Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Great-martyr Nikitas the Goth and those with him 

Thought for Today: “It is essential in these days to be able to protect ourselves from the influence of those with whom we come in contact. Otherwise we risk losing both faith and prayer. Let the whole world dismiss us as unworthy of attention, trust, or respect- it will not matter provided that the Lord accepts us.” – St. Sophrony of Essex

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 the Elevation of the Holy Cross – Tone 1

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

Kontakion of the Elevation of the Holy Cross – Tone 4

Do Thou, Who of Thine own good will was lifted up upon the Cross, O Christ our God, bestow Thy bounties upon the new Nation which is called by Thy Name; make glad in Thy might those who lawfully govern, that with them we may be led to victory over our adversaries, having in Thine aid a weapon of peace and a trophy invincible.

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.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Epistle

Sing praises to our God, sing praises. Clap your hands all ye peoples.

The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians. (2:16-20)

Brethren, you know that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.  Even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified.  But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin?  Certainly not!  But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor.  For I through the Law died to the Law, that I might live to God.  I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ Who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me. 

The 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 of 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 He 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.” 

Looking Ahead

The Festival on Fairfax is Saturday, October 12th. It is a glorious day of community outreach, when we warmly welcome visitors from our neighborhood and the greater Bloomington area. It is also an important time of fellowship and growth among the members of our parish.

There will be Greek and Arabic food booths outdoors and donated baked goods indoors. We will have live music and children’s activities. There is a GREAT need for volunteers. You may contact the following to volunteer or ask about specific needs:

Daniel Rigsby, chair for the event daniel_rigsby@yahoo.com

John and Lisa Alexander, Greek food johnja.5815@gmail.com

John Labban, Arabic food jlabban@962@aol.com

Nina Rogers, indoor food robert8121@att.net

Rhonda Webb, children’s activities webbrk1@gmail.com

Little Lambs: Next Sunday, September 22, Little Lambs Christian education class is back! Children ages 3-6 are invited to receive the Holy Eucharist first, then to be brought to the nursery where teachers Karen Tabbal and Stephen Burke will lead engaging lessons for young ears. Parents who want to accompany their children are welcome (with babes in arms, as needed), but please be aware that space in the nursery is very limited.

This Week

Today, Sunday: Fr. Peter will be blessing the College students, and there is a gift and cookies for you as well. Parish Council will meet following Divine Liturgy.

Monday, September 16: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Tuesday, September 17: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, September 18: 6th Hour Prayers at 12:00 noon; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm. 

(Orthodoxy 101 with meal provided following Daily Vespers.)

Thursday, September19: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Friday, September 20: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Saturday, September 21: Bible Study 9:00 am at Kh. Marilyn’s home,all are invited for a game of kickball at Bryan Park from 1-3pm; Great Vespers at 6:00 pm (Ask Abouna to follow)

Teen and Junior SOYO 6:30 to 8:00 pm.

Sunday, September 22: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.

Family News

Names Day Celebration: Kiya Crandall, St. Sophia (17^th); Faith Farley, St Faith (17^th).

Birthday Celebration: John Labban (17^th); Catherine Cowen (19^th).

Prayer List: Taylor and infant Houston(congenital heart defect);Durlin family;Stephanie and child born to her; Mary and child born to her; Meaghan and child born to her; Fr. Matthew; Marvin; Fr. Peter; Thomas Andrew;Nina;  Nectaria (Released from ICU);;Shu-Mei,Charlie;Shirley; Jim;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mary Ann; Emma; Bob & Bonnie Thelen; Megan (lymphoma); Josiah; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Fr. Basil; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Vicki;Kenzie; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew; Isaac; Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy; Lexi, Ross, Vivian; Theo; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; Missy; Rebecca with child;John; Stanley; Macrina; Anne; Allen; Linda; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Kip; Alexis with child; Ann with child; Anna with child; Amanda with child, Engy with child, Dymphna with child, Erica with child; Taylor with child.

Memory Eternal: Jack; Don; Brenda; Kevin, Ora Lee, Ashraf, Sandra.

Giving Opportunities:

Food Pantry: Thank you for the generous support The Cupboard is well stocked!  Our in-houseFood Pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Donations of nonperishable items of pasta, marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and Tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit and soups are always a great blessing.

