more than 40 years! Tasia was presented

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1 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA T HE CROSS+ROADS Volume April 2016 Issue INSIDE THIS ISSUE: April Sundays 1-3 Acolyte & Epistle Readers Schedule Through the Bible A Z Registry / Announcements Church, Club & Community News SCH 6 Our Lenten Journey 8-9 PC Minutes 10 Calendar 11 Hi-Lites Sunday of Holy Cross April 3 Saint John Climacus April 10 Saint Mary of Egypt April 17 Palm Sunday April 24 Centurion Donor Profile page 7 Tsourekia on Sale Now page 5 F ROM FATHER GEORGE P ASSING THROUGH As we find ourselves in a period of time of changing weather we can all feel the differences not only in temperature but the difference of light and darkness. Just a few weeks ago we changed our clocks forward losing an hour of sleep and in many cases awakening in the morning to darkness. On May 1st we will be in our dark Church awaiting the light of gladness which will come out of the Holy Altar in the form of the Paschal candle representing Christ, the life that is the light of all people. If we were to analyze the word Pasch, we would see the reference of a passing through. We know from the Old Testament that the Jews fled the slavery of Egypt in order to be free and reach the Promised Land. We Orthodox Christians celebrate Pascha as a passing from death into life. The victory of our Lord over death laid down the ability for all of us in having eternal life. He, the One who has power over death handed Himself over to death so that we, His children would be able to live His Resurrection The time for preparation is before us. The Lenten services were not placed on the calendar to keep the Priests off the streets. Rather, we have the opportunity to come together as a Community of Faithful to read the Psalms of the services and humble ourselves in becoming fully human in Christ. Let us not waste any opportunities. Let us walk Holy and Great Lent together as a family hand in hand living the services and walking the walk of righteousness. T HANK YOU TASIA!!! GOD BLESS YOU. On Sunday, March 6, 2016 following the Divine Liturgy, the Parish Council and friends in the community hosted a celebration honoring Tasia Savrides on her retirement. Tasia has faithfully served our Parish of Saints Constantine and Helen as an administrative professional for more than 40 years! Tasia was presented a gift of appreciation from the community as well as an icon of Saints Peter and Paul by Father George and Parish Council President, Barry Hendricks; an icon that is near and dear to Tasia's heart. The Philoptochos Society, The AHEPA and Daughter's of Penelope and the Hellenic Women's Penelope Society jointly offered a gift of appreciation as well, for the many years of support that Tasia offered the organizations of the Church during her time in the office. The following congratulatory messages were also offered from afar via "electronic telegram" from the following priests that we have been fortunate enough to have had in our community... "Tessie, Our prayers are with you and we hope and pray that your retirement is long, healthy, and full of all the good things that God has to offer. Father Steve, Presbytera Maria and Family Saint Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church Charlotte, North Carolina "My Dearest Tessie, I find that words are not enough to express the appreciation that so may of us have for all you have done in service to our Lord and the Church. During my time in Newport News I always found you to be hard working, loyal, friendly, and truly concerned for the well-bring of the community of Saints Constantine and Helen and its parishioners. You taught me so much, were always a good friend to me and beloved by everyone. The church was fortunate to have had your faithful service for so many years. I pray that God will grant you many more years to enjoy your children and grandchildren as you turn to a new chapter in your life. I know I express the thoughts of many when I quote the Parable of the Talents of Matthew, Chapter 25, when the master says, "Well done good and faithful servant! God bless you Tessie and thank you! In Service to the Risen Lord, Father John Theodosion Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church Randolph, New Jersey (Continued on page 4)

2 The Cross+Roads Page 2 Glory Be To God Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Phone (757) Fax (757) Addresses: priest@ office@ parishcouncil@ youthdirector@ webmaster@ admin@ schgochurch.va.goarch.org Office Hours Monday Through Friday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Priest Father George Chioros Work Home Mobile frgchioros@aol.com Parish Council Barry Hendricks, President Barbara France, V.P. Joanna Vallas, Treasurer Zena Mageras, Assistant Treasurer Robert Demson, Secretary Konstantinos Fotiadis Dr. Bobby Garofalis Tom Grepiotis Jason Holbrook Peter Johns Howard Mandeville Chanters John Siokis Harry Fotiou Alex Constantine John Williams Church Secretary Sylvia Marcin Archdiocese on the web A PRIL SUNDAYS Apolytikion for Saints Constantine & Helen, Equal-to-the Apostles in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone Having seen the image of Thy Cross in Heaven, and like Paul, having received the call not from men, Thine apostle among kings entrusted the commonwealth to Thy hand, O Lord. Keep us always in peace, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, O only Friend of man. Τοῦ Σταυροῦ σου τὸν τύπον ἐν οὐρανῷ θεασάμενος, καὶ ὡς ὁ Παῦλος τὴν κλήσιν οὐκ ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δεξάμενος, ὁ ἐν βασιλεύσιν, Ἀπόστολός σου Κύριε, Βασιλεύουσαν πόλιν τὴ χειρί σου παρέθετο ἣν περίσωζε διὰ παντὸς ἐν εἰρήνῃ, πρεσβείαις τῆς Θεοτόκου, μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε. APRIL 3, 2016 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:1-6 GOSPEL