The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, February 16th, 2025

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 

 


 

 

Sunday, February 16, 2025

 

 

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 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 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.”
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 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.

 

Gospel Reading

 

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

 

Panayiotis Legatos (2 years) Survived by his wife Eleni Legatos.

Helen Gatsonis (3 years) Survived by her daughter Liz Gatsonis.

Neophytos Demetriou (5 years) Survived by his children Andreas, Victor, Georgia, and Tony, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Michael Homatas (5 years) Survived by his loving wife Stacy, nieces, nephews, cousins.

 

 


Baby Blessing

Yiannis and Hallie Neocleous present Alexia for the 40 day mother and baby blessing.

 

 


Announcements

Coffee Hour In loving memory of her mother Helen Gatsonis, Liz Gatsonis has sponsored today’s coffee hour.

 


Annual Festival

Filotimo & Filoxenia are the foundation of our Annual Ft Lauderdale Greek Festival.  This year, over 300 of St Demetrios’ phenominal volunteers united to host over 9,000 guests in the span of three and a half days.   Multiple generations worked diligently and with joy for weeks-months in advance, cooking, baking, rehearsing dances, preparing costumes, polishing Spartan armor, contacting news media, creating social media, crafting emails, decorating, wiring for power, clearing out closets, freezers and storage units, placing orders, setting up booths, entertainment and eating areas, participating in meetings after working all day at home and/or work…and best of all everyone took time to reconnect with friends and family and invited them to join in the celebration. Perhaps you will join us next year.  Below is a link to our post festival survey.  Please take a moment to share what you appreciate about the festival along with your recommendations, ideas on how to be even better.  We continue to grow and improve every year.  The success we have been blessed with was made possible thanks greatly to our dedicated volunteers!  Here is the link to the festival surveyhttps://forms.office.com/r/U9D6xFwTQf

 


Altar Help Wanted

Father Peter needs help in the altar on Sundays and with Sacraments. Compensation is available subject to ability and time provided. If interested and for more information, please speak with Fr. Peter or a Parish Council member.

 

 


Agape

You and your friends are cordially invited to the Agape fellowship at 11:30 AM on Tuesday 2/18/25. As always, Chef Manos, sous chef Bessie Manos, salad specialist Eva Planakis and their crew will prepare a delectable meal. Snacks, refreshments coffee and dessert will complete this special culinary experience. Entrance $10.00


Pap Corps

Pap Corps Chapter meeting – Wednesday 2/19/25 at 3P

 


Philoptochos News 

SAVE THESE DATES: 
“STOP FALLS BEFORE THEY STOP YOU”!   Losing your balance and falls are a leading cause of injury among adults, but they don’t have to be.  Join us for a FREE informative talk on fall prevention, presented by Dr. Ryan Shipley, DPT, CSCS.
Dr. Shipley is a dedicated physical therapist with over 8 years of experience.  He has worked with a diverse range of patients from post-operative individuals to professional athletes, focusing on functional movement and injury prevention.
Open to everyone. Thursday, February 20th promptly @ 7:00pm, doors open @ 6:30pm.  Kandaras Hall.  Q & A to follow with light refreshments.  Bring a friend.  No admission!  Sponsored by Philoptochos.  For questions see Athena Loucas or Juanita Antley.
BINGO…SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, AT 12 NOON.  Doors open at 11:30am. Join us for the WINTER BINGO Games.
Get 2 BINGO cards at the door for $7.00.  Many gift prizes, 50/50 raffle, plus refreshments. Supporting Covenant House and other local charities.  Invite your neighbors and friends.  Join us for a relaxing afternoon of fun, family, friends, & food!!  Sponsored by Philoptochos.  See you on Saturday, February 22nd, at 11:30am.

HDF Meeting
The DAC/HDF will hold a 2026 planning meeting for Parents on Sunday, March 2nd after church.
This event is for all families who want to attend in 2026 or want to learn more about the 2026 HDF event.

Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid  your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.We remind everyone to pledge for year 2025.  Please send in the stewardship form you received in the mail or pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 


 


           


 

 

 

 



 


 

Calendar

 

 

Sunday             2/16      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School

Monday           2/17   

4:15pm-6:00pm                 Greek School
7:00pm                                Intermediate Greek-Online

Tuesday           2/18
11:30am                               Agape Luncheon

Wednesday    2/19
3:00pm                                Pap Corps meeting

Thursday        2/20
6:30pm                               Philoptochos “Stop Falls” Presentation. All are welcome
7:00pm-9:00pm              Advanced Greek-Online

Friday              2/21
7:00pm                              AHEPA Comedy Night

Saturday         2/22      Saturday of Souls
9:00am/10:00am            Orthros/Divine Liturgy
11:30am                             BINGO
4:30pm                              Hope and Joy Movie Night

Sunday            2/23      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, February 9th, 2025

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 

 


 

 

Sunday, February 9, 2025

 

 

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today

The Pharisees were an ancient and outstanding sect among the Jews known for their diligent observance of the outward matters of the Law.  Although, according to the word of our Lord, they “did all their works to be seen of men” (Matt. 23:5), and were hypocrites (ibid. 23: 13, 14, 15, etc.), because of the apparent holiness of their lives they were thought by all to be righteous, and separate from others, which is what the name Pharisee means.  On the other hand, Publicans, collectors of the royal taxes, committed many injustices and extortions and all held them to be sinners and unjust.  It was therefore according to common opinion that the Lord Jesus in His parable signified a virtuous person by a Pharisee, and a sinner by a Publican, to teach His disciples the harm of pride and the profit of humble-mindedness.
Since the chief weapon for virtue is humility, and the greatest hindrance to it is pride, the divine Fathers have set these three weeks before the Forty-day Fast as a preparation for the spiritual struggles of virtue. This present week they have called Harbinger, since it declares that the Fast is approaching; and they set humility as the foundation for all our spiritual labors by appointing that the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee be read today, even before the Fast begins, to teach, through the vaunting of the Pharisee, that boasting drives away the grace of the Spirit, and strips man of all his virtue; and, through the repentance and contrite prayer of the Publican, that humility confers upon the sinner forgiveness and raises him up to the greatest heights.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 Apodosis of the Presentation in the First Mode
Χαῖρε κεχαριτωμένη Θεοτόκε Παρθένε…
Rejoice, thou who art full of grace, O Virgin Theotokos, for from thee hath risen the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God, enlightening those in darkness.  Rejoice, thou also, O righteous Elder, as thou receivest in thine arms the Redeemer of our souls, Who also granteth unto us the Resurrection.
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 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 Second Letter to Timothy 3:10-15

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

Gospel Reading

 

Luke 18:10-14

The Lord said this parable, “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.  The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.  I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.’  But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

 


Trisagion Prayer

 

Efstratios Planakis (6 years) beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend is survived by Clare, Chris, Andreas, Beth, Lucas, Chloe, Nikos and Alexandra, Koula and Eftstratia.

