The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, January 16th, 2022

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January 16, 2022
12th Sunday of Luke

 

Saints and Feasts Commemorated 

Veneration of Apostle Peter’s Precious Chains
January 16

Herod Agrippa, the grandson of Herod the Great and king of the Jews, grew wroth against the Church of Christ, and slew James, the brother of John the Evangelist. Seeing that this pleased the Jews, he took Peter also into custody and locked him up in prison, intending to keep him there until after the feast of the Passover, so that he could win the favour of the people by presenting him to them as a victim. But the Apostle was saved when he was miraculously set free by an Angel (Acts 12:1-19). The chains wherewith the Apostle was bound received from his most sacred body the grace of sanctification and healing, which is bestowed upon the faithful who draw nigh with faith.
That such sacred treasures work wonders and many healings is witnessed by the divine Scripture, where it speaks concerning Paul, saying that the Christians in Ephesus had such reverence for him, that his handkerchiefs and aprons, taken up with much reverence, healed the sick of their maladies: “So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19:12). But not only the Apostles’ clothing (which certainly touched the bodies of the sick), but even their shadow alone performed healings. On beholding this, people put their sick on stretchers and beds and brought them out into the streets that, when Peter passed by, his shadow “might overshadow some of them”(Acts 5:15). From this the Church has learned to show reverence and piety not only to the relics of their bodies, but also in the clothing of God’s Saints.

 

St. Makarios Kalogeras, hierodeacon of Patmos
January 17

 

He was born to a prosperous family on the island of Patmos. As soon as he was old enough to leave home, he attended the Patriarchal School in Constantinople, where he distinguished himself. He became a monk, then a deacon, but always refused to be ordained to the priesthood, though the Metropolitan of Nikomedia wished Makarios to be his successor. Instead, he returned to Patmos in 1713 and entered the Monastery of St John the Theologian, where he remained until his death.
Though he lived in great asceticism and constant prayer, Saint Makarios was moved by a concern for the salvation and education of the Orthodox people, who often lived in great ignorance, even of their own faith, under Ottoman rule. He established a school in a building adjacent to the monastery, and offered courses free of charge to any who could come. Modeling the curriculum on that of the Patriarchal School, he served more as a spiritual father than a worldly professor. The school grew steadily, partly due to generous contributions from a few wealthy Greek families and trade guilds in Constantinople. But students, many of them very poor, still had to pay for their own needs, and Saint Makarios used his own funds to aid the poorest of them. In addition, he secretly distributed any money that came to him personally to the poor on Patmos. The school at Patmos became famous throughout the Church, and its head became a spiritual father not only to his students but througout the Greek nation. Bishops often asked him to write homilies; about sixty of these were published in book form as The Trumpet of the Gospel, which is still widely read today by the faithful. Having greatly edified thousands while laboring tirelessly for the salvation of his soul, Saint Makarios reposed in peace in 1737.

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal First Mode
Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον Πατρὶ καὶ Πνεύματι…
Let us worship the Word, O ye faithful, praising Him that with the Father and the Spirit is co-beginningless God, Who was born of a pure Virgin that we all be saved; for He was pleased to mount the Cross in the flesh that He assumed, accepting thus to endure death.  And by His glorious rising, He also willed to resurrect the dead.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

 

Apolytikion for Veneration of the Chains of Apostle Peter in the Second Mode
Τὴν Ῥώμην μὴ λιπῶν…
Without leaving Rome, thou didst come to us by the precious chains which thou didst wear. O foremost of the Apostles.  And venerating them with faith, we pray:  By thine intercessions with God, grant us great mercy.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

 

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις…
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

 

Seasonal Kontakion in the First Mode
Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου…
Your birth sanctified a Virgin’s womb and properly blessed the hands of Symeon.  Having now come and saved us O Christ our God, give peace to Your commonwealth in troubled times and strengthen those in authority, whom You love, as only the loving One.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Narthex Press

 

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal First Mode. Psalm 11.7,1.
You, O Lord, shall keep us and preserve us.
Verse: Save me, O Lord, for the godly man has failed.

 

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter 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.

Gospel Reading

 

The reading is from Luke 17:12-19

At that time, as Jesus entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said:  “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.”  When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed.  Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’s feet, giving him thanks.  Now he was a Samaritan.  Then said Jesus: “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?  Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him: “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Memorial Prayer

Georgia Mastrogianis (40 days) daughter of Alice Aspras, mother of Chris (Amy) Nikolopoulos and Alicia (Joseph) Quinones, grandmother of Angela and Morgan, sister of Dr. Ana Aspras Steele and Emmanuel (Marilyn) Aspras.

Trisagion Prayer

Sofia Glantzis (3 years) survived by her husband Philipp, son Nicholas, daughter in law Tania, and granddaughter Stefania.

George Stringos (3 years) survived by his wife Angeliki, son Emanuel, son George (Tracey), and grandson George.

Dimitrios Gigiras (5 years) survived by his daughters Evangelia Gigiras and Jane Lafata, grandchildren Patrick, Gregory and Andrew, great granddaughter Thaleia, siblings, nieces and nephews.

Constantine Anastasiou (18 years) survived by his wife Toni, his children Father Savvas and Jason, and his grandchildren Fotini, Antonios and Isabella.

Demetrios Kapakos (41 years) survived by his sons Chris (Mona) and Gus (Shelby), his daughters Stavroula (Nick) Ferrarese and Efstathia (Ted) Stout, and his grandchildren James Stout and Sarah Stout.

Antigone Pappas (5 months), Plato Pappas (7 months), Elias Asras (30 years), Anthony Aspras (37 years) beloved family of Alice Aspras.

 

 

 

Announcements

Coffee Hour

In loving memory of her daughter Georgia Mastrogianis, Alice Aspras is hosting today’s coffee hour.

 

Youth Programs News

Dear Parents,

Sunday School & Dance are canceled until 1/30/22.

When classes resume on 1/30/22, we will continue to follow the attendance policy of dancers attending both Sunday School and Dance, in order for dancers to be allowed to perform at a Spring Celebration.  The date of the celebration is to be determined.

 

Loving Stitches News

 

Due to the high number of Covid cases, we will be canceling our meeting for January.
Hopefully we can meet up in February.
Please stay happy, healthy, & safe!

 

Celebration of Learning Luncheon

The Celebration of Learning luncheon planned for January 23, 2022 is being rescheduled. The new date will be announced soon.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

 

Philoptochos News

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

Hellenic Cultural Society of South Florida 

Do you love reading and discussing old and new ideas about passion and rage, greatness and pride?

You are cordially invited to join our Book Club as we discuss the play “Medea” by Euripides. The play was written in 431 BC and was first produced in Athens at the city’s Dionysia Festival. It is one of the great plays of the Western literary canon and one of the most frequently performed Greek tragedies in the late 20th century. The play, Medea’s story of betrayal by her husband is a remarkable study of injustice and ruthless revenge. Special appearance: an actor will read a short passage and a solo dance will be presented.

You can purchase the book at the Hall, at Barnes and Noble or Amazon for $6 or download it for free.

Due to the high numbers of Omicron cases, we will meet online on Saturday January 29th at 12:30pm .
We are looking forward to seeing you.

For more information please contact Stavroula Christodoulou (954) 899-8455 or Malvina Currie (954) 993-7456 malvinacurrie@gmail.com

To purchase the book in English

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/medea-euripides/1116704718

https://us.amazon.com/Medea-Euripides/dp/B099C8R1TQ

Free
https://www.gutenberg.org/files/35451/35451-h/35451-h.htm
http://classics.mit.edu/Euripides/medea.html

Free in Greek
https://www.openbook.gr/mideia/

This event is part of the Book Club Series 2022 Hellenic Cultural Society of South Florida.

 

St. Demetrios Church in the National Herald

Read the article regarding the Epiphany Celebration.

https://www.thenationalherald.com/feast-of-the-epiphany-celebrated-in-west-palm-beach-fl

Read the article regarding Fr. Peter’s 10 year anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood.

https://www.thenationalherald.com/rev-fr-peter-zougras-celebrates-10-years-in-the-priesthood/?fbclid=IwAR0XsawZWJXQge0iJUXsbsjJnWLvIpnHtJCUNnnuhGHaEVgRSFDVAId59_k

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Calander

 

Sunday           1/16 
9:00am/10:00am            Orthros/Divine Liturgy

No Sunday School
No Dance Practice

1:00pm-2:00pm              Bible Study

Monday       1/17
4:15pm-6:00pm           Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church
6:30pm-7:30pm           Intermediate Modern Greek -Zoom

Tuesday      1/18 
7:00pm                        Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Thursday     1/20           
7:00pm                        Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Sunday        1/23
9:00am/10:00am            Orthros/Divine Liturgy

No Sunday School
No Dance Practice

1:00pm-2:00pm              Bible Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, January 9th, 2022

/in , /by

 

Epiphany Celebration

The South Florida District Epiphany Celebration is Saturday, January 8, 2022
at
St. Catherine Church ~ 110 Southern Blvd ~ West Palm Beach.
Orthros at 9AM ~ Archieratical Divine Liturgy at 10AM ~ Cross Dive at 12PM ~ Luncheon to follow

 

 

January 9, 2022
Sunday after Epiphany

 

Venerable Eustratius the Wonderworker

 

He was born to pious parents in Tarsia in Bithynia. At the age of twenty he entered monastic life at the Monastery of Agaures near his home. There he became a model of prayer, ascesis and zeal for holiness — he possessed nothing but the cloak he wore, and did not even have his own cell, choosing instead to sleep on the bare ground. When he slept he would not lie on his back or his left side, but always on his right side. In church, he stood repeating ‘Lord, have mercy!’ to himself throughout the services. He was ordained to the priesthood, and in time was made abbot of the community. But just at that time, Leo the Armenian became Emperor and revived the iconoclast heresy. The monks of Agaures, who held to the Orthodox Faith, scattered to caves and forests to escape persecution. Eustratius himself was imprisoned for a time, and was only able to re-gather the community and resume its direction when Leo died and Orthodoxy was restored in 842.