Mission Donations: We send monthly support to two missionary units in Albania, the Hoppe family and Hannah Valentine. We welcome and encourage you to contribute to their ongoing support. 

Benevolence Fund: Donations may be made to this fund throughout the year, and are mainly used to support families in need of help with rent and utilities payments.

All Saints’ Sunday Meal: 3^rd Sunday Host-Lewis thru Schnieder; Nina Rogers lead hostess.

Next Week: 4^th Sunday Host- Schuck- Yeager; Rhonda Webb lead hostess.

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail. Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.

Sunday before the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos

Nativity of the Theotokos 

Thought for Today: “When you see an icon of the Theotokos with the infant Christ in her arms, do you know what you are looking at? Heaven and earth! Heaven is Christ, Who is above the heavens; He is the Creator of heaven and earth. And the Mother of the Lord represents all the people on the face of the earth, for she was chosen from among us. She was born from both royal and priestly lineage. The arms of the Mother of the Lord are more powerful than shoulders of the Cherubim and the most blessed Thrones. Who does she hold in her arms? Do you know? She holds the One Who made heaven and earth, all things visable and invisible! – Elder Cleopa of Romania

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 2

When Thou didst submit Thyself unto death, O Thou deathless and immortal One, then Thou didst destroy hades 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 Nativity of the Theotokos –Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe; for from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of the Nativity of the Theotokos –Tone 4

By thy holy nativity, O pure one, Joachim and Anna were delivered from the reproach of barrenness; and Adam and Eve were delivered from the corruption of death; thy people do celebrate it, having been saved from the stain of iniquity, crying unto thee: The barren doth give birth to the Theotokos, who nourisheth our life.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS 

The Epistle

O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance. To Thee, O Lord, I have cried, O my God. 

The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians. (6:11-18)

Brethren, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.  It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.  For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the Law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh.  But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.  For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.  Peace and mercy be upon all, who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God.  Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren.  Amen. 

The Gospel 

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. John. (3:13-17)

The Lord said, “No one has ascended into heaven but He who descended from heaven, the Son of man.  And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.  For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.  For God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.”

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.

Welcome Hannah Valentine!

 Hannah serves as a missionary to Albania. She is always in our prayers and is one of two missionaries we support financially as a parish. It is our joy to have her with us.

Congratulations Ian and Taylor (Shahadey) Hunter on your marriage. May God grant you many years!

Looking Ahead 

Mark Your Calendars for Fun: Next Saturday, September 21, all are invited for a game of kickball at Bryan Park from 1-3pm. Contact Andrew of Amanda Holland to RSVP hollandandrewa@gmail.com; hollandamanda90@gmail.com, or simply show up! All ages and skill-levels welcome.

The Festival on Fairfax is Saturday, October 12th.It is a glorious day of community outreach, when we warmly welcome visitors from our neighborhood and the greater Bloomington area. It is also an important time of fellowship and growth among the members of our parish.

There will be Greek and Arabic food booths outdoors and donated baked goods indoors. We will have live music and children’s activities. There is a GREAT need for volunteers. You may contact the following to volunteer or ask about specific needs:

Daniel Rigsby, chair for the event daniel_rigsby@yahoo.com

John and Lisa Alexander, Greek food johnja5815@gmail.com

John Labban, Arabic food jlabban@962@aol.com

Nina Rogers, indoor food robert8121@att.net

Rhonda Webb, children’s activities webbrk1@gmail.com

This Week

Today, Sunday: After dismissal we will pray a memorial for Olga’s brother, Adrian. Hannah Valentine will speak briefly during the Sunday Meal. All will be invited to contribute to the success to her missionary labors.

Monday, September 9: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am, Holy and Righteous Ancestors of God, Joachim and Anna.

Tuesday, September 10: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am; OCF dinner and discussion, 6:30pm at the Webb’s home.

Wednesday, September 11: 6th Hour Prayers at 12:00 noon; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm. Hannah Valentine will speak about missions during Orthodoxy 101. A meal will be provided.

