Our St. George family extends its congratulations and warmest wishes to Theofanis Katsiklis

Transcript

1 Ελληνικός Ορθόδοξος Ιερός Ναός Αγίου Γεωργίου St. George Greek Orthodox Church 9426 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL Reverend Fr. Dr. Gregory Edwards, Presbyter Church Office: Alex Limberatos, Youth Director - youth@stgeorgetampabay.org or his cell phone Κυριακή Μεθεόρτια τῶν Φώτων- Afterfeast of the Theophany of Our Lord and Savior SUNDAY JANUARY 7TH, NEW WEB PAGE: Our St. George family extends its congratulations and warmest wishes to Theofanis Katsiklis on his ordination to the Holy Diaconate on January 7, 2018 in Tampa Florida And many blessings for his ordination to the Holy Priesthood on Sunday, February 4, 2018 in St. Augustine, Florida. For bus transportation and lodging please contact Tina Wilson By Monday January 8th, 5pm. Space is limited and on a first come basis. Σας Ευχόμαστε να έχετε μία καλή και Ευλογημένη νέα χρονιά 2018!! We wish to all a very blessed and Happy New Year 2018!! ΘΕΟΦΑΝΕΙΑ Aγιασμός για το Σπιτη σας! Παρακαλούμε συμπληρώστε την φόρμα και να το επιστρέψει στο γραφείο της Εκκλησία Παρακαλούμε εκτυπώστε τακτοποιημένα την φόρμα για να αναφέρετε την ημερομηνία και την ωρα που επιθυμείτε το αγιασμό σας να γινη. Στείλτε την φορμα στο γραφείο της Εκκλησίας, ή φέρτε το μαζί σας στην εκκλησία την Κυριακή. H γραμματέα της εκκλησία θα σας ενημερώσει και θα βεβαιώσει την ημερομηνία και την ώρα του Aγιασμό σας. According to the Greek Orthodox tradition, the month of January is the time for home blessings. If you wish for Fr. Gregory to come and bless your home or business, please complete the form and return it to the Church office. Please print neatly. 1

