Sunday, June 19, 2016

The Fiftieth Day after Pascha

The Great Feast of Pentecost

 To our Visitors: We are blessed by your presence.

Nourishment of the Soul: “If from one burning lamp, someone lights another, then another from that one, and so on in succession, he has light continuously.  In the same way, through the Apostles ordaining their successors, and these successors ordaining others, and so on, the Grace of the Holy Spirit is handed down through all generations and enlightens all who obey their shepherds and teachers.” –St. Gregory Palamas

 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 on Holy Pentecost, Kneeling Vespers will follow the Divine Liturgy. After this day, there is kneeling at weekday liturgies, but not on Sundays as directed by the ancient canons of the Church, which forbid kneeling on the Day of the Resurrection.

This week, Father Peter Jon will attend the Annual Parish Life Conference of the Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest, returning Saturday.

 THIS  WEEK

This is a Fast-Free Week.

Wednesday, June 22: There will be no Daily Vespers in Father’s absence.

Thursday, June 23: Bible Study at Becky’s – 3:00- 5:00

Saturday, June 25: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, June 26: Baptism at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – All Saints Feast Day

LOOKING AHEAD

…Next Sunday, June 26 — On our All Saints Feast Day there will be a potluck.

…June 26-29: Apostles Fast begins after All Saints Day. It is brief this year since Holy Pascha was later than usual.

…June 28 : Evening Liturgy — Ss.  Peter and Paul  at 6:00

…July 4:  Annual Parish Picnic with fireworks, food, and music – Bring a friend!

…July 18-22 –– Clergy Symposium at AV–Father attends.

CHURCH  FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Blessings: Mark & Shirley R (24th)

Birthday Greetings: Christian G (19th); Seavor R (21st); James F (22nd); Max W (23rd)

Memory Eternal: Kevin; Christopher (10th);  Carolyn (22nd); John (Stephanie’s relative – 7th); twin infants Michael and Isaiah (10th)

Prayer List : “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”  John Griggs; Kh. Loretta; Amal H; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah (suffering depression); Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; Iva.; James; Alex John;  Jason; Steve D;   Becky H.; Alexis T. ;Tom;  Jake; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Jill; Angie; Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes on leave from Albania;  Jesse Brandow in Guatemala (OCMC Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriests  George & Stephen; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; Rachel B with child; Emily D; Emma; Kim; Nancy; Neal; Lyuda; Bob R;  Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley:  Gabriel; Mary; Doug; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; John C; Marty; Charles; Eileen; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Deborah; Ruth; Steve; Kevin; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Preston; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer; Brigid; Caleb; Dennis & Joyce; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Myrna.

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

 Prokeimenon: “Their sound  has gone forth into all the earth.”

Verse: “The heavens declare the glory of God!” Psalm 18:4,1

Epistle: The Reading is from the Acts of the Holy Apostles. (2:1-11)                

When the Day of Pentecost had come, the Apostles were all together in one place.  And suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.  And there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them.  And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven.  And at this sound the multitude came together, and were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own language.  And they were all amazed and marveled, saying: “Behold, are not all these who are speaking Galileans?  And how is it that we hear, each of us in our own language where we were born?  Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs, we hear them speaking in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (7:37-52; 8:12)

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.  He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.’”  Now this He said about the Spirit, which those who believed in Him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.  When they heard these words, many of the people said, “This is really the prophet.”  Others said, “This is the Christ.”  But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee?  Has not the Scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?”  So there was a division among the people over Him.  Some of them wanted to arrest Him, but no one laid hands on Him.  The officers then went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?”  The officers answered, “No man ever spoke like this man!”  The Pharisees answered them, “Are you led astray, you also?  Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in Him?  But this crowd, who do not know the Law, are accursed.”  Nicodemus, who had gone to Him before, and who was one of them, said to them, “Does our Law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?”  They replied, “Are you from Galilee too?  Search and you will see that no prophet is to rise from Galilee.”  Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Third  Antiphon

O Lord, in Thy strength the king shall be glad, and in Thy salvation shall he rejoice exceedingly. The desire of his heart hast Thou granted unto him, and hast not denied him the request of his lips. Thou wentest before him with blessings of goodness, Thou hast set upon his head a crown of precious stones. He asked life of Thee, and Thou gavest him length of days unto ages of ages.