READING Mark 8:34-38; 9:1 The Lord said: "If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? For what can a man give in return for his life? For whoever Philoptochos Trish Demson, President Religious Education Viola Nicholls Allen, Director Greek School Paula Tofalli, Aphrodite Christopoulos Youth Ministry Stephanie Peri and Kent Paumier, Advisors Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Helen Micha, Director is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." And he said to them, "Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God come with power." SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of the Holy Cross With the help of God, we have almost reached the middle of the course of the Fast, where our strength has been worn down through abstinence, and the full difficulty of the labour set before us becomes apparent. Therefore our holy Mother, the Church of Christ, now brings to our help the all-holy Cross, the joy of the world, the strength of the faithful, the staff of the just, and the hope of sinners, so that by venerating it reverently, we might receive strength and grace to complete the divine struggle of the Fast. Nicetas, Abbot of the Monastery of Medicium Joseph the Hymnographer HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Third Mode Let the Heavens rejoice; let earthly things be glad; for the Lord hath wrought might with His arm, He hath trampled upon death by death. The first-born of ACOLYTES APRIL 17 Team A - Dominic Peri Kostas Polyzos, Jorgie Polyzos, James St. Martin, Yianni Tsimplekis, Dean Peri APRIL 3 & 24 Team B - Christian Detweiler Hayden Hendricks, Michael Christou, Anthony Capobianco, Cris Campbell, Ethan Detweiler APRIL 10 Team C - Joseph Dennie Georgios Haramis, Christos Konstantinou, Christopher Myers, Soterios Tofalli, Kyprianos Tofalli EPISTLE READERS April 3: Nick Vlattas April 10: Eleni Haramis (GOYA) April 17: Helen George April 23 (Saturday of Lazarus: Barry Hendricks April 24: Howard Mandeville April 27 (Holy Unction): Mary Katherine Galoozis, Dominic Peri, Samantha Pingley, Christian Detweiler, Nicolette St. Martin, Fofi Gouletas, Eleni Haramis April 30 (Holy Saturday Morning): Christina Constantine May 1 (Resurrection): Dimitrios Konstantinou P ARISH MINISTRIES & ORGANIZATIONS Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA) Mary Katherine Galoozis, President Kent Paumier, Advisor Young Adult League (YAL) Anastasia Theodorogiannis, President Golden Hearts Helen George, President Order of AHEPA Newport News Tom Georges, President Daughters of Penelope Joanna Vallas, President Hellenic Womens Penelope Society Marika Anthony, President Hellenic Youth Dancers Bobby Garofalis, Director

3 The Cross+Roads Page 3 the dead hath He become. From the belly of Hades hath He delivered us, and hath granted great mercy to the world. Apolytikion for Sun. of the Holy Cross in the First Mode Save, O Lord, Thy people and bless Thine inheritance; grant Thou unto the faithful victory over adversaries. And by the power of Thy Cross do Thou preserve Thy commonwealth. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!" WISDOM OF THE FATHERS And see how He also makes His discourse unexceptionable: not saying at all, "whether you will, or no, you must suffer this," but how? "If any man will come after me." - St. John Chrysostom, Homily 55 on Matthew 16, 1. B#54, p.339., 4th Century APRIL 10, 2016 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 6:13-20 GOSPEL READING Mark 9:17-31 At that time, a man came to Jesus kneeling and saying: "Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit; and wherever it seizes him it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able." And he answered them, "O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me." And they brought the boy to him; and when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, "How long has he had this?" And he said, "From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you can do anything, have pity on us and help us." And Jesus said to him, "If you can! All things are possible to him who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!" And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again." And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, "He is dead." But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, "Why could we not cast it out?" And he said to them, "This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting." They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he would not have any one know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he will rise." SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of St. John Climacus The memory of this Saint is celebrated on March 30, where his biography may be found. He is celebrated today because his book, The Ladder of Divine Ascent, is a sure guide to the ascetic life, written by a great man of prayer experienced in all forms of the monastic polity; it teaches the seeker after salvation how to lay a sound foundation for his struggles, how to detect and war against each of the passions, how to avoid the snares laid by the demons, and how to rise from the rudimental virtues to the heights of Godlike love and humility. It is held in such high esteem that it is universally read in its entirety in monasteries during the Great Fast. 150 and more Righteous Martyr Fathers of the Sacred Monastery of Pantocrator Daou Pentelis Terence and his Companions beheaded at Carthage Holy Father Theona, Archbishop of Thessolonica Gregory V, the Holy Martyr and Patriarch of Constantinople HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Fourth Mode 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. Apolytikion for Sun. of St. John Climacus in the Plagal Fourth Mode With the streams of thy tears, thou didst cultivate the barrenness of the desert; and by thy sighings from the depths,thou