T HE CROSS+ROADS F ROM FATHER GEORGE S WEET 16

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1 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Volume February 2016 Issue T HE CROSS+ROADS INSIDE THIS ISSUE: February Sundays 2-3, 7 Acolyte & Epistle Readers Through the Bible A Z Registry / Announcements Church, Club & Community News , 8 SCH 6 Centurion Campaign 7 PC Minutes 9-11 Calendar 11 Hi-Lites Sunday of Parable of the Talents February 7 Sunday of Canaanite Woman February 14 Triodion Begins, Sunday of The Publican and The Pharisee February 21 Sunday of the Prodigal Son February 28 F ROM FATHER GEORGE S WEET 16 The arrival of a new year brings great opportunities. Just the mere fact that we are alive demonstrates that we have received the gift of another 365 days in which to do the work of the Lord. Each one of us has been given by the Lord the vision to combat the darkness that exists. With this vision we must execute patience especially when darkness follows. God will bring the necessary vision into our lives if we will wait on His timing. We live in a period of time when everything should be done quickly. As a society we have lost our ability to show and practice patience. As parents are we not patient with our children? Have we not come to the realization that our children, in their growing process needed time to mature both physically and theologically? My mentor, Father Byron Papanikolaou of Blessed memory, had on his desk a nameplate that simply said IPOMONI translated patience. Our Parish of Saints Constantine and Helen in Palos Hills, Illinois was a large Parish and he, Father Byron served the Parish including his years of retirement for 55 years. He saw a great deal of people in that period of time and his answer to their issues was simply IPOMONI. It is quite difficult to have patience; it is even more difficult when we shy away from making the effort has seen one month go by, what did we do in January to make ourselves better, what did we do to make our Church better, and what do we plan to do in the next eleven months? These are just three questions to ponder, there are more. Saint Paul writes in His first letter to the Corinthians (3:11) For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Saint Paul saw it necessary in his letter to the good people of Corinth that the building up that was occurring at that time was also promoting division amongst the people. Paul was not looking for any kind of loyalty from the people, what he, Saint Paul was teaching and preaching was loyalty to Christ as the foundation for healthy Christian living. Let us build upon the firm foundation that was laid in the formation of our faith in the first century and what was started in Newport News in F EBRUARY 21: TRIODION BEGINS PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE The Pharisees were an ancient and outstanding sect among the Jews known for their diligent observance of the outward matters of the Law. Although, according to the word of our Lord, they "did all their works to be seen of men" (Matt. 23:5), and were hypocrites (ibid. 23: 13, 14, 15, etc.), because of the apparent holiness of their lives they were thought by all to be righteous, and separate from others, which is what the name Pharisee means. On the other hand, Publicans, collectors of the royal taxes, committed many injustices and extortions for filthy lucre's sake, and all held them to be sinners and unjust. It was therefore according to common opinion that the Lord Jesus in His parable signified a virtuous person by a Pharisee, and a sinner by a Publican, to teach His disciples the harm of pride and the profit of humblemindedness. Since the chief weapon for virtue is humility, and the greatest hindrance to it is pride, the divine Fathers have set these three weeks before the Fortyday Fast as a preparation for the spiritual struggles of virtue. This first of Triodion week they have called Harbinger, since it declares that the Fast is approaching; and they set humility as the foundation for all our spiritual labors by appointing that the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee be read, even before the Fast begins, to teach, through the vaunting of the Pharisee, that the foul smoke of self-esteem and the stench of boasting drives away the grace of the Spirit, strips man of all his virtue, and casts him into the pits of Hades; and, through the repentance and contrite prayer of the Publican, that humility confers upon the sinner forgiveness of all his wicked deeds and raises him up to the greatest heights. (Source:

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, Vice President Joanna Vallas, Treasurer Zena Mageras, Assistant Treasurer Robert Demson, Secretary Konstantinos Fotiadis Dr. Bobby Garofalis Jason Holbrook Peter Johns Howard Mandeville Chanters John Siokis Harry Fotiou Alex Constantine Archdiocese on the web F EBRUARY 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. FEBRUARY 7 EPISTLE READING 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 GOSPEL READING Matthew 25:14-30 The Lord said this parable: "A man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents Philoptochos Trish Demson, President Religious Education Viola Nicholls Allen, Director Greek School Matina Mimikos, Paula Tofalli, Aphrodite Christopoulos Youth Ministry Stephanie Peri and Kent Paumier, Advisors Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Helen Micha, Director more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.' But his master answered him, 'You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was ACOLYTES FEBRUARY 14 Team A - Dominic Peri Kostas Polyzos, Jorgie Polyzos, James St. Martin, Yianni Tsimplekis, Dean Peri FEBRUARY 21 Team B - Christian Detweiler Hayden Hendricks, Michael Christou, Anthony Capobianco, Cris Campbell, Ethan