Sunday, October 22, 2017
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
Averkios the wonderworker, equal-to-the-apostles and bishop of Hierapolis;
The Seven Holy Youths (“Seven Sleepers”) martyred in Ephesus; Bishop Eulalios

We warmly welcome all who are visiting today.

Nourishment of the Soul: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8

Eliot Woodward, infant son of Phil and Lisa, was baptized today and will receive his first communion!

Parishioner in the News: The City of Bloomington Commission on Hispanic and Latin Affairs selected Dr. John Labban, M.D. as recipient of Outstanding Community Organization: Women’s Health. Congratulations, Dr. John, from your church family as well!

Coffee Hour: Scheduled contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with I-Z; however you may contribute whenever you find it convenient.

The class Orthodoxy 101 has moved from Wednesday to 6:00pm each Saturday, following Great Vespers.

Festival Reflection: Fr. Peter Jon welcomes everyone to email him with suggestions about future festivals: what ran smoothly and what could use improvement. Do you have an idea for an addition to next year’s festival? Overall this year’s festival was a great success and we want to continue to fine-tune and build on this annual invitational event.

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 around noon.

THIS WEEK
During Youth Month, our youth will read the epistle each Sunday and usher.

Wednesday, October 25: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, October 26: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Friday, October 27: Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00
Saturday, October 28: Memorial for Ioana Frecus of blessed memory 4:50 before Great Vespers
Saturday, October 28: Great Vespers at 5:00; Orthodoxy 101 follows.
Sunday, October 29: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00; Myrrh Bearers meet.

LOOKING AHEAD

November 5: Daylight Savings ends.
November 12: Annual Parish Business Meeting
November 12: Nativity Fast & Dedication of the St. Matthew Mosaic
November 23: Thanksgiving Feast at All Saints

FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Memories: Don & Dee H (23rd); Rachel & Luke B (24th); Cathy A & Alex of blessed memory (25th)
Birthday Blessings: Brian Curl (23rd); Ezekiel Crandall (27th)
Name Day Remembrance: James, the Lord’s Brother (23rd): James F; Ezekiel C; James T; St. Demetrios (26th): Marvin P
Memory Eternal: Steven (16th); Bp. ANTOUN (3rd); John (3rd); Fr. George Rados (15th); Michael Thelen (15th)

Prayer List: Becky; Greg; Wilber; Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and victims of recent hurricanes, earthquakes, and attacks; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip; Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don; Kh. Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Julian; Vicki; Hoppes & Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; 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; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy K; Marcia

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “Sing praises to our God, sing praises.”
Verse: “Clap your hands, all ye peoples.” – Psalm 46:6,1

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians. (1:11-19)

Brethren, I would have you know that the Gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the Church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people; so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when He Who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son to me, in order that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were Apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other Apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (8:26-39)

At that time, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as He stepped out on land, there met Him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What hast Thou to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech Thee, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.] Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So He gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so He got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city all that Jesus had done for him.

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.

Apolytikion of St. Averkios – Tone 4
Thy works of justice did reveal thee to thy community as a canon of faith, the likeness of humility and teacher of abstinence, O Father Bishop Averkios. Wherefore, by humility thou hast achieved exaltation, and by thy meekness wealth. Intercede, therefore, with Christ God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Seven Ephesian Youths – Tone 4
Thy Martyrs, O Lord, in their courageous contest for Thee * received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. * For since they possessed Thy strength, they cast down the tyrants * and wholly destroyed the demons’ strengthless presumption. * O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS for Friday and Saturday

Friday: Festival indoor and outdoor set-up activities from 9:30-5:00. Donated baked goods are labeled and displayed. (Work all day or come as your schedule permits.)

Saturday: Annual Festival on Fairfax – 11:00 – 5:00

…Listen on Spirit 95 radio as festival goers are interviewed right here on our parking lot from 10 am until noon. Maybe you will get your moment of radio fame as Bloomington hears about fun, food, and faith awaiting them at 6004 South Fairfax Road!
…Great Vespers at 5:00 – Clean up continues until it’s finished!

