Greek Orthodox Cadral of Annunciation The Annunciator Rev. Fr. Paul A. Kaplanis, Dean (frpaulk@atlgoc.org) Rev. Fr. Christos P. Mars, Presbyter (frchristos@atlgoc.org) 2500 Clairmont Road N.E. Atlanta, GA 30329 Phone (404) 633-5870 Fax (404) 633-6018 Volume 41 Issue 3 www.atlgoc.org office@atlgoc.org June 2014 ST. PAUL S BOLD AND COMPASSIONATE SERMON TO THE ATHENIANS As St. Paul traveling on his missionary journeys in early days of Church, he made a stop in Ans. We are well aware that St. Paul traveled to or places in Greece; Corinth, Beroea, Thessaloniki Philippi to name a few, but in great detail, St. Luke Evangelist documents his stop in Ans in Book of Acts in chapter 17, verses 16-34. In verse, 19, St. Luke describes scene in following way, IN THOSE DAYS, Anians took hold of Paul brought him to Areopagos, saying, " M ay we know what this new teaching is which you present? For you bring some strange things to our ears; we wish to know refore what se things mean." St. Paul had just left Beroea, where he had preached in Jewish synagogue had been received peacefully with eagerness. The scripture says that many believed including some Greek women of high sting as well as men (Acts 17:12). Pr eviously, St. Paul preached to Jews in Thessaloniki. He not well received re to point that when se same Jews heard that he went to Beroea, y went re to stir up incite crowds. Sts. Silas Timothy stayed behind, while those in his company brought St. Paul to Ans, where he waited for two Saints to arrive. It seems that Ans an unscheduled stop for St. Paul s missionary journey. 28 He simply waiting re for his colleagues decided to make most of his time by opening up some conversations amongst locals. He argued first with those in synagogue n various people in marketplace. He also met with some of Epicurean Stoic philosophers. It philosophers who decided to escort St. Paul to Areopagos. It on Areopagos, hill/rock, Pnyx, in Greek Πνύξ, of god Aries, also known as Mars Hill, located at foot of Acropolis, that St. Paul formally offered gospel, new faith to philosophic religious system of Greek world in year 52 A.D. The Areopagos, center of ancient Greek democracy beginning as early as 507 BC, when political power transferred to citizenry, Anians gared here to host ir popular assemblies. In ancient times, re were over 43,000 members of Areopagos Court 6,000 members were required for a quorum. At this site, all great political struggles of Ans of "Golden Age" were fought. In in Ans, most learned city in world before most exclusive of courts that St. Paul had to state his case. For him, location ideal spot a God-given opportunity to witness for Christ, Incarnate Logos, Son of God, Anointed Savior of world. It during Roman occupation of Ans that St. Paul introduced humanism of Monoistic religion, which influenced Anians on a moral intellectual level. They perceived this religion as a new 1 ConƟnues on page 2
philosophy a mystery. In Christianity, y found an affinity with ancient Greek philosophical ideas, such as Logos fixed principle, which governed world of flux, according to Heraclitus. In Christianity, y also found tenderness, compassion humanity. Yet, ir reaction to St. Paul's preaching (specifically in regards to resurrection) to mock reject him. When St. Paul arrived in Ans, he shocked when he discovered that city full of idols. Equally, however, he impressed by city s great beauty. While preaching gospel, he had long walks discussions with Epicurean Stoic philosophers, who urged him to explain to m his teaching his novel ideas. Before we study St. Paul s sermon, it is helpful to consider what it would be like today to speak about our Orthodox Christian Faith in front of an audience that curious to hear new ideas, but also very comfortable with world in which y lived. Let us say that we are missionaries going to a foreign l where people do not believe in God. Our job is not only telling m what we believe, (if y are willing to listen), but we are commissioned to convert people to our Orthodox Faith. Imagine that you have been called to spread Good News of Gospel. How would you begin? What would be first words coming out of your mouth? If we are unsure, St. Paul provides model in his encounter with people of Ans. St. Paul stood boldly on rock of Areopagos where he began his evangelistic message by saying: "Men of Ans, I perceive that in every way you are religious. For as I passed along observed objects of your worship, I found also an altar, with this inscription, To an unknown god. What you, refore, worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made world everything in it, being Lord of Heaven Earth, does not live in shrines made by man; nor is he served by human hs, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all men life breath everything...that y should seek God, in hope that y might feel after him find him. Yet he is not far from each one of us, for in him we live move have our being (Acts 17:22ff). As St. Paul continued his message, he introduced to Anians several important elements of new Christian Faith including, repentance, judgment a resurrected Savior. He also asserted that God has selected judge of this world proof is that He raised Him (Christ) from dead. As we read in Acts chapter 17, verse 32, reaction of people to St. Paul s message mixed. Some of m mocked him when y heard all this some said, We will hear you again about this. St. Luke points out that some joined St. Paul, meaning y embraced his message among m were Dionysios Areopagite a woman named Damaris. As St. Paul preached his message to Anians, he gently introduced concept of a known rar than unknown God in person of Resurrected Jesus Christ. It is important to underst why this message would be completely strange for some, misunderstood by ors yet attractive to many of Anian educated elite. Let us begin with Epicureans ir beliefs. 1) They believed that everything happened by chance. 2) They believed that death end of all. 3) They believed that gods were remote from world did not care. 4) They believed that pleasure that brought no pain chief end of man. There were also Stoics that believed: 1) that everything God. God a fiery spirit. That spirit grew dull in matter, but it in everything. What gave men life that a little spark of that spirit dwelt in m when y died it returned to God. 2) They believed that everything that happened will of God refore must be accepted without resentment. 3) They believed that every so often world disintegrated in a conflagration (inferno) started all over again on same cycle of events. Examining se two groups of philosophers, it appears that Stoics may have been most attracted to St. Paul s message, however, in Ans is easy to find someone to speak with since Anians were famous for ir curiosity. St. Paul s approach in conveying Gospel message to Anians also very interesting. He used utmost care in his manner of speaking truly knew his audience. For instead of using accusatory language, he used flattery diplomacy. Taking a closer look at scripture, we can underst this more clearly. St. Paul compliments Anians by praising m for being very religious having a great deal of religious objects shrines. He told m that he even found an altar with inscription, To an unknown god. He did not say to m, why do you worship an unknown god? Instead, he shares a few words about God that y would embrace LYKION TON ELLINIDON The year 2013-2014 has been a very rewarding one for Lykion ton Ellinidon Atlanta Chapter. The organization concluded its activities with two wonderful events that brought fun delight both to young not so young members of our community. For third year, we made Protomayia Stefana with children of Greek School. On Sunday, May 4, we had our First Protomayia Picnic which extremely successful. The wear beautiful, food delicious, dancing of High School children delightful for those who flew ir kites, a great activity. It suggested by all that this is a repeat activity for next year, where we hope to accommodate many more people. We want to thank our many volunteers that have given ir time efforts to all our projects, our sponsors friends for ir continuous encouragement support! Kalo Kalokairi! We will see you in August. Con nues on page 3 2 27