2 ΑΠΟΣΤΟΛΟ: Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων 19:1-8 Ἐν ταῖς ἡμεραῖς ἐκείναις, ἐγένετο δέ, ἐν τῷ τὸν Ἀπολλὼ εἶναι ἐν Κορίνθῳ, Παῦλον διελθόντα τὰ ἀνωτερικὰ μέρη ἐλθεῖν εἰς Ἔφεσον καὶ εὑρών τινας μαθητὰς εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς, Εἰ πνεῦμα ἅγιον ἐλάβετε πιστεύσαντες; Οἱ δὲ εἶπονn πρὸς αὐτόν, Ἀλλʼ οὐδὲn εἰ πνεῦμα ἅγιόν ἐστιν, ἠκούσαμεν. Εἶπέν τε πρὸς αὐτούς, Εἰς τί οὖν ἐβαπτίσθητε; Οἱ δὲ εἶπον, Εἰς τὸ Ἰωάννου βάπτισμα. Εἶπεν δὲ Παῦλος, Ἰωάννης μὲν ἐβάπτισεν βάπτισμα μετανοίας, τῷ λαῷ λέγων εἰς τὸν ἐρχόμενον μετʼ αὐτὸν ἵνα πιστεύσωσιν, τοῦτʼ ἔστιν, εἰς τὸν Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν. Ἀκούσαντες δὲ ἐβαπτίσθησαν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ. Καὶ ἐπιθέντος αὐτοῖς τοῦ Παύλου τὰς χεῖρας, ἦλθεν τὸ πνεῦμα τὸ ἅγιον ἐπʼ αὐτούς, ἐλάλουν τε γλώσσαις καὶ προεφήτευον. Ἦσαν δὲ οἱ πάντες ἄνδρες ὡσεὶ δεκαδύο. Εἰσελθὼν δὲ εἰς τὴν συναγωγὴν ἐπαρρησιάζετο, ἐπὶ μῆνας τρεῖς διαλεγόμενος καὶ πείθων τὰ περὶ τῆς βασιλείας τοῦ θεοῦ. EPISTLE: The reading is from Acts of the Apostles 19:1-8 In those days, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" And they said, "No, we have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." And he said, "Into what then were you baptized?" They said, "Into John's baptism." And Paul said, "John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve of them in all. And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, arguing and pleading about the kingdom of God. ΕΥΑΓΓΕΛΙΟ: Synaxis of John the Holy Glorious Prophet, Baptist, & Forerunner Ἐκ τοῦ Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 1:29-34 Εὐαγγελίου τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, βλέπει ὁ Ιωάννης τὸν Ιησοῦν ἐρχόμενον πρὸς αὐτὸν καὶ λέγει ἴδε ὁ ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ ὁ αἴρων τὴν ἁμαρτίαν τοῦ κόσμου. οὗτός ἐστι περὶ οὗ ἐγὼ εἶπον ὀπίσω μου ἔρχεται ἀνὴρ ὃς ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν. κἀγὼ οὐκ ᾔδειν αὐτόν, ἀλλ ἵνα φανερωθῇ τῷ Ισραήλ, διὰ τοῦτο ἦλθον ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ ὕδατι βαπτίζων. καὶ ἐμαρτύρησεν Ιωάννης λέγων ὅτι τεθέαμαι τὸ Πνεῦμα καταβαῖνον ὡς περιστερὰν ἐξ οὐρανοῦ, καὶ ἔμεινεν ἐπ αὐτόν. κἀγὼ οὐκ ᾔδειν αὐτόν, ἀλλ ὁ πέμψας με βαπτίζειν ἐν ὕδατι, ἐκεῖνός μοι εἶπεν ἐφ ὃν ἂν ἴδῃς τὸ Πνεῦμα καταβαῖνον καὶ μένον ἐπ αὐτόν, οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ βαπτίζων ἐν Πνεύματι Αγίῳ. κἀγὼ ἑώρακα καὶ μεμαρτύρηκα ὅτι οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ. GOSPEL: Synaxis of John the Holy Glorious Prophet, Baptist, & Forerunner The Gospel According to John 1:29-34 At that time, John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, 'After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.' I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel." And John bore witness, "I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, 'He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God." 2

3 Thoughts for the New Year - A Time for Renewal The first day of the New Year is a traditional time we evaluate our past and set new goals for the coming year. Often we couch these as resolutions. We commit to losing weight, exercising more, improving our business and so forth. We might even commit ourselves to reading the Scriptures every day or making a commitment to daily prayer or regularly attending church and participating the the fasts and sacraments regularly. These efforts to seek to better our life physically and spiritually are important. Yet there are only a few such resolutions that last more than a few weeks. Why is this? Simply because we don't set out to make a habit out of what we commit to, making them part of our normal life routine. We are so influenced by our culture that we expect instant results. We are impatient, too used to comfort, and quickly tire of things that require discipline and hard work. But if we truly seek to be an Orthodox Christian we must do both of these. This is what the Orthodox way of life is all about. Our spiritual growth does not come without effort and discipline. This is how the apostle Peter puts it: Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love (2 Peter 1:5-7). Being an Orthodox Christian is about a way of life. We must seek to live in a way that we become the aroma of Christ to our surroundings (2 Cor 2:15). This means that we must develop a presence that influences others by our way of living and acting. This is a good time to review the following nine principles of an Orthodox Way of life and reflect on our own life style. asking what changes do I need to make to improve my aroma. 1. Praying Daily: Have a regular prayer rule that includes morning and evening prayer. 2. Worshiping and Participating in Sacraments: Attend and participate in the Divine Liturgy receiving Holy Communion regularly as well as regular participation in Confession. 3. Honoring the Liturgical Cycle of the Church: Follow the seasons of the church and participate in the fasts and feasts of the Church. 4. Using the Jesus Prayer: Repeat the Holy name whenever possible throughout the day or night. 5. Slowing Down and Ordering Your Life: Set priorities and reduce the stress and friction caused by a hurried life. 6. Being Watchful: Give full attention to what you are doing at the moment. 7. Taming the Passions: Overcome your habits, attachment to your likes and dislikes, and learn to practice the virtues.. Putting Others First: Free yourself from your selfishness and find joy in helping others. 8. Spiritual Fellowship: Spend time regularly with other Orthodox Christians for support and inspiration.: 9. Reading the Scriptures and Holy Fathers: Be inspired by the lessons of the Holy Scriptures, the wisdom of the Holy Fathers and the lives of the Saints of the Church. The starting point is always prayer coupled with regular participation in the Divine Liturgy and regular preparation and partaking of Holy Communion and attending the weekly Bible Classes. Fasting and the practice of the Jesus prayer can help build the necessary discipline and a attitude of repentance where we are constantly asking for God s mercy and help. If you seek spiritual enrichment in the coming year, then don't let yourself fall into a dull slumber of inattention to what really matters. Engage yourself in your spiritual development and allow the Holy Spirit to transform you from the inside out. Don t seek instant results from God like he was an ATM machine. Seek and thirst after him. Don t fret about how distant He seems. Commit yourself to live the life He has provided for you through His Church. The Church is given to us for our benefit. It outlines for us how we can become self-disciplined and gain His help to transform our lives so that we truly live in Him and He in us as the Scripture says. May God enlighten you and bring you many Blessings in the Coming New Year. 3