Sunday, October 15, 2017
Sunday of Holy Fathers of Seventh Ecumenical Council
Hieromartyr Lucian of Antioch; Venerable Euthymios the Younger of Athos;
Savvinos, bishop of Catania

We warmly welcome all who are visiting today. We’re thankful you can be with us.

Nourishment of the Soul: “Just as the poor should give thanks to God and return rich love to those who assist them, so all the more should the wealthy give thanks, for through God’s providence they are able to perform acts of charity, and so are saved both in this age and in the age to come. For without the poor they cannot save their souls or flee the temptations of wealth.” – St. Peter of Damascus

October 16th is World Food Day: Last Sunday 50 pounds of food were donated here. Thank you! Collections of non-perishable/canned food continue in our parish. Please put your donations in Marcia’s office or in the kitchen freezer.

Coffee Hour: Scheduled contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with G-H; however you may contribute whenever you find it convenient. There may also be festival leftovers to eat or to purchase!

The class Orthodoxy 101 switches this week from Wednesdays to 6:00pm on Saturdays.

THIS WEEK
During Youth Month, our youth will read the epistle each Sunday and usher.

Wednesday, October 18: Daily Vespers at 6:00
Thursday, October 19: St. John Fellowship in Mitchell at the Haneys 10:00 – Noon
Thursday, October 19 Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Saturday, October 21: Great Vespers at 5:00; Orthodoxy 101 follows.
Sunday, October 22: Matins/Baptism at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00; Parish Council meets.

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.

FAMILY NOTES

Anniversary Memories: Micah & Maria V (21st)
Birthday Blessings: Matushka Raisa (97 on October 15th); Linda B (16th); Kaylee F (17th); Aaron H (17th); Joel A (20th)
Name Day Remembrance: Fr. Lucas C (Luke the Evangelist – 18th); Luke B (Luke the Evangelist – 18th); Joel A (The Prophet Joel – 19th)
Memory Eternal: Steven (16th); Bp. ANTOUN (3rd); John (3rd)

LOOKING AHEAD

October 22: Baptism of Eliot Woodward, infant son of Phil and Lisa
October 27: Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos
October 28: Memorial for Ioana Frecus of blessed memory 4:50
November 12: Annual Parish Business Meeting

Prayer List: Becky; Greg; Wilber; Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and victims of recent hurricanes, earthquakes, and attacks; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip; Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don; Kh. Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Julian; Vicki; Hoppes & Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; 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; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy K; Marcia

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “Blessed are Thou, O Lord, the God of our Fathers.”
Verse: “For Thou art just in all that Thou hast done.” – Psalm 3:26,27

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to Titus. (3:8-15) – For the Holy Fathers

Titus, my son, the saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men. But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissension, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile. As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned. When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful. All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (8:5-15)

The Lord spoke this parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” And when His Disciples asked Him what this parable meant, Jesus said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

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.

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.

Sunday, October 8, 2017
Righteous Mother Pelagia, the Penitent of Antioch
Martyr Pelagia the Virgin of Antioch; Venerable Thaïs of Egypt;
New-martyr Ignatius of Prodromou Skete on Athos;
Venerable Philotheos, patriarch of Constantinople; Martyr Ignatius the monk of Bulgaria

We warmly welcome all who are visiting today. We’re thankful you can be with us.
Also we invite you to attend or to work at our annual festival.
You will find joy, while being part of this parish working together in fellowship.

Nourishment of the Soul: “Only where Christ dwells is there blessedness. Where Christ blesses, there is heavenly repose. Where Christ turns His benevolent gaze, there is inexpressible true joy. Christ, with His unceasing love for us and His great humility, loves us and invisibly reproves us and reminds us through His miracles that there is life in the Kingdom of Heaven.” – St. Raphael of Lesvos

Food Pantry: Please continue to make donations by putting food in Marcia’s office or in the kitchen freezer. The need is ongoing as the recent donations are almost exhausted!

Coffee Hour: Scheduled contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with Be-F; however you may contribute whenever you find it convenient.

Parishioner in the News: Attorney Adrian Polit has been chosen to provide legal aid for survivors of domestic violence by the philanthropic group 100+ Women Who Care. Axios!(Article in the hall.)

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.