As abbot, Eustratius continued to live as the humblest of the brethren, spending the day sharing in their manual labor, and most of the night in prayer and prostrations. He often traveled among the dependencies of his large monastery to offer counsel and encouragement to the brethren. While traveling he would often give his coat or even his horse to anyone in need whom he met on the way. Once he gave the monastery’s only ox to a peasant who had lost his own. Once, on a visit to Constantinople, he was given a large sum of money by the Emperor for the monastery; on the way back he distributed all of it to the poor. Once, on the road, he met a man who had despaired because of his sins and was about to hang himself. The Saint took the man’s hand and said ‘My child, may the weight of your sins lie on me from now on. On the day of Judgment, I will answer for them instead of you. Only throw away this rope and hope in God.’

During his own life, Saint Eustratius performed countless miracles by his prayers: healing the sick, quenching fires, raising the dead. He reposed in peace in Constantinople at the age of ninety-five, having spent seventy-five years in monastic life.

Philip, Metropolitan of Moscow

Our Father among the Saints Philip, Metropolitan of Moscow, was born in 1507 of noble family, and served for a time in the royal court. While still a young man, he secretly left Moscow and entered Solovki Monastery in the north, about the year 1538, a little over a hundred years after its founding.  Because of his spiritual stature he was chosen against his will to succeed Abbot Alexis in 1548. As abbot, Philip was a great builder and beautifier of Solovki Monastery. He laid the foundations for the Cathedral of the Transfiguration, constructed cells, hermitages, and a hospital for the monks and for pilgrims, established a cattle yard on one of the islands, drained swamps and connected waterways by a series of canals and damns, built a mill and various workshops, and even invented ingenious machines and implements to help the monks in their work. His fame spread, and in 1566, by the will of Tsar Ivan IV, he was raised to the rank of Metropolitan of Moscow.

Tsar Ivan the Terrible revered Philip, even as Herod had revered Saint John the Baptist, and he had been a generous benefactor of Solovki Monastery. But because the Tsar had established the oprichnina, a state within a state, giving power to the oprichniki, who used it to oppress and rob the innocent, Philip told him the he could not be Metropolitan if the Tsar suffered the oprichniki to continue in power.  This angered the Tsar, he told Philip that it was not for him to interfere in matters of state, and many hierarchs prevailed upon Philip to accept the Metropolitan’s throne. But as the horrors committed by the oprichniki grew worse-thefts, false accusations, murders, and all manner of injustice and rapacity, with the knowledge of the Sovereign- Saint Philip could not remain silent. He rebuked the Tsar once and again for the reign of terror that he had brought upon his own people. The Tsar warned him to hold his peace and bless him to do as he wished.  The Metropolitan answered that his silence brought sin upon the Sovereign. The Tsar threatened him with his wrath, and told him to resign his throne if he were not willing to comply. Saint Philip answered that he had not sought the Metropolitan’s throne, and it was the Tsar who had deprived him of his hermitage on Solovki; but now the pastoral burden was upon him, he would not remain silent when the canons of the Church were broken.

The more the Tsar threatened Philip with his wrath, the more the holy hierarch stood fast and threatened the Tsar with judgment of God; Philip alone had the courage to rebuke the Tsar openly and oppose his iniquity. Finally the Tsar, finding false witnesses against Philip in his own monastery on Solovki, held a council against him in early November, 1568; the Saint had to endure the persecution of the Tsar who had torn him from his beloved monastery, the betrayal of his fellow hierarchs, and the slanders of his own spiritual children. He was imprisoned in Moscow, but because of the love of the people for him the Tsar feared him even in prison, and he was transferred to a monastery in Tver, where he spent a year in great hardships and continual prayer. On December 23, 1569, a royal messenger came, asking the Metropolitan’s blessing for the Tsar’s expedition to Novgorod. Saint Philip told him to do that which he came to do, then raised his hands in prayer to God. The Tsar’s messenger fell upon him and suffocated the holy hierarch with a pillow. In 1591 his relics were transferred to Solovki, and in 1652 to the Dormition Cathedral in Moscow; many miracles were wrought through his holy relics.

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Fourth Mode
Τὸ φαιδρὸν τῆς Ἀναστάσεως κήρυγμα…
Having learned the joyful proclamation of the Resurrection from the Angel, and having cast off the ancestral condemnation, the women disciples of the Lord spake to the Apostles exultantly:  Death is despoiled and Christ God is risen, granting great mercy to the world.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Afterfeast of Theophany in the First Mode
Ἐν Ἰορδάνῃ βαπτιζομένου σου Κύριε…
When Thou wast baptized in the Jordan, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was made manifest; for the voice of the Father bare witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son.  And the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the certainty of the word.  O Christ our God, Who hast appeared and hast enlightened the world, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις…
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Seasonal Kontakion in the Fourth Mode
Ἐπεφάνης σήμερον τὴ οἰκουμένη…
You appeared to the world today, and Your light, O Lord, has left its mark upon us. With fuller understanding we sing to You: “You came, You were made manifest, the unapproachable light.”
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Narthex Press

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. First Mode. Psalm 32.22,1.
Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us.
Verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter 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.

Gospel Reading

The reading is from 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 Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulun 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.”

 

 

 

 

 

Announcements

Youth Programs News

Parents – based on the current Covid positivity rate of over 20% in Broward County, be advised that any children who have cold symptoms will not be admitted to any of the youth programs. Additionally, masks are strongly suggested. Thank you.

 

It is with regret that we announce that this year’s festival has been cancelled.  This decision was made in the interest of public health and for well being concerns.  We thank all the volunteers who had been tirelessly working planning the festival and all those who had signed up to work the festival.

 

Celebration of Learning Luncheon

The Celebration of Learning luncheon planned for January 23, 2022 is being rescheduled. The new date will be announced soon.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

 

 

Philoptochos News
Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

 

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

 

 

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Saturday      1/8   
9:00am                         Epiphany celebration
West Palm Beach

1:00pm-5:00pm            HDF practice in the Hall

Sunday           1/9 
9:00am/10:00am            Orthros/Divine Liturgy

After Communion           Sunday School

12:45pm-1:30pm            Jr. Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
12:45pm-1:30pm            Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
1:00pm-2:00pm              Sr. Palazakia @ ArtServe

1:00pm -2:00pm             Kamaria  @ ArtServe

2:30pm -3:30pm             HDF in the Hall

1:00pm-2:00pm              Bible Study

Monday       1/10
4:15pm-6:00pm           Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church
6:30pm-7:30pm           Intermediate Modern Greek -Zoom

Tuesday      1/11 
7:00pm                        Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Wednesday  1/12
6:30pm                        Daughters of Penelope

Thursday     1/13           
7:00pm                        Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Sunday        1/16
9:00am/10:00am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy

After Communion           Sunday School

12:45pm-1:30pm            Jr. Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
12:45pm-1:30pm            Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
1:00pm-2:00pm              Sr. Palazakia @ ArtServe

1:00pm -2:00pm             Kamaria  @ ArtServe

2:30pm -3:30pm             HDF in the Hall

1:00pm-2:00pm              Bible Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, January 2nd, 2022

/in , /by

 

Upcoming Feast Day Services 

New Year’s Day 
Join us, Saturday, January 1, 2022 as we celebrate the Feast of Saint Basil.
Orthros 9:00am ~ Divine Liturgy 10:00am

Holy Theophany/Epiphany 
Thursday, January 6, 2022
Orthros 9:00am ~ Divine Liturgy and Blessing of the Water 10:00am

Epiphany Celebration
The South Florida District Epiphany Celebration is Saturday, January 8, 2022
at
St. Catherine Church ~ 110 Southern Blvd ~ West Palm Beach.
Orthros at 9AM ~ Archieratical Divine Liturgy at 10AM ~ Cross Dive at 12PM ~ Luncheon to follow

 

January 2, 2022
Sunday before Epiphany

 


Seraphim the Wonderworker of Sarov

 

