from glory to glory - assumption greek orthodox church · 2016-02-19 · from glory to glory the...
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From Glory to Glory The monthly newsletter of the
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Fr. Joseph Strzelecki
Fr. Anastasios Theodoropoulos
March 2016
1755 Des Peres Road
Town & Country, MO 63131-1405
Phone: 314-966-2255
Kitchen: 314-966-6720 Web Site: www.assumptiongoc.org
Office: Diakonissa Kristen Vogt
Email: [email protected]
Bookkeeper: Diane Sieckmann
Email: [email protected]
Fr. Anastasios Theodoropoulos
Email: [email protected]
Important Upcoming
Dates
March 5 First Saturday of Souls
St Theodore the Recruit
March 6 Meatfare Sunday
March 9 Holy Forty Martyrs of Sevastia
March 13 Forgiveness Sunday
March 14 Clean Monday - Lent Begins
March 19 3rd Saturday of the Souls
The Miracle of Saint Theodore
March 20 Sunday of Orthodoxy
March 25 Annunciation
March 27 St. Gregory Palamas
Questioning our Faith.
Have you ever questioned your faith?
Many of us might be quick to answer this question “Of course not! I have
always been a pious Christian!” Others might hesitate, think back to a difficult
time in their life, and force out a quiet lie “Nope, I’ve never questioned my
faith.” Very few will answer “Of course, who doesn’t?
There is something about this question that tends to put us on the
defensive. There is something about it that makes us feel that there is most
definitely a correct answer, and that answer is a resounding “NEVER!” It is as
if somehow our Church demands that we are completely steadfast at all times in
our faith, that to waver is to be somehow unchristian. This however could not
be further from the truth. To question and to be unsure are human by nature,
only God is unwavering. This myth, that we must be unquestioning of our faith
is not only untrue, but it is harmful. We all have questions, we all have
concerns, and if we think that there is something wrong with us when we
question, we’re going to find ourselves having a true crises of faith. So if it’s
normal to question, why is it that we feel so strongly that it’s wrong to
question?
We are taking cues from shallow Christianity.
My intent here is not to attack other Churches, but to address a reality that
many churches do not have the rich intellectual heritage of the Orthodox
Church. Many Christian Churches in this country are built on the principle that
if we “just believe” we will be saved. If “just believe” and “be saved” is the
foundation of your theology, of course questioning your faith, questioning your
pastor, questioning the bible, are out of the question. In such a church, igno-
rance is bliss. However, this mantra “just believe” is oxymoronic! If it were so
easy to “just believe” and be saved, there would be no need for a church, no
need for a community of believers, no need to teach the faith. There would be
no need for scripture, after all, all you have to do is believe that God will save
you, and he will! The Orthodox faith is the exact opposite. The truly great and
inspiring people of the Church, the Saints, are the very people who questioned.
They’re the people who stood up and made public their questions and their
doubts, and by doing so they enriched their faith, and that of those around them.
Shallow Christianity is shallow because people are afraid to dig deep, digging
into their faith may cause them to lose it. As Orthodox, when we ask questions
about our faith and begin to dig, we find a wealth of knowledge of holy people
who came before us, asking the same questions, and providing brilliant respons-
es. However, if we are afraid to ask, if we are afraid to dig, we will never look
into our past and see what has been laid before us.
Orthodoxy is infallible and we have to be infallible.
The second reason that many fear to express doubts or questions is because
the Orthodox Church claims to be the True Church, and to know The truth [Continued on Page 2]
2
2016 Parish Council
Fr. Joseph Strzelecki
Fr. Anastasios Theodoropoulos
Scott Thompson, President
Greg Simos, Vice President
Elefteria Marcou, Secretary
Gus Harris, Treasurer
Dean Bellos Pam Martin
Despina M. Bellos Farid Sadaka
Daniel Gantner Dr. Tom Stamos
Dr. James Hoeke Tonis Zafiropoulos
Greg Kanteres Jim Zoumbas
Carol Marshall
Adult Orthodox Christians (18 years & older):
Diane Sieckmann
Acolytes:
Alban Mosher, John Nicholas
Bible Study:
Fr. Daniel Morton
Bookstore:
Dr .Joseph Steinger, Diakonissa Kristen Vogt
Cantors:
Steve Bellos
Choir:
Angie Antonopoulos, Stephanie Saunders
Church Tours
Janice Hazeltine
Festival:
Greg Simos, Art Liyeos
Friday Luncheon:
Art Liyeos
Greek School
Rena Pelican
GOYA(9th -12th Grade):
Flora Dimitirou, Diane Sieckmann
Greek Dancers
Kyklos: Dean Bellos
Armonia: Stella Afentoullis
Ta Paidakia: Aliki Malek
Greeters:
Eleni Muprhy, Mary Pitliangas
JOY (4 years - 4th Grade)
Dr. Deborah Cosmopoulos
Jr. GOYA (5th - 8th Grades)
Alki Lappas Case
Kafenio
Art Liyeos
Orthodox Faith & Life:
Dr. Farid Sadaka
Philoptochos:
Elefteria Marcou, President
Premarital Classes
Susan Cassimatis
Prison Ministries:
Bill Goranitis
Stewardship:
Michael Afentoullis
Sunday School:
Diane Sieckmann
Vacation Church School (VCS)
Anna Sadaka
Women’s Bookstudy:
Presvytera Laura Morton
Young Adult Ministry (18-30 yrs):
Fr. Anastasios & Presvytera Elizabeth
Young Married Couples:
Fr. Anastaisos & Presvytera Elizabeth
[Continued from Page 1]
that as members, we are somehow responsible for also knowing The Truth in
the same way. This however is impossible. To know the fullness of the Truth
in the same way that the Church can claim to know the Truth is a denial of our
humanity. We know God to be infinite, and therefore, knowledge of God is
likewise infinite. A human being can never know God fully, and therefore can
never have perfect, unquestioning faith. As Agent Moulder from The X Files
would say “The Truth is out there,” but we as humans will never know the full
truth. This reminds us even more of our need for the Church. By Grace, God
guides Her to the truth and to more perfect knowledge of him in a way that
each of us individually could never aspire to. Questioning, probing her depths
of knowledge is the only way for us to begin to understand an incomprehensi-
ble God.
