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THE MESSENGER
A Monthly Publication of St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church JANUARY 2010
Our 2010 Wishes for You INSIDE
Health enough to make work a pleasure. Wealth MINISTRIES OF THE CHURCH
enough to support your needs.
MONTHLY CALENDAR
Patience enough to toil until some good is accom- PASTORAL REFLECTIONS
plished. STEWARDSHIP NEWS
UPCOMING EVENTS
Strength enough to battle with difficulties and over- YOUTH NEWS
come them.
Grace enough to confess your sins and forsake them.
Charity enough to see some good in your neighbor.
Love enough to make you useful and helpful to oth-
ers.
Hope enough to remove all anxious fears concerning
the future.
Faith enough to make real the things of God
~ Author Unknown
Our choir performed at the Pan-Orthodox Christmas concert held in our
parish in December. Thank you to all the members for their beautiful
performance!
ST. PAUL GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
4548 Wallings Road • North Royalton, Ohio 44133-3121
(440) 237-8998 · (440) 237-4386 fax
E-mail address: messenger@stpaulgoc.org
www.stpaulgoc.org
(A Parish under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America,
and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh
PAGE 2 THE MESSENGER
CLERGY The following ministries are the lifeblood of our parish
and perform many activities to promote the growth of
Pastor our church. Your participation in these organizations
Rev. Fr. Costas P. Keares, Proistamenos makes our community more spiritually complete.
Liturgical Assistant
Rev. Fr. David Zuder Philoptochos Tessie Lekas
Coffee Socials Mary Pagonakis
ECCLESIARCH Bruce W. Trakas Festival John James
Health Care Julie Tsirambidis
PARISH COUNCIL Messenger Editor Elaine Nackowiz
President Michael Alex Welcome Committee Mersene Conomea
Vice President Stephanie Ocker Choir Director Vaso Boukis
Secretary George Loucas Cantor Efstathios Tsesmelis
Financial Secretary Michael Sfekas Organist Jean Wendland
Treasurer Mark Eakman Bookstore Rae Elliot
Real Estate
Dr. Michael Barkoukis
Dean Callas ST. PAUL FAMILY MINISTRY COMMISSION
Gary Charnas Chairman Andrew Wilson
Irene Pontikos Co-Chair Stephanie Ocker
Dr. Manuel Saridakis HOPE / JOY Elaine Nackowiz
Andrew Wilson GOYA Coordinator Elaine Nackowiz
OCF Maribeth Lekas
OFFICE SECRETARY Elaine Nackowiz Altar Boys Fr. Costas Keares
BOOKKEEPER Religious Education Brenda Saridakis
CUSTODIAN Shaun Curley Dena Wilson
LEGAL ADVISOR Ken Boukis Bible Study Frank Chirakos
Fr. Costas Keares
STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Women’s Study Group Presvytera Nicole
VCS
Family Ministry Andrew Wilson Greek School Kathy Glaros
Membership George Loucas PTO Effie Trihas
Public Relations Father Costas Debbie Gemelas
Ways & Means Dean Callas Senior Fellowship Andy & Maria Regan
Home Gary Charnas Senior Hellenic Dancers Eleni Gugliotta
Dean Callas Susan Karas
Catering / Leasing Michael Sfekas Julie Maskow
Stewardship Irene Pontikos Anna Psellas
John Trihas Junior Hellenic Dancers Julie Tsirambidis
Bylaws George Loucas Eleni Johnson
Irene Pontikos Maria Whitacre
Michael Alex Beginner Hellenic Dancers Maria Lignos
Bruce Trakas Paige Nicholas
Telephone: (440) 237-8998 Deadline for all articles and Organization Minutes is
Fax: (440) 237-4386 the 1st of the month. Please keep this in mind! Items
Catering: (440) 582-1083 can be e-mailed to messenger@stpaulgoc.org.
Website: www.stpaulgoc.org
Office E-Mail: messenger@stpaulgoc.org
Fr. Costas E-Mail: frcostas@stpaulgoc.org
Fr. Costas Cell: (440) 669-1316
Philoptochos E-Mail: philoptochos@stpaulgoc.org
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 3
Let me conclude with a reflection called:
Pastoral Reflections by Father Costas
“I am the New Year!”
We are in the midst of a very joyous Season in our Li-
turgical calendar as we celebrate the feast of the Na-
tivity of the Lord, that is the Birth of our Lord and
“I am the New Year. I am an unspoiled page in your
book of time. I am your next chance at art of living. I
Savior Jesus Christ.
am your opportunity to practice what you have
learned during the last twelve months about life. All
Christ was born in the flesh. He has emptied Himself
that you sought the past year and failed to find is hid-
and taken on our human nature. Our Holy Tradition,
den in me; I am waiting for you to search it out with
as well as the Holy Scripture continues to instruct us
more determination. All the good that you tried to do
that His Divinity is not diminished but our human- for others and didn’t achieve last year is mine to
ity is forever changed. Our humanity has been raised grant—provided that you have fewer selfish and con-
up and restored to its original form in the person of flicting desires. In me lies the potential of all that
Jesus Christ. This is the great gift we celebrate during you dreamed but did not dare to do, all that you
the Twelve Days between Christmas and Theophany hoped but did not perform, all that you prayed for but
(the Baptism of our Lord); days of continued feasting did not yet experience. These dreams slumber lightly,
and celebration. waiting to be awakened by the touch of an enduring
purpose. I’m your opportunity to renew your chal-
Christ coming to the world is a great gift for us. As we lenge to Christ who said, ‘Behold, I make all things
look forward to the New Year before us, it means we new’. (Rev. 21:5). I am the New Near.”
have possibilities beyond our imagination and under-
standing to grow in union with God. We can and are Wishing all of you, our New Born Savior’s Peace and
bearers of Christ and can be and are filled with the Joy throughout this New Year!
Holy Spirit. These benefits of Christ’s birth are not im-
posed upon us, nor do they come without some effort
on our part.
Each year many of us begin the New Year with vari-
ous resolutions. This is a perfect time to prioritize our
resolutions and to recommit ourselves to the work
that the Lord has set before us; to GROW IN HIS
LIKENESS, IN HIS HOLINESS.
The model is Christ. He is not some abstract philoso-
phy, but a person whom we know from the Gospel. It
is God who loved us so much that he accepted to be-
To know God’s will
come one of us to lead us to greater heights. Let us use
the tools of our Orthodox Tradition to continue our is Life’s greatest treasure.
growth in Him. These tools include daily prayer, the
reading of scripture and other sacred writings in our To do God’s will
church, fasting, and participation in the sacraments;
including the sacrament of confession.
is Life’s greatest pleasure.
PAGE 4 THE MESSENGER
Our Parish 21 Things to Reflect Upon!
Her Life & People 1) Give people more than they expect and do it
cheerfully.
Baptisms & Chrismation 2) Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you
get older, their conversational skills will be as im-
November 29th
portant as any other.
Liyeri ~ daughter of Gus & Diana Matheou
Godparents ~ Emmanouel & Tricia Planatiotis 3) Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or
sleep all you want.
4) When you say, "I love you", mean it.
Funerals
May Their Memories be Eternal 5) When you say, "I'm sorry", look the person in the
eye.
November 30th Clara Karagiozis
6) Be engaged at least six months before you get mar-
ried.
Healthy Living
7) Believe in love at first sight.