Detweiler FEBRUARY 7 & 28 Team C - Joseph Dennie Georgios Haramis, Christos Konstantinou, Christopher Myers, Soterios Tofalli, Kyprianos Tofalli EPISTLE READERS February 7: Christina Constantine February 14: GOYA February 21: Helen George February 28: Howard Mandeville 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 Chris Fotiou, 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 my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth." As he said these things he cried out: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED 16th Sunday of Matthew Parthenius, Bishop of Lampsacus Luke of Mount Stirion Theopemptos the Martyr & his Companions Afterfeast of the Presentation of Our Lord and Savior in the Temple 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 the dead hath He become. From the belly of Hades hath He delivered us, and hath granted great mercy to the world. Apolytikion for Afterfeast of the Presentation in the First Mode Rejoice, thou who art full of grace, O Virgin Theotokos, for from thee hath risen the Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God, enlightening those in darkness. Rejoice, thou also, O righteous Elder, as thou receivest in thine arms the Redeemer of our souls, Who also granteth unto us the Resurrection. WISDOM OF THE FATHERS There is an old saying: 'Excesses meet.' Too much fasting and too much eating come to the same end. Keeping too long a vigil brings the same disastrous cost as... sluggishness... Too much self-denial brings weakness and induces the same condition as carelessness. Often I have seen men who would not be snared by gluttony fall, nevertheless, through immoderate fasting and tumble in weakness into the very urge which they had overcome. Unmeasured vigils and foolish denial of rest overcame those whom sleep could not overcome. Therefore, 'fortified to right and to left in the armor of justice,' as the apostle says (2 Cor. 6:7), life must be lived with due measure and, with discernment for a guide, the road must be traveled between the two kinds of excess so that in the end we may not allow ourselves to be diverted from the pathway of restraint which has been laid down for us nor fall through dangerous carelessness into the urgings of gluttony and selfindulgence. St. John Cassian, Conferences, Conference Two: On Discernment no. 16; Paulist Press pg. 76, 5th century FEBRUARY 14 EPISTLE READING 2 Corinthians 6:16-18; 7:1 GOSPEL READING Matthew 15:21-28 At that time, Jesus went to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon." But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, "Send her away, for she is crying after us." He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." And he answered, "It is not fair to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table." Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly. SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Nicholas the New Martyr of Corinth Sunday of the Canaanite Cyril, Equal-to-the-Apostles & Teacher of the Slavs Holy Father Auxentius of the Mountain Eusebius the Righteous of Syria 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. WISDOM OF THE FATHERS She had a great perfection of faith. She had no uncertainty about His divine majesty. She had no small measure of the virtue of patience. Yet the pitying Physician of the pitiful disdained her petitions. He kept her waiting for answer in order to demonstrate to us the perseverence of this woman that we can always imitate. She had the characteristics of constancy and humility. She willingly embraced the indignity she received, and even confirmed the Lord`s statement. This woman rightly signifies the faith and devotion of the Church gathered from the nations. Saint Bede, Hom. I. 22, In Lent, Homilies on the Gospels, Bk. One, 216, 217. FEBRUARY 21 EPISTLE READING 2 Timothy 3:10-15 GOSPEL READING Luke 18:10-14 The Lord said this parable, "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and (Continued on page 7) T HROUGH THE BIBLE A Z Wash Jesus feet with your tears Luke 7:44 Wash one another s feet John 13:14 Washed and cleansed from your iniquities - Psalm 51:2 Watch and pray for ye know not when the Master of the house cometh Mark 13:33,35 Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation, the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak Matt 26:41 Watch and pray that you may be counted worthy to escape and stand before the Son of Man Luke 21:36 Watch over your heart with all diligence for the springs of life flow from it Proverbs 4:23 Watchman Isaiah 52:8 Ways of the Lord are a stronghold to the upright Proverbs 10:29 Weapons of your warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses 2 Cor 10:4 What can mere man do to you when you put your trust in the Lord and are not afraid? - Psalm 56:4 Whatever concerns you will be accomplished by the Lord Psalm 138:8

4 The Cross+Roads Page 4 C HURCH REGISTRY / ANNOUNCEMENTS BIRTH: Our sincere congratulations to Marino John and Athena Kokolis on the birth of their son, November 30. Maternal grandparents: Elias & Zoe Doulgerakis and paternal grandparents John & Popi Kokolis. NA SAS ZISI!!!!! WEDDING: Our sincere congratulations and best wishes to Sophia Becouvarakis & Anthony Waltz whose wedding was solemnized in our Church, December 5 Panagiotes & Zoe Bobotsiares served as the koumbari. NA ZISETE!!!!!! DEATH: Our sincere condolences to the family of John & Popi Kokolis on the death of their son Elias Kokolis who died on January 22,. The funeral was held at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church on January 29. May his memory be eternal!!! RECENTLY ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS: We continue to pray for a speedy and quick recovery for our friends and fellow parishioners who have been ill and/or hospitalized recently: Irene