We are scared to face the fact that we are imperfect.
Both the above responses center around the institution of the Church, but
ultimately “Have you ever questioned your faith” is a personal question. When
we answer “never,” or are tempted to answer in this way, it is usually because
we are insecure in our faith. Questioning our faith is not a sign that we need to
bury our head in the sand and drown out the questions, it is a sign that we need
to open up and explore the two thousand years of questions that the Orthodox
Church has been asking about who Jesus Christ is, how God can be one and
three at the same time, and why He even cares about us. If we are afraid to
question, we give into a self-fulfilling prophecy, because our faith will falter
because of our fear to nourish it by holding it up to the microscope. But most
importantly questioning our faith is the direct result of the chief of the virtues,
humility. Humility is always the prerequisite to asking serious questions. It
assumes from the beginning that yes, there is something wrong with me: Yes, I
am a flawed person: yes, I could know more about my faith. It is pride that
causes us to say no, there is nothing wrong with me: no, I’m perfect the way I
am, no: I know everything there is to know about my faith and have no ques-
tions. Without humility there is no way to advance, both spiritually and in our
day to day lives.
Questioning our faith is not only normal and natural, but it is required for
growth in our spiritual lives. Asking questions and being inquisitive about our
faith does not peg someone as a sceptic or trouble maker, but shows maturity
and desire for growth in the church. It’s when we’re afraid to question that we
have problems. It’s questions that linger, questions that go unanswered that
cause us harm.
As everyone in the parish should be aware by now, I am devoting my
homilies for the rest of this school year to answering questions that any of the
faithful have about the Church, about God, or anything! While I am in the pro-
cess of answering many questions, I hope that everyone takes this opportunity
to ask and have their questions answered!
Faithfully, Fr. Anastasios
The goal is to rise spiritually,
not simply to avoid sin.
St. Paisos of the Holy Mountain
3
Great Lent Great Lent holds a central and important position in
the spiritual life of the Orthodox Church, and should hold
that position in the life of every Orthodox Christian. Plan
now to attend as many of the Lenten and Holy Week
services as you can..Great Compline is chanted on various
evenings. Presanctified Liturgies are celebrated on
Wednesday evenings and Friday mornings. Salutations to
the Theotokos are chanted on Friday evenings. Please see
the monthly calendar for the scheduled times of these
services. In addition:
Keep a good and strict Lenten Fast.
Make a good and sincere Confession.
Set aside casual (and especially harmful) pastimes,
replacing them with prayer and spiritual reading.
Make a special effort to overcome chronic sins in your
own life, and to forgive others.
Increase your donations of time and talent to the
parish and to worthy charities.spiritual edification.
2016 Schedule of Services for the
Sunday Evenings of Great Lenten Fast and
Spiritual “Journey to Pascha”
1st Sunday – The Triumph of Orthodoxy
20 March – 5:00 P.M.
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
4967 Forest Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108
Host Rector: Fr. Doug Papulis
Guest Homilist: Fr. Sergei_Alekseev
2nd Sunday – St. Gregory Palamas
27 March – 5:00 P.M.
St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church (OCA)
1901 Ann Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104
Host Rector: Fr. Christopher Phillips
Guest Homilist: Fr. Steven Salaris
3rd Sunday – Veneration of the the Holy Cross
3 April – 5:00 P.M.
St. Thomas the Apostle Romanian Orthodox Church
6501 Nottingham Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63109
Host Rector: Very Reverend Archimandrite Theophan
Guest Homilist: Fr. Joseph Strzelecki
4th Wednesday – Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
6 April – 6:30 P.M.
Ss. Cyril & Methody Bulgarian Orthodox Church
4770 Maryville Road, Granite City, IL 62040
Host Rector: Very Rev. Andrew Moulton
Guest Homilist: Fr. Anastasios Theodoropoulos
4th Sunday – St. John of the Ladder
10 April – 5:00 P.M.
Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church
405 Huntwood Road, Swansea, IL 62226
Host Rector: Fr. Achilles Karathanos
Guest Homilist: Fr. Michael Lillie
5th Sunday - St. Mary of Egypt
17 April – 5:00 P.M.
Protection of the Holy Virgin Mary Orthodox Church
(OCA)
112 North Fairdale Avenue, Royalton, IL 62983
Host Rector: Very Reverend Father Frederick Janeček
Guest Homilist: Fr. Achilles Karathonos
All services are sponsored by the Orthodox Christian
Clergy Brotherhood of the Greater St. Louis Area.
Services are followed by a light Lenten Meal and
Fellowship
Fasting Great Lent is a period of strict abstinence. The tradi-
tional fast is as follows:
Monday - Friday: Abstinence from meat, dairy, eggs,
fish, wine and oil (shell fish is allowed).
