T HE CROSS+ROADS F ROM FATHER GEORGE W ALKING THE WALK. Hi-Lites Orthodox Christian Mission

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1 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA T HE CROSS+ROADS Volume April 2014 Issue INSIDE THIS ISSUE: April Sundays 2-5 Through the Bible A Z Registry / Announcements Greek School March 25 Program 4 6 Clubs & Community 7 Through the Bible A Z 6 8 PC Minutes 9-11 Calendar 11 Hi-Lites Orthodox Christian Mission Center Visit March 31 following Compline Prayers Palm Sunday April 13 Holy Pascha April 20 F ROM FATHER GEORGE W ALKING THE WALK As you are receiving this edition of the Crossroads we are coming closer to our walking the walk of Holy Week. Father Leonidas Contos in his book, The Lenten Covenant reminds us that the whole aim of Lent is to renew in us the experience of God. Each one of us has had some beautiful experiences in our lives. One can fondly remember these experiences through the viewing of pictures in an album or even viewing videos of some of these events. As time goes on and some of the special people in our lives have entered the Kingdom of God, what treasures we have collected reminding us of these great times. S TEWARDSHIP MINISTRY Don t Tell Me The Sky Is The Limit When There Are Footprints On The Moon. Reprinted by permission from Bill Marianes Will Rogers once concluded: Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects. Voltaire reminded us: Common sense is not so common. Winston Churchill observed: "There but for the grace of God - goes God." Comedian Bill Cosby opined: A word to the wise ain t necessary because it s the stupid ones that need the advice. Each of these four comments (and this article s title courtesy of satirist Ashleigh Brilliant) is a paraprosdokian. A paraprosdokian is frequently used by philosophers, comics, politicians and lawyers. The father in My Big Fat Greek Wedding would explain this word comes from the Greek word "παρά", meaning "against" and "προσδοκία", meaning "expectation". So a paraprosdokian is a phrase where the latter part is surprising or unexpected given the earlier part. As a lawyer, I negotiate/argue for a living and posted near my telephone is the wise counsel: Never argue with an idiot or fool, because: (1) people listening may not be able to tell the difference, and (2) they will lower you to their level and then beat you with their experience. If you see me As Orthodox Christians we are to fulfill our treasure chests by receiving the Sacraments of the Church. The regular receiving of the Lord s Body and Blood through the celebration of the Eucharist and preparing ourselves for Holy Unction on Holy Wednesday will assist us in our cleansing of our bodies and our souls. The invitation to worship is in front of us; let us not make up excuses for not responding to the invitation from the Church. It is my hope that we will stand together with our bright candles in order to exclaim with a loud cry that our Lord has triumphed over death and celebrate the ultimate victory that cannot be compared to any victory on an athletic field. suddenly stop in the middle of a negotiation/ argument, you ll now know why. So what does this great Greek word have to do with my life s calling of stewardship? I am reminded of the direct paraprosdokian: If you have to tell someone you are a gentlemen (or lady), then you are not. So let me ask you very directly, If you have to tell someone you are a steward (or see your name on a list of stewards) are you really a steward of God s blessings? What is your motivation, and what does it really mean to be a steward? Dictionaries define a steward as someone who manages the assets of another. But if a steward manages the resources of SOMEONE ELSE, am I am really managing MY time/talents/treasures? If not, then whose are they? St. John Chrysostom offers us the answer in his homily On Living Simply. He asked if he owned his own mind, body, house or clothes? He concluded that he did not, and that they were only on loan to him from God during his life and would be taken back upon his passing. (You ll never see a hearse driving down the road followed by a U-Haul trailer.) Thus, St. John Chrysostom clarified that what we really possess during our lives are the virtues that we allow to grow and flourish within our souls. He reminded us that these were immortal gifts that (Continued on page 8)

