Leave-Taking of Theophany

Holy fathers slain at Sinai and Raithu; Virgin-martyr Agnes 

Thought for Today: “Humility is a Divine property and the perfection of the Christian life. It is attained through obedience. He who is not obedient cannot gain humility. There are very few in the world today who have obedience. Our humility is in proportion to our obedience.”

-Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica

VARIABLE for CHOIR and PARISH

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 Theophany – Tone 1

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

Kontakion of Theophany –Tone 4

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

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

Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us. Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.

The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Ephesians. (4:7-13)

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

The Gospel 

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

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

LOOKING AHEAD 

Save the Date! His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY, will be visiting All Saints the first weekend in February. Please block out the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th on your calendar and prepare to spend a great weekend with our beloved Bishop.

PLEASE NOTE: the banquet on Sunday the 4th will be from 3 PM – 7 PM, not at 2 PM as previously advertised.

House Blessing Season has Begun!  Expect to be contacted by Fr. Peter Jon in the coming weeks.

Annual Parish Meeting: Sunday, January 21. 

Lending Library: New books for Library; The New Roman Empire: A History of Byzantium. Oxford University 2024, Thinking on Bioethics, St. Vlad Semi 2005; Witnesses of Christ: Neo-Martyrs of the Ottoman Period, 1437-1860. St. Vlad Semi (additional copy); One Flesh-Salvation through Marriage. Ancient Faith 2013

THIS WEEK

Today, Sunday: Myrrh Bearers will meet following Divine Liturgy.

Monday, January 15: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon.

Tuesday, January 16: Divine Liturgy for St. Peter’s Chains  at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, January 17: Divine Liturgy for St. Anthony the Great at 9:00am 

Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm (followed by Orthodoxy 101).

Thursday, January 18: Divine Liturgy for St. Athanasius the Great at 9:00 am.

Friday, January 19: Divine Liturgy for St. Macarius the Great at 9:00 am.

Saturday, January 20: Bible Study, 9:00 am at Webb’s home; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm; (followed by Ask Abouna); Jr. SOYO at 3:30pm; SOYO at 6:30pm.

 Sunday, January 21: Matins at9:00 am; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.       

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: Nina Gillquist, Nina Rogers, St. Nina of Georgia (14^th); April Blair, St. Macrina the Elder(14^th); Anthony Gillquist, Jacob Gill, Jax Schulz, St Anthony the Great (17^th); Cody Arthur, St. Euthymius the Great (20^th).

Birthday Celebrations: Rachel Barber (14^th); Phillip Pampreen (15^th); Cody Arthur (20^th).

Memory Eternal: Janice, Gina, Justin.Mother Elizabeth, Bujor, Khouria Ojami.

Prayer List: Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war of Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mat. Raisa; Mary Ann; Emma (Mary Ann’s granddaughter); Bob & Bonnie Thelen;  Wes (infant with brittle bone disorder); Wes’s grandfather; Megan (lymphoma); Mark (CHF) and (caregiver) Barbara;Josiah; Vicki;Vicki’s granddaughter; Steve Crandall; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Marvin; Alice; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew (Texas/military); Isaac (Germany/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; John; Stanley; Macrina;; Anne; Allen; Linda; Marilyn; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Nino with child, Kip, Taylor with child, Erica with child.

 Coffee Hour Host: Wendy Carter with Parishioners C-G.

Next week Host: Nina Rogers with Parishioners H-R.

Giving Opportunities: 

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.

In-House Food Pantry: The Food Pantry is in need of marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, fruit, and soups. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Thank you for your continued support

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.

Synaxis of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner & Baptist John

New-martyr Athanasios of Attalia; Venerable Brannock of Braunton 

Thought for Today: “Prayer for others is very beneficial to him who prays. It purifies the heart, strengths faith, and kindles love for God and neighbor.”  – St. John of Kronstadt

VARIABLE for CHOIR and PARISH 

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 Theophany – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of Synaxis if John the Baptist – Tone 2

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

Kontakion of Theophany –Tone 4

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

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Epistle 

 The righteous shall rejoice in the Lord. O God, hear my prayer.