Christou, Kaliopi Deligan, Barbara France, Helen George, Howard Mandeville, Charita Stavrou, Panayiota Tofalli and Vasilios Zisoppoulos. PERASTIKA SAS!!! SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT; We are in the process of closing our 2015 Christmas Card Account. There is a number of our parishioners whose names are on the Christmas Card but who have not as yet paid for it. PLEASE, check your records and if you find that you have not as yet paid the $30.00 for the card, do so as soon as possible. If you do not wish to continue being included on this card, please call us and let us know. Also, if you have included your payment for the card in your Stewardship obligation, again, do let us know. Your immediate attention to this matter will be greatly appreciated. THANK YOU. ORATORICAL FESTIVAL Please be on the lookout for upcoming announcements on our the Saint John Chrisostosom Oratorical Festival for our Parish which includes a Junior Division for grades 7-9 and Senior Division for grades This is an excellent program for the youth of our parish to participate to express their faith and gain experience in public speaking. Please contact Father George or Nick Vrettos should you have any questions. STEWARDSHIP; Ministry Leader Needed. Please see Father George or Parish Council President Barry Hendricks to volunteer for this important ministry. S YLVIA MATTHEWS HONORED BY GOLDEN HEARTS ATTENDANCE November December December December December January January January January January January 15 Ave 148 YTD 15 Ave 146 YTD 14 Ave 154 REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts for the months of December and January. The hosts for February are: February 7: M/M Andy Call, Mr. Pete Kilopoulos, M/M Charles Campbell, M/M John Campbell February 13: Philoptochos Membership Tea February 21: General Assembly February 28: AHEPA Spaghetti Dinner On January 25th at the Golden Hearts meeting, Sylvia Matthews celebrated a luncheon to honor her 92nd birthday hosted Nick and Kathy Matthews. After 75 years as a resident of Newport News and a member of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, Sylvia is starting a new chapter in her life by moving to Richmond as an independent resident at the Masonic Home of VA. Visits, mail and phone calls would be greatly appreciated. Her contact information is: Masonic Home of Virginia, 500 Masonic Lane, Unit 74, Henrico, VA 23223, (804) Sylvia looks forward to monthly visits to Newport News to attend Church and Golden Hearts meetings. Please keep Sylvia in your thoughts and prayers as her new chapter in life unfolds. 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 PHILOPTOCHOS HAPPY 2016, EVERYONE! We thank all our hardworking members for giving so much of their time and talent during this past Holiday Season. Our VA- SILOPITES project was a huge success as was our VALILOPITA LUNCHEON, the proceeds of which were earmarked for Saint Basil's Academy. Again, many thanks to everyone. Also our sincere thanks to Athena Savvas, another dedicated Philoptochos member, who chaired and worked very hard selling tickets for our New Year's Lira Raffle will find us continuing with our efforts top help those who need our help. Therefore, in that spirit of helping and giving, we continue to do our AOK by visiting the patients receiving chemotherapy at Virginia Oncology and bringing them a light lunch of sandwiches, chips, cookies, etc. every Monday. Once more we ask those in Philoptochos as well as in our Church Community who have yet to participate in this very worthwhile project to consider doing so. Please, call Ellie Costulis, , and find out how you can help. Also, our USO/Care Package Committee headed by Kathy Dermanis and assisted by Helen George continue to seek out members of our Orthodox Community, as well as the Community at large who are deployed at the various military endeavors throughout the world and send them packages and cheerful reminders of home and family. Our Literacy Outreach Committee is also continuing with their collection of school items and cleaning supplies and giving them to schools in our area which are in need of these items and whose budgets do not cover them. Please, help us help those in need of whatever nature, and the best way to do that is to become a member of Philoptochos. On Sunday, February 14, following Church Services, Philoptochos will host a Membership Tea, giving everyone the opportunity to acquaint themselves with our Society and its work and to extend a special invitation to all in our Community to join us. Our dues are only $25.00 a year. Please, come and see what you can do by joining us. We're looking forward to welcoming you into our Saint Helen Chapter of the Philoptochos. Our obligations to the National for the month of February are: A contribution to the Autism Assistance and Fund which helps to heighten awareness of autism with assistance and support; also, a contribution to the Saint Photios Shrine which assists in preserving this Shrine. Our February meeting will be Monday, February 1, beginning at 6:30 pm with refreshments in the Community Center. Hosting this meeting are Loula Maurakis and Christine Mignogna. SEE YOU ALL THERE!!! ARCHIMEDES SCHOLARSHIP Applications are now being accepted for the Next Generation Initiative s Archimedes Award Scholarship, offered to outstanding high school seniors of Hellenic heritage intending to pursue studies in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) related fields at a university in the United States. To be considered for a scholarship, please apply by March 25, For more information, and to apply online, please go to DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE Each year, at the Supreme AHEPA Convention, the DOP National Headquarters identifies our national obligations for the year. For 2016 our obligations