---

 

April 11, 2021~ Sunday of St. John Climacus

 

 

The memory of this Saint is celebrated on March 30, where his biography may be found. He is celebrated today because his book, The Ladder of Divine Ascent, is a sure guide to the ascetic life, written by a great man of prayer experienced in all forms of the monastic polity; it teaches the seeker after salvation how to lay a sound foundation for his struggles, how to detect and war against each of the passions, how to avoid the snares laid by the demons, and how to rise from the rudimental virtues to the heights of Godlike love and humility. It is held in such high esteem that it is universally read in its entirety in monasteries during the Great Fast.

 

---

 

 

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.

Apolytikion for Sun. of St. John Climacus in the Plagal Fourth Mode
Ταίς τών δακρύων σου ροαίς…
With the streams of thy tears, thou didst cultivate the barrenness of the desert; and by thy sighings from the depths,thou didst bear fruit a hundredfold in labours; and thou becamest a luminary, shining with miracles upon the world, O John our righteous Father. Intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved.

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 Plagal Fourth Mode 
Τὴ ὑπερμάχω στρατηγῶ τὰ νικητήρια…
To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: “Hail, unwedded bride!”

Prokeimenon. Third Mode. Psalm 46.6,1.
Sing praises to our God, sing praises.
Verse: Clap your hands, all you nations.

 

The reading is from St. Paul’s First Letter to the Hebrews 6:13-20

BRETHREN, when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore to himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.” And thus Abraham, having patiently endured, obtained the promise. Men indeed swear by a greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he interposed with an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible that God should prove false, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner shrine behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.
The Reading is from Mark 9:17-31

At that time, a man came to Jesus kneeling and saying: “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit; and wherever it seizes him it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him; and when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you can do anything, have pity on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can! All things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.” They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he would not have any one know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he will rise.”

 

---

 

Memorial Prayer

 

Dino Fountas (6 months) husband of Connie Fountas.

Jacqueline Filosofos (6 years) mother of Denise Filosofos.

 

Trisagion Prayer

 

Nicholas Demiris (6 months) son of Kalliopi Hanlon, brother of Chris and Harry Demiris.

Athanasios (4 yrs), Telesia (5 yrs), and George (25 yrs) Kotzias relatives of Connie Fountas.

 

---

 

Announcements

 

Resources for Lent, Holy Week and Pascha

To see this week’s email click here https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/WhctKJWQlqxFDRHWRxVzXSrdnQqsVChRVjsHNBvCfVPnSTkjVZBTSRqlMGWhjlzRvVRMLHb

To receive the weekly email directly in your inbox  Sign up here 

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/Bk6tBI6?source_id=58e56216-e903-4045-ba67-1301e9344ae0&source_type=em&c=_27yQ8yxPJw4kvNZqcZcv7TDslZGodGT2-Qp2fLc6kcljWKxeJ1tbA==

 

 

---

 

Schedule of Church Services

• 4/9   Friday:                                                                   7pm                                    Salutations to the Theotokos
• 4/11   Sunday:                                                                  9am/10am                         Orthros/Divine Liturgy
• 4/16  Friday                                                                      7pm                                  The Akathist Hymn

 

Also, we are live streaming our services.

Visit https://stdemetrios.org/ where a link to the broadcast will be found.

 

---

 

 

---

 

Donations for Lent, Holy Week and Pascha

A few giving opportunities towards flower purchases remain.  Please note the intention of your donation on the memo line of your check.  Thank you!

Flowers
4/4                   For the Holy Cross $300

Peace Lily Potted plants $10 each

 

---

 

Scholarship News
Applications for the Dr. Helene Tzitsikas Scholarship  for students enrolled in higher education as well as applications for St. Stephen’s Summer Camp are open.  More information about the Dr. Tzitsikas Scholarship can be found on the St. Demetrios website https://stdemetrios.org/helene-tzitsikas-scholarship-fund/.  Information about St. Stephen’s Camp can be found on their website St. Stephen’s Summer Camp – Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta – Atlanta, GA (atlmetropolis.org)
Scholarship applications are available on line at the St. Demetrios website or call the Church Office 954-467-1515 Monday – Thursday.  Deadlines for all applications are May 1, 2021.

 

---

 

Stewardship

“…The Greatest Of These Is Love” 1 Cor 13:13

 

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of St. Demetrios Church. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings. Let’s Step Up our gifts of Time Talent and Treasure!

Please fill out a pledge form by either visiting https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/ or downloading this form.  You can make contributions towards your financial pledge by visiting https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ .

Thank you!

 

---

 

GOYA News

 

• Lenten Retreat 

Sunday, April 11^th-GOYA Lenten Retreat following liturgy. Lunch will be provided. Questions contact ftlgoya@gmail.com.

 

Philoptochos News

 

• Hellenic College/Holy Cross

This week we celebrate the Sunday of the Holy Cross, so it is fitting for churches across the country to renew their support of our college and seminary, Hellenic College and Holy Cross.  Our donations will go toward operating expenses and scholarships for both men and women who want to further their education and serve the Church.  These young people hope to serve the church as priests, chanters, administrators, youth advisors, choir directors and religious educators. Please give generously.  It will be wonderful if every family can donate $10.  Leave your donation in the basket in the narthex, send it to church or donate online at https://ladies-philoptochos-of-st-demetrios.square.site/

 

---

 

• Lenten Outreach

Donate gift cards to the teens at Covenant House. They need Target and Walmart cards for clothes and personal items; Lyft and Uber cards for rides to their home schools and jobs; and fast food cards for lunches and dinners when they are going directly from school to work.  $10 denominations are best.  You can donate online at  https://ladies-philoptochos-of-st-demetrios.square.site/ or put gift cards in the box in the narthex or mail checks to the church marked Philoptochos.  Thanks for your generosity.

---

 

Daughters of Penelope News

 

• Meeting

The next meeting of the Daughters of Penelope will be in the church hall on Saturday April 17^th at 11 am.  Please try to attend.

• Thank you!!

The Daughters of Penelope Narcissus Chapter 289 would like to thank everyone who donated to our Feeding South Florida Food Drive.  We collected $ 765 of our $ 1,000 goal in addition to the food that was donated.  We greatly appreciate your support.

---

 

AHEPA News

 

---

 

Mental Health Resources

 

Late last year, the Assembly of Bishops assembled a Mental Health Task Force to assist our Churches in this very important ministry to the faithful. I am therefore very pleased to announce that, as the result of the work of the Task Force, a National Directory of Orthodox Mental Health providers has been created. Visit  https://www.assemblyofbishops.org/directories/mental-health/ .
I join my fellow Hierarchs in thanking the Steering Committee of the Mental Health Task Force, and all those Orthodox Professionals who participated in the creation of this directory, so that it might help the greatest number of individuals.