The Reading from the Acts of the Apostles. (19:1-8)

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

The Gospel 

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

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

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

Save the Date! His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY, will be visiting All Saints the first weekend in February. Please block out the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th on your calendar and prepare to spend a great weekend with our beloved Bishop. Please RSVP by January 10, 2024 at webbrk1@gmail.com.

House Blessing Season is Upon Us!  Please expect to be contacted by Fr. Peter Jon in the coming weeks. 

THIS WEEK

Monday, January 8: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon.

Tuesday, January 9: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, January 10: Divine Liturgy for St. Gregory of Nyssa 9am; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm (followed by Orthodoxy 101).

Thursday, January 11: Divine Liturgy for St. Tatiana at 9:00 am.

Friday, January 12: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Saturday, January 13: Bible Study at Webb’s home, 9:00 am; Ladies gathering hosted by Johanna Hsu at 11:00 am; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm; (followed by Ask Abouna); Jr. SOYO at 3:30pm; SOYO at 6:30pm.

 Sunday, January 14: Matins at9:00 am; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: John Alexander, John Labban, Brian Owen, John the Baptist (7^th); Gregory Gillquist, Michael (Gregory) Gill, St. Gregory of Nyssa (10^th); Sarah Carter, St Tatiana (12^th).

Birthday Celebrations: Ian Yeager (7^th); Charles Coats (8^th); Tyson Schulz (8^th); Hal Sabbagh (9^th); Charlotte Wakefield (12^th); Sarah Carter (13^th).

Memory Eternal: Archpriest Michael, Dn. Sergius, Marcia, Janice, Gina, Justin.

Prayer List: Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war of Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mat. Raisa; Mary Ann; Emma (Mary Ann’s granddaughter); Bob & Bonnie Thelen;  Wes (infant with brittle bone disorder); Wes’s grandfather; Megan (lymphoma); Mark (CHF) and (caregiver) Barbara;Josiah; Vicki;Vicki’s granddaughter; Steve Crandall; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Marvin; Alice; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew (Texas/military); Isaac (Germany/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; John; Stanley; Macrina;; Anne; Allen; Linda; Marilyn; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Nino with child, Kip, Taylor with child, Erica with child.

 Coffee Hour Host: Melissa Barbarick with Parishioners A-B.

Next week Host: Wendy Carter with Parishioners C-G.

Lending Library: New books for Library; The New Roman Empire: A History of Byzantium. Oxford University 2024, Thinking on Bioethics, St. Vlad Semi 2005; Witnesses of Christ: Neo-Martyrs of the Ottoman Period, 1437-1860. St. Vlad Semi (additional copy); One Flesh-Salvation through Marriage. Ancient Faith 2013.

Giving Opportunities:

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.

In-House Food Pantry: The Food Pantry is in need of marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, fruit, and soups. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Thank you for your continued support

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 Theophany of Christ,

  (Leave-taking) of the Nativity of Christ

Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome

VARIABLE for CHOIR and PARISH 

Eisodikon (Entrance Hymn) of the Apodosis of the Nativity of Christ

From the womb before the morning star have I begotten Thee. The Lord hath sworn, and He will not repent; thou art a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Save us, O Son of God, Who art risen from the dead; who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 5

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of Sunday after the Nativity – Tone 2

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

Kontakion of the Nativity of Christ –Tone 3

On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Epistle

All those on earth worship thee and sing unto Thee: Alleluia to God, O all the earth.*

The Reading from the Second Epistle of St. Paul to St. Timothy. (4:5-8)

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

The Gospel

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

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

Thought for Today: “Beloved Christians! Nothing is more pleasant, lovelier, and sweeter to us sinners than the Gospel. More welcome than bread to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, freedom to captives and those in prison, is the Gospel to sinners who understand their misfortune. + St. Tikhon of Zadonsk +

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 

Ladies Christmas Holiday Party: Saturday, January 13 at 11am, hosted by Johanna Hsu at her home. RSVP mrsarcfide@gmail.com

Save the Date! His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY, will be visiting All Saints the first weekend in February. Please block out the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th on your calendar and prepare to spend a great weekend with our beloved Bishop. 

