Sunday, January 28, 2018
Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican
God-bearing Fathers Ephraim and Isaac the Syrians; Venerable Palladios of Antioch;
Martyr Charita; Venerable Theodosios of Totma in Vologda

Nourishment of the Soul: “The fear of God makes a person wise. What is the fear of God? Not that one should be afraid of God, but that one should be afraid to sadden someone or harm someone. We should do no wrong nor make accusations against anyone. This is wisdom. After all this, God will illumine you as to what you should do in your life.” – St. Sophia of Kleisoura

Today begins the Lenten triodion. It is called the triodion because the canons appointed for Matins during this period are composed of three odes each. Essentially, this marks the beginning of the pre-Lenten period, lasting three weeks and leading us into the Great Fast, Holy Week, and Holy Pascha.

Today is the Chili Fundraiser Cook-off! We encourage each person to donate $5.00 for the meal; however, to reach the goal of $600 for the Women’s Care Center, OC for Life hopes some will donate more. A variety of chili recipes is expected! YUM! (Thanks to all who have prepared the meal!)

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession. If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread in the wooden bowls held by the altar servers at the front of the church.

House Blessings: The season of house blessings is more than halfway complete, so if you have not yet been visited with the blessing, please contact Father Peter Jon via email at pgillquist@hotmail.com with your availability. (He will offer the blessing for your vehicles as well.)

Myrrh Bearers meet today.

THIS WEEK

Please note that during the Triodion and Great Lent, Matins
will begin 10 minutes earlier than usual at 8:50.

Wednesday, January 31: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, February 1: Bible Study at Becky’s home – 3:00 – 5:00
Thursday February 1: Liturgy of the Presentation at 6:00
Saturday, February 3: Great Vespers at 5:00 – Orthodoxy 101 follows.
Sunday, February 4: Matins at 8:50; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

LOOKING AHEAD

…Thursdays through March 29th (excluding Feb. 1st & 22nd): Bible Study on the Gospel of John at the Webb’s home – 7:00-8:30 at 3960 E. Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401; 314-313-275; webbrk1@gmail.com.
…Orthodoxy 101 resumes on Saturdays in February after Great Vespers.
…Bible Study at Becky’s is planned for only February 1st and 22nd.
…Meat Fare (Feb. 11th); Cheese Fare – Judgment Sunday (Feb. 18th)
…February 19th: Great Lent begins with the Canon of St. Andrew, Presanctified Liturgy, and Akathist to the Mother of God in the first week!
… Sunday of Orthodoxy (Feb.25th)
…March 3-4th: Myrrh Bearers Retreat with Mother Nektaria Veloff of St Paul Skete, Grand Junction, Tennessee. Details coming soon!

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Blessings: Michael S (30th); Dee H (March 2nd); Karen T (3rd)
Name Day Remembrance: Rhonda W (St. Perpetua – 1st); S Richardson (St. Bridgid of Ireland – 1st); A Smith (St. Anna the Prophetess – 3rd)
Memory Eternal: Jack (9th); Alexis (15th)
Prayer List: Marvin & Alice; Cathy; Kh. Kristina; Sitto; Elias; Waded; Neva; Bill; Lonnie; Fr. George R.; Iva Lee; Jennifer A’s family; Jeri R.; Rigsby family.

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “Make your vows to the Lord our God, and perform them.”
Verse: “God is known in Judah; His Name is great in Israel.” Psalm 75:11,1

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy. (3:10-15)
(For Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican)

Timothy my son, you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions, and my sufferings; and what befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra. What persecutions I endured; yet from them all, the Lord rescued me. Indeed all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceivers and deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (18:10-14)
(For Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican)

The Lord spoke this parable: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank Thee that I am not like other men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to Heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 1
While the stone was sealed by the Jews, and the soldiers were guarding Thy most pure body, Thou didst arise on the third day, O Savior, granting life to the world. For which cause the heavenly powers cried aloud unto Thee, O Giver of Life. Glory to Thy Resurrection, O Christ; Glory to Thy Kingdom,; Glory to Thy Providence, O Thou Who alone art the lover of mankind.