Praying for the continued health of all, both in body and soul, I remain,

Paternally yours with love in Christ,

+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta

 

---

 

Light a Candle & Say a Prayer at Saint Demetrios

 

“It is impossible to imagine an Orthodox church in which candles are not lit.”
(Blessed Simeon of Thessalonica, 15th Century) 

“I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) 

We know that at this time it can be difficult to pray from home and not physically be in the church. One of the first things most people do upon entering an Orthodox Church is to light their candle and offer prayers for one’s personal needs or that of a family member or friend, we also light candles to pray for protection and safety so that we may live this life without fear.

If you wish to light a candle, visit https://saintdemetrios.square.site After you select the candle(s) that you would like us to light and before pressing the “Place Order” button, please submit the names of your loved ones, those who are alive and/or those who have departed this life. During these times we would be happy to light the candle for you and read the names that have been submitted during the Divine Liturgy.

 

---

 

Dear St. Demetrios Family,

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Ft. Lauderdale is open to the faithful.  We are complying with all CDC, State, Local and Archdiocese guidelines.  Here is the list of things that will be taking place on Sundays.

1)  Everyone must wear a mask in order to enter the church.
2)  Before entering the church, the temperature of each person will be taken by a designated person. If the person’s temperature is above 100.4 F he or she will be kindly asked to return to their home, both for their safety and the safety of others.
3) Parish Council will direct each parishioner to the designated X in the pews for each person or household to sit starting in the front of the church and working their way to back.
4) A place to accept offerings will be provided in the Narthex upon entering or leaving.
5) Parishioners are not to move around the church during the services to light candles or venerate icons.
6) Names and phone numbers of each attendee at every service will be taken in the event that a subsequent infection requires tracing.
7) If you have any symptoms of coronavirus, COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell), you must NOT attend church, and immediately seek medical attention for yourself and your household.
8) Parishioners who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 as defined by civil authorities are given dispensation not to attend services and will be asked to refrain from attending.
9) In terms of preventing the spread of this virus, we ask parishioners to follow CDC directives, which currently include: washing of hands thoroughly and frequently, covering your coughs and sneezes, avoiding sharing personal items, wearing a mask, and maintaining a social distance of six feet.
10) Honor is to be shown to Holy Icons and the Holy Cross by only doing your cross and bowing, keeping in mind not to kiss or to touch the Holy Icons and the Holy Cross.
11) No one is to enter the Holy Altar except the clergy and assigned adult helpers.
12) For Memorials, please write the names of your deceased for the clergy to pray for their souls (without Koliva).
13) Artoclasias will be celebrated as normal.
14) No service books will be left out for common use. This includes papers of any kind (bulletins etc.). Parishioners are encouraged to bring their own service books.
15) During Holy Communion – Communicants must line up row by row (with help from Parish Council) and remain six feet apart using the designated social distancing X’s that have been placed in the church.  Communicants may remove their masks only momentarily to receive Holy Communion.
16)  For the continued safety of those attending church services in person, parishioners should immediately leave when the service is finished. For the sake of others, please do not socialize in the Narthex or other areas of the church or its surrounding buildings or parking lots. Additionally, Sunday Coffee Fellowship hours will be suspended until further notice.

Yours In Christ,
Fr. Peter Zougras

 

 

---

 

March 28, 2021~ Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

 

 

This divine Father, who was from Asia Minor, was from childhood reared in the royal court of Constantinople, where he was instructed in both religious and secular wisdom. Later, while still a youth, he left the imperial court and struggled in asceticism on Mount Athos, and in the Skete at Beroea. He spent some time in Thessalonica being treated for an illness that came from his harsh manner of life. He was present in Constantinople at the Council that was convened in 1341 against Barlaam of Calabria, and at the Council of 1347 against Acindynus, who was of like mind with Barlaam; Barlaam and Acindynus claimed that the grace of God is created. At both these Councils, the Saint contended courageously for the true dogmas of the Church of Christ, teaching in particular that divine grace is not created, but is the uncreated energies of God which are poured forth throughout creation: otherwise it would be impossible, if grace were created, for man to have genuine communion with the uncreated God. In 1347 he was appointed Metropolitan of Thessalonica. He tended his flock in an apostolic manner for some twelve years, and wrote many books and treatises on the most exalted doctrines of our Faith; and having lived for a total of sixty-three years, he reposed in the Lord in 1359.

His holy relics are kept in the Cathedral of Thessalonica. A full service was composed for his feast day by the Patriarch Philotheus in 1368, when it was established that his feast be celebrated on this day. Since works without right faith avail nothing, we set Orthodoxy of faith as the foundation of all that we accomplish during the Fast, by celebrating the Triumph of Orthodoxy the Sunday before, and the great defender of the teachings of the holy Fathers today.

 

---

 

Resources for Lent, Holy Week and Pascha

To see this week’s email click here

To receive the weekly email directly in your inbox  Sign up here 

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/Bk6tBI6?source_id=58e56216-e903-4045-ba67-1301e9344ae0&source_type=em&c=_27yQ8yxPJw4kvNZqcZcv7TDslZGodGT2-Qp2fLc6kcljWKxeJ1tbA==

 

 

---

 

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!

Apolytikion for Sun. of  St. Gregory Palamas in the Plagal Fourth Mode
Ὀρθοδοξίας ὁ φωστὴρ…
Light of Orthdoxy, pillar and teacher of the Church, adornment of monastics, invincible champion of theologians, O Gregory thou wonderworker, boast of Thessalonica, herald of grace: ever pray that our souls be saved.

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 Plagal Fourth Mode 
Τὴ ὑπερμάχω στρατηγῶ τὰ νικητήρια…
To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: “Hail, unwedded bride!”

 

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 First Letter to the Hebrews 1:10-14; 2:1-3

“IN THE BEGINNING, Thou, Lord, didst found the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of thy hands; they will perish, but thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed. But thou art the same, and thy years will never end.” But to what angel has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies a stool for thy feet?” Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?

Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For if the message declared by angels was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him.
The Reading is from Mark 2:1-12

At that time, Jesus entered Capernaum and it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “My son, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus? It is a blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic—”I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.” And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

 

---

 

Memorial Prayer

 

George Vlahos (6 months) survived by his goddaughter and niece, Jamie Makris, and great nephew Alexander Makris, and family.

 

Trisagion Prayer

 

Evangelos Iliakis (9 days) survived by his wife, 3 children, and 6 grandchildren.

Barbara Westlake (1 year) sister of Mary Ciuffo.

Robyn Pappas (4 years) survived by her husband Andy, sisters Judy and Bobbie, brothers Bob and Bill, and many nieces and nephews.

George Mehallis (15 years) husband of Mantha, father of Spero (Rocio), and grandfather of Lazaro.

Speros Vlahos (22 years) father of Mantha Mehallis, grandfather of Spero (Rocio) Mehallis, and great grandfather of Lazaro.

Antigone Catevenis (21 years) and Costas Catevenis (55 years) survived by his daughter Mary, and by his son James and family.