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Thank you to following Philoptochos members of 2014 Epitaphion Collections Committee: Voula Giannakopoulos, Vassio Giannakopoulos, Despina Vastakis, Niki Kosmetatos, Helen Pantelis, Metaxia Kleris Anna Johnson for y accepted notion of a creator who made world everything in it. Having reinforced sovereignty of God stating clearly that we are His offspring; St. Paul proceeds to press need for all humanity to accept that God is known that now is time to acknowledge this fact accept responsibilities that go with it. If, indeed, he says, we are God s offspring, n God cannot be described or worshipped, as an idol made of stone, gold or silver. God has been patient, St. Paul says, now he comms all men everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge world in righteousness (Acts 17:30-31). Who has God appointed for this task? The Risen Lord Jesus Christ, Savior Son of God who took on human nature while remaining fully God sacrificed His life in order to re-open doors of paradise for all. And He is same God, who, as we read in Acts chapter 17, verse 26, made from one every nation of men to live on all face of earth, having determined allotted periods boundaries of ir habitation. St. John Chrysostom in his homily on 17 th Chapter of Book of Acts reinforces that Christ is Creator. Speaking to St. Paul s approach to Anians, he says, See how he brings Him in as Judge also: Him, both provident for world, merciful forgiving powerful wise,, in a word possessing all attributes of a Creator. On day of St. Paul s sermon before Areopagos, only a few people converted, but we know that over time, fruits of his labors were tremendous. His eloquent message serves as a model for our own apologetic efforts. We can acknowledge that more more we are living in a very secular society, we need tools to speak with confidence to ors regarding our Orthodox Faith. We also must receive example of St. Paul s loving sensitive approach. What lessons can we learn from St. Paul s masterful speech before his purely pagan audience? 1) St. Paul begins by appealing to hearts emotions of those listening. He builds m up, rar than putting m down, by complimenting m for being religious. 2) It does not alienate his audience by pointing out errors of ir worship, but rar he states truths that would be accepted by Epicurean Stoic philosophers that were willing to listen. 3) St. Paul does not quote from Hebrew scripture since his listeners do not regard it as authoritative. Instead, St. Paul quotes from authorities Anians accepted as true, specifically works of ir own poets. 4) He carefully introduces Christian concepts by connecting m to assertions with which y could agree. 5) He does not shrink away from truth nor does not water down truth of Gospel. Here he knows that not everyone would accept message. 6) Finally, he speaks on same level as his audience. For example, St. Paul uses everyday language when speaking in marketplace raises style of his speech to a more sophisticated elegance before Areopagos. As we celebrate Feast Day of St. Paul in month of June, specifically on June 29, we can be inspired to be bold ambassadors of Faith that we have been blessed to receive. In world, that we live in today, we must be strong well-grounded in our beliefs, orwise we will be swallowed up into secularism. We cannot expect gift of our Orthodox Faith, which we have been given or we have chosen on our own, to simply carry us spiritually for generations. We must change some of our old paradigms shift into a more proactive journey of discovering treasures of our Faith. Each of us must make this great Faith our own n share it with ors. This is what St. Paul did. He changed an entire belief system became one of chief Christian role models. Through prayers of St. Paul Apostle to Nations, may we be inspired to raise ourselves to st on our own Areopagos Rock, boldly live a life where Christ comes first we love Him, with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our mind with all our strength. +Rev. Fr. Paul A. Kaplanis 26 3
ST. PETER THE ATHONITE AND THE DEMONS (JUNE 12 TH ) St. Peter Athonite, a Greek by birth, served as a soldier in imperial armies lived in Constantinople. In year 667 AD, during a war with Syrians, St. Peter taken captive locked up in a fortress in city of Samara on Euphrates River. For a long time he languished in prison pondered over which of his sins had brought God's chastisement upon him. St. Peter Athonite remembered that once he had intended to leave world go to a monastery, but he had not done so. He began to observe a strict fast in prison to pray fervently, asking St. Nicholas Wonderworker to intercede before God for him. St. Nicholas appeared in a dream to Peter advised him to call upon St. Simeon God-Receiver (commemorated February 3) for help. St. Nicholas appeared to him once more in a dream, encouraging prisoner in patience hope. The third time that he appeared it not in a dream, but with St. Simeon God-Receiver. St. Simeon, who appeared with a staff, touched his staff to chains binding St. Peter Athonite, chains melted away like wax. The doors of prison opened, St. Peter free. Following this St. Simeon God-Receiver vanished, but St. Nicholas conveyed St. Peter Athonite to borders of Greek territory. Reminding him of his vow, St. Nicholas also vanished. St. Peter Athonite n journeyed to Rome to receive monastic tonsure at tomb of Apostle Peter. Even here St. Nicholas did not leave him without his help. He appeared in a dream to Pope of Rome informed him of circumstances of St. Peter Athonite s liberation from captivity, he commed Pope to tonsure former prisoner into monasticism. On following day, in midst of a throng of people who had gared for divine services, Pope loudly exclaimed, "Peter, you who are from Greek ls, whom St. Nicholas has freed from prison in Samara, come here to me."st. Peter Athonite stood in front of Pope, who tonsured him into monasticism at tomb of Apostle Peter. The Pope taught St. Peter Athonite rules of monastic life kept monk by him. Then with a blessing, he sent St. Peter Athonite to where God had appointed him to journey. St. Peter Athonite boarded a ship sailing to East. The ship owners, after going ashore, asked St. Peter Athonite to come pray at a certain house, where owner entire household lay sick. St. Peter healed m through his prayer. In year 681, The Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to St. Peter indicated place where he should live till very end of his days Mt. Athos (also referred to as Holy Mountain). He boarded a ship sailed alongside Athos, it n halted of its own accord. St. Peter realized that this place he had to go, so he went ashore. The Monk Peter n dwelt in desolate places of mountain, not seeing anor person for 53 years. His clothing had tattered, but his hair beard had grown out covering his body in place of clothing. At first Monk Peter repeatedly subjected to demonic assaults. Trying to force saint to abon his cave, devils took on form at times of armed soldiers, at or times of fierce beasts vipers that seemed ready to tear apart hermit. But through fervent prayer to God Theotokos, Monk Peter conquered demonic assaults. Then enemy began to resort to trickery. Appearing under guise of a lad, sent to him from his native home, he with tears besought monk to leave wilderness return to his own home. The monk in tears, but without hesitation answered: Here has Lord Voula Giannakopoulos Perry Giannakopoulos Vassio Giannakopoulos Mr. Mrs. Giannakostas Lia Jim Gilmer James Claire Gilmore Dominic Ellie Giovinazzo Evangeline Gouvas Maria Grasso Peter Linda Grivas Mr. & Mrs. Demetrios Hadjisimos & Alexios Monk Alex Penny Halkos Barbara Hall Vickie Henson Constantine Harris Pantelis Polly Hasos Christopher Karine Holmes & Family Chris Victoria de la Motte Hurst In Memory of Theia, Theio Parents Nicholas Celesta Janoulis Anna P. 