Entrance Hymn of the Feast

Be Thou exalted, O Lord, in Thy strength; we shall praise and sing of Thy mighty acts. Save us, O Good Comforter, who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

 Apolytikion of Pentecost – Tone 8

Blessed art Thou, O Christ our God, Who hast revealed the fishermen as most wise, having sent upon them the Holy Spirit, and through them Thou hast fished the universe, O Lover of mankind, glory to Thee.

• We will not sing the All Saints Troparion.

Kontakion of the Pentecost – Tone 8

When the High One descended, confusing tongues, He divided the nations. And when He distributed the fiery tongues He called all to one unity. Wherefore, in unison we glorify the most Holy Spirit.

The Anti-Trisagion Hymn (instead of Holy God)

As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Alleluia.

Megalynarion  for the Feast – Tone 7

O Mother that hath known no man, thou didst conceive, not experiencing corruption, lending a body to the Word, the Creator of all, becoming a receptacle to thine insupportable Creator, a dwelling place to thine incomprehensible Maker. Wherefore, O virgin Theotokos, thee do we magnify.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) for the Feast -Tone 8

Thy good Spirit shall lead me into the land of uprightness. Alleluia.

June 12, 2016

Sunday of the After-feast of the Ascension

Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

Venerable Onouphrios the Great of Egypt; Venerable Peter the Athonite;

Martyr Antonina of Nicaea; Venerable Arsenios of Konevets

 To our Visitors: We are blessed by your presence.

Nourishment of the Soul: “Since then, Christ’s Ascension is our uplifting, and the hope of the Body is raised, whither the glory of the Head has gone before, let us exult, dearly beloved, with worthy joy and delight with thanksgiving.  For today, not only are we confirmed as possessors of paradise, but we have also in Christ penetrated the heights of heaven.  We have gained still greater things through Christ’s unspeakable grace than we had lost through the devil’s malice.”– St. Leo the Great

 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

Tuesday, June 14: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home –7:00 – 8:00

Wednesday, June15: Daily Vespers at 6:00

Saturday, June 18: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, June 19: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Holy Pentecost –  Kneeling Vespers will follow.

LOOKING AHEAD

…June 22-26 — Parish Life Conference of the Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest.  Father attends so he will be out the office all week.

…June 26 — All Saints Feast Day – Baptisms & Potluck

…June 26-29: Apostles Fast with Liturgy in the evening of June 28th

…July 4 — Annual Parish Picnic with fireworks – Bring a friend!

…July 18-22 –– Clergy Symposium at AV–Father attends.

CHURCH  FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Blessings: James & Patricia F (16th); Hal & Sandy S [Celebrating their 50th – (18th)]; John & Debbie C (18th); Subdn. Jon & Irene W (18th)

Birthday Greetings: Mary Ann G (13th); Toni B (15th); Sophia B (15th); Steve B (16th); Annie P (17th)

Memory Eternal: Kevin; Christopher (10th);  Carolyn (22nd); John (Stephanie’s relative – 7th)

Prayer List : “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”  John Griggs; Kh. Loretta; Amal H; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah (suffering depression); Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; Iva.; James; Alex John;  Jason; Steve D;   Becky H.; Alexis T. ;Tom;  Jake; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Jill; Angie; Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes on leave from Albania;  Jesse Brandow in Guatemala (OCMC Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriests  George & Stephen; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; Rachel B with child; Emily D; Emma; Kim; Nancy; Neal; Lyuda; Bob R;  Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley:  Gabriel; Mary; Doug; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; John C; Marty; Charles; Eileen; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Deborah; Ruth; Steve; Kevin; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Preston; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer; Brigid; Caleb; Dennis & Joyce; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie, Myrna

  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 to us!” Daniel 3:26-27 OSB

Epistle: The Reading is from the Acts of the Holy Apostles. (20:16-18, 28-36)                 

In those days, Paul was determined to sail past Ephesus, so that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening , if possible, to be at Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the priests of the church. And when they came to him, he said to them:

“Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you bishops, to shepherd the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.  For I know that after my departure ravenous wolves will enter among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.  Therefore remain watchful, remembering that for three years I did not cease to admonish every one, night and day with tears.  And now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.  I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel.  You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities, and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by such laboring we ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’.”