4 SCHEDULE OF ECCLESIASTICAL SERVICES FOR JANUARY 2018 Πρόγραμμα Εκκλησιαστικών ακολουθιών μηνός Ιανουαρίου Ιανουαρίου, Σάββατο, Μ. Εσπερινός, :45μμ. January 13, Saturday, Great Vespers, 6:00-6:45 PM. 14 Ιανουαρίου, Απόδοσις των Θεοφανείων, Όρθρος 8.15 πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30 πμ. January 14, Sunday, Leavetaking of Theophany, Matins 8:15 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 16 Ιανουαρίου, Τρίτη, Αγ. Αντωνίου, Εσπερινός, :45μμ. January 16, Tuesday, St. Anthony, Vespers, 6:00-6:45 PM. 17 Ιανουαρίου, Τετάρτη, Αγ. Αντωνίου, Όρθρος 8.30πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30πμ. January 17, Wednesday, St. Anthony, Matins 8:30 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 17 Ιανουαρίου, Τετάρτη, Αγ. Αθανασίου, Εσπερινός, :45μμ. January 17, Wednesday, St. Athanasios, Vespers, 6:00-6:45 PM. 18 Ιανουαρίου, Πέμπτη, Αγ. Αθανασίου, Όρθρος 8.30πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30πμ. January 18, Thursday, St. Athanasios, Matins 8:30 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 20 Ιανουαρίου, Σάββατο, Μ. Εσπερινός, :45μμ. January 20, Saturday, Great Vespers, 6:00-6:45 PM. 21 Ιανουαρίου, IΕ Λουκά, Όρθρος 8.15 πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30 πμ. January 21, Sunday, 15 th Sunday of Luke, Matins 8:15 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 24 Ιανουαρίου, Τετάρτη, Αγ. Γρηγορίου του Θεολόγου, Εσπερινός μετ Αρτοκλασίας, :00μμ. January 24, Wednesday, St. Gregory the Theologian, Vespers with Artoklasia, 6:00-7:00 PM. 25 Ιανουαρίου, Πέμπτη, Αγ. Γρηγορίου του Θεολόγου, Όρθρος 8.30πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30πμ. January 25, Thursday, St. Gregory the Theologian, Matins 8:30 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 27 Ιανουαρίου, Σάββατο, Μ. Εσπερινός, :45μμ. January 27, Saturday, Great Vespers, 6:00-6:45 PM. 28 Ιανουαρίου, Κυριακή, ΙΣΤ Λουκά (Τελώνου καί Φαρισαίου), Όρθρος 8.15 πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30 πμ. January 28, Sunday, Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee (Triodion Begins), Matins 8:15 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. 4