What a gift we have been given in the body that is 8) Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't
ours. Whether we are fully active or somewhat limited have dreams don't have much.
in our mobility, we have this physical presence to ex-
press ourselves in this world. Even if we find that we 9) Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt
are somehow constrained by the methods of expres- but it's the only way to live life completely.
sion, we find a way to make our body work. The deaf
10) In disagreements, fight fairly. Please No name call-
"hear" through sign language; the blind "see" through
ing.
Braille; and the lame "walk" through the assistance of
artificial limbs. Our body is a treasure given by God, 11) Don't judge people by their relatives.
and even when it may not function as perfectly as we
may desire, we still care for this gift through the stew- 12) Talk slowly but think quickly.
ardship we exercise. Yes, exercise, healthy nourish- 13) When someone asks you a question you don't
ment, appropriate sleep, good hygiene are want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want
all ways we care for our gift, and honor the to know?"
One who gave us the body we have.
14) Remember that great love and great achievements
involve great risk.
15) Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.
16) When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
17) Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect
for others; Responsibility for all your actions.
18) Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
Scott Daniels
Phillip & Maureen Kiriazis and family 19) When you realize you've made a mistake, take im-
mediate steps to correct it.
Robert & Tammy McClish and sons
Thomas & Elizabeth Wendland 20) Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will
hear it in your voice.
We invite you to join us for the coffee social which
follows the Divine Liturgy for fellowship. We look 21) Spend some time alone.
forward to meeting you!
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 5
Youth News Greek School News
HOPE / JOY Χρόνια πολλά και καλή χρονιά!
~ On Saturday, January 30th we will meet at Young Happy New Year!
Chef’s Academy located at 14759 Pearl Rd. in
Strongsville at 3:00 p.m. The children will be able Wishing you happiness and prosperity in
to cook something they can enjoy. Cost is $10 per the New Year!
child. Checks can be made payable to Young
Chef’s Academy. Please register by January 27th to I hope you enjoyed our students singing
the church office via phone or email. the Kalanda as much we did. The chil-
dren also made Koulourakia for Christmas. Thank
GOYA you to the parents who attended our Open House.
~ Our GOYAns were very busy during the Many thanks to all the parents for their help in pre-
Christmas season. They volunteered to be elves paring those delicious dishes for our Christmas party.
at Breakfast with St. Nicholas; served lunch at St. We had a great time.
Herman’s; brought gifts and celebrated Christmas
with the homeless children at Laura’s home along We now look forward to the months ahead. The
with the GOYAns at St. Demetrios; and found teachers are very busy getting ready for the first mark-
time to have a scrimmage with St. Demetrios. We ing grading period. Report cards will be sent home
thank them for their time and effort. February 1st. All assignments must be completed by
then.
~ We are scheduled to attend three basketball
tournaments this winter: January 8-10 in Warren, Please get involved with your children's homework
January 22-24 in Pittsburgh and February 5-7 in and assist them if they need any help. Call me or their
Rocky River. During the weeks of teacher. We will be glad to help. Each teacher gives
tournaments, boys and girls will practice on both much love and time to our students, educating them
days. Information packets, room assignments, etc. and teaching them. Please help us to achieve our
will occur on the Thursday prior to a goals.
tournament. Please be sure to check our website
for updates. Don’t forget to praise them and encourage them for all
their efforts and hard work. They are the future of
~ Our next meeting is Sunday, January 3rd our heritage and preservation of the Greek culture.
following Sunday School in the Teen room. This
will be our last meeting before our first If you have any questions, please call me at 216-524-
tournament. We encourage all GOYAns to attend 1766. Thank you so much and have a blessed and
with their parents. Happy New Year.
Kathy Glaros
Greek School Superintendent
Women’s Study Group
After taking a break for the holidays, we will continue
the study group on Tuesday January 19th from 10-
11:30 a.m. We will continue the series “A year of our Three Hierarchs Celebration
Lord: A Liturgical Bible Study”. All women in the
Mr. Theodoros Spyropoulos, president of the World
parish are welcome to join us for this lively discus- Council of Hellenes Abroad, will speak at the Annun-
sion and study. Bring your Bible and a friend! For ciation Greek School Three Hierarchs celebration on
more information, contact Presvytera Nicole at 440- Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. All are invited
638-4808 . to attend this celebration at Annunciation Cleveland.
PAGE 6 THE MESSENGER
Sunday School Lent will be upon us very early this year. As always,
Sunday School has many activities in which our stu-
Directors’ Monthly Update dents will participate. Please watch for flyers as well
as read the informational bulletin board in the Sunday
December was a busy month for Sunday School! We School hallway for special events. Our program
were overwhelmed from the response to the St. hopes to offer a variety of ways to learn Orthodoxy,
Nicholas gift offering. All of the gifts were taken to the but our volunteers can only be successful with the co-
North Royalton/Kiwanis Emergency Food Shelter by operation of Sunday School families.
Jean Wendland to whom we extend our appreciation.
Thank you, also to St. Paul families for your generos- In December our Middle School and High School Stu-
ity. We are comforted knowing that you shared your dents began working on the Oratorical Festival. This
bounteousness to help make a special holiday for is the second year that the program is up and running
those who are challenged in these difficult economic and the Festival organizers have asked Sunday School
times. to offer support and help for our students. Our High
School and Middle School teachers have graciously
Not only did our Sunday School students provide agreed to assist the students while they are in the
gifts for children, but our students also made a $400 classroom. Should a student show great interest in
monetary donation to the North Royalton/Kiwanis the project, the Festival organizers will assign a men-
Emergency Food Shelter. The monies were collected tor. The senior level student who participates and is
from stewardship envelopes last spring and this fall. moved to the District level will be awarded a full, four
Please continue to talk to your children about the year scholarship to the Hellenic College in Boston. As
spiritual obligation we have to care for others as well part of the College’s education, students are permitted
as this earth. The stewardship envelopes that were to take up to one class per grading period at nearby
given to your children at the beginning of the year Boston College. Please encourage your children to
provide a place for the child to write his giving act for participate, not only at a chance for the scholarship,
the week. Teachers collect the envelopes each week. but to grow as an Orthodox Christian.
We hope all of you enjoyed our children performing Finally, but not lastly, if your heart guides you to vol-
the 2nd annual Christmas Play. Watching the children unteer for Sunday School, even for a short time,
perform the play invited all of us to see and feel the please let one of us know. Val Sophocleous and
true meaning of the season. We extend our heartfelt Maria Koulioufas have graciously stepped in as li-
thank you and appreciation to Julie Maskow who did brarians. Both are working diligently to organize our
an amazing job organizing and directing the play. Sunday School reference materials and curriculum.
Julie spent many weeks working with our children, Thank you ladies!
designing and making costumes and coordinating our
volunteers. We further offer our gratitude to everyone We are, however, in need of someone who would be
who helped out. It was truly a cooperative spirit, and willing to fill-in for our 9th and 10th grade class, for a
the finest gift our community could receive this sea- few weeks in the winter. Also, as our younger popula-
son. tion continues to grow, we are in need of help for our
3 year old preschool program. Again, if you are will-
Sunday School will resume on Sunday, January 3rd ing and able to help out, please let us know.
when we will celebrate Vasilopita Sunday. We be-
lieve it is important for our students to experience Thank you for your continued support of our pro-
many of our wonderful traditions that usually take gram.
place in church while the children are in Sunday
School. So our students can participate in the cutting Wishing you all a blessed 2010,
of the bread and learn the significance of Saint Basil,
Sunday School will be cutting the Vasilopita the last Brenda Saridakis and Dena Wilson
fifteen minutes of classes in the teen room on January Co-Directors of St. Paul Sunday School
3rd. Parents of younger children, please plan on pick-
ing up your child from the teen room on that day.