2 The Cross+Roads Page 2 A PRIL SUNDAYS 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 yourparishcouncil@hotmail.com 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 John Dermanis, President Bobby Vidakis, Vice Pres. Michael Chalkias, Treasurer Frank Peri, Asst. Treasurer Alex Constantine, Secretary Elias Doulgerakis Konstantinos Fotiadis Alexis Galoozis Roger Headrick Barry Hendricks Zena Mageras Chanters John Siokis Harry Fotiou Alex Constantine Office Secretary Tasia Savrides Archdiocese on the web 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 6, 2014 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 9:11-14 BRETHREN, when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) he entered once for all into the Holy Place, taking not the blood of goats and calves but his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. For if the sprinkling of defiled persons with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a heifer sanctifies Philoptochos Athena Savvas, President Religious Education Aleksandra Garofalis, Administrative Director Frances Tsimplekis, Artistic Director Greek School Matina Mimikos, Paula Tofalli, Maria Pentakos Youth Ministry Stephanie Peri and Kent Paumier, Advisors Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Helen Micha, Director Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA) Giovanna Peri, President for the purification of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify your conscience from dead works to serve the living God. GOSPEL READING Mark 10:32-45 At that time, Jesus taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles; and they will mock him, and spit upon him, and scourge him, and kill him; and after three days he will rise." And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him, and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." And he said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?" And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?" And they said to him, "We are able." And Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant of James and John. And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are supposed to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt The memory of this Saint is P ARISH MINISTRIES & ORGANIZATIONS Kent Paumier, Advisor Young Adult League (YAL) Anastasia Theodorogiannis, President Golden Hearts Chris Fotiou, President Order of AHEPA Newport News John Christou, President Daughters of Penelope Helen Dennie, President Hellenic Womens Penelope Society Helen Vaughn, President Hellenic Youth Dancers Bobby Garofalis, Director

3 The Cross+Roads Page 3 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 fortyseven years; and also that the great loving-kindness of God, and His readiness to receive the repentant, might be demonstrated in very deed. Eutychius, Patriarch of Constantinople 120 Martyrs of Persia Gregory of Sinai HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in Plagal of the Fourth Tone From on high didst Thou descend, O Compassionate One; to burial of three days hast Thou submitted that Thou mightest free us from our passions. O our Life and Resurrection, Lord, glory be to Thee. Apolytikion for Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone 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 Tone O Protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame, mediation unto the creator most constant: O despise not the voices of those 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 THE 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 13, 2014 EPISTLE READING St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians 4:4-9 BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything 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 Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you. GOSPEL READING John 12:1-18 Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazaros was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazaros was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me." When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazaros, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazaros also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazaros out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. 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 (Continued on page 4) ACOLYTES April 13 Team A - Dominic Peri Kostas Polyzos, Jorgie Polyzos, Dean Peri, Joseph Dennie, Yianni Tsimplekis, James St. Martin, Cris Campbell See Holy Week Schedule Team B - Brandon Pingley Christian Detweiler, Hayden Hendricks, Michael Christou, Anthony Capobianco, Matthew Swanenburg, Johnny Gray April 6 & 27 Team C - Collin Patrinely Christos Konstantinou, Ian Sadler, Georgios Haramis, Ethan Detweiler, Christopher Myers, Soterios Tofalli EPISTLE READERS April 6: Helen George April 12: (Sat. of Lazarus) Kathy Haramis April 13: (GOYA) Christian Detweiler April 19: (Holy Saturday) Christina Thames April 20: (Pascha) Howard Mandeville April 27: James Woodbury REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts for the month of March. The hosts for April are: April 6: M/M Bill Marakos, Mrs. Zoe Marcopoulos, M/M Jimmy Matheos. April 13: Mr. George Markos, Mr. Mickey Markos, M/M Pete Markos April 20: GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA. April 27: Mrs. Sylvia Marcin, M/M Nick Matthews, Mrs. Sylvia Matthews