Kontakion of the Presentation of Christ – Tone 1
Thou, O Christ God, Who by Thy Birth, didst sanctify the Virgin’s womb, and, as is meet, didst bless Simeon’s arms, and didst also come to save us; preserve Thy fold in wars, and confirm them whom Thou didst love, for Thou alone art the Lover of mankind.
Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Sunday, January 21, 2018
Thirty-second Sunday after Pentecost
Venerable Maximos the Confessor; Martyr Neophytos of Nicaea;
Venerable Zosimas, Bishop of Syracuse in Sicily; Venerable Maximos the Greek of Russia

Sanctity of Life Sunday

Nourishment of the Soul: “If a person wants to get an idea about the pyramids of Egypt, he must either trust those who have been in immediate proximity to the pyramids, or he must get next to them himself. There is no third option. In the same way a person can get an impression of God: He must either trust those who have stood and stand in immediate proximity to God, or he must take pains to come into such proximity himself.” – St. Nicholas of Serbia

Chili Fundraiser Cook-off! On Sunday, January 28th, Orthodox Christians for Life Bloomington is sponsoring a fundraiser with a goal of $600 to benefit families who seek help through the Women’s Care Center. We encourage each person to donate $5.00; however, to reach the goal, OC for Life hopes some will donate more. A variety of chili recipes is expected! YUM!

Removal of the Crowns: Rejoice with us as we celebrate the removal of the wedding crowns of Ben and Heidi Swakopf near the end of the Divine Liturgy. May God grant them many years!

Social Hour: Scheduled contributors on Sunday morning are those whose last names begin G-H.

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession. If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread in the wooden bowls held by the altar servers at the front of the church.

House Blessings: Due to the relatively short house-blessing season this year (since Great Lent begins very early), Father will be contacting you in an attempt to cluster blessings by neighborhood and proximity. You are also welcome to email him your availability. It will be JOY to be with each and every family during this holy season!

Asking your Prayers: Several weeks ago, we were exuberant with joy to learn of a new little Rigsby in our midst. Now with very heavy hearts, buoyed by hope in our gentle and triumphant Savior, Dan and Jennifer, with Ava and Tristan, ask your prayers as they mourn their anticipated and deeply-cherished unborn baby. If one member suffers, all suffer together (1 Cor. 12:26). Memorial prayers will be said at the outdoor Resurrection Shrine following the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Parish Council meets today.

THIS WEEK

Tuesday, January 23: OCF at the Webb’s home 6:00-8:00
Tuesday, January 23: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home – 7:00
Wednesday, January 24: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, January 25: Bible Study at Becky’s home – 3:00 – 5:00
Thursday, January 25: Bible Study at the Webb’s home – 7:00 – 8:30
Friday, January 26: Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00
Saturday, January 27: Mandatory meeting for all altar servers at 3:30.
Saturday, January 28: Great Vespers at 5:00 – Screening of Becoming Truly Human movie with a discussion of the program at 6:00 with meal provided
Sunday, January 28: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Fundraiser Chili Cook-off to benefit the Women’s Care Center. Myrrh Bearers meet. Triodion begins.

LOOKING AHEAD

…Thursdays through March 22nd (excluding Feb. 22nd): Bible Study on the Gospel of John at the Webb’s home – 7:00-8:30 at 3960 E. Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401; 314-313-275; webbrk1@gmail.com.
…Friday, February 2: Feast of the Presentation
…Orthodoxy 101 resumes on Saturdays in February after Great Vespers.
…Bible Study at Becky’s is not planned for February.
…Meatfare (Feb. 11th); Cheesefare-Judgment Sunday (Feb. 18th)
…February 19th: Great Lent begins.
… Sunday of Orthodoxy (Feb.25th)
…March 3-4th: Myrrhbearers Retreat with Mother Nektaria Veloff of St Paul Skete, Grand Junction, Tennessee. Details coming soon!

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Blessings: Lydia F (23rd); David P (26th); Ashley P (27th)
Name Day Remembrance: Max W (St. Maximos – 21st); Laura C (St. Xenia – 24th)
Memory Eternal: Jack (9th)
Prayer List: Marvin & Alice; Kh. Kristina; Sitto; Elias; Waded; Neva; Bill; Lonnie; Fr. George R.; Iva Lee; Jennifer A’s family; Jeri R.

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “The Lord will give strength to His people.”
Verse: “Bring to the Lord, O sons of God; bring to the Lord honor and glory.” Psalm 28:11,1

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s First Letter to Timothy. (4:9-15)

Timothy, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, Who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you. Practice these duties; devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (19:1-10)

At that time, Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see Who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Jesus, for He was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 8
From the heights Thou didst descend, O Compassionate One, and Thou didst submit to the three-day burial, that Thou might deliver us from passion; Thou art our life and our Resurrection, O Lord, glory to Thee.