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Pano Georgia Karatassos Kardaras Family Maria Kalou Kardomateas George Christina Karolis Nick Frances Katapodis Eleny George Katsoudas Krisoula Katsoudas Rall, Vickie Christos Kindred Ted, Vicki, Nick Chris Kipreos Vickie Klemis George Metaxia Kleris Kleomenis Kliossis Sherry, Angelo, Kolin Elliot Kliossis Chris Kliros Alex Diane Kliros Maria Dimitri Konidaris Niki Kosmetatos Andy Anna Kostopoulos Demetrios Toula Kostopoulos & Family Vicky Kouloumberis Jimmy Angela Koulouris Augustina Kouros Greg Koutrelakos & Family Andreas Maria Ladikos Andrew Karine Ladikos Mark Suzy Lamas Connie Lamas Despo Lamas Mr. Mrs. Peter Lamas Lmark Diner Alexria Larsen Stephen Kalliope Lawales Spyridon Clarivel Leitourgis Thomas Paula Lekas Hilmer Lia Leng Nick Anna Letsos Theodoros Soula Levendakis Stephen Angeline Liackos Maria Linardakis Chris Loumakis Carine Macris William Cleo Malires Pat Marinos Far Christos Presbytera Mari Mars Xanthippe Marsico Tom Kay McBride Philip Georgia McClure & Family Athanasios Kathryn Meliopoulos Joanne Mertzanis Michael Zaharoula Millas Mrs. Rita Mookas Mark, Dimitra, Elefria, Erini Nicolette Moraitakis Nicholas Efrosyne Moraitakis Constance Nagle Pete Georgia Nassos Charles C. 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THANK YOU TO OUR 2014 EPITAPHION CONTRIBUTORS! Mr. Mrs. Christopher Adams Van Becky Aggelakos Paul Barbara Albrecht Mike Beverly Alex Carine Alexer Mr. Mrs. George Alexer Lula Alexer Elizabeth Alexer Maria Alexer Marianne Alexer-Beverly Pat Alexer Thomas Alexer Costa Sophia Alexrides Ellen Algers Janet Algers Johnny Ambrocio Mary Anason Georgia Andros Vickie Andros Bill Nicole Androutsopoulos Anonymous Nicholas Carine Argendeli Bessie Ans Ans Pizza Constantine & Fotini Babaliaros Nicholas Baches Ray Barbara Bailey Mr. Mrs. Mike Balsamides Mark Rose Barton Fotiene Bezabhe Biehler Family Big Daddy John Karen Boosalis Van Botsaris Niki Bouras Charlie Virginia Burl Helen Burleigh Chris Maria Callas Mary J. Campbell Theodora Campbell Maria Caras William Betty Caras Mr. Mrs. Jimmy Caras & Family Chris G. Carlos Eula Carlos Helen Carlos & Ron Hilliard Mr. Mrs. John Carlos Theodore Carnegie Fotini Carnegie Connie & Voula Carros Mrs. Nitsa & Kosta Cassras James Georgia Coclin Mrs. Doty Constantinides & Family Mr. Mrs. Demetrios Constantinides & Family Criton Jennifer Constantinides Irene Constantinides Panos Michelle Constantinides Bo Dina Cook & Family Mr. Mrs. Demetrios A. Costarides Vasili Vasso Costarides Stavroula Costarides Vickie Costopoulos Costa Sylvia Costopoulos Mr. Mrs. Jerry Couvaras Family Howard Themis Cramer Norma Mike Creety Mary Jane Czik Diane Reid Davis & Family Mr. Mrs. George Demetriades Rocky Helen Demopoulos Eleni Dodys Nick A. Dodys & Family Joyce Dove Sra Duniga Nick Angela Economy John Jean Economy Christina Evagoras & George Athina Fili Nick Cheryl Forleades James Irene Fotos & Family Mrs. Nini Frangis Raphael Franze Alvin Kathy Galloway Mark, Gina, Jacob & Teddy Gassert Mrs. Mary George Ellen George Les Mary Alice George & Family Stephen Valine Georgeson Pete Pauline Giannakopoulos John Theoni Giannakopoulos Petro Rosi Giannakopoulos Thomas Veneta Giannakopoulos Theotokos led me, without her leave I will not leave from here. Hearing name of Theotokos, demon vanished. The icon depicts a scene from life of St. Peter Athonite, first ascetic of Mount Athos. It shows devil as an angel of light appearing to St. Peter in order to persuade him away from monastic path he endured bravely. The first biography of St. Peter written by St. Gregory Palamas, who relates story behind icon. This is a lesson which teaches us great virtue of humility obedience in withsting demonic attacks deceptions. After seven years devil came before monk in guise of a luminous angel said that God comming him to go into world for enlightening salvation of people needful of his guidance. The experienced ascetic again replied, that without permission of Theotokos he would not forsake wilderness. The devil disappeared did not bor to approach saint any more. The Theotokos appeared to Monk Peter in a dream toger with St. Nicholas said to brave hermit, that each 40 days an Angel would bring him Heavenly manna. From that time Monk Peter fasted for 40 days, on fortieth day he fortified himself with Heavenly manna, receiving strength for a furr forty-day abstinence. Once, a hunter chasing after a stag saw naked man, covered with hair girded about loins with leaves. He afraid about to flee, but St. Peter stopped him told him of his life. The hunter asked to remain with him, but saint sent him home. St. Peter gave hunter a year for self-examination forbade him to tell anyone about meeting him. A year later hunter returned with his bror, who afflicted with a demon, several or companions. When y entered St. Peter's cave, y saw that he had already reposed. The hunter, with bitter tears, told his companions of life of St. Peter. His bror, after merely touching saint's body, received healing. St. Peter died in year 734 AD. His holy relics were on Athos at monastery of St. Clement. During Iconoclast period relics were hidden away, in year 969 AD y were transferred to Thracian village of Photokami. St. Peter once saw Theotokos in a vision, she spoke of Her earthly domain, Mount Athos: "I have chosen this mountain... have received it from My Son God as an inheritance, for those who wish to forsake worldly cares strife... Exceedingly do I love this place. I will aid those who come to dwell here who labor for God... keep His commments... I will lighten ir afflictions labors, shall be an invincible ally for monks, invisibly guiding guarding m..." Generations of Orthodox monks can attest to truth of se words. The Theotokos is regarded as Abbess of Holy Mountain, not just in name, but also in fact. For this reason, Mt. Athos is known as "Garden of Theotokos". Compiled, shortened, explained from book entitled The Synaxarion. +Rev. Fr. Christos P. Mars 24 5
The Fast of Holy Apostles The Apostles' Fast, also called Fast of Holy Apostles, Fast of Peter Paul, or sometimes simply St. Peter's Fast, is observed by faithful of Eastern Churches (both Catholics Orthodox). It is one of four periods of fasting hed down through Holy Tradition. The ors being Great Lent, Nativity Fast Dormition Fast. The Apostles' Fast begins on second Monday after Pentecost ( day following All Saints' Sunday) continues until Feast of Saints Peter Paul on June 29 th. Having rejoiced for fifty days following Pascha, Resurrection of Jesus Christ, Apostles began to prepare for ir departure from Jerusalem to spread Christ's message throughout world. According to Sacred Tradition, as part of ir preparation, y began a fast with prayer to ask God to strengn ir resolve to be with m during ir missionary efforts as y spread Gospel. The Biblical foundation for Fast is found in Synoptic Gospels, when Pharisees criticized Apostles for not fasting. Jesus said to m, "Can wedding guests mourn as long as bridegroom is with m? The day will come, when bridegroom is taken away from m, n y will fast. (Matw 9:15) Our Lord, in this passage, referring to Himself being taken to be crucified; but in larger sense se words of Lord are understood in terms of His Ascension into heaven, His comm to preach Gospel, which can only be accomplished with prayer fasting. The New Testament mentions practice of fasting many times. The tradition of Apostles' Fast has existed at least since Pope Leo I (461 AD), as is evidenced by his homilies, though it has subsequently passed from practice in West. There is also reference of this fast in East from St. Athanasios Great (373 AD). He talks about fast that falls after Pentecost in his homilies. The Fast is thought to have been instituted out of thanksgiving to God for witness of Apostles of Our Lord. With this Fast, faithful express ir thanks for Apostles' endurance of persecution during ir mission. During this fast period we are allowed to eat fish. We are not allowed to eat red meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs. Fish is allowed every day during fast except for Wednesdays Fridays. The same is also true for Feast of Nativity of St. John Baptist (June 24 th ) as we are allowed to eat fish on this feast day no matter what day of week it occurs. If feast day of S.S. Peter Paul happens to fall on a Wednesday or Friday you are allowed to break fast by eating fish only, no meat or dairy products because it is a Wednesday or Friday. Golden Group News The Golden Group is on vacation for summer will start up again in October. During 2013-2014, Golden Group sponsored nine luncheons. Each luncheon sponsored by a church organization. At every luncheon re were speakers, entertainment /or raffles. The Golden Group also sponsors