4 The Cross+Roads Page 4 A PRIL SAINTS CONSTANTINE & HELEN (Continued from page 3) 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. Martin the Confessor, Pope of Rome HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the Fourth Tone 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. Συνταφέντες σοι διὰ τοῦ Βαπτίσματος, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν, τῆς ἀθανάτου ζωῆς ἠξιώθημεν τῇ Ἀναστάσει σου, καὶ ἀνυμνοῦντες κράζομεν Ὡσαννὰ ἐν τοῖς ὑψίστοις, εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος, ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal of the Second Tone 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 THE 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. B#58, p.245., 4th Century APRIL 20, 2014 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 1:1-8 IN THE FIRST BOOK, O Theophilos, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. To them he presented himself alive after his passion by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, "you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit." So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom of lsrael?" He said to them, "it is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth." GOSPEL READING John 1:1-17 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own home, and his own people received him not. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to him, and cried, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.'") And from his fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. Κατὰ Ἰωάννην Ἐν ἀρχῇ ἦν ὁ Λόγος, καὶ ὁ Λόγος ἦν πρὸς τὸν Θεόν, καὶ Θεὸς ἦν ὁ Λόγος. Οὗτος ἦν ἐν ἀρχῇ πρὸς τὸν Θεόν. πάντα δι αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο, καὶ χωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἓν ὃ γέγονεν. ἐν αὐτῷ ζωὴ ἦν, καὶ ἡ ζωὴ ἦν τὸ φῶς τῶν ἀνθρώπων. καὶ τὸ φῶς ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ φαίνει, καὶ ἡ σκοτία αὐτὸ οὐ κατέλαβεν. Εγένετο ἄνθρωπος ἀπεσταλμένος παρὰ Θεοῦ, ὄνομα αὐτῷ Ιωάννης οὗτος ἦλθεν εἰς μαρτυρίαν, ἵνα μαρτυρήσῃ περὶ τοῦ φωτός, ἵνα πάντες πιστεύσωσι δι αὐτοῦ. οὐκ ἦν ἐκεῖνος τὸ φῶς, ἀλλ ἵνα μαρτυρήσῃ περὶ τοῦ φωτός. Ην τὸ φῶς τὸ ἀληθινόν, ὃ φωτίζει πάντα ἄνθρωπον ἐρχόμενον εἰς τὸν κόσμον. ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ ἦν, καὶ ὁ κόσμος δι αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο, καὶ ὁ κόσμος αὐτὸν οὐκ ἔγνω. εἰς τὰ ἴδια ἦλθε, καὶ οἱ ἴδιοι αὐτὸν οὐ παρέλαβον. ὅσοι δὲ ἔλαβον αὐτόν, ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἐξουσίαν τέκνα Θεοῦ γενέσθαι, τοῖς πιστεύουσιν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ, οἳ οὐκ ἐξ αἱμάτων, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος σαρκός, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος ἀνδρός, ἀλλ ἐκ Θεοῦ ἐγεννήθησαν. Καὶ ὁ Λόγος σὰρξ ἐγένετο καὶ ἐσκήνωσεν ἐν ἡμῖν, καὶ ἐθεασάμεθα τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ, δόξαν ὡς μονογενοῦς παρὰ πατρός, πλήρης χάριτος καὶ ἀληθείας. Ιωάννης μαρτυρεῖ περὶ αὐτοῦ καὶ κέκραγε λέγων οὗτος ἦν ὃν εἶπον, ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν. Καὶ ἐκ τοῦ πληρώματος αὐτοῦ ἡμεῖς πάντες ἐλάβομεν, καὶ χάριν ἀντὶ χάριτος ὅτι ὁ νόμος διὰ Μωϋσέως ἐδόθη, ἡ χάρις καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια διὰ Ιησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐγένετο. SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Great and Holy Pascha Mary Magdalene, and the other women who were present at the burial of our Saviour on Friday evening, returned from Golgotha to the city and prepared fragrant spices and myrrh, so that they might anoint the body of Jesus. On the morrow, because of the law which forbids work on the day of the Sabbath, they rested for the whole day. But at early dawn on the Sunday that followed, almost thirty-six hours since the death of the Life-giving Redeemer, they came to the sepulchre with the spices to anoint His body. While they were considering the difficulty of rolling away the stone from the door of the sepulchre, there was a fearful earthquake; and an Angel, whose countenance shone like lightning and whose garment (Continued on page 5)