Apolytikion of Saint Maximos, the Confessor – Tone 8
Thou hast shown thyself, O God-inspired Maximos, as a guide to the Orthodox Faith, a teacher of true worship and purity; O star of the universe and companion of the bishops, O wise one. Through thy light thou hast enlightened all, O harp of the spirit. Therefore, intercede with Christ God to save our souls.

Kontakion of the Presentation of Christ – Tone 1
Thou, O Christ God, Who by Thy Birth, didst sanctify the Virgin’s womb, and, as is meet, didst bless Simeon’s arms, and didst also come to save us; preserve Thy fold in wars, and confirm them whom Thou didst love, for Thou alone art the Lover of mankind.

Sunday, January 14, 2018
Leave-Taking of & Sunday after the Theophany of Christ
Holy fathers slain at Sinai and Raithu; Virgin-martyr Agnes; Venerable Theodoulos, son of Neilos the Wise of Sinai; Nina, equal-to-the-Apostles and enlightener of Georgia; Sabbas, first archbishop of Serbia

Beloved ones, let us resolve at this moment
to make Christ and His Church our top priority in the new year.

Nourishment of the Soul: “In the morning you see the sun which comes up brightly and amazes everyone. Think, then, what great gladness will be experienced by souls resplendent in the eternal Sun of Righteousness, Christ, the Son of God. Pray that in your heart too may shine the beneficent light of His Grace!” – St. Tikhon of Zadonsk

Bible Study: God’s Kingdom – on Earth as it is in Heaven: The Gospel of John Chapters 1-10.” The Study will consist of 10 weekly sessions, until March 22nd (excluding Feb 22nd). Join Howard and Rhonda Webb at their home, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm. Please invite anyone who may have an interest – Orthodox Christians as well as those of other traditions. Bring a Bible. Sorry, they cannot accommodate children. 3960 E. Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401 314-313-275 webbrk1@gmail.com.*

Chili Fundraiser Cook-off! Orthodox Christians for Life at All Saints is sponsoring a fundraiser with a goal of $600 to benefit families who seek help through the Bloomington Women’s Care Center. We are asking for volunteers to make chili, but also encouraging all who partake on Sunday, January 28th after Divine Liturgy to donate $5 each for all the chili they can hold! However, to reach the goal, OC for Life hopes some will donate generously. If you are volunteering to make your favorite recipe, let’s hope we can have at least one chili without tomato and one vegetarian chili. YUM!

Offering Envelope Books are available in the narthex: Select one and record your name on the clipboard beside the numeral found on the book. You may continue using an old book if you have unused pages. Marcia

Social Hour: Scheduled contributors on Sunday morning are those whose last names begin G-H.

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession. If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread in the wooden bowls held by the altar servers at the front of the church.

Congratulations to George and Haley Khalil at the birth of their first child, Noor Mouriam, on January 9th! Beautiful!

House Blessings: Due to the relatively short house-blessing season this year (since Great Lent begins very early), Father will be contacting you in an attempt to cluster blessings by neighborhood and proximity. You are also welcome to email him your availability. It will be JOY to be with each and every family during this holy season!

THIS WEEK
January checks should be dated 2018!

Monday, January 15: Vesperal Liturgy for the feast of St. Peter’s Chains at 6:00
Tuesday, January 16: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home at 7:00
Wednesday, January 17: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, January 18: St. John Fellowship at the Haney’s home in Mitchell – 10:00 – Noon
Thursday, January 18: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Thursday, January 18: Bible Study at the Webb’s home 7:00 – 8:30
Saturday, January 20: Great Vespers at 5:00
Sanctity of Life Sunday, January 21: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Parish Council meets.

LOOKING AHEAD

Thursday Evenings though March 22nd (excluding Feb. 22nd): Bible Study at the Webb’s home- 7:00-8:30
Tuesday, January 23: OCF meets at the Webb’s home 6:00-8:00
Friday, January 26: Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00
Saturday, January 27: There is a mandatory meeting for all altar servers at 3:30. Please plan to attend.
Saturday, January 27: Screening of Becoming Truly Human movie with an explanation of the program at 6:00 after Great Vespers.
Sunday, January 28: Fundraiser to benefit the Women’s Care Center. Myrrh Bearers meet.
Friday, February 2: Feast of the Presentation
Orthodoxy 101 resumes on Saturdays in February after Great Vespers.