5 ANTHONY MICELI Little Angels When God calls little children to dwell with Him above, We mortals sometime question the wisdom of His love. For no heartache compares with the death of one small child Who does so much to make our world, seem wonderful and mild Perhaps God tires of calling the aged To his fold, So He picks a rosebud, before it can grow old. God knows how much we need them, and so He takes but few To make the land of Heaven more beautiful to view. Believing this is difficult still somehow we must try, The saddest word mankind knows will always be "Goodbye." So when a little child departs, we who are left behind Must realize God loves children, Angels are hard to find. Funeral arrangements Both the viewing & funeral will be held at St. George Greek Orthodox Church 9426 little Road New Port Richey Sunday January 7, 2017 will be the viewing at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with the Trisagion at 6:00 pm. Monday January 8, 2017 will be the funeral at 11:00 am. Makaria luncheon will follow at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Kontos Community Center 5

6 Ύμνοι της Εβδομάδος Απολυτίκιον Ἐν Ἰορδάνῃ βαπτιζοµένου σου Κύριε, ἡ τῆς Τριάδος ἐφανερώθη προσκύνησις τοῦ γὰρ Γεννήτορος ἡ φωνὴ προσεµαρτύρει σοι, ἀγαπητόν σε Υἱὸν ὀνοµάζουσα καὶ τὸ Πνεῦµα ἐν εἴδει περιστερᾶς, ἐβεβαίου τοῦ λόγου τὸ ἀσφαλές. Ὁ ἐπιφανεὶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, καὶ τὸν κόσµον φωτίσας δόξα σοι. Ἀπολυτίκιον Σύναξις προς τιμήν Ιωάννου του Προδρόμου Μνήμη δικαίου μέτ' ἐγκωμίων, σοὶ δὲ ἀρκέσει ἡ μαρτυρία τοῦ Κυρίου Πρόδρομε, ἀνεδείχθης γὰρ ὄντως καὶ Προφητῶν σεβασμιώτερος, ὅτι καὶ ἐν ῥείθροις βαπτίσαι κατηξιώθης τὸν κηρυττόμενον. Ὅθεν τῆς ἀληθείας ὑπεραθλήσας, χαίρων εὐηγγελίσω καὶ τοὶς ἐν ἅδῃ, Θεὸν φανερωθέντα ἐν σαρκί, τὸν αἴροντα τὴν ἁμαρτίαν τοῦ κόσμου, καὶ παρέχοντα ἡμῖν τὸ μέγα ἔλεος. Απολυτίκιον Αγίου Ανδρέου Ὡς τῶν Ἀποστόλων Πρωτόκλητος Καὶ τοῦ κορυφαίου αὐτάδελφος τῷ Δεσπότῃ τῶν ὅλων, Ἀνδρέα, ἱκέτευε, εἰρήνην τῇ Οἰκουμένη δωρήσασθαι καὶ ταῖς ψνχαῖς ἡμῶν τὸ μέγα ἔλεος. Ἀπολυτίκιο Άγίου Γεωργίου Ὡς τῶν αἰχμαλώτων ἐλευθερωτής, καὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ὑπερασπιστής, ἀσθενούντων ἰατρός, βασιλέων ὑπέρμαχος, Τροπαιοφόρε Μεγαλομάρτυς Γεώργιε, πρέσβευε Χριστῷ τῷ Θεῷ, σωθῆναι τὰς ψυχὰς ἡμῶν. Seasonal Kontakion Τὴν σωματικήν σου παρουσίαν δεδοικῶς ὁ Ἰορδάνης, τρόμω ὑπεστρέφετο, τὴν πνευματικὴν δὲ λειτουργίαν ἐκπληρῶν ὁ Ἰωάννης, φόβω ὑπεστέλλετο, τῶν Ἀγγέλων αἱ τάξεις ἐξεπλήττοντο, ὁρώσαί σε ἐν ῥείθροις σαρκὶ βαπτιζόμενον, καὶ πάντες οἱ ἐν τῷ σκότει κατηυγάζοντο, ἀνυμνούντές σε τὸν φανέντα, καὶ φωτίσαντα τὰ πάντα. Hymns of the Week Resurrectional Apolytikion As You were baptized in the Jordan, O Lord, then the worship of the Trinity became manifest, for the voice of the Father bore witness to You, naming You the Beloved Son; and the Spirit, in the form of a dove, confirmed the certainty of the word. O Christ God, who appeared and illumined the world, glory to You Apolytikion of Synaxis of John the Forerunner The memory of the just is celebrated with hymns of praise, but the Lord's testimony is sufficient for thee, O Forerunner; for thou hast proved to be truly even more venerable than the Prophets, since thou was granted to baptize in the running waters Him Whom they proclaimed. Wherefore, having contested for the truth, thou didst rejoice to announce the good tidings even to those in Hades: that God hath appeared in the flesh, taking away the sin of the world and granting us great mercy. St. Andrew Dismissal Hymn As first of the Apostles to be called, O Andrew, brother of him (Peter) who was foremost, beseech the Master of all to grant the world peace and our souls great mercy. St. George Dismissal Hymn Liberator of captives, defender of the poor, physician of the sick and a champion of kings. O trophy bearer, Great Martyr George, intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved. Seasonal Kontakion Kontakion of Synaxis of John the Forerunner The Jordan accepted Your presence in the flesh and reversed its course in fear. John, fulfilling the spiritual ministry, fell back in awe. The ranks of Angels, seeing You in the flesh, baptized in the river, were amazed, and all who were in darkness were filled with light, praising You who appeared and enlightened all. 6