THIS WEEK 

Monday, January 1: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon.

Tuesday, January 2: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, January 3: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon; Readers Vespers at 6:00 pm (no Orthodoxy 101 tonight)

Thursday, January 4: 3^rd Hour Prayers at 9:00 am. 

Friday, January 5: Hours of Theophany at 9:00 am; Vesperal Liturgy for Theophany at 6:00 pm (with the Great Blessing of the Waters).

Saturday, January 6:  (No Bible Study), all-parish “dream session” with our architect and building project manager from 9-11am, Festal brunch will be served. Great Vespers at 5:00 pm; (followed by Ask Abouna); Jr. SOYO at 3:30pm; SOYO at 6:30pm.

 Sunday, January 7: Matins at9:00 am; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: William Gidney, Basil KonnersmanSt. Basil (1^st); Linda Barrett, Leanne Bissell, Neumann Jones St. Saraphim (2^nd); Juliana Barber St. Juliana (2^nd); Jennifer Rigsby, Alice Van Cleave St. Genevieve (3^rd); Johanna Hsu, Emily Wood St. Emilia (3^rd); Micah Finchum Prophet Micah (5^th).

Birthday Celebrations: Molly Alexander (31^st); Nancy Jones (31^st); Lina Tabbal (1^st); Steve Blair (2^nd); Hayden Busby (2^nd); Emily Wood (3^rd); Macrina Robertson (5^th); Sami Koutares (5^th); John Alexander jr. (5^th); Alex Koutares (6^th).

Anniversary Celebrations: Darryl and Nancy Jones (4^th).

Memory Eternal: Archpriest Michael, Dn. Sergius, Marcia, Janice, Gina, Justin.

Prayer List: Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war of Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mat. Raisa; Mary Ann; Emma (Mary Ann’s granddaughter); Bob & Bonnie Thelen;  Wes (infant with brittle bone disorder); Wes’s grandfather; Megan (lymphoma); Mark (CHF) and (caregiver) Barbara;Josiah; Vicki;Vicki’s granddaughter; Steve Crandall; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Marvin; Alice; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew (Texas/military); Isaac (Germany/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; John; Stanley; Macrina;; Anne; Allen; Linda; Marilyn; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Nino with child, Kip, Taylor with child, Erica with child.

 Coffee Hour Host: 5^th Sunday, all welcome to participate.

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

Giving Opportunities:

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.

In-House Food Pantry: The Food Pantry is in need of marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, fruit, and soups. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Thank you for your continued support

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 Nativity of Christ (Sunday of the Genealogy),

  Which Falls on Paramon (Eve) of Nativity of Christ

   Venerable Martyr Eugenia of Rome and those with her

Thought for Today: “This night gave peace to the whole world, and so, let no one threaten. This is the night of the Most Meek One; let no one be cruel!”  – St. Ephraim the Syrian-

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Epistle 

Blessed are Thou, O Lord, the God of our fathers .For Thou art justified in all that Thou hast done for us.

The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Hebrews. (11:9-10, 32-40)

Brethren, by faith Abraham sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets—who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, and put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated—of whom the world was not worthy—wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

The Gospel 

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (1:1-25)

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.  Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram, and Aram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king.  And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.  And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, Who is called Christ.  So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ were fourteen generations.  Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way.  When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.  But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call His Name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”  All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His Name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us).  When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called His Name Jesus. 

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.

VARIABLE for CHOIR and PARISH

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 The Sunday before Nativity in Tone-2

Great are the accomplishments of faith; for the three holy youths rejoiced in the fountain of flames as though at waters of rest. And the Prophet Daniel appeared a shepherd to the lions as though they were sheep. Wherefore, by their prayers, O Christ God, save our souls.

Apolytikion for the Paramon (Eve) of the Nativity in Tone -4

As the fruit of David’s seed, Mary was registered of old * with the Elder Joseph in the little town of Bethlehem, * when she conceived with a seedless and pure conception. * Behold, the time was come that she should bear her Child, * but no place was found within the inn for them; * yet the cave proved a delightful palace * for the pure Lady and Queen of all. * For Christ is born now to raise the image that had fallen aforetime.