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Blessings: Aidan G (14th); Rachel B (14th); Cody A (20th); Chris L (20th)
Name Day Remembrance: Amanda A (St. Agnes – 14th); April B (St. Macrina – 14th); Nina G (St. Nina-14th); Nina R (St. Nina – 14th); Toni B (St. Anthony – 17th); Cody A (St. Euthymius – 20th)
Memory Eternal: Walter Romanyshak (9th)
Prayer List: Marvin & Alice; Kh. Kristina; Sitto; Elias; Waded; Neva; Bill; Lonnie; Fr. George R.; Iva Lee; Jennifer A

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us.”
Verse: “Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.” Psalm 32:22,1

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians. (4:7-13)

Brethren, grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore, it is said, “When He ascended on high He led a host of captives, and He gave gifts to men.” (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that He had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is He who also ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) And His gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (4:12-17)

At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Refrain of the Second Antiphon: Save us, O Son of God, Who wast baptized by John in the Jordan; who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Apolytikion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 1
When Thou, O Lord, wast baptized in the Jordan, worship of the Trinity wast made manifest; for the voice of the Father bore witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the likeness of a dove confirmed the truth of His word. O Christ our God, Who hath appeared and enlightened the world, glory to Thee.

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 7
Thou didst shatter death by Thy Cross; Thou didst open paradise to the thief; Thou didst turn the sadness of the ointment-bearing women into joy. And didst bid Thine Apostles proclaim a warning, that Thou hast risen, O Christ, granting to the world the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Synaxis of John the Baptist – Tone 2
The memory of the righteous is celebrated with songs of praise, but the Lord’s testimony is sufficient for thee, O Forerunner. Thou wast shown indeed to be the most honorable of the prophets, for in the waters thou didst baptize Him Who had been proclaimed. After suffering with joy in behalf of the truth, thou didst proclaim even to those in Hades the God Who appeared in the flesh, Who takest away the sin of the world, and granteth us the Great Mercy.

Kontakion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 4
On this day Thou hast appeared * unto the whole world, * and Thy light, O Sovereign Lord, * is signed on us who sing Thy praise * and chant with knowledge: Thou hast now come, * Thou hast appeared, O Thou Light unapproachable.

Megalynarion of the Synaxis – Tone 2
Magnify, O my soul, the Maiden who delivered us from the curse.
O the wonder of thy super-intelligent birth-giving, thou all-pure bride, the blessed Mother through whom we have received perfect salvation, we indite a fitting song, offering as a gift the song of gratitude.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) of Theophany – Tone 8
The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. Alleluia.

Remember that we are celebrating Theophany at 6:00 tonight, Friday, January 5th.
Blessing of the Waters follows.
Bring your Holy Water bottles to be refilled.
Bottles will also be available.

Sunday, January 07, 2018
Synaxis of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner & Baptist John
New-martyr Athanasios of Attalia; Venerable Brannock of Braunton

Beloved ones, let us resolve at this moment
to make Christ and His Church our top priority in the new year.

Nourishment of the Soul: “Christians…We are all created by the one God; we are created according to the image and likeness of God. Let us, therefore, love one another.” – St. Tikhon of Zadonsk

Social Hour: Scheduled contributors on Sunday morning are those whose last names begin Be-F.

Beginning Thursday, January 11, 2018, Howard Webb will be leading a Bible Study: God’s Kingdom – on Earth as it is in Heaven: The Gospel of John Chapters 1-10.” The Study will consist of 10 weekly sessions, from Jan 11 – March 22 (excluding Feb 22). It will meet at the Webb’s home, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm. Please invite anyone who may have an interest – the study is open to Orthodox Christians as well as those of other traditions. Please read John Chapter 1 for the first meeting and bring a Bible if you have one. Sorry, we cannot accommodate children. Howard and Rhonda Webb, 3960 E. Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401 314-313-275 webbrk1@gmail.com.*

Offering Envelope Books are available in the narthex: Select one and record your name on the clipboard beside the numeral found on the book. You may continue using an old book if you have unused pages. Marcia

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession. If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread in the wooden bowls held by the altar servers at the front of the church.

A Reminder that your January checks should be dated 2018!

House Blessings have begun. Contact Father Peter Jon for scheduling.