include three mandatory and three voluntary projects. In past issues of the Cross+Roads, we indicated the first mandatory obligation - Domestic Family Violence Center: Penelope House, Mobile, AL and the first voluntary obligation - The Daughters of Penelope Foundation, Inc. Our second mandatory obligation for the year is the Domestic Family Violence Center: Penelope Place, Brocton, MA which is a collaboration between the Daughters of Penelope and Health Imperatives, a 24/7 emergency residence in the City of Brocton, MA for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Residents live at Penelope Place for an average of 90 days. During that time Penelope's Place staff provides a safe place for healing from the trauma of domestic violence. Each resident is assigned to a primary staff person who works with the resident and her family to develop goals to achieve self-sufficiency upon leaving Penelope Place. Services provided include counseling, housing, legal and medical advocacy, life skills, and job coaching. In addition, children receive services from a specialized child therapist. Penelope Place can accommodate up to five families at any time. The second voluntary project identified for this year is Melissa's Orphanage for Girls, which was established in 1921, and accommodates 28 girls aged years old who have been removed from their families following a court order due to instances of maltreatment, abuse or abandonment. The goal of the Orphanage is to substitute as well as possible the care and nurture that would have been provided with a healthy family environment. Sisters, please remember to be bringing to our meetings grooming items which sister Kathy Matthews takes to local shelters that are in need of them. We remind our members that dues are payable now. Annual dues for the DOP are $38.00 a year. Our February meeting will be on Thursday, February 25, at the AHEPA Family Home, starting at 6:45 pm with dinner. HELLENIC WOMAN S PENELOPE SOCIETY The February meeting of the Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society (HWPS) will be held on Thursday, February 4 th, 2016 at 6:00 PM at the Hellenic Center. Stephanie Kailos will be the hostess. Our 17 th Annual Dinner Theater has been rescheduled for either September 24 th or October 1 st. Details will be discussed at the meeting. On Saturday, March 26 th we will be having our ANNUAL SPRING BAKE SALE at the Hellenic Center. Pastry preparation will take place on Monday, March 21 st (baklava and kourabiethes); Wednesday, March 23 rd (finikia and koulourakia); and Thursday, March 24 th (finikia dipping). THE SALE OF PAVERS (ENGRAVED BRICKS AROUND THE BIBLICAL GARDEN FOUN- TAIN) IS NOW GOING ON. ANY PARISHIONERS WHO ARE INTER- ESTED IN PURCHASING A PAVER (S) TO HONOR OR MEMORIALIZE A LOVED ONE MAY CONTACT MAGGIE THOMPSON ( ) OR MARIKA ANTHONY ( ) TO PLACE AN ORDER. On January 20 th, our long-time member and former president Katie Orphanidys celebrated her 93 rd birthday surrounded by family and close friends. Katie, we love you and wish you many happy returns of the day. AHEPA SUPEBOWL PARTY Join the AHEPA Family at our annual Super Bowl Viewing Party on Sunday February 7, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. Come for BBQ, Slaw and Snacks, fellowship, card games and enjoy the game on our on our NEW 58 inch Flat Screen TV! $5.00 Donation. Drinks Available. THE ANASTASIOS L. DANIEL SCHOLARSHIP The Parish Council will one again administer an annual scholarship established by the Estate of beloved parishioner Anastasios 'Danny' L. Daniel. We welcome graduating high school seniors of the Orthodox Faith to apply by picking up an application in the Church office. Additional eligibility information and requirements as outlined by the estate will accompany the application. Completed applications must be returned to the Church postmarked by April 29, 2016.

6 The Cross+Roads Page 6 R S AINTS CONSTANTINE AND HELEN Thank you to President Trish Demson pictured with Father George and the Philoptochos Society who hosted the Vasilopita luncheon on January 10. Entertainment was provided by Biljana Soldo, accompanied by Jim Bostaph. Representatives of the Parish organizations and clubs were recognized and are pictured above. Thank you very much to everyone who contributed to the 3rd-5th grade Sunday School class efforts of collecting donations for the SPCA. They collected sheets, towels, blankets and food. This project was chosen by the children as an example of how they can care for others in God's world. The SPCA's outreach coordinator came to pick up the donations on 1/17/16 and brought some special friends to show the children where the donations go. Thank you for supporting our class! - Ms. Aphrodite & Miss Elizabeth W REATHS & POINSETTIAS IN HONOR / MEMORY Wreaths on front doors given by: Michael Kokorelis in memory of Suzanne Kokorelis Poinsettias given by: The Anas Families of Newport News & Portsmouth: In Memory of Theodore & Helen Anas; Chester & Alice Reynolds Nick & Dottie Andre: In Honor of Andre & Varlas Family Leroy & Joanna Bossetti: In Memory of Elias & Olga Deliyannis / Lois Bossetti, Father; Debra Bossetti, Sister Phoebe Campbell: In Memory of Aikatepivns & Theogovous Pouggn Sammy & Kiki Canovos: In memory of Loved Ones Father George, Presvytera Flora & Constantine Chioros: In Honor of Constantine & Theodora Chioros & Rev. Nicholas & Presvytera Mosha Despotides Bob & Trish Vlassopoulos Demson: In Honor of Stathis & Patricia Demson, Jerome and Michelle Beaudry The Dermanis Family: In Memory of George & Anna Gasparis Faye Evans: In Honor of Dorothy & Steve Andrews John & Barbara France: In Memory of Paul E. France, Gary L. France, John N. Nemechek, Maria M. Nemechek Alexa Garrison: In Memory of Andronicos & Ron; Alex & Andra; George & Victoria Alexa & Alvin Garrison: In