Saturday, March 18:  OCLife Indianapolis will hold a prayer service for mothers in crisis and unborn babies in danger from 10-11am as part of the 40 Days for Life campaign. While most of us will not travel to Indy Saturday, let us prayerfully remember them wherever we are that morning.

Nathan Hoppe, missionary to Albania will be with us this weekend.

On Saturday at 2:00, he will  present a retreat .

On Sunday he will give a slide show and a Mission Albania update during coffee hour today. A collection will be received

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Sunday, March 19, 2017

Third Sunday of Great Lent

The Life-Giving Cross

Martyrs Chrysanthos, Daria, and those with them of Rome; Martyr Pancharios of Nicomedia; New-martyr Demetrios the joiner of Constantinople; Venerable Innocent of Komel

Visitors, you are always welcome here. Parishioners, we miss you when you are not with us.

 Nourishment of the Soul: “Thou, O Christ our Savior, hast become for me the path of life which leads to the Father. There is but one path, and it is my joy, and at the end of it is the heavenly kingdom.” — St. Ephraim the Syrian

Coffee Hour Foods: Contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with G-H.

March is Women’s Month:  Today April will read the Epistle, and  Dee, Abby, and Lilly will usher.

Tonight at 5:00:  Sunday, March 19: Lenten Vespers will be at St. John the Forerunner in Indianapolis,  S. Blaine Ave. Next week’s service is at St. George in Terre Haute, 1900 S. 4th St.

O101 on Wednesday, March 22nd: April Blair’s topic is The Life of the Theotokos.

 A Note from Alex Alexander:

To my brothers and sisters at All Saints: I would like to thank all who have sent Cathy and me both get-well cards and cards of well-wishes.  They are truly appreciated.  When I see the name on each card I can imagine that person sitting down to write it. Please know that you are truly loved.  I pray to the Lord to bless you and yours. – Alex

 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.

Nathan Hoppe, missionary to Albania,  will present a slide show and a Mission Albania update during coffee hour today. A collection will be received. (On the readings page, you will find a note about the work by OCMC.) The  choir will not practice today.

 THIS WEEK

 Wednesday, March 22:  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at 6:00 – O101 follows.

Thursday, March 23: Bible Study at Becky’s home with Kh. Marilyn leading –  3-5:00 pm

Friday March 24:  Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God at 6:00

Saturday, March 25: Divine Liturgy of the Annunciation at 9:00 a.m.

Saturday, March 25: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, March 26: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Choir Practice follows Divine Liturgy with Myrrh Bearers also meeting briefly.

LOOKING AHEAD

 March 26 & April 2: The  choir will practice Pascha music and Lenten music.

April 2: St. Mary of Egypt in Greenwood sends an invitation to the parish to attend their name day celebration. There is a flyer posted in the hallway.

 FAMILY NOTES

 Birthday Greetings: Marah P (19th); Lilly B (20th); Saraqael H (21st); Georges T (21st); Ghada L (21st); Heidi N (21st)

Name Day Blessings: Galina Mc (23rd); Bilen M (25th-St.Mary)

Memory Eternal:  Edgar;  Norma; Florence; Mat. Juliana Schmemann;  Kevin Speier, Stephanie; Kristina (Feb.28th)

Prayer List: Hal  and Alex John; Stephanie  “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl child with stroke and spasms-Improved); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; the Tabbals; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; 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; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina.

Benevolence Fund grew last week. Please consider continuing your support of those experiencing extreme financial demands at this time.

   Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

 Prokeimenon: “O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance.”

Verse: “To Thee, O Lord, have I cried, O my God.”  Psalm 27:9,1

Epistle: The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Hebrews. (4:14-5:6)

Brethren, since we have a High Priest, Who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One Who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. Because of this he is bound to offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not take the honor upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was. So also Christ did not exalt Himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by Him Who said to Him, “Thou art My Son, today I have begotten Thee”; as He says also in another place, “Thou art a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”

Gospel: The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Mark. (8:34-9:1)

The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

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 for the Holy Cross –  Tone 1

O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance, granting to Thy people victory over all their adversaries, and by the power of Thy Cross preserving Thine estate.