didst bear fruit a hundredfold in labours; and thou becamest a luminary, shining with miracles upon the world, O John our righteous Father. Intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!" WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Seest thou how He now proceeds to lay beforehand in them the foundation of His doctrine about fasting?... See, at any rate, how many blessings spring from them both. For he that is praying as he ought, and fasting, hath not many wants, and he that hath not many wants, cannot be covetous;...st. John Chrysostom, Homily 57 on Matthew 17,4,5. B#54, pp.355,356., 4th Century APRIL 17, 2016 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 9:11-14 GOSPEL READING Mark 10:32-45 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Makarios, Bishop of Corinth Agapetos of Rome Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt The memory of this Saint is celebrated on April 1, where her life is recorded. Since the end of the holy Forty Days is drawing nigh, it has been appointed for this day also, so that if we think it hard to practice a little abstinence forty days, we might be roused by the heroism of her who fasted in the wilderness forty-seven years; and also that the great loving-kindness of God, and His readiness to receive the repentant, might be demonstrated in very deed. Symeon the Holy Martyr and Bishop of Persia HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal First Mode Let us worship the Word, O ye faithful, praising Him that with the Father and the Spirit is cobeginningless God, Who was born of a pure Virgin that we all be saved; for He was pleased to mount the Cross in the flesh that He assumed, accepting thus to endure death. And by His glorious rising, He also willed to resurrect the dead. Apolytikion for Sun. of St. Mary of Egypt in the Plagal Fourth Mode In thee the image was preserved with exactness, O Mother; for taking up thy cross, thou didst follow Christ, and by thy deeds thou didst teach us to overlook the flesh, for it passeth away, but to attend to the soul since it is immortal. Wherefore, O righteous Mary, thy spirit rejoiceth with the Angels. Seasonal Kontakion in the Second Mode O Protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame, mediation unto the creator most constant: O despise not the voices of those (Continued on page 11)

4 The Cross+Roads Page 4 C HURCH REGISTRY / ANNOUNCEMENTS 40-DAY BLESSING: The infant son of Kostas & Anastasia Doulgerakis received his 40- day blessing in our Church, Sunday, March 27. May the blessings of our Church be with the newly-churched infant, his parents and his entire family. RECENTLY ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS; Our sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to our friends and fellow parishioners who have been ill and/or hospitalized recently: Steve Athas. Zoe Fotiou, Angelo Mageras and Matina Mimikos. PERASTIKA SAS!!!!!!! DEATHS: Peter Carter died on March 15, 2016; we offer our condolences to Margaret, his wife. May his memory be eternal. THANK YOU: My most heart-felt thanks to the Parish Council and to all my wonderful friends for the lovely reception they put together, March 6, in honor of my retirement. My work for my Church and my Community these many years has been a labor of love, and I will continue working for both my Church and my Community as long as I can in every capacity possible. All the accolades and kind words that were said on my behalf overwhelmed me and left me speechless. Again, my sincerest thanks to all. Tasia Savrides We are so blessed to have such a warm, caring and loving community. Your prayers, cards and telephone calls were such a comfort to us during this time. We are both feeling much better and are on the road to recovery. May this Lenten season be filled with peace and strength for all of us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Kali Sarakosti, John & Tessie Dakis T ASIA SAVRIDES RETIRES AFTER 40+ YEARS SERVICE ATTENDANCE March March March March March March YTD 16 Ave 142 YTD 15 Ave 155 REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts for the month of March. The hosts for April are: April 3: Rev./Pres. George Chioros, Rev. /Pres. Nicholas Despotides, Mrs. Aphrodite Christopoulos. April 10: M/M Tom Coghill, Maj/M Alex Constantine, M/M John Costulis, Ms. Ellie Costulis April 17: M/M John Dakis, M/M Bob Demson, M/M Joe Dennie April 24: Philoptochos Palm Sunday Luncheon (Continued from page 1) The parishioners of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church echo these remarks and wish Tasia a long and healthy retirement. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our Parish. "Well done good and faithful servant!" Koliva If you would like to purchase Koliva for memorials, you may contact: Helen George Anastasia Savrides Athena Savvas Cross+Roads CHURCH LIST Subscribe to the church list for monthly links to the Cross+Roads and important church announcements at: DEADLINE Please information no later than the 20th day of the month to Nick Vlattas nvlattas@hewv.com