Honor of the Garrison Family Mary Graham: Thank Offering for Fulmore Family The Grepiotis Family: Tom, Libby, Thomas, Matthew, Maxine: In Memory of Arthur D. Grepiotis & John A. Grepiotis Jesse & Evangelia Hanline Roger & Dina Headrick: Thank Offering for Family & Health and Many Blessings The Hendricks Family: In Memory of our Parents who have entered into rest Elaine & Chris Jansen: In Memory of Phoebus Karageagis & Sophie Kiklis The Bill Kaoudis Family: In Memory of Bill J. Kaoudis John Karatsikis: Thank Offering for the Karatsikis Family Anna & Zena Mageras: Given in Health of Anna & Zena Mageras Sylvia Marcin: In Memory of John, Thomas & Christine & all loved ones gone before us Matina Mimikos: In Memory of John Mimikos Kent & Georgene Paumier: In Memory and in Honor of Lambros & Paumier Families John Pawluk: Thank Offering to adorn our beloved Church Pete & Dianne Sun: In Honor of the Sun Family Angelo & Nia Theodorogiannis: In Memory of Athanasios & Anastasia Kokinos & Konstantinos & Zoe Theodorogiannis Joanna Vallas: In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Theo Vallas Barb & Nick Vlattas: In Honor of Pat & Wilbur Burgin; Emmanuel & Ann Vlattas John Williams: Thank Offering for Sylvia Marcin James Woodbury: In Memory of Victoria Woodbury Andy & Tessie Baker: Memory of Nick & Virginia Fournarakis; Theodore & Anna Takis

7 The Cross+Roads Page 7 F EBRUARY SAINTS CONSTANTINE AND HELEN (Continued from page 3) the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted." SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee Triodion Begins Today All foods are allowed the week that follows this Sunday. Timothy the Righteous John III, Patriarch of Constantinople Eustathius, Bishop of Antioch Zachariah, Patriarch of Jerusalem 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. WISDOM OF THE FATHERS It is possible for those who have come back again after repentance to shine with much lustre, and oftentimes more than those who have never fallen at all, I have demonstrated from the divine writings. Thus at least both the publicans and the harlots inherit the kingdom of Heaven, thus many of the last are placed before the first. St. John Chrysostom, AN EXHORTATION TO THEO- DORE AFTER HIS FALL, 4th Century. FEBRUARY 28 EPISTLE READING 2 Corinthians 6:12-20 GOSPEL READING Luke 15:11-32 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Kyranna the New Martyr of Thessaloniki Jonah the Righteous Martyr of Lerios Basil the Confessor Sunday of the Prodigal Son Meatfare Monday G REEK SCHOOL CELEBRATES F EASTDAY OF 3 H IERARCHS ON J ANUARY 31 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 The Brothers of Chapter 241 are offering various Greek pantry items for your homes. Please come by the AHEPA center to purchase stock for all your cooking needs. Proceeds benefit general and philanthropic AHEPA programs. HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday Saturday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Sunday: 1 hour after Church HWPS SALE OF PAVERS ENGRAVED PAVERS AROUND THE FOUNTAININ OF THE BIBLICAL GARDEN ARE NOW ON SALE. IF YOU WISH TO HONOR OR MEMORIALIZE A LOVED ONE CALL OR TO PLACE AN ORDER.

9 The Cross+Roads Page 9 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES NOVEMBER 23 AND DECEMBER 14, 2015 NOVEMBER 23, 2015 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: The meeting convened at 1910 with an opening prayer by Father George. The spiritual education topic was the Gospel of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-7) and Charity. The following items were discussed, with action items in bold script: Present: Father George Chioros, Alex Constantine, Barry Hendricks, Barbara France, Joanna Vallas, Tom Grepiotis, Elias Doulgerakis, and Jason Holbrook Absent: Alexis Galoozis, Gus Fotiadis, Bobby Garofalis, and Frank Peri Guests/Visitors: John Dermanis Newly Elected: Peter Johns, Zena Mageras, Bob Demson, and Howard Mandeville II: Minutes: Barbara France made a motion to approve the 12th October 2015 meeting minutes; seconded by Tom Grepiotis, passed unanimously III: Correspondence: Letter from Mr. Chris Zambas and Mr. Kurt Detweiler with Festival figures including Final Fall and Spring P&L Reports (copies included with minutes) Clergy Compensation Plan guidelines for 2016 (given to Joanna Vallas for inclusion in CY16 budget discussions) Statement Dated 30th September 2015 from Morgan Stanley regarding the Parish s Investment Account Letter dated 23rd October 2015 from the Metropolis of New Jersey assigning the 2016 Fair Share, $71,400, for a monthly allotment of $5920 (for increase of $120/month) IV: Treasurer s Report: $30,000 entered into the account on the 19th of November from the Spring Festival, along with $49K in credit card sales from the Fall Festival Revenues: Stewardship is up, as are the Spring Festival and Catering Expenses: Maintenance and Repairs are down, other expenses align with projections with some festival-related (i.e. consumable) expenses up to allow for increased participation by visitors in the festivals and other events Net Income looks good, expect more bills in November from the Fall Festival From Kurt Detweiler: Revenues from the Spring Festival were enough to transfer $215K into the church operating account V: Visitor s Comments: Mr. Dermanis Fall Festival Committee: Thank you to the PC for the support report meeting on the 9th of November went well income expected ~$109,900, with expenses of ~$52K We ran out of food by Dinner time on Saturday, evaluating the ordering to stay as close to the mark as possible Great success, thanks to the whole community Ice: It would cost ~ to repair the second ice machine which could help in the next festival Mr. Hendricks: Thanks to John Dermanis for his willingness to serve as Chairman for the Fall Festival Concern with