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 7
A s we come to about the halfway point in
our Sunday School Year, I would like to
extend my gratitude to our supervisors
and all the wonderful teachers for their dedication
St. Paul Hellenic Dancers
Hellenic Dance practice began last fall and
will continue practice in 2010 on the dates
listed below. Dancers should be registered by January
and love for this important ministry in our parish.
10, 2010 to participate in the Program. Please be sure
to have you child’s registration form and $50.00 regis-
Equally, I would like to thank the parents and all the
tration fee per child ($80 non parish member) turned in
students for their participation in our Sunday School
by this date to any dance instructor or church office.
program thus far this year. We’ve had a wonderful
response in all classes and especially in the upper Group Levels:
levels. Please continue to attend for the remainder of Senior Dance Group – Grade 7 through age 20
the year. I would like to remind all parents that ALL Junior Dance Group – Grades 3 through 6
children in the parish should be enrolled in our Sun- Beginner Dance Group – Kindergarten through 2
day School program.
Practice Locations:
I would also like to remind all students that while in Senior Dancers practice in the Library
the classroom; all electronic devises should be Junior Dancers practice in the Lobby of the Social
turned off. You should not be texting anyone or talk- Hall
ing on your cell. Please give your attention to your Beginner Dancers practice in the 3rd grade Sunday
teachers and show them your respect. They are vol- School classroom
unteering their time to teach you our faith. Let’s Sunday Dance Practices begin at noon
keep up the good work, and I wish all of you a
Blessed and Healthy New Year!!! Sunday, January 3:
Mandatory practice for Senior Level to prepare for
performance ~ Pizza lunch before practice follow-
ing GOYA meeting
Sunday, January 10:
A Spotlight on . . . Registration Deadline (See form on the next page)
Practice for Beginner and Junior Levels
Fifth & Sixth Grade
No Senior Level Practice – GOYA tournament
Saturday, January 16:
Dear Family and Friends, Annunciation GOYA sponsored “Greek Night”
and “Hellenic Dance Off” ~ Performance by the
It has been a great year so far for our 5th and 6th grade
Senior Level Dance Group
Sunday school class. We are learning about the lives
Sunday, January 17:
of our Saints as well as studying about various tradi-
Dance Practice for Beginner and Junior Level Dance
tions of our Greek Orthodox faith. We are also spend-
Groups
ing some of our class time addressing issues such as
Possible Senior Level St. Paul Workshop with guest
peer pressure and the need to be committed to our
instructor. Details to follow (there will be Senior
Christian teachings. The children are doing an excel-
Dance Practice in the event the Workshop cannot
lent job identifying ways that they can model their
be scheduled)
behavior in a way that aligns with our values and be-
Sunday, January 31:
liefs. Our hope is that the time spent in our classroom
Practice All Three Levels
touches the children in a way that will make a differ-
Sunday, February 21:
ence in their life, and will establish a foundation of Practice All Three Levels
faith to lead them in the future. We are proud to
spend our Sunday’s with this terrific group of chil- Please view additional dates on our website or the 2010
dren and thank the parents for their efforts in bringing Practice schedule handed out at dance practice.
them to church on a regular basis.
Being a member of the St. Paul Hellenic Dance Group
May God Bless You, is active and exciting for all! All children are welcome
Kathy Pearl & Mary Steve and encouraged to be part of the program. Participants
PAGE 8 THE MESSENGER
are expected however to attend all the practice St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church
dates and events. If your family or child has a conflict 2009/2010 Hellenic Dance Registration Form
with any of the practice dates or events please let your
child’s dance instructors know as soon as possible so Please turn in Registration Form and
they can best prepare for the flow of dance line ups $50 Participation Fee by Jan. 10 to any
and costume needs. Dance Instructor or the Church Office
(Non parish member Participation Fee $80)
Please notice when looking at the schedule that our Group Levels:
dancers are invited to participate in additional per- Beginner Group – Age 4 (by Sept) through 2nd
formances besides our own St. Paul Hellenic Festival grade in fall 2009
this year. They include “GOYA Greek Night” on Junior Group – 3rd grade through 6th grade in
January 16, 2010 for the Senior Level at the Annun- fall 2009
ciation Church in Cleveland. This event is sponsored Senior Group – 7th grade through age 20 in fall
by the Annunciation GOYA who invited all the area 2009
church Senior Level Dance Groups to perform. Also
included is a performance after the “Greek Independ- Dancer Name___________________________________
ence Day Parade” on April 10, 2010 for the Junior Grade and Age in Fall 2009 _______________________
and Senior Levels, and a performance at the “Arts in Parent Names___________________________________
Strongsville” Festival at the Metropark Chalet in Address_______________________________________
Strongsville on September 19, 2010 for all three lev- Home Phone____________________________________
els. The “Arts in Strongsville” is a paid performance Parent Cell Phone________________________________
which includes a contract. This is an annual event Dancer Cell Phone (if applicable) __________________
that usually attracts over 3,000 people. There are Parent E-Mail___________________________________
many performances throughout the afternoon by vari- Dancer E-mail (if applicable) ______________________
ous vocal and instrumental groups. Each year they Please list any allergies or medical condition we
showcase a different ethnic performance group. We should be aware of: ______________________________
are very proud that our St. Paul Hellenic Dance Group Office use Only
was invited to be showcased this year. The invitation Parish Member #_______________Non Parish Member__________
is a compliment to our dancers and attendance is Fee Received: Date ________ Check#_________ Amount_________
Mandatory for all three levels. Additionally there
may be other performance opportunities that arise
and participation in the Hellenic Dance program in-
cludes participation in these events should they arise.
Senior Level Instructors:
Eleni Gugliotta 330-659-6610
Susan Karas 216-870-3182
Julie Masow 440-238-5474
Anna Psellas 440-572-1376
Junior Level Instructors:
Eleni Johnson 440-717-0852
Julie Tsiriambidis 440-717-9699
Maria Whitacre 330-571-1756
Beginner Level Instructors:
Maria Lignos 216-214-3735
Paige Nicholas 330-241-4363
St. Paul Hellenic Dance Group has experienced vi-
brant growth the past many years, we’re looking for-
ward to another enriching year!
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 9
2010 St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival same human nature with us and having everything
All children in grades 7 - 12 are encouraged to partici- else in common with us. But because he has shown
pate. The Oratorical Festival gives teenagers an op- a great love for Christ, he surpassed heaven and
portunity to learn, write, and speak about their Ortho- stood with the angels. . . Let us then not only be
dox Faith, Church and Heritage. Participating in the amazed at and admire him but imitate him.” In
Oratorical Festival will enhance each child’s under- what sense can we imitate St. Paul?
standing and appreciation of their Greek Orthodox 4. Aristotle, the great philosopher, in speaking about
Faith and will help cultivate their spiritual growth virtue as a superb human characteristic, calls it he-
and maturity. Guidance will be given during Sunday roic and divine in the Nicomachean Ethics, Book 7,
School. There are two levels set by the Archdiocese: 1145a20. Explain why human virtue is something
Junior, grades 7–9, and Senior, grades 10–12. truly heroic and divine, especially in our days and
in our world.