Kontakion for Annunciation and Great Lent – Tone 8

To thee, the Champion Leader, do I offer thanks of victory, O Theotokos, thou who hast delivered me from terror; but as thou that hast that power invincible, O Theotokos, thou alone can set me free: from all forms of danger free me and deliver me, that I may cry unto thee: Hail, O Bride without Bridegroom.

The Anti-Trisagion Hymn (Instead of Holy God)

Before Thy Cross we bow down in worship, Master, and we glorify Thy Holy Resurrection.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn for the Third Sunday of  Lent) – Tone 8

The light of Thy countenance is marked upon us, O Lord. Alleluia.

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(Part of a letter from Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC). This church sends monthly support for Nathan Hoppe and his family, serving in Albania.)

Dear All Saints Orthodox Church,

Your gifts have funded missionaries and mission teams who have taught catechism, led women’s ministries, worked on construction projects provided healthcare for those who have limited access, and so much more. Construction has begun on an Orthodox Community Center in Pakistan, several wells have been dug in Africa, and medical education is being offered  in Guatemala because of your generous donations. 376 priests around the world are currently funded through the OCMC Support A Mission Priest (SAMP) program.  Thank you for making all this and even more possible.

With 2016 behind us, we anticipate another great year for missions. We ask for your continued support to bring more people to Christ, build the Church and share His love around the world.  Fr. Martin Ritsi, Executive Director OCMC

Sunday, March 12, 2017

Second Sunday of Great Lent

Commemoration of Gregory Palamas, archbishop of Thessalonica

Venerable Theophanes the Confessor of Sigriane; Gregory the Dialogist, pope of Rome; Venerable Simeon the New Theologian; Righteous Phineas, grandson of Aaron the High Priest

Visitors, you are always welcome here. Parishioners, we miss you when you are not with us. For those on Spring Break, we pray for your time of refreshing and safety.

 Nourishment of the Soul: “It was revealed to Abba Anthony  in his desert that there was one who was his equal in the city.  He was a doctor by profession and whatever he had beyond his needs he gave to the poor, and every day he sang the Holy, Holy, Holy with the angels.”

Food for Hungry People Program: During Great Lent, we are encouraged to donate to this fund (enclosed letter). Coin Boxes are available in the hallway. Make checks payable to All Saints, and we will send one check after Holy Pascha.

Coffee Hour Foods: Contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with Be -F. Fasting foods are served during Great Lent.

March is Women’s Month, so today Rhonda will read the Epistle, and  Nina, Hannah, Ava and Heidi will usher.

Tonight at 5:00:  Lenten Vespers at  Sts. Constantine and Elena in Indianapolis, W. 16th Street.  Next Sunday, March 19: Lenten Vespers will be at St. John the Forerunner in Indianapolis,  S. Blaine Ave.

On Wednesday, March 15th, the topic for O101 is St John of the Ladder: His Life and Teachings.

 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.

Parish Council meets today (Sunday) instead of the 19th.

 THIS WEEK

Tuesday, March 14: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home at 7:00

Wednesday, March 15:  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at 6:00 – O101 follows.

Thursday, March 16: Mitchell Fellowship at the Haney’s 10:00 – Noon

Thursday, March 16: Bible Study at Becky’s home with Kh. Marilyn leading –  3-5:00 pm

Friday March 17:  Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God at 6:00

Saturday, March 18: Retreat with Nathan Hoppe starting at 2:00

Saturday, March 18: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, March 19: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00; – Choir Practice follows Divine Liturgy

Nathan Hoppe, missionary to Albania,  will present a slide show and a Mission Albania update during coffee hour.

LOOKING AHEAD

March 12,19, 26 & April 2: The  choir will practice Pascha music  and Lenten music.

Saturday, March 18:  OCLife Indianapolis will hold a prayer service for mothers in crisis and unborn babies in danger from 10-11am as part of the 40 Days for Life campaign. While most of us will not travel to Indy Saturday, let us prayerfully remember them wherever we are that morning.