an outing every month. This year we took a trip to Warm Springs, Georgia, where President Franklin Roosevelt vacationed. We also sponsored a Christmas dinner, visited Conyers Monastery, Paracletos Monastery, Diakonia Center in South Carolina. In April we visited Breman Museum here in Atlanta to see - Return to Rich s The Story Behind Store. This a treat especially for our native Atlantans. A docent took us through exhibit shared a lot of information about owners of Rich s. The group also ate lunch in tea room! The Golden Group committee could not have accomplished all of se events without our energetic Chairman, Mary Anne Chanos. Mary Anne is full of ideas has a lot of energy. However, everyone on committee contributes ideas. Mary Anne has been Chairman of Golden Group for six years. Sadly for us she has decided to step down as Chairman. However, we are fortunate that she will continue to participate on committee. Meet Your Golden Group Committee The amount of time that this fast takes up is always changing, based on when date Easter occurs. When does it begin? It begins on Monday after Sunday of All Saints it concludes on June 28 th, fore feast of S.S. Peter Paul. This way it is possible, via old calendar, to last up to 42 days if Easter occurs on March 22 nd. However with new calendar, which we use today, it can never be more than 30 days. There are some times when Sunday of All Saints can fall after June 27 th, which happens when Easter is celebrated between May 5 th to 8 th. When this happens we do not have any fast of Holy Apostles. Prepared by Rev. Fr. Christos P. Mars Pictured Above: Elefria Moraitakis, Mary Anne Chanos Chairman, Mary Balsamides, Joyce Dove, George Peppas, Manuel Petkas, Bess Dimos, Mary Jones, Mary Poulos, Joanne Jones, Mike Tsurutis, El Winegar, Shirley Rumanes, Jean Economy 6 23
jh nhsteiva tw'n ajgivwn japostovlwn 1. Miva ajkovmh makrav perivodo" nhsteiva" ei\nai hj legovmenh nhsteiva tw'n ajgiwn japostovlwn. jonomavzetai e[tsi diovti prohgei'tai tw'n duvo ajpostolikw'n ejortw'n: th'" ejorth'" tw'n ajgivwn prwtokorufaivwn ajpostovlwn Pevtrou kaiv Pauvlou, 29 jiounivou, kaiv th'" <<Sunavxew" tw'n Dwvdeka japostovlwn>>, 30 jiounivou. Suvnaxh tw'n ajgivwn japostov lwn o{tan levme, ejnnoou'me thv sunavqroish tw'n pistw'n giav thvn prosforav th'" qeiva" Eujcaristiva" prov" timhvn o{lwn genikav tw'n Dwvdeka japostovlwn, tw'n ojpoivwn thv mnhvmh ejortavzei kaiv xecwristav giva tovn kaqevna hj jekklhsiva ma". 2. JH cronikhv diavrkeia aujth'" th'" periovdou ei\nai ajkaqovristh ejpeidhv hj e[narxhv th" ejxarta'tai ajpov thvn kinhthv ejorthv tou' Pasca. Povte ajrcivzei_ jarcivzei thv Deutevra metav thvn Kuriakhv tw'n ajgivwn Pavntwn kaiv lhvgei staqerav thvn 28h jiounivou, paramonhv th'" ejorth'" tw'n ajgivwn ajpostovlwn Pevtrou kaiv Pauvlou. [Etsi ei\nai dunatovn na diarkevsi katav tov palaiov hjmerolovgio mevcri kaiv saravnta duvo hjmevre", a[n tov Pavsca sumpevsei stiv" 22 Martivou. jenw' katav tov nevo hjmerolovgio pouv ijscuvei shvmera, devn ujperbaivnei potev tiv" triavnta hjmevre". Merikev" forev" mavlista, o{tan hj Kuriakhv tw'n ajgivwn Pavntwn sumpevsei metav tiv" 27 jiounivou--o{pw" sumbaivnei o{tan tov Pavsca ejortavzetai ajpo tiv" 5 w{" tiv" 8 Mai?ou--tovte devn e[coume kaqovlou nhsteiva. Twvra, a[n levgetai kaiv hj perivodo' aujthv Tessarakosthv, ojnomavzetai katacrhstikav, ajfou' potev devn ftavnei tiv" saravnta hjmevra"--toulavciston mev to nevo hjmerolovgio. JH shmasiva, ejpomevnw", pouv giav thvn perivodo aujthv proslambavnei oj o{ro" Tessarakosthv, ei\nai th'" ejgkravteia" kaiv th'" nhsteiva". 3. JH u{parxh aujth'" th'" nhsteiva" marturei'tai ajpov poluv palaiav, ajpov tovn a{gio kaiv Mevga jaqanavsio kaiv tiv" japostolikev" Diatagev". Oiv teleutai'e" sunistou'n scetikav: <<Metav ou\n tov ejortavsai ujma'" thvn Penthkosthvn ejortavsate mivan ejbdomavda, kaiv met j ejkeivnhn nhsteuvsate mivan: divkaion gavr kaiv eujfranqh'nai ejpiv th'/ ejk Qeou' dwrea'/ kaiv nhsteu'sai metav thvn a[nesin.>> Katav thvn ejbdomavda metav thvn Penthkosthv topoqetei' thv nhsteiva kaiv oj Mevga" jaqanavsio". japov tiv" marturive" aujtev" sunavgoume o{ti poluv privn ojrisqei' hj ejorthv tw'n ajgivwn ajpostovlwn Pevtrou kaiv Pauvlou stiv" 29 jiounivou--hj ejorthv eijshvcqh sthvn Kwnstantinouvpolh ajpov thv Rwvmh katav tovn EV aijwna--, hj nhsteiva h\tan ejptahvmera kaiv sundeovtan mev thvn penthkosthv ejpeidhv metav ajpov aujthvn oij japostoloi <<nhsteusan te" kaiv proseuxavmenoi>>(pravx. 13,3) a]rcisan tov khruktikov tou" e[rgo. Giav tovn lovgo aujtov kaiv ojnomavsthke nhsteiva tw'n ajgivwn japostovlwn. jargovtera dev, o{tan kaqierwvqhke hj ajpostolikhv ejorthv, hj nhsteiva parataqhke mevcri thvn 29h jiounivou kaiv qewrhvqhke wj" perivodo" proetoimasiva" giav thvnejorthv. Mev aujtov tov pneu'ma ajntilambavnetai tiv" parapavnw marturive" kaiv oj a{gio" Nikovdhmo" oj JAgioreivth", ejrmhneuvonta" tovn 69o japostolikov Kanovna. Sthv nhsteiva tw'n ajgivwn japostovlwn ajnafevrontai ajrgovtera oj janastavsio" Sinai?th", o Ja{gio" Qeovdwro" oj Stoudivth", oj a{gio" Nikhfovro" oj JOmologhthv", patriavrch" Kwnstantinoupovlew", kaiv oj Qeovdwro" Balsamwvn. 4. Pw'" prevpei nav nhsteuvoumen katav thv nhsteiva aujth_ {Opw" ei\nai gnwstov, kaiv se aujthv thv nhsteiva ejpitrevpetai nav kataluvoume yavri, ejnw' ajpevcoume ajpov kreva", galakterav kaiv aujgav. Yavri trw'me, a[n qevloume, o{le' tiv" hjmevre", ejktov' fusikav th'" Tetavrth" kaiv th'" Paraskeuh'" katav tiv" ojpi'e" e[coume aujsthrhvnhsteiva. Tov i[dio ijscuvei--dhladhv nhsteuvoume aujsterav--kaiv giav thvn paramonhv th'" ejorth'", ejktov" ki a[n sumpevsi Savbbato h[ Kuriakhv. Yariv kataluvoume kaiv katav thvn ejorthv tou' Genesivou tou' Timivou Prodrovmou (24 jiounivou), ojpoiadhvpote hjmera ki a[n pevsei. [An hj ejorth tw'n ajg. japostovlwn Pevtrou kaiv Pauvlou (29 jiounivou) pevsei hjmera Tetavrth h[ Paraskeuhv, kataluvoume movno yariv. 22 7
T COUNCIL OUNCIL THE HE FFIRST IRST EECUMENICAL CUMENICAL C On sixth week after Easter every year we On sixth week after Easter every year we commemorate Holy 318 Fars of First commemorate Holy 318 Fars of First Ecumenical Council, which took place in Nicaea (a small Ecumenical Council, which took place in Nicaea (a small city in Northwest part of Asia Minor, close to city in Northwest part of Asia Minor, close to Constantinople) in 325 AD. It almost goes without saying Constantinople) in 325 AD. It almost goes without saying that significance impact of this Council that significance impact of this Council so tremendous for Church that in contemporary so tremendous for Church that in contemporary Church History Studies, we distinguish historical Church History Studies, we distinguish historical periods in A nte-nicene Post-Nicene era. For first periods in A nte-nicene Post-Nicene era. For first time, entire Body of Church gared in this time, entire Body of Church gared in this Council in order to articulate very fundamental Council in order to articulate very fundamental teachings teachings ofof Christianity Christianity convey convey m m in in aa certain certain unchangeable way, striving to maintain truth, unchangeable way, striving to maintain truth, which which Christ Himself revealed, confront or prevent Christ Himself revealed, confront or prevent any any heretical deviations. Likewise, Fars who heretical deviations. Likewise, Fars who participated participated inin Nicene Nicene Council Council issued issued first first 20 20 Canons of Church. These Canons laid foundation Canons of Church. These Canons laid foundation ofof Christian Christian ethos ethos which which manifested manifested as as Church Churchexperienced experiencedgrowth. growth. Though Though entirety entirety of of Church Church came came toger toger for for first firsttime timeafter after Apostolic Apostolic Council Council (48 (48 AD) AD) functioned functioned asas one one Body, Body, many many Christian Christian entities entities nowadays, nowadays,especially especially Reformation Reformation Churches, Churches, dispute character character of of Council. Council. According According to ir perspective, perspective, vibrancy vibrancyof of apostolic apostolic message message died in Nicene Nicene Council Council Church Church reduced reduced from a charismatic charismaticsociety society toto aa State State Institution. Institution. They