5 The Cross+Roads Page 5 (Continued from page 4) was white as snow, rolled away the stone and sat upon it. The guards that were there became as dead from fear and took to flight. The women, however, went into the sepulchre, but did not find the Lord's body. Instead, they saw two other Angels in the form of youths clothed in white, who told them that the Saviour was risen, and they sent forth the women, who ran to proclaim to the disciples these gladsome tidings. Then Peter and John arrived, having learned from Mary Magdalene what had come to pass, and when they entered the tomb, they found only the winding sheets. Therefore, they returned again to the city with joy, as heralds now of the supernatural Resurrection of Christ, Who in truth was seen alive by the disciples on this day on five occasions. Our Lord, then, was crucified, died, and was buried on Friday, before the setting of the sun, which was the first of His "three days" in the grave; observing the mystical Sabbath, that "seventh day" in which it is said that the Lord "rested from all His works" (Gen. 2:2-3), He passed all of Saturday in the grave; and He arose "while it was yet dark, very early in the morning" on Sunday, the third day, which, according to the Hebrew reckoning, began after sunset on Saturday. As we celebrate today this joyous Resurrection, we greet and embrace one another in Christ, thereby demonstrating our Saviour's victory over death and corruption, and the destruction of our ancient enmity with God, and His reconciliation toward us, and our inheritance of life everlasting. The feast itself is called Pascha, which is derived from the Hebrew word which means "passover"; because Christ, Who suffered and arose, has made us to pass over from the curse of Adam and slavery to the devil and death unto our primal freedom and blessedness. In addition, this day of this particular week, which is the first of all the rest, is dedicated to the honour of the Lord; in honour and remembrance of the Resurrection, the Apostles transferred to this day the rest from labour that was formerly assigned to the Sabbath of the ancient Law. All foods allowed during Renewal Week. Theodore the Trichinas Zacchaeus the Apostle of Caesaria Gregory & Anastasios, Patriarchs of Antioch HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal of the First Tone Christ is risen from the dead, by death hath He trampled down death, and on those in the graves hath He bestowed life. Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος. Hypakoe of Great and Holy Pascha in the Fourth Tone When they who were with Mary came, anticipating the dawn, and found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, they heard from the Angel: Why seek ye among the dead, as though He were mortal man, Him Who abideth in everlasting light? Behold the grave-clothes. Go quickly and proclaim to the world that the Lord is risen, and hath put death to death. For He is the Son of God, Who saveth the race of men. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrh-bearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Now this is a proof that Christ is God the Word, and the Power of God. For whereas human things cease, and the Word of Christ abides, it is clear to all eyes that what ceases is temporary, but that He Who abides is God, and the true Son of God, His only-begotten Word. St. Athanasius of Alexandria, On the Incarnation 55, 4th Century APRIL 27, 2014 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 5:12-20 IN THOSE DAYS, many signs and wonders were done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high honor. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. But the high priest rose up and all who were with him, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the common prison. But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out and said, "Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life." GOSPEL READING John 20:19-31 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them: "Peace be with you." When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them: "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him: "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them: "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in His side, I will not believe." Eight days later, His disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said: "Peace be with you." Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing." Thomas answered Him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to Him: "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Thomas Sunday The Holy Hieromartyr Symeon, Kinsman of the Lord Eulogios the Innkeeper of Constantinople HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Thomas Sunday in the Grave Tone Whilst the tomb was sealed, Thou, O Life, didst shine forth from the grave, O Christ God; and whilst the doors were shut, Thou didst come unto Thy disciples, O Resurrection of all, renewing through them an upright Spirit in us according to Thy great mercy. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrh-bearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. WISDOM OF THE FATHERS For though the Apostles themselves modestly ascribe it all to this cause, declaring that they did these things in the name of Christ. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 12 on Acts IV, 4th Century.