Mary George (21 years), Thomas G. Peters, MD (35 years), Anthoula Zamanis (37 years) Survived by Effie Peters George, Anthony George, Helene Peters Dameris and family.

Elias Aspras (33 years), Anthony Aspras (40 years) Husband and son of Alice Aspras.

 

 


Announcements

Coffee Hour In memory of her father, Efstratios Planakis, Clare Winkel has sponsored the coffee hour.

 


Altar Help Wanted
Father Peter needs help in the altar on Sundays and with Sacraments. Compensation is available subject to ability and time provided. If interested and for more information, please speak with Fr. Peter or a Parish Council member.

 


Thank You A big “Thank you” to everyone who helped make the Festival a success!

 


Philoptochos News 

SAVE THESE DATES: 
“STOP FALLS BEFORE THEY STOP YOU”!   Losing your balance and falls are a leading cause of injury among adults, but they don’t have to be.  Join us for a FREE informative talk on fall prevention, presented by Dr. Ryan Shipley, DPT, CSCS.
Dr. Shipley is a dedicated physical therapist with over 8 years of experience.  He has worked with a diverse range of patients from post-operative individuals to professional athletes, focusing on functional movement and injury prevention.
Open to everyone. Thursday, February 20th promptly @ 7:00pm, doors open @ 6:30pm.  Kandaras Hall.  Q & A to follow with light refreshments.  Bring a friend.  No admission!  Sponsored by Philoptochos.  For questions see Athena Loucas or Juanita Antley.

BINGO…SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, AT 12 NOON.  Doors open at 11:30am. Join us for the WINTER BINGO Games.
Get 2 BINGO cards at the door for $7.00.  Many gift prizes, 50/50 raffle, plus refreshments. Supporting Covenant House and other local charities.  Invite your neighbors and friends.  Join us for a relaxing afternoon of fun, family, friends, & food!!  Sponsored by Philoptochos.  See you on Saturday, February 22nd, at 11:30am.

Thank You!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the Ladies of Philoptochos who donated their time baking, filling sample boxes and assisting at Yaya’s Bakery during the St. Demetrios Festival.  Your time and talents helped to make the entire festival possible and successful. A special Thank You to Lisa Pedonomou for her ability to make our booth look so beautiful and appetizing. She and her team including but not limited to Ligda Henriquez, Stella Androutsopoulos, Bessie Manos, Mario P., Kallie Hanlon and Anna Papadakos.  Those ladies spent hours in the heat of the prep tent getting products ready for sale.  Also, Thank You to Everyone who helped us in our bakery waiting on customers and cashing them out.  Last but not least are all the others who helped all of us: Parish Council, Kitchen Staff, Decorations, Students, Bill’s men and ladies who helped with set up, clean up and assorted acts of kindness to help everyone. If I have forgotten anyone, God knows who you are. May God bless you all.
Juanita Antley,President St. Demetrios Ladies Philoptochos Society.

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid  your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.

We remind everyone to pledge for year 2025.  Please send in the stewardship form you received in the mail or pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.
             


 

 

 

 


 

 




 


 

Calendar

 

 

Sunday              2/9      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Liturgy                      GOYA Superbowl of Caring
After Communion             Sunday School
12:30pm                              GOYA meeting

Monday           2/10   

4:15pm-6:00pm                 Greek School
7:00pm                                Intermediate Greek-Online

Thursday        2/13
12:00pm                              Philoptochos board meeting
7:00pm-9:00pm               Advanced Greek-Online

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, February 2nd, 2025

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 

 


 

 

Sunday, February 2, 2025

 

 

Presentation of our Lord

 

When the most pure Mother and Ever-Virgin Mary’s forty days of purification had been fulfilled, she took her first-born Son to Jerusalem on this, the fortieth day after His birth, that she might present Him in the temple according to the Law of Moses, which teaches that every first-born male child be dedicated to God, and also that she might offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons, as required by the Law (Luke 2:22-24; Exod. 13:2; Lev. 12:6-8). On this same day, a just and devout man, the greatly aged Symeon, was also present in the temple, being guided by the Holy Spirit. For a long time, this man had been awaiting the salvation of God, and he had been informed by divine revelation that he would not die until he beheld the Lord’s Christ. Thus, when he beheld Him at that time and took Him up into his aged arms, he gave glory to God, singing: “Now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, O Master. . .” And he confessed that he would close his eyes joyfully, since he had seen the Light of revelation for the nations and the Glory of Israel (Luke 2:25-32). From ancient times, the Holy Church has retained this tradition of the churching of the mother and new-born child on the fortieth day and of the reading of prayers of purification.

The Apodosis of the Feast of the Meeting in the Temple is usually on the 9th of February. This, however, may vary if the Feast falls within the period of the Triodion. Should this occur, the Typicon should be consulted for specific information concerning the Apodosis of the Feast.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Apolytikion for Presentation of Our Lord in the First Mode
Χαῖρε κεχαριτωμένη Θεοτόκε Παρθένε…
Rejoice, thou who art full of grace, O Virgin Theotokos, for from thee hath risen the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God, enlightening those in darkness. Rejoice, thou also, O righteous Elder, as thou receivest in thine arms the Redeemer of our souls, Who also granteth unto us the Resurrection.
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. 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 First Letter to the Hebrews 7:7-17.

BRETHREN, it is beyond dispute that the inferior is blessed by the superior. Here tithes are received by mortal men; there, by one whom it is testified that he lives. One might even say that Levi himself, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, for he was still in the loins of his ancestor when Melchizedek met him. Now if perfection had been attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need would there have been for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, rather than one named after the order of Aaron? For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well. For the one of whom these things are spoken belonged to another tribe, from which no one has ever served at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, and in connection with that tribe Moses said nothing about priests. This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not according to a legal requirement concerning bodily descent but by the power of an indestructible life. For it is witnessed of him, “Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Melchizedek.”

Gospel Reading

 

The Reading is from Luke 2:22-40

At that time, the parents brought the child Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons.” Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Symeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

“Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; and Symeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.



Trisagion Prayer

Petros Achilleas Potaris (9 days) survived by his wife Monika, his sons Brian (Merry) and Michael (Rosalie), his grandchildren, his great grandchildren, his sister Stavroula Christodoulou and her two children Isabel and Paul, five cousins on four continents and their children.