Kontakion of Prepartion of Preparation of Christ’s Nativity –Tone 3

On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.

LOOKING AHEAD 

Looking Ahead to Theophany: We will celebrate the Hours of Theophany at 9am on Friday, January 5. Vesperal Liturgy for Theophany with the Great Blessing of the Waters will be at 6pm that evening. 

Save the Date: There will be an all-parish “dream session” with our architect and building project manager on Saturday, January 6 from 9-11am. Festal brunch will be served.  

Ladies Christmas Holiday Party: Saturday, January 13 hosted by Johanna Hsu at her home.

Save the Date! His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY, will be visiting All Saints the first weekend in February. Please block out the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th on your calendar and prepare to spend a great weekend with our beloved Bishop.  

THIS WEEK 

Today, Sunday: Great Vespers of the Nativity at 5:00 pm.

Monday, December 25: Matins at 9:00 am, Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am, for the Nativity of Christ.

Tuesday, December 26: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, December 27: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm (no Orthodoxy 101 tonight)

Thursday, December 28: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am. 

Friday, December 29: Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am.

Saturday, December 30:  No Bible Study; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm; (followed by Ask Abouna); Jr. SOYO at 3:30pm; SOYO at 6:30pm.

 Sunday, December 31: Matins at9:00 am; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am.          

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: Christopher Stroguiludis, Christmas (25^th).

Birthday Celebrations: Amber Smith (26^th); Adriana Calinescu (30^th).

Aniversary Celebrations: Bob and Nina Rogers (26^th).

Memory Eternal: Archpriest Michael, Dn. Sergius, Marcia, Janice, Gina, Justin.

Prayer List: Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war of Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mat. Raisa; Mary Ann; Emma (Mary Ann’s granddaughter); Bob & Bonnie Thelen;  Wes (infant with brittle bone disorder); Wes’s grandfather; Megan (lymphoma); Mark (CHF) and (caregiver) Barbara;Josiah; Vicki;Vicki’s granddaughter; Steve Crandall; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Marvin; Alice; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew (Texas/military); Isaac (Germany/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; John; Stanley; Macrina;; Anne; Allen; Linda; Marilyn; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Nino with child, Kip, Taylor with child, Erica with child.

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

Next week Host: 5^th Sunday, all welcome to participate.

Giving Opportunities:

The Saint Nicholas Tree is located in the fellowship hall. Gift cards for families in need may be placed on this tree between now and the Nativity. God loves a cheerful giver!

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.

In-House Food Pantry: The Food Pantry is in need of marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, fruit, and soups. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Thank you for your continued support

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 of Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

Prophet Daniel and the Three Holy Youths Ananias, Azarias and Mishael;

Dionysios of Zakynthos, the wonderworker 

Thought for Today: “God allows you to fall into temptation so that you may persistently knock on the door of His mercy and so that, from fear of afflictions, the memory of God may be implanted in your mind, and you may approach Him through prayers, in which case your heart will be sanctified by ceaseless recollection of the name of God. When you supplicate Him with faith, He will hear you, and you will learn that it is God who rescued you. Then you will understand that your Creator strengthens you and guards you.” + St. Isaac the Syrian+                

VARIABLE for CHOIR and PARISH

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 Forefathers in Tone – 2

Thou hast justified by faith the ancient Forefathers, and through them Thou hast gone before and betrothed unto Thyself the Church of the Gentiles. Let the saints, therefore, take pride in glory; for from their seed sprouted forth a noble fruit, and it was she who gave birth to Thee without seed. Wherefore, by their pleadings, O Christ God, save our souls.

Kontakion of Prepartion of Preparation of Christ’s Nativity –Tone 3

On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Epistle 

Blessed art Thou, O Lord, the God of our Fathers.

For Thou art just in all that Thou hast done for us.

The Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Colossians. (3:4-11)

Brethren, when Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.  Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: fornication, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.  On account of these, the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience.  In these you once walked, when you lived in them.  But now put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and foul talk from your mouth.  Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old nature with its practices and have put on the new nature, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator.  Here there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free man, but Christ is all, and in all.

