Winter Youth Rally winning 3rd place in the Boys Senior Division basketball, second place in the Boys Junior Division basketball and 1st and 3rd place in Ladies Volleyball. Our Bible Bowl placed 8th out of 41 teams in the Bible Bowl competition. Our dance troupes at HDF were also successful with our primary division team Oi Dopyoi winning first place and our older group Palikaria winning second place. Please join us on Sunday February 4th, to recognize them and HDF participants and all the advisors, instructors and coaches at the end of services.

9 HOLY COMMUNION The Sacrament of Holy Communion the Eucharist which literally means "Thanksgiving," is the Mystery whereby the bread and wine of offering are changed, actually, not symbolically, into the very Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. The Eucharist is at the very center of the Church's life, and from it flows the prayer of believers in a sacrifice of entreaty for the peace of the world, for all those who ask for help, and for all men and women '"The Eucharist unites us in the most intimate fashion with the Lord; it nourishes our soul and body, and aids our strengthening, increase, and growth in spiritual life. According to the promise of the Gospel, He that eats this bread will live forever. (The Gospel of John 6:58) The cup which holds the wine that becomes the blood of Christ is the chalice, the cup of salvation. When we kneel during the liturgy, we pray with the priest that God the Holy Spirit may change the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus. This means that when we receive Holy Communion, Jesus comes to live in us. How do we prepare to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus? We pray. We should have love in our hearts for all people. We should ask forgiveness from God and from our parents, brothers, and sisters, and from anyone we may have hurt. When we come before the priest for Communion, we make the sign of the cross, tell the priest our baptismal name, hold the Communion cloth under our chin, and open our mouth wide. After receiving, we wipe our lips with the Communion cloth, make the sign of the cross, and hand the Communion cloth to the person next to us. Once we have received Communion, we must remember that we have become one with Christ and with all those who received Communion with us. Christ now lives in all of us. We are all living icons of Jesus. It is by loving one another that we love Jesus. After receiving Communion our bodies become holy chalices. God lives in us. Jesus wants to use our hands, which have now become His hands, to help those in need. When we receive Communion, we become members of Christ's Body, the Church. This means that Jesus has no eyes but our eyes, no feet but our feet to do His work in the world today. What kind, thoughtful act will you do for Jesus today? From Let s Take a Walk Through Our Orthodox Church by Fr. Anthony M. Coniaris / Light & Life Publishing Suggestions for family Bible reading: Set aside a regular time for daily reading preferably in the evening at the supper table when the whole family is together. When the children are young, mom or dad can do the reading. When the children grow older, they may share in the reading. Reading to children is one of life's greatest joys. Children treasure it. Don't read too much or too fast. One chapter a day is sufficient. Let what you read sink in slowly. If children are young, read from a Bible story bookone that has pictures which you can show the children. Start with the biographies of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Read with the faith and the expectation that God will really and truly speak to you through what you read. Don't worry about the passages you do not understand. Concentrate on what you do understand. The more you read, the more you will understand. One passage explains another. Each day memorize at least one verse that grips you. Say it out loud as a family three or four times. Encourage your children to fall asleep with this verse on their lips. Get a translation your children understand. As you read, try to have an icon of Jesus before you if you are reading the Gospels; one of St. Paul if you are reading his epistles, etc. This will help you realize who it is who is speaking to you. from Making God Real in the Orthodox Home by Fr. Anthony M. Coniaris / Light & Life Publishing LENT AND HOLY WEEK NEEDS The following items are needed for Lent and Holy Week. Should you be interested in donating these, please call the office. SALUTATIONS FLOWER WREATHS (5 Salutations)-$35 each ANNUNCIATION ICON (2) - NARTHEX - $35 each ANNUNCIATION PROCESSIONAL ICON - $35 ICON OF BRIDEGROOM - NIMPHIOS -$40 HOLY THURSDAY WREATH FOR CROSS - $40 ICON OF CRUCIFICTION - $40 CANDLES FOR CROSS - $20 CANDLE AT FOOT OF CROSS - $20 HOLY FRIDAY CROSS FOR EPITAPHIO - $30 FLOWER PETALS (Red & White) - $5 per bag (4 bags) HOLY SATURDAY EASTER EGGS - 2 CASES (720 eggs - medium size) RESURRECTION ICON (2) - $40 each DYE FOR EGGS - $25 (may be brought in) TULLE FOR EGGS - $60 (may be brought in) RIBBON FOR EGGS - $50 (may be brought in) PRIEST S EASTER CANDLE (4) - $40 each RESURRECTION BANNER - $60 EASTER LILIES - $15 The Now Moment: The Point at Which - Time Touches Eternity - There was an old gentleman on the elevator one gloomy Monday morning, who started humming and dancing a little jig. One sourpuss who was particularly irritated by the man s happy mood snapped, What have you got to be so happy about today? The old gentleman replied, Well, sir, I ain t never lived this day before. All of life is lived in the now moment. Today is the only day you and I have to serve the Lord. The Lord Jesus said, We must work the works of Him who sent me, while it is day; night comes when no one can work (John 9:4). Today is not the first day of the rest of your life. It is not just one day in our life. Today is the only day we have to work for the Lord. As someone said so well, Today is the first day of what s left of our life. You don t get to choose how you re going to die, or when. You can only decide how you re going to live, now.