5 The Cross+Roads Page 5 C HURCH, CLUB AND COMMUNITY NEWS PHOLOPTOCHOS: Ladies, our Easter Tsourekia baking will be Monday, & Tuesday April 11 & 12. Please, do make every effort to make yourselves available for help. We shall need everyone's help, and, as we have said and keep on saying our VA- SILOPITES & TSOUREKIA are our biggest fundraisers. So, let's all make a special effort to contribute both in time and talent to this project. Thanks, ladies. You always come through and we know you will, again. Our Palm Sunday Luncheon will be on Sunday, April 24. Our Social Committee is already at work planning a sumptuous meal for all of us. Please, mark this date on your calendar and plan to attend the luncheon. Not only you will help us, through your contribution, to help those in need, but also, you will enjoy a delicious meal and great fellowship with your friends and fellow parishioners. Our Act of Kindness project is attracting more participants, and we are most thankful for it. As you know, this Act of Kindness involves a visit every Monday of each month to Virginia Oncology where we provide a light lunch to patients receiving chemotherapy infusions there. Lunches consist of sandwiches, chips, cookies, etc. along with lots of love and good cheer for those patients. If you wish to become part of this most worthwhile project, please call Ellie Costulis, , and ask her how you can help. Our Literacy Outreach & USO/ Care Packages Committees both chaired by Kathy Dermanis are very active and hard at work collecting items (school supplies, cleaning items) and passing them on to area schools that need them. Kathy and her USO/Care Packages Committee are also busy finding out who among our people are deployed to our various military endeavors throughout the world and sending them packages filled with goodies and a whole lot of love from home. And, of course, they continue to support the USO that does so much for our military both here and abroad. Kathy, her committee members and the entire membership of Philoptochos thank you all for your continued support. Our obligations to the National for the month of April are: A contribution to the Sisterhood of Saint Basil Academy which provides for the physical needs of the children of Saint Basil Academy as well as graduation costs, awards and gifts; and a contribution to the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) which provides food, shelter and economic self sufficiency to those in need. Our April meeting will be April 4 at 6:30 pm in the Community Center. Hosting this meeting are Mdmes. Angela Gionis and Athena Savvas. PHILOPTOCHOS WISHES KALO PASCA TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AND FELLOW ORTHODOX. DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE The Daughters of Penelope will prepare on orders spanakopites, tyropites and tyropitakia for anyone who wishes to purchase such items. The cost for these items are: Spanokopita: $25.00 per pan. Tyropita: $20.00 per pan. Tyropitakia: $10.00 a dozen. If you wish to purchase any of these items, please contact Athena Markos, , c , Zoe Marcopoulos, c , or any member of the Daughters. Helen Micha is hard at work putting together the Easter Egg Hunt for our younger parishioners. The Hunt will be held on Easter Sunday, May 1, following the Agapi Services. The Daughters is once again participating in the International Children's Festival, sponsored by The Hampton Parks and Recreation. This will be the 15th year that the Daughters are participating in this event. It is a great opportunity to showcase and acquaint people with our rich cultural heritage and to promote the Daughters' involvement in Community projects. We hope that many of you will wish to participate and to bring your children so that not only they will enjoy a day of fun but they will also be exposed to a variety of cultures giving them a better understanding and tolerance of this, our world. This event will be held April 16, at Mill Point Park in Downtown Hampton, from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Helen Dennie, our Social Committee Chairperson, is planning a get-to-gather for us at the Paragon Theater in City Center where the movie My Big, Fat Greek Wedding, #2 is to be shown. On April 3, after a light lunch at the Theater's Cafeteria, we'll all go see the movie. Contact Helen for further details and plan to attend. Sisters, don't forget to keep bringing cleaning and grooming items to our meetings so that sister Kathy Matthews can pass them on to Shelters that need them. Our April meting will be Thursday, April 21, in the AHEPA FAMI- LY HOME, starting with dinner at 6:45pm. KALO PASCHA, everyone!!! SUNDAY SCHOOOL Lenten Service Project: The 3rd-5th grade Sunday School class will be collecting non -perishable, non-expired food items to donate to the Food- Bank. Collection boxes will be available in the classroom and the Narthex. Donations will be accepted until Palm Sunday 4/24/16. Please support our children as they live by example from Matthew 25: 35. Thank you! HELLENIC YOUTH DANCERS: The Hellenic Youth Dancers thanks everyone for their support and generosity at the luncheon on February 21, The Hellenic Youth Dancers are selling luminaires to be displayed around the church during Holy Week on Good Friday. The dance group will be selling them following church services each Sunday through Holy Week.

6 The Cross+Roads Page 6 R SAINTS CONSTANTINE AND HELEN On March 20, 2016 following church services, all gathered into the church hall where the Greek School presented a beautiful program, Greek Independence Day. Mrs. Paula Tofalli and her team have worked so hard with our children ensuring that they learn the Greek language (speaking, reading, and writing). They go beyond that and also teach our children the history of our heritage. Above is a collage of pictures taken at the program. Mrs. Tofalli also invited the Hellenic Youth Dancers, Elliniki Psihi and Ellinopoula, to perform as part of her program. Following the program, the GOYA served a lunch for all. Thank you to Mrs. Tofalli, the Greek School staff and children, the Hellenic Youth Dancers and directors (Diane Kokorelis Pearce and Helen Fotiadis Avramidis), the GOYA, and our parish for a wonderful afternoon together. Photographs and article courtesy of Paula Detweiler On Sunday, March 20th, Hayden Hendricks was awarded Boy Scouts' highest honor, the rank of Eagle Scout. One of the highlights of the ceremony was the reciting of the Eagle Scout Oath with fellow Eagle Scouts Tom Bowling (former Scoutmaster of Troop 218) and Father George Chioros. Our Religious Education teachers and students participate in the procession of the icons on the Sunday of Orthodoxy on March 20.