March 25: The Annunciation  Liturgy on Saturday morning.

FAMILY NOTES

 Birthday Greetings: Amber S (13th); Adam S (16th); Kh. Kristina (18th)

Name Day Blessings: Nolan A (St. Gregory Palamas –12th);  Daniel M (St.Symeon, the New Theologian – 12th); Patricia F (13th); David P (St. Patrick, the Enlightener of Ireland – 17th)

Memory Eternal:  Edgar;  Norma; Florence; Mat. Juliana Schmemann;  Kevin Speier, Stephanie; Kristina (Feb.28th)

Prayer List: Hal  and Alex John ; “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl child with stroke and spasms-Improved); Subdn. Daniel (back to work); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; the Tabbals; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; 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; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina.

  Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

 Prokeimenon: “O Lord, Thou wilt preserve us and keep us from this generation!”

Verse: “Save me, O Lord, for the godly man hath disappeared.”  Psalm 11:7,1

 Epistle: The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Hebrews. (1:10-2:3)

“In the beginning, Thou, O Lord, didst found the earth, and the heavens are the work of Thy hands; they will perish, but Thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle Thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed.  But Thou art the same, and Thy years will never end.”  But to what angel has He ever said, “Sit at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies a stool for thy feet”?  Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?  Therefore, we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.  For if the message, declared by angels, was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?  It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard Him.

 Gospel: The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Mark. (2:1-12)

At that time, when Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that He was at home.  And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and He was preaching the Word to them.  And they came, bringing to Jesus a paralytic carried by four men.  And when they could not get near Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay.  And when Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”  Now, some of the scribes were sitting there, reasoning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus?  It is blasphemy!  Who can forgive sins but God alone?”  And immediately Jesus, perceiving in His spirit that they thus reasoned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you reason thus in your hearts?  Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’?  But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – He said to the paralytic – “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.”  And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all.  So that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

Divine Liturgy Variables

 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.

Kontakion for Annunciation and Great Lent – Tone 8

To thee, the Champion Leader, do I offer thanks of victory, O Theotokos, thou who hast delivered me from terror; but as thou that hast that power invincible, O Theotokos, thou alone can set me free: from all forms of danger free me and deliver me, that I may cry unto thee: Hail, O Bride without Bridegroom.

Spiritual Food

 ‘Whoever hammers a lump of iron, first decides what he is going to make of it, a scythe, a sword, or an axe. Even so we ought to make up our minds what kind of virtue we want to forge or we labor in vain.’ – Abba Anthony- The Sayings of the Desert Father

The Seven Capital Virtues are as follows:

Humility – Humility is the virtue that counters pride. As pride leads to other sin, true humility clears a path for holiness. Pride is a sin based on undue and inappropriate appreciation of one’s self worth. Conversely, the virtue of humility is about modest behavior, selflessness and the giving of respect.

Liberality – Liberality, or generosity, is the virtue that is counter to greed – the sin of immoderate desire for earthly things. The virtue of liberality is focused not merely on the appropriate concern regarding one’s earthly things, but furthermore on generosity and a willingness to give, freely and without request for commendation.

Chastity – Chastity is the counter-virtue to the sin of lust. Chastity embraces moral wholesomeness and purity, and in both thought and action treats God’s gift of sexuality with due reverence and respect.

Meekness – Meekness, or patience, is the virtue that counters the sin of unjust anger, also called wrath or rage. Where the sin of wrath is about quick temper and unnecessary vengeance, the virtue of meekness focuses on patiently seeking appropriate resolution to conflicts, and on the ability to forgive and show mercy.

Temperance – The virtue of temperance or abstinence counters the sin of gluttony. To be gluttonous is to over-indulge. On the opposite hand, the virtue of temperance is centered on self-control and moderation.

Kindness – Kindness, or brotherly love or love for one’s neighbor, is the virtue which counters the sin of envy. Envy, in contradiction to God’s law of love, is manifest in a person’s sorrow and distress over the good fortune of another person. Conversely, kindness and brotherly love is manifest in the unprejudiced, compassionate and charitable concern for others.