Every Saturday and Sunday, and March 25, and Holy
Thursday: wine and oil are allowed.
March 25 and Palm Sunday: Fish is allowed.
Wine and oil are not allowed on Holy Saturday.
In addition to this, the number of meals a day and the
amount of food received is often times altered. But the
above fast is probably too difficult for many people, espe-
cially beginners. Please consult your spiritual father for
direction on fasting. Special consideration is always given
to young children and people who are ill.
Do not be irritated either with those who sin or those
who offend; do not have a passion for noticing every
sin in your neighbor, and for judging him, as we are in
the habit of doing. Everyone shall give an answer to
God for himself. Everyone has a conscience; everyone
hears God's Word, and knows God's Will either from
books or from conversation with other people. Espe-
cially do not look with evil intention upon the sins of
your elders, which do not regard you; "to his own
master he standeth or falleth." Correct your own sins,
amend your own life.
+St. John of Kronstadt
4
Congratulations Niko Stamos and Eleni Tambassis Eugenia Kardaris DDS
We were honored to celebrate and participate in the "The Three Hierarchs Award of Excellence” at
the Holy Trinity Cathedral Center in New York City. His eminence Archbishop Demetrios of
America ,Rev. Fr. Stefanos Alexopoulos,Ph.D., Mrs Maria Makedon ,director of Archdiocesan
District office of Education and Mrs. Anne Prokop ,principal, Greek-American Institute, Bronx along
with other officials from Greece and Cyprus.
This Regents exam in Greek language was taken by over 500 students from parochial and public chools in the East
coast and our Greek school , the only one from the Midwest! I am proud to say that even though our classes do not have
the great number of students or the days devoted to Greek language per week ,both of my students not only passed the ex-
am but received an Excellent score! These students are Eleni Tambassis and Niko Stamos !!Their loyalty ,persistence and
endurance for Greek language has been awarded .
Both of their parents, siblings and our principal Ms .Rena Pelican were there to celebrate and share this monumental
moment of their lives. Awards were given by his Eminence Demetrios ! Please ,enjoy the photos anWe look forward to
continuing the preservation and dissemination of the Greek language throughout U.S.A. by us and our youth like Niko and
Eleni !!
Happy 50th Anniversary On February 13, Jim and Elaine
Scott celebrated 50 years of marriage.
They were married at the Assumption
Greek Orthodox Church on Delmar in
University City. Congratulations and
may God grant you many more!!!
Everyone
capable of
thanksgiving is
capable of
forgiveness,
salvation and
then eternal joy
5
Save the Date!
Orthodox Camps
Location: St. Iakovos
Retreat Center
(Kansasville, WI)
Dates:
June 19—25
June 26—July 2
July 10—16
July 17—23
(Transportation will be
provided from St. Louis
only the week of
June 19-25)
Ages: Entering
6th-11th Grade
Cost: $475
Apply at: www.fanari.org
Application Deadline: TBD
Location: Ionian Village
Campgrounds
(Bartholomeo, Greece)
Dates: June 19 – July 8
July 17—August 5
Ages: Entering 9th
Grade, to Graduating
Seniors
Cost: 4500 + Travel to
New York
(Scholarships are
available)
Apply at:
www.ionianvillage.org/
summer-camp
Application Opens
March 1st at 12:00 noon
and usually fills within
1 Hour!
Assumption
Vacation Church
School
“The Armour
of God”
Dates: July 11-15
(AM only)
Ages: Pre K—8th
Grade
Cost: $15 until June
30th ($20 after)
Application form
coming soon!
Location:
Sts Constantine &
Helen Greek Orthodox
Church (Palos Hills, IL)
(bus transportation
provided)
Dates: Memorial Day-
weekend (May 27-30)
Ages: 8-18 Years Old
Cost: $170 for the first
Child $150 for
additional (Last years
pricing)
Application packet
coming soon!
2016 Hellenic
Culture Camp
Monday July 18 -
Friday, July 22.
Questions?
Concerns? [email protected]
35th Annual Junior Olympics
6
Ποιά εἶναι ἡ ἀληθινὴ Ἐξομολόγηση;
Μητροπολίτη Anthony Bloom
Συχνὰ ἁμαρτάνουμε σοβαρὰ ἐνώπιον τοῦ
Θεοῦ. Ὑπάρχουν κάποιες στιγμὲς τῆς ζωῆς
ποὺ μᾶς χωρίζουν ἀπὸ Ἐκεῖνον μὲ ἕναν
ἰδιαίτερα βίαιο τρόπο, στιγμὲς μεγάλης
ἀπιστίας. Επίσης ὑπάρχουν φορὲς ποὺ
προσερχόμαστε στὴν ἐξομολόγηση γιατί
θέλουμε νὰ ἀνανεώσουμε τὴν ἐγγύτητα τῆς
σχέσης ποὺ ἔχει τραυματιστεῖ. Ἂς ἔχουμε
κατὰ νοῦ ὅτι γιὰ νὰ ἐπανασυνδέσουμε τὴ
φιλία μας χρειάζεται ν’ ἀνοίξουμε μὲ
εἰλικρίνεια τὴν καρδιά μας καὶ νὰ
φανερώσουμε τὶς ἀστοχίες καὶ τὰ λάθη ποὺ
ἔχουν πληγώσει αὐτὴ τὴ σχέση. Δὲν
χρειάζεται νὰ καταφεύγουμε σὲ λίστες
ἁμαρτιῶν, οὔτε νὰ ἐρευνοῦμε τὰ βιβλία γιὰ ν’
ἀνακαλύψουμε τὴν ἁμαρτία μας. Ἀλλὰ μόνο
νὰ σκύψουμε μέσα μας καὶ νὰ ἐξετάσουμε τὴ
συνείδησή μας.