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, January 10: Divine Liturgy for St. Gregory of Nyssa at 6:00
Thursday, January 11: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Thursday, January 11: Bible Study at the Webb’s home 7:00 – 8:30
Saturday, January 13: Great Vespers at 5:00
Sunday, January 14: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

LOOKING AHEAD

Thursday Evenings January 11- March 22 (excluding Feb. 22): Bible Study at the Webb’s home- 7:00-8:30
Monday, January 15: Liturgy for the feast of St. Peter’s Chains at 6:00
Tuesday, January 16: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home at 7:00
Thursday, January 18: St. John Fellowship at the Haney’s home in Mitchell – 10:00-noon
Friday, January 26: Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00
Saturday January 27: Screening of Becoming Truly Human movie with an explanation of the program at 6:00 after Great Vespers.

FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Celebration: Michael & Missy S (7th)

Birthday Blessings: Charles C (8th); Luke B (9th); Hal S (9th); Jeremy P (12th)

Name Day Remembrance: John A (7th – St. John the Baptist); John L (7th – St. John); Brian O (7th – St. John); Gregory G (10th – St. Gregory of Nyssa)

Memory Eternal: William Bardonner (December 1st); Wilber Field (December 5th); Walter Romanyshak (9th)

Prayer List: Marvin & Alice; Kh. Kristina; Sitto; Elias; Waded; Neva; Bill; Lonnie; Fr. George R.

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “The righteous shall rejoice in the Lord.”
Verse: “O God, hear my prayer.” Psalm 63: 10,1

-The Reading is from the Acts of the Apostles. (19-1-8)
In those days, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the One Who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve of them in all. And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, arguing and pleading about the Kingdom of God.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (1:29-34)

At that time, John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, Who takes away the sin of the world! This is He of Whom I said, ‘After me comes a man Who ranks before me, for He was before me.’ I myself did not know Him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that He might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness, “I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on Him. I myself did not know Him; but He Who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on Whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is He Who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Refrain of the Second Antiphon: Save us, O Son of God, Who wast baptized by John in the Jordan; who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Apolytikion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 1
When Thou, O Lord, wast baptized in the Jordan, worship of the Trinity wast made manifest; for the voice of the Father bore witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the likeness of a dove confirmed the truth of His word. O Christ our God, Who hath appeared and enlightened the world, glory to Thee.

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 6
When Mary stood at Thy grave, looking for Thy sacred body, angelic powers shone above Thy revered tomb; and the soldiers who were to keep guard became as dead men. Thou led Hades captive and wast not tempted thereby. Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst give life to the world, O Thou, Who art risen from the dead, O Lord, glory to Thee.

Apolytikion of the Synaxis of John the Baptist – Tone 2
The memory of the righteous is celebrated with songs of praise, but the Lord’s testimony is sufficient for thee, O Forerunner. Thou wast shown indeed to be the most honorable of the prophets, for in the waters thou didst baptize Him Who had been proclaimed. After suffering with joy in behalf of the truth, thou didst proclaim even to those in Hades the God Who appeared in the flesh, Who takest away the sin of the world, and granteth us the Great Mercy.

Kontakion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 4
On this day Thou hast appeared * unto the whole world, * and Thy light, O Sovereign Lord, * is signed on us who sing Thy praise * and chant with knowledge: Thou hast now come, * Thou hast appeared, O Thou Light unapproachable.

The Anti-Trisagion Hymn (Sung in place of “Holy God”)
As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Alleluia. (THRICE)

Megalynarion of the Synaxis – Tone 2
Magnify, O my soul, the Maiden who delivered us from the curse.
O the wonder of thy super-intelligent birth-giving, thou all-pure bride, the blessed Mother through whom we have received perfect salvation, we indite a fitting song, offering as a gift the song of gratitude.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) of the Synaxis – Tone 8
In everlasting remembrance shall the righteous be; he shall not be afraid of evil tidings. Alleluia.

Sunday, December 31, 2017
Sunday before Theophany of Christ,
Which Falls on the Apodosis (Leave-taking) of the Nativity of Christ
Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome; Hieromartyr Zotikos of Rome, the friend of orphans;
Blessed Theophylact, Archbishop of Ochrid

Beloved ones, let us resolve at this moment
to make Christ and His Church our top priority in the new year.

Nourishment of the Soul: “A wife should respect her husband even when he shows her no love, and a husband should love his wife even when she shows him no respect.” –St. John Chrysostom

Social Hour: Scheduled contributors this Sunday morning are those whose last names begin with A-Ba.

A Reminder that your checks should be dated 2018!