7 The Cross+Roads Page 7 C ENTURION DONOR PROFILE O RATORICAL FESTIVAL by Barry Hendricks Recently, Mr. James Woodbury, made a generous gift to the Centurion Campaign in memory of his beloved wife Victoria who fell asleep in the Lord on March 23rd, His gift was well above his previously pledged donation (which he continues to make regularly every month), and it also was a gift of stock made though his investment manager to our Morgan Stanley account established to receive these type of gifts. I had a conversation with Mr. Woodbury the other day and wanted to know more about what motivated him to choose the Centurion Campaign as a beneficiary of his gift. He shared with me that he gains tremendous satisfaction from donating to Orthodox charities, such as the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), but that he prefers supporting charities close to home. He recognizes that we have a responsibility to retire the debt on the hall renovation as soon as possible, but was even more impressed with our goal to have an emergency capital reserve fund. I asked him about the goal of the campaign to make a gift to the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas in New York City. He feels it is an admirable goal and one that we should support, but it wasn t the main determining factor in making the gift. It was that the larger percentage of the gift (90%) would stay local in our community. I also asked why he chose making a gift of stock. He told me it was much easier for him financially to make a donation from his investments (plus he liked the fact that we made it pretty convenient). Ever since the Centurion Campaign was announced, Mr. Woodbury has been a very inquisitive supporter. He was one of the first parishioners to make a pledge in support of the campaign, but has been very interested in how we are doing towards reaching our goals. He wants to see us succeed. Unfortunately, many of us never had the privilege to meet his wife Victoria. It was only after her passing that we learned about her amazing life. I still remember Mr. Woodbury s moving and loving tribute to her during the reception in honor of her 40-day memorial last year. At the end of our conversation, I once again thanked him for his gift and support in memory of his beloved Victoria. May her memory be eternal. Saint John Chrysostom Hayden Hendricks in the Senior Division and Lauren Holbrook and Christina Myers in the Junior Division participated in the Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical at our Parish on March 27. Pictured with Father George are the judges, Dimitrios Konstantinou, Howard Madeville, and Barbara France and timekeeper Hope Zambas. Thank you to chairman Nick Vrettos for organizing the event. The students move on to the district festival in Charlottesville in April. Name: Address: Centurion Campaign Commitment City: State: Zip: I / We wish to make a commitment to the Centurion Campaign in the amount of: $1,800 $1,350 $1,000 Other $ Please return to the Church Office or place in the collection tray during Liturgy. CAMPAIGN GOAL $126,500 by 9/1/2016: 1) Pay off our remaining financial obligations on the Sacalis Hall renovation; 2) Establish an emergency capital expense reserve; and 3) 10% of funds raised for parish donation to the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church and Shrine.

8 The Cross+Roads Page 8 O UR LENTEN JOURNEY PREPARING FOR THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD Great Lent is a time for selfexamination and self-denial a time for taking control of our lives and our bodies. The purpose of the fast is to give us a greater awareness of our dependence on God. It is a time to improve ourselves and our relationship with God. Lent is a time for greater works of mercy and charity for those less fortunate than us. It is a time for visitation of the sick and assistance to the poor, and generally a more joyful relationship with those who are close to us our family and friends. Most of all, Lent is a time of joy and a new beginning. We cleanse ourselves mind, body and soul through the physical and spiritual fast, keeping a Christian attitude in all that we do. All this is done to prepare us for the Great Feast of Pascha the Resurrection of Christ. May God bless you and guide you, and may you reach your Paschal destination with the joy of renewed faith in Christ. PRAYER Have no anxiety about anything, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding will keep your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ. -St. Paul s letter to the Philippians One key to a more fulfilling life is prayer. For Orthodox Christians, the aim of prayer is to enter into conversation with God. Prayer is sometimes referred to as dialogue with God. Often it is a waiting on God in silence. In the church it is defined as the lifting of the mind and heart to God, and also as walking in the presence of God. We turn our mind and thoughts toward Him. We mentally gaze at Him and speak with Him in reverence, fear, and hope. At times we speak to Him with words and at other times we stand in reverent silence, saying nothing, but being aware of His presence. In this dialogue with God we praise Him and thank Him. We ask Him for what we need. Our mind and our heart are opened to Him. Prayer is not only repeating words, it is trust in God that he hears and directs us in His Way involving spiritual growth and development. The Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian Read each week-day during Great Lent O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth, despair, lust of power, and idle talk. But give rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience, and love to Thy servant. Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own transgressions, and not to judge my brother, for blessed art Thou, unto ages of ages. Amen. Prayer to the Holy Spirit Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, present in all places and filling all things, the treasury of blessings and Giver of life: come and abide in us. Cleanse us from all impurity, and save our souls, O Gracious Lord. FASTING The fast for the forty days of Lent is indicated below, though many are not able to hold to the strict fast. We offer the following guidelines to be considered prayerfully with the guidance of your spiritual father and in consideration of any medical condition or dietary requirements. STRICT FAST No Meat, Fish, Milk, Dairy Products, Oil, or Oil Products PALM SUNDAY Fish, Oil & Wine permitted FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIA- TION/MARCH 25 TH March 25 th - all day: Fish, Oil & Wine Permitted Shellfish are permitted throughout Great Lent Resource: The Orthodox Daily Planner and Resource Guide published by the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries provides daily guidance in fasting, scripture, feast days and more. St. John Chrysostom on Fasting Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works. If you see a poor man, take pity on him. If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him. Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands and all the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice. Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin. Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful. Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip. Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism. For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and devour our brothers? May He who came to the world to save sinners strengthen us to complete the fast with humility, have mercy on us and save us. Jesus Instructions on Fasting "Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. BIBLE READING In private study, when a Christian profitably reads the Bible, receiving inspiration and strength from it, family members, friends, relatives and even acquaintances will inevitably notice the difference. Any person who comes into contact with such a Christian cannot but notice the growing peace, love and inner assurance - the spirit of Christ - in that Christian, and will frequently ask (if not ask, certainly think) what gives that person such strength and radiance. God will provide many opportunities to the growing Christian for sharing with others his or her experience with the Bible. What better witness for the truth of the Christian faith than a solid Christian life nour-

9 The Cross+Roads Page 9 ished by Holy Scripture and radiating true Christian love at home, at Church and at work? The Christian's own life becomes a kind of gospel, a living Bible, in which other people observe, read and experience the truths of God in action. From Bread for Life, by Father Theodore Stylianopoulos Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education Suggestions for family Bible reading: Set aside a regular time for daily reading preferably in the evening at the supper table when the whole family is together. When the children are young, mom or dad can do the reading. When the children grow older, they may share in the reading. Reading to children is one of life's greatest joys. Children treasure it. Don't read too much or too fast. One chapter a day is sufficient. Let what you read sink in slowly. If the children are young, read from a Bible story book-one that has pictures which you can show the children. Start with the biographies of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Read with the faith and the expectation that God will really and truly speak to you through what you read. Don't worry about the passages you do not understand. Concentrate on what you do understand. The more you read, the more you will understand. One passage explains another. Each day memorize at least one verse that grips you. Say it out loud as a family three or four times. Encourage your children to fall asleep with this verse on their lips. Get a translation your children understand. As you read, try to have an icon of Jesus before you if you are reading the Gospels; one of St. Paul if you are reading his epistles, etc. This will help you realize who it is who is speaking to you. from Making God Real in the Orthodox Home REPENTANCE & CONFESSION Repentance has its roots in the apostles. In the Book of Acts the Apostle Peter says, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:37-38) When we fall away from God, we have removed ourselves from His communion with Him and with other Christians. We have excommunicated ourselves. To re -enter communion with God is the on-going activity of all Christians. We fall away daily in some way or another. No one is exempt. Often, when children play in competitive games, one will call out that s a do over! Haven t we all wished for that chance to undo the past and start over? Repentance offers us this new beginning. We are telling God that we have changed our mind about our past direction and want to be back in communion with him. The Greek work for repentance, metanoia, implies a very deep change in the way we see ourselves, our world, and our relationship to God. To change our mind in repentance is the starting point in our Lenten journey. We leave behind regret as we move toward hope. Repentance is not a single action but an attitude, a frame of mind. Think back over your life of things which you regret having said or done hurtful, inconsiderate, selfish, deceitful. Think also of those things which you have done which may not have directly affected others, but which you know to be wrong according to the teachings of the Church. Bring them to mind as if they were occurring right now. Think of how it would have been if you had acted differently. Take this regret and turn it into repentance. Acknowledge that you have offended another person or the Church, and in doing so you have offended God. If we are to be forgiven by God, He requires of us that we also forgive one another. For many of us, this is the most difficult aspect of repentance and confession. Yet we say it each time we pray the Lord s prayer, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Just as God s love for us is personal, so must ours be for Him. As the Christian grows from child to adult, his or her personal response to God becomes crucial. This personal response is the act of confession. HOLY COMMUNION The Sacrament of Holy Communion the Eucharist which literally means "Thanksgiving," is the Mystery whereby the bread and wine of offering are changed, actually, not symbolically, into the very Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. The Eucharist is at the very center of the Church's life, and from it flows the prayer of believers in a sacrifice of entreaty for the peace of the world, for all those who ask for help, and for all men and women '"The Eucharist unites us in the most intimate fashion with the Lord; it nourishes our soul and body, and aids our strengthening, increase, and growth in spiritual life. According to the promise of the Gospel, He that eats this bread will live forever. (The Gospel of John 6:58) The cup which holds the wine that becomes the blood of