6 The Cross+Roads Page 6 C HURCH REGISTRY / ANNOUNCEMENTS BAPTISM: We welcome into our Faith Jennifer Mullen who was baptized in our Church, March 8 and was given the name Anastasia by her godmother, Maria Poulimenos. Our sincere congratulations and best wishes to Jennifer, her godmother and her entire family. ENGAGEMENT: Our sincere congratulations and best wishes to Andrea Velissarios and George Lawton who were recently engaged. I ora i kali!!!! RECENTLY ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS: We wish a speedy recovery to our friends and fellow parishioners who have been ill an/or recently hospitalized: Dimitrios Hamilothoris, Helen Kanelos, Peter Kilopoulos, Agnelo Mageras and Jimmy Pahno. Perastika sas!!!!! DEATHS: Our sincere condolences to the family of Angie Kilopoulos who died on February 20 and whose funeral service was held in our Church on February 28. Our sincere condolences to the family of Sam Varlas, brother of Dottie Andre, who died on March 14 in Wheeling, West Virginia. Our sincere condolences to the family of Donald Call, father of Andy Call, who died on March 18. May their memory be eternal!!!!!! THANK YOU: The Kilopoulos and Call families thank all their friends and fellow parishioners for their phone calls, get-well cards and expressions of sympathy during the late Angie's illness and eventual death. The Maurakis family wishes to thank everyone for their expressions of sympathy on the death of Sophia Bambalis, granddaughter of Loula Maurakis. G REEK SCHOOL I NDEPENDENCE DAY PROGRAM Elliniki Psihi dancers above and Greek School to right AHEPA SCHOLARSHIPS AHEPA Scholarship Applications for high school seniors and undergraduate college students are available at the AHEPA Hall between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays. See John Dakis at the AHEPA Hall or contact Greg Bicouvaris at bicogb@hotmail.com for more information. District Applications must be postmarked and returned by April 15, 2014 and Chapter Applications must be postmarked and returned by April 30, THE ANASTASIOS L. DANIEL SCHOLARSHIP This year will mark the first year that the Parish Council will administer an annual scholarship established by the Estate of our 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 office by May 11, PORT HOMELESS SHELTER The PORT Committee would like to thank the Saur's family and the "Ringas Sisters" for providing desserts for both of the PORT events that our church sponsored this year. Many thanks to all the numerous volunteers who helped with this ministry of our church. ANASTASI (RESURRECTION) MEAL The Parish Council would like to invite all of our faithful to the Annual Anastasi Meal which will take place in the early morning hours following the Resurrection Service and Divine Liturgy on April 20, The light fare will include Avgolemono Soup and the Traditional Mageritsa Soup. ATTENDANCE March March March March Mar Mar YTD 14 Ave 175 YTD 13 Ave 192 Koliva If you would like to purchase Koliva for memorials, you may contact: Helen George Anastasia Savrides Athena Savvas Cross+Roads The approximate cost each month for the Cross+Roads is $375 for printing and $45 for mailing. Should you wish to help sponsor the publishing of the Cross+Roads, please contact the Church office. 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

7 The Cross+Roads Page 7 C LUB AND COMMUNITY NEWS PHILOPTOCHOS Once again we remind our good friends and fellow parishioners that we continue to collect box tops for education as well as Farm Fresh receipts for our special project in support of our area's public schools. Please continue to bring us these items placing them in the receptacles that we have placed in the Narthex. And., as always, many thanks for your continued support. Application forms for the Platon Gailey and Philoptochos Scholarships are now available and can be picked up at the Church Office, Monday thru Friday, during working hours. These applications must be completed and returned to the Philoptochos Scholarship Committee, 60 Traverse Rd, Newport News, VA, They must be post marked by the U.S. Post Office no later than April 30,2014. Philoptochos will be baking its annual Easter Tsourekia, April 2, 3 & 4. To all our members: Your help is needed. Make yourselves available and be there to help as much as you can. This is one of our most profitable fund-raising projects, and we need everyone's help. Again, many thanks for giving of your time and talent. The Philoptochos Palm Sunday Luncheon is on Sunday, April 13, immediately following Church Services. We invite all our good friends to join us for a delicious meal and great fellowship. Our national obligations 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. The April meeting of the Philoptochos will be Monday, April 7, in the Community Center. We'll begin the meeting with refreshments at 6:30pm provided by hostesses. Kiki Canavos & Athina Ikonomou. DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE: On March 8, a workshop was held in our AHEPA FAMILY HOME, attended by members of AHEPA and Daughters from District #3and in which ways were discussed in how to expand the membership in both the AHEPA and Daughters Chapters. The fourth of the mandatory projects that were selected by the Daughters at the 2013 Supreme Convention in Orlando, FL is the University of Miami Sylvester Cancer Research Center (Papanikolaou) -This dedicated comprehensive cancer center opened, is a world leader in the search for a cancer cure. The Daughters of Penelope are members of the Grand Founders of the Giving Societies of the Sylvester Cancer Center, where our funds are given. The Center is involved in hundreds of research initiatives and is