Diligence – Diligence, or persistence, is the virtue which acts as a counter to the sin of sloth. Sloth, as a capital sin, refers to laziness in matters of Faith. Diligence in matters of the spiritual life,  combats laziness. This virtue is manifest in appropriately zealous attitudes toward living and sharing the Faith.

Sunday, March 05, 2017

First Sunday of Great Lent (Sunday of Orthodoxy)

Hieromartyr Konon of Isauria; Martyrs Archelaos and his 152 companions in Egypt;

New-martyr John the Bulgarian

**Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great**

 Visitors, you are always welcome here. Parishioners, we miss you when you are not with us.

 Nourishment of the Soul: “When giving, give magnanimously with a look of kindness on your face, and give more than what is asked of you.” – St. Isaac the Syrian

Notes from the Choir: The choir will approach the chalice, first in line followed by the children in the pre-school class. If you want to sing at Pascha, plan now to practice every Sunday in March and one in April.

Food for Hungry Program: During Great Lent, we are encouraged to donate to this fund (enclosed letter). Coin Boxes are available in the hallway. Make checks payable to All Saints, and we will send one check after Holy Pascha.

O101 on Wednesday, March 8th: Fr. Peter Jon will present on “What happened to the 70 Apostles?”

Coffee Hour Foods: Contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with A -B. Fasting foods are served during Great Lent.

A  Bookmark from the Antiochian Women is in your bulletin today, and a letter to explain its use as a tool of help and comfort in our lives. All people in attendance are welcome to one or several.

March is Women’s Month, so today Linda will read the Epistle, and  Lucia, Jennifer and April will usher. Please see the sign-up sheet in the hallway if you can volunteer. Next week has no one signed up! Spring Break needs to be covered.

 There will be a procession with icons near the end of today’s service. The Clergy and Altar servers are followed by Children with icons, the Choir and then the parishioners and those in attendance.

Tonight: Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Carmel

THIS WEEK

 Wednesday, March 8:  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at 6:00 – O101 follows.

Thursday, March 9: Bible Study at Becky’s home with Kh. Marilyn leading  3-5p.m.

Friday March 10:  Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God at 6:00

Saturday, March 11: Great Vespers at 5:00 – Clocks spring forward one hour during the night

Sunday, March 12: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 (Parish Council today instead of the 19th) – Choir Practice following Divine Liturgy

Sunday, March 12: Lenten Great Vespers at 5:00 pm  (Place to be announced next week.)

LOOKING AHEAD

 March 5,12,19,26 & April 2: The choir will practice Pascha music  and Lenten music.

March 18: OCMC Missionary Nathan Hoppe will offer a retreat on Orthodoxy and Missions.  He will present a slide show and Mission Albania update during coffee hour on Sunday the 19th.

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Greetings: Polina M (5th); Alice P (6th); Rachel L (11th)

Memory Eternal:  Edgar;  Norma; Florence; Mat. Juliana Schmemann;  Kevin Speier, Stephanie; Kristina (Feb.28th)

Prayer List: Hal  and Alex John ; “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl child with stroke and spasms-Improved); Subdn. Daniel (back to work); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; the Tabbals; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; 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; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina.

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.

 Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “Blessed art Thou, O Lord, the God of our Fathers!”

Verse: “For Thou art just in all that Thou hast done for us.”  Daniel 3:26,27

Epistle: The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Hebrews. (11:24-26, 32-40)

Brethren, by faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to share ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets; who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, and put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated—of whom the world was not worthy—wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

Gospel: The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (1:43-51)

At that time, Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.”  Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found Him of Whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to Jesus, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, Thou art the Son of God! Thou art the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And Jesus said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.

Divine Liturgy Variables

(Choir versions may differ somewhat.)

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 4

Having learned the joyful message of the Resurrection from the angel, the women disciples of the Lord cast from them their parental condemnation. And proudly broke the news to the Disciples, saying: Death hath been spoiled; Christ God is risen, granting the world Great Mercy.