2010 topic for the Junior Division (grades 7-9): 2010 TIME LINE:
1. His all Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew is a cham- December 6, & 13, 2009 – Teachers discussed topics
pion of the environment. Present some teachings choices in Sunday School classes. Please ask your
of the Orthodox Church that support environ- child which topic he or she has chosen.
mental protection and explain how it should be Sunday December 13, 2009 – Topic selection should
practiced today. have been made on this date. If you child has not
2. Icons bring to life the teachings of the Orthodox yet completed their topic selection sheet please
Faith. In the icon of the Resurrection, Christ is por- have them do so and turn it in to his or her Sunday
trayed as lifting up Adam and Eve. Explain the School teacher as soon as possible.
meaning of this representation. Sunday January 3, 2010 – Progress and resources
3. “Love and death depend on our neighbor,” accord- will be checked in Sunday School. Students should
ing to St. Anthony the Great. Explore and expand begin putting together a rough draft.
on this teaching. Sunday January 10 & 17, 2010 - Progress will be
4. St. John of Damascus wrote many hymns for the checked in Sunday School. Students should bring
major feast days of the Church. Tell us about St. their papers to class even though they are not com-
John and his contribution to Orthodox hymnogra- plete.
phy. Sunday, January 31 – Rough draft paper due. Stu-
5. In the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee, we dents should e-mail their rough draft to
see that the prayer of the Publican was pleasing to frcostas@stpaulgoc.org. Fr. Costas will look over
God. Discuss the importance of humility in our papers and may offer further guidance.
prayers and in our daily lives. Sunday February 14 – February 21, 2010 - Final pa-
per due. Final papers should be e-mailed to
2010 topics for the Senior Division (grades 10-12):
frcostas@stpaulgoc.org no later than February 21st.
1. In Proverbs 12:26, we read, “The righteous should
Sunday February 28, 2010 - St. Paul Oratorical Fes-
choose his friends carefully, for the way of the
tival presentations will be held in the Library after
wicked leads them astray.” What is the Christian
Sunday School to fellow students, teachers, mentors,
understanding of friendship and how do social net-
parents and grandparents. Two students will be
working sites like Facebook and MySpace help or
chosen from each level to go to the Regional Oratori-
hinder true friendship?
cal Festival held in Youngstown, Ohio on Saturday,
2. Psalms are read in all Orthodox worship services.
March 6th.
Talk about the significance of Psalm 23 (24 LXX),
Friday March 5, 2010 – The two Finalists from each
which begins with the words, “The earth is the
level will present their papers in church after the
Lord’s, and all its fullness.”
Salutation Service.
3. The Annunciation is one of the Major Feast Days of
Saturday March 6, 2010 – Regional Oratorical Festi-
our Church. In her response to the Archangel
val in Youngstown, Ohio
Gabriel, Mary says, “I am the Lord’s servant. May
Saturday May 1, 2010 – Metropolis Oratorical Festi-
it happen to me as you have said.” As an Orthodox
val in Pittsburgh, PA
Christian, what does her response mean to you?
4. St. John Chrysostom closes his Commentary on St. Please contact Eleni Gugliotta 330-659-6610 or Kath-
Paul’s Epistle to the Romans with the following ryn Tripodis 440-843-7836 with any questions.
words: “Paul was a human being, sharing the
PAGE 10 THE MESSENGER
Philanthropic Opportunities
From Infants to College Students!
Donations of
The Philoptochos is excited to be working on two
wonderful projects for the youth of our community:
Nonperishable Goods
Gifts for the new infants of our church as well as gifts Appreciated!
for our college Freshmen.
The North Royalton Hunger Center is
If you enjoy knitting or crocheting, please MOST in need of the following items:
consider donating a baby afghan to be
placed in our Philoptochos gift bags for all * Breakfast Cereal * Jell-O/pudding
the new infants being blessed in our * Pancake Mix * Broth or Gravy Mix
church. We suggest that afghans be White, * Instant Potatoes * Canned fruit
Ecru, Light Green or Yellow in color and * Canned Soups * Pasta Sauce
approximately 30x36 inches. Donations are also ac- * Canned Applesauce * Boxed Dinners
cepted in lieu of hand-made afghans to offset the costs * Syrup * Dry pasta
of the project. * Canned Vegetables * Canned Tuna
* Macaroni & Cheese * Cake / Cookie Mix
Also, please consider donating to- * Canned Chicken * Jelly
wards our OCF Connect Kits for * Peanut butter * Canned Fruit
our college Freshmen. OCF * Muffin / corn bread / biscuit mix
(Orthodox Christian Fellowship) is
Remember to check the expiration date
the National Campus Ministry Program for Orthodox
of all products!T
college students. Each kit will be mailed to our St.
Paul College Freshmen that include Orthodox Study Thank you for your continued support!
Bibles, reading guides, prayer books, guides for find-
ing a local OCF chapter, as well as other fun goodies Give Forward
for our college students. Nine Connect Kits have been
sent to date and have been well received by our St.
In September 2009, Leah Dadas was
Paul college students. We plan to send another 6 kits
diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer
in the month of December.
that had metastasized to her lower
spine. Within two months of diagnosis, Leah under-
To assist or donate to these projects, please contact
went two biopsies, major surgery, numerous tests,
Maribeth Lekas @ 216.408.6070 or Mbleka@aol.com.
radiation therapy and is taking two medications.
Costs are mounting and Leah does not have insur-
ance. Donations are being accepted at http://
www.giveforward.org/leah/ or can be sent to Leah
Dadas’ Breast Cancer Fund at 4832 Sweetwater Drive,
Brecksville, 44141.
Are you, your friends, or neighbors having a garage
sale or cleaning out your house? Are you left with
lots of baby items? Please consider donating them to
ZOE House (a crisis pregnancy center located at 5939 Benevolent Fund
State Road in Parma and a ministry for ZOE for Life!)
Please consider making a donation to the Benevolent
Donations can be dropped off from Fund. The money collected is used to help those who
10:00—1:00 Wednesday through Friday are struggling due to financial or medical needs. We
or call (440) 888-9990 for more informa- receive many requests and are having difficulty fulfill-
tion or to arrange a pick-up of items. ing all those requests.
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 11
CHURCH SERVICES
All Sundays
8:15 AM Orthros
9:30 AM Liturgy
10:45 AM Sunday School
2010
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
1 New Year’s 2
Day
Saint Basil
9:00 AM
Orthros
10:00 AM
Liturgy
3 4 5 Eve of the 6 Holy 7 St. John the 8 9
Sunday before Theophany Theophany Baptist
Epiphany 5:30 PM Strict Fast 8:30 AM
8:30 AM
Greek School 9:00 AM Orthros
Orthros
Vasiloptia Vesperal 9:30 PM
Sunday Liturgy 9:30 AM Liturgy
6:30 PM Liturgy 6:30 PM
11:45 AM BOYS & GIRLS BOYS & GIRLS
GOYA Meeting BB Practice BB practice
House 7:30 PM
Blessings begin Bible Study
GOYA Tournament Warren
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
10:00 AM 6:30 PM
Sunday after 5:30 PM Women’s Study 7:00 PM BB practice
Epiphany Greek School Group Parish Council
7:30 PM
11:00 AM Meeting
Bible Study
Philop. Meeting
6:30 PM Girls
BB practice
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
10:00 AM 6:30 PM
15th Sunday of 5:30 PM Women’s Study 7:00 PM BOYS & GIRLS 7:00 PM
Luke Greek School Group Orthodox BB practice Pan-Orthodox
6:30 PM Catechism — YAL Gathering
7:30 PM
BOYS & GIRLS Session One
Bible Study
BB practice GOYA Tournament ~ Pittsburgh
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Three
Hierarchs
Sunday of the 6:30 PM
5:30 PM 10:00 AM 7:00 PM 8:30 AM
Publican and Boys
Greek School Women’s Study Orthodox Orthros
Pharisee: BB practice
Group Catechism — 9:30 PM
Triodion
Session Two 7:30 PM Liturgy
Begins
6:30 PM Girls Bible Study 3:00 PM
BB practice HOPE/JOY at
Young Chef’s
31 Sunday of
Prodigal Son
PAGE 12 THE MESSENGER
CHURCH SERVICES
All Sundays
8:15 AM Orthros
9:30 AM Liturgy
10:45 AM Sunday School
2010
SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT
1 2 Presentation 3 4 5 6 1st
of our Lord 6:15 PM Psychosabbato
5:30 PM 7:00 PM Paraklesis Saturday of the
Greek School 8:30 AM Orthodox Service Souls
Orthros Catechism — 8:30 AM
9:30 AM Session Three 6:30 PM Orthros
Liturgy BOYS & GIRLS 9:30 AM
10:00 AM BB Practice Liturgy
Women’s Study 11:00 AM
Group 7:30 PM Philoptochos
6:30 PM Bible Study Board Meeting
BOYS & GIRLS GOYA Tournament at St.