LOOKING AHEAD

October 16: World Food Day – Non-perishable/canned food drive continues in our parish.
October 21: Orthodoxy 101 will switch to 6:00pm, Saturdays, beginning on this date.
October 22: Baptism of Eliot Woodward, infant son of Phil and Lisa
November 12: Annual Parish Business Meeting

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS for THIS WEEK

Wednesday, October 11: Festival Tents and chairs arrive at 10:00.
Friday, October 13: Festival indoor and outdoor set-up activities from 9:30-5:00. Donated baked goods are labeled and displayed. (Work all day or come as your schedule permits.)
Saturday, October 14: Annual Festival on Fairfax – 11:00 – 5:00
Saturday, October 14: Listen on Spirit 95 radio as festival goers are interviewed right here on our parking lot from 10 am until noon. Maybe you will get your moment of radio fame as Bloomington hears about fun, food, and faith awaiting them at 6004 South Fairfax Road!

THIS WEEK
October is Youth Month so our youth will read the epistle each Sunday and usher.

Tuesday, October 10: Bible Study at Kh. Marilyn’s home at 7:00
Wednesday, October 11: Daily Vespers at 6:00; Orthodoxy 101 follows.
Thursday, October 12: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Friday, October 13: Festival set-up activities inside and outside 9:30-5:00
Saturday, October 13: Annual Festival 11:00- 5:00 – Great Vespers at 5:00
Sunday, October 15: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Blessings: Ray L (10th); Brice M (11th); Taylor S (12th); Dn. Lucian S (14th)
Name Day Remembrance: Averi Vicion (St. Philonella – 11th)
Memory Eternal: Steven (16th); Bp. ANTOUN (3rd); John (3rd)

Prayer List: Becky; Greg; Wilber; Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and victims of recent hurricanes, earthquakes, and attacks; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip; Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don; Kh. Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Julian; Vicki; Hoppes & Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; 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; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy K; Marcia

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

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

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. (9:6-11)

Brethren, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (7:11-16)

At that time, Jesus went to a city called Nain, and many of His disciples and a great crowd went with Him. As He drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” And He came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited His people!”

Divine Liturgy Variables

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

Apolytikion of St. Pelagia, the Righteous – Tone 8
Through thee, the divine likeness was securely preserved, O mother Pelagia; for thou didst carry the cross and follow Christ. By example and precept thou didst teach us to ignore the body, because it is perishable, and to attend to the concerns of the undying soul. Therefore, doth thy soul rejoice with the angels.

Kontakion for Ordinary Sundays – Tone 2
O Undisputed intercessor of Christians, O Mediatrix who is unrejected by the Creator; turn not away from the voice of our petitions, though we be sinners. Come to us with aid in time, who cry unto thee in faith, for thou art good. Hasten to us with intercessions, O Theotokos, who didst ever intercede for those who honor thee.

Sunday, October 1, 2017
Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, first bishop of Damascus
& Righteous Father Romanos the Melodist
Martyr Domninos of Thessalonica; Venerable John Koukouzelis & Gregory the Domestikos of the Great Lavra on Athos; Venerable Sabbas of Vishera in Russia

We warmly welcome all who are visiting today.
While we are still under construction for a couple of weeks, we’re thankful you can be with us.

Nourishment of the Soul: “If you completely fulfill the command to love your neighbor, you will feel no bitterness or resentment against him whatever he does. If this is not the case, then the reason you fight against you brother is clearly that you seek after transitory things and prefer them to the commandment of love.” – St. Maximos the Confessor

The Festival Committee meets around 11:50.

Do You Know that the Festival on Fairfax needs your support since it is a whole church event? You might help set up on October 13th or beginning early at 8:00 on Saturday, October 14th. You might bring baked goods on Friday, put out signs, or pass out programs as people arrive. You might stand by the inflatable slide and help children remember to use the slide safely, or find a job indoors or outdoors. You might find your schedule is tight, and can only attend or work a briefly. However much time you can invest in the festival, there are many opportunities to serve. You will find joy while being part of the parish working together in fellowship.

Food Pantry: Please continue to make donations by putting food in Marcia’s office or in the kitchen freezer. The need is ongoing, throughout the year.