They describe this this institutionalization institutionalization of of Church Church with with term Constantianism Constantianism thus thus y y blame blame St. St. Constantine Constantine as one onewho whomanipulated manipulated Church Church for for his his own own political purposes. purposes. Neverless,this thisarticle article does does not not aim aim to disprove Neverless, Protestant Protestantperspective. perspective. Their Their failure failure to to achieve achieve even minimum minimum consensus, consensus, constitutes constitutes aa problem problem of ir own on onno noaccount account should should y y envy envy accuse St. own Constantine Great, Great,who whocontributed contributed remarkably remarkably to Constantine Church sunity. Unity. Church s 325 AD, AD, inin Nicaea, Nicaea, Church Church had had to to face face aa InIn325 threat coming coming from from within. within. The The persecutions persecutions from from threat RomanState Statehad hadbeen beenterminated terminated 13 13 years years earlier earlier by by Roman Edictofof Milan Milan (312 (312 AD). AD). Christians Christians now now were were free free to to Edict declare practice practice ir ir faith faith publically. publically. Moreover, Moreover, declare Roman Emperor Constantine, even though he Roman Emperor Constantine, even though he not Christian yet, showing favoritism toward not Christian yet, showing favoritism toward Christianity. His troops were marching under Christian Christianity. His troops were marching under Christian Symbols, whereas his flag with sign of Cross, Symbols, whereas his flag with sign of Cross, described by his contemporary historians as an described by his contemporary historians as an Invincible weapon. Invincible weapon. Constantine a skilled general indeed, who Constantine a skilled general indeed, who never defeated in battle with his adeptness as a never defeated in battle with his adeptness as a capable political ruler. He managed to reunite Roman capable political ruler. He managed to reunite Roman Empire after it had been divided into four entities Empire after it had been divided into four entities (Tetrachy, τετραρχία) become sole emperor. (Tetrachy, τετραρχία) become sole emperor. However, despite despite his his exclusive exclusive sovereignty, sovereignty, he he never never However, interfered in in Church s Church s affairs. affairs. And And Nicene NiceneCouncil Councilisis interfered proof of of this this fact. fact. proof To illustrate illustrate this this point, point, we wemust mustask askwhat what To reason for for calling calling Council? Council? In In beginning beginningofof reason fourth century century aa presbyter presbyter in in Alexria, Alexria, Egypt, Egypt,whose whose fourth name Arius, Arius, introduced introducedaanew newteaching. teaching.struggling Strugglingtoto name interpret first first chapter chapter of of John s John s Gospel, Gospel, In In interpret beginning itit Word (Jn Word (Jn 1:1), 1:1), he heargued arguedthat thatthis this beginning verse says says that that Word Word very very first first creature creatureofof verse God not not begotten begotten by by God. God. In In or orwords, words,he hetaught taught God Christ not not Son Son of ofgod, God,but butcreated createdby by that Jesus Christ started spreading spreading this this new new heretical heretical doctrine doctrine God. He started incomprehensible phrase: phrase: "re "re once once (a(a with incomprehensible when he he ( ( Word) Word) not" not" meaning that that time) when,, meaning not eternal eternal refore refore isis not not same same Word is not with Far. Far. Though Though this thisdoctrine doctrineconstituted constituted essence with obvious deviation deviation from from fundamental fundamental teaching, teaching, an obvious which clearly clearly declares declares that that Christ Christ isis Word WordofofGod, God, begotten before before all all ages, ages, many many followed followedarius, Arius,because, because, he, most likely, as a respected priest in his area, likely, as a respected priest in his area,frankly frankly he capable of influencing a multitude of people. capable of influencing a multitude of people. Soon, Soon, new new Arianistic Arianistic doctrines doctrines were were spread spread beyond Alexria. This impetus defining Alexria. This impetus defining moment when when several several bishops bishops appealed appealed toto Emperor Emperor Constantine, asking for his help. Constantine, at that Constantine, asking for his help. Constantine, at thattime, time, at peak of his power he could have solved at peak of his power he could have solved controversy by issuing a law, or a prohibition. controversy by issuing a law, or a prohibition. Noneless, Noneless, he he left left Church Churchtotomake make decision. decision.his His role specifically calling of Council his role specifically calling of Council his full full sponsorship sponsorship of of it. it. Throughout Throughout lengths lengths 8 8 Holy Week Highlights 21
Pascha Picnic 20 widths of Empire, letters were sent, inviting widths of Empire, were sent, inviting venerable bishops clergyletters to participate. venerable bishops clergy to participate. Thus, 318 delegates from local Churches were Thus, 318 delegates from local Churches were gared in Nicaea on May 20thth of year 325 AD. gared in Nicaea on May 20 of year 325 AD. Constantine had decided to be President of Constantine had decided to be President of Council, but when he encountered some Christian Council, but when he encountered some Christian bishops monks who bore in ir bodies signs of bishops monks who bore in ir bodies signs of martyrdom persecutions, he sat aside out of martyrdom persecutions, he sat aside out of respect for m he refused to sit on his throne. respect for m he refused to sit on his throne. Unfortenately, minutes of Council have not Unfortenately, minutes of Council have not survived in order to inform us who assigned to take survived in order to inform us who assigned to take over presidential duties. The sources that are over presidential duties. The sources that are available to us name following hierarchs as leaders, available to us name following hierarchs as leaders, Hosius, bishop of Cordoba, Ephstathios, bishop of Hosius, bishop of Cordoba, Ephstathios, bishop of Antioch Antioch Eusebius, Eusebius, bishop bishop of of Nicomedia. Nicomedia. However, However, we cannot know for sure who appointed as president. we cannot know for sure who appointed as president. When When Arius Arius started started to to present present his his doctrines, doctrines, his his oratorical talent revealed. Nobody, from fars oratorical talent revealed. Nobody, from fars took took courage courage toto st st forth forth respond respond back, back, though though y all acknowledged falseness of Ariantistic y all acknowledged falseness of Ariantistic doctrines. doctrines.st. St.Spyridon, Spyridon, bishop bishop of of Trimithous, Trimithous, aa humble humble Christian Shepherd from Cyprus, performed a miracle: Christian Shepherd from Cyprus, performed a miracle: he he took a brick as he holding it in his h, took a brick as he holding it in his h, brick brick dissolved dissolvedinto into three three basic basic elements, elements, which which consist consistof: of:clay, clay,water water fire. fire.thus, Thus, St. St. Spyridon Spyridon proved proved unity unityofof Holy HolyTrinity, Trinity, by by illustrating illustrating that that each each Divine DivinePerson Person(i.e. (i.e. Far, Far, Son, Son, Holy Holy Spirit) Spirit) though He functions functions differently, differently, sustains sustains unity unity of of The Holy Trinity, Trinity, with with his his own own distinctive distinctive way. way. St. St. Nicholas, bishop bishopofof Myra, Myra, aa small small city city in in Asia Asia Minor, Minor, indignant with witharius Arius blasphemies, blasphemies, during during aa break break of of Council heheapproached approached Arius, Arius, slapped slapped him him in in face. For thisaction actionhe he put putininprison, prison, but but few few days days after after he this releasedmiraculously. miraculously. released Noneofofse seincidents, incidents, however, however, softened softened Arius None heart. Day to day, he becoming more arrogant heart. Day to day, he becoming