And when he had spoken thus, he knelt down on his knees with them all, and prayed.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (17:1-13

At that time, Jesus lifted up His eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Thy Son that the Son may glorify Thee, since Thou hast given Him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom Thou hast given Him.  And this is eternal life, that they know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ Whom Thou hast sent.  I glorified Thee on earth, having accomplished the work which Thou gavest Me to do; and now, Father, glorify Thou Me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was made. I have manifested Thy Name to the men whom Thou gavest Me out of the world; Thine they were, and Thou gavest them to Me, and they have kept Thy word.  Now they know that everything that Thou hast given Me is from Thee; for I have given them the words which Thou gavest Me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from Thee; and they have believed that Thou didst send Me.  I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom Thou hast given Me, for they are Thine; all Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine, and I am glorified in them.  And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to Thee.  Holy Father, keep them in Thy Name, which Thou hast given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one.  While I was with them, I kept them in Thy Name, which Thou have given Me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled.  But now I am coming to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Second Antiphon

Save us, O Son of God, Who didst rise from us in glory to the heavens; who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

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 Ascension – Tone 4

Thou hast ascended in glory, O Christ our God, and gladdened Thy Disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit, having become confident of the blessing. Verily, Thou art the Son of God, and Deliverer of the world.

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8

Thou, O Christ, art our God of exceeding praise Who didst establish our holy Fathers as luminous stars upon earth, and through them didst guide us unto the true Faith, O most merciful One, glory to Thee.

Kontakion of the Ascension – Tone 6

When Thou didst fulfill Thy dispensation for our sakes, uniting the terrestrials with the celestials, Thou didst ascend in glory, O Christ our God, inseparable in space, but constant without separation, and crying unto Thy beloved: I am with you, and no one shall be against you.

Megalynarion “It is truly meet…”

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) “Praise the Lord…”

Instead of singing “We have seen the true light”, sing the Apolytikion of the Ascension(Thou has ascended…).

 Sunday, June 05, 2016

Sixth Sunday of Pascha

Sunday of the Blind Man

 Commemorations: Hieromartyr Dorotheos, bishop of Tyre; the holy Ten Martyrs of Egypt; New-martyr Mark of Smyrna; Theodore Yaroslavich, brother of Alexander Nevsky; Peter of Korisha in Serbia

To our Visitors: We are blessed by your presence.

Nourishment of the Soul: “In understanding, spiritual knowledge, and discrimination, such a person differs as much from other men as an intelligent herdsman differs from his cattle; for he  partakes of another Spirit and another intellect, of another understanding, and of a wisdom that is not the wisdom of this world.” — St. Makarios the Great.

Be certain to look at the plans for the future of All Saints that are posted in the hallway. While a parish-wide fundraising effort has not yet commenced, donations to the Temple Fund are always gladly received.

Women, ages 35-65: Please notice the flier in the hallway; perhaps you would like to participate in a study led by Stephanie’s friend Trishnee in the Department of Applied Health Science.

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.

The Feast of Holy Ascension on Thursday marks the return of the usual practice of fasting on  Wednesdays and Fridays. (The annual pictorial calendar incorrectly placed Ascension on the 17th.)

THIS  WEEK

Wednesday, June 8: Evening Liturgy — The Ascension of Christ —  at 6:00

Thursday, June 9: Bedford-Mitchell Fellowship at the Haney’s –10:00-Noon

Thursday, June 9: Kh. Marilyn leads  Bible Study at Becky Hrisomalos’ home from 3:00-5:00.

Saturday, June 11: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, June 12: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

LOOKING AHEAD

Holy Ascension — Fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays begins again.

…June 19 – Holy Pentecost Sunday — “O Heavenly King…” – Kneeling Vespers

…June 22-26 — Parish Life Conference of the Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest…Father attends.

…June 26 — All Saints Feast Day – Baptisms & Potluck

…June 26-29: Apostles Fast with Liturgy in the evening of June 28th

…July 4 — Annual Parish Picnic with fireworks – Bring a friend!

…July 18-22 –– Clergy Symposium at AV–Father attends.