 

 


Announcements

Altar Help Wanted
Father Peter needs help in the altar on Sundays and with Sacraments. Compensation is available subject to ability and time provided. If interested and for more information, please speak with Fr. Peter or a Parish Council member.

 


Philoptochos News – UPCOMING EVENTS

  • January 30,31, February 1,2 : Coverage for YaYa’s Bakery at the Festival.  Contact Juanita (954-257-7843) if you need more information.
SAVE THESE DATES: 
Thursday, February 20 @7:00pm
Presenting a FREE informative talk on fall prevention. “STOP FALLS BEFORE THEY STOP YOU”.  Doors open at 6:30pm.  All are invited!  Kandaras Hall.
Saturday, February 22 @ 12 noon
Join us for WINTER BINGO.  Doors open at 11:30am…Kandaras Hall.

 


HDF News
Congratulations to the HDF team for winning the Choral Award for their singing during their Paros suite and placing overall Bronze metal in their division in competition last weekend in Winston Salem NC.

We are very proud of our dancers.  We would like to thank the dancers for their hard work and dedication.  We would like to also thank Evi Nikolaidou for her countless hours of research and hard work to not only win our first Directors Choral award but for also overcoming obstacles to also win a team Bronze award. WAY TO GO KAMARIA!!!

 


HDF Meeting
The DAC/HDF will hold a 2026 planning meeting for Parents on Sunday, March 2nd after church.
This event is for all families who want to attend in 2026 or want to learn more about the 2026 HDF event.

 

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid  your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.

We remind everyone to pledge for year 2025.  Please send in the stewardship form you received in the mail or pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 



FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

 

 


Website: fortlauderdalegreekfestival.org
Social Media Sites = Like, Follow, and Share
http://facebook.com/FTL.Greekfest
http://instagram.com/ft._laud._greek_festival

The festival continues throughout today!  Keep sharing videos, photos and links to the festival on your social media.  Over 250 members have volunteered to make this event a success.  Volunteer Now!  Stop by the Volunteer Table located next to Admissions at the West Gate.  Participate, Celebrate & Support our Community, Greek Culture and Orthodoxy with our guests and fellow volunteers.  BAKERY, COFFEE, LOUKOUMADES, FOOD LINE, GREEK GRILL ADMISSIONS, GYRO, VOLUNTEER -GUEST SERVICES MONASTERY TABLE, still need volunteers in the evenings and peak hours! Join this extraordinary event full of extraordinary experiences and people. Look for emails with volunteer updates & festival news. THANK YOU FOR YOUR EXCELLENCE & SUPPORT!

 

 


 



Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 

 


 




 


 

Calendar

 

 

Thursday         1/30
5:00pm-10:00pm              Festival

Friday               1/31
12:00pm-11:00pm.            Festival

Saturday           2/1
12:00pm-11:00pm           Festival

Sunday              2/2      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
12:00pm-7:00pm             Festival
                                 
Tuesday            2/4        
7:00pm                                AHEPA meeting

Sunday              2/9      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Liturgy                      GOYA Superbowl of Caring
After Communion             Sunday School
12:30pm                              GOYA meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, January 19th, 2025

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 

 


 

 

Sunday, January 19, 2025

 

 

Macarius the Great of Egypt

 

Saint Macarius the Great was from the Thebaid of Egypt, a disciple, as some say, of Saint Anthony the Great.  He was born about 331 and struggled in asceticism in the desert at Scete.  Although young, he was called “the child elder” because of his great wisdom and austere manner of life.  He was ordained presbyter and reposed in 391, at the age of sixty.  There are fifty homilies ascribed to him.
It is said of Saint Macarius that he became as a God upon earth, for even as God protects the whole world, so did he cover the faults he saw as if he did not see them.  Once he came back to his cell to find a thief taking his things and loading them on a camel.  Macarius’ non-possessiveness was so great that he helped the thief load the camel.  When the camel refused to rise, Macarius returned to his cell and brought a small hoe, said that the camel wanted the hoe also, loaded it on, and kicked the camel telling it to get up.  The camel obeyed Macarius’ command, but soon lay down again, and would not move until everything had been returned to Macarius.  His contemporary, Saint Macarius of Alexandria, was so called because he came from Alexandria and was therefore of that Greek-speaking colony; while Saint Macarius the Great is also called “of Egypt,” that is, he belonged to the ancient race native to Egypt, the Copts.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 Macarius the Great of Egypt in the First Mode
Τής ερήμου πολίτης, καί εν σώματι Άγγελος…
Thou didst prove to be a citizen of the desert, an angel in the flesh, and a wonderworker, O Macarius, our God-bearing Father. By fasting, vigil, and prayer thou didst obtain heavenly gifts, and thou healest the sick and the souls of them that have recourse to thee with faith. Glory to Him that hath given thee strength. 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 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

 

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 Retsinas (6 years) Survived by her children Matheo and Thalia Kountouridis and by Johhny Kountouridis.

 

Trisagion Prayer

 

Iliana Mizinova (1 year) Survived by her sons Milen and Dan.

Dr. Alexander Xenakis (25 years) Survived by his son Demetrios Xenakis.

Antonios Bourlotos (27 years) Survived by wife Stamatiki, children Christina (Michael) and Maria (Alex) and grandchildren Yianni, Antonios and Christina.

Demetrios Kapakos (36 years) Survived by his children and grandchildren.

George Pappas (75 years) and Cleo Pappas (40 years) Parents of Alice Aspras.

 


Baby Blessing


Nicholas and Toni Greve, together with Kylo and Konstantine, present Kassius for his 40 day blessing.

 


Announcements

Altar Help Wanted
Father Peter needs help in the altar on Sundays and with Sacraments. Compensation is available subject to ability and time provided. If interested and for more information, please speak with Fr. Peter or a Parish Council member.


Help Wanted 
We need help in the kitchen to start cooking for the festival on Saturday, January 18 and Saturday, January 25 starting at 10 am. Please call or text Kalli (954)270-8563  who will schedule a time for you to volunteer. Thank you!

 


Philoptochos News – UPCOMING EVENTS

  • January 23rd &24th Festival Packing of Bakery Goods at 9:00am……. Volunteers Welcome!  Many hands make light work.
  • January 21st Loving Stitches 11am
  • January 30,31, February 1,2 : Coverage for YaYa’s Bakery at the Festival.  Sign up sheets in the South Narthex. Contact Juanita (954-257-7843) if you need more information.

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid  your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.