 

---

 

Announcements

 

Schedule of Church Services

• 3/26   Friday:                                                                   7pm                                    Salutations to the Theotokos
• 3/28   Sunday:                                                                  9am/10am                         Orthros/Divine Liturgy
• 4/02  Friday                                                                      7pm                                    Salutations to the Theotokos

 

Also, we are live streaming our services.

Visit https://stdemetrios.org/ where a link to the broadcast will be found.

 

---

 

Sunday School News

• Oratorical Festival

Congratulations to Grace Fitzwilliam, Nicholas Klonaris, and Jordan Klonaris for their inspiring presentations last Sunday.  They are moving on to the district level Oratorical Festival where we wish them much success.

 

---

 

Greek School News

Congratulations to the Greek School students for their presentation last Sunday!

 

---

 

Hellenic Initiative Events 

• Join the celebration of the 200 years of the Greek Revolution!

March 28 @ 6:00pm

“The War of Hellenic Independence” a presentation by Petros Tsingelis to be followed by Q&A. Petros will share how the Hellenes rose against their oppressors, European public opinion and political status. Their courage, struggle, suffering, sacrifices through the events that transpired will lead to a major shift in public opinion and political approach by the European powers. Their Intervention led to the creation of an Independent nation after almost 400 years of Ottoman rule. The role of enlightenment will also be discussed. For more information call Malvina 954-993-7456  For more information please contact Malvina 954-993-7456

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7382290353
Meeting ID: 738 229 0353

One tap mobile
+13462487799,,7382290353# US (Houston)
+16699009128,,7382290353# US (San Jose)

Dial by your location
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

Meeting ID: 738 229 0353

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.

 

---

 

Scholarship News

Applications for the Dr. Helene Tzitsikas Scholarship  for students enrolled in higher education as well as applications for St. Stephen’s Summer Camp are open.  More information about the Dr. Tzitsikas Scholarship can be found on the St. Demetrios website www.stdemetrios.org.  Information about St. Stephen’s Camp can be found on their website St. Stephen’s Summer Camp – Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta – Atlanta, GA (atlmetropolis.org)

Scholarship applications are available on line at the St. Demetrios website or call the Church Office 954-467-1515 Monday – Thursday.  Deadlines for all applications are May 1, 2021.

 

---

 

Stewardship

“…The Greatest Of These Is Love” 1 Cor 13:13

 

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of St. Demetrios Church. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings. Let’s Step Up our gifts of Time Talent and Treasure!

Please fill out a pledge form by either visiting https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/ or downloading this form.  You can make contributions towards your financial pledge by visiting https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ .

Thank you!

 

---

 

Philoptochos News

 

• A Pascha Bake Sale 

Dear Parishoners,

This has been a challenging year, to say the least, for our parish, loved ones, neighbors and the whole world. Now more than ever Philoptochos needs your help to support their many ministries. Last year we were not able to come together to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God willing, in a few short weeks we will be able to shout Χριστός Ανέστη, God is Risen all together as a St Demetrios family.
Philoptochos is having an Easter bake sale. Please consider buying from our delectable selection for your Easter table, to share with neighbors, the elderly that can no longer bake, co-workers and anyone else you would like to put a smile on their face.

Please complete the form below no later than March 31 and mail it to St. Demetrios Church, Attn: Philoptochos, 820 NE 14 Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.

Or,  visit https://ladies-philoptochos-of-st-demetrios.square.site/

 

 

• Membership          

Dear Ladies of St. Demetrios,
This has been a year like none other.  Many of us and our loved ones have faced illness, unemployment, and loneliness.  And yet the women of St. Demetrios have reached out to fill our spiritual, material, and emotional needs. It was women, through the Ladies Philoptochos, St. Elpis (Hope) chapter, who called to check on parishioners, got food and money to families who were suddenly unemployed, called and sent cards to the sick, reached out to our young people, and donated to the needs of greater Ft. Lauderdale.
But our patron St. Elpis wasn’t alone.  She was the daughter of Sophia (Wisdom) and the sister of Pistis (Faith) and Agape (Love).  To continue its work, Philoptochos needs ALL the wisdom, hope, faith, and love of ALL the women of St. Demetrios.
Please use the form below to join or renew for 2021.

 

---

 

Daughters of Penelope News

 

• Food Drive  The Daughters of Penelope are having an Easter Food Drive Drive thru Sunday, March 28th. Non perishable items or monetary donations will be greatly appreciated.
  • We have reached $ 565.00 of our $ 1,000.00 goal to donate to Feeding South Florida! $ 435.00 to go!! Daughter’s of Penelope – Narcissus Chapter 289 – Feeding South Florida’s Virtual Food Drive – FEEDING SOUTH FLORIDA (firstgiving.com)

 

• Membership Drive We would love to have you join our wonderful Chapter!!  Our next initiation will be in January 2021.  Please contact Erin Ryan at 954 683-6452 or eryan75@gmail.com

 

---

 

Mental Health Resources

Late last year, the Assembly of Bishops assembled a Mental Health Task Force to assist our Churches in this very important ministry to the faithful. I am therefore very pleased to announce that, as the result of the work of the Task Force, a National Directory of Orthodox Mental Health providers has been created. Visit  https://www.assemblyofbishops.org/directories/mental-health/ .
I join my fellow Hierarchs in thanking the Steering Committee of the Mental Health Task Force, and all those Orthodox Professionals who participated in the creation of this directory, so that it might help the greatest number of individuals.

Praying for the continued health of all, both in body and soul, I remain,

Paternally yours with love in Christ,

+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta

 

---

 

A Message from His Eminence Bishop Sevastianos

March 10, 2021

To the Reverend Clergy of the Metropolis of Atlanta:

My Brothers in Christ,

Looking forward to Lent, we are blessed to observe the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution for Independence on March 25th, 2021. As Hellenes in the United States are especially fortunate to live in a country whose own Revolution was not only inspired by the ideals of Ancient Greek Democracy, but later encouraged those patriots of 1821 to stand for freedom after 400 years of Occupation.

In recognition of this historic date, a special committee was tasked with organizing two major events in our Metropolis. The first will take place at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Tarpon Springs on March 25, (and can be viewed at www.stnicholastarpon.org/livestream).  This event shall feature special guest speakers speaking on topics such as the contributions of both Cyprus & America towards the Revolution.

The second event will follow on March 28th at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Atlanta (and can be viewed at www.atlgoc.org/live-stream), where the program will feature special presentations of, among other things, a recitation of the patriotic poem that inspired the Revolution, Θούριος του Ρήγα.

For more detailed information on both programs, please click here to view the specially prepared flyer, as well as the itineraries prepared for both events. To ensure the greatest possible participation for both events–which are distinct and will be live-streamed–we ask that our parishes please print the attachment to make use of it in your weekly bulletins, or else to transmit it through email.

Finally, the Greek Consul General of Tampa Bay has announced that a special concert presentation of the full text to the Hymn to Liberty by Dionysios Solomos, will also stream live from the Athens Concert Hall on March 25th at 2:30 PM ET. The concert, which is free to stream, can be accessed by clicking this link.