Anniversary Blessings: Deacon Lawrence & Marcia B (6th)

Birthday Greetings: Delaney McC (6th); Cathy A (7th); Caden McC (8th)

Name Day Remembrance: Cleo S (St. Kalliope – 8th)

Memory Eternal: Kh. Mary Ellen Braun (30th); Zado (29th); David Barrett (1st); Kevin; Christopher (10th);  Carolyn (22nd)

Prayer List : “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine.”  John Griggs; Kh. Loretta; Amal H; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah (suffering depression); Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; Iva.; James; Alex John;  Jason; Steve D;   Becky H.; Alexis T. ;Tom;  Jake; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Jill; Angie; Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes in Albania,  Jesse Brandow in Guatemala (OCMC Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriests  George & Stephen; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; Rachel B with child; Emily D; Emma; Kim; Nancy; Neal; Lyuda; Bob R;  Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley:  Gabriel; Mary; Doug; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; John C; Marty; Charles; Eileen; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Deborah; Ruth; Steve; Kevin; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Preston; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer; Brigid; Caleb; Dennis & Joyce; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie

     Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “ Thou, O Lord, shalt keep us and shalt  preserve us.”

Verse: “Save me, O Lord, for the godly man is no more!” Psalm 11:7,1

Epistle: The Reading is from the Acts of the Holy Apostles. (16:16-34)                        

In those days, while  we the Apostles were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination who brought her masters much gain by soothsaying.  She followed Paul and us, saying: “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.”  And this she did for many days.  But Paul was annoyed, and turned and said to the spirit, “I charge you in the Name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.”  And it came out that very hour.

But when her masters saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the market place before the rulers; and when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are disturbing our city, and they, being Jews, are setting forth customs which are not lawful for us to receive or observe, since we are Romans.” The multitude then rose up together against them, and the magistrates tore their garments off them, and commanded to beat them with rods.  And when they had inflicted many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely.  Having received such a charge, he cast them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.  And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken.  And immediately all the doors were opened and every one’s fetters were unfastened.  And the jailer, being roused out of sleep and seeing the prison doors open, drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped.  But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying: “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.”  And he called for lights and rushed in, and fell down before Paul and Silas trembling with fear, and brought them out and said: “Masters, what must I do to be saved?” And they said: “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him, and to all who were in his house.  And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptized, he and his entire household.  Then he brought them up into his house, and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, with his entire house, in that he had believed in God.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (9:1-38)

At that time, when Jesus was passing, He saw a man blind from his birth.  And His Disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”  Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him.  I must work the works of Him Who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work.  As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”  As He said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eyes with the clay, saying to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” [which means Sent].  So he went and washed and came back seeing.  The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, “Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?”  Some said, “It is he”; others said, “No, but he is like him.”  He said, “I am the man.”  They said to him, “Then how were your eyes opened?”  He answered, “The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash’; so I went and washed and received my sight.”  They said to him, “Where is He?”  He said, “I do not know.”  They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind.  Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes.  The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight.  And he said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.”  Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for He does not keep the Sabbath.”  But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?”  There was a division among them.  So they again said to the blind man, “What do you say about Him, since He has opened your eyes?”  He said, “He is a prophet.”  The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind?  How then does he now see?”  His parents answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes.  Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself.”  His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess Him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue.  Therefore his parents said, “He is of age, ask him.”  So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, “Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner.”  He answered, “Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see.”  They said to him, “What did He do to you?  How did He open your eyes?”  He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen.  Why do you want to hear it again?  Do you too want to become His disciples?”  And they reviled him, saying, “You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses.  We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where He comes from.”  The man answered, “Why, this is a marvel!  You do not know where He comes from, and yet He opened my eyes.  We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, God listens to him.  Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind.  If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.”  They answered him, “You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?”  And they cast him out.  Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him He said, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”  He answered, “And Who is He, Sir, that I may believe in Him?”  Jesus said to him, “You have seen Him, and it is He who speaks to you.”  He said, “Lord, I believe”; and he worshiped Him.

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 of Pascha – Tone 8

Thou didst descend into the tomb, O Immortal; Thou didst destroy the power of Death; in Victory didst Thou arise,  O Christ God, proclaiming rejoice to the Myrrhbearing women, granting peace to Thine Apostles, and bestowing resurrection on the fallen.