Thursday, September12: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Friday, September 13: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Saturday, September 14: Matins for the Elevation of the Cross at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10 am; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm (Ask Abouna to follow). Teen and Junior SOYO 6:30-8 pm.

Sunday, September 15: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am. Parish Council will meet following Divine Liturgy.    

Family News

Names Day Celebration: Nanette Maria, Mary Ann Griggs, Mae Sampanis, Mary Barger, Kh. Marilyn Gillquist, Theotokos (8^th);Braylan Smith, Righteous Joachim (9^th);Ariana Vician, LilyBlair, Cora Bidulescu, Patricia Finchum, Rachael Schuck, Righteous Anna (9^th); Steve Blair, St. Cornelius the Centurion (13^th).

Birthday Celebration: Dan Rigsby (9^th); Elena Radchenko (10^th); Felicity Arthur (11^th); John Alexander (12^th); Max Pitchkite (14^th); Donovan Gartlett (14^th).

Prayer List: Durlin family;Stephanie and child born to her; Mary and child born to her; Meaghan and child born to her; Fr. Matthew; Marvin; Fr. Peter; Thomas Andrew;Nina;  Nectaria (Released from ICU);Taylor and infant Houston(congenital heart defect);Shu-Mei,Charlie;Shirley; Jim;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mary Ann; Emma; Bob & Bonnie Thelen; Megan (lymphoma); Josiah; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Fr. Basil; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Vicki;Kenzie; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew; Isaac; Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy; Lexi, Ross, Vivian; Theo; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; Missy; Rebecca with child;John; Stanley; Macrina; Anne; Allen; Linda; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Kip; Alexis with child; Ann with child;             Anna with child; Amanda with child, Engy with child, Dymphna with child, Erica with child; Taylor with child.

Memory Eternal: Jack; Don; Brenda; Sandra.

Giving Opportunities:

Food Pantry: The Cupboard is Bare! Thank you for the generous support of our in-houseFood Pantry. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Donations of nonperishable items of pasta, marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and Tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit and soups are desperately needed now.

Mission Donations: We send monthly support to two missionary units in Albania, the Hoppe family and Hannah Valentine. We welcome and encourage you to contribute to their ongoing support. 

Benevolence Fund: Donations may be made to this fund throughout the year, and are mainly used to support families in need of help with rent and utilities payments.

All Saints’ Sunday Meal:  2^nd Sunday Host – Gillquist thru Leflore; Wendy Elizabeth lead hostess.

Next Week: 3^rd Sunday Host-Lewis thru Schnieder; Nina Rogers lead hostess.

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail. Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.

Beginning of the Indiction: Ecclesiastical New Year

Righteous Simeon the Stylite; Synaxis of the Theotokos at Miasinae

Thought for Today: “While we are living improperly, we fear all kinds of things. When we recognize God, there occurs a fear of His judgement. But when we start to love God, all fears vanish. + St. Isaac the Syrian

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.

Apolytikionof the Indiction – Tone 2

O Maker of all creation, Who hast established the times and the seasons in Thine own power: Bless the crown of this year with Thy goodness, O Lord, and keep our rulers and Thy flock in peace, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, and save us.

Apolytikion of the Synaxis of the Theotokos – Tone 7

Rejoice, thou who art full of grace, O Virgin Theotokos, haven and protection of the race of man; for the Redeemer of the world became incarnate of thee; for thou alone art both mother and virgin, ever blessed and glorified. Intercede with Christ God that peace be granted unto all the world.

Apolytikion of St. Simeon the Stylite – Tone 1

Thou becamest a pillar of patience and didst emulate the Forefathers, O righteous one: Job in his sufferings, Joseph in temptations, and the life of the bodiless while in the body. O Simeon, our righteous Father, intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved.

Kontakion for the Indiction – Tone 4

O God of all, Thou Who hast made all the ages, * O Sovereign Lord, truly transcendent in essence, * bestow Thy grace and blessing on the year to come; * and, O Most Compassionate, * in Thine infinite mercy * save all them that worship Thee, * Who alone art our Master, * and that with fear, O Savior, cry to Thee: * Grant unto all men a fruitful and godly year.

 EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS 

The Epistle

Great is our Lord, and great is His power. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.