7 St George Dance Group We wanted to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! We would also like to thank Father Gregory, the parish council and all of our parishioners for supporting the dance group at its Fundraiser Lunch and Bake Sale on December 10th. With your support it was a great success!! Our high school group, Patrida, will be going to Orlando on January 12-15th to participate at the Hellenic Dance Festival competition There will be 42 groups attending this year's HDF coming from many parishes in our Metropolis and as far away as Chicago and Denver Our dancers will be representing our parish St George, their faith and their culture and we are very proud of them. If any of our parishioners would like to come to Orlando and see the group perform, here is the information: Marriott Orlando World Center 8701 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL Performances will be on Saturday January 13th, 2018 at 9:40am and 4:49pm There is a $20 entrance fee to attend the competition Hope to see you there! Georgia (Dance Group Director) 2018 CHURCH CALENDARS ARE HERE! ΗΜΕΡΟΛΟΓΙΑ 2018 ΕΙΝΑΙ ΕΤΟΙΜΑ. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL FROM FATHER GREGORY AND THE PARISH COUNCIL! 2018 CHURCH CALENDARS ARE HERE! YOU MAY PICK THEM UP FROM THE CHURCH OFFICE! ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ ΑΠΟ ΤΟ ΠΑΤΕΡ ΓΡΗΓΟΡΙ ΚΑΙ ΤΟ ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΙΟ ΤΟΥ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΓΕΩΡΓΙΟΥ. TA ΗΜΕΡΟΛΟΓΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ 2018 ΕΙΝΑΙ ΕΤΟΙΜΑ. ΠΕΡΑΣΤΕ ΚΑΙ ΠΑΡΤΕ ΤΟ ΗΜΕΡΟΛΟΓΙΟ ΣΑΣ ΑΠΟ ΤΟ ΓΡΑΦΕΙΟ Memorials When planning your memorial service please make sure that you contact the office and give the names of the reposed so that Father Gregory has them in advance. In addition, if you would like KOLYVA we ask that you contact Katina Kollias or