We remind everyone to pledge for year 2025.  Please send in the stewardship form you received in the mail or pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 


Kamaria Reunion Performance
This year at the festival we will be having a reunion performance for anyone who danced in the Kamaria group. It will take place Saturday night at 10:00 p.m. Please contact Stephanie Balaskas at 954-415-0488 for information on how to sign up. Practices will take place on Wednesday January 22 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. and Monday January 27 from 7:00 -9:00 p.m.


FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

 

 


Website: fortlauderdalegreekfestival.org
Social Media Sites = Like, Follow, and Share
http://facebook.com/FTL.Greekfest
http://instagram.com/ft._laud._greek_festival

Jan 30 to Feb 2, 2025, St Demetrios will host The Ft. Lauderdale GREEK FESTIVAL.  Take a few minutes before you exit the church this morning, and sign up in real time and in real life.   Meet in person, face to face, more of the very people who are in this church family with you.   Be the first to welcome guests and guide them through our VIP Parking Lot,  Support the behind the scenes with the Set Up of each area .   Welcome guests and process them through Admissions.  Sign Up to be a part of the Guest Services/Volunteer table where guests upon entering the big tent are introduced to a beautiful display of Orthodox icons, incense and items significant to Orthodoxy; and you greet and meet volunteers as you support them through the process of getting started in their area each day.  Loads of great interaction.  Cashiers (Cashless) get to experience different areas and work with a variety of great people.  There’s also more behind the scenes volunteering in the well run Kitchen or out front serving in any of the food areas.   VOLUNTEER TODAY and connect. Experience how your contribution makes this a better place for everyone, and for you.


 


 



Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 

 



 


 

Calendar

 

 

Saturday         1/18
10:00am                             Festival cooking     (details above in “Help Wanted” announcement)

Sunday             1/19      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School
After Sunday School         Dance practice

Monday            1/20                                         
4:15pm-6:00pm                 Beginner Greek School
7:00pm-8:00pm                Intermediate Greek online

Tuesday            1/21
11:00am                              Loving Stitches

Wednesday     1/22
3:00pm                              Pap Corps meeting
7:00pm-9:00pm              Kamaria reunion dance practice

Thursday         1/23
9:00am                              Festival packing of bakery goods
7:00pm-9:00pm              Advanced Greek online

Saturday          1/25
9:00am                              Festival packing of bakery goods
10:00am                            Festival cooking    (details above in “Help Wanted” announcement)

Sunday             1/26      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School
After Sunday School         Dance practice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, January 12th, 2025

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 

 


 

 

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Sunday after Epiphany

 

 

 

Tatiana the Martyr of Rome
Commemorated on January 12

 

Saint Tatiana was the daughter of a most distinguished consul of Rome.  She became a deaconess of the Church, and for her confession of the Faith of Christ, she endured many torments.  As she was suffering, angels punished her tormentors with the same torments they inflicted on her, until they cried out that they could no longer endure the scourges invisibly brought upon them.  She was beheaded during the reign of Alexander Severus (111-135).

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 Theophany Afterfeast 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.

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

 

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.”

 



Memorial Prayer

 

Panormitis Galouzis (40 days) Survived by his wife Themelina, daughter Eva Gazis, sons Droso and Steve, grandchildren Melina, Nicholas and Michael Gazis and Melina Galouzis.

Anthony Economou (3 years) Survived by his wife Demetra, daughter Anna, son in law Michael and grandsons Zachary and Alexander.

Trisagion Prayer

 

Dionisios Tetenes (3 years) Husband of Angeliki Tetenes.

Markos Hatzikostantis (5 years) Survived by his children and grandchildren.

Athina Sclavounos (8 years) and Spiros Sclavounos (23 years) Parents of Angeliki Tetenes and Vicky Vittoratos

 


Baby Blessing

Katerina and Michael Caro present Amelia for the 40 day baby blessing.

 


Announcements

Coffee Hour In loving memory of her father, Panormitis Galouzis, Eva Gazis and family have sponsored the coffee hour.


Help Wanted
We need help in the kitchen to start cooking for the festival on Saturday, January 18 and Saturday, January 25 starting at 10 am. Please call or text Kalli (954)270-8563  who will schedule a time for you to volunteer. Thank you!

 


Philoptochos News – UPCOMING EVENTS

  • January 15th:  Baking for the Festival:  Volunteers Welcome!
  • January 23rd &24th Festival Packing of Bakery Goods ……. Volunteers Welcome!  Many hands make light work.
  • January 21st Loving Stitches 11am
  • January 30,31, February 1,2 : Coverage for YaYa’s Bakery at the Festival.  Sign up sheets in the South Narthex. Contact Juanita (954-257-7843) if you need more information.

 

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid  your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.

We remind everyone to pledge for year 2025.  Please send in the stewardship form you received in the mail or pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 

 


FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

 

 


Website: fortlauderdalegreekfestival.org
Social Media Sites = Like, Follow, and Share
http://facebook.com/FTL.Greekfest
http://instagram.com/ft._laud._greek_festival

Jan 30 to Feb 2, 2025, St Demetrios will host The Ft. Lauderdale GREEK FESTIVAL.  Take a few minutes before you exit the church this morning, and sign up in real time and in real life.   Meet in person, face to face, more of the very people who are in this church family with you.   Be the first to welcome guests and guide them through our VIP Parking Lot,  Support the behind the scenes with the Set Up of each area .   Welcome guests and process them through Admissions.  Sign Up to be a part of the Guest Services/Volunteer table where guests upon entering the big tent are introduced to a beautiful display of Orthodox icons, incense and items significant to Orthodoxy; and you greet and meet volunteers as you support them through the process of getting started in their area each day.  Loads of great interaction.  Cashiers (Cashless) get to experience different areas and work with a variety of great people.  There’s also more behind the scenes volunteering in the well run Kitchen or out front serving in any of the food areas.   VOLUNTEER TODAY and connect. Experience how your contribution makes this a better place for everyone, and for you.


 

 


 



Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 

 



 


 

Calendar

 

 

Saturday         1/11      District Epiphany Celebration at St. Catherine, West Palm Beach
9:00am/10:00am           Orthros/Divine Liturgy at St. Catherine, West Palm Beach
Followed by                     Diving for the cross and luncheon  at St. Catherine, West Palm Beach
Sunday             1/12      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School
After Sunday School         Dance practice

Monday            1/13                                         
4:15pm-6:00pm                 Beginner Greek School
7:00pm-8:00pm                Intermediate Greek online

Wednesday     1/15
10:00am                             Festival baking

Thursday         1/16
6:00pm                              Philoptochos Meeting
7:00pm-9:00pm              Advanced Greek online

Saturday          1/18
10:00am                             Festival cooking

Sunday             1/19      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Communion             Sunday School
After Sunday School         Dance practice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 22nd, 2024

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 


We wish all of you a blessed Christmas.