Saint Seraphim was born in the town of Kursk in 1759. From tender childhood he was under the protection of the most holy Mother of God, who, when he was nine years old, appeared to him in a vision, and through her icon of Kursk, healed him from a grave sickness from which he had not been expected to recover. At the age of nineteen he entered the monastery of Sarov, where he amazed all with his obedience, his lofty asceticism, and his great humility. In 1780 the Saint was stricken with a sickness which he manfully endured for three years, until our Lady the Theotokos healed him, appearing to him with the Apostles Peter and John. He was tonsured a monk in 1786, being named for the holy Hieromartyr Seraphim, Bishop of Phanarion (Dec. 4), and was ordained deacon a year later. In his unquenchable love for God, he continually added labours to labours, increasing in virtue and prayer with titan strides. Once, during the Divine Liturgy of Holy and Great Thursday, he was counted worthy of a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who appeared encompassed by the heavenly hosts. After this dread vision, he gave himself over to greater labours.  In 1794, Saint Seraphim took up the solitary life in a cell in the forest. This period of extreme asceticism lasted some fifteen years, until 1810. It was at this time that he took upon himself one of the greatest feats of his life. Assailed with despondency and a storm of contrary thoughts raised by the enemy of our salvation, the Saint passed a thousand nights on a rock, continuing in prayer until God gave him complete victory over the enemy. On another occasion, he was assaulted by robbers, who broke his chest and his head with their blows, leaving him almost dead. Here again, he began to recover after an appearance of the most holy Theotokos, who came to him with the Apostles Peter and John, and pointing to Saint Seraphim, uttered those awesome words, “This is one of my kind.”  In 1810, at the age of fifty; weakened with his more than human struggles, Saint Seraphim returned to the monastery for the third part of his ascetical labours, in which he lived as a recluse until 1825. For the first five years of his reclusion, he spoke to no one at all, and little is known of this period. After five years, he began receiving visitors little by little, giving counsel and consolation to ailing souls. In 1825, the most holy Theotokos appeared to the Saint and revealed to him that it was pleasing to God that he fully end his seclusion; from this time the number of people who came to see him grew daily. It was also at the command of the holy Virgin that he undertook the spiritual direction of the Diveyevo Convent. He healed bodily ailments, foretold things to come, brought hardened sinners to repentance, and saw clearly the secrets of the heart of those who came to him. Through his utter humility and childlike simplicity, his unrivalled ascetical travails, and his angel-like love for God, he ascended to the holiness and greatness of the ancient God-bearing Fathers and became like Anthony for Egypt, the physician for the whole Russian land. In all, the most holy Theotokos appeared to him twelve times in his life. The last was on Annunciation, 1831, to announce to him that he would soon, enter into his rest. She appeared to him accompanied by twelve virgins-martyrs and monastic saints-with Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Theologian. With a body ailing and broken from innumerable hardships, and an unspotted soul shining with the light of Heaven, the Saint lived less than two years after this, falling asleep in peace on January 2, 1833, chanting Paschal hymns. On the night of his repose, the righteous Philaret of the Glinsk Hermitage beheld his soul ascending to Heaven in light. Because of the universal testimony to the singular holiness of his life, and the seas of miracles that he performed both in life and after death, his veneration quickly spread beyond the boundaries of the Russian Empire to every corner of the earth.

 

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Third Mode
Εὐφραινέσθω τὰ οὐράνια…
Let the Heavens rejoice; let earthly things be glad; for the Lord hath wrought might with His arm, He hath trampled upon death by death.  The first-born of the dead hath He become.  From the belly of Hades hath He delivered us, and hath granted great mercy to the world.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Forfeast of Epiphany in the Fourth Mode
Ἑτοιμάζου Ζαβουλῶν…
Be thou ready, Zabulon; prepare thyself, O Nephthalim.  River Jordan, stay thy course and skip for gladness to receive the Sovereign Master, Who cometh now to be baptized.  O Adam, be thou glad with our first mother, Eve; hide not as ye did of old in Paradise.  Seeing you naked, He hath appeared now to clothe you in the first robe again.  Christ hath appeared, for He truly willeth to renew all creation.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις…
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Seasonal Kontakion in the Fourth Mode
Ἐν τοῖς ῥείθροις σήμερον τοῦ Ἰορδάνου…
In the running waters of the Jordan River, on this day the Lord of all crieth to John:  Be not afraid and hesitate not to baptize Me, for I am come to save Adam, the first-formed man.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal Second Mode. Psalm 27.9,1.
O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.
Verse: To you, O Lord, I have cried, O my God.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to Timothy 4:5-8

TIMOTHY, my son, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil 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.

Gospel Reading

The reading is from 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 your face, who shall prepare your way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’ John was baptizing 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.”

Trisagion Prayer

Mitchell James Thermis (1 year) husband of Loretta, father of Albert, brother of Sophia Thermis, and uncle of 4 generations of nieces and nephews.

Markos Hatzikostantis (2 years) survived by his wife Dina, his children Michael and Antonia, and his grandchildren Konstantina, Theodosios, Michael and Gabrielle.

Orlando Haralambos Perez ( 8 years) survived by his daughter Nicole Perez and by Michael Valverde.

 

 

 

 

Coffee Hour

In memory of her husband Markos Hatzikostantis, Dina Hatzikostantis has sponsored the coffee hour.

Parish Vasilopita

This Sunday we will cut the traditional Vasilopita.  Please give generously to benefit St. Basil’s Academy, one of the oldest institutions of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.  St. Basil’s offers a safe home and education to orphans and children whose parents are unable to care for them.

 

FESTIVAL Volunteers 2022…WELCOME BACK one of ST DEMETRIOS’ BEST FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES & FUNDRAISERS!  EACH of YOU make this all possible.
Volunteers are needed to assist in Food Prep *  Setting up the festival grounds * Cashiers * Bakery * Volunteer Table and so much more…Come see us in the narthex and SIGN UP TODAY!

 

HDF News

Our Hellenic Dance Festival Team luncheon planned for today, to help raise funds for their upcoming competition in Orlando, has been POSTPONED to a later date.

 

Philoptochos News

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

 

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Sunday         1/2 
9:00am/10:00am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy
Parish Vasilopita
No Sunday School
No Dance practice
No HDF practice

1:00pm-2:00pm           Bible Study

Monday     1/3
4:15pm-6:00pm           Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church
6:30pm-7:30pm           Intermediate Modern Greek -Zoom

Tuesday    1/4 
7:00pm                        Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Thursday   1/6           Holy Theophany
9:00am/10:00am        Orthros/Divine Liturgy/
Blessing of the Water

7:00pm                      Adv. Modern Greek-Zoom

Saturday    1/8   
9:00am                        Epiphany celebration
West Palm Beach

1:00pm-5:00pm           HDF practice in the Hall

Sunday        1/9
9:00am/10:00am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy

After Communion         Sunday School

12:45pm-1:30pm            Jr. Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
12:45pm-1:30pm            Palazakia
Upstairs classrooms
1:00pm-2:00pm              Sr. Palazakia @ ArtServe

1:00pm -2:00pm             Kamaria  @ ArtServe

2:30pm -3:30pm             HDF in the Hall

1:00pm-2:00pm              Bible Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 26th, 2021

/in , /by

 

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Worship at St. Demetrios Church
Join us on Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24, 2021 as we celebrate the Nativity.
Orthros 6:00pm ~ Divine Liturgy 7:00pm

December 26, 2021
Sunday after the Nativity

 

On the Sunday that falls on or immediately after the twenty-sixth of this month, we make commemoration of Saints Joseph, the Betrothed of the Virgin; David, the Prophet and King; and James, the Brother of God.  When there is no Sunday within this period, we celebrate this commemoration on the 26th.

Saint Joseph (whose name means “one who increases”) was the son of Jacob, and the son-in-law – and hence, as it were, the son – of Eli (who was also called Eliakim or Joachim), who was the father of Mary the Virgin (Matt. 1:16; Luke 3:23). He was of the tribe of Judah, of the family of David, an inhabitant of Nazareth, a carpenter by Trade, and advanced in age when, by God’s good will, he was betrothed to the Virgin, that he might minister to the great mystery of God’s dispensation in the flesh by protecting her, providing for her, and being known as her husband so that she, being a virgin, would not suffer reproach when she was found to be with child. Joseph had been married before his betrothal to our Lady; they who are called Jesus’ “brethren and sisters” (Matt. 13:55-56) are the children of Joseph by his first marriage. From Scripture, we know that Saint Joseph lived at least until the Twelfth year after the birth of Christ (Luke 2:41-52); according to the tradition of the Fathers, he reposed before the beginning of the public ministry of Christ.

The child of God and ancestor of God, David, the great Prophet after Moses, sprang from the tribe of Judah. He was the son of Jesse, and was born in Bethlehem (whence it is called the City of David), in the year 1085 before Christ. While yet a youth, at the command of God he was anointed secretly by the Prophet Samuel to be the second King of the Israelites, while Saul – who had already been deprived of divine grace – was yet living. In the thirtieth year of his life, when Saul had been slain in battle, David was raised to the dignity of King, first, by his own tribe, and then by all the Israelite people, and he reigned for forty years. Having lived seventy years, he reposed in 1015 before Christ, having proclaimed beforehand that his son Solomon was to be the successor to the throne.