Ἂς χρησιμοποιήσουμε ἁπλοὺς τρόπους γι’
αὐτοῦ τοῦ εἴδους τὴν αὐτογνωσία. Τί ἦταν
αὐτὸ ποὺ προτιμήσαμε στὴ θέση τοῦ Χριστοῦ;
Τί εἶναι αὐτὸ ποῦ μᾶς κράτησε σὲ ἀδράνεια,
ὥστε νὰ παραμείνουμε χωρὶς καρπό; Ἂς
προσπαθήσουμε μέσα ἀπὸ τὶς γραμμὲς τοῦ
Εὐαγγελίου νὰ ἐπισημάνουμε ὄχι ἐκεῖνα ποὺ
μᾶς κρίνουν, ἀλλὰ τὰ λόγια ποὺ μιλοῦν στὴν
καρδιά μας, ὅπως ἔγινε μὲ τοὺς μαθητές:
“οὐχὶ ἡ καρδία ἡμῶν καιομένη ἦν ἐν ἡμῖν, ὡς
ἐλάλει ἡμῖν ἐν τῇ ὁδῷ καὶ ὡς διήνοιγεν ἡμῖν
τὰς γραφάς;”
Ἂς ἀνακαλύψουμε κι ἐμεῖς τὸν λόγο ποὺ μᾶς
θερμαίνει τὴν καρδιά, ποὺ ἀγγίζει τὰ βάθη τῆς
ὕπαρξης καὶ μᾶς φέρνει σὲ κοινωνία μὲ τὸν
Κύριο. Αὐτὸ εἶναι τὸ κριτήριο. Στὴν
πραγματικότητα δὲν ἔχει τόση σημασία ἂν
ἀθετήσαμε κάποιους κανόνες. Αὐτὸ ποὺ μᾶς
ζημιώνει εἶναι ὅτι ἀπομακρυνόμαστε ἀπὸ τὴν
εὐλογημένη κοινωνία τῆς χάριτός Του.
Ἂς ἐρευνήσουμε λοιπὸν ἀπὸ τὴν ἀρχή, ὄχι μὲ
τὴ στείρα λογική τῆς ἐνοχῆς, ἀλλὰ μὲ ἀπώτερο
σκοπὸ νὰ σταθμίσουμε πὼς χάσαμε τὴν
ἐμπιστοσύνη καὶ τὴν ἀγάπη ποὺ πρὸς στιγμὴν
γευθήκαμε. Ἂς θυμηθοῦμε ἐκεῖνα τὰ λόγια ποὺ
πύρωσαν τὴν καρδιά μας κι ἔδωσαν
καθαρότητα στὸ λογισμό μας, ποὺ κίνησαν τὴ
θέλησή μας στὸ ἀγαθὸ καὶ ἔφεραν γαλήνη στὰ
μέλη μας καὶ τὰ μεταμόρφωσαν ἀπὸ σάρκινα σὲ
σῶμα ἱερό: ἱερὸ γιατί μέσα ἀπὸ τὸ βάπτισμα
ἑνωθήκαμε μὲ τὸν σαρκωμένο Χριστό, μέσα
ἀπὸ τὸ Χρίσμα γίναμε δοχεῖο τοῦ Πνεύματος
καὶ μὲ τὰ ἄχραντα μυστήρια γινόμαστε Σῶμα
Χριστοῦ. Αὐτὴ τὴν ἐμπειρία ἂς μεταφέρουμε
στὴν ἐξομολόγηση, μετανοώντας ὄχι γιὰ κάτι
ἀφηρημένο ποὺ βρίσκεται σὲ κάποια λίστα
ἁμαρτιῶν, ἀλλὰ γιὰ κεῖνες τὶς ἐπιλογὲς ποὺ
διέρρηξαν τὴ φιλία καὶ κοινωνία μας μὲ τὸν
Σωτήρα Χριστό.
Ζοῦμε συχνὰ μέσα στὸ ψέμα. Κατασκευάζουμε
γύρω μας ἕναν κόσμο ὅπου μόνο ὁ θάνατος
μπορεῖ νὰ θριαμβεύσει. Ἀρνούμαστε τὸν
πλησίον μας καὶ κλείνουμε μόνοι μας τὸ δρόμο
ποὺ ὁδηγεῖ στὴ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ. Ζητοῦμε
ἀπὸ τὸν Κύριο συγχώρεση ἁμαρτιῶν, ἀλλὰ δὲν
ἔχει νόημα νὰ ἀναζητοῦμε μία τυπικὴ ἄφεση.
Πρέπει νὰ διψοῦμε γιὰ ἀληθινὴ συμφιλίωση,
στὸ πλαίσιο τῆς ὁποίας θὰ ἀναθέσουμε στὸν
Θεὸ τὴν ἀναξιότητα καὶ τὴν ἀπιστία μας – ὄχι
μόνο πρὸς Ἐκεῖνον ἀλλὰ καὶ πρὸς τὸν πλησίον,
τὸν φίλο, τὸν γνωστὸ καὶ συγγενῆ μας.