The Reading from the First Epistle of St. Paul to St. Timothy. (2:1-7)

Timothy, my son, first of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way.  This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.  For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, Who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony to which was borne at the proper time.  For this I was appointed a preacher and apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

The Gospel

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (4:16-22)

At that time, Jesus came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and He went to the synagogue, as His custom was, on the Sabbath day.  And He stood up to read; and there was given to Him the book of the prophet Isaiah.  Jesus opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor and to heal the broken hearted.  He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.”  And Jesus closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him.  And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”  And all spoke well of Him, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. 

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

Hannah Valentine will be visiting our parish September 7-14. Hannah is a missionary to Albania whom we support monthly. There will be occasions to hear her speak during her stay and opportunities to offer donations to support her vital work.  

Saturday, September 7th: Hannah will speak to the children of Jr/Teen SOYO following Great Vespers. 

Sunday, September 8th: Hannah will speak briefly during All Saints’ Sunday Meal, after the Divine Liturgy. We will take up a collection for her work at that time.

Wednesday September 11th:  Hannah will speak after Daily Vespers during Orthodoxy 101. There will be a meal and all are welcome to attend.

Congratulations Basil and Stephanie Konnersman on the birth of their daughter! Welcome Xenia Mae, may God grant you many years.

This Week

Monday, September 2: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am

Tuesday, September 3: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, September 4: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12:00 noon; DailyVespers at 6:00 pm, (Orthodoxy 101 following, meal provided).

Thursday, September 5: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Friday, September 6: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Saturday, September 7: Bible study at Webb’s home, 9:00 am; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm (Ask Abouna to follow); Hannah Valentine will speak at SOYO jr./teen 6:30pm to 8:00 pm.

Sunday, September 8: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am. Nativity of the Theotokos. Hannah Valentine will speak briefly during Sunday meal, with the opportunity to donate.                      

Family News

Names Day Celebration: Becky Hrismolas, St. Athena (1^st); Moses Holland, Prophet Moses (4th); Audrey Hall, St. Kassianai (7^th).

Birthday Celebration: Patricia Finchum (1^st); Steven Wakefield (6^th); Andrew Labban (6^th); Braylan Smith (6^th).

Prayer List: Stephanie and child born to her; Mary and child born to her; Meaghan and child born to her; Fr. Matthew; Marvin; Fr. Peter; Thomas Andrew;Nina;  Nectaria (Released from ICU);Taylor and infant Houston(congenital heart defect);Shu-Mei,Charlie;Shirley; Jim;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mary Ann; Emma; Bob & Bonnie Thelen; Megan (lymphoma); Josiah; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Fr. Basil; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Vicki;Kenzie; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew; Isaac; Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy; Lexi, Ross, Vivian; Theo; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; Missy; Rebecca with child;John; Stanley; Macrina; Anne; Allen; Linda; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Kip; Alexis with child; Ann with child; Anna with child; Amanda with child, Engy with child, Dymphna with child, Erica with child; Taylor with child.

Memory Eternal: Jack; Brenda.

All Saints’ Sunday Meal: Host1^st Sunday- A thru Gil; Melissa Barbarick lead hostess.

Next Week: Host 2^nd Sunday- Gillquist thru Leflore; Wendy Elizabeth lead hostess.

All Saints’ Sunday Meal

                                      (formerly known as Coffee Hour)

We are excited to announce a new approach to our time of fellowship following Sunday Morning services! Beginning Sunday, September 1st, we are asking EVERYONE to take part in providing food for our Sunday Meal.  Whether you are a member, catechumen or inquirer, if you attend regularly, please plan to bring something substantial to share on your designated week, as we break the fast together. 

                          1st Sunday – A thru Gil – 

                          2nd Sunday – Gillquist thru Leflore

                          3rd Sunday- Lewis thru Schneider

                          4th Sunday – Schuck thru Yeager

If you miss your week, please bring something the following week. Someone will be on hand to “show you the ropes” and instructions will be posted in the kitchen. We also need your help cleaning up…many hands make light work! Questions? See Rhonda Webb, Wendy Carter or Nina Rogers.