The sacred history has recorded not only the grace of the Spirit that dwelt in him from his youth, his heroic exploits in war, and his great piety towards God, but also his transgressions and failings as a man. Yet his repentance was greater than his transgresssions, and his love for God fervent and exemplary; so highly did God honour this man, that when his son Solomon sinned, the Lord told him that He would not rend the kingdom in his lifetime “for David thy father’s sake” (III Kings 12:12). Of The Kings of Israel, Jesus the Son of Sirach testifies, “All, except David and Hezekias and Josias, were defective” (Ecclus. 49:4). The name David means “beloved.”

His melodious Psalter is the foundation of all the services of the Church; there is not one service that is not filled with Psalms and psalmic verses. It was the means whereby old Israel praised God, and was used by the Apostles and the Lord Himself. It is so imbued with the spirit of prayer that the monastic fathers of all ages have used it as their trainer and teacher for their inner life of converse with God. Besides eloquently portraying every state and emotion of the soul before her Maker, the Psalter is filled with prophecies of the coming of Christ. It foretells His Incarnation, “He bowed the heavens and came down” (Psalm 17:9), His Baptism in the Jordan, “The waters saw Thee, O God, The waters saw Thee and were afraid” (76:15), His Crucifixion in its details, “They have pierced My hands and My feet …. They have parted My garments amongst themselves, and for My vesture have they cast lots” (21:16, 18). “For My thirst they gave Me vinegar to drink” (68:26), His descent into Hades, “For Thou wilt not abandon My soul in Hades, nor wilt Thou suffer Thy Holy One to see corruption” (15:10) and Resurrection, “Let God arise and let His enemies be scattered” (67:1). His Ascension, “God is gone up in jubilation” (46:5), and so forth.

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Second Mode
Ὅτε κατῆλθες πρὸς τὸν θάνατον…
When Thou didst descend unto death, O Life Immortal, then didst Thou slay Hades with the lightning of Thy Divinity.  And when Thou didst also raise the dead out of the nethermost depths, all the powers in the Heavens cried out:  O Life-giver, Christ our God, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Afterfeast of the Nativity in the Fourth Mode
Ἡ γέννησίς σου Χριστὲ ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν…
Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shined the light of knowledge upon the world; for thereby they that worshipped the stars were instructed by a star to worship Thee, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know Thee, the Dayspring from on high.  O Lord, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Sunday after Nativity in the Second Mode
Εὐαγγελίζου Ἰωσήφ…
O Joseph, proclaim the wonders to David, the ancestor of God.  Thou hast seen a Virgin great with child; thou hast given glory with the shepherds; thou hast worshipped with the Magi; and thou hast been instructed through an Angel.  Entreat Christ God to save our souls.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον…
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 Reading

Prokeimenon. Fourth Mode. Psalm 67.35,26.
God is wonderful among his saints.
Verse: Bless God in the congregations.

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 Reading

The reading is from Matthew 2:13-23

When the wise men departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.”Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaos reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

 

 

Memorial Prayer

 

Zaharia Haralambis (16 years) survived by his wife Clara, children Michael, Nicholas, John, and Maria, 12 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Helen Kappas (40 days) survived by her son Tom (Joanne) and family.

Trisagion Prayer

Stella Vlahos (26 years) survived by her daughter Mantha Mehallis, grandson Spero (Rocio), great grandson Lazaro, and great granddaughter Phoenix Rose.

 

 

 

Coffee Hour

In memory of her mother Catherine Kourakos, Stella Androutsopoulos has sponsored the coffee hour.

 

FESTIVAL Volunteers 2022…WELCOME BACK one of ST DEMETRIOS’ BEST FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES & FUNDRAISERS!  EACH of YOU make this all possible.
Volunteers are needed to assist in Food Prep *  Setting up the festival grounds * Cashiers * Bakery * Volunteer Table and so much more…Come see us in the narthex and SIGN UP TODAY!

 

In Search of…

As we are preparing for the festival, we are in need of full size disposable aluminium pans.  Our food service distributor has informed us that there is a shortage.  If you are out shopping and see these large pans (turkey roaster pans will also do), please buy them and submit your receipt for reimbursement. Thank you!

HDF News

SAVE THE DATE: Our Hellenic Dance Festival Team will be hosting a luncheon on Sunday, 1/2/22, to help raise funds for their upcoming competition in Orlando, during Martin Luther King weekend. They will also be performing their dance suites so please join us! The money raised will be used to help defray the cost for the families traveling to represent St. Demetrios.

 

Philoptochos News

Visiting Angels is a ministry of Philoptochos which calls and visits those in nursing homes, or assisted living facilities or who are confined to their homes.  If you know someone who would appreciate a call or visit, please email philoptochos@stdemetrios.org or give the information to Paula Kirifides or Helen Fronimakis.

 

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Friday, December 24                                                              Eve of the Nativity of Christ

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                               6:00PM/7:00PM

Sunday, December 26

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                               9:00AM/10:00AM

Bereavement Support Group                                                   After Divine Liturgy

No Sunday School
No Dance practice
No HDF practice
Saturday, January 1                                                                Saint Basil the Great

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday, January 2 

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Luncheon  To benefit the HDF team                                         After Divine Liturgy

No Sunday School
No Dance practice
No HDF practice

Bible Study                                                                               1:00PM – 2:00PM

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 19th, 2021

/in , /by

 

Let’s Celebrate!

December 19, 2021
Sunday before the Nativity

On the Sunday that occurs on or immediately after the eighteenth of this month, we celebrate all those who from ages past have been well-pleasing to God, beginning from Adam even unto Joseph the Betrothed of the Most Holy Theotokos, according to genealogy, as the Evangelist Luke hath recorded historically (Luke 3:23-38); we also commemorate the Prophets and Prophetesses, and especially the Prophet Daniel and the Holy Three Children.

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

 

Aglaia the Righteous of Rome

 

Saint Aglaida (Aglaia) was a rich Roman woman who had an immoral relationship with her slave St. Boniface.Tiring of their way of life, both discovered Christianity as a meaningful way. Aglaida decided to send him on an errand to collect holy relics. Finding upon arrival at Tarsus that the authorities were torturing Christians, he openly declared himself to be a Christian. His own body constituted the relics that were brought back to Aglaida, who in turn became a Christian. The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates both of them on 19 December.

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the First Mode
Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων
Although the stone was sealed by the Jews, and the soldiers guarded Your most pure body, You arose on the third day, O Savior, giving life to the world. For this reason, the heavenly powers cried out to you, O Giver of Life: Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ! Glory to Your kingdom! Glory to Your dispensation, only Lover of Mankind!
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

Apolytikion for Forefeast of the Nativity in the Fourth Mode
Ετοιμάζου Βηθλεέμ, ήνοικται πάσιν η Εδέμ…
Be thou ready, Bethlehem, Eden hath opened unto all. Ephratha, prepare thyself, for now, behold, the Tree of life hath blossomed forth in the cave from the Holy Virgin. Her womb hath proved a true spiritual Paradise, wherein the divine and saving Tree is found, and as we eat thereof we shall all live, and shall not die as did Adam. For Christ is born now to raise the image that had fallen aforetime.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Sunday before Nativity in the Second Mode
Μεγάλα τὰ τῆς πίστεως κατορθώματα! ἐν τῇ πηγὴ τῆς φλογός…
Great are the achievements of faith!  In the fountain of flame, as by the water of rest, the Three Holy Children rejoiced.  And the Prophet Daniel proved a shepherd of lions as of sheep.  By their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις …
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον…
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 Reading

Prokeimenon. Fourth Mode. Daniel 3.26,27.
Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers.
Verse: For you are just in all you have done.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter 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 foundation, 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, put foreign armies to flight.  Women received their dead by resurrection.  Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life.  Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment.  They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated – of whom the world was not worthy – wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

Gospel Reading

The reading is from 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 Salathiel, and Salathiel 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 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 commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.

 

 

Memorial Prayer

 

Catherine Kourakos (40 days)  survived by daughters Stella Androutsopoulos and Venetia Kourakos, grandchildren Catherine Wagner and Peter Kourakos, and great grandchildren.

Theodore P. Mavrick  (16 years) survived by sons Nick and Peter Mavrick, and by grandchildren Natasha, Peter E., and Gabriel.

Trisagion Prayer

Thomas Nicholas (40 days) of Bowie, MD. Son of the late Theodore “Ted” Nicholas.  He is survived by his wife Ellen, sister Annemarie (Jim), and many other relatives and friends.

Georgia Micklas (4 years) survived by her children Robert Micklas, and Mary (Kenneth) Oxios, 4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Baby Blessing

Katerina Petosa and Bruce Bechtel present Joseph William Bechtel for the traditional 40 day baby blessing.

 

 

Coffee Hour

In memory of their father Theodore P. Mavrick, Nick and Peter Mavrick have sponsored the coffee hour.