more arrogant moreoffensive. offensive.and Andwhen whenall all indications indications were were that Arius more about about toto prevail, prevail, aa bishop bishop started started refuting refuting Arius heresies.itit Alexros Alexros Bishop Bishop of of Alexria. Alexria. In heresies. factitit not not Alexros, Alexros, but but his his deacon deacon Athanasius, Athanasius, fact who,asasaadeacon, deacon, not not allowed allowed to to speak speak publically publically in in who, presence presenceofofbishops. bishops. Thus, Thus, Athanasius Athanasius whispered whispered answerstotohis hisbishop s bishop s ear ear Arius Arius started started losing losing his his answers arrogant confidence. confidence. Deacon Deacon Athanasius, Athanasius, who who later later arrogant became bishop bishop of of Alexria Alexria he he is is known known as as St. St. became Athanasius Great, Great, became became Orthodox Orthodox ological ological Athanasius mind tongue of first Ecumenical Council, who mind tongue of who conveyed in words whatfirst Ecumenical rest of Council, God-Bearing conveyed in words what rest of God-Bearing fars kept in ir hearts maintained during fars kept in ir hearts maintained during Council in silence prayer. Finally, Holy Synod of Council in silence prayer. Finally, Holy Synod of Nicaea condemned heretical doctrines of Arius Nicaea condemned heretical doctrines of Arius crystallized Orthodox teachings in a confession of crystallized Orthodox teachings in a confession of faith, known as The Nicene Creed: We believe in one faith, known as The Nicene Creed: We believe in one God Far all mighty, Creator of heaven earth God Far all mighty, Creator of heaven earth of all things visible invisible. And in one Lord of all things visible invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, only-begotten Son of God, begotten Jesus Christ, only-begotten Son of God, begotten from Far, before all ages. Light of light, true from Far, before all ages. Light of light, true God of true God, begotten, not created, of one essence God of true God, begotten, not created, of one essence with Far, through Whom all things were made. with Far, through Whom all things were made. Who for us men for our salvation came from Who for us men for our salvation came from heaven incarnate incarnate of of Holy HolySpirit Spirit heaven Virgin Mary Mary became became man. man. He He Crucified Crucifiedfor for Virgin us under under Pontius Pontius Pilate Pilate suffered suffered buried; buried; us according toto He He rose rose on on third third day, day, according scriptures. He He ascended ascended into into heaven heaven isisseated seatedatat scriptures. right right h h of of Far; Far; he hewill willcome comeagain again with glory glory to to judge judge living living dead; dead; His His with kingdom shall shall have have no no end. end. And And inin Holy Holy kingdom Spirit (The (The Cr Creed eed as as we we have have rreceived eceived itit today today Spirit nd nd completed in in 22 Ecumenical Council Council inin completed Ecumenical Constantinople 381 381 AD, AD, that s that s why why proper propername nameisis Constantinople Nicene/Constantinople Creed). Creed). Nicene/Constantinople first Ecumenical Ecumenical Council Council inin Nicaea Nicaea The first th th in August August 25 25 325 325 AD, AD, when when Emperor Emperor concluded in Constantine, first first person person toto read read Creed Creed Constantine, during Divine Divine Liturgy. Liturgy.In Inthis thiscouncil Council publically, during acquired name name Orthodox, Orthodox, asas opposed opposed toto Church acquired (αίρεσις), since since Church Church has has Right Right heresy, (αίρεσις), Faith (Ορθή (Ορθή Δόξα). Δόξα). Also, Also, Nicene Nicene Council Council first Ecumenical Ecumenical (Universal) (Universal) Council, Council, which whichproved provedthat that Divine Word Word is is infallible. infallible. This ThisCouncil Councilsolidified solidified fact, that no individual can claim ex officio infallibility, no individual can claim ex officio infallibility, except entirety entirety of of Church. Church. As As Apostles Apostles gared toger in Jerusalem came up with toger in Jerusalem came up with one one decision as equals, so Holy Fars did in Nicaea. equals, so Holy Fars did in Nicaea.InIn one word, Holy Holy Fars Fars of of First First Ecumenical Ecumenical Council manifested with ir example ir devotion Council manifested with ir example ir devotiontoto One, One, Holy, Holy, Catholic Catholic Apostolic ApostolicChurch ChurchofofChrist. Christ. Elias Elias Lampropoulos Lampropoulos 9 9
Η Πρώτη Οικουμενική Σύνοδος Την έκτη εβδομάδα μετά το Πάσχα η Εκκλησία μας τιμά τη μνήμη των 318 Πατέρων της Πρώτης Οικουμενικής Συνόδου, η οποία ἐλαβε χώρα στη Νίκαια (μια μικρή πόλη στη Βορειό-Δυτική πλευρά της Μικράς Ασίας, κοντά στην Κωνσταντινούπολη) το 325 μχ. Η Σύνοδος αυτή έδρασε τόσο καταλυτικά στη ζωή της Εκκλησίας, ώστε σήμερα η Εκκλησιαστική Ιστορία να διαιρείται σε Προ-Νικαιϊκή και Μετά-Νικαιϊκή Εποχή. Για πρώτη φορά στη Σύνοδο αυτή, το Σώμα της Εκκλησίας συνάχθηκε στο σύνολό του, ώστε να διασαφηνίσει ένα από τα θεμελιωδέστερα δόγαμτα της Εκκλησίας και να το εκφράσει με αποφασιστικότητα και σαφήνεια, διαφυλάττοντας έτσι την αλήθεια, που ο ίδιος ο Χριστός μας αποκάλυψε, ανόθευτη από κάθε λογής αιρετική απόκλιση. Επιπλέον, οι Πατέρες της Συνόδου στη Νίκαια καθιέρωσαν και τους πρώτους 20 Ιερούς Κανόνες, οι οποίοι απετέλεσαν τους δείκτες του χριστιανικού ήθους, καθώς η χριστιανική πίστη διαδιδόταν όλο και περισσότεορο, μέρα με τη μέρα και συχνά οι πιστοί ζητούσαν απαντήσεις. Όμως, παρά το γεγονός ότι η Εκκλησία στο σύνολό της συνεκλήθη για πρώτη φορά στη Νίκαια, μετά την Αποστολική Σύνοδο (48μχ) ως ένα Σώμα, σήμερα πολλές χριστιανικές ομολογίες, ιδιαιτέρως Προτεσταντικές, θεωρούν πως η Συνόδος αυτή είχε αρνητικά αποτελέσματα για την Εκκλησία. Κατά τη δική τους εκτίμηση, η Εκκλησία έχασε στη Σύνοδο της Νίκαιας τη ζωντάνια της Αποστολικής Μαρτυρίας, και, από ένα Χαρισματικό Σώμα κατάντησε να γίνει ένας ακόμα θεσμός της Πολιτείας. Περιγράφουν μάλιστα τη θεσμοποίηση που υπέστη η Εκκλησία με τον όρο Κωνσταντινιασμός και έτσι κατηγορύν τον Μέγα Κωνσταντίνο ότι εκμεταλλεύτηκε την Εκκλησία για δικές του πολιτικές σκοπιμότητες. Ωστόσο, αυτό το άρθρο δεν σκοπεύει να ανασκευάσει την προτεσταντική σκοπιά. Το γεγονός ότι απέτυχαν να συμφωνήσουν, ακόμα και μεταξύ τους, στο ελάχιστο, είναι δικό τους πρόβλημα και δεν νομίζω ότι επ ουδενί λόγω θα πρέπει να κατηγορούν το Μέγα Κωνσταντίνο, ο οποίος συνεισέφερε τα μέγιστα στην ενότητα της Εκκλησίας. Το 325 μχ στη Νίκαια, η Εκκλησία είχε να αντιμετωπίσει ένα εχθρό εκ των έσω. Οι διωγμοί από τις Ρωμαϊκές Αρχές είχαν τερματιστεί 13 χρόνια νωρίτερα με το Διάταγμα των Μεδιολάνων (312 μχ). Οι Χριστιανοί ήταν πλέον ελεύθεροι να διακηρύττουν την πίστη τους και τελούν τη λατρεία τους δημόσια. Επίσης, ο Ρωμαίος Αυτοκράτορας Κωνσταντίνος, ενώ δεν είχε Βαπτιστεί Χριστιανός ακόμα, έδειχνε έμπρακτα την υποστήριξή του στην Εκκλησία. Ο στράτος του παρήλαυνε με χριστιανικά εμβλήματα, ενώ η σημαία του με το σημείο του Σταυρού, περιγραφόταν από τους συγχρονούς του ιστορικούς ως «αήττητον τρόπαιον». Ο Κωνσταντίνος δεν ήταν μόνο ένας ικανότατος στρατηγός, που ποτέ δεν ηττήθηκε σε μάχη, αλλά συνάμα υπήρξε και ένας χαρισματικός πολιτικός. Κατόρθψσε να ξαναενώσει την κατακερματισμένη Ρωμαϊκή Αυτοκρατορία και από Τετραρχία, να την ξανακάνερι μία Αρχή με τον εαυτό του μοναδικό αυτοκράτορα. Όμως παρά την παντοδυναμία του, ποτέ δεν παρενέβη στα ζητήματα της Εκκλησίας. Και η Σύνοδος της Νικαίας αποτελεί την έμπρακτη απόδειξη της ελευθερίας που έδωσε στην Εκκλησία. Για να κατανοήσουμε πλήρως την αξία της Πρώτης Οικουμενικής Συνόδου θα πρέπει πρώτα να δούμε ποιος ήταν ο λόγος σύγκλησής της. Στις αρχές του 4 ου αιώνα ένας πρεσβύτερος στην Αλεξάνδρεια της Αιγύπτου που ονομαζόταν Άρειος, εισήγαγε μια νέα διδασκαλία: Ποσπαθώντας να ερμηνεύσει το πρώτο κεφάλαιο του Κατά Ιωάννη Ευαγγελίου, «Εν αρχή ην ο Λόγος» (Ιω 1:1) υποστήριξε ότι αυτός ο στίχος υπονοεί πως ο Λόγος ήταν δημιούργημα του Θεού και όχι Υιός του. Με άλλα λόγια, δίδασκε ότι ο Ιησούς Χριστός δεν γεννήθηκε αλλά πλάστηκε από το Θεό. Άρχισε μάλιστα να διαδίδει αυτή την αιρετική διδασκαλία χρησιμοποιώντας τη δυσκολονόητη φράση «ην ποτέ ότε ουκ ήν» (ην ποτέ [χρόνος] ότε [ο Λόγος]ουκ ην), εννοώντας ότι ο Λόγος