Coffee Hour: Scheduled contributors this Sunday are those whose last names start with A-Ba; however you may contribute whenever you find it convenient.

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
October is Youth Month so our youth will read the epistle each Sunday and usher.

Wednesday, October 4: Daily Vespers at 6:00; Orthodoxy 101 follows.
Thursday, October 5: Bible Study at Becky’s home 3:00 – 5:00
Saturday, October 7: Great Vespers at 5:00
Sunday, October 8: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 – Clergy Appreciation Sunday

LOOKING AHEAD

October 11: Festival Tents and chairs arrive at 10:00.
October 13: Festival indoor and outdoor set-up activities from 9:30-5:00. Donated baked goods are labeled and displayed. (Work all day or come as your schedule permits.)
October 14: Annual Festival on Fairfax – 11:00 – 5:00
October 21: Orthodoxy 101 will switch to 6:00pm, Saturdays, beginning on this date.

FAMILY NOTES

Birthday Blessings: Leanne B (3rd); Sharon K (3rd); Van L (5th); Don Haney (6th) Mikaela H (7th)
Name Day Remembrance: Charles C (Apostle Thomas – 6th)
Memory Eternal: Heather; Kh. Mary Sue Walker (27th); Steven (16th)

Prayer List: Becky; Greg; Wilber; Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and victims of recent hurricanes and earthquakes; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip; Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don; Kh. Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett; Julian; Vicki; Hoppes & Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; 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; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy K; Marcia

Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

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

Epistle: The Reading is from St. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. (6:16-7:1)

Brethren, we are the temple of the living God; as God said, “I will live in them and move among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Therefore, come out from them, and be separate from them,” says the Lord, “and touch nothing unclean; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, and make holiness perfect in the fear of God.

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (6:31-36)

The Lord said: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”

Divine Liturgy Variables

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

Apolytikion of St. Ananias – Tone 3
O holy Apostle Ananias, intercede with our merciful God to grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

Apolytikion of St. Romanos – Tone 8
Through thee, the divine likeness was securely preserved, O Father Romanos; for thou didst carry the cross and follow Christ. By example and precept, thou didst teach us to ignore the body, because it is perishable, and to attend to the concerns of the undying soul. Therefore, doth thy soul rejoice with the angels.

Kontakion for Ordinary Sundays – Tone 2
O Undisputed intercessor of Christians, O Mediatrix who is unrejected by the Creator; turn not away from the voice of our petitions, though we be sinners. Come to us with aid in time, who cry unto thee in faith, for thou art good. Hasten to us with intercessions, O Theotokos, who didst ever intercede for those who honor thee.

Sunday, September 24, 2017

Proto-martyr Thekla, Equal-to-the-Apostles; Venerable Silouan of Athos

Commemoration of the wonder-working icon of the Theotokos of the Myrtle Tree;

New-martyr Ahmed; Venerable Nicander of Pskov; the Synaxis of All Saints of Alaska

We warmly welcome all who are visiting today. While we are still under construction for a couple of weeks, we’re thankful you can be with us for our first liturgy in our expanded worship space.

 Nourishment of the Soul:  “Thirst after Jesus, and He will satisfy you with His love.” – St. Isaac the Syrian

Hurricane Appeal: Today is the final Sunday we will place a basket for Hurricane relief. Give generously as you are able. Make checks payable to All Saints.  Our total thus far is $980.

Do You Know that 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. One of the Seven Capital Virtues

 Food Pantry: Thank you for helping us restock. Please continue to make donations by putting food in Marcia’s office or in the kitchen freezer. The need is ongoing, throughout the year.

Coffee Hour: A pitch-in is scheduled for today as we give our college students an official welcome to All Saints. Myrrh Bearers and the OCF (Orthodox Christian Fellowship) have coordinated to present gifts and cookies for our students.

 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 10th Annual Buddy Walk will be today, Sunday, September 24 at 1:00 at the Monroe County Fairgrounds. Registration opens at 1:00 with fun for the whole family including carnival games, a photo booth, inflatables, bounce house, karaoke, and food trucks. At 3:30 all games and activities will close and assembly before the Walk begins. At 4:00, Buddy Walk begins, rain or shine. Hope to see you there! – Missy Shahadey

News from the Myrrh Bearers

…Many thanks for your generous donations to the Myrrh Bearers as you made selections from our recent Treasures Table.  We received  $262 in donations!  – Rhonda

…The Myrrh Bearers meet today around noon.