Giving Opportunities:

Food Pantry: The Cupboard is Bare! Thank you for the generous support of our in-houseFood Pantry. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Donations of nonperishable items of pasta, marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and Tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit and soups are desperately needed now.

Mission Donations: We send monthly support to two missionary units in Albania, the Hoppe family and Hannah Valentine. We welcome and encourage you to contribute to their ongoing support. 

Benevolence Fund: Donations may be made to this fund throughout the year, and are mainly used to support families in need of help with rent and utilities payments.

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail. Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.

Annual Church Etiquette Reminders

Each September, I feel it’s important to remind our faithful of the ways in which we are expected to conduct ourselves in the Orthodox Church. Please be sure to read these brief teachings in your bulletin, listen carefully to the post-liturgical announcements and look for posted signs in the narthex and hall. These are for EVERYONE, not just newcomers.

Holy Space, Part 1

Something “holy” is set apart for a particular purpose. The Chalice is holy – its only purpose is to hold the Body and Blood of Christ during Communion. It would be unthinkable to use it for any other purpose. Vestments are holy. They are only worn during the divine services – I would never wear them golfing. 

Likewise, our church building is holy. Specifically, the Nave and Altar area, where we worship the One True God, are set apart solely for that purpose.  During the Divine Liturgy, we sing, “Now let us lay aside all earthly cares.” That is the Church’s teaching and should be the heartfelt desire of each of us. With that said, consider the following.

Please refrain from using electronic devices (phones, ipads, apple watches, laptops, etc.) in church. As we gather at the Throne of God to “worship at His footstool” (Ps. 99:5), all earthly cares, including emails, Instagram, news headlines and text messages should be laid aside. We must control our devices and not allow them to control us. By turning them off or leaving them home, we are telling our devices that this is God’s time and space, not theirs. It makes a personal statement that we are seeking God’s kingdom first and trusting Him with the rest. 

Further, I would prefer that the faithful don’t wear watches during the service, for a very specific theological reason: The Divine Liturgy is referred to in the Greek language as the kairos (God’s heavenly time), as opposed to the chronos (earthly, chronological time). When we wear a timepiece, it can tempt us to judge heavenly things by our earthly scale. We may say to ourselves, “Why are we starting late?” or “That was only a 5 minute homily!” or “Why did the communion line take 40 minutes today?” Electronic devices and watches can act like tethers to this world, making our heavenly, liturgical ascent more difficult.

Shortly after I was assigned to All Saints 18 years ago, the clock that hung in the altar area one day fell spontaneously to the ground and burst into pieces. I have never replaced it.

Love, Father Peter Jon

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Return of the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew; The Holy Apostle Titus of the Seventy

Thought for Today: “The Lord Jesus Christ said to His disciples, But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he thsat shall humble himself shall be exalted (Matt. 23:11-12). How often these words of Christ’s come true! How many proud people there have been who try to be above everyone else later fall lower than everyone; and how many humble, insignificant, poverty-born people who began their lives in hardships and suffering, who later became great people. This is the story of many saints.” + St. Luke of Crimea

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 for Ss. Bartholomew & Titus – Tone 3

O Holy Apostles, intercede with our merciful God, to grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

Kontakion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

By thy holy nativity, O pure one, Joachim and Anna were delivered from the reproach of barrenness; and Adam and Eve were delivered from the corruption of death; thy people do celebrate it, having been saved from the stain of iniquity, crying unto thee: The barren doth give birth to the Theotokos, who nourisheth our life. 

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. 

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS 

The Epistle

Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them. God is known in Judah; His Name is great in Israel.

The Reading from the First Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians. (3:9-17)

Brethren, we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.

According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder. I laid a foundation, and another man is building upon it. Let each man take care how he builds upon it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw- each man’s work will become manifest; for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of  work each one has done. If the work which any man has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.

Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and that temple you are. 

The Gospel 

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (14:22-34)

At that time, Jesus made the Disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the Disciples’ boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the Disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately He spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is Thee, bid me come to Thee on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him, saying to him, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly, Thou art the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret.

Coffee Hour Host: Rhonda Webb with Parishioners S-Z.

Fellowship Meal: Host1^st Sunday- A thru Gil. Melissa Barbarick lead hostess.