Christ is the chalice, the cup of salvation. When we kneel during the liturgy, we pray with the priest that God the Holy Spirit may change the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus. This means that when we receive Holy Communion, Jesus comes to live in us. How do we prepare to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus? We pray. We should have love in our hearts for all people. We should ask forgiveness from God and from our parents, brothers, and sisters, and from anyone we may have hurt. When we come before the priest for Communion, we make the sign of the cross, tell the priest our baptismal name, hold the Communion cloth under our chin, and open our mouth wide. After receiving, we wipe our lips with the Communion cloth, make the sign of the cross, and hand the Communion cloth to the person next to us. Once we have received Communion, we must remember that we have become one with Christ and with all those who received Communion with us. Christ now lives in all of us. We are all living icons of Jesus. It is by loving one another that we love Jesus. After receiving Communion our bodies become holy chalices. God lives in us. Jesus wants to use our hands, which have now become His hands, to help those in need. When we receive Communion, we become members of Christ's Body, the Church. This means that Jesus has no eyes but our eyes, no feet but our feet to do His work in the world today. What kind, thoughtful act will you do for Jesus today? From Let s Take a Walk Through Our Orthodox Church by Fr. Anthony M. Coniaris / Light & Life Publishing

10 The Cross+Roads Page 10 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 15, 2016 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: The meeting convened at 1905 with an opening prayer by Father George. The following items were discussed: Present: Father George Chioros, Bob Demson, Gus Fotiadis, Barry Hendricks, Barbara France, Joanna Vallas, Zena Mageras, Howard Mandeville, Peter Johns Prior to our opening prayer, Father George ask Howard Mandeville to lead and summarize the religious education topic. Absent: Bobby Garofalis, Jason Holbrook, Tom Grepiotis Guests/Visitors: None II: Minutes: Zena Mageras made a motion to approve the 25 January 2016 meeting minutes; seconded by Barbara France, passed unanimously III: Correspondence: 12/7/15 - Donation Receipt dated 7 December 2015 from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America acknowledging receipt for $ for the Saint Nicholas Shrine Building Fund. From special collection on 6 December /12/16 - Change in Terms Agreement from Xenith Bank dated 12 February 2016 extending the renovation line of credit of $100,000 Principal for another year to 1 March 2017 (existing principal balance $66, and undisbursed funds $33,459.76) 12/31/15 - New Year s Eve Dance Net Income Statement reporting Net Income of $4, Submitted by Bobby Garofalis, John Dermanis and Anastasia Theodorogiannis. 2/15/16 FY 2015 Audit Committee Report for year ending December 31, 2015 submitted by Alvin Garrison, Elaine Jansen and Nick Matthews. 2/15/16 - Updated Signatory s to Payroll Account signed at EV Bank and witnessed and submitted to the Parish Council requiring two signatures; Joanna Vallas, Treasurer and Zoie Mageras, Asst Treasurer, in compliance with the Audit Committee recommendations for check writing on all church accounts. 2/15/16 - The church Safe Deposit Box audited Inventory List submitted 12/31/15 Income Statement and Comparative Balance Sheet for FY 2015 ending December 31, IV: Treasurer s Report: Reviewed Year ending 31 December 2015 Income Statement. For the upcoming General Assembly, request is to use the Audit Committee approved Income Statement and Summary Statement generated from the new Accounting system. V: Visitor s Comments: No visitors present VI: Committee Reports: Stewardship Ministry: Seeking a volunteer to lead the Stewardship Ministry 82 pledged members for $102,041 Youth Report: GOYA Spring Retreat April Grade Sunday School Father met with Oratorical Festival Coordinator, Nick Vretos, 15 Feb Oratorical Festival TBD when District Festival location is confirmed. Basketball Practice is Sunday after church Camp Good Shephard Virginia July 2016 Youth have volunteered as councilors Review - Peter and Father will review the responsibilities for Youth Coordinator House: Rentals 19 March 2016 Irish Dancers 24th March 2016: Boys and Girls Club Dinner 26 March 2016 Bake Sale Festival Committee held its first meeting 10 Feb Next meeting schedule for 16 March 6:30 PM Maintenance Committee Tommy Gardner presented an estimate of ~2K to recharge and service the A/C Heating units for the Church being serviced and re-charged week of 15 Feb 2016 Centurion Campaign To date, received 24 pledges totaling $31,950 LOC payment increased to $1500 / month for LOC loan repayment Other Committees Nothing to report VII: Priest s and Youth Report 11th February 2016: The VA Council of Churches hosted their annual winter meeting at Sts. Constantine and Helen Thanks to all volunteers who made the event successful including Joanna Vallas, Barbara France, Tessie Dakis, Anna Mageras and Louis and Ronnie 14 Feb 2016 Philoptochos held Membership tea and luncheon was hosted and 6 new members signed up General Assembly next Sunday 21 Feb Hellenic Youth Dancers providing meal Great and Holy Lent begins 14 March 2016 Services will be every Monday, Wednesday and Friday Saturday of Souls March 5, 12, 19, Feb 2016 AHEPA Meatball Luncheon and 12 March 2016 Casino Night 6 March 2016 is Reception for Tessie Speedy recovery offered to Howard Mandeville and Joanna Vallas after their surgeries VIII: Unfinished Business: Bookkeeper / Office Manager Update New accounting system will provide more detail. Previewed FY 2016 Budget Breakdown by Month Report that will be presented to the General Assembly. Motion to accept for presentation to GA made by Peter Johns and seconded by Zena Mageras and unanimously approved. Copies will be made in the office and available for parishioner review prior to GA. Internet Ministries report still pending from Jason Holbrook Review using Weekly Bulletin by using Bulletin Builder application from the Archdiocese Retirement Reception for Tessie being planned. John Dermanis and Zena Mageras are planning and will finalize. IX: New Business: New computer and accounting software brought to the office by Kurt Detweiller. General Assembly Agenda reviewed and approved. Request for suggestion for GA Chairman be made. TBD Audit completed by Audit