δεν είναι αιώνιος και επομένως δεν προέρχεται από την ίδια ουσία με τον πατέρα. Ενώ η διαδασκαλία αυτή καταφανώς απέκλινε από τη θεμελειώδη διδασκαλία της Εκκλησίας, η οποία διδάσκει ότι ο Χριστός είναι ο Λόγος του Θεού γεννηθείς εκ του Πατρός προ πάντων των αιώνων, πολλοί ήταν αυτοί που ακολούθησαν τον Άρειο, επειδή, προφανώς, σαν πρεσβύτερος ήταν σεβάσμιος, αλλά και επειδή, όπως φαίνεται είχε τη δυνατότητα να επηρεάζει. Σύντομα, η αίρεση των αρειανών υπερέβη τα όρια της Αλεξάνδρειας. Η ταχεία διάδοση της νέας αίρεσης ήταν και ο λόγος που επέβαλε τη σύγκληση Συνόδου, μιας και οι επίσκοποι της περιοχής εκείνης έγραφαν επιστολές προς τον αυτοκράτορα και ζητούσαν τη βοήθειά του. Ο αυτοκράτορας Κωνσταντίνος, βρισκόταν τότε στο απόγειο της δύναμής του και θα μπορούσε να έχει ξεκαθαρίσει το θέμα, απλώς με ένα του διάταγμα. Αντίθετα, χωρίς να προβεί στην παραμικρή επίδειξη δύναμης, άφησε την Genesis Shelter Donation During months of February through April, Atlanta Chapter of Philoptochos sponsored two diaper drives, followed up by a drive for powdered laundry detergent toilet paper for Genesis Shelter. The Genesis Shelter started in 1994 serves 3000 individuals 1200 families in Atlanta area, providing a supportive environment that enables homeless newborns ir families to achieve positive life outcomes for this generation those to come. Members of our Annunciation Cadral stepped up to call during coldest wettest months of this year helped to restock se much needed items at Genesis Shelter. Pictured Above: Mary Pate - Genesis Shelter Vickie Klemis Suzy Lamas Valine Georgeson 10 19
Congratulations to 2013-14 Greek School graduates! Niko Avradopoulos Ana Hadjipanayis Elena Karas Demetrios Mammas Diana Syribeys Iris Tsouris Christina Barton The Greek School participated in Youth Sunday on May 18 th by reciting The Creed, The Lord's Prayer singing Χριστός Aνέστη! On Monday, May 19 th, we held our End of Year Program honoring our graduates promotion of student in our program. Graduates received caps tassels, special flowers diplomas with a signature cake highlighting ir names in Greek. The Greek School PTA presented each student with an Amazon gift card. The promotion of students in Kindergarten through Level 4 included a certificate of completion eir "Say it in Greek" or Aesop's Fable "The Tortoise Hare." Students in Level 2 class also received from Mrs. Georgia Vastakis, President of Hellenic Women's Cultural Association Greek English dictionaries courtesy of organization. Many thanks for ir annual support of our school! Thank you to Lykion Ellinidon Atlanta for Protomayia Eithi Kai Ethima - Traditions of May 1 st celebration workshop that Lykion ton Ellinidon Atlanta Chapter presented to students of our Greek Language School. The workshop, which is part of organization's educational outreach, included construction of traditional flower wreaths by children with help of parents, teachers Lykion volunteers that were n hung on front doors of homes. Thank you to students, parents teachers for anor successful year! Registration for 2014-15 is underway. Please contact Greek School Coordinator, Michelle Constantinides, michelle.constantinides@gmail.com to register or for more information. Εκκλησία να αποφασίσει. Ανέλαβε μόνο να συγκαλέσει τη Σύνοδο να στείλει γράμματα στις Εκκλησίες σε όλα τα μήκη και πλάτη της αυτοκρατορίας και, κυρίως, ανέλαβε να καλύψει το κόστος όλου αυτού του εγχειρήματος. Έτσι, 318 εκπρόσωποι συναθροίστηκαν στη Νίκαια στις 20 Μαΐου του έτους 325 μχ. Ο κωνσταντίνος είχε αποφασίσει να προεδρεύσει της Συνόδου, όταν όμως είδε ότι ανάμεσα στους επισκόπους και μοναχούς που είχαν έρθει αρκετοί έφεραν στο σώμα τους τα σημάδια του μαρτυρίου και των διωγμών, άλλαξε γνώμη και από σεβασμό προς αυτούς τους ομολογητές, αρνήθηκε να καθίσει στο θρόνο του. Τα Πρακτικά της Συνόδου δυστυχώς δεν σώθηκαν για να μας πληροφορήσουν σε ποιον ανετέθη η προεδρία. Στις ιστορικές πηγές της εποχής αναφέρονται τα ονόματα των Οσίου, επισκόπου Κορδούης, Ευσταθίου, επισκόπου Αντιοχείας και Ευσεβίου επισκόπου Νικομηδείας, χωρίς ωστόσο να γνωρίζουμε ποιος ορίστηκε πρόεδρος τελικά. Όταν ο Άρειος άρχισε να παρουσιάζει τις διδασκαλίες του, αμέσως φάνηκε το ρητορικό του χάρισμα. Κανένας από τους πατέρες δεν μπορούσε να σταθεί απέναντί του και να του απαντήσει, αν και όλοι συναισθάνονταν την κακοδοξία του. Ο Άγιος Σπυρίδων, ένας ταπεινός πνευματικός ποιμένας από την Τριμυθούντα της Κύπρου, τέλεσε ένα θαύμα μπροστά στα μάτια όλων. Σήκωσε από τη γη ένα τούβλο και κρατώντας το χέρι του, το τούβλο διαλύθηκε στα τρία βασικά χαρακτηριστικά του: πηλό, νερό και φωτιά. Με αυτό το συμβολικό τρόπο ο Άγιος Σπυρίδων έδειξε την ενότητα της Αγίας Τριάδας, διδάσκοντας πως κάθε Πρόσωπο (Πατήρ, Υιός και Άγιο Πνέυμα) αν και ενεργεί με τρόπο προσωπικό, συνεισφέρει στην ενότητα της Μίας Θείας Ουσίας. Ο Άγιος Νικόλαος, επίσκοπων των Μύρων της Λυκίας, μιας μικρής πόλης στα Νοτιο-Ανατολικά της Μικράς Ασίας, σε ένα διάλειμμα της Συνόδου πλησίασε τον Άρειο και τον χαστούκισε. Για την πράξη του αυτή φυσικά φυλακίστηκε, αλλά μετά από λίγες μέρες ελευθερώθηκε με θαυμαστό τρόπο. Εντούτοις, κανένα από όλα αυτά τα περιστατικά δεν στάθηκε ικανό να μαλακώσει την καρδιά του Αρείου. Μέρα με τη μέρα γινόταν πιο επιθετικός και πιο αλλαζόνας. Και όταν όλα έδειχναν ότι πρόκειται να υπερισχύσει, ένας από τους παριστάμενους επισκόπους άρχισε να αναιρεί τις ματαιολογούμενες αιρετικές διδασκαλίες. Ήταν ο Αλέξανδρος, επίσκοπος Αλεξανδρείας. Στην πραγματικότητα δεν ήταν ο Αλέξανδρος, αλλά ο διάκονός του ο Αθανάσιος, ο οποίος σαν διάκονος δεν μπορούσε, παρουσία τόσων επισκόπων, να λάβει το λόγο και να μιλήσει δημόσια. Συνεπώς, αυτό που μπορούσε να κάνει ήταν να «σφυρίζει» τις απαντήσεις στο αυτί του επισκόπου του. Ο Αιρεσιάρχης Άρειος είχε βρει πια το δάκαλό του. Ο νεαρός διάκονος Αθανάσιος 18 11 που μετέπειτα διαδέχθηκε τον Αλέξανδρο και έγινε ο ίδιος Πατριάρχης Αλεξανδρείας, αναδείχθηκε στο φωτισμένο θεολογικό νου της Πρώτης Οικουμενικής Συνόδου. Γι αυτό άλλωστε και η Εκκλησία του προσέδωσε το όνομα Μέγας. Τελικά, Η Σύνοδος της Νικαίας καταδίακσε τις αιρετικές διδασκαλίες του Αρείου και αποκρυστάλλωσε την Ορθόδοξη Διδασκαλία στα πρώτα οκτώ άρθρα του Συμβόλου της Πίστεως: «Πιστεύω εἰς θεòν πατέρα παντοκράτορα, ποιητὴν οὐρανοῦ καὶ γῆς. Καὶ εἰς Ἰησοῦν Χριστòν, υἱὸν αὐτοῦ τòν μονογενῆ, τòν κύριον ἡμῶν, τòν συλληφθέντα ἐκ πνεύματος ἁγίου, γεννηθέντα ἐκ Μαρίας τῆς παρθένου, παθόντα ὑπὸ Ποντίου Πιλάτου, σταυρωθέντα, θανόντα, καὶ ταφέντα, κατελθόντα εἰς τὰ κατώτατα, τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ ἀναστάντα ἀπò τῶν νεκρῶν, ἀνελθόντα εἰς τοὺς οὐρανούς, καθεζόμενον ἐν δεξιᾷ θεοῦ πατρὸς παντοδυνάμου, ἐκεῖθεν ἐρχόμενον κρῖναι ζῶντας καὶ νεκρούς. Πιστεύω εἰς τò Πνεῦμα τò ἅγιον, ἁγίαν καθολικὴν ἐκκλησίαν, ἁγίων κοινωνίαν, ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν, σαρκὸς ἀνάστασιν, ζωὴν αἰώνιον. Αμήν». (Το Σύμβολο της Πίστεως συμπληρώθηκε και έλαβε την οριστική του μορφή κατά τη Β Οικουμενική Σύνοδο το 381 στην Κωνσταντινούπολη. Γι αυτό και ο ονομάζεται Σύμβολο Νικαίας- Κωνσταντινουπόλεως). Το τέλος του Αρείου ήταν εξίσου άδοξο και βδελυρό με τις διδασκαλίες του. Λίγα χρόνια μετά τη Σύνοδο, ένα πρωί τον βρήκαν κάποιοι από τους οπαδούς του στο σπίτι του νεκρό. Χρησιμοποιώντας τη λαΐκή ρήση, θα λέγαμε για το θάνατό του, απλά πως «δεν πήγε από πέσιμο». Η Πρώτη Οικουμενική Σύνοδος στη Νίκαια ολοκλήρωσε τις εργασίες της στις 25 Αυγούστου του ιδίου έτους (325). Ο Αυτοκράτορας Κωνσταντίνος πρώτος διάβασε το Σύβολο της Πίστεως δημόσια, κατά τη διάρκεια της Θείας Λειτουργίας. Στη Σύνοδο αυτή η Εκκλησία απέκτησε την ονομασία «Ορθόδοξος» (Ορθή δόξα-ορθή πίστη), ξεκαθαρίζοντας έτσι την Ορθή πίστη από την αίρεση. Επίσης, η Σύνοδος της Νίκαιας υπήρξε η Πρώτη Οικουμενική Σύνοδος που κατέδειξε ότι ο Θείος Λόγος είναι αλάθητος. Πλέον είχε εδραιωθεί η βεβαιότητα ότι κανένας δεν μπορεί να ισχυριστεί ότι κατέχει εκ του αξιώματός του (ex officio) το αλάθητο. Το αλάθητο του Θείου Λόγου εξασφαλίζεται μόνο όταν η Εκκλησία ενεργεί στο σύνολό της ως Σώμα Χριστού. όπως οι Απόστολοι συναθροίστηκαν στην Ιερουσαλήμ και αποφάσισαν από κοινού ως ίσοι μεταξύ τους, το ίδιο έπραξαν και οι εν Νικαία Άγιοι Πατέρες. Με άλλα λόγια, οι πατέρες της Πρώτης Οικουμενικής Συνόδου διεκήρυξαν με το λόγο, αλλά και με το παράδειγμά τους την πιστη και αφοσίωσή τους στη Μία, Αγία, Καθολική και Αποστολική Εκκλησία.