I pray that we will all take the time to view these programs, honoring the patriotism of our forefathers, and giving glory to God who gives us our freedom.

Yours with paternal love and blessings in the Lord,

+Bishop Sevastianos of Zela

 

---

 

Light a Candle & Say a Prayer at Saint Demetrios

 

“It is impossible to imagine an Orthodox church in which candles are not lit.”
(Blessed Simeon of Thessalonica, 15th Century) 

“I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) 

We know that at this time it can be difficult to pray from home and not physically be in the church. One of the first things most people do upon entering an Orthodox Church is to light their candle and offer prayers for one’s personal needs or that of a family member or friend, we also light candles to pray for protection and safety so that we may live this life without fear.

If you wish to light a candle, visit https://saintdemetrios.square.site After you select the candle(s) that you would like us to light and before pressing the “Place Order” button, please submit the names of your loved ones, those who are alive and/or those who have departed this life. During these times we would be happy to light the candle for you and read the names that have been submitted during the Divine Liturgy.

 

---

 

Dear St. Demetrios Family,

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Ft. Lauderdale is open to the faithful.  We are complying with all CDC, State, Local and Archdiocese guidelines.  Here is the list of things that will be taking place on Sundays.

1)  Everyone must wear a mask in order to enter the church.
2)  Before entering the church, the temperature of each person will be taken by a designated person. If the person’s temperature is above 100.4 F he or she will be kindly asked to return to their home, both for their safety and the safety of others.
3) Parish Council will direct each parishioner to the designated X in the pews for each person or household to sit starting in the front of the church and working their way to back.
4) A place to accept offerings will be provided in the Narthex upon entering or leaving.
5) Parishioners are not to move around the church during the services to light candles or venerate icons.
6) Names and phone numbers of each attendee at every service will be taken in the event that a subsequent infection requires tracing.
7) If you have any symptoms of coronavirus, COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell), you must NOT attend church, and immediately seek medical attention for yourself and your household.
8) Parishioners who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 as defined by civil authorities are given dispensation not to attend services and will be asked to refrain from attending.
9) In terms of preventing the spread of this virus, we ask parishioners to follow CDC directives, which currently include: washing of hands thoroughly and frequently, covering your coughs and sneezes, avoiding sharing personal items, wearing a mask, and maintaining a social distance of six feet.
10) Honor is to be shown to Holy Icons and the Holy Cross by only doing your cross and bowing, keeping in mind not to kiss or to touch the Holy Icons and the Holy Cross.
11) No one is to enter the Holy Altar except the clergy and assigned adult helpers.
12) For Memorials, please write the names of your deceased for the clergy to pray for their souls (without Koliva).
13) Artoclasias will be celebrated as normal.
14) No service books will be left out for common use. This includes papers of any kind (bulletins etc.). Parishioners are encouraged to bring their own service books.
15) During Holy Communion – Communicants must line up row by row (with help from Parish Council) and remain six feet apart using the designated social distancing X’s that have been placed in the church.  Communicants may remove their masks only momentarily to receive Holy Communion.
16)  For the continued safety of those attending church services in person, parishioners should immediately leave when the service is finished. For the sake of others, please do not socialize in the Narthex or other areas of the church or its surrounding buildings or parking lots. Additionally, Sunday Coffee Fellowship hours will be suspended until further notice.

Yours In Christ,
Fr. Peter Zougras

 

 

---

 

March 7, 2021 ~ Forgiveness Sunday

 

 

 

The Holy Fathers have appointed the commemoration of Adam’s exile from the Paradise of delight here, on the eve of the holy Forty-day Fast, demonstrating to us not by simple words, but by actual deeds, how beneficial fasting is for man, and how harmful and destructive are insatiety and the transgressing of the divine commandments. For the first commandment that God gave to man was that of fasting, which the first-fashioned received but did not keep; and not only did they not become gods, as they had imagined, but they lost even that blessed life which they had, and they fell into corruption and death, and transmitted these and innumerable other evils to all of mankind. The God-bearing Fathers set these things before us today, that by bringing to mind what we have fallen from, and what we have suffered because of the insatiety and disobedience of the first-fashioned, we might be diligent to return again to that ancient bliss and glory by means of fasting and obedience to all the divine commands. Taking occasion from today’s Gospel (Matt. 6:14-21) to begin the Fast unencumbered by enmity, we also ask forgiveness this day, first from God, then from one another and all creation.

 

Benedict the Righteous of Nursia 
Commemorated on March 14

 

This Saint, whose name means “blessed,” was born in 480 in Nursia, a small town about seventy miles northeast of Rome. He struggled in asceticism from his youth in deserted regions, where his example drew many who desired to emulate him. Hence, he ascended Mount Cassino in Campania and built a monastery there. The Rule that he gave his monks, which was inspired by the writings of Saint John Cassian, Saint Basil the Great, and other Fathers, became a pattern for monasticism in the West; because of this, he is often called the first teacher of monks in the West. He reposed in 547.

 

---

 

Liturgical Guide

 

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Grave Mode
Κατέλυσας τῷ Σταυρῷ σου τὸν θάνατον…
Thou didst abolish death by Thy Cross; Thou didst open Paradise to the thief; Thou didst transform the myrrh-bearers’ lamentation, and didst bid Thine Apostles to preach that Thou art risen, O Christ God, granting great mercy to the world.

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 Plagal Second Mode 
Τῆς σοφίας ὁδηγέ, φρονήσεως χορηγέ…
O Master, Prudence, Guide of Wisdom, Instruction to the foolish and Defender of the poor, strengthen my heart and grant it discernment. Give me words, Word of the Father, for behold, I shall not keep my lips from crying out to You, “O Merciful One, have mercy on me who has fallen.”

 

Prokeimenon. Plagal Fourth Mode. Psalm 75.11,1.
Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them.
Verse: God is known in Judah; his name is great in Israel.

 

The reading is from St. Paul’s First Letter to the Romans 13:11-14; 14:1-4..

Brethren, salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed; the night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

As for the man who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not for disputes over opinions. One believes he may eat anything, while the weak man eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who abstains, and let not him who abstains pass judgment on him who eats; for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for God is able to make him stand.
The Reading is from Matthew 6:14-21

The Lord said, “If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

“And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

---

 

Memorials

Argyro Louvaris (40 days) survived by her sons John, George and Steve and by her 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Kiriaki Giannopoulos (1 year) survived by her daughter Rita (Platon) Bakatselos, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Constantine Lycouris survived by his son Stephen and by his grandsons Alexander and Constantine.

 

---

 

Artoklasia

The Artoklasia, for the health of and in thanksgiving for the St. Demetrios Church Family, is offered by Klio Georgakakis.

 

---

 

Schedule of Church Services

• 3/14     Sunday:                                                         9am/10am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy
• 3/19     Friday:                                                          7pm                      Salutations to the Theotokos
• 3/20   Saturday of Souls:                                     9am/10am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy

 

Also, we are live streaming our services.