 

Archangel Michael Award Ceremony

 

On Sunday, December 12, the Parish Council presented the year 2021 Archangel Michael Award to Paula Kirifides and Apostolos Mihail Velisarios.

Paula Kirifides
Paula was a high school English teacher for 40 years and has three daughters, whom she and her husband Larry raised at St. Demetrios.
From 1991 to about 2018, Paula was primarily involved with religious education.  She served as a Sunday school teacher and principal of the Sunday school, organized summer Bible school programs and the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, and was a member of the Education, Youth, and Culture Committee (EYCC).
Some years she gave church tours during the festival and occasionally facilitated teacher and youth advisor education sessions through EYCC. Also, Paula helped organize the Gari Paticopoulos Library.
In 2019, she was elected Philoptochos president and has been enjoying working with the ladies and organizing their activities.

Apostolos Mihail Velisarios
Apostolos Mihail Velisarios was born in Kalymnos, Greece.
As a young child, attending church and spending summers with his aunt, a nun at the Monastery on the beautiful island of Samos, he developed a deep love for God and His Holy Church.
Upon joining St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Apostolos was inspired by the many kindhearted and hardworking parishioners who donated their time and resources, to do the same.
He is truly grateful for all the many blessings in his life, including the opportunity to serve our beloved Church and community in any way possible.

The Archangel Michael Feast was prayerfully conceived by His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios as the annual double feast of the Metropolis family. Since 1998, the Metropolis family comes together in Atlanta on the weekend of, prior to or following the November 8th Feast day of the Archangels
Michael and Gabriel. It is to honor and celebrate our Patron Saint and Protector, and the lives of two dedicated members from each parish. The two members who are being recognized from each parish epitomize the fundamental nature of our Orthodox Christian journey to Theosis: the loving spirit and generous commitment of a Christ-centered life. Thus by honoring these individuals, we are by extension, celebrating and giving thanks for all the devout, faithful people in our Metropolis family who give their gifts and time without hesitation. 

 

FESTIVAL Volunteers 2022…WELCOME BACK one of ST DEMETRIOS’ BEST FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES & FUNDRAISERS!  EACH of YOU make this all possible.
Volunteers are needed to assist in Food Prep *  Setting up the festival grounds * Cashiers * Bakery * Volunteer Table and so much more…Come see us in the narthex and SIGN UP TODAY!

 

In Search of…

As we are preparing for the festival, we are in need of full size disposable aluminium pans.  Our food service distributor has informed us that there is a shortage.  If you are out shopping and see these large pans (turkey roaster pans will also do), please buy them and submit your receipt for reimbursement. Thank you!

HDF News

SAVE THE DATE: Our Hellenic Dance Festival Team will be hosting a luncheon on Sunday, 1/2/22, to help raise funds for their upcoming competition in Orlando, during Martin Luther King weekend. They will also be performing their dance suites so please join us! The money raised will be used to help defray the cost for the families traveling to represent St. Demetrios.

 

Philoptochos News

Visiting Angels is a ministry of Philoptochos which calls and visits those in nursing homes, or assisted living facilities or who are confined to their homes.  If you know someone who would appreciate a call or visit, please email philoptochos@stdemetrios.org or give the information to Paula Kirifides or Helen Fronimakis.

 

Philoptochos is sponsoring an evening of fun entertainment!  A few tickets are available for the BeeGee’s Salute Concert at The Parker (Parker Playhouse), 707N. 8th Street, St. Lauderdale on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 8:00 pm.  Price is $60 for Orchestra seats.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.  See Athena Loucas or Paula Kirifides for any questions.

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Sunday, December 19

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                               9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:00PM – 3:00PM
@ ArtServe

Monday, December 20

Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church            4:15PM-6:00PM

Intermediate Modern Greek  -Zoom                                         6:30PM-7:30PM

Tuesday, December 21

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Thursday, December 23

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Friday, December 24                                                           Eve of the Nativity of Christ

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                              6:00PM/7:00PM

Saturday, December 25                                                      Holy Nativity

Sunday, December 26   

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

No Sunday School
No Dance practice
No HDF practice

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 12th, 2021

/in , /by

 

 

December 12, 2021
111thSunday of Luke

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

 

On the Sunday that occurs on or immediately after the eleventh of this month, we commemorate Christ’s forefathers according to the flesh, both those that came before the Law, and those that lived after the giving of the Law.
Special commemoration is made of the Patriarch Abraham, to whom the promise was first given, when God said to him, “In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed” (Gen. 22:18).  This promise was given some two thousand years before Christ, when Abraham was seventy-five years of age.  God called him and commanded him to forsake his country, parents, and kinsmen, and to depart to the land of the Canaanites.  When he arrived there, God told him, “I will give this land to thy seed” (Gen. 12:7); for this cause, that land was called the “Promised Land,” which later became the country of the Hebrew people, and which is also called Palestine by the historians.  There, after the passage of twenty-four years, Abraham received God’s law concerning circumcision.  In the one hundredth year of his life, when Sarah was in her ninetieth year, they became the parents of Isaac.  Having lived 175 years altogether, he reposed in peace, a venerable elder full of days.

 

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

Spyridon the Wonderworker of Trymithous
Commemorated on December 12

 

Spyridon, the God-bearing Father of the Church, the great defender of Corfu and the boast of all the Orthodox, had Cyprus as his homeland. He was simple in manner and humble of heart, and was a shepherd of sheep. When he was joined to a wife, he begat of her a daughter whom they named Irene. After his wife’s departure from this life, he was appointed Bishop of Trimythus, and thus he became also a shepherd of rational sheep. When the First Ecumenical Council was assembled in Nicaea, he also was present, and by means of his most simple words stopped the mouths of the Arians who were wise in their own conceit. By the divine grace which dwelt in him, he wrought such great wonders that he received the surname ‘Wonderworker.” So it is that, having tended his flock piously and in a manner pleasing to God, he reposed in the Lord about the year 350, leaving to his country his sacred relics as a consolation and source of healing for the faithful.
About the middle of the seventh century, because of the incursions made by the barbarians at that time, his sacred relics were taken to Constantinople, where they remained, being honoured by the emperors themselves. But before the fall of Constantinople, which took place on May 29, 1453, a certain priest named George Kalokhairetes, the parish priest of the church where the Saint’s sacred relics, as well as those of Saint Theodora the Empress, were kept, took them away on account of the impending peril. Travelling by way of Serbia, he came as far as Arta in Epirus, a region in Western Greece opposite to the isle of Corfu. From there, while the misfortunes of the Christian people were increasing with every day, he passed over to Corfu about the year 1460.  The relics of Saint Theodora were given to the people of Corfu; but those of Saint Spyridon remain to this day, according to the rights of inheritance, the most precious treasure of the priest’s own descendants, and they continue to be a staff for the faithful in Orthodoxy, and a supernatural wonder for those that behold him; for even after the passage of 1,500 years, they have remained incorrupt, and even the flexibility of his flesh has been preserved. Truly wondrous is God in His Saints! (Ps. 67:3 5)

 

Holy New Martyr Peter the Aleut
Commemorated on December 12

 

The holy New Martyr Peter suffered martyrdom in San Francisco at the time that California belonged to Spain. An Aleut from Alaska, he and his companions were captured in California by the Spaniards. When he refused to abandon Orthodoxy to accept Latinism, which they wished to force upon him, the Spaniards submitted him to a martyrdom like that suffered by Saint James the Persian, cutting him apart joint by joint. He died from loss of blood in steadfast confession of the Faith in 1815.

 

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Fourth Mode
Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ εὔσπλαγχνος…
From on high didst Thou descend, O Compassionate One; to burial of three days hast Thou submitted that Thou mightest free us from our passions.  O our Life and Resurrection, Lord, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for 11th Sun. of Luke in the Second Mode
Ἐν πίστει τοὺς Προπάτορας ἐδικαίωσας…
By faith didst Thou justify the Forefathers, when through them Thou didst betroth Thyself aforetime to the Church from among the nations.  The Saints boast in glory that from their seed there is a glorious fruit, even she that bare Thee seedlessly.  By their prayers, O Christ God, save our souls.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Spyridon the Wonderworker in the First Mode
Τῆς Συνόδου τῆς πρώτης ἀνεδείχθης ὑπέρμαχος
Thou wast shown forth as a champion of the First Council and a wonderworker, O Spyridon, our God-bearing Father.  Wherefore, thou didst speak unto one dead in the grave, and didst change a serpent to gold.  And while chanting thy holy prayers, thou hadst Angels serving with thee, O most sacred one.  Glory to Him that hath glorified thee.  Glory to Him that hath crowned thee.  Glory to Him that worketh healings for all through thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις …
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον…
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 Reading

Prokeimenon. Grave Mode. Psalm 149.5,1.
The saints shall rejoice in glory.
Verse: Sing to the Lord a new song.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians 5:8-19

Brethren, walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things that they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light.” Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart.

 

Gospel Reading

The reading is from Luke 14:16-24

The Lord said this parable: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time of the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must 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 there is still 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.'”