Megalynarion for Pascha : The Angel Cried…

Koinonikon of Pascha (Communion Hymn) – Tone 8

Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality. Alleluia

 Sunday, May 29, 2016

Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

& After-feast of Mid-Pentecost

 Commemorations: Holy Martyr Theodosia of Tyre; Righteous Martyr Theodosia of Constantinople; Hieromartyr Olvian, bishop of Aneos, and his disciples; New-martyr John of Smyrna; New-martyr Andrew Argenti of Chios; John of Ustug, fool-for-Christ

We warmly welcome you to All Saints.

Nourishment of the Soul: ” He who has realized love for God in his heart is tireless, as Jeremiah says, in his pursuit of the Lord his God, and bears every hardship, reproach and insult nobly, never thinking the least evil of anyone. ” – St. Maximos the Confessor

FFHP:  Thanks to your support of the Food for Hungry People Campaign, we mailed a check this week for $913.

The Myrrh Bearers meet today during Coffee Hour.

Be certain to look at the plans for the future of All Saints that are posted in the hallway.

Women, ages 35-65: Please notice the flier in the hallway; perhaps you would like to participate in a study led by Stephanie’s friend Trishnee in the Department of Applied Health Science.

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

Wednesday, June 1: Daily Vespers at 6:00

Thursday, June 2: Kh. Marilyn leads  Bible Study at Becky Hrisomalos’ home from 3:00-5:00.

Saturday, June 4: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, June 5: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

Memorial Day is Tomorrow: Annual blessing of the graves at Valhalla will be from 2-3 pm this year. At 3:30 we will bless the graves at All Saints Cemetery, dedicating the Resurrection Shrine at that time.  At 4 pm we’ll grill meat and veggie burgers or roast hotdogs and begin the feast. Bring side dishes and desserts, please. Many will doubtless enjoy a bonfire in the grove. Rain or Shine; Outside or Inside!

LOOKING AHEAD

…June 8 –  Ascension Evening Liturgy at 6:00

…June  9 – Holy Ascension — Fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays begins again.

…June 19 – Holy Pentecost Sunday — “O Heavenly King…” – Kneeling Vespers

…June 22-26 — Parish Life Conference of the Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest…Father attends.

…June 26 — All Saints Feast Day – Baptisms & Potluck

…June 26-29: Apostles Fast with Liturgy in the evening of June 28th

…July 4 — Annual Parish Picnic with fireworks – Bring a friend!

…July 18-22 — Clergy Symposium at AV

Birthday Greetings: Robert R (29th)

Memory Eternal: Kh. Mary Ellen Braun (30th); Zado (29th); David Barrett (1st); Kevin; Christopher (10th);  Carolyn (22nd- John Craton’s mother-in-law)

Prayer List : “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in the Ukraine.”  John Griggs; Kh. Loretta; Amal H; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah (suffering depression); Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; Iva.; James; Alex John;  Jason; Steve D;   Becky H.; Alexis T. ;Tom;  Jake; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Jill; Angie; Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes in Albania,  Jesse Brandow in Guatemala (OCMC Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriests  George & Stephen; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; Rachel B with child; Emily D; Emma; Kim; Nancy; Neal; Lyuda; Bob R;  Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley:  Gabriel; Mary; Doug; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; John C; Marty; Charles; Eileen; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Deborah; Ruth; Steve; Kevin; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Preston; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer; Brigid; Caleb; Dennis & Joyce; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “How magnified are  Thy works, O Lord! In Wisdom hast Thou made them all.”

Verse: “Bless the Lord, O my soul!” Psalm 103:26,1

Epistle: The Reading is from the Acts of the Holy Apostles. (11:19-30)                           

In those days, when the Apostles were scattered because of the tribulation that arose over Stephen, they traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the Word to no one, except to Jews only.  But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who upon coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus.  And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number that believed turned to the Lord.  The report concerning them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas, to go as far out as Antioch.  When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad; and he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they should cleave to the Lord; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith.  And a great multitude was added unto the Lord.