Ἂς ἐμπιστευόμαστε καθημερινὰ τὸν λογισμό
μας στὸν Θεὸ μὲ εἰλικρίνεια. Κι ὅταν
προσερχόμαστε στὴν Ἐξομολόγηση ἡ εὐχὴ τῆς
συγχωρήσεως θὰ ἔχει ἀληθινό, πραγματικὸ
νόημα: τὴν ἐπανασυγκρότηση μιᾶς φιλίας ποὺ
ὅσον ἀφορᾶ τὸν Θεὸ παραμένει ἀναλλοίωτη
ἀλλὰ ὡς πρὸς τὸ δικό μας μέρος χρειάζεται νὰ
τὴν ἐπιδιώξουμε. Κι αὐτή μας ἡ πρόθεση
πρέπει νὰ στηρίζεται ἀπὸ ἀποφασιστικότητα.
Κι ἡ ἀποφασιστικότητα ἀπὸ πράξη καὶ
καινότητα ζωῆς.
Για την αντιγραφή: Δημήτρης Κάγκαρης
7
Icon of St. Gregory of Palamas Icon 8 x 11
$65.00
Purple Altar Table Covering for Great Lent
$850.00
Purple Gospel Covering For Great Lent
$150.00
Purple Cover for Lectern
Holy Water Blessing Cross
Mother’s Day Reception
Anonymous
Fathers Day Reception
Please call the Church Office at 314-966-2255 if you
would like to donate any of these items.
Additional Icons are needed to complete the final
phase of the Church iconography. The choir loft balcony
wall will have
2 Angels $4,000.00 each
1) Maggie Zografakis, in memory of her parents
2) Eleftherios and Aleka Karagiannis in memory of her
mother Vasiliki Kolivaki
12 Busts $3,500.00 each
1. St. Alexander Nevsky, in Memory of Danny Taylor
by John Surgant
2. St. David of Trebizond, in memory of Adamantia and
James Menas, by John Surgant
3. TBD by John Surgant
4. TBD by John Surgant
5. Donor needed
6. Donor needed
7. Donor needed
8. Donor needed
9. Donor needed
10. Donor needed
11. Donor needed
12. Donor needed
Please coordinate your request with Fr. Joseph and
314-966-2255. Following is a list of suggested Saints.
St. Agne
St. Anthimos of Chios
St. Argyrios
St. Athanasios of Parios
St. Barlaam
St. Dimas, the Good Thief
St. Ephraim the Syrian
St. Ioasaph
St. Isaac the Syrian
St. John the Faster
St. Justin Popovich
St. Justinian the Great
St. Longinos, the Centurion
St. Makarios of Corinth
St. Mark of Ephesus
St. Methodia of Kimolos
St. Mercurios
St. Moses the Ethiopian
St. Nicodemos of Mt. Athos
St. Nifon of Constantia
St. Nikephoros of Chios
St. Photios the Great
St. Porphyrios of Kapsokalivia
St. Prokla, the Wife of Pontus Pilate
St. Ruth
St. Savvas the New
St. Telemachos
St. Theodore the Studite
There are also still several ceiling icons available for
donation:
South Wall Ceiling Icons $9,000
1. The Meeting of Our Lord
2. The Transfiguration of Christ
3. The Entrance into Jerusalem
4. The Resurrection of Lazarus - The Beck Family
5. The Dialogue with the Samaritan Woman - The Rodes
Family in memory of Nikolas, Lillian, Louis,
Doula and George.
North Wall Ceiling Icons $9,000
1. The Prayer of Christ
2. The Betrayal
3. Christ’s Judgment by Pilate
4. The walk Towards Golgotha
5. He Is Not Here- He Is Risen
6. Touching the Wound.
New Iconography
Other Needs
Completion of Church Iconography
8
Donations for Great Lent and Holy Week-2016
Flowers
Daffodils (Sunday of Holy Cross), March 15
Maria Sakellariou
Flowers for the Icon of the Annunciation, March 25
In memory of Evangelos & Kleanthie Theodorou
Palms & Daphne (Palm Sunday)
Sid & Victoria Ambort
Flowers for the Mystical Supper Icon, Holy Thursday
Chris & Despina Zeris
Rose petals for the Epitaphios
Jim & Elaine Scott
Candles
Priest’s Resurrection Pure Beeswax Candles
Elaine & James Scott
7 Candles for Holy Wednesday Holy Unction
Angie & John Koulouriotis
12 candles for 12 Twelve Holy Gospels of Holy
Thursday evening
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Kotakis
3 candles of the Cross (Stavromenos) Good Friday
Mike & Oksana Labis
4 Candles for the Epitaphios
David & Elaine Stevens in Memory of Matina Stevens
Palm Sunday Altar Vigil Candles
In Memory of Amy Simos by Greg Simos, and Chris &
Nicole Simos;
Easter Sunday Altar Vigil Candles
Mrs. Photini Vlachos
Other Items
Antho nero (rose water) for Holy Week
Mr. & Mrs. Ollie Aslan
White Sheet for the Body of Christ
Jim & Elaine Scott in Memory of George & Mary
Petrides
Eggs for Easter Sunday
Anonymous in Memory of Bill Leon
Toulle for Easter eggs Anonymous in Memory of Bill Leon
Holy Wednesday Holy Unction - Olive oil, flour, cotton
balls
Byron & Darlene Magafas
Incense for use during Holy Week
Donor Needed
Mageritsa (Paschal Soup)
Donor Needed
Palm Sunday Luncheon, April 24
Donor Needed
Five Friday evening Salutation (Xairetismi) services
1st Friday, March 18
Flowers Vangel & Lila Nicholas
Coffee hour Lila Nicholas
2nd Friday, March 25
Flowers Dimitrios & Bessie Theodorou
Coffee hour - GOYA
3rd Friday, April 1
Flowers Kosta & Chrisoula Panopoulos
Coffeehour Sunday School
4th Friday, April 8
Flowers Athanasios & Kalliope Deros
Coffee Choir
5th Friday, April 15
Flowers Maria & Peter Kafalenos
Coffee hour Philoptochos