Beginning Thursday, January 11, 2018, Howard Webb will be leading a Bible Study: God’s Kingdom – on Earth as it is in Heaven: The Gospel of John Chapters 1-10.” The Study will consist of 10 weekly sessions, from Jan 11 – March 22 (excluding Feb 22). It will meet at the Webb’s home, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm. Please invite anyone who may have an interest – the study is open to Orthodox Christians as well as those of other traditions. Please read John Chapter 1 for the first meeting and bring a Bible if you have one. Sorry, we cannot accommodate children. Howard and Rhonda Webb, 3960 E. Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, IN 47401 314-313-4275 webbrk1@gmail.com.*

Offering Envelope Books are available in the narthex: Select one and record your name on the clipboard beside the numeral found on the book. You may continue using an old book if you have unused pages. Marcia

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession. If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread in the wooden bowls held by the altar servers at the front of the church.

THIS WEEK

Monday January 1: Liturgy of the Circumcision of Christ and the Feast of St. Basil the Great at 9am
Wednesday, January 3: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, January 4: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Friday, January 5: Royal Hours of Theophany at 9:00
Friday, January 5: Divine Liturgy of Theophany and the Great Blessing of the Waters at 6:00
Saturday, January 6: House Blessings begin.
Saturday, January 6: Great Vespers at 5:00
Sunday, January 7: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

LOOKING AHEAD

Wednesday, January 10: Divine Liturgy for St. Gregory of Nyssa at 6:00
Thursday, January 11: Bible Study at the Webb’s home- 7:00-8:30 (and each Thursday thereafter)*
Monday, January 15: Liturgy for the feast of St. Peter’s Chains at 6:00
Tuesday, January 16: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home at 7:00
Saturday January 27: Screening of Becoming Truly Human movie with an explanation of the program at 7:00 after Great Vespers.

FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Celebration: Darryl & Nancy (4th)
Birthday Blessings: Molly A (31st); Nancy J (31st); Lina T (1st); John A (5th)
Name Day Remembrance: Ss. Emmelia & Genevieve (3rd): Johanna H; Rachel L; Genevieve C; Jennifer R; Haley K
Memory Eternal: William Bardonner (December 1st); Wilber Field (December 5th); Walter Romanyshak (9th)

Please Note that the Prayer List, printed here, will be emptied on January 1st.
Please contact Marcia if you want names added in January. Father keeps another list at the altar.

Prayer List: Amal; Maria; Vivian; Walter; Becky; Greg; Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and victims of recent hurricanes, earthquakes, and attacks; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip; Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Dee and Don; Kh. Kristina; Mary Ann & Jen; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Julian; Vicki; Hoppes & Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Emily D; Emma; Nancy; Neal; Bob R; Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley: Gabriel; Mary; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; Marty; Charles; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Ruth; Steve; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer C; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy K; Jennifer A.

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “All those on earth worship Thee and sing unto Thee.”
Verse: “Alleluia to God, O all the earth.”

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Second Epistle to Timothy. (4:5-8)

Timothy, my son, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already on the point of being sacrificed; the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Mark. (1:1-8)

The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophets, “Behold, I send My messenger before Thy face, who shall prepare Thy way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” John the Baptizer appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And there went out to him all the country of Judea, and all the people of Jerusalem; and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, and had a leather girdle around his waist, and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, “After me comes He Who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Refrain of the Second Antiphon: Save us, O Son of God, Who wast born of a Virgin; who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn there from to worship Thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest Thou didst come. O Lord, glory to Thee.

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 5
Let us believers praise and worship the Word; co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit, born of the Virgin for our salvation. For, He took pleasure in ascending the Cross in the flesh to suffer death; and to raise the dead by His glorious Resurrection.

Apolytikion of the Sunday after the Nativity – Tone 2
Proclaim, O Joseph, to David, the grandparent of God, the amazing wonders; for thou hast seen a Virgin great with child; for with the shepherds thou didst give glory, with the Magi thou didst worship, and by the angel it was revealed to thee. Wherefore, plead thou with Christ God to save our souls.

Kontakion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 3
On this day the Virgin beareth the Transcendent in Essence; * to the Unapproachable, * the earth doth offer a small cave; * Angels join in choir with shepherds * in giving glory; * with a star the Magi travel upon their journey; * for our sakes is born a young Child, * He Who existed * before the ages as God.

Megalynarion of the Leave-taking of the Nativity – Tone 1
Magnify, O my soul, her who hath delivered us from the curse.
Verily it is easier for us to endure silence since there is no dread danger there from for us. But because of our strong desire, O Virgin, and Mother of sameness, to indite well-balanced songs of praise, this becometh indeed onerous to us. Wherefore, grant us power to equal our natural inclination.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 8
The Lord hath sent redemption to His people. Alleluia.