PARISH REGISTRY BIRTHS ADULT CHRISMATIONS Andrew Smith Sponsor: Rhonda Yearout Tayen (Ezekial) Hazqiyal Sponsor: Marina Kulumberis BAPTISMS Parents: Andrew & Jennifer Smith Baby: Conner Thomas Godparents: Harry & Cami Plagianis Parents: Alexros & Jennifer Panos Baby: Costas Godparent: Edie Koumparakis Parents: Leonardo & Antoinette Moura Baby: Sophia Godparents: Anthony & Lottie Stefanis Parents: Mark & Erin Biehler Baby: Andrew Godparent: Ned Biehler Parents: Jeffrey Nicole Turner Baby: Laila Gabrielle Godparent: Stella Hondros Parents: Jeffrey Nicole Turner Baby: Katelyn Isabelle Godparent: Stella Hondros Parents: Jeffrey Nicole Turner Baby: Isaiah William Godparent: Elias Lampropoulos Victor J. Poulos James Slay Helen Katakalos Costa Leonidas Campbell Pitsa (Kalliopy) Soteres Charlotte Demetriades Gus Polizos (Far of Victor Polizos, in Montgomery, AL) CONGRATULATIONS Michael F. Lambros, son of Susan Michael Lambros, has been awarded a college scholarship from 7 th District of Pan-Cretan Association of America. The scholarship announced publicly on May 3 rd at District s Conference held in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. This award is based on academic extra-activity achievement. Michael will be attending University of Georgia as a sophomore this fall. Atlanta s Samaria Chapter of PAA is proud of this achievement joins rest of Atlanta Annunciation Cadral parish in congratulating Michael his parents. Ways to stay in touch with us Facebook Twitter YouTube Tout Instagram Like, Follow, Subscribe, Watch See www.facebook.com/atlgoc GOOFS Breakfast Every or THURSDAY at 9:00 a.m. in Kafenion. Open to everyone!!! Come join us for a full breakfast great fellowship! Full breakfast includes fruit, waffles, bacon, sausage much more! Donation $5 per person. Contact Cadral office at 404-633-5870 for date of next garing KAFENION Everyone is invited to come enjoy good conversation, Tavli, Prefa, Xeri & Kolitsina, coffee & refreshments Greek television every Tuesday morning from 9:00 a.m. in Kafenion located in Community Center. IN MEMORY OF Stephanie Dodys Frew on 5 th anniversary of her repose. May her memory be eternal in our hearts forever. ~Her cousin, Eleni Dodys. Annunciation Day School The 2013-14 school year an amazing year of growth for ADS! We can t thank members of our community enough for reaching out supporting this wonderful ministry! Looking ahead, our enrollment numbers for 2014-15 school year are higher than ever! The preschool has several classes that have already reached full capacity! Our kindergarten first grade students have actually outgrown ir classrooms we are shuffling to find room to fit all of students ir desks. This is a great problem to have! We are finding that many of our new students enrolling are attracted to our school because of our excellent national academic sting, (Top 97% in nation) our low student teacher ratios, Greek language religion programs, STEM focused curriculum, strong staff credentials, our unique integration presentation of curriculum. Our focus is to make sure students love coming to school that ir individual learning style is recognized ir needs met. We will continue to enroll students fill our classrooms with intention of completing our grade levels through 8 th grade by August of 2017! With continued support, re is no doubt that we will meet this goal! Success always stems from foundation of people working toger to obtain a goal. We are blessed to have that strong foundation! We had a wonderful year We wish our Cadral family, students ir families a safe happy summer! The ADS Staff 12 17
SUNDAY SCHOOL GOYA CONGRATULATIONS TO THE Graduation This year s senior class had 15 graduates. Several people were unable to attend graduation due to school commitments, however 9 graduates were present. John Caras gave a speech on behalf of 2014 Senior Class. 2014-2015 GOYA BOARD PRESIDENT: YEORYIA VASTAKIS VICE PRESIDENT: MICHAEL ALEXANDER CORRESPONDING SECRETARY: CALLIE MCBRIDE RECORDING SECRETARY: CHRISTINA MAXOURIS TREASURER: STEPHEN MISSAILIDIS Congratulations to all of our seniors! We wish you well in coming year, we look forward to you coming back to visit. Nicholas Alexer Justin Anthony John Caras Stacey Cook Johnny Demos Ana Ioachimescu Elena Jordanov Iman Khoury Kati Koutrelakos Georgea Lambros Alexra Nasoulis Ariadne Nichol Nicholas Radivoj Elana Spell Sarah Stewart Georgia State University Kennesaw State University University of Georgia University of South Carolina University of South Carolina Emory University Oxford College at Emory University Savannah College of Art Design University of Georgia Georgia State University Georgia State University Stanford University University of Alabama University of Tennessee Shorter University HISTORIAN: ALEXIS SPELL END OF YEAR POOL PARTY & OUTING TO SIX FLAGS A slideshow of all of our Sunday School students shown during coffee hour. The slideshow included highlights of each of our seniors. May 18th last day of Sunday School until August. Registration forms for 2014-2015 school year are available in Church Office or on Cadral website. Philoptochos Scholarships The Philoptochos awards two annual scholarships. This years Philoptochos Scholarship awarded to John Caras Anna Mae Livaditis awarded to Sarah Stewart. (not pictured) Girl Scout & Boy Scout Religious Medals Girl Scouts Boy Scouts received ir religious medals, which y earned by attending classes with Fr. Christos completing service projects. 16 13
SUNDAY SCHOOL Great Lent a very busy time for our Sunday School students teachers. There were many opportunities for our children to participate in every aspect of beautiful services that were held. Processions: Sunday of Orthodoxy & Sunday of Holy Cross Sunday School students in 6 th -12 th Grades carried icons in Sunday of Orthodoxy Procession. Sunday School students in PreKC-5 th Grades carried daffodils crosses decorated in ir classrooms to use during Procession of Holy Cross. Heretismi Services & The Akathistos Hymn During Great Lent, Sunday School classes were assigned specific Fridays to participate in Heretismi Services Akathistos Hymn by presenting flowers to Theotokos. Students in 5 th -12 th Grades also participated as Psalms readers chanters each Friday evening. Lazarus Saturday All Sunday School families attended Divine Liturgy upheld a tradition we have had in our Cadral for over 60 years, Annual Group Communion Making of Palm Crosses. Following Divine Liturgy, a wonderful breakfast shared palm crosses were made. Palm Sunday On Palm Sunday, 8 th grade Sunday School students served as palm bearers participated in Palm Sunday Procession. SUNDAY SCHOOL Each night of Holy Week, beginning on Palm Sunday, 5 th -12 th Grade students read Six Psalms. On Great Friday, 4 th Grade girls served as Myrrophores during afternoon evening services. The 12 th Grade boys, who usually serve as Kouvouklion carriers during evening service, held Kouvouklion in Narx so parishioners could walk underneath it as y left Church that evening. The GOYAns placed luminaries offered in memory of loved ones in front hallway. Perfect Attendance Recognition On Sunday, May 18 th, following students were recognized for having perfect attendance for 2013-2014 year. Nikolaos Odenwelder- 1 st year, Anastasia Lamas- 2 nd year, Juliana Lamas- 2 nd year, Angela Pappadakis- 2 nd year, Sophia Pappadakis- 2 nd year, Elizabeth Keenan- 4 th year, Nicolas Keenan- 4 th year, Katy Rhena Constantinides- 4 th year, Phaethon Constantinides- 5 th year, Nikolaos Constantinides- 5 th year. Robby Keenan also recognized for having only one absence for year. 14 15