left-over Angus Beef There was left over meat from the Festival and the AHEPA planned to buy it and use it but heard the Church had plans for it Question is to whom does the meat belong (Festival or Church) and what arrangements were made to sell it at cost AHEPA has been told they can have it at cost Floors in the Hall Request to buff and clean the floors prior to a wedding on 5th December. Peter Johns agreed to find a cleaning company and get an estimate Kitchen Cleaning Need to align the PORT schedule to make sure the kitchen is cleaned prior to our hosting VI: Committee Reports: Stewardship Ministry: Numbers from the ParishSoft database: To date, received 149 pledges totaling $161,395, and have received 63 contributions counted towards stewardship totaling $27,541 As we get to the end of the year we will know how close we are to pledge 2016 commitment forms went go out in the Cross+Roads first part of November nd November 2015 Stewardship Commitment Sunday - 41 Forms received totaling $57,612 for 2016 which averages Mean $1,405 or Median $1,170 per family Reminder that pledges may be made with the forms available in the Narthex or online through the parish website. Youth Report: Discussed during Priest s Report House: 7th November 2015: Youth Challenge Banquet 240 people were entertained Sysco made a mistake with the chicken order and doubled it but couldn t take it back, leaving the parish with ~360 extra servings which are available for other events Thanks to all the volunteers for their help The parish will now begin to book the police since during several events the clients failed to do so Rentals are doing well, upcoming events include: 5th December 2015: Wedding Rental 9th-11th December 2015: Vasilopita Baking 14th December 2015: Golden Hearts 30th December 2015: Prep for New Years Eve 13th December 2015: AHEPA St Nicholas Shrine Luncheon 28th-29th December 2015: Fire Suppression System Reinstallation 24th March 2016: Boys and Girls Club Dinner Festival Reports in for Spring and Fall from Mr. Detweiler As requested by the General Assembly, Mr. Detweiler is working with Mr. Alvin Garrison to audit the Festival records during the month of December Detailed report attached to the minutes Maintenance Committee Mr. Doulgerakis: We anticipate some bills for the repairs of the salad shed and the broken windows for materials Kitchen Fire Suppression System Rescheduled for 28th December 2015 City of Newport News Codes and Compliance is aware of the scheduled installation Church Painting Completed, however there is some touch-up to do Church Parking Lot Completed 31st October 2015 thanks to Hayden Hendricks and the volunteers from GOYA and Boy Scout Troop 218 for the support Centurion Campaign To date, received 19 pledges totaling $26,150, $16,840 remitted, $8K towards the loan, and $2K towards St. Nicholas We still have a long way to go this is a priority in this community There will be an article with Q&A in the Cross+Roads please read and contribute as you can Goals: $126,500 in donations Pay off the remaining balance on the Hall renovation line of credit ($70K outstanding) Build an emergency capital reserve fund to replace aging capital infrastructure Make a community gift to the rebuilding of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in New York City Other Committees Nothing Significant to Report VII: Priest s and Youth Report 3rd-6th November 2015: Fr. George attended the Bi-annual Clergy Retreat in San Diego 17th November 2015: Fire Inspection in support of PORT 2 deficiencies noted Electrical Room had too many obstructions and Philoptochos Closet had baskets too near the ceiling Easy corrections, and the Parish Passed December 2015: GOYA will provide gift cards in support of the 20 kids at St. Basil s Academy December 2015: We need the names of the parishioners and spouses wishing to be in the parish Christmas card ASAP for on-time delivery 4th December 2015: Youth Lockin at St. Dimitrios Parish of Williamsburg, staffed by former Ionian Village volunteers 6th-12th December 2015: Choral rehearsals for Christmas Program 13th December 2015: Christmas Program 13th December 2015: AHEPA St. Nicholas Luncheon, $10/person, all proceeds go to AHEPA s contribution to St. Nicholas (Goal $1000 total/ chapter) 16th-23rd December GOYA will participate in the PORT project, as will the Russian School All parishioners asked to participate we need volunteers for more than just cooking 1st November 2015: Joy and Hope had their Fall Festival 7th-8th November 2015: The Girls GOYA team placed 3rd in the Tournament 16th-23rd December 2015: PORT Project Sts. Constantine and Helen will host, and has made contact with the supporting partner churches VIII: Unfinished Business: Church Directory Update Directory was completed and distributed during the Fall General Assembly Book Keeper Update Jason Holbrook will investigate a book keeper with support of Alvin Garrison PORT Project Sts. Constantine and Helen will host PORT December beginning with Dinner on the 16th and finishing with Breakfast on the 23rd Hosting responsibilities: We will set up facilities and the partner churches provide the manning for meals and other areas 16th December : Request 10 volunteers to provide labor in offloading linens, sundries, etc., to set up (Continued on page 10)