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch.  For a whole year they were gathered together in the church, and taught a great multitude of people, and the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.  And one of them named Agabos stood up and signified by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over the whole world; and this took place in the days of Claudius Caesar.  And the disciples, every one according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren who dwelt in Judea; and they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (4:5-42)

At that time, Jesus came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.  Jacob’s well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as He was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was about the sixth hour.  There came a woman of Samaria to draw water.  Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.”  For His Disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.  The Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that Thou, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?”  For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.  Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and Who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”  The woman said to Him, “Sir, Thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water?  Art Thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?”  Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst forever; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”  The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.”  Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.”  The woman answered Him, “I have no husband.”  Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband; this you said truly.”  The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that Thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshiped on this mountain; and Thou sayest that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.”  Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.  You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.  But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for such the Father seeks to worship Him.  God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”  The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming [He Who is called Christ]; when He comes, He will tell us all things.”  Jesus said to her, “I Who speak to you am He.”  Just then His Disciples came.  They marveled that He was talking with a woman, but none said, “What dost Thou wish?” or, “Why art Thou talking with her?”  So the woman left her water jar, and went away into the city, and said to the people, “Come, see a man Who told me all that I ever did.  Can this be the Christ?”  They went out of the city and were coming to Him.  Meanwhile the Disciples besought Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.”  But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.”  So the Disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him food?”  Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him Who sent Me, and to accomplish His work.  Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’?  I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest.  He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.  For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’  I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.”  Many Samaritans from that city believed in Him because of the woman’s testimony, “He said to me all that I ever did.”  So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days.  And many more believed because of His words.  They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down Death by death; and upon those in the tombs, bestowing life!

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.

Apolytikion of Mid-Pentecost – Tone –  8

In the midst of this Feast, O Savior, give Thou my thirsty soul to drink of the waters of true worship; for Thou didst call out to all, saying: Whosoever is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. Wherefore, O Christ our God, Fountain of life, glory to Thee.

Kontakion of Pascha – Tone 8

Thou didst descend into the tomb, O Immortal; Thou didst destroy the power of Death; in Victory didst Thou arise,  O Christ God, proclaiming rejoice to the Myrrhbearing women, granting peace to Thine Apostles, and bestowing resurrection on the fallen.

Megalynarion for Pascha : The Angel Cried…

Koinonikon of Pascha (Communion Hymn) – Tone 8

Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality. Alleluia

 Sunday, May 22, 2016

Fourth Sunday of Pascha

Sunday of the Paralytic

Martyr Basiliskos, bishop of Comana; John Vladimir the wonderworker, king of Serbia; Venerable martyr Paul of the Great Lavra and the Russian monastery on Athos

We warmly welcome you to All Saints.

Nourishment of the Soul: “I am often reproached for continually attacking the rich. Yes, because the rich are continually attacking the poor.  But those I attack are not the rich as such, only those who misuse their wealth.  I point out constantly that those I accuse are not the rich, but the rapacious (aggressively greedy).  Wealth is one thing, covetousness another. Learn to distinguish.” — St. John Chrysostom

Prison Ministry Update: Many thanks to those who have contributed to the prison ministry fund. The total collected was $640. Our first shipment of $400 worth of books is being prepared for shipment to the prison library in Carlisle, Indiana. The men are so grateful and wish to express their thanks!

FFHP:  This is the last Sunday to collect donations to the Food for Hungry People Fund, payable to All Saints. Currently $773 has been collected.

 Be certain to look at the plans for the future of All Saints that are posted in the social hall.

 Missionaries in Albania: We have received news that the Hoppes will be back in the U.S. for twelve months beginning in mid-summer and based in Chicago. Their financial needs will continue during their leave. There is a flyer on the bulletin board.

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 in Father’s office around noon.

THIS  WEEK

Wednesday, May 25: Daily Vespers at 6:00

Thursday, May 26: Kh. Marilyn leads a Bible study at Becky’s house from 3:00-5:00.

Saturday, May 28: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, May 29: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Myrrh Bearers meet.

Monday, May 30: Memorial Day

 LOOKING AHEAD

Memorial Day: Annual blessing of the graves at Valhalla will be from 2-3pm this year. At 3:30 we will bless the graves at All Saints Cemetery, dedicating the Resurrection Shrine at that time.  At 4pm we’ll throw meat and veggie burgers on the grill or roast hotdogs and begin the feast. Many will doubtless enjoy a bonfire in the grove.