Kontakion for Annunciation and Great Lent – Tone 8

To thee, the Champion Leader, do I offer thanks of victory, O Theotokos, thou who hast delivered me from terror; but as thou that hast that power invincible, O Theotokos, thou alone can set me free: from all forms of danger free me and deliver me, that I may cry unto thee: Hail, O Bride without Bridegroom.

Apolytikion of the First Sunday of Great Lent – Tone 2

Thy pure image do we venerate, O good One, asking forgiveness of our sins, O Christ our God; for by Thine own will Thou didst ascend the Cross in Thy body, to save Thy creatures from the bondage of the enemy. Thou hast verily filled all with joy, since Thou didst come, O our Savior, to save the world.

Megalynarion

In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation: the angelic hosts, and the race of men, O hallowed Temple and noetic paradise, glory of Virgins, of whom God was incarnate and became a little child, even our God Who is before all the ages; for He made thy womb a throne, and thy body He made more spacious than the heavens. In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation; and it glorifieth thee.

Confession of Faith

(Join in reciting with the clergy at the end of the service)

As the prophets beheld, as the Apostles have taught,…as the Church has received…as the teachers have dogmatized,…as the Universe has agreed,…as Grace has shown forth,… as Truth has revealed,…as falsehood has been dissolved,…as Wisdom has presented, …as Christ awarded,…thus we declare,…thus we assert,…thus we preach Christ our true God, and honor as Saints in words, in writings, in thoughts, in sacrifices, in churches, in Holy Icons; on the one hand worshipping and reverencing Christ as God and Lord; and on the other hand honoring as true servants of the same Lord of all and accordingly offering them veneration.

(LOUDER) This is the Faith of the Apostles, this is the Faith of the Fathers, this is the Faith of the Orthodox, this is the Faith which has established the Universe.

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheese Fare)

Porphyrios, bishop of Gaza; Great-martyr Photeini the Samaritan Woman and those with her; Martyr Theoklitos and those with him; New Martyr John of Constantinople

Visitors, you are always welcome here. Parishioners, we miss you when you are not with us.

Nourishment of the Soul: “If our thoughts are peaceful, calm, meek, and kind, then that is what our life is like.” – Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica

Notes from the Choir: The choir will approach the chalice, first in line followed by the children in the pre-school class. If you want to sing at Pascha, plan now to practice every Sunday in March and one in April.

There will be a Basket Collection today supporting the Antiochian Women’s Annual Project. “Strengthening the Ministries of our Church.” This theme is a distillation of the sweeping vision which Metropolitan Joseph shared…at the summer meetings in July, 2016. His Eminence spoke with farsighted boldness and passion about the many challenges and opportunities which lay before our God-protected Archdiocese. His vision is of a vigorous Church actively proclaiming our faith in Jesus Christ and lovingly ministering to the broken world around us. This is already a description of the ministries in many of our parishes, but to keep moving forward while broadening our active ministries, we must reinforce and strengthen our foundations.

Camp Fund: $640 ,raised last Sunday, was divided among our 7 campers: Ava,  Lilly Molly, Nina, Christian, Gregory and Nicholas .

Note from Camp Family: We so appreciate the support of our church family! The kids love their time at camp and look forward to it every year! As parents, we love that our kids look forward to being around other Orthodox Christians, and learning more about our loving and merciful God, our faith, and church traditions.
Stories are told around the dinner table year round! My children have been astonished that our priests and bishops, who spend time at camp and visit the camp, are real people to look to in their faith!  We, as parents, can only pray that their experiences with these godly individuals carry them into and through their adult years.
All in all, camp touches the campers and their families at home! What a joy!
Sincerely, all our thanks and love!  The Alexander family

Orthodoxy 101 on Wednesday, March 1st: Fr. Peter Jon presents Confession: Who, Why, and How?

Myrrh Bearers meet at noon in the nave to plan upcoming events.

Plan to attend FORGIVENESS VESPERS TONIGHT AT 5:00.

THIS WEEK

GREAT LENT BEGINS TOMORROW!

Monday, February 27: Canon of St. Andrew at 6:00

Tuesday, February 28: Canon of St. Andrew at 6:00

Wednesday, March 1:  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at 6:00 – O101 follows.