 

Trisagion

Savvas Kalaitzidis (8 years) survived by his two sons, his two daughters in law, his three grandsons, and his sister

 

Artoklasia

The Artoklasia is offered for the health and wellbeing of past and present Archangel Michael recipients.

 

 

Oath of Office

The Executive Board of Philoptochos took their oath of office on Sunday, December 5.  Thank you to them and all of the members of Philoptochos for the important work they do!

 

Let’s Celebrate!

 

 

FESTIVAL Volunteers 2022…WELCOME BACK one of ST DEMETRIOS’ BEST FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES & FUNDRAISERS!  EACH of YOU make this all possible.
Volunteers are needed to assist in Food Prep *  Setting up the festival grounds * Cashiers * Bakery * Volunteer Table and so much more…Come see us in the narthex and SIGN UP TODAY!

 

Philoptochos News

Philoptochos is sponsoring an evening of fun entertainment!  A few tickets are available for the BeeGee’s Salute Concert at The Parker (Parker Playhouse), 707N. 8th Street, St. Lauderdale on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 8:00 pm.  Price is $60 for Orchestra seats.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.  See Athena Loucas or Paula Kirifides for any questions.

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

 

 

St. Photios National Shrine 2021 Annual Essay contest 

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Sunday, December 12

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

Archangel Michael Award Ceremony                                       After Divine Liturgy

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:30PM – 3:30PM
in the church hall

Monday, December 13

Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church            4:15PM-6:00PM

Intermediate Modern Greek  -Zoom                                         6:30PM-7:30PM

Tuesday, December 14

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Thursday, December 16

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Friday, December 17

Christmas Pageant and Parish Christmas Party                     7:00PM

Saturday, December 18

HDF Practice                                                                           1:00PM

Sunday, December 19   

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:30PM – 3:30PM
in the church hall

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 5th, 2021

/in , /by

 

 

December 5, 2021
10thSunday of Luke

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

 

Sabbas the Sanctified

Commemorated on December 5

This Saint was born in 439 in Moutalaska, a small village of Cappadocia. He entered the arena of the monastic life from childhood and was under that master trainer of monastics, Euthymius, the Great, the teacher of the desert. He became the spiritual Father of many monks and an instructor for the monasteries in Palestine, and was appointed leader (archimandrite) of the desert-dwellers of Palestine by the Patriarch of Jerusalem. In his old age he went to Constantinople, to the Emperors Anastasius and Saint Justinian the Great, in behalf of the Orthodox Faith and the dogmas of the Council of Chalcedon. Having lived ninety-four years, he reposed in 533. The Typicon for the ecclesiastical services had its beginning in the monastery established by this righteous one.

Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra
Commemorated on December 6

 

This Saint lived during the reign of Saint Constantine the Great, and reposed in 330, As a young man, he desired to espouse the solitary life. He made a pilgrimage to the holy city Jerusalem, where he found a place to withdraw to devote himself to prayer. It was made known to him, however, that this was not the will of God for him, but that he should return to his homeland to be a cause of salvation for many. He returned to Myra, and was ordained bishop. He became known for his abundant mercy, providing for the poor and needy, and delivering those who had been unjustly accused. No less was he known for his zeal for the truth. He was present at the First Ecumenical Council of the 318 Fathers at Nicaea in 325; upon hearing the blasphemies that Arius brazenly uttered against the Son of God, Saint Nicholas struck him on the face. Since the canons of the Church forbid the clergy to strike any man at all, his fellow bishops were in perplexity what disciplinary action was to be taken against this hierarch whom all revered. In the night our Lord Jesus Christ and our Lady Theotokos appeared to certain of the bishops, informing them that no action was to be taken against him, since he had acted not out of passion, but extreme love and piety. The Dismissal Hymn for holy hierarchs, The truth of things hath revealed thee to thy flock … was written originally for Saint Nicholas.  He is the patron of all travellers, and of sea-farers in particular; he is one of the best known and best loved Saints of all time.

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Second Mode
Ἀγγελικαὶ Δυνάμεις ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμά σου…
Angelic powers were above Thy tomb, and they that guarded Thee became as dead.  And Mary stood by the grave seeking Thine immaculate Body.  Thou hast despoiled Hades and wast not tried thereby.  Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst grant us life. O Thou Who didst arise from the dead, Lord, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Stephen the New in the Fourth Mode
Ασκητικώς προγυμνασθείς εν τώ όρει
Trained on the mountain in ascetical labours, with the whole armour of the Cross thou didst vanquish the spiritual arrays of unseen enemies; and when thou hadst stripped thyself with great courage for contest, thou didst slay Copronymus with the sword of the true Faith. For both these things hast thou been crowned by God, O righteous Martyr, blest Stephen of great renown.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις …
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον…
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 Reading

Prokeimenon. Grave Mode. Psalm 149.5,1.
The saints shall rejoice in glory.
Verse: Sing to the Lord a new song.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians 5:22-26; 6:1-2

Brethren, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law.  And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.  Let us have no self-conceit, no provoking of one another, no envy of one another.  Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.  Look to yourself, lest you too be tempted.  Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Gospel Reading

The reading is from Luke 13:10-17

At that time, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.” Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?” As he said this, all his adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

Trisagion

Flor Androsky (9 days) Friend of Kathy Ziegler and James Haidos.

Theodore P. Mavrick (16 years) Survived by sons Nick Mavrick and Peter Mavrick, and by grandchildren Natasha, Peter E. and Gabriel.

Artoklasia

The Artoklasia prayers will be chanted for the health of Stavroula Christodoulou, Georgia Legakis, Dimitra Bakas, Maria Vlamis, Eleni Litsas, and their families.

 

 

Announcements

 

Fall General Assembly
The Fall General Assembly is TODAY.  In order to participate and to vote, you must be a pledging steward and current for year 2021.

Yearly Christmas Pageant  and Church Family Event
The Sunday School Christmas Pageant Rehearsal will take place Saturday, December 11th from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. The The pageant family event is Friday, December 17th at 7:00pm.

 

Thank you to our GOYA and the GOYA advisors for Decorating our Church for Christmas

 

 

Announcements

Fall General Assembly
The Fall General Assembly is TODAY.  In order to participate and to vote, you must be a pledging steward and current for year 2021.

Yearly Christmas Pageant  and Church Family Event
The Sunday School Christmas Pageant Rehearsal will take place Saturday, December 11th from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. The The pageant family event is Friday, December 17th at 7:00pm.

 

 

 

Daughters of Penelope News

Dear St. Demetrios Family,

I hope you are doing well!  We are very excited that our Christmas Party is only a week away! It will be held on Tuesday, December 7th at the lovely Oceanic Restaurant on the Pompano Pier.  Festivities start at 6 p.m. followed by a delicious dinner. We have DJ Jimmy D Entertainment to provide us with both Greek and American music!  It is $65 per person.  Please purchase your tickets either online today (see flyer) or in person after church in the hall this Sunday, December 5th.   

This is a wonderful place to host your family and friends for a lovely night to kick off the holidays!   It’s going to be FABULOUS!  You don’t want to miss out!! Share out on your social media too!

If you have any questions please contact Stephanie Balaskas at (954) 415 -0488 or Faith Makris Becker at faith.makris1@gmail.com.  They will gladly help you purchase your tickets and put your seating arrangements together!!

We hope to see you there!

 

 

Philoptochos News

Philoptochos would like to extend a big thank you to all who participated in the bake sale. Whether it was by baking, buying, or monetary donations, your support is very much appreciated and goes a long way in helping our community.

Philoptochos is sponsoring an evening of fun entertainment!  A few tickets are available for the BeeGee’s Salute Concert at The Parker (Parker Playhouse), 707N. 8th Street, St. Lauderdale on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 8:00 pm.  Price is $60 for Orchestra seats.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.  See Athena Loucas or Paula Kirifides for any questions.

Philoptochos 2022 Memberships:  Annual dues are payable now.  Become a new member or renew your membership @$50 for 2022, as you support the national, metropolis and local organizations of the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Please make checks payable to Philoptochos or use credit cards via Square.

 

Stewardship
Our Church.  Our Spiritual Home.  Our Family

Our St. Demetrios Church is our spiritual home. It is a place of prayer, comfort, spiritual healing, and celebration. You may have been brought here on your 40th day, or it may have been the destination of your spiritual journey. For both, St. Demetrios Church is a spiritual home to which we may always return. We are brothers and sisters in Christ – a family.

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of our vibrant community. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings.

Thank you very much for your 2021 stewardship pledge.  Your gift truly makes a difference by enabling us to serve those who come to seek Jesus Christ in His Church. Please consider increasing your pledge for 2022. Even a small increase will help us do that much more to strengthen and advance our parish.  Please fill out a year 2022 pledge form. Fill out both sides completely so that we can update our database. Thank you!