 THIS WEEK

Wednesday, September 27: Daily Vespers at 6:00;  Orthodoxy 101 follows.

Thursday, September 28: Bible Study at Becky’s is cancelled on this date.

Friday, September 29: Annual Orthodox Christians for Life meal following the Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00. Fr. Jerome Sanderson is the guest speaker.

Saturday, September 30: Myrrh Bearers will have a baklava baking day to prepare for the Festival.

Saturday, September 30: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, October 1: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  Festival Committee meets around 11:50.

LOOKING AHEAD

October is Youth Month. Our youth will read the epistle each Sunday and usher.

October 11: Festival Tents arrive at 10:00.

October 13: Festival indoor and outdoor set-up activities from 9:30-5:00. Donated baked goods are labeled and displayed. (Work all day or come as your schedule permits.)

October 14: Annual Festival on Fairfax – 11:00 – 5:00

FAMILY NOTES

We have no special events on the church calendar for this week. If you have not given Marcia dates for anniversaries, birthdays, or name days, or if we have incorrect information, please email her at Lbald3368@aol.com.

Memory Eternal: Heather; Kh. Mary Sue Walker (27th)

Prayer List: Becky; Greg; Wilber (+ successful surgery); Emilija; Adrian (Olga’s brother); Bosa; Cathy;”For the suffering Christians of Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, & all of the Middle East, and for those suffering in Ukraine and  victims of Hurricanes, Harvey, Irma and Mary”; Fr. Steven Rudy (cancer); Finley (infant girl); Fr. Basil; Fr. Philip;  Grant (Leukemia); Chris; Doug & Dorothy Barrett; Eileen; Mary Ann & Jen; Dee and Don;  Kh. Kristina; Betsy and Hannah; Leslie (paralysis); Jasmine; Deborah & Thomas; James; Becky H; Tom; Annie; Catherine; Janett;  Julian; Vicki; Hoppes &  Jesse Brandow (Missionaries); Vivian; Natalie; Senior Saints; Patricia; Nicetas; Barb; Shirley; Metropolitan Paul, Archbishop John; Fr. John Koen; Archpriest George; 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; Christy; Pete; Phil & Barb; Tammy

   Today’s Epistle and Gospel Readings

Prokeimenon: “God is wondrous among His saints.”

Verse: “Bless ye God in the congregations!” – Psalm 67:35,26

Epistle: The Reading is from  St. Paul’s Second Epistle to Timothy. (3:10-15)

(For St. Thekla)

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

Gospel: The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according St. Luke. (5:1-11)

(For the First Sunday of Luke)

At that time, Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret.  And He saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.  Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, Jesus asked him to put out a little from the land.  And He sat down and taught the people from the boat.  And when Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”  And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing!  But at Thy word I will let down the nets.”  And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them.  And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.  But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”  For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish, which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon.  And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.”  And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him.

Divine Liturgy Variables

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of St. Thekla, the Proto-Martyr – Tone 3  (By Cyril, Patriarch of Constantinople, 1813)

O glorious Thekla, companion of Paul the divine, thou wast enflamed with the love of thy Creator, by the teaching of the divine preacher. Thou didst despise the passing earthly pleasures, and offered thyself to God as an acceptable and pleasing sacrifice, disregarding all suffering. Intercede with Christ thy Groom to grant us His Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of  St. Silouan, the Athonite – Tone 4

By prayer thou didst receive Christ as thy teacher in the way of humility, and the Spirit bore witness to salvation in thy heart. Wherefore, all peoples called unto hope, rejoice in this day of thy memorial, O sacred Father Silouan. Pray unto Christ our God for the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion for Ordinary Sundays – Tone 2

O Undisputed intercessor of Christians, O Mediatrix who is unrejected by the Creator; turn not away from the voice of our petitions, though we be sinners.  Come to us with aid in time, who cry unto thee in faith, for thou art good. Hasten to us with intercessions, O Theotokos, who didst ever intercede for those who honor thee.