BB Practice Demetrios Rocky River
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 2nd
Judgment Sun- Psychosabbato
10:00 AM 7:30 PM
day (Meatfare 5:30 PM 7:00 PM Saturday of the
Women’s Study Bible Study
Sunday) Greek School Parish Council Souls
Group
Meeting 8:30 AM
1:00 PM Orthros
Philoptochos 9:30 AM
Meeting Liturgy
14 Godparent 15 Pure 16 17 18 19 20 3rd
Sunday Monday Psychosabbato
5:00 PM 7:30 PM
First day of 10:00 AM 5:30 PM Saturday of the
Pre-sanctified Bible Study
Forgiveness Lent Women’s Study Lenten Dinner Souls
Liturgy
Sunday 5:30 PM Group 8:30 AM
Greek School 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Orthros
7:00 PM Orthodox 1st Salutations 9:30 AM
Great Catechism — Liturgy
Compline Session Four 6:00 PM
Service Art Auction
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
5:30 PM 5:00 PM
7:30 PM
Sunday of Greek School 10:00 AM Pre-sanctified 5:30 PM
Bible Study
Orthodoxy Women’s Study Liturgy Lenten Dinner
7:00 PM Group 7:00 PM
Great Orthodox 7:00 PM
Compline Catechism — 2nd Salutations
Service Session Five
28
Sunday of St.
Gregory
Palamas
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 13
2010 In order to better serve those who wish to have their
homes blessed, we ask that you communicate with
Theophany of our Lord our parish office by doing one of the following by
(Home Blessings) Sunday, December 28th:
1) Call the office at (440) 237-8998
2) Fill out the form on our parish website at
The feast of Theophany marks the
www.stpaulgoc.org
time that our Lord was baptized
3) Complete the form on this page and return it
in the waters of the Jordan, and is
to the parish office.
termed the day of “Divine
Please note that Father Costas will be visiting homes
Manifestation” because of the
according to the schedule below:
revelation that day of Christ’s true identity, along
with that of the Holy Trinity. On January 5th, we will
Tuesday January 5 North Royalton
celebrate the Eve of the Feast day of Theophany with
Wednesday January 6 Brecksville
a Vesperal Divine Liturgy followed by the Blessing of
Thursday January 7 Seven Hills
the Waters. The Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan
Friday January 8 Brunswick
on January 6th by St. John the Baptist presents us with
Saturday January 9 Strongsville
a great mystery of God: “He who is the Master off all is
Monday January 11 Parma (29)
baptized by a servant, and He gives mankind cleansing
Tuesday January 12 Parma (34)
through water.” Many people also know this day as the
Wednesday January 13 Parma (30)
Feast of “Enlightenment or Illumination (τα φώτα).”
Thursday January 14 Independence
Λιγητ ισ ονε οφ τηε εαρτη’σ ρε αρκαβλε σθβστανψεσ.
Friday January 15 Broadview Hts.
St. Basil the Great, in his profound work on the six
Saturday January 16 Medina
days of creation, wrote that the marking of light was
Monday January 18 Any other area
God’s first gift and blessing to mankind. It has been
not covered
said that man has polluted the air, the land, the seas,
but light cannot be defiled. As part of our Orthodox
Name
Christian Tradition, we have our homes blessed
following these services. Address
Zip Code
What is a House Blessing?
In celebration of Theophany, Orthodox Christians Phone Number
invite Christ not only into their hearts, but also their
homes, and we call upon Him to bring the blessings Please check one: Morning
of the Jordan into our daily lives. We do this by Afternoon
having the priest bless our homes with the Holy Evening
water from the service of Theophany, offering prayers
for our health, our family and the Lord’s abundant
blessings in the coming year.
What do I need to do?
Consult the list below to find out when Father Costas EPHIPHANY SERVICES
will be visiting your area. Before the priest arrives at
your home for the blessing, prepare on a table an EVE OF EPIPHANY Tuesday, January 5th
icon, a bowl of water, a candle, a censor, and a list of 9:00 AM Vesperal Liturgy
names of all the Christians in your household. Please 10:30 AM Lesser Blessing of Water
note, when father arrives at your home, turn off the
TV set and radio, and have everyone stand in EPIPHANY Wednesday, January 6th
reverence for the brief service. Everyone is welcome 8:30 AM Orthros
to participate in this service by singing the responses 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy
with Father Costas. 10:30 AM Great Blessing of Water
PAGE 14 THE MESSENGER
Philoptochos News To individual board members who have made a dif-
ference, we owe a debt of gratitude. To Evangeline
A NOTE FROM OUR REC. SEC., ANN ZAMPETIS Bozikis and her committee getting all the food dona-
Χρόνια Πολλά to everyone!! Best wishes for a tions to the hunger center and for keeping us con-
health, peace-filled, joyous and productive New nected to the Eastern Orthodox Women’s Guild; to
Year! A fresh, new start, with so much to look for- Angela Christian making sure that all in need of a
ward to! We would like to thank everyone who sup- little cheer, is mailed a card; to Rae Elliott who keeps
ported our Christmas Bake Sale, our “Breakfast with us informed with all our meetings and events; to
St. Nick”, ( especially to Kathryn Tripodis and Renee Eva Emanuel assuring that our Sunday coffee teams
Steffas for co-chairing this event and making it so suc- are there to set up and to assist the families offering
cessful!). We thank all the ladies and guests who at- the delicious pastries; to Presvytera Nicole for as-
tended the “JOLLY HOLIDAY PARTY” and enjoyed a sisting Angela and making sure that we are aware
lovely evening of Christmas spirit while entertained who needs our phone calls and our prayers; to
by the delightful, handsome teen sensation: Paris Gy- Maribeth Lekas for getting Orthodox connect kits
parakis! We are also thankful for the generous dona- (holy bibles, prayer books, etc.) to our college fresh-
tions made for Saint Basil’s Academy by our members men, and for asking us to make baby blankets for
and guests that evening. We also want to thank our the newly churched infants; to Mary Pagonakis and
local Daughters of Penelope Chapter for their gener- her committee visiting the ill and the shut-ins and
ous donation of groceries for the North Royalton Hun- taking care of our fundraising events; to Irene Pon-
ger Center. We are indeed blessed by a very loving, tikos, who volunteers for as many committees as her
caring, and generous community here at St. Paul personal life allows; to Elaine Poulos, who picks up
Church. Remember…….ALL OF YOU ARE THE all the loose ends by volunteering to take care of
BODY OF THE CHURCH OF ST PAUL. The struc- whatever needs a quick resolution and for starting
ture is here…..but YOU ALL BRING IT TO LIFE and our meetings with a beautiful inspirational reading;
make it happen . God Bless each and everyone of to Ruth Saridakis who keeps our closets supplied
you!! with all the items needed for our coffee socials; to
Sylvia Sfekas who does a great job balancing the
Some reminders for upcoming events for 2010 that we
books; to Ann Zampetis who is a great record
hope our ladies from St. Paul will join us for are:
keeper of meetings; to all the ladies who come to
Jan. 3: VASILOPITA SUNDAY with a special tray bake with us for the coffee social bakery or for our
collection for St. Βasil’s Academy bake sales who are too numerous to mention but
Jan. 12: WELCOME THE NEW YEAR Brunch Meet- from those on our board: Mersene Conomea, Julie
ing at 10:45 AM at Flair Rest. Fr. James Langos, Olympia Sarris, Pam Sitter; to Stephanie
Doukas, from St. Demetrios will be our guest Ocker and to Renee Steffas, who, although having
speaker on the topic of: Philanthropy. full time jobs assist us in every way they can. To
Father Costas, our spiritual adviser, we extend a
Apr. 10 : EPICUREAN FEAST here at the church.