8 8

9 9

10 12 Reasons Why I Became and/or Remain an Orthodox Christian Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick 1. I believe the Orthodox Church really is the one, true Church of Christ. 2. Orthodoxy gives me something to do. 3. Orthodoxy gives me a way to see and touch God physically. 4. Change is really hard. 5. Orthodoxy really is one Church. 6. Orthodoxy is a faith for the whole life. 7. Orthodoxy is a faith for the whole world. 8. Orthodoxy is a faith for the whole person. 9. God really does love you the way you are, and He loves you so much, He won t leave you that way. 10. Orthodoxy is both mystical and rational. 11. Orthodoxy is ascetical. 12. Orthodoxy aims higher than any other Christian faith. Orthodoxy comes with a vast set of expressions of its tradition, you can never exhaust it all. There is always something new not just to learn but to become. While we don t really arrive until the next life (and I d argue even that is not an arrival; that is, it s not the end of the road of salvation), there are many waystations in this life that delight and grant joy. The difference between Orthodoxy and Evangelicalism in this regard is that I m talking about not just growing in wisdom, which is common to all religious traditions, but that Orthodoxy tracks many stages of spiritual development throughout a whole lifetime. The beauty of Orthodoxy addresses the whole human person in multiple ways. It is not a faith just for the soul or the heart, but for the body, as well, including our ability to apprehend beauty. Join on Wednesday January 10 from 6pm 8pm at the Oasis Coffee Spot discussion with guest speak Rev. Joseph Copeland 10

11 11

12 Prayers at Church Prayer Upon Entering a Church I will come into Your house in the greatness of Your mercy: and in fear I will worship toward Your holy temple. Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness because of my enemies; make Your way straight before me, that with a clear mind I may glorify You forever, One Divine Power worshiped in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. Prayer upon Leaving a Church Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the presence of all people; a light to enlighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel. Prayer at the Icon of Christ We reverence Your spotless icon, O gracious Lord, and ask forgiveness of our transgressions, O Christ our God. Because of Your own good will You ascended the Cross in the flesh, that You might deliver those who You had created from the bondage of the enemy. We cry aloud unto You: You have filled all things with joy, O our Savior, for You came to save the world. Amen. PRAYER CORNER: If you wish your name to be placed on the St. George Prayer List, please contact our Church office. Do not call for others because some people do not want their names to be published. Prayer List for: Calliope Scumas, MaryAnne Kranidis, Elias Kranidis, Kaliope Potawsky, Daniel Scherr, Maria Stolis, Phil and Marie Sherman, Evelyn Leufen, Ferd Leufen, Stamatia Matia Vamvounakis, Maria Stolis, Charlie, Laurie Fleischer PRAYER PRAY EVERY Morning and Evening at a Minimum Remember to make your prayer life one that is a firm rule and not something that is done occasionally or sporadically. It must be done each day morning and evening at a minimum. You need to commit to follow your rule each and every day. Think about certain personal hygiene tasks such as brushing your teeth that you do each day out of habit. You don t forget to do them each day. Your prayer needs to become a habit as strong as these. Prayer must become a daily habit that you never forget. Prayer is essential for the health of our soul Just like the hygiene activities that we do for the health of our body. PRAYER FOR OUR CHILDREN O God, our heavenly Father, Who loves mankind and is a most merciful and compassionate God, have mercy upon Your servant(s) (names), for whom I humbly pray to You, and whom I commend to Your gracious care and protection. O God, be their guide and guardian in all their endeavors, lead them in the path of Your truth, and draw them nearer to You, so that they may lead a godly and righteous life in Your love and fear, doing Your will in all things. Give them grace and mercy so that they may be patient, hard working, tireless, devout, and charitable. Defend them against the assaults of the enemy, and grant them wisdom and strength to resist all temptation and corruption, and direct them in the way of salvation, through the goodness of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, and the prayers of His Holy Mother and the blessed Saints. Amen. 12

13 *************************************************************************************** 13