Thursday, March 2: Bible Study at Becky’s home with Kh. Marilyn leading  3-5p.m.

Thursday, March 2: Canon of St. Andrew at 6:00

Friday March 3:  Akathist Hymn (Akathiston) to the Mother of God at 6:00

Saturday, March 4: OCF – YES Event & Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, March 5: Sunday of Orthodoxy Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

Choir Practice following Divine Liturgy

Sunday, March 5: Sunday of Orthodoxy Great Vespers at 5:00 pm – Holy Trinity in Carmel

LOOKING AHEAD

March is Women’s month in the Archdiocese.

March 5,12,19,26 & April 2: Choir practices  for Pascha music  and Lenten music.

March 18: OCMC Missionary Nathan Hoppe will offer a retreat on Orthodoxy and Missions.  He will present a slide show and Mission Albania update during coffee hour on Sunday the 19th.

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Greetings: Christopher S (27th); Mezy A ( 28th); Mary B (28th); Adrian P(28th); Nina G (1st); Deacon Lawrence (3rd)

Name Day Blessings: Mezy A (26th – St. Photini); Lilly B (26th – St. Photini); Hannah Noor G (26th – St. Photini (Noor); Shirley R (26th – St. Photini)

Memory Eternal:  Edgar;  Norma; Florence; Mat. Juliana Schmemann;  Kevin (youngest son of Fr. Nicholas Speier, Santa Barbara), Stephanie

Prayer List: Please keep Hal (at home following successful surgery) and Alex (continuing issues) in your special prayers.  “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.” Alex John; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl child with stroke and spasms); Subdn. Daniel; Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; the Tabbals; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; 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; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina.

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.

  Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “  Sing praises to our God, sing praises. Sing praises to our King, sing praises!”

Verse: “O clap your hands, all ye nations!”  Psalm 46:6, 1

Epistle: The Reading is from the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans. (13:11-14:4)      

Brethren, salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed; the night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

As for the man who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not for disputes over opinions. One believes he may eat anything, while the weak man eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who abstains, and let not him who abstains pass judgment on him who eats; for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Master is able to make him stand.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (6:14-21)

The Lord said to His Disciples: If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Divine Liturgy Variables

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 3

Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad, for the Lord hath done a mighty act with His own arm.  He hath trampled down death by death, and become the first-born from the dead. He hath delivered us from the depths of Hades, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Kontakion for Forgiveness  Sunday – Tone 6

O Thou Who guidest to wisdom, and givest understanding and intelligence, the Instructor of the ignorant, and Helper of the poor, strengthen my heart and grant it understanding, O Master. Give me word, O Word of the Father; for behold, I shall not refrain my lips from crying to Thee, O merciful One, have mercy upon me who am fallen.

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meat Fare)

Apostles Archippos, Philemon and Apphias of the Seventy; Venerable-martyr Philothea of Athens;

New Hieromartyr Nikita of Epiros

Visitors, you are always welcome here. Parishioners, we miss you when you are not with us.

Nourishment of the Soul: “Christ loves us in spite of our senseless behavior.  He calls to us and is always ready to respond to our cries for help and guide our fragile steps through all the obstacles that lie in our path.” – Elder Sophrony Sakharov

Notes from the Choir: The choir will approach the chalice, first in line followed by the children in the pre-school class. If you want to sing at Pascha, plan now to practice every Sunday in March.

House Blessings: Please contact Fr. Peter Jon before Great Lent.

 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.

 Orthodoxy 101 on Wednesday, February 22: Dr. John Craton’s topic is ‘Baptism’.

There will be a Basket Collection next Sunday supporting  the Antiochian Women’s Annual Project. The funds raised this year go to strengthen ministries in the Archdiocese such as planning senior housing projects; founding missions; supporting seminarians; encouraging youth ministries;  protecting the unborn; teaching the Faith; caring for the elderly and those in prisons, nursing homes and hospitals; helping to feed, house, and clothe the poor; and inspiring monastic vocations.