Services for the Nativity will take place on Christmas Eve.
Orthros at 4:30pm followed by the Divine Liturgy at 5:30pm

 

 

Sunday, December 22, 2024

Sunday before the Nativity

 

 

 

Anastasia the Great Martyr

 

This Saint, who was from Rome, was a most comely, wealthy, and virtuous maiden, the daughter of Praepextatus and Fausta. It was her mother who instructed her in the Faith of Christ. The Saint was joined to a man named Publius Patricius, who was prodigal in life and impious in disposition, but she was widowed after a short time. Henceforth, she went about secretly to the dwellings of the poor and the prisons where the Martyrs of Christ were, and brought them whatever was needed for their daily subsistence. She washed their wounds and loosed them from their fetters, and consoled them in their anguish. Also, because the Saint, through her intercessions, has healed many from the ill effects of spells, potions, poisons, and other harmful substances, she has received the name “Deliverer from Potions.” Since the fame of her deeds had spread about, she was arrested by Diocletian’s minions, and after enduring many torments she was put to death by fire in the year 290

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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

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!
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…
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.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by Holy Transfiguration Monastery

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

 

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.



Trisagion Prayer

Zacharias Haralambis (19 years) survived by his wife Clara Haralambis and by their children and grandchildren.

Nikolas, Maria, George, George, Mariafather and mother, brother, nephew, and friend of Clara Haralambis.

Baby Blessing

Stephanie and Marcelo Vila present baby Dean for the forty day blessing.

Elena Haralambis and Nicholas Murch present Avery for the forty day blessing.

 

 

 


Announcements

Election to the Parish Council
Immediately following the Divine Liturgy, stewards in good standing are asked to please vote.
There are 6 nominated candidates for 5 positions on the Parish Council.
These are the nominees:

  • George Georgakakis– My name is George Georgakakis.  I have served on the Parish Council for 17 years.  I served as PC President for 7 years.  I have attended Saint Demetrios since January 1972.  I was involved with both GOYA, the Kamaria dance group and the Sons of Pericles in the 1980’s.  I am a board certified otolaryngologist practicing in Fort Lauderdale for the past 23 years.  My favorite ice cream flavor is butter pecan.  I also like puppies.
  • Ted Krekoukis – Ted Krekoukis and his family learned the importance of giving back to their community through the example of their parents and grandparents. Ted graduated as Salutatorian from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. During his youth, he was actively involved in GOYA and the Boy Scouts of America. Ted pursued a career in technology, where his love of education & technology merged, leading the product team that created the Barnes & Noble NOOK e-Reading devices. After relocating to Florida, Ted and his family became proud members of the vibrant St. Demetrios parish. Since then, he has served on the Stewardship Committee and as a GOYA youth advisor. Additionally, Ted is a key member of the small team that organizes the district youth Olympics, which brings together hundreds of South Florida youth for a weekend of sports and ministry at St. Demetrios.
  • Alex Papastamatis – Alex Papastamatis was born in New Jersey and moved to South Florida in 1979 with his parents and his brother, where they quickly became parishioners of St. Demetrios Church. His father served on the Parish Council and is a recipient of the Archangel Michael Award. This is Alex’s 2nd time on the Parish Council and he also leads the newly-formed Stewardship Committee and is a GOYA advisor.  He has a strong background in marketing, communication, and events and has worked for some exciting Fortune 500 companies including Coca-Cola, NBC Universal, Comcast Advertising, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Alex is married to Maria, a registered nurse, and they have a 17-year-old daughter, Christina – both who are also very involved in the Church. Alex enjoys travelling and photography and he looks forward to further serving the St. Demetrios community.
  • Stavros Pavlides – My name is Stavros Pavlides. I was born and raised in Cyprus and moved to South Florida for work in 2011. Since then I have been a parishioner of St. Demetrios church. I am married to Talia and together we are blessed with two children, Leonidas and Athena. I am a board-certified veterinarian specializing in Emergency and Critical Care.
  • Garry Paxinos – I have been a lifelong member of St. Demetrios Church, where I have been blessed to serve in various capacities throughout the years. It has been an honor to serve on the parish council several times, and I am grateful for the opportunity to currently serve as its President. Additionally, I have the privilege of serving as a Liturgical Assistant, a role that deepens my connection to our faith and the spiritual life of our community. I am committed to supporting the growth and vitality of St. Demetrios and fostering a welcoming environment for all parishioners. Professionally, my background is in technology, with expertise spanning hardware and software design, as well as system architecture. Over the years, I have contributed to diverse fields, including medical imaging, nuclear power plant control systems, television technology, and military/aerospace systems. My current work focuses on innovative solutions for cruise lines and for our military. I bring this broad experience to my role in the parish, offering technical and organizational insights to support the continued development and success of our church community.
  • Katherine Ziegler – Kathy Ziegler is a long-time parishioner of St. Demetrios Church where she has served on the Parish Council for several years. She has been indispensable as Chairperson of our annual Silent Auction. Kathy has served as a teacher in our Sunday School program. She was an educator for many years and is a proud mother and grandmother.

Philoptochos Christmas Orders
If you have ordered melomakarona or vasilopita please pick up your order on Sundays in the church hall.  If you have not ordered we have plenty to sell.  You can purchase what you need on Sundays.

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid or are paying installments on your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.
If you have not pledged for year 2024, you can still do so here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 

 


Grief and the Holiday Blues 

Please join us in our annual workshop where we gather to find mutual support in coping with the sadness of missing loved ones who are no longer with us to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. So many of us experience grief in the midst of the joy of this special season. Come find the encouragement to express these feelings in a safe environment.

When: Sunday, December 22 at 1:00pm
Where:  The Sanctuary
The workshop will be facilitated by Isabella Christodoulou, LCSW

 


FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

How about the great new festival logo!  Alex Papastamatis, Kathe Vezos Milner and their marketing team made this possible.  You’re also seeing Erin Ryan’s festival posts on social media and a greater  presence with digital marketing at the hand of volunteer, Michael Karavolos. These folks continue to contribution through festival weekend as well. Alex volunteers with Tony Planakis in Gyro or he’ll be serving at the Bar with John Simitses. You may catch Michael volunteering there as well.. Erin jumps in and volunteers where needed!  Where will you jump in and volunteer during THE FOUR DAYS OF FESTIVAL?