14 Η ΘΕΙΑ ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΑ Η Θεία Κοινωνιά προσφε ρεται στην Ορθο δοξη Εκκλησιά μο νο στα α τομα που βαφτι στηκαν στην Ορθο δοξη Πι στη. Για να συμμετα σχεις στην Θειά Κοινωνιά, πρε πει να ει σαι σε καλη κατα σταση με την Εκκλησιά πνευματικα (για παρα δειγμα, οι παντρεμε νοι α νθρωποι πρέπει να ε χει ευλογηθει ο γα μος τους στην Εκκλησιά και ο λοι πρε πει να ει ναι χωρι ς σοβαρη αμαρτιά στις καρδιε ς τους). Για ο λους τους Ορθο δοξους Χριστιανου ς πρε πει να τηρει ται η σωστη προετοιμασιά για τη Θειά Κοινωνιά: δηλαδη, εξε ταση της συνει δησης, εξομολο γηση, ανα γνωση των προσευχω ν για ιερη Κοινωνιά και σωστη νηστειά. Αν ε χετε περαιτε ρω αποριές σχετικα με αυτο, παρακαλείται να μιλη σετε με τον Ιερέα. Οι γυναι κες πρε πει να αφαιρε σουν ο λο το κραγιο ν ο ταν πλησια ζουν για τη Θειά Κοινωνιά. Παρακαλείται να αφη σετε τους γονει ς με τα μωρα τους και τους ηλικιωμε νους να προσεγγι σουν πρω τα. Σας ευχαριστούμε! GUIDELINES FOR RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION Holy Communion is offered in the Orthodox Church only to those individuals baptized and Chrismated (confirmed) in the Orthodox Faith. To participate in Holy Communion one must be in good standing with the Church spiritually (for example, married people must have had their marriage blessed in the Church and all must be without grave sin on their hearts). For all Orthodox Christians, the proper preparation for Holy Communion must be observed: examination of conscience, confession, reading the prayers for Holy Communion, and the proper fasting. If you have any further questions about this, please speak with the clergy. Women should remove all lipstick when approaching for Holy Communion. Please let parents with their babies and the elderly approach first. We Thank you Father Gregory Edwards contact information is Cell: Office: address: If you would like to schedule a meeting, an appointments or confession please contact the church office and speak with Antonia or you may contact Fr. Gregory at Church is open daily for your spiritual needs from 9:00am - 4:00pm and on Sundays 8:15am-1:00pm Αγαπητοί μου εκ Κυρίω αδελφοί, είμαστε στην ευχάριστη θέση να σας ανακοινώσουμε ότι ο Ελληνορθόδοξος Ιερός Ναός του Αγίου Μεγαλομάρτυρος και Θαυματουργού Γεωργίου θα είναι ανοικτός καθημερινά από 9:00πμ έως και τις 4:00μμ και Κυριακές από 8:15πμ έως 1:00μμ για τις Λατρευτικές σας ανάγκες. Για την εξομολόγησή σας ή για οποιαδήποτε άλλη Λατρευτική ανάγκη παρακαλούμε να τηλεφωνήσετε το γραφείο του Αγίου Γεωργίου η τον +π. Γρηγόριος στο

15 BULLETIN SPONSOR FORM If you would like to sponsor an issue of the St. George Weekly Bulletin Please contact the Church Office and speak with Antonia from 9am -4pm Monday thru Friday Requests will need to be made by Tuesday 2 weeks prior the Bulletin issue The Bulletin donation is $50.00 payable to St. George Greek Orthodox Church Stewardship 2018 Forms are available at the church office or the pangari Stewardship committee waiting to assist you! As the Father has sent me, so I send you! John 20:21 Be a Part of the St. George Team!!! Stewardship is an opportunity to examine our priorities and values, to express our thankfulness for all the blessings God has bestowed upon us, and to grow in grace. Complete your 2018 Commitment Card today! Sponsor a Day at St. George s! This year, 2017, it will cost over $480,000 to run St. George s. That means that it costs about $1320 a day to keep the doors of our church open. Following other successful parishes, we have decided to challenge our parishioners to sponsor a day at St. George s. With about 300 families, that means we could come close to sponsoring the whole year if every family would take a single day. Each week in the bulletin, we will acknowledge and thank those families who have stepped up to the challenge. Thank you to: Constantine and Angela Bougas (In memory of Nick and Mary Michael our parents ) Mr. Jack Balahtsis, The Edwards Family, The Tout Family The Chilimigras Family, The Psetas Family, The St. George Baking Angels Koulla Mitchell, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Saravanos, (2) Anonymous, Mr.& Mrs. Peter Pappas Mancini Family Watch all our Church Services LIVE from your Computer, laptop or your smartphone! Τώρα μπορείτε να βλέπετε ζωντανά τις Ιερές ακολουθείες από τον υπολογιστή σας ή το τηλέφωνό σας!!! 15