The Gospel

The Reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (14:16-24)

The Lord spoke this parable: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’  But, one by one, they all began to make excuses.  The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’  And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’  And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’  So the servant came and reported this to his master.  Then the householder in anger said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and maimed and blind and lame.’  And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’  And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges, and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled.  For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’  For many are called, but few are chosen.”

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.

Save the Date! His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY, will be visiting All Saints the first weekend in February. Please block out the 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th on your calendar and prepare to spend a great weekend with our beloved Bishop. 

The Saint Nicholas Tree is located in the fellowship hall. Gift cards for families in need may be placed on this tree between now and the Nativity. God loves a cheerful giver! 

Gift Baskets for our Neighbors:  Teen SOYO offers their heartfelt appreciation for items and cash donated for the gift baskets for our 25 nearest neighbors!

Antiochian Village: Registration opens Sunday, January 7 at 6pm for the 2024 camping season. 

LOOKING AHEAD 

Christmas Service Schedule:

Monday, December 25: Matins and Liturgy for the Nativity of Christ 9am 

THIS WEEK 

Today, Sunday: We will celebrate Santa Lucia as she visits following the Divine Liturgy.

Monday, December 18: 6^th hour Prayers at 12 noon. 

Tuesday, December 19: Daily Orthros at 9:00 am.

Wednesday, December 20: 6^th Hour Prayers at 12 noon; Daily Vespers at 6:00 pm (followed by Orthodoxy 101)

Thursday, December 21: Daily Orthros at 9:00 am. 

Friday, December 22: Hours of Nativity at 9:00 am.

Saturday, December 23:  Bible Study at the Webb’s home at 9:00 am; Great Vespers at 5:00 pm; (followed by Ask Abouna); Jr. SOYO at 3:30pm; SOYO at 6:30pm.

 Sunday, December 24: Matins at9:00 am; Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am for Christmas Eve.

FAMILY NEWS 

Names Day Celebration: Heather SherrodRachel (17^th); Naomi Burhoe Ruth (17^th); Daniel Rigsby Prophet Daniel (17^th); David Beebe King David (17^th); Samuel Schlimpert Prophet Samuel (17^th); Elijah Guess St. Boniface (19^th).

Birthday Celebrations: Fr. Peter Jon (18^th); Laura Crandall (20^th); Griffin Finchum (21^st); Jonathon Hsu (22^nd); Nicholas Shirley, Alexandra Shirley (22^nd).

Aniversary Celebrations: Phil and Debra Campbell (23^rd).

Memory Eternal: Margie, Archpriest Michael, Dn. Sergius, Marcia, Janice.

Prayer List: Michael, Olga, Eileen, Soren, Kathy;Jan; Don and Dee; those suffering the war of Ukraine, and the Middle East; Peace talks; our nation and all nations’ leaders; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Mat. Raisa; Mary Ann; Emma (Mary Ann’s granddaughter); Bob & Bonnie Thelen;  Wes (infant with brittle bone disorder); Wes’s grandfather; Megan (lymphoma); Mark (CHF) and (caregiver) Barbara;Josiah; Vicki;Vicki’s granddaughter; Steve Crandall; Fr. Athanasius; Jack; Christopher; Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Wadia; Jayci; Patricia; Marvin; Alice; Kitsa; Apthrodite; Kim; Kristy; Dusty; Cari; Betsy; Josh; Allison; Andrew (Texas/military); Isaac (Germany/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Dn. Lawrence, Marcia; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy; Megan; John; Stanley; Macrina;; Anne; Allen; Linda; Marilyn; Mary Barger; Allison and children; Nino with child, Kip, Taylor with child, Erica with child.

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

Next week Host: Rhonda Webb with Parishioners S-Z.

Giving Opportunities:

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.

In-House Food Pantry: The Food Pantry is in need of marinara sauce, peanut butter, canned vegetables, fruit, and soups. The pantry is available to parish members as well as families and individuals in the greater Bloomington community. Thank you for your continued support

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.