Recently you read about Dorothy. She expressed her gratitude to our church family for the heartfelt joy she experienced at our festival and made a generous donation to our community. You also read about Karyl, our Loukoumades Queen, Paula, with church tours and Melissa, our festival decorator and her volunteering at Gyro with her entire family!   You may be inspired to signup with any of the teams spotlighted here or perhaps you’ll signup for more than one to include the Bakery or the Greek Grocery Store.

Sign up for the Bakery and you’ll volunteer with Lisa Marie Pedonomou, and her team of the most delightful ladies of our community.  Lisa shares, I do this because I feel that St. Demetrios is like my family.   And as family we work together to contribute something meaningful to our community  and show our gratitude to God.”  If you choose to signup for the Greek Grocery,  you will encounter the amusing energy of a very qualified Mona Kapakos and her dedicated team. Mona says, “St. Demetrios is our home away from home and our extended family in Christ. Giving of oneself is the most rewarding thing in life, whether  we are qualified or not for the task at hand.  But that’s because I am crazy, I like taking on jobs that  I’m  totally unqualified.
HOW ABOUT YOU?  SIGN UP TODAY AND CREATE YOUR UNIQUE VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE.

Jan 30 to Feb 2, 2025, St Demetrios will host The Ft. Lauderdale GREEK FESTIVAL.  Take a few minutes before you exit the church this morning, and sign up in real time and in real life.   Meet in person, face to face, more of the very people who are in this church family with you.   Be the first to welcome guests and guide them through our VIP Parking Lot,  Support the behind the scenes with the Set Up of each area .   Welcome guests and process them through Admissions.  Sign Up to be a part of the Guest Services/Volunteer table where guests upon entering the big tent are introduced to a beautiful display of Orthodox icons, incense and items significant to Orthodoxy; and you greet and meet volunteers as you support them through the process of getting started in their area each day.  Loads of great interaction.  Cashiers (Cashless) get to experience different areas and work with a variety of great people.  There’s also more behind the scenes volunteering in the well run Kitchen or out front serving in any of the food areas.   VOLUNTEER TODAY and connect. Experience how your contribution makes this a better place for everyone, and for you.

 


 

 


 



Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 

 


     Stewardship Year 2024

If you have filled out a pledge form for year 2024 but have not yet made a donation toward your pledge of treasure, please do so. 

To make payments on your pledge, use https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ and at the drop down menu choose “Stewardship” .  If paying by check, please note “Pledge 2024” on the memo line.

We thank our parishioners who have pledged their gifts of time, talent and treasure for year 2024.  
If you have not, please fill out a form.  You can download a form, pick up a form at church, or use https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/.

 


 


 

Calendar

 

 

Sunday             12/22      
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Liturgy                       Parish Council Election
After Liturgy                       Grief Session
After Sunday School          Dance Practice

Tuesday          12/24
4:30pm/5:30pm               Orthros and Divine Liturgy of the Nativity

Wednesday   12/25      Holy Nativity

Sunday           12/29      
8:45am/9:45am                Orthros/Divine Liturgy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 15th, 2024

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 


 

 

Sunday, December 15, 2024

11th Sunday of Luke

 

 

 

Eleutherios the Hieromartyr, Bishop of Illyricum, and his mother Anthia

 

This Saint had Rome as his homeland. Having been orphaned of his father from childhood, he was taken by his mother Anthia to Anicetus, the Bishop of Rome (some call him Anencletus, or Anacletus), by whom he was instructed in the sacred letters (that is, the divine Scriptures). Though still very young in years, he was made Bishop of Illyricum by reason of his surpassing virtue, and by his teachings he converted many unbelievers to Christ. However, during a most harsh persecution that was raised against the Christians under Hadrian (reigned 117-138), the Saint was arrested by the tyrants. Enduring many torments for Christ, he was finally put to death by two soldiers about the year 126. As for his Christ-loving mother Anthia, while embracing the remains of her son and kissing them with maternal affection, she was also beheaded.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 Sunday 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 Hieromartyr Eleutherios and Anthia in the Fourth Mode
Ἱερέων ποδηρει κατακοσμούμενος…
Being comely adorned in thy sacred priestly robes and newly drenched with the streams of thy pure and sanctified blood, thou didst soar aloft to stand before thy Master, Christ; hence never cease to intercede for those honouring with faith thy mighty and blessed contest, thou overthrower of Satan, O wise and blessed Eleutherius.
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…
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.
Reading is under copyright and is used with permission, all rights reserved by Holy Transfiguration Monastery

Epistle Reading

 

Prokeimenon. Grave Mode. Psalm 115.5,3 (116.15,12).
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
Verse: What shall I render to the Lord for all that he has given me?

The reading is from St. Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy 1:8-18

TIMOTHY, my son, do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel in the power of God, who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not in virtue of our works but in virtue of his own purpose and the grace which he gave us in Christ Jesus ages ago, and now has manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. For this gospel I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, and therefore I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am sure that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. Follow the pattern of the sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus; guard the truth that has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, and among them Phygelos and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphoros, for he often refreshed me; he was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me eagerly and found me –  may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that Day and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesos.

 

Gospel Reading

 

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 Prayer

Anastasia Iliadis (40 days) survived by her daughters and by her grandchildren.

Dr. Anthony Kales (1 year) survived by his wife Dr. Joyce Kales, children Stefanos, Helen, Demetri, grandchildren Anastasia, Sophia, Theodore, Stefania, Arianna, Alexandra and Zoe.

 

 

 


Announcements

Memorial Luncheon
A luncheon has been donated anonymously, on behalf of the Parish, in memory of Dr. Anthony Kales for his great service and philanthropy to our community.

 

 


Directory Photos

Attention All Active Stewards:
Family and individual Stewards pictures for the Steward Directory will be taken outside of the small hall after church on Sunday, December 8th and Sunday, December 15th. Please inform your groups that unless there are requests for further dates, these will be the last dates to get your pictures. There is no charge for the pictures and a copy of the picture can be emailed to you on request. Thank you.

 


Philoptochos Christmas Orders

If you have ordered melomakarona or vasilopita please pick up your order on Sundays in the church hall.  If you have not ordered we have plenty to sell.  You can purchase what you need on Sundays.

 


Thank You

The Ladies of Philoptochos would like to thank all the individuals who attended our group Christmas Party last week.  We hope you had fun dancing, socializing and enjoying your meal.   We also want to thank those who were able to donate a gift card for Covenant House.  Your generosity will allow the children living there to have a wonderful Christmas,   Wishing you and ALL our supporters throughout this year a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR God bless you all.

 


Stewardship
We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid or are paying installments on your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.
If you have not pledged for year 2024, you can still do so here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!

 


Prosforo
Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.