Visit https://stdemetrios.org/ where a link to the broadcast will be found.

 

---

 

Announcements

 

Celebration in Thanksgiving for our St. Demetrios Church Family

This Sunday, March 14, will mark the close of the Festival Replacement Fund campaign.  Join us as we chant the prayers of the Artoklasia service.
The rich have become poor and hungry: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.

If you would like to donate, you may mail a check to: (make sure to note Festival Replacement in the memo)
St. Demetrios Church
820 NE 14 Ave.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304

Or, visit   https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ , choose General Donation from the drop down menu and note “Festival Replacement” in the comment section.

 

---

 

Clean Up day

Join us on Saturday, March 20, after the Saturday of Souls service for a clean out of the classrooms.  We will move tables, chairs, desks, bookcases and supplies.  All this will be done in preparation for the classrooms renovation!

 

---

 

Mental Health Resources

Late last year, the Assembly of Bishops assembled a Mental Health Task Force to assist our Churches in this very important ministry to the faithful. I am therefore very pleased to announce that, as the result of the work of the Task Force, a National Directory of Orthodox Mental Health providers has been created. Visit  https://www.assemblyofbishops.org/directories/mental-health/ .

I join my fellow Hierarchs in thanking the Steering Committee of the Mental Health Task Force, and all those Orthodox Professionals who participated in the creation of this directory, so that it might help the greatest number of individuals.

Praying for the continued health of all, both in body and soul, I remain,

Paternally yours with love in Christ,

+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta

 

---

 

Resources for Lent, Holy Week and Pascha

 

Sign up here 

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/Bk6tBI6?source_id=58e56216-e903-4045-ba67-1301e9344ae0&source_type=em&c=_27yQ8yxPJw4kvNZqcZcv7TDslZGodGT2-Qp2fLc6kcljWKxeJ1tbA==

 

 

---

 

Saturdays of Souls

The Saturdays of Souls are March 6, March 13, and March 20.  Matins will start at 9:00am with Divine Liturgy following at 10:00am. You may reply to this email to list the names of your beloved who have fallen asleep in the Lord.  In order for them to be included, we must have the names by Wednesday prior to the Saturday Service.

 

---

 

Stewardship

“…The Greatest Of These Is Love” 1 Cor 13:13

 

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of St. Demetrios Church. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings. Let’s Step Up our gifts of Time Talent and Treasure!

Please fill out a pledge form by either visiting https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/ or downloading this form.  You can make contributions towards your financial pledge by visiting https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ .

Thank you!

 

---

 

Sunday School News

• Oratorical Festival

The St. Demetrios Oratorical Festival is set for Sunday, March 21. The event will take place after liturgy in the church. To learn more, students and parents may contact James W. Carras at jameswcarras@gmail.com. Below are the topics. Visit https://www.goarch.org/en/oratorical for tips and resources on the topics, the rules, the various scholarship opportunities, and the Metropolis level and Archdiocese level dates.

Junior Division (Grades 7–9) Topics

1. Discuss the challenges and opportunities of watching a church service that is live streamed.
2. Prayer is called a “conversation with God.” Discuss the meaning of prayer in your life.
3. During the pandemic, people noticed that our natural environment became cleaner. What can this teach us about our care for the natural world?
4. Why is the Church still relevant, especially for young people, in our increasingly secular, post-COVID world?
5. Choose one parable from the Gospel of Luke chapters 15 or 16 that is particularly meaningful to you and explain what we can learn from it.

Senior Division (Grades 10–12) Topics

1. During the stay at home period of the pandemic, Orthodox Christians had to find ways to practice their faith without attending church in person or participating in parish activities. Discuss what you learned during those days.
2. In July 2020, a Turkish court gave permission for Hagia Sophia to be converted from a museum into a mosque. Discuss the significance of Hagia Sophia in the history of Christianity and the power of monuments like it to inspire religious identity.
3. We live in a highly polarized society – left vs. right, personal liberty vs. common good, and other issues where it seems everything is politicized. How are we as Orthodox Christians called to navigate this environment?
4. St. Peter writes, “Live as free men, yet without using your freedom as a pretext for evil; but live as servants of God.” (1 Peter 2:16). What is freedom and how does it become a basis for being a servant?
5. In the Psalms we read, “If you, Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you.” (Psalm 130:3-4, NRSV). Discuss how an Orthodox Christian understands sin, forgiveness, mercy, and repentance.

 

---

 

Scholarship News

Applications for the Dr. Helene Tzitsikas Scholarship  for students enrolled in higher education as well as applications for St. Stephen’s Summer Camp are open.  More information about the Dr. Tzitsikas Scholarship can be found on the St. Demetrios website www.stdemetrios.org.  Information about St. Stephen’s Camp can be found on their website St. Stephen’s Summer Camp – Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta – Atlanta, GA (atlmetropolis.org)

Scholarship applications are available on line at the St. Demetrios website or call the Church Office 954-467-1515 Monday – Thursday.  Deadlines for all applications are May 1, 2021.

 

---

 

Hellenic Initiative Events 

In Celebration of the bicentennial of the Greek Revolution, join us for the March 14 and March 28 online live events.

On Sunday March 14 at 3:00 pm join a conversation with Professor Anthony Kaldellis titled “Loving Greek Culture in Byzantium: Hellenism in Byzantium”.  After the presentation an informal coffee hour will follow. In this conversation – “Loving Greek Culture in New Rome: Hellenism in Byzantium” – Young Richard Kim will discuss with Anthony Kaldellis, Professor of Classics, The Ohio State University, the persistence and perseverance of Greek culture in the eastern Roman Empire, known today as the Byzantine Empire. They will explore what (Phil)Hellenism meant to the people of the Byzantine world, especially its complicated relationship with Christianity. They will also consider how the idea of Byzantium influenced the Greeks on the eve of the Revolution.

To join the live event ONLY  follow the links
https://www.facebook.com/events/546083732974571/
https://fb.me/e/23T3fjIaX

To join the event AND the coffee hour OR the Coffee Hour only
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7382290353

For more information call Malvina 954-993-7456

The March 14 event is under the auspices of the Embassy of Greece in the USA and in collaboration with the Classics and Mediterranean Studies Department at the University of Illinois Chicago, HALC, the Metropolis of Chicago, the Foundation for Hellenic Studies, Illinois, and the Consulate General of Greece in Chicago part of the series “Philhellenism through the Ages,” a series that explores the impress and influence of Hellenic Culture from antiquity to the present.

For those unable to attend on March 14, please mark your calendar for a special presentation on March 28at 6:00 pm!

 

---

 

A Message from His Eminence Bishop Sevastianos

March 10, 2021

To the Reverend Clergy of the Metropolis of Atlanta:

My Brothers in Christ,

Looking forward to Lent, we are blessed to observe the 200th anniversary of the Greek Revolution for Independence on March 25th, 2021. As Hellenes in the United States are especially fortunate to live in a country whose own Revolution was not only inspired by the ideals of Ancient Greek Democracy, but later encouraged those patriots of 1821 to stand for freedom after 400 years of Occupation.