Committee. Refer to Letter dated 15 Feb Bookstore provided 2015 proceeds donation of $1,200 check 14 Feb Russian School leaves heat on too high and leaves skylight window open. Will be addressed. Round Table No new topics X: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at Next meeting 21 March XI: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Robert V Demson Secretary T HROUGH THE BIBLE A Z Whoever receives you receives Me Matthew 10:40 Whole body full of light when your eye is bright Luke 11:34 Whosoever receiveth a child in Jesus Name receiveth Jesus Luke 9:48 Whosoever shall believeth in Him shall not perish but have eternal life John 3:15 Widows fix your hope on God and continue in prayer day and night 1 Timothy 5:5 Wife of excellence is the crown of her husband Proverbs 12:4 Wife of excellence is worth far more than jewels Proverbs 31:10 Will be in paradise with Jesus Luke 23:43 Will not be found naked for you will be clothed with a heavenly dwelling 2 Cor. 5:2,3 Will of God is to do right and you may silence the ignorance of foolish men 1 Peter 2:15

11 The Cross+Roads A PRIL SUNDAYS (Continued from page 3) who have sinned; but be quick, O good one, to come unto our aid, who in faith cry unto thee: Hasten to intercession and speed thou to make supplication, O thou who dost ever protect, O Theotokos, them that honor thee. WISDOM OF FATHERS But let no man be troubled at the apostles being in such an imperfect state. For not yet was the cross accomplished, not yet the grace of the Spirit given. But if thou wouldest learn their virtue, notice them after these things, and thou wilt see them superior to every passion. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 65 on Matthew 20, 2,3,4,6. B#54, pp ,403., 4th Century APRIL 24, 2016 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians 4:4-9 GOSPEL READING John 12:1-18 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Palm Sunday On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city. When the multitude there heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him. Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate today. The branches of the palm trees symbolize Christ's victory over the devil and death. The word Hosanna means "Save, I pray," or "Save, now." The foal of an ass, and Jesus' sitting thereon, and the fact that this animal was untamed and considered unclean according to the Law, signified the former uncleanness and wildness of the nations, and their subjection thereafter to the holy Law of the Gospel. Elizabeth the Wonderworker Savvas the General of Rome HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the First Mode In confirming the common Resurrection, O Christ God, Thou didst raise up Lazarus from the dead before Thy Passion. Wherefore, we also, like the children, bearing the symbols of victory, cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the Fourth Mode As by baptism we were buried with Thee, O Christ our God, so by Thy Resurrection we were deemed worthy of immortal life; and praising Thee, we cry: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Second Mode In Heaven, He is seated upon a Throne and on earth He rides upon a foal. O Christ our God, accept the praise of the Angels and the hymn of the Children who cry out to You, "Blessed are You who comes to recall Adam." WISDOM OF FATHERS But observe the wisdom of the Evangelist, how he is not ashamed to parade their former ignorance. That it was written they knew, that it was written of Him they knew not. For it would have offended them if He being a King were about to suffer such things, and be so betrayed. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 66 on John 12, 2. 4th Century 1 Friday 5:30pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00pm 3rd Salutations 3 Sunday Sunday of the Holy Cross 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 4 Monday 10:30am Golden Hearts 6:00pm Compline 5 Tuesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 6 Wednesday 6:00pm Presanctified Liturgy 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 7:15pm Choir 7 Thursday 6:30pm HWPS 8 Friday 5:30pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00pm 4th Salutations 10 Sunday Sunday of St. John Climacus 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 11 Monday 6:00pm Compline 12 Tuesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 13 Wednesday 6:00pm Presanctified Liturgy 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 7:15pm Choir 15 Friday 6:00pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00pm Akathist April 2016 Page 11 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sunday Saint Mary of Egypt 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 18 Monday 10:30am Golden Hearts 6:00pm Compline 7:00pm Parish Council 19 Tuesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 20 Wednesday 6:00pm Presanctified Liturgy 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 7:15pm Choir 23 Saturday Lazarus Saturday 9:00am Teaching Divine Liturgy 24 Sunday Palm Sunday 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 7:00pm Nymphios 25 Holy Monday 7:00pm Nymphios 26 Holy Tuesday 7:00pm Nymphios 27 Holy Wednesday 10:00am Presantified Liturgy 7:00pm Holy Unction 28 Holy Thursday 7:00AM Vesperal Liturgy 7:00PM 12 Gospels 29 Holy Friday 9:00am Royal Hours 3:00pm Apokathelosis 7:00pm Lamentations Service 30 Holy Saturday 8:00AM Divine Liturgy 11:00PM Resurrection 1 May - PASCHA 11:00am Agape Vespers

12 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Return Address Requested Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 50 Newport News Virginia C OME WORSHIP THE GLORY OF GOD Sunday Services 8:15 a.m. Matins 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy 11:15 a.m. Religious Education (Sep-May) 11:30 a.m. Christian Fellowship (Hellenic Center) Phone (757) Fax (757) Mission Statement The mission of Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, Virginia is to keep, practice, and proclaim the Orthodox Christian Faith. The work and ministry of our Parish will include proclaiming the Gospel, sanctifying the faithful through God's grace in worship, the Divine Liturgy and the Sacraments, and enhancing their spiritual life. We will fulfill the great commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by inviting others into the Church through Baptism and/or Chrismation, educating them in the Orthodox Faith through the establishment of programs, schools and philanthropic activities, and implementing Christian ministries.