 


Agape Luncheon
Please join us for the Agape luncheon at 11:30 AM on Tuesday 12/17/24. Chef Manos, sous chef Bessie Manos, salad specialist Eva Planakis and their able crew will prepare a delicious meal in addition to snacks, refreshments and dessert. Entrance fee $10.00. Welcome and bring a friend. Καλές γιορτές και ειρήνη στον κόσμο!!!

 


Grief and the Holiday Blues 

Please join us in our annual workshop where we gather to find mutual support in coping with the sadness of missing loved ones who are no longer with us to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. So many of us experience grief in the midst of the joy of this special season. Come find the encouragement to express these feelings in a safe environment.

When: Sunday, December 22 after the coffee hour
Where:  The Church Hall
The workshop will be facilitated by Isabella Christodoulou, LCSW

 


 

 


Volunteer Opportunities

FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

It is much more than just another festival!  You are so much more than just a volunteer! 
To Dorothy Duffy, a seasonal member of our church, and the multitude of festival guests, our volunteers are the embodiment of an authentic cultural experience overflowing with hospitality and great appreciation for our guests who celebrate the Orthodox faith and Greek culture with all of us.  Guests enjoy meals from the food line, Gyro, Greek Grill and bakery desserts with loukoumades too.  They are entertained by beautifully costumed dancers and their intricate suite of dances.  Dorothy, in particular, was greatly impacted by the splendor of her Hellenistic origins, Greek music, food and long-standing traditions thanks to the festival leadership team and the volunteers who make this event possible every year.  Dorothy fell asleep in the Lord recently and ensured her gratitude to our community, especially for the rich experience she had during our festival, was expressed by gifting St. Demetrios a $10,000 donation.

Jan 30 to Feb 2, 2025, St Demetrios will host the Ft. Lauderdale GREEK FESTIVAL.  
Take a few minutes before you exit the church this morning, and sign up.  Give yourself the experience of making a lifelong impression on our guests, like Dorothy, and work with some of the most amazing people you will ever meet.

There are many wonderful Volunteer Opportunities and many more wonderful people to connect with!  You can sign up with Karyl & The Loukoumades Queens or The Greek Coffee Group.  There’s also Melissa & Faith with festival decor & table set up; and there’s a chance to learn more about our faith while supporting the church tours & lectures with Paula’s group.    These ladies continue to take the lead year after year.  Karyl Zitis states, “It is an honor and a pleasure to chair the Loukoumades and Coffee booths for our festival. I love working together with the most amazing and hard-working women whom I call my family. It brings us such happiness to see everyone having a great time. “   Melissa Bakatselos shared that she enjoys volunteering and talking to the guests that walk through her lines every year.   She volunteers to give back because she is blessed and thankful for the opportunities that have been put in her path each day and the people she meets along the way.    Paula Kirifides expressed her reason for volunteering for many years; “Giving our guests the opportunity to understand and appreciate a little of our beautiful Greek Orthodox faith is a privilege and an extension of my love for my church”.  SIGN UP IS HAPPENING IN THE SOUTH NARTHEX!  SEE YOU THERE!


 

 

 



Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 

 


     Stewardship Year 2024

If you have filled out a pledge form for year 2024 but have not yet made a donation toward your pledge of treasure, please do so. 

To make payments on your pledge, use https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ and at the drop down menu choose “Stewardship” .  If paying by check, please note “Pledge 2024” on the memo line.

We thank our parishioners who have pledged their gifts of time, talent and treasure for year 2024.  
If you have not, please fill out a form.  You can download a form, pick up a form at church, or use https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/.

 


 


 

Calendar

 

 

Saturday          12/14
12:00pm-4:00pm              Kamaria dance practice

Sunday             12/15      
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Sunday School          Dance Practice

Monday             12/16
4:15pm-6:00pm                 Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner
7:00pm-8:00pm                Intermediate Greek -Google Meet

Tuesday            12/17
11:30am                               Agape Luncheon

Thursday         12/19

7:00pm-9:00pm                Advanced Greek – Online
Sunday             12/22      
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Liturgy                       Parish Council Election
After Liturgy                       Grief Session
After Sunday School          Dance Practice

Tuesday          12/24
6:30pm                                Orthros and Divine Liturgy of the Nativity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, December 1st, 2024

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 


Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Sunday, December 1, 2024

14th Sunday of Luke

 

 

 

Philaret the Merciful of Amnia

 

Saint Philaret a native of Paphlagonia in Asia Minor, was a virtuous Christian layman who lived in lawful wedlock and raised a family. He was most renowned for his generosity to all in need. In a short space of time he lost the greater part of his possessions to theft and other misfortunes and was left with nothing but his family, his home, and a little livestock. Yet he continued to give generously to the poor despite the faint-heartedness of his family, who reproached him for giving alms when they were in need themselves; and God, seeing his faith, restored his prosperity to him many times over. He foresaw the day of his death, and in sanctity in Constantinople in 789.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 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…
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.
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 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

 

Luke 18:35-43

At that time, as Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

 


Memorial Prayer

Thomas Angelos (15 years) survived by three children and two grandchildren.

 

Trisagion Prayer

Denise Filosofos (6 days) survived by her family and her many friends in Philoptochos.
She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

s.

 

 


Announcements

Coffee Hour
In loving memory of her father Thomas Angelos, Samantha Angelos has sponsored the coffee hour.

 


Stewardship

We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid or are paying installments on your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.
If you have not pledged for year 2024, you can still do so here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!


Prosforo

Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.


Thank You  

On Saturday morning, November 23rd, several of our parishioners met to plant 76 podocarpus bushes along the northwest side of our property.  The bushes were donated anonymously at a cost of $987.  This is part of a larger project to landscape the vacant lot on the northwest corner of our property.  The $9,000 cost of this project has been donated and includes money to pay for fill dirt to raise the level of the ground to existing church property height and install an irrigation system for grass which will be installed sometime after the festival.

We thank the following parishioners for giving up their Saturday morning to install the bushes:  Anne Nicholas, Lea Planakis, Tony Planakis, Michael Planakis, Peter Synoyannis and Bill Ypsilantis.

Thank you and God bless you for your inspiring commitment to St. Demetrios!