Fundraiser Today: Those planning to attend Antiochian Village Summer Camp will favor us with a meal during Social Hour.  Camp fees are due in early March if the $50 discount for each camper is deducted from the $750 fee for two weeks. Please support our youth in this experience that affects their lives in many positive ways.

THIS WEEK

 Wednesday, February 22:  Daily Vespers at 6:00 – O101 follows.

Thursday, February 23: Bible Study at Becky’s home with Kh. Marilyn leading  3-5p.m.

Friday, February 24:  Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00

Saturday, February 25: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, February 26: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Collection taken for Ministry Project – Myrrh Bearers meet around noon.

Sunday, February 26 : Forgiveness Vespers at 5:00  pm on Cheese Fare Sunday

 LOOKING AHEAD

 February 26: Women’s Project Collection – “Strengthening the Ministries of Our Church”

February 26: Forgiveness Great Vespers on Sunday evening at 5:00

February 27: Great Lent begins with Services each evening at 6:00 Monday-Friday.

March 5: Sunday of Orthodoxy- Evening Great Vespers at Holy Trinity

March 5: Choir practices begin with Pascha music as the focus.

March 18: OCMC Missionary Nathan Hoppe will offer a retreat on Orthodoxy and Missions.  He will present a slide show and Mission Albania update during coffee hour on Sunday the 19th.

 FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Greetings: Marcia B (21st); Christian G (21st); Averi V (22nd)

Memory Eternal:  Greg; Dennis (12th);  Edgar;  Norma; Florence; Mat. Juliana Schmemann;  Kevin (youngest son of Fr. Nicholas Speier, Santa Barbara), Stephanie

Prayer List: Please keep Hal (following successful surgery) and Alex (continuing issues) in your special prayers.

“For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.” Alex John; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl child with stroke and spasms); Subdn. Daniel; Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; the Tabbals; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; 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; Brigid; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Caleb D; Megan & Colin; Bill & Sandy; Sabrina.

        Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “The Lord is my strength and my song.”

Verse: “With chastisement has the LORD chastened me!”  Psalm 117:14, 18

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s First  Epistle to the Corinthians. (8:8-9:2)     

Brethren, food will not bring us closer to God; for neither if we eat, are we the better, nor if we do not eat, are we the worse.  But take heed lest by any means this authority of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.  For if any one sees you, as someone who has knowledge, reclining at a table in an idol’s temple, will not the conscience of the one who is weak be emboldened to eat of the things sacrificed to idols, and through your knowledge the weak brother perishes, for whom Christ died?  And thus, sinning against the brethren, and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.  Therefore, if food causes my brother to stumble, I will not eat meat forever, lest I cause my brother to stumble.

Am I not an apostle? Am I not free?  Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord?  Are not you my work in the Lord?  If to others I am not an apostle, yet at least I am to you; for the seal of my apostleship are you in the Lord.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (25:31-46)

The Lord said, “When the Son of man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. Before Him will be gathered all the nations, and He will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and He will place the sheep at His right hand, but the goats at the left. Then the King will say to those at His right hand, ‘Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed Me, I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you visited Me, I was in prison and you came to Me.’ Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see Thee hungry and feed Thee, or thirsty and give Thee drink? And when did we see Thee a stranger and welcome Thee, or naked and clothe Thee? And when did we see Thee sick or in prison and visit Thee?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ Then He will say to those at his left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave Me no food, I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome Me, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see Thee hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to Thee?’ Then He will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to Me.’ And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.

Divine Liturgy Variables

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 2

When Thou didst submit Thyself unto death, O Thou deathless and immortal One, then Thou didst destroy hell with Thy Godly power.  And when Thou didst raise the dead from beneath the earth, all the powers of Heaven did cry aloud unto Thee; O Christ, Thou giver of life, glory to Thee.

Kontakion for the Sunday of the Last Judgment – Tone 1

When Thou comest, O God, to earth with glory, and all creatures tremble before Thee, and the river of fire floweth before the Altar, and the books are opened and sins revealed, deliver me then from that unquenchable fire, and make me worthy to stand at Thy right hand, O righteous Judge.