In recognition of this historic date, a special committee was tasked with organizing two major events in our Metropolis. The first will take place at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas in Tarpon Springs on March 25, (and can be viewed at www.stnicholastarpon.org/livestream).  This event shall feature special guest speakers speaking on topics such as the contributions of both Cyprus & America towards the Revolution.

The second event will follow on March 28th at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Atlanta (and can be viewed at www.atlgoc.org/live-stream), where the program will feature special presentations of, among other things, a recitation of the patriotic poem that inspired the Revolution, Θούριος του Ρήγα.

For more detailed information on both programs, please click here to view the specially prepared flyer, as well as the itineraries prepared for both events. To ensure the greatest possible participation for both events–which are distinct and will be live-streamed–we ask that our parishes please print the attachment to make use of it in your weekly bulletins, or else to transmit it through email.

Finally, the Greek Consul General of Tampa Bay has announced that a special concert presentation of the full text to the Hymn to Liberty by Dionysios Solomos, will also stream live from the Athens Concert Hall on March 25th at 2:30 PM ET. The concert, which is free to stream, can be accessed by clicking this link.

I pray that we will all take the time to view these programs, honoring the patriotism of our forefathers, and giving glory to God who gives us our freedom.

Yours with paternal love and blessings in the Lord,

+Bishop Sevastianos of Zela

 

---

 

Philoptochos News

 

• Coming Soon- A Pascha Bake Sale 

Plan to buy your tsourekia, pitas, and sweets from St. Demetrios Philoptochos, and help us help the needy.  Look for a flyer in the bulletin and in your mailbox.

 

• Metropolis Philoptochos Spiritual Retreat
  

The annual Metropolis Philoptochos Spiritual Retreat will be virtual this year, so we can engage with popular Orthodox author Federica Matthews-Greene and have fellowship with other women from across the Metropolis without the long trek to the Diakonia Center,

All women are invited.  See the flyer attached and click here to register  https://atlmetropolis.org/virtual-spiritual-retreat-2021

Matthews-Greene has written 10 books on the Greek Orthodox faith, and is Khouria/Presvytera at Holy Cross Antiochian Church in Baltimore.

 

• Membership          

Dear Ladies of St. Demetrios,
This has been a year like none other.  Many of us and our loved ones have faced illness, unemployment, and loneliness.  And yet the women of St. Demetrios have reached out to fill our spiritual, material, and emotional needs. It was women, through the Ladies Philoptochos, St. Elpis (Hope) chapter, who called to check on parishioners, got food and money to families who were suddenly unemployed, called and sent cards to the sick, reached out to our young people, and donated to the needs of greater Ft. Lauderdale.
But our patron St. Elpis wasn’t alone.  She was the daughter of Sophia (Wisdom) and the sister of Pistis (Faith) and Agape (Love).  To continue its work, Philoptochos needs ALL the wisdom, hope, faith, and love of ALL the women of St. Demetrios.
Please use the form below to join or renew for 2021.

 

• National Philoptochos Department of Social Services

---

 

Daughters of Penelope News

 

• Food Drive The Daughters of Penelope are having an Easter Food Drive Drive starting Sunday, February 28th thru March 28th. Non perishable items, grocery store gift cards or monetary donations will be greatly appreciated.

 

• Membership Drive We would love to have you join our wonderful Chapter!!  Our next initiation will be in January 2021.  Please contact Erin Ryan at 954 683-6452 or eryan75@gmail.com

 

---

 

AHEPA News

• Comedy Night

---

 

 

Light a Candle & Say a Prayer at Saint Demetrios

 

“It is impossible to imagine an Orthodox church in which candles are not lit.”
(Blessed Simeon of Thessalonica, 15th Century) 

“I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) 

We know that at this time it can be difficult to pray from home and not physically be in the church. One of the first things most people do upon entering an Orthodox Church is to light their candle and offer prayers for one’s personal needs or that of a family member or friend, we also light candles to pray for protection and safety so that we may live this life without fear.

If you wish to light a candle, visit https://saintdemetrios.square.site After you select the candle(s) that you would like us to light and before pressing the “Place Order” button, please submit the names of your loved ones, those who are alive and/or those who have departed this life. During these times we would be happy to light the candle for you and read the names that have been submitted during the Divine Liturgy.

 

---

 

Dear St. Demetrios Family,

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Ft. Lauderdale is open to the faithful.  We are complying with all CDC, State, Local and Archdiocese guidelines.  Here is the list of things that will be taking place on Sundays.

1)  Everyone must wear a mask in order to enter the church.
2)  Before entering the church, the temperature of each person will be taken by a designated person. If the person’s temperature is above 100.4 F he or she will be kindly asked to return to their home, both for their safety and the safety of others.
3) Parish Council will direct each parishioner to the designated X in the pews for each person or household to sit starting in the front of the church and working their way to back.
4) A place to accept offerings will be provided in the Narthex upon entering or leaving.
5) Parishioners are not to move around the church during the services to light candles or venerate icons.
6) Names and phone numbers of each attendee at every service will be taken in the event that a subsequent infection requires tracing.
7) If you have any symptoms of coronavirus, COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell), you must NOT attend church, and immediately seek medical attention for yourself and your household.
8) Parishioners who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 as defined by civil authorities are given dispensation not to attend services and will be asked to refrain from attending.
9) In terms of preventing the spread of this virus, we ask parishioners to follow CDC directives, which currently include: washing of hands thoroughly and frequently, covering your coughs and sneezes, avoiding sharing personal items, wearing a mask, and maintaining a social distance of six feet.
10) Honor is to be shown to Holy Icons and the Holy Cross by only doing your cross and bowing, keeping in mind not to kiss or to touch the Holy Icons and the Holy Cross.
11) No one is to enter the Holy Altar except the clergy and assigned adult helpers.
12) For Memorials, please write the names of your deceased for the clergy to pray for their souls (without Koliva).
13) Artoclasias will be celebrated as normal.
14) No service books will be left out for common use. This includes papers of any kind (bulletins etc.). Parishioners are encouraged to bring their own service books.
15) During Holy Communion – Communicants must line up row by row (with help from Parish Council) and remain six feet apart using the designated social distancing X’s that have been placed in the church.  Communicants may remove their masks only momentarily to receive Holy Communion.
16)  For the continued safety of those attending church services in person, parishioners should immediately leave when the service is finished. For the sake of others, please do not socialize in the Narthex or other areas of the church or its surrounding buildings or parking lots. Additionally, Sunday Coffee Fellowship hours will be suspended until further notice.