 

 


 


 

 

 


Volunteer Opportunities

FORT LAUDERDALE GREEK FESTIVAL 2025

There are many wonderful Volunteer Opportunities and many more wonderful people to connect with!  You can sign up with Karyl & The Loukoumades Queens or The Greek Coffee Group.  There’s also Melissa & Faith with festival decor & table set up; and there’s a chance to learn more about our faith while supporting the church tours & lectures with Paula’s group.    These ladies continue to take the lead year after year.  Karyl Zitis states, “It is an honor and a pleasure to chair the Loukoumades and Coffee booths for our festival. I love working together with the most amazing and hard-working women whom I call my family. It brings us such happiness to see everyone having a great time. “   Melissa Bakatselos shared that she enjoys volunteering and talking to the guests that walk through her lines every year.   She volunteers to give back because she is blessed and thankful for the opportunities that have been put in her path each day and the people she meets along the way.    Paula Kirifides expressed her reason for volunteering for many years; “Giving our guests the opportunity to understand and appreciate a little of our beautiful Greek Orthodox faith is a privilege and an extension of my love for my church”.  SIGN UP IS HAPPENING IN THE SOUTH NARTHEX!  SEE YOU THERE!


Festival Sponsorship Opportunities

 


 


     Stewardship Year 2024

If you have filled out a pledge form for year 2024 but have not yet made a donation toward your pledge of treasure, please do so. 

To make payments on your pledge, use https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ and at the drop down menu choose “Stewardship” .  If paying by check, please note “Pledge 2024” on the memo line.

We thank our parishioners who have pledged their gifts of time, talent and treasure for year 2024.  
If you have not, please fill out a form.  You can download a form, pick up a form at church, or use https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/.

 


 


 

Calendar

 

 

Thursday          11/28     Happy Thanksgiving

Sunday              12/1       
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Sunday School          Dance Practice
12:30pm                               GOYA meeting
1:00pm                                 Bible Study (in the hall)

Monday             12/2
4:15pm-6:00pm                 Greek Classes A’,B’, Γ’, Δ’ & Adult Beginner
7:00pm-8:00pm                Intermediate Greek -Google Meet

Tuesday            12/3
7:00pm                                  AHEPA meeting

Wednesday     12/4
6:30pm                                DOP meeting

Thursday         12/5
7:00pm-9:00pm                Advanced Greek – Online
Friday               12/6
7:00pm                                Christmas Party at Galuppi’s

Saturday          12/7
6:30pm                                Nativity Pageant and Christmas party at St. Demetrios

Sunday             12/8       
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Liturgy                       PapCorps Christmas Boutique and Pita Lunch
After Liturgy                       General Assembly
After Sunday School          Dance Practice
1:00pm                                 Bible Study (in the hall)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Liturgical Guide and Bulletin for Sunday, November 24th, 2024

We are live streaming our services.

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

 

 


Sunday, November 24, 2024

13th Sunday of Luke

 

 

 

 

Peter, Archbishop of Alexandria

Saint Peter illustriously occupied the throne of Alexandria for twelve years, and, as Eusebius says, “was a divine example of a bishop on account of the excellence of his life and his study of the sacred Scriptures” (see Eusebius, Eccl. Hist., Book VII, 3 2; Book VIII 11, 13; and Book IX, 6). He excommunicated Arius for his sympathy with the Meletian schism. When Arius learned that Saint Peter had been imprisoned, he sent many priests and deacons to him, asking that he receive him back into the communion of the Church before his martyrdom. When the ambassadors of Arius, who had not, like Saint Peter, perceived the ruin he would engender, were astonished at the vehemence with which Saint Peter refused to receive Arius again, he revealed to them a dread vision he had seen, in which the Master Christ had appeared to him as a child wearing a garment torn from head to foot. When Saint Peter asked the Lord who rent His garment, the Lord answered that it was Arius, and that he must not be received back into communion. The holy hieromartyr Peter was beheaded during the reign of Maximinus in the year 312; he is called the “Seal of the Martyrs,” because he was the last Bishop of Alexandria to suffer martyrdom under the pagan Emperors. His successors to the throne of Alexandria, Saints Alexander and Athanasius the Great, brought to final victory the battle against Arius’ heresy which Saint Peter had begun.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       


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 Afterfeast of the 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

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 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. 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 Galatians 6:11-18

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

 

Gospel Reading

 

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.”

 


Trisagion Prayer

 

Georgia Aspras Mastrogianis (3 yrs) Daughter of Alice Aspras, Plato Pappas (3 yrs) and Antigone Pappas (3 yrs) siblings of Alice Aspras, Philip Pappas (4 yrs) nephew of Alice Aspras.

Mary Planakis (6 yrs) survived by her children Clare, Chris, Andreas and Beth, her grandchildren Chloe, Lucas, Nikos and Alexandra, and her siblings Adonis, Eleni, Magda, Stathis and Pantelis.

 

 


Announcements

Coffee Hour
In loving memory of her mother Mary Planakis, Clare Winkel has sponsored the coffee hour.

 


Stewardship

We thank those who have pledged to St. Demetrios Church for year 2024!
Please take a look to see if you have paid or are paying installments on your financial commitment.
You can make payments on your existing pledge here https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ by choosing “Stewardship” from the dropdown menu.
If you have not pledged for year 2024, you can still do so here https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/
Thank you!


Prosforo

Anyone who is able to bake prosforo please do so.  Don’t forget to also bring the names of your living and deceased for the proskomidi prayer.


Steward Directory

Every Sunday after services until the end of November, family photos will be taken on the church property for all current stewards. A digital copy of your family photo will be emailed to you upon request.
The steward directory will be made available when finished.


The Ladies Philoptochos  Society, Elpis Chapter 5003 every year supports one of our local schools. The financial support and donations of materials were provided through the generosity of the congregation of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. Financial support provided additional monies to be used for the academic and educational needs of the students at Bennett Elementary School.

 

 


 


 

 


 


 


     Stewardship Year 2024

If you have filled out a pledge form for year 2024 but have not yet made a donation toward your pledge of treasure, please do so. 

To make payments on your pledge, use https://stdemetrios.org/make-a-donation/ and at the drop down menu choose “Stewardship” .  If paying by check, please note “Pledge 2024” on the memo line.

We thank our parishioners who have pledged their gifts of time, talent and treasure for year 2024.  
If you have not, please fill out a form.  You can download a form, pick up a form at church, or use https://stdemetrios.org/our-parish/stewardship/stewardship-form/.

 


 


 

Calendar

 

 

Sunday              11/24       
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Sunday School          Dance Practice
After Liturgy                        Steward directory photos
1:00pm                                 Bible Study (in the hall)
Tuesday             11/26
11:00am                                Loving Stitches
Thursday          11/28     Happy Thanksgiving
Sunday              12/1       
8:45am/9:45am                 Orthros/Divine Liturgy
After Holy Communion    Sunday School
After Sunday School          Dance Practice
12:30pm                               GOYA meeting
1:00pm                                 Bible Study (in the hall)