…June  9 – Holy Ascension — Fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays continues anew.

…June 19 – Holy Pentecost — “O Heavenly King…” – Kneeling Vespers

…June 22-26 — Parish Life Conference of the Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest

…June 26 — All Saints Feast Day – Baptisms & Potluck

…July 4 — Annual Parish Picnic with fireworks – Bring a friend!

…July 18-22 — Clergy Symposium at AV

Anniversary Blessings: David and Jan G (26th)

Birthday Greetings: Dnssa Miriam (26th)

Memory Eternal: Kh. Mary Ellen Braun (30th); Zado (Lina Tabbal’s grandmother-29th); David Barrett (Subdn. Daniel’s brother-1st); Kevin; Christopher (10th)

Prayer List : “For the suffering Christians of Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in the Ukraine.”  John Griggs; Kh. Loretta; Amal H; Dee and Don;  Kh.Kristina; Betsy and Hannah (suffering depression); Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; Iva.; James; Alex John;  Jason; Steve D;   Becky H.; Alexis T. ;Tom;  Jake; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Jill; Angie; Julian; Kh. Mary Sue Walker; Vicki; Hoppes in Albania,  Jesse Brandow in Guatemala (OCMC Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriests  George & Stephen; Adrian; Heather; Susan; Gabriella & Matt; Sara; Shelley; Geni; Rachel B with child; Emily D; Emma; Kim; Nancy; Neal; Lyuda; Bob R;  Leanne; Beth; Lillian; Julie; Roger; Virginia; Marilyn; Eric; Cheryl; Lori; Pam; Debbie; Natasha; Michael & Shelley:  Gabriel; Mary; Doug; Janet; Kelly; Matushka Raisa; John C; Marty; Charles; Eileen; Mary; Marvin, Alice; Katie; Deborah; Ruth; Steve; Kevin; Romaine; Derek, Claire & Micah; Tim; Preston; Sharon; Sherri; Dianna; Michael and Diane; Aaron; Brent; Jennifer; Brigid; Caleb; Dennis & Joyce; Ethan; Lena, Dean; Gayle; Thomas; Amy; Heidi; Gene & Connie     

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “O chant unto  our God, chant ye. ”

Verse: “Clap your hands, all you nations.” Psalm 46:6,1

Epistle: The Reading is from the Acts of the Holy Apostles. (9:32-42)            

In those days, as Peter went throughout all regions, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda.  There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who was bedridden about eight years and paralyzed. And Peter said to him: “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; arise and make your bed.”  And immediately he arose.  And all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned back to the Lord.

Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha (which means Gazelle).  She was full of good works and of charitable deeds which she did.  And it came to pass in those days that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her, they placed her in an upper chamber.  Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him entreating him: “Come to us without delay!”  So Peter arose and went with them.  And when he arrived, they took him into the upper chamber.  All the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and other garments which Tabitha made while she was with them.  But Peter put them all outside and knelt down and prayed; then turning to the body, he said: “Tabitha, arise!”  And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up.  And he gave her his hand, and raised her up.  Then he called the saints and widows and presented her alive.  And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (5:1-15)

At that time, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethsaida, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and troubled the water; whoever stepped in first, after the troubling of the water was healed of whatever disease he had. One man was there, who had been ill for 38 years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the Sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me said to me, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk.’” They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk’?” Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befalls you.” The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus Who had healed him.

Divine Liturgy Variables

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down Death by death; and upon those in the tombs, bestowing life!

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 of Pascha – Tone 8

Thou didst descend into the tomb, O Immortal; Thou didst destroy the power of Death; in Victory didst Thou arise,  O Christ God, proclaiming rejoice to the Myrrhbearing women, granting peace to Thine Apostles, and bestowing resurrection on the fallen.

Megalynarion for Pascha : The Angel Cried…

Koinonikon of Pascha (Communion Hymn) – Tone 8

Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

Priest: Christ is risen! (THRICE)

People:            Truly, He is risen! (THRICE)

Priest: Glory to His Holy, third-day Resurrection!

People:            We adore His third-day Resurrection!

Priest:  Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down Death by death…

People:            … and upon those in the tombs, bestowing life!