All Saints’ Sunday Meal

                                   (formerly known as Coffee Hour)

We are excited to announce a new approach to our time of fellowship following Sunday Morning services! Beginning Sunday, September 1st, we are asking EVERYONE to take part in providing food for our Sunday Meal.  Whether you are a member, catechumen, or inquirer, if you attend regularly, please plan to bring something substantial to share on your designated week, as we break the fast together. 

                          1st Sunday – A thru Gil – 

                          2nd Sunday – Gillquist thru Leflore

                          3rd Sunday- Lewis thru Schneider

                          4th Sunday – Schuck thru Yeager

If you miss your week, please bring something the following week. Someone will be on hand to “show you the ropes” and instructions will be posted in the kitchen. We also need your help cleaning up…many hands make light work! Questions? see Rhonda Webb, Wendy Carter or Nina Rogers.

THIS WEEK 

Monday, August 26: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am

Tuesday, August 27: 3rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am; OCF dinner and discussion 6:30pm at the Webb’s home; Ron and Maria Betzig, Orthodox Missionaries to China will be at All Saints presenting the film “Sight.” Dinner will be served in the Pavilion at 5:45 with the movie beginning in the Fellowship Hall at 6:30. This is the compelling true story ofDr. Ming Wang, an atheist eye-surgeon who came to see that the human body was “fearfully and wonderfully made” by the hand of God. Spaghetti dinner will be served and all are warmly welcome to attend.

Wednesday, August 28: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12:00 noon; Great Vespers at 6:00 pm, with Artoklasia (Orthodoxy 101 following, meal provided).

Thursday, August 29: Divine Liturgy for the Beheading of St. John the Forerunner at 9:00 am.

Friday, August 30: 3rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am; OC Life Akathist to the Protection of the Theotokos at 6:00pm.

Saturday, August 31:  Bible study at Webb’s home, 9:00 am; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm preceded by a memorial for Robert Paul Rogers and Alice Marie Piercefield, (Ask Abouna to follow); SOYO jr./teen 6:30pm to 8:00 pm.

Sunday, August 25: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.

LOOKING AHEAD

Trikirion Films presents: A film by Simon Scionka and Silas Karbo “Sacred Alaska”

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 7:00 pm; Landmark Keystone Art Cinema; 8702 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis, Indiana. $10 Adults & $5 for children 12 and under. Purchase ticket online. Sponsored by the Central Indiana Orthodox Christian Churches

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: Adrian Polit, St. Adrian (26^th); Ephrem Alexander, Moses the Strong (28th).

Birthday Celebration: Ashley Wakefield (27^th); Subdn. Dan Barrett (29^th); Kiya Crandell (29^th).

Prayer List: Fr. Peter; Thomas Andrew;Nina; Mary and child born to her; Meaghan and child born to her; Fr. Matthew; Marvin; Nectaria (Released from ICU);Taylor and infant Houston(congenital heart defect);Shu-Mei,Charlie;Shirley; Jim;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mary Ann; Emma; Bob & Bonnie Thelen; Megan (lymphoma); Josiah; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Fr. Basil; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Vicki;Kenzie; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew; Isaac; Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy; Lexi, Ross, Vivian; Theo; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; Missy; Rebecca with child;John; Stanley; Macrina; Anne; Allen; Linda; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Kip; Stephanie with child; Alexis with child; Ann with child; Anna with child; Amanda with child, Engy with child, Dymphna with child, Erica with child; Taylor with child.

Memory Eternal: Vladimir; Jack.

Giving Opportunities:

The Cupboard is Bare! Thank you for the generous support of our in-houseFood Pantry. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Donations of nonperishable items of pasta, marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and Tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit and soups are desperately needed now.

Mission Donations: We send monthly support to two missionary units in Albania, the Hoppe family and Hannah Valentine. We welcome and encourage you to contribute to their ongoing support. 

Benevolence Fund: Donations may be made to this fund throughout the year, and are mainly used to support families in need of help with rent and utilities payments.

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail. Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.

  Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

After-feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Martyrs Floros and Lauros of Illyria;Venerable Sophronios of St. Anne Skete on Athos

Thought for Today: “We start… imitation of Christ with Holy Baptism, which symbolizes the Lord’s Burial and Resurrection. Virtuous living and conduct in accord with the Gospel are its intermediate stage, and its perfection is victory through spiritual struggles against the passions, which procures painless, indestructible, heavenly life.” – St. Gregory Palamas

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of the Dormition – Tone 1

In thy birth-giving, O Theotokos, thou didst keep and preserve virginity; and in thy falling-asleep thou hast not forsaken the world; for thou wast translated into life, being the Mother of Life. Wherefore, by thine intercessions, deliver our souls from death.

Kontakion of the Dormition – Tone 2

Verily, the Theotokos, who is ever watchful in intercessions, and whose prayers are never rejected, neither tomb nor death could control. But since she is the Mother of Life, He Who dwelt in her ever-virgin womb did translate her to life.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS 

The Epistle

The Lord will give strength to His people. Bring to the Lord, O sons of God, bring to the Lord honor and glory.

The Reading from the First Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians. (1:10-17)

Brethren, I appeal to you, by the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissension among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brethren. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apollos,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you?  Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispos and Gaius; lest anyone should say that you were baptized in my name. (I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.) For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the Gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.

The Gospel

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (14:14-22)

At that time, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish He looked up to Heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds.

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 

Today, Sunday: Parish council will meet following Divine Liturgy.

Monday, August 19: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am

Tuesday, August 20: 3rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am. 

Wednesday, August 21: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12:00 noon; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm, Thursday, August 22: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Friday, August 23: 3rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Saturday, August 24: Divine Liturgy for St. Kosmas the Aitolian, 9:00 am, followed by potluck lunch; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm, (Ask Abouna to follow); SOYO jr./teen 6:30pm to 8:00 pm.

Sunday, August 25: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: John Craton, St. Oswin(20^th).

Birthday Celebration: Shannon Richardson (22^nd); Fr. Seraphim Moslener (23^rd).

Anniversary Celebration: Matthew Valentine & Coran Macrina Robertson (21^st).

LOOKING AHEAD

Tuesday evening, August 27: Ron and Maria Betzig, Orthodox Missionaries to China, will be at All Saints presenting the film “Sight.” This is the compelling true story ofDr. Ming Wang, an atheist eye-surgeon who came to see that the human body was “fearfully and wonderfully made” by the hand of God. Spaghetti dinner will be served and all are warmly welcome to attend.

Trikirion Films presents: A film by Simon Scionka and Silas Karbo “Sacred Alaska”

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 7:00 pm; Landmark Keystone Art Cinema; 8702 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis, Indiana. $10 Adults & $5 for children 12 and under. Purchase ticket online. Sponsored by the Central Indiana Orthodox Christian Churches.

Prayer List: Fr. Peter; Thomas Andrew;Nina; Mary and child born to her; Meaghan and child born to her; Fr. Matthew; Marvin; Nectaria (Released from ICU);Taylor and infant Houston(congenital heart defect);Shu-Mei,Charlie;Shirley; Jim;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war in Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mary Ann; Emma; Bob & Bonnie Thelen; Megan (lymphoma); Josiah; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Fr. Basil; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Vicki;Kenzie; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew; Isaac; Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy; Lexi, Ross, Vivian; Theo; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; Missy; Rebecca with child;John; Stanley; Macrina; Anne; Allen; Linda; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Kip; Stephanie with child; Alexis with child; Ann with child; Anna with child; Amanda with child, Engy with child, Dymphna with child, Erica with child; Taylor with child.

Memory Eternal: Vladimir 

Coffee Hour Host: Nina Rogers with Parishioners H-R.

Next Week Host: Melissa Barbarick with Parishioners A-B.

Giving Opportunities:

Our In-House Food Pantry: Thank you for the generous support to theFood Pantry. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Donations of nonperishable items of pasta, marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and Tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit and soups are always welcome.

Mission Donations: We send monthly support to two missionary units in Albania, the Hoppe family and Hannah Valentine. We welcome and encourage you to contribute to their ongoing support. 

Benevolence Fund: Donations may be made to this fund throughout the year, and are mainly used to support families in need of help with rent and utilities payments.

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail. Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.