10 REPENTANCE & CONFESSION Repentance has its roots in the apostles. In the Book of Acts the Apostle Peter says, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:37-38) When we fall away from God, we have removed ourselves from His communion with Him and with other Christians. We have excommunicated ourselves. To re-enter communion with God is the on-going activity of all Christians. We fall away daily in some way or another. No one is exempt. Often, when children play in competitive games, one will call out that s a do over! Haven t we all wished for that chance to undo the past and start over? Repentance offers us this new beginning. We are telling God that we have changed our mind about our past direction and want to be back in communion with him. The Greek work for repentance, metanoia, implies a very deep change in the way we see ourselves, our world, and our relationship to God. To change our mind in repentance is the starting point in our Lenten journey. We leave behind regret as we move toward hope. Repentance is not a single action but an attitude, a frame of mind. Think back over your life of things which you regret having said or done hurtful, inconsiderate, selfish, deceitful. Think also of those things which you have done which may not have directly affected others, but which you know to be wrong according to the teachings of the Church. Bring them to mind as if they were occurring right now. Think of how it would have been if you had acted differently. Take this regret and turn it into repentance. Acknowledge that you have offended another person or the Church, and in doing so you have offended God. If we are to be forgiven by God, He requires of us that we also forgive one another. For many of us, this is the most difficult aspect of repentance and confession. Yet we say it each time we pray the Lord s Prayer, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Just as God s love for us is personal, so must ours be for Him. As the Christian grows from child to adult, his or her personal response to God becomes crucial. This personal response is the act of confession. FASTING The fast for the forty days of Lent is indicated below, though many are not able to hold to the strict fast. We offer the following guidelines to be considered prayerfully with the guidance of your spiritual father and in consideration of any medical condition or dietary requirements. STRICT FAST No Meat, Fish, Milk, Dairy Products, Oil, or Oil Products PALM SUNDAY Fish, Oil & Wine permitted FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION/MARCH 25TH March 25th - all day: Fish, Oil & Wine Permitted Shellfish are permitted throughout Great Lent Resource: The Orthodox Daily Planner and Resource Guide published by the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries provides daily guidance in fasting, scripture, feast days and more. St. John Chrysostom on Fasting Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works. If you see a poor man, take pity on him. If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him. Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands and all the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice. Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin. Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful. Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip. Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism. For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and devour our brothers? May He who came to the world to save sinners strengthen us to complete the fast with humility, have mercy on us and save us. Jesus Instructions on Fasting "Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Gospel of Matthew Chapter 6:16-18 PRAYER Have no anxiety about anything, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ. -St. Paul s letter to the Philippians One key to a more fulfilling life is prayer. For Orthodox Christians, the aim of prayer is to enter into conversation with God. Prayer is sometimes referred to as dialogue with God. Often it is a waiting on God in silence. In the church it is defined as the lifting of the mind and heart to God, and also as walking in the presence of God. We turn our mind and thoughts toward Him. We mentally gaze at Him and speak with Him in reverence, fear, and hope. At times we speak to Him with words and at other times we stand in reverent silence, saying nothing, but being aware of His presence. In this dialogue with God we praise Him and thank Him. We ask Him for what we need. Our mind and our heart are opened to Him. Prayer is not only repeating words, it is trust in God that he hears and directs us in His Way involving spiritual growth and development. The Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian Read each week-day during Great Lent O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth, despair, lust of power, and idle talk. But give rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience, and love to Thy servant. Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own transgressions, and not to judge my brother, for blessed art Thou, unto ages of ages. Amen. SPECIAL SERVICES IN LENT Wednesdays Presanctified Liturgy at 7:00pm followed by a Potluck Lenten Meal. For those receiving Holy Communion, fasting should start after a light lunch. Fridays Salutation Service at 7:00pm Vespers of Annunciation March 24 th at 7:00pm Annunciation March 25 th Matins at 9:00am Divine Liturgy at 9:30am