Flowers for Icon of the Bridegroom,
Nymphios, of Palm Sunday evening
Mrs. Sofia Evangelopoulos
33 Gardenias for the Epitaphios
Sofia & Paraskevie Liyeos , Niko, Aristotelis and Evan
Vojcic in memory of their papou, Steve Evangelopoulos
Rose petals for the First Resurrection service
Mr. & Mrs. James Beys
Flowers for medium-sized Icon of the Resurrection
Bill and Freda Simos
Flowers for large-sized Icon of the Resurrection
Anonymous in Memory of Bill Leon
Rosebud vases for Palm Sunday
Angelo & Tina Pappas
Rosebud vases for Easter Sunday
In Memory of their grandson Mason Dale by Donna &
Victor Roesch
Flowered Wreath of the Crucified Lord
Br. Charles S. Anthony & Mrs. Irene Anthony In loving
memory of the Monk
Flowers for the Epitaphios ($1,000.00 needed)
Donors Needed
Easter Lilies or Chrysanthemums (24 needed)
Donors Needed
9
We are finally preparing for Lent! The date of Pascha changes every year, and this year it is on May 1st., so we
are only now beginning the special time leading up to Pascha, known as Great Lent.
10
Memorials
May their memories be eternal!
Jan 31 1-year Emilia Patelis
Feb 7 1-year Polixeni Exarhou
17-year Mary Labis
25-year Anastasia Kirkou
Feb 21 40-day Angelo Leara
Feb 28 1-year Danny Taylor
Mar 20 1-year Constantinos Vithoulkas
Mar 27 1-year Kaliope Liontos
4-year Michael Liontos
Apr 3 1-year Jordan Gabriel Sadaka
1-year Paraskeve (Voula) Stratos
11-year John Stratos
14-year George Kapros
Apr 17 1-year Helen Papavramides
4-year Stergios Papavramides
4-year Nicholas Georgen
Baptisms
* Congratulations to Andrew and Jill Tomaras on
the baptism of their daughter, Elaina on Saturday,
February 13. The Godmother is Joanna Farris.
In Our Prayers: Nora Bangert
Jim Beys
Tom Dubis
Seraphima Henderson
Agne Karagianis
Jean Kotakis
Michael Labis
John Surgant, Sr
Elizabeth Despina Tsaoussis
Chris & Despina Zeris
Evening in Athens Greek Dinners Saturday March 5, join Sts. Constantine and Helen
Greek Orthodox Church for their series of dinners
featuring tasty home baked Greek entrees, and pastries
served in the casual and friendly atmosphere of their
church hall. Lenten dishes are available. These dinners are
open to the public. For more information, please call 618-
277-0330
405 Huntwood Rd.,
Swansea, Il 62226.
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Important
Please inform Fr. Joseph immediately when you or
any member of your family is sick or hospitalized, so that
appropriate prayer and visitation may be scheduled.
Hospitals do not notify clergy of patients, even if
you list yourself as a Church member.
Missing from Church: Two green-covered books in
Arabic and English are missing from the Church. They
are out-of-print and Fr. Joseph needs them. Please call
the office if you can help.
Blessed Icons: Three icons were left in the Holy Altar
to be blessed, but don’t have names on them. Please call
the office if one of them belongs to you. They need to be
picked up. Thank you.
11
Remember you can read the entire Assumption Monthly
Newsletter online at assumptiongoc.org,
or go to: http://seekandfind.com/directory/assumption-
greek-orthodox-Church_820.html
College Addresses In an effort to keep in touch with, and minister to, our
college students, we ask anyone with a son or daughter in
college to contact the Church office with the address,
phone, and email.
Unique Mission Outreaches to Albania and
Mexico
Join an OCMC Orthodox Mission Team to Mexico or
Albania in March 2016. Be a visible expression of
solidarity with the faithful in these unique ministries.
Work with Albanian youth leaders to host a conference
for young adults and reach out to and engage college
students at the University of Tirana’s Orthodox Student
Center, while ministering alongside OCMC missionaries to
Albania. The dates are March 19 - 27, 2016.
In Mexico, offer youth and adult catechism to educate
and encourage the faithful in remote communities of San
Esteban and Pisaflores, outside of Mexico City. Spanish-
speaking applicants are encouraged to apply. The dates are
March 26 - April 2, 2016. Team members will teach
children basic catechism and craft activities in a Vacation
Bible School format, offer adult catechism and attend
worship services with the local communities. This is a
unique opportunity to present the Faith to Aztec people in
rural Mexico!
Mission Teams serve our Holy Orthodox Church’s
unending mission effort to make disciples by sharing in a
journey of Faith. If you are interested in serving in His
vineyard, contact OCMC for additional opportunities. Visit
www.ocmc.org, e-mail [email protected], or call 1-877-463
-6784 ext. 141 or ext 142.