Yours In Christ,
Fr. Peter Zougras

 

 

---

 

February 28, 2021~ Sunday of the Prodigal Son~ 

 

 

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

 

Through the parable of today’s Gospel, our Saviour has set forth three things for us: the condition of the sinner, the rule of repentance, and the greatness of God’s compassion. The divine Fathers have put this reading the week after the parable of the Publican and Pharisee so that, seeing in the person of the Prodigal Son our own wretched condition — inasmuch as we are sunken in sin, far from God and His Mysteries — we might at last come to our senses and make haste to return to Him by repentance during these holy days of the Fast.

Furthermore, those who have wrought many great iniquities, and have persisted in them for a long time, oftentimes fall into despair, thinking that there can no longer be any forgiveness for them; and so being without hope, they fall every day into the same and even worse iniquities. Therefore, the divine Fathers, that they might root out the passion of despair from the hearts of such people, and rouse them to the deeds of virtue, have set the present parable at the forecourts of the Fast, to show them the surpassing goodness of God’s compassion, and to teach them that there is no sin — no matter how great it may be — that can overcome at any time His love for man.

 

---

 

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.

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 
Τῆς πατρῴας, δόξης σου…
O Father, foolishly I ran away from Your glory, and in sin, squandered the riches You gave me. Wherefore, I cry out to You with the voice of the Prodigal, “I have sinned before You Compassionate Father. Receive me in repentance and take me as one of Your hired servants.”

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 First Letter to the Corinthians 6:12-20

Brethren, “all things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything. “Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food” — and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I therefore take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two shall become one flesh.” But he who is united to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Shun immorality. Every other sin which a man commits is outside the body; but the immoral man sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body and in your spirit which belong to God.
The Reading is from Luke 15:11-32

The Lord said this parable: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have filled his belly with the pods that the swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to make merry. Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.'”

---

 

Memorial Prayer

Maria Papastamatis (6 months) survived by her husband George, sons Michael and Alexander (Maria), and granddaughter Christina.

Trisagion Prayer

Symeon Stewart (40 days) remembered by his friend Dimitra.

Patricia G. Makris (25 yrs), Constantine G. Makris (27 yrs), Irene W. Georgitson 30 yrs), survived by Barbara, Katina, and Jacob C. Hollander.

 

---

 

Schedule of Church Services

• 2/28  Sunday:                                                         9am/10am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy
• 3/6    Saturday of Souls:                                     9am/10am          Orthros/Divine Liturgy

 

Also, we are live streaming our services.

Visit https://stdemetrios.org/ where a link to the broadcast will be found.

 

---

 

Announcements

 

Parish Council News

This Sunday, February 28, the Parish Council will be sworn in for the new year.  We thank them for their service to our community.

Dr. George Georgakakis-President
Harry Tangalakis-Vice President
Garry Paxinos-Treasurer
Bill Ypsilantis-Assistant Treasurer
Karyl Zitis-Secretary
Marion Koliniatis-Assistant Secretary
Mona Monezis Kapakos
Larry Kirifides
Peter Kokkinos
Anna Nicholas
Philip Vias
Mark Zaden
Kathy Ziegler

 

---

 

Mental Health Resources

Late last year, the Assembly of Bishops assembled a Mental Health Task Force to assist our Churches in this very important ministry to the faithful. I am therefore very pleased to announce that, as the result of the work of the Task Force, a National Directory of Orthodox Mental Health providers has been created. Visit  https://www.assemblyofbishops.org/directories/mental-health/ .

I join my fellow Hierarchs in thanking the Steering Committee of the Mental Health Task Force, and all those Orthodox Professionals who participated in the creation of this directory, so that it might help the greatest number of individuals.

Praying for the continued health of all, both in body and soul, I remain,

Paternally yours with love in Christ,

+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta

 

---

 

Saturdays of Souls

The Saturdays of Souls are March 6, March 13, and March 20.  Matins will start at 9:00am with Divine Liturgy following at 10:00am. You may reply to this email to list the names of your beloved who have fallen asleep in the Lord.  In order for them to be included, we must have the names by Wednesday prior to the Saturday Service.

 

---

 

Stewardship

“…The Greatest Of These Is Love” 1 Cor 13:13

 

We ask you to support the worship, service and activities of St. Demetrios Church. Giving to His Church is a way to thank God for His grace, His generosity and His many blessings. Let’s Step Up our gifts of Time Talent and Treasure!

Please fill out a pledge form by either visiting https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/ or downloading this form.  You can make contributions towards your financial pledge by visiting https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ .

Thank you!

 

---

 

St. Demetrios Festival Replacement 

 

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. Demetrios Church

Our annual Greek Festival has unfortunately been canceled this year.  The Parish Council and Father Peter came to this decision after a lot of debate.

Prior to making this decision we actually did study what many other communities had done this past summer and fall as alternatives to their traditional festivals.  Most put on a drive through food only festival.  Our festival planning committee actually met 3 times this fall to begin planning just such an event.  Unfortunately, we discovered that there will be ongoing construction on the sewer system in front of the church through the summer of 2021.

Each year our community counts on the Greek Festival to raise the $95,000 necessary to balance our budget and continue the ministry of Saint Demetrios.  Our community cannot survive without these funds.  Borrowing money for operating expenses is out of the question. The Parish Council and Father Peter therefore came up with the following strategy to procure the necessary monies.
Drs. Joyce and Anthony Kales and Dr. George Georgakakis would each donate $10,000.  In addition, the community would use a portion of it’s annual gift from the William and Bridget Eaton Partalis Family Trust.  We would also ask 10 parishioners to support what we are calling the “Saint Demetrios Festival Replacement Fund” with individual donations of $1,000.  The remaining estimated $40,000 would hopefully be raised by asking each of our 260 parishioners to consider contributing $160 to the Festival Replacement Fund.  This would get us to our goal of $95,000

At our Winter General Assembly meeting last month we actually had 11 parishioners step up and offer to be $1000 donors.  Since that time we have been blessed with several more such donors.

We now humbly ask all of our Saint Demetrios family to please consider coming to the aid of our parish in this time of great need.  Your gift of $160 will help ensure that our church survives this upcoming year in spite of all the unknowns associated with the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.  Your gift ensures that Saint Demetrios will remain a healthy and vibrant Christian community when the world returns to normalcy.  Please help Saint Demetrios continue its vitally important ministry.

Thank you!
You may mail a check to: (make sure to note Festival Replacement in the memo)

St. Demetrios Church
820 NE 14 Ave.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304

Or, visit   https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ , choose General Donation from the drop down menu and note “Festival Replacement” in the comment section.

 

---

 

Sunday School News

• Oratorical Festival

The St. Demetrios Oratorical Festival is set for Sunday, March 21. The event will take place after liturgy in the church. To learn more, students and parents may contact James W. Carras at jameswcarras@gmail.com. Below are the topics. Visit https://www.goarch.org/en/oratorical for tips and resources on the topics, the rules, the various scholarship opportunities, and the Metropolis level and Archdiocese level dates.