 

District Epiphany Celebration

 

Calander

Sunday, December 5

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

GOYA Meeting                                                                         12:30PM

General Assembly                                                                    After the Divine Liturgy

Pap Corps Boutique and Lunch                                               After the Divine Liturgy

Book Fair                                                                                 After the Divine Liturgy

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:30PM – 3:30PM
in the church hall

 

Monday, December 6

Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church            4:15PM-6:00PM

Intermediate Modern Greek  -Zoom                                         6:30PM-7:30PM

Tuesday, December 7

Christmas party at the Oceanic                                                6:00PM

Thursday, December 9

Philoptochos Meeting                                                             10:30AM

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Saturday, December 11

Christmas Pageant Rehearsal                                                  9:00AM-12:00 noon

Sunday, December 12   

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:30PM – 3:30PM
in the church hall

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, November 28th, 2021

/in , /by

 

 

November 28, 2021
13thSunday of Luke

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

 

Stephen the New

 

The righteous Stephen was born in Constantinople in 715 to pious parents named John and Anna. His mother had prayed often to the most holy Theotokos in her church at Blachernae to be granted a son, and one day received a revelation from our Lady that she would conceive the son she desired. When Anna had conceived, she asked the newly-elected Patriarch Germanus (see May 12) to bless the babe in her womb. He said, “May God bless him through the prayers of the holy First Martyr Stephen.” At that moment Anna saw a flame of fire issue from the mouth of the holy Patriarch. When the child was born, she named him Stephen, according to the prophecy of Saint Germanus.
Stephen struggled in asceticism from his youth in Bithynia at the Monastery of Saint Auxentius, which was located at a lofty place called Mount Auxentius (see Feb. 14). Because of his extreme labours and great goodness, he was chosen by the hermits of Mount Auxentius to be their leader. The fame of his spiritual struggles reached the ears of all, and the fragrance of his virtue drew many to himself.
During the reign of Constantine V (741-775), Stephen showed his love of Orthodoxy in contending for the Faith. This Constantine was called Copronymus, that is, “namesake of dung,” because while being baptized he had soiled the waters of regeneration, giving a fitting token of what manner of impiety he would later embrace. Besides being a fierce Iconoclast, Constantine raised up a ruthless persecution of monasticism. He held a council in 754 that anathematized the holy icons. Because Saint Stephen rejected this council, the Emperor framed false accusations against him and exiled him. But while in exile Saint Stephen performed healings with holy icons and turned many away from Iconoclasm. When he was brought before the Emperor again, he showed him a coin and asked whose image the coin bore. “Mine,” said the tyrant. “If any man trample upon thine image, is he liable to punishment?” asked the Saint. When they that stood by answered yes, the Saint groaned because of their blindness, and said if they thought dishonouring the image of a corruptible king worthy of punishment, what torment would they receive who trampled upon the image of the Master Christ and of the Mother of God? Then he threw the coin to the ground and trampled on it. He was condemned to eleven months in bonds and imprisonment. Later, he was dragged over the earth and was stoned, like Stephen the First Martyr; wherefore he is called Stephen the New. Finally, he was struck with a wooden club on the temple and his head was shattered, and thus he gave up his spirit in the year 767.

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Second Mode
Ἀγγελικαὶ Δυνάμεις ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμά σου…
Angelic powers were above Thy tomb, and they that guarded Thee became as dead.  And Mary stood by the grave seeking Thine immaculate Body.  Thou hast despoiled Hades and wast not tried thereby.  Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst grant us life. O Thou Who didst arise from the dead, Lord, glory be to Thee.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Stephen the New in the Fourth Mode
Ασκητικώς προγυμνασθείς εν τώ όρει
Trained on the mountain in ascetical labours, with the whole armour of the Cross thou didst vanquish the spiritual arrays of unseen enemies; and when thou hadst stripped thyself with great courage for contest, thou didst slay Copronymus with the sword of the true Faith. For both these things hast thou been crowned by God, O righteous Martyr, blest Stephen of great renown.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion of St. Demetrios in the Third Mode
Μέγαν εύρατο εv τοίς κιvδύvοις …
Greatness has been found in danger.  You are champion of the world.  A victor who could turn the nations back.  You boldly encouraged Nestor to defeat Lyaeus in the arena.  Therefore, holy great martyr Demetrios, intercede with Christ our God, to grant us His great mercy.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον…
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 Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal Second Mode. Psalm 27.9,1.
O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.
Verse: To you, O Lord, I have cried, O my God.

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians 2:4-10
Brethren, God who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with him, and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God: not because of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Gospel Reading

The reading is from Luke 18:18-27
At that time, a ruler came to Jesus and asked him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’ ” And he said, “All these I have observed from my youth.” And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute it to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” But when he heard this he became sad, for he was very rich. Jesus looking at him said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” But he said, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

Baby Blessings

Spiro and Rocio Mehallis and big brother Lazaro present “Phoenix Rose” for the traditional 40 day mother and baby blessing.

Theo and Vasiliki Poulopoulos and big sister Nikoleta Valentina present “Katerina Marionna” for the traditional 40 day mother and baby blessing.

 

Stewardship

 

With Christmas almost upon us, we at are truly thankful for you and your family here in our Church.  You are a vital part of our Church Community.

Please take a few minutes to review your 2021 Stewardship Commitment in support of our Parish Ministries.  If your financial commitment has not been fulfilled, please do so as soon as you are able and ensure the success of the programs undertaken for the spiritual needs of the families entrusted to our care. Remember that your Stewardship provides the foundation for our Parish Ministries and our efforts in meeting the challenge of spreading Christ’s Word and our Orthodox Faith.

Stewardship is an opportunity to examine our priorities and values, to express our thankfulness, to give of ourselves and to grow in grace. It allows us to participate in the work of God. Giving is not a substitute for commitment – it is an expression of our commitment.

May the grace of our Lord bless you and your loved ones to experience the joy of Christ’s Birth through the joy of giving.

 

Orthodox Christian Stewardship 2022
Our Church ~ Our Spiritual Home ~ Our Family

 

 

 

 

 

Fall General Assembly
The Fall General Assembly is on December 5th.  In order to participate and to vote, you must be a pledging steward and current for year 2021.

GOOD NEWS!!
For those who missed the bake sale or just want more of the delicious homemade sweets, the bake sale has been extended. Please come by after church, pick up something to have with your coffee or to take home and share with family and friends. Thank you for your continued support.

Decorating for Christmas
GOYANS and their families will be decorating the church for Christmas on Saturday, November 27th at 10am. Please join us. All parishioners are welcome! The more the merrier.

Yearly Christmas Pageant  and Church Family Event
The Sunday School Christmas Pageant Rehearsal will take place Saturday, December 11th from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. The The pageant family event is Friday, December 17th at 7:00pm.

Calling all Young Adults!!
(ages 18 – 30)
Join us for an evening of fun on Thursday, December 2 at 6:30pm, where we will launch our evening at the popular Tin Roof on Atlantic Ave. in Delray for food and drinks.  We will then walk our way to the Silverball Pinball Museum around 8pm where we can enjoy retro games and great times.  For more information and to RSVP, contact Faith Becker at faith.makris1@gmail.com.  Looking forward to a fantastic night together!

 

 

 

Daughters of Penelope News
The Daughters of Penelope Narcissus Chapter #289 cordially invites everyone to join us on Tuesday, December 7th at the beautiful Oceanic Restaurant at the Pompano Pier.  Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by a delicious dinner with an open-air beach view! Greek and American music featuring DJ Jimmy D Entertainment!
It’s going to be a lovely night celebrating our Christmas spirit amongst family and friends!  Tickets are $65 per person and Cash Bar.  Valet parking $10 and Garage parking is available.  We are supporting Kids in Distress for our philanthropy this year.  We are collecting backpacks, toiletries, blankets, pajamas, stuffed animals to cuddle, and new clothes.  All ages Birth – Teenagers. You may pay in the church hall or via our website https:/daughters-of-penelope-narcissus-289.squaresite.  For more information please contact Stephanie Balasakas at (954) 415-0488 or email Faith Makris Becker at faith.makris1@gmail.com.

 

Calendar

 

Saturday, November 27

Decorating the Church for Christmas                                         9:00AM-1:00PM
everyone is welcome

Sunday, November 28

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Philoptochos Bake Sale                                                             After Divine Liturgy

Bible Study                                                                                 1:00PM – 2:00PM

No Sunday School

No Dance

No HDF

Monday, November 29

Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church            4:15PM-6:00PM

Intermediate Modern Greek  -Zoom                                         6:30PM-7:30PM

Tuesday, November 30 

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                               7:00PM

Thursday, December 2

Young Adult Event    (offsite)                                                    6:30PM

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                              7:00PM

Sunday, December 5   

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                          After Holy Communion

GOYA Meeting                                                                         12:30PM

General Assembly                                                                    After the Divine Liturgy

Pap Corps Boutique and Lunch                                               After the Divine Liturgy

Book Fair                                                                                 After the Divine Liturgy

Bible Study                                                                              1:00PM – 2:00PM

Jr. Palazakia K-2nd grade                                                       12:45PM-1:30PM
Upstairs classrooms

Palazakia 3rd-5th grade                                                          12:45PM-1:45PM
Upstairs classrooms

Sr. Palazakia 6th-8th grade                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM
@ ArtServe

Kamaria 9th-12th grade                                                          1:00PM-2:00PM
@ ArtServe

HDF                                                                                          2:30PM – 3:30PM
in the church hall

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, November 21st, 2021

/in , /by

 

 

November 21, 2021
Entrance of the Theotokos

Saints and Feasts Commemorated

 

 

The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple

 

According to the tradition of the Church, the Theotokos was brought to the Temple at three years of age, where she was consecrated to God and spent her days until she was fourteen or fifteen years old; and then, as a mature maiden, by the common counsel of the priests (since her parents had reposed some three years before), she was betrothed to Joseph.