great big thank you for his guidance, love, patience
Apr. 17 : DAFFODIL LUNCHEON in Pittsburgh,
and gentle hand in steering us in the right direction.
A NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT, TESSIE LEKAS Please add Philoptochos to your list of resolutions.
We wish each and everyone God’s blessings for the You may contact any one of the ladies mentioned
new year. At the beginning of each year, with our above to volunteer your time. Becoming a member
lives now settling down after the hectic days of the or renewing your membership will also be greatly
holiday season, we make resolutions to bring into fo- appreciated.
cus the changes we must make to better our own lives.
But we must not forget a resolution to improve the Philoptochos participation is what the Bible tells us
lives of the less fortunate. in 1 Timothy, Chapter 6, verses 18-19: “Let them do
good that they be rich in good works, ready to give,
This past year, as in every year, the Philoptochos gov- willing to share, storing up for themselves a good
erning board along with much assistance from foundation for the time to come, that they may lay
its members has resolved to do everything possible to hold on eternal life.”
improve the lives of those who have fallen on difficult
times.
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 15
St. John the Baptist This holy relic was brought to Antioch by St. Luke, a
native of Syria, who caused to be erected a chapel
January 7 dedicated o the memory of St. John, a not too preten-
tious edifice which attracted thousands of Christian
About two years before Jesus Christ began his mis- pilgrims, many of whom received miraculous cures at
sion, John the Baptist, known the site. For more than eight hundred years this site
as the “forerunner” of the beckoned Christians from all corners of the Empire,
Messiah, appeared publicly in including those from the great capital of Constantin-
a personal appeal for morality ople, the seat of the Emperor Constantine of the house
which undoubtedly was in- of the so-called Porphyrogenitoi. It was the emperor’s
strumental in setting the mood fondest wish that all the holy relics of St. John be
for a reception of the Lord in a brought to the capital city, there to be accessible to
world which otherwise might many more thousands than in Antioch.
have been less responsive. It
was about the year 27, in the A young deacon by the name of Job was assigned the
reign of Tiberius, that John duty of carrying back to the center of the Byzantine
chose the rather hostile region Empire the sacred relics of St. John the Baptist. With
of Judea, not far from the an observance of the most solemn ceremony, a proces-
Dead Sea, as the scene of his campaign, in which he sion headed by the emperor and the patriarch brought
employed a compelling oratory and the symbolic bap- the holy remains to the magnificent Cathedral of
tism in preparation for the next world. Orthodoxy Hagia Sophia, appropriately enough on September 14,
considers him to be an angel of the Lord, one who pre- the day of the Elevation of the Holy Cross of Jesus
pared the way for Jesus Christ, acknowledging him as Christ. The celebration lasted for several days, the
the Son of God, and one who died for the Savior. time it took for countless thousands who streamed to
the cathedral to pay their respects and to pray at the
According to St. Luke, the “Glorious Physician,” St. site of the sacred relic of one of Christendom’s mighti-
John the Baptist was a native of the city of Judah, the est saints.
son of Zacharias and Elizabeth, both of whom were of
deeply religious lineage. The generation of St. John, It was evident after many years that the most appro-
the first generation to know the grace and truth of Je- priate site for the holy remains of St. John the Baptist
sus Christ, comprised a humanity that ranged from was not in a public place where the sanctity was di-
wild paganism to holy asceticism. It was the aim of minished in the babble of the crowds, however, pious,
the Baptist to bring all classes to know the nearness of but that these relics should abide in the aura of com-
the Kingdom and the need for repentance as a prepa- pletely ascetic surroundings. The relics were therefore
ration for admission. The drama of St. Paul’s meeting transferred to the great monastery of Mount Athos, a
with Christ is equaled in solemnity with the meeting cloister of hallowed monastic edifices among which is
of St. John the Baptist with Jesus, but it was the high one called Dionysiou, chosen as the final resting place
honor of St. John to baptize the Son of God. for the relics of St. John the Baptist, over which pious
monks stand vigil.
St. John is adequately referred to in the Bible, and
there is no Christian that does not know of his service The monastic community of Mount Athos, virtually
and that he ultimately was imprisoned in the dun- inaccessible on a precipitous promontory extending
geons of Machaerus and brutally murdered at the or- twenty miles into the sea, is now open to all who
der of Herod Antipas. After his death there ensued a would care to pray at the Chapel of Dionysiou, where
veneration that commenced with the recovery of part reposes the right hand of St. John the Baptist, whose
of his remains in the early Byzantine era and endures memory is commemorated on January 7, the day fol-
in Orthodoxy. According to Luke, the body of the lowing that of the Lord’s baptism.
Baptist was buried in Sebastia in Samaria and cher-
ished as a shrine by the Samaritans who allowed St.
Luke to take with him the right had of the great Bap- Orthodox Saints (I)
George Poulos
tist. Holy Cross Orthodox Press
PAGE 16 THE MESSENGER
SATURDAY OF SOULS
PSYHOSABBATO
The Orthodox Church has designated certain days
of the year for special prayer services for the dead:
The Saturday before Meatfare Week and Cheesefare
Week and the Saturday before the first Sunday in
Lent. The Saturday prior to Pentecost is also a
Saturday of Souls.
Of these days, the Church remembers all the saints
and our deceased loves ones. Our church prays for
all the dead to express their faith that all who have
fallen asleep in the Lord live in the Lord. Whether
on earth or in heaven, the Church is a single family,
one body in Christ. Death changes the location, but
it cannot server the bond of love. On Memorial
Saturdays, the liturgical hymns pray universally for
all of the departed.
“With the saints, give rest oh Lord to the souls of
your servants, where there is no pain or suffering,
but life everlasting.” May their memory be eternal!
Prepare a tray of koliva and/or complete the section
below with FIRST NAMES ONLY and return it to
the church office.
February 6th February 13th February 20th
Y es, I would like to help the church save money.