AHEPA Scholarship
Any seniors interested in applying for the AHEPA
Scholarship, please contact Basil Pappas
[email protected]) for the Ahepa scholarship forms
and information regarding due dates. Mr. Pappas will
send the necessary forms directly to you.
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Prison Ministry Report Bill Goranitis Following is a list of the Assumption Prison Ministry
accomplishments for 2015. I want to thank everyone for all
of their efforts.
Filled a food pantry which is used to help ex-offenders and
their families. Monetary donations from our fund were used
to obtain Aldi gift cards which were used to purchase this
food.
Philoptochos made a significant monetary contribution to
our fund.
Monetary donation made by us to OCPM (Orthodox
Christian Prison Ministry).
Monetary donation made by us to the prison ministry of
Father David Ogan.
Additional food was obtained for the food pantry that is
used to help ex-offenders and their families. Again,
monetary donations from our fund were used to obtain Aldi
gift cards which were used to purchase this food.
Monetary donation made by us to provide a place to live for
a man leaving prison and who would be homeless without
aid. St. Nicholas also contributed.
Conducted an infant/toddler supplies drive.
Donated supplies and monetary donations collected during
our infant/toddler supplies drive to infants and toddlers of ex
-offenders.
Female hygiene kits made by members of our Prison
Ministry team were distributed to female ex-offenders.
Collected and donated Christmas gifts for the children of
ex-offenders.
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church received a certificate
of appreciation from the United States Probation Office,
Eastern District of Missouri for its prison ministry work.
12
Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Corner:
The Orthodox Mission Team of St. Louis works to nurture an awareness within our local churches of the need to
evangelize, catechize, and support missionary efforts and programs globally
Missions Sunday is March 13th. Striking a Balance: The Importance of Mission Teams to Alaska
By Alex Goodwin
Alaska, though as much a part of the United States as any other state, is
a land apart. It is unique in its history and culture. It is because of this
history and the Native Alaskan people that the ministries of the OCMC are
so important there.
In Alaska, Orthodoxy was the first expression of Christianity that was
presented to the native people. Thanks to the efforts of men like St.
Herman, many of the Alaskan people came to accept the Faith. The roots of
the Church run deep in Alaska, but today Alaska is a much different place
than it was in St. Herman’s day. The people of Alaska are trying to strike a
balance between preserving their traditional way of life while embracing what modernity has to offer.
This journey can be especially difficult for the youth. The allure of secular society is strong. The case for the
pursuit of convenience and materialism is pretty easy to make, especially in villages that can feel isolated by vast
distances and an unforgiving climate. The importance of a life grounded in the Faith can be a more difficult case
to make. The benefits may not be immediate, and the journey may not be easy.
This is why the Mission Center sends teams of volunteers to Alaska every year. They work with the youth.
They share with them the fullness of the Orthodox Faith that has been an integral part of their culture for
centuries. Through fellowship, fun activities, teaching, and worship, young Alaskans are able to experience a
living, vibrant Orthodoxy that can impact their lives more than anything the secular world has to offer. They
come away with a sense of community among themselves, with people of the same faith, and the generations that
have preceded them.
The missionary witness in Alaska is needed
among the Alaskan youth now more than ever!
Please prayerfully consider joining one of the three
teams that will serve by offering youth camps in
2016.
If you or anyone you know is interested, please
visit http://www.ocmc.org/about/open_teams.aspx,
e-mail [email protected], or call 1-877-463-6784
ext. 141.
13
You are invited to a wonderful and fun evening of food
and fellowship! All adults are welcome for a potluck
dinner followed by a spiritual discussion.
Saturday, March 19
And
Saturday, April 9
6:00 p.m.
More information to follow
Please Save the Dates!!
No children, please.
Modern Greek History and Culture Dr. Nikos Poulopouos
March 10 -April 13
Thursdays, 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm
St. Louis County Library Headquarters
1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63131
This six (6) week course will examine major features
of Modern Greek history, culture and society. Although a
part of the course will deal with nation building and the
political history of Greece, we will also examine the broad
historical trends that have shaped the distinct cultural,
social, and political developments in the Balkan region
from the late 18th to the end of the 20th century.
Open to the Public
This is the third of a three part lecture series.
Inquires
email: [email protected] or
Phone: (314) 475-5083
Please remit registration fee of $10.00
(Students free)
to
Hellenic Society
636 Pine Creek Dr.
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Festival Baking
It will be here before you know it! Festival
preparations have begun. Every Wednesday the
ladies will be preparing food for the festival.
If you are interested in helping please call
Amalia Karakasis at 314-495-0305.
Festival dates are Friday, May 27-Monday, May 30!