16 St. George offers 3 bible study sessions under the direction of +Fr. Gregory *********************************************************** Adult Bible Study/Catechism Wednesday evening at 7pm Kontos Community Hall Join us on Wednesday evenings as we learn more about the Orthodox faith. We are currently reading a book that studies the similarities and differences between Orthodoxy and other Christian confessions and faiths. There is always room for Q&A. This group is aimed at both those who are interested in joining the Orthodox Church, as well as Orthodox who want to learn more about their faith. Everything is in English. The study is proceeded by prayer from 6:00-7:00 PM in the chapel. ****************************************************************************** Greek Bible Study Meets every Wednesday afternoon, 1:00-2:30 PM with a potluck lunch. Join us on Wednesdays for a potluck lunch as we read through a Greek spiritual text. We are currently in a study of the Divine Liturgy. The book and conversation are in Modern Greek Κύκλος μελέτης στα ελληνικά Kάθε Τετάρτη από τις 1.00pm-2.30pm Ελάτε! **************************************************************************** Women s Bible study Thursday morning at 10:30am Discussion about faith, religion and family life. Focus on Family Life! +Father Gregory Welcomes you ALL Thank you to all those that attend weekly! 16

17 PRAYER LIST FOR OUR TROOPS ZOE LEKAKIS, MARINES ALEXI LAKE, MARINES LEONIDAS STEFOPOULOS, USARMY ELIAS A. KOSTAKIS, USARMY COSTADINO BAETEN, NAVY CONSTANTINOS VLAHOCHRISTOS, NAVY If you have a loved one serving in the USA Military please submit their names by calling the Church Office so that we can pray for them. May God Bless you and keep you all safe! The church will be collecting toiletry items for military care packages for our troops. Items such as shavers, shaving cream, wipes, toothpaste, tooth brushes, foot powder ect.. Also stationery items and stamps. You may drop off your donated items to the Church office If you wish to donate towards the gifts for our next Divine Liturgy please contact the Church office and speak with Antonia at The offerings include: 10 prosfora, the communion wine, the oil, the incense and charcoal. All items used during the prothesis in preparation for the Divine Liturgy and Holy Communion. THE CHURCH IS LOW and needs OILVE OIL for the Kandeli(a) in the altar and the church. If you would like to donate oil please do so and bring it with you on Sunday or to the Church office. ****************************** VISITING ANGELS MINISTRY The visiting angels ministry needs volunteers! This ministry visits the nursing homes, shut-ins and hospitals. If you would like to be involved in this Philanthropic mission please contact Sofia Bouzios Tel Stavroula Grivas Tel You may also log onto the website 17

18 18

19 Thank you to our bulletin sponsors for your continued support with advertising your business in our weekly bulletins. 19

20 20

21 St. George Weekly Church Services & Church Ministries Schedule The Church & the Church Office are open daily from 9:00AM to 4:00PM Feel free to come to Pray and light a candle at the Church Monday 01/08 Tuesday 01/09 Goya and Dance practice Tuesdays from 7-8 Greek Dance (younger kids) Wednesday 01/10 Thursday 01/11 1:00PM GREEK BIBLE STUDY 6:00PM GREEK SCHOOL There is no Paraklesis 6:00PM Oasis coffee spot Bible Study 10:30am Women s bible study Kontos Hall 1PM Young at Heart Vasilopita ceremony and meeting - Kontos Hall 7:00pm 8:30pm Adult Bible Study/Catechism Friday 01/12 Friday Night Saturday 01/13 6:00-6:45 PM. Great Vespers :45μμ. Μ. Εσπερινός, Sunday 01/14 Leavetaking of Theophany, Matins 8:15 AM and Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM. Sunday School Απόδοσις των Θεοφανείων, Όρθρος 8.15 πμ και Θεία Λειτουργία 9.30 πμ. Needed Immediately Commercial Grade Vacuum Cleaner Contact the church office if you wish to donate this item. 21

22 22

23 23

24 24