10 The Cross+Roads Page 10 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES CONTINUED (Continued from page 9) Big day for Sts. Constantine and Helen is 20th-21st December Several shifts needed : Need 6 members for Check-in and 4-5 for Dinner shift is currently covered : Need at least one person for the over-night shift : 4-5 Kitchen People, 5 checkout to make food available, return personal items, etc. On the other dates, (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd) the committee still needs volunteers every night (at least 1/night) the minimum 6 have volunteered, but parishioners are encouraged to help supplement these volunteers The partner parishes are very committed and professional Thank you to Chris and Hope Zambas for a donation towards food in lieu of their participation due to a schedule conflict There have been additional anonymous donations Also discussed serving as a partner church on 17th January in support of Tabernacle Baptist Kudos to Mrs. Trish Demson for her heart-felt support of the program New Year s Eve Party Fr. George: Fr. George of Norfolk requested a flyer to advertise the event flyer is forthcoming from the DJ VIII: New Business: Calendar Year 16 Budget Preparation Need to start preparing for next year previous committee members already have the information to start preparations No start date yet but must be ready to present NLT January and include all of the forecasted expenses for the budget Round Table Howard Mandeville: Question about the Russian School The Russian School is a Russian Language program where Russian Parishioners use the classrooms on Saturday Mornings to teach Russian to the youth They are very supportive members of this community, gave a Nativity Donation, and plan to help with the PORT Mission Fr. George: Thanks to the six new PC members for volunteering to serve the community We have paid our total commitment for 2015, the elections were properly held; thus there should be no issues with ratifying the PC Expect 10th January 2016 for installation IX: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at Next meeting 14th December X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Alexander N. Constantine Secretary DECEMBER 14, 2015 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: The meeting convened at 1915 with an opening prayer by Father George and commemoration of the victims of Sandy Hook Elementary. The spiritual education topic was the search for happiness and getting involved following the cue of Sunday s Bulletin message. The following items were discussed, with action items in bold script: Present: Father George Chioros, Alex Constantine, Gus Fotiadis, Barry Hendricks, Barbara France, Tom Grepiotis, and Elias Doulgerakis Absent: Alexis Galoozis, Jason Holbrook, Bobby Garofalis, Joanna Vallas, and Frank Peri Guests/Visitors: Trish Demson Newly Elected: Zena Mageras, Bob Demson, and Howard Mandeville II: Minutes: Barbara France made a motion to approve the 23rd November 2015 meeting minutes; seconded by Elias Doulgerakis, passed unanimously III: Correspondence: Donation receipt dated 10 December 2015 from the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank for our donation of 83 pounds of canned and dry goods IV: Treasurer s Report: Nothing Significant to Report V: Visitor s Comments: Discussed during PORT Mission (Unfinished Business) VI: Committee Reports: Stewardship Ministry: 2015: No significant change from the previous month s report. 2016: Pledges received during Stewardship Commitment Sunday were on par with the previous year. Reminder that pledge forms are available in the Narthex or online through the parish website (in either a downloadable form or online form that can be filled out and submitted online. Still seeking a volunteer to lead the Stewardship Ministry Youth Report: December 2015: GOYA will provide gift cards in support of the 20 kids at St. Basil s Academy December 2015: We need the names of the parishioners and spouses wishing to be in the parish Christmas card ASAP for on-time delivery 4th December 2015: Youth Lockin at St. Dimitrios Parish of Williamsburg, staffed by former Ionian Village volunteers 12th December 2015: Joy/Hope stuffed stockings for Salvation Army 13th December 2015: Christmas Program was well attended 18th December 2015: GOYA will carol this Friday please advise soonest if you would like them to visit so the GOYA can plan a good route 20th December 2015: 3rd-5th Grade Sunday School will present blankets they collected to the local SPCA Basketball Practice will move to Sundays after church House: Rentals are doing well, review of past and upcoming events: 5th December 2015: Becouvarakis Wedding the flooring company did an excellent job refinishing the floor 13th December 2015: AHEPA St Nicholas Shrine Luncheon 14th December 2015: Golden Hearts 28th-29th December 2015: Fire Suppression System in kitchen reinstallation 30th December 2015: Prep for New Years Eve 24th March 2016: Boys and Girls Club Dinner We will attempt to replace the damaged tiles prior to the New Year s Party Festival Nothing Significant to Report Maintenance Committee Kitchen Fire Suppression System Rescheduled for 28th December 2015 Church Painting Completed, however there is some touch-up to do Picasso came and completed some corrections on Tuesday Tommy Gardner presented an estimate of ~2K to recharge and service the A/C PC will audit the proposal and move out if all checks out Centurion Campaign To date, received 21 pledges totaling $28,150 YTD $20,180 remitted, $9,250K towards the loan, and $2K towards St. Nicholas Additionally, $1, came in from the Garage Sale in October (100% of those proceeds went towards the renovation loan line of credit) Q&A in the December/January issue of the Cross+Roads please read and contribute as you can if you haven t yet pledged Goals $126,500, in order to: Pay off the remaining balance on the Hall renovation line of credit ($70K outstanding) Build an emergency capital reserve fund to repair aging capital infrastructure ($45k) Make a community gift of $12K to the rebuilding of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in New York City Other Committees Not a specific committee report, but Barry Hendricks clarified a misunderstanding that some parishioners have as it relates to the Parish Council s discretion in supporting