14
15
Please join His Grace, Bishop
NEOFITOS Of Nyeri and Mt. Kenya
Tuesday, March 29th 6:30 pm
For the Service of Great Compline
Followed by a reception and presentation on
“Fasting, Prayer, and Mission”
The Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
1755 Des Peres Rd, Town & Country, MO 63131
The
Daughters of Epiros
invite you to their
Annual
Apokreatiko
Glendi Saturday, March 12
Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25.00 (Children under 12 Free)
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
1755 Des Peres Road
Dinner with a Special Kids’ Meal
Music by Pericles Production Cash Bar
Raffle Prizes Face Painting,
Costumes Encouraged
16
Greek Independence Day Luncheon
April 3
Immediately Following Divine Liturgy
Come and Enjoy Lenten Luncheon Menu Adults: $15.00
16 and under: Free
Poems and Skits Performed by the Greek School Students
Guest Speaker: Dr. Deborah Cosmopoulos
The Greek Independence Day Luncheon is Donated by the Family of Harry and Agni Karagiannis in Loving Memory of Kostandinos and Efthimia Karagiannis
17
March 11
Fried Cod Fish, Hush Puppies & Slaw…….$8.00
Baked Fish with Stewed Green Beans with Potatoes ..$7.00
Moussaka…………….…..$7.00
(eggplant, potato, zucchini and ground beef casserole0
Gyro Sandwich……………….$5.00
(seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread
with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce)
Chicken Avgolemeno Soup…….Sm. $3.00 Lg. $5.00
2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……….....2 for $3.00
Spanakopita (spinach pita) or Tyropita (cheese pita)...$3.00
Greek Salad with olive oil dressing.....................$5.00
Dessert……….$3.00
(Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, or Walnut Cake)
March 25
Fried Cod & Catfish Combo with
Hush Puppies & Slaw . . . . . .$8.00
Baked Fish with Mixed Vegetables. . . . . $7.00
Pastitsio (ground beef, macaroni casserole) . . . . . .$6.00
Gyro Sandwich.............................$5.00
(seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread
with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce)
Lentil Soup…….Sm. $3.00 Lg. $5.00
2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……….....2 for $3.00
Spanakopita (spinach pita) or Tyropita (cheese pita)...$3.00
Greek Salad with olive oil dressing.....................$5.00
Dessert……….$3.00
(Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, or Walnut Cake)
March 18
Corned Beef & Cabbage . . . . . . . . . .$8.00
Baked Fish with Rice……...…..$7.00
Pastitsio (ground beef, macaroni casserole)……..$6.00
Gyro Sandwich.................$5.00
(seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread
with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce)
Split Pea Soup…….Sm. $3.00 Lg. $5.00
2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……….....2 for $3.00
Spanakopita (spinach pita) or Tyropita (cheese pita)...$3.00
Greek Salad with olive oil dressing.....................$5.00
Dessert……….$3.00
(Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, or Walnut Cake)
March 4
Shrimp Saganaki . . . . . . . . . . . .z$9.00
Baked Fish with Mixed Vegetables . . . . . . . . $7.00
Moussaka…………….…..$7.00
(eggplant, potato, zucchini and ground beef casserole)
Gyro Sandwich..............$5.00
(seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread
with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce)
Clam Chowder…….Sm. $3.00 Lg. $5.00
2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……….....2 for $3.00
Spanakopita (spinach pita) or Tyropita (cheese pita)...$3.00
Greek Salad with olive oil dressing.....................$5.00
Dessert……….$3.00
(Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, or Walnut Cake)
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church 1755 DES PERES ROAD
(Just north of Des Peres 14 Cine)
FRIDAY LUNCHEONS
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
March 2016 Menu subject to change
Cash, Checks and
Credit Cards accepted:
Master Card,
VISA, Discover,
American Express
Kitchen Phone:
314-966-6720
Web Site:
assumptiongoc.org
Email:
18
Su
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Mo
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Th
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13
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14
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18
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31
10
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If I h
ave a
ny w
orth
, it is
to li
ve m
y life
fo
r God
so as
to te
ach
thes
e peo
ple;
even
thou
gh so
me o
f the
m st
ill lo
ok
down
on m
e.
St. P
atrick
Mar
ch 2
01
6
Ass
um
pti
on
Gre
ek O
rth
od
ox
Ch
urc
h
19
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
1755 Des Peres Road
Town and Country, MO 63131-1405
Address Service Requested
NONPROFIT ORG U.S. Postage
PAID St. Louis, MO
Permit No. 4628
For Consideration
It would be hard to find a better example of how we must
not be lazy and leave prayer and work until the next day
than that which is given us by St Ephraim the Syrian: ‘Once
a brother was inspired (by the devil) to think: “Today I’ll
give myself a rest, and tomorrow I’ll keep vigil.” But he
answered the thought thus: “Who knows; maybe I shan’t get
up tomorrow either - so I’d better get up today.” So Also,
before he began work, he was inspired with this thought:
“Let me give myself a rest today, and I’ll start work tomor-
row.” He again replied: “No; I’ll start work today, and the
Lord will look after tomorrow.” And St Antony teaches: ‘As
each day dawns, plan your life as though it were your last
on earth, and keep yourself from sin.’
The Prologue from Ochrid: Lives of the Saints and Homilies for Every Day in the Year, vol. 4 by Bishop Nikolai Velimirovic. Translated by Mother Maria. Lazarica Press, Birmingham, 1985.
From the Orthodox Study Bible
2 Corinthians: 7:1
Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and
spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
7:1 An escape from filthiness requires more than thinking
repentant thoughts. For we are enmeshed in a spiritual war
zone, entrenched in patterns of sin that become habitual.
Often, darkness becomes imprinted in our souls and bodies so
that even our wills are bypassed and we sin automatically. To
cleanse ourselves means that by the promises of God, we
embark on a sustained struggle for holiness. This cleansing
includes genuine sorrow for our sins, confession, and
repentance. It means a willful avoidance of sin-arousing
situations, reconciliation with those we have wronged, the
resolute practice of Christian virtue, and cleaving to God
through faith and prayer. It calls us to participation in the holy
sacraments. Is this too difficult for us humans? Yes. Thus the
Holy Spirit, who cleanses us from every stain and heals our
infirmities, who empowers us to live this life of peace with
God and repentance before Him.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982
by Thomas Nelson, Inc.