Junior Division (Grades 7–9) Topics

1. Discuss the challenges and opportunities of watching a church service that is live streamed.
2. Prayer is called a “conversation with God.” Discuss the meaning of prayer in your life.
3. During the pandemic, people noticed that our natural environment became cleaner. What can this teach us about our care for the natural world?
4. Why is the Church still relevant, especially for young people, in our increasingly secular, post-COVID world?
5. Choose one parable from the Gospel of Luke chapters 15 or 16 that is particularly meaningful to you and explain what we can learn from it.

Senior Division (Grades 10–12) Topics

1. During the stay at home period of the pandemic, Orthodox Christians had to find ways to practice their faith without attending church in person or participating in parish activities. Discuss what you learned during those days.
2. In July 2020, a Turkish court gave permission for Hagia Sophia to be converted from a museum into a mosque. Discuss the significance of Hagia Sophia in the history of Christianity and the power of monuments like it to inspire religious identity.
3. We live in a highly polarized society – left vs. right, personal liberty vs. common good, and other issues where it seems everything is politicized. How are we as Orthodox Christians called to navigate this environment?
4. St. Peter writes, “Live as free men, yet without using your freedom as a pretext for evil; but live as servants of God.” (1 Peter 2:16). What is freedom and how does it become a basis for being a servant?
5. In the Psalms we read, “If you, Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you.” (Psalm 130:3-4, NRSV). Discuss how an Orthodox Christian understands sin, forgiveness, mercy, and repentance.

 

---

 

Scholarship News

Applications for the Dr. Helene Tzitsikas Scholarship  for students enrolled in higher education as well as applications for St. Stephen’s Summer Camp are open.  More information about the Dr. Tzitsikas Scholarship can be found on the St. Demetrios website www.stdemetrios.org.  Information about St. Stephen’s Camp can be found on their website St. Stephen’s Summer Camp – Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta – Atlanta, GA (atlmetropolis.org)
Scholarship applications are available on line at the St. Demetrios website or call the Church Office 954-467-1515 Monday – Thursday.  Deadlines for all applications are May 1, 2021.

 

---

 

Philoptochos News

 

• Metropolis Philoptochos Spiritual Retreat
  

The annual Metropolis Philoptochos Spiritual Retreat will be virtual this year, so we can engage with popular Orthodox author Federica Matthews-Greene and have fellowship with other women from across the Metropolis without the long trek to the Diakonia Center,

All women are invited.  See the flyer attached and click here to register  https://atlmetropolis.org/virtual-spiritual-retreat-2021

Matthews-Greene has written 10 books on the Greek Orthodox faith, and is Khouria/Presvytera at Holy Cross Antiochian Church in Baltimore.

 

• Membership          

Dear Ladies of St. Demetrios,
This has been a year like none other.  Many of us and our loved ones have faced illness, unemployment, and loneliness.  And yet the women of St. Demetrios have reached out to fill our spiritual, material, and emotional needs. It was women, through the Ladies Philoptochos, St. Elpis (Hope) chapter, who called to check on parishioners, got food and money to families who were suddenly unemployed, called and sent cards to the sick, reached out to our young people, and donated to the needs of greater Ft. Lauderdale.
But our patron St. Elpis wasn’t alone.  She was the daughter of Sophia (Wisdom) and the sister of Pistis (Faith) and Agape (Love).  To continue its work, Philoptochos needs ALL the wisdom, hope, faith, and love of ALL the women of St. Demetrios.
Please use the form below to join or renew for 2021.

 

• National Philoptochos Department of Social Services

---

 

Daughters of Penelope News

 

• Food Drive The Daughters of Penelope are having an Easter Food Drive Drive starting Sunday, February 28th thru March 28th. Non perishable items, grocery store gift cards or monetary donations will be greatly appreciated.

 

• Membership Drive We would love to have you join our wonderful Chapter!!  Our next initiation will be in January 2021.  Please contact Erin Ryan at 954 683-6452 or eryan75@gmail.com.
   
• Virtual Bingo

 

---

 

AHEPA News

• Comedy Night

---

 

Creative Expression and Research Contest

---

Light a Candle & Say a Prayer at Saint Demetrios

 

“It is impossible to imagine an Orthodox church in which candles are not lit.”
(Blessed Simeon of Thessalonica, 15th Century) 

“I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) 

We know that at this time it can be difficult to pray from home and not physically be in the church. One of the first things most people do upon entering an Orthodox Church is to light their candle and offer prayers for one’s personal needs or that of a family member or friend, we also light candles to pray for protection and safety so that we may live this life without fear.

If you wish to light a candle, visit https://saintdemetrios.square.site After you select the candle(s) that you would like us to light and before pressing the “Place Order” button, please submit the names of your loved ones, those who are alive and/or those who have departed this life. During these times we would be happy to light the candle for you and read the names that have been submitted during the Divine Liturgy.

 

---

 

Dear St. Demetrios Family,

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Ft. Lauderdale is open to the faithful.  We are complying with all CDC, State, Local and Archdiocese guidelines.  Here is the list of things that will be taking place on Sundays.

1)  Everyone must wear a mask in order to enter the church.
2)  Before entering the church, the temperature of each person will be taken by a designated person. If the person’s temperature is above 100.4 F he or she will be kindly asked to return to their home, both for their safety and the safety of others.
3) Parish Council will direct each parishioner to the designated X in the pews for each person or household to sit starting in the front of the church and working their way to back.
4) A place to accept offerings will be provided in the Narthex upon entering or leaving.
5) Parishioners are not to move around the church during the services to light candles or venerate icons.
6) Names and phone numbers of each attendee at every service will be taken in the event that a subsequent infection requires tracing.
7) If you have any symptoms of coronavirus, COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell), you must NOT attend church, and immediately seek medical attention for yourself and your household.
8) Parishioners who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 as defined by civil authorities are given dispensation not to attend services and will be asked to refrain from attending.
9) In terms of preventing the spread of this virus, we ask parishioners to follow CDC directives, which currently include: washing of hands thoroughly and frequently, covering your coughs and sneezes, avoiding sharing personal items, wearing a mask, and maintaining a social distance of six feet.
10) Honor is to be shown to Holy Icons and the Holy Cross by only doing your cross and bowing, keeping in mind not to kiss or to touch the Holy Icons and the Holy Cross.
11) No one is to enter the Holy Altar except the clergy and assigned adult helpers.
12) For Memorials, please write the names of your deceased for the clergy to pray for their souls (without Koliva).
13) Artoclasias will be celebrated as normal.
14) No service books will be left out for common use. This includes papers of any kind (bulletins etc.). Parishioners are encouraged to bring their own service books.
15) During Holy Communion – Communicants must line up row by row (with help from Parish Council) and remain six feet apart using the designated social distancing X’s that have been placed in the church.  Communicants may remove their masks only momentarily to receive Holy Communion.
16)  For the continued safety of those attending church services in person, parishioners should immediately leave when the service is finished. For the sake of others, please do not socialize in the Narthex or other areas of the church or its surrounding buildings or parking lots. Additionally, Sunday Coffee Fellowship hours will be suspended until further notice.

Yours In Christ,
Fr. Peter Zougras