and funding Fr. George s attendance at the Archdiocese Presbyters Council Retreat. Per both the Archdiocesan Uniform Parish Regulations and the Archdiocese Clergy Compensation Plan Guidelines for both 2015 and 2016, the parish must provide for the following: UPR, Article 29, Section 1, paragraph E: Provide for the Priest's remuneration and benefits in accordance with the Clergy Compensation Plan of the Archdiocese. Clergy Compensation Plan Guidelines (as it relates to assemblies, conferences, and retreats): Expenses for attending District/Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assemblies and Retreats, the Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress, Clergy Continuing Education Programs, and the Archdiocese Presbyters Council Retreat VII: Priest s and Youth Report Community Christmas Card: Thanks to those of you who contributed, they are in the mail as of today thanks to Sylvia Marcin and Matina Mimikos for stuffing the envelopes Thank you to the parishioners who donated 42 poinsettias The most recent candle order came in and features beeswax candles, which while more expensive ($0.19 vs $0.12) are recyclable at $1/lb, smoke less, and smell better 10th December 2015: This is the 3rd Time Sts. Constantine and Helen has contributed to the Foodbank 13th December 2015: AHEPA St. Nicholas Luncheon, $10/person, proceeds went to AHEPA contribution to St. Nicholas (Goal $1000 total/ chapter) 16th-23rd December GOYA will participate in the PORT project, as will the Russian School All parishioners asked to participate we need volunteers for more than just cooking 16th-23rd December 2015: PORT Project Sts. Constantine and Helen will host, and has made contact with the supporting partner churches 24th-25th December Christmas (Continued on page 11)

11 The Cross+Roads (Continued from page 10) Services: 24th December 2015: Vesperal Liturgy at 1900 in the main sanctuary 25th December 2015: Orthros at 0900 and Liturgy at 1000 at the chapel 10th January 2015: Philoptochos Luncheon to benefit St. Basil s Academy 22nd January 2016 (Friday): Invitation from St. Basil s Antiochian Church to join them for a Norfolk Admirals Hockey Night 11th February 2016: The VA Council of Churches will host their annual winter meeting at Sts. Constantine and Helen Thank you to the departing PC members for their service, and welcome to the newly-elected and veteran members of this council we look forward to serving together VIII: Unfinished Business: Book Keeper / Office Manager Update Thank you to Sylvia Marcin for her support volunteering to help keep the books straight for the church she comes to church every day to support the office and her service has been invaluable The PC is investigating some options for book keepers both in the long and short term PORT Mission Mrs. Demson: Still need support for the overnight shifts and matt delivery / pickup The PC members volunteered to fill several vacancies Still looking for support above minimum fills please contact Mrs. Demson for details 17th January 2016: Sts. Constantine and Helen will support Tabernacle Baptist in Denbeigh more to come on volunteer needs for that event New Year s Eve Party Flyers are out, additional information forthcoming Preparation of CY16 Budget Nothing Significant to Report VIII: New Business: 2016 Usher Schedule Barbara France built the schedule and distributed to the PC members schedule included with the hardcopy minutes Round Table Barry Hendricks: New draft calendar for planning is in work please begin to add events to it to ensure we keep track of all the great events / feast days for 2016 Fr. George is on call at Riverside for pastoral services tonight IX: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at Next meeting 10th January 2015 for election of officers followed by 18th January 2015 for the regular meeting. X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Alexander N. Constantine Secretary Thank you to our 2016 Parish Council who received the oath of office from Father George on January 10. Serving the Parish are Barry Hendricks, President, Barbara France, Vice President, Joanna Vallas, Treasurer, Zena Mageras, Assistant Treasurer, Robert Demson, Secretary, Konstantinos Fotiadis, Dr. Bobby Garofalis, Tom Grepiotis, Jason Holbrook, Peter Johns and Howard Mandeville. 1 Monday 6:30pm Philoptochos 2 Tuesday Presentation of our Lord 9:00am Orthros / 10:00am Divine Liturgy 5:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 3 Wednesday 5:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 6 Saturday OCF Retreat at Williamsburg 7 Sunday 16 th Sunday of Matthew 8:45 Orthros 10:00 Divine Liturgy Ahepa Super Bowl Party 9 Tuesday 5:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 10 Wednesday St. Haralambos the Martyr 9:00am Orthros / 10:00am Divine Liturgy 5:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 5:45 Paraclesis 6:30 Adult Education 7:15pm Choir 11 Thursday 6:30pm HWPS 13 Saturday Wedding 14 Sunday Sunday of the Canaanite 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy Page 11 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat February Monday 7:00pm Parish Council 16 Tuesday 5:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 17 Wednesday 5:30 Paraclesis 6:15 Adult Education 7:15pm Choir 21 Sunday Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee Triodion Begins 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy General Assembly 3pm Baptism 22 Monday 7:00pm Parish Council 23 Tuesday 6:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 24 Wednesday 6:00pm/8:00pm Greek School 5:45 Paraclesis 6:30 Adult Education 7:15pm Choir 27 Saturday HWPS Theater 28 Sunday Sunday of the Prodigal Son 8:45am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy Ahepa Meatball Luncheon

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.