Please send the following items to me via email:
Monthly Messenger
Quarterly statements
Letters and other correspondence
Name
Email
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 17
Stewardship Update
We began 2009 with 169 Stewards pledging $92,761 and finished the year with 407 Stewards who pledged
$222,687. The Stewardship Committee is happy to report that we are beginning 2010 with 239 Stewards who
have pledged $136,772! Thank you to everyone who has made a commitment to our parish and its ministries.
Without your support we could not offer the many programs available to our parishioners.
Below are the current 2010 stewards of our parish. Please call the church office if you feel your name was inad-
vertently not included on this list. Please note that these names and figures are as of December 11, 2009.
Agapetus, Sam Cozzarin, Kathryn Hazinakis, Nick Laios, Alex J.
Alex, Angie Curley, Shaun & Catherine Hoiseth, David & Michelle Lamakos, Alice
Alex, Dean & Paula Dadas, Erin Hourmouzis, Peter & Bess Lavdas, Jason & Olga
Alex, Michael & Rose Ellen Dadas, Gus & Helen Hovanec, George & Cindy Lavdas, Leon & Penny
Alex, Peter & Teddi Dadas, Mike & Georgia Iula, Christopher & Rhonee Lekas, Stephen & Maribeth
Anastasakis, Pete & Theresa Dallas, Rocky & Rose James, John & Theresa Lekas, Tessie
Anastos, James Daniels, Clara Javaras, William & Anne Lekutis, George & Yvonne
Anastos, Mary Daniels, John & Victoria Johnson, Frank & Eleni Lindemann, Ray & Vera
Asmis, Anthony & Peggy Daniels, Scott Kadras, James & Stella Linz, Joseph & Emerald
Asmis, George & Sandy Daniels, Steve & Elaine Kalina, Richard & Maria Loizos, John & Estelle
Asmis, Nick & Tina Daniels, Thomas & Ellen Kaloger, Nicki Loizos, Michael & Sophia
Balis, Odess Delsander, Elizabeth Kalucis, Chris & Sue Loucas, George & Sandra
Barkoukis, Michael & Hope Dimitris, Jim Z. Kalucis, John & Aristi Louis, Loizos
Begam, James & Chrisanne Downing, Jerod & Christina Kanas, Mary Makiaris, James & Diane
Boukis, Kenneth & Packy Dunn, Darren & Maria Kantartzis, Elizabeth Makris, Bessie
Boukis, Peter & Lauren Eakman, Mark Kantartzis, James & Calliope Mamais, Anthony
Boukis, Steve & Vaso Economou, Jim & Despina Karagiozis, Anthony & Gail Maragos, Pete & Daniela
Bozikis, Pete & Evangeline Elliott, George & Rae Karas, Arthur & Susan Marakas, Thalia
Callas, Dean & Betty Emanuel, Eva Karas, Chris & Dea Maropis, George & Helen
Callas, George & Athena Emanuel, George A. Karas, George & Judy Marquardt, Eric & Daphne
Caloumenos, Athena Evanich, Norman & Katherine Karas, Sylvia Master, Mary
Cameron, David & Ellie Faatuiese, Ergetti Kargiotis, Evan & Minnie Mastronicolas, Bill & Diane
Cappas, Domnichi Fourmas, Thomas Katsaros, Nick & Connie Mavros, Chris & Kathy
Cappas, Samuel & Elaine Gaitanaros, Doula Katzakis, Gus & Kimberley Mazzeo, David & Debbie
Carlotta, Vickie Gallagher, Georgia & Katzakis, Maria McClatchey, Jay & Nitsa
Carvaines, John & Becky Rodriquez, Manny Kavourias, Terry McClish, Robert & Tammy
Charnas, Gary & Athena Geanneses, Antoinette Keares, Rev. Fr. Costas & Nicole Mersinas, Marguerite
Choukalas, Peter Gemelas, George & Sophia Kiriazis, Phillip & Maureen Moll, Bill & Becky
Cole, Thomas & Marilyn Gianiotis, Mary Kiriazis, Samuel & Christine Montemarano, James & Julie
Collaros, Mary Gigis, Tom & Eva Knouff, Gary & Myra Moraitis, Nicholas & Helen
Colovas, Anthone Gilbride, Joseph & Valerie Kokkas, Theodore & Joanna Mount, Jonathan & Angela
Conomea, Mersene Glyptis, Kety Kornelakis, John & Angeline Moutsios, Louis
Contoveros, Paul & Karen Goulandris, Angelo Koutsoulias, Anastasia Nackowiz, Robert & Elaine
Cook, Chris & Stacey Goulis, Pete & Diane Krokos, Gus & Caliope Natsis, Arthur & Effie
Cooke, Albert & Elaine Gregory, Jim & Connie Krokos, John & Frances Nichols, George & Annette
Cooke, Stephanie Gugliotta, John & Eleni Krokos, Mathew & Areti Nickolas, Carrie
Corpas, Constantine & Molly Harris, Katherine Kucharski, Donald & Elena Nikolaou, George & Kathy
Coundourides, Joyce Hassel, Thomas & Martha Kulwicki, Jason & Cathy Ocker, Stephanie
PAGE 18 THE MESSENGER
Overbaugh, Gregory & Lee Shinas, George
Pagonakis, Joseph G. Siamidis, John
Stewardship Envelopes
Pagonakis, Mary Sitter, Jim & Pam
Just as a reminder, you should have received your
Palkovic, Franklin & Marie Smith, Kenneth & Demetra 2010 stewardship envelopes in the mail. Instead of
Papadopoulos, Soc. & Eftehia Stamas, Michael & Nancy receiving ONE BOX of envelopes for the entire year
Papanikolaou, Mike & Helen Stamopoulos, Tony & Ann at the beginning of each year, you will now receive
Pappas, Christopher & Tiffoni Stassis, Gus & Persi by mail, every other month, envelopes for the next
Pateras, Barbara Steffas, John & Diana two upcoming months. So, six times a year you will
Pateras, Poppy Steffas, Nick & Renee receive two months worth of envelopes in the mail
Paul, Harry Steffas, Tom & Jamie at home. This new system will help us maintain
Paxitzis, Mary Stergiou, Petros & Mary more current records in the office as new stewards
are added to our mailing, or as others move away
Payamgis, George & Jennifer Steve, Paul & Mary
and they have no need for the envelopes anymore.
Pearl, Michael & Katherine Sullivan, James & Karen
Perk, Kathleen Tartara, Michael & Connie We ask that you please use these envelopes regu-
Perko, Annamari & Robert Tartara, Tim & Fran larly. If you cannot be in church on a given Sunday,
Petsas, George & Gail Tetkowski, Conda or you miss a number of Sundays, please use the
Pimpas, Angelo & Mary Jo Themelis, George & Elizabeth enclosed self-addressed envelope to mail your stew-
Pistiolas, George & Maria Theodore, George & Irene ardship contribution to the office.
Pontikos, Bill & Irene Theodorou, Christ & Kristine
Popadiuk, Mike & Elizabeth Timms, Ronald & Barbara May God bless you abundantly for your support.