 

 

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal First Mode
Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον Πατρὶ καὶ Πνεύματι..
Let us worship the Word, O ye faithful, praising Him that with the Father and the Spirit is co-beginningless God, Who was born of a pure Virgin that we all be saved; for He was pleased to mount the Cross in the flesh that He assumed, accepting thus to endure death.  And by His glorious rising, He also willed to resurrect the dead.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Entry of the Theotokos in the Fourth Mode
Σήμερον τής ευδοκίας Θεού τό προοίμιον…
Today is the prelude of God’s good will and the heralding of the salvation of mankind.  In the temple of God, the Virgin is presented openly, and she proclaimeth Christ unto all.  To her, then, with a great voice let us cry aloud:  Rejoice, O thou fulfilment of the Creator’s dispensation.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Seasonal Kontakion in the Fourth Mode
Ο καθαρώτατος ναός τού Σωτήρος…
Today, the most pure temple of the Savior, the precious bridal chamber and Virgin, the sacred treasure of God, enters the house of the Lord, bringing the grace of the Divine Spirit. The Angels of God praise her. She is the heavenly tabernacle.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by: Narthex Press.

 

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Third Mode. Luke 1: 46-48.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
Verse: For he has regarded the humility of his servant.

 

The reading is from St. Paul’s Letter to the Hebrews 9:1-7

BRETHREN, the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; it is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain stood a tent called the Holy of Holies, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, which contained a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. These preparations having thus been made, the priests go continually into the outer tent, performing their ritual duties; but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood which he offers for himself and for the errors of the people.

Gospel Reading

Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28

At that time, Jesus entered a village; and a woman called Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve you alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

 

Trisagion

Mary Planakis (3 years) Survived by her children: Andreas, Clare, Chris, Beth, her grandchildren: Lucas, Chloe, Nikos, Alexandra and her siblings: Tony, Helen, Nick, Magda and Peter.

Ioannis Manolakos (22 years) Survived by children and grandchildren.

Artoklasia

 

Today’s Artoklasia is for the health of the members of the Daughters of Penelope.

 

Baby Blessings

 

Amelia and Michael Yianilos present “Sophia Beatrice” for the traditional 40 day mother and baby blessing.

Tatiana Nikolaidis and Robby Illanes present “Elenora” for the traditional 40 day mother and baby blessing.

Stewardship

 

With Christmas almost upon us, we at are truly thankful for you and your family here in our Church.  You are a vital part of our Church Community.

Please take a few minutes to review your 2021 Stewardship Commitment in support of our Parish Ministries.  If your financial commitment has not been fulfilled, please do so as soon as you are able and ensure the success of the programs undertaken for the spiritual needs of the families entrusted to our care. Remember that your Stewardship provides the foundation for our Parish Ministries and our efforts in meeting the challenge of spreading Christ’s Word and our Orthodox Faith.

Stewardship is an opportunity to examine our priorities and values, to express our thankfulness, to give of ourselves and to grow in grace. It allows us to participate in the work of God. Giving is not a substitute for commitment – it is an expression of our commitment.

May the grace of our Lord bless you and your loved ones to experience the joy of Christ’s Birth through the joy of giving.

 

Orthodox Christian Stewardship 2022
Our Church ~ Our Spiritual Home ~ Our Family

 

 

 

 

 

 Announcements

 

Broward County Schools Mask Policy Update

As the guidelines have changed for vaccinations for children under age 12, there will be changes to the mandate by our local government and St. Demetrios’ Sunday School and Greek Dance Programs will adhere to the local rules of our government which are as follows:
The Broward County Public schools announced that as of Saturday, November 20, 2021 the use of face coverings are optional but strongly encouraged for students and staff.

 

GOYA Service Project


GOYA would like to thank everyone that donated and helped with their service project for the youth at Covenant House. The kids packed 45 large bags filled with school supplies, snacks, hygiene items, gift cards and much more!

 

 

Loving Stitches

Loving Stitches reminder! Our November meeting is on Tuesday, Nov 23 at 11:30!
Remember it is a Potluck!! Please bring your favorite dish! See you then!

 

Calling all Young Adults!!
(ages 18 – 30)

Join us for an evening of fun on Thursday, December 2 at 6:30pm, where we will launch our evening at the popular Tin Roof on Atlantic Ave. in Delray for food and drinks.

We will then walk our way to the Silverball Pinball Museum around 8pm where we can enjoy retro games and great times.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Faith Becker at faith.makris1@gmail.com.

Looking forward to a fantastic night together!

 

General Assembly

The Fall General Assembly will take place on Sunday, December 5 after the Divine Liturgy.  Please save the date and plan to attend.

 

Decorating for Christmas

GOYANS and their families will be decorating the church for Christmas on Saturday, November 27th at 10am. Please join us. All parishioners are welcome! The more the merrier.

Yearly Christmas Pageant  and Church Family Event

The Sunday School Christmas Pageant Rehearsal will take place Saturday, December 11th from 9:00am to 12:00 noon. The The pageant family event is Friday, December 17th at 7:00pm.

 

Hellenic Cultural Society Book Club Series 2021

Do you like reading?

Join the discussion of the book “Zorba the Greek” by Nikos Kazantzakis.
Saturday November 20, 2021, 12:00 pm -3:00 pm at St Demetrios Hall.  Light lunch and refreshments will be served.

Reservations by phone: Stavroula Christodoulou 954-899-8455.
By email: SimplyGreekSF@gmail.com.

Nikos Kazantzakis (1883-1957), nominated twice for a Nobel Prize in Literature, was a novelist, dramatist, translator, poet, travel writer, and the president of the Hellenic Literary Society. “Zorba the Greek” became an international bestseller and inspiration for the Oscar-winning film “Zorba”. The book can be purchased at Barnes and Noble or Amazon.

 

 

Philoptochos News

  • BINGO – FRIDAY EVENING, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 AT 6:00PM.   Doors open at 5:30pm.  Many gift prizes, 50/50 raffle, plus refreshments.   Bring your family & friends for a fun evening.  Get 2 cards for $7.00 at the door.  Benefitting Feeding South Florida.  See you on November 19th!”
  • IT’S BACK!!!!!  The Philoptochos annual Thanksgiving Day Bake Sale is back! After a long wait we all look forward once again to your delicious homemade sweets. What a wonderful addition these will make to your Thanksgiving day meal as well as a very thoughtful gift for someone else to enjoy. Please bring your goodies to the Kandaras Hall this Sunday, November 21st, 2021. Without your generosity Philoptochos would not be able to minister to our community. May God bless you all and keep you well.

 

Pap Corps News

 

 

Daughters of Penelope News

The Daughters of Penelope Narcissus Chapter #289 cordially invites everyone to join us on Tuesday, December 7th at the beautiful Oceanic Restaurant at the Pompano Pier. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by a delicious dinner with an open-air beach view! It’s going to be a lovely night celebrating our Christmas spirit amongst family and friends! Tickets are $65 per person and Cash Bar. Valet parking $10 and Garage parking is available. We are supporting Kids in Distress for our philanthropy this year. We are collecting backpacks, toiletries, blankets, pajamas, stuffed animals to cuddle, and new clothes. All ages Birth – Teenagers. You may pay in the church hall or via our website https:/daughters-of-penelope-narcissus-289.squaresite. For more information please contact Stephanie Balasakas at (954) 415-0488 or email Faith Makris Becker at faith.makris1@gmail.com.

 

District Epiphany Celebration

GOYA Fundraiser


If you would like to help GOYA, please support their fundraiser.

 

 

Calendar

 

Saturday, November 20

Book Club                                                                              12:00PM-3:00PM

Sunday, November 21                                              

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                     9:00AM/10:00AM

Sunday School                                                                    After Holy Communion

Thanksgiving Bake Sale                                                   After Divine Liturgy

Bible Study                                                                          1:00PM -2:00PM

No Dance

No HDF

Monday, November 22

Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner @ church            4:15PM-6:00PM

Intermediate Modern Greek -Zoom                                            6:30PM-7:30PM

Tuesday, November 23 

Loving Stitches                                                                              11:30AM

Advanced Modern Greek-Zoom                                                  7:00PM

Thursday, November 25                                                       Happy Thanksgiving

Saturday, November 27

Decorating the Church for Christmas                                         9:00AM-1:00PM
everyone is welcome

Sunday, November 28

Orthros/Divine Liturgy                                                                9:00AM/10:00AM

Bible Study                                                                                    1:00PM – 2:00PM

No Sunday School

No Dance

No HDF