Poulos, George Trakas, Peter & Kathy
~ The Stewardship Committee
Poulos, Gust & Dorothy Tripodis, Chris & Kathryn
Poulos, Nick & Chong Tsesmelis, Efstathios & Asimo
Poulos, Philip Valantasis, Thomas & Rose
Psellas, John & Anna Valente, Carl & Katherine
Pyros, Fannie Varouhas, Emmanuel & Olga
Raab, Lindsey Vasilakis, Constantine & Eleni
Rackas, John & Christine Vasilakis, Joe & Roberta
Rahas, Dean & Lisa Vasilakis, Mary
Rahas, Pete & Amber Vedouras, John & Emily
Regan, Andrew & Maria Vondrasek, Deanna
Rossi, Ernest & Betty Vondrasek, Dennis & Diane
Salvo, Salvatore & Katina Vourliotis, John
Sampson, Adam & Samantha Wayda, Ken & Kathy
Saridakis, Betty Wendland, Jean
Saridakis, George & Denise Wendland, Thomas & Beth
Saridakis, Louise Whitacre, Kyle & Maria
Saridakis, Manuel & Ruth Wilson, Drew & Dena
Saridakis, Michael & Brenda Yeager, Connor & Eva
Saris, Viola Zafirau, William & Kelly
Sarris, Mathew Zylko, Helen
Savas, Betty
Savas, Dennis & Mary
Sejka, Cynthia
Sfekas, Michael & Dorothy
Sfekas, Mike & Sylvia
Shamblin, Brian & Susan
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 19
Starting off the New Year Right . . . An
Appeal for Regular Worship
Etiquette Corner The beginning of each New Year gives us the opportu-
nity to make a new start in our spiritual life. What
Some things you should know while attending an better way to do this than to pledge ourselves to regu-
Orthodox Christian Church lar Sunday worship?
In the Orthodox Christian Church, there are a lot of
customs and traditions that are important parts of our There is a scene in the Bible that portrays four living
worship. Some are cultural; some are simply pious creatures (a lion, a calf, a man, an eagle) uttering this
customs. Some are essential; some are not. From time prayer day and night without ceasing:
-to-time, we need to address some of these various “Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty,
etiquette issues to inform our communities how we Who was and is and is to come!” (Revelation 4:8)
can best understand each other and work together to
worship the All-Holy Trinity. The Orthodox Church has always emphasized wor-
ship. Its rich hymnology reveals how much our fore-
fathers and foremothers in the faith worshiped and
KISS (DON’T SHAKE) THE PRIEST’S AND prayed. We chant in our services, quoting the Psalm-
BISHOP’S HAND ist.
“Lord, I cry out to you; make hast to me . . .
Did you know that the proper way to greet a priest or Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my
bishop is asking his blessing and kiss his right hand? supplications!”
How do you do this? The traditional Orthodox man-
ner is to approach the priest or bishop with your right The Scriptures urge Christians always to be praying to
hand over your left hand and, optionally, say “Father, know God’s mercy. The Apostle Paul wrote (II Thes-
bless” (or in the case of hierarch, “Master, bless). This salonians 5:16-18):
is much more appropriate and traditional in the
“Rejoice always, Pray without ceasing
church sense than shaking their hand. After all, the
In everything give thanks;
priest and bishop are not just “one of the boys.”
For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
When you kiss their hand you show respect for their
office and receive the blessing of Christ which they Our Lord said it best when he was tempted by the
have been ordained by God to offer. Why even honor Devil at the beginning of his enlightened ministry:
their hand? They are the ones who “bless and sanc-
tify” us and who offer with their right hand the Holy “You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only
Gifts to us. Please also note: the clergy may also ex- you shall serve.” (Matthew 4:10)
tend the traditional kiss of peace as mentioned in the
Bible (a kiss on each cheek), but this is not always Through regular worship, God remains central in our
done and should only be after receiving the blessing. hearts, His teaching, too, guides our behavior.
And on the subject of properly honoring the office “One does not live by bread alone, but by every word
(not just the person) of the priesthood or the episco- that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)
pacy, please remember that outside the services, it is
always proper to stand up when the priest or bishop These were the unforgettable words of Jesus when he
enters the room (such as in a meeting or other event). overcame the temptations of Satan. As we make regu-
In doing so, we honor Christ, from Whom all priest- lar worship a holy habit, we shall find divine inspira-
hood is received. tion to live in Christ.
~Orthodox Christianity / On Church Etiquette Let’s start the New Year in Church each Sunday!
~ Author unknown
PAGE 20 THE MESSENGER
GOD IS LIKE......... Festival Update
A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her I hope all of you had a very happy and healthy Holi-
class to look at TV commercials and see if they could day Season.
use them in some way to communicate ideas about
God. Here are some of the results: In my last correspondence I was a little too conserva-
tive in our final figures for the 2009 Grecian Festival.
BAYER ASPIRIN Our total gross ended up at $233,000 and our net was
He works miracles. $129,000. Both figures were the best that we have ever
accomplished. Every year for the last several years we
a FORD have always done better than the year before, so this
He's got a better idea. year will be even a bigger challenge to do better.
Keep in mind that this is our biggest fundraiser that
COKE we have so it is important that every parishioner who
He's the real thing. is able to come and help us does so that we can con-
tinue this success. The dates for this year’s festival are
July 15—18, 2010.
HALLMARK CARDS
He cares enough to send His very best.
On April 19th we will start up the baking committee.
They will bake every Monday and Tuesday starting at
TIDE 9:00 a.m. Every year we increase the amount of bak-
He gets the stains out that others leave behind.
ing that we do so we need more parishioners to come
and help us.
GENERAL ELECTRIC
He brings good things to life. Also, if anyone has any pictures from last year’s festi-
val, please let me know since I am looking for new
SEARS pictures for our television commercials.
He has everything.
In closing, I want to wish every parishioner a very
ALKA-SELTZER healthy and prosperous New Year!
Try him, you'll like Him.
God Bless,
SCOTCH TAPE ~ John James
You can't see him, but you know He's there.
DELTA
He's ready when you are.
ALLSTATE
You're in good hands with Him.
VO-5 Hair Spray
He holds through all kinds of weather.
DIAL SOAP
Aren't you glad you have Him. Don't you wish every-
body did.
the U.S. POST OFFICE
Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep
JULY 15 - 18, 2010
Him from His appointed destination.
JANUARY 2010 PAGE 21
ST. PAUL SENIOR FELLOWSHIP
OUR “KAFENION”
BOOKSTORE ATTENTION—
A ministry of St. Paul Church
The last THURSDAY of every month at 2:00 pm
Open every Sunday during coffee social
there will be a gathering of parishioners to
socialize and share. This gathering will take
Many new items have been added! ! !
place in our St. Paul Hellenic Center.
You will find gifts for everyone on your list. Gift The intent is to promote “PHILOXENIA”. We
Certificates are available if you are unsure of can exercise our talking skills, game playing,
what to buy for that special person. lecturing, video viewing, or whatever each of
you would like to participate in.
Stop by and see us soon!
The number of people who are interested in
attending will determine the success of our
planned Kafenion each month.
The St. Paul Senior’s organizing committee
will provide coffee and donuts.
Have you notified us of
your recent move? Keep the last Thursday of each month, as the
Please complete the date to mark on your calendar!!!!
following form and
return it to the church Should you have any questions, please feel
office. free to call:
Ted / Sophie Steffas (440) 439-6780
Andy / Maria Regan (440) 842-4331
Name
Address
City
State ZIP
Phone
E-mail
Return to: St. Paul Greek Orthodox Church
4548 Wallings Road
North Royalton, OH 44133-3121
Information can also be e-mailed to
messenger@stpaulgoc.org
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ST. PAUL GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH US POSTAGE PAID
4548 Wallings Road Permit No. 2913
North Royalton, OH 44133-3121 CLEVELAND, OHIO
Address Service Requested
The Staff of “Come Receive The Light” is made up
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that are both Local and National. Together, they
make a comprehensive mix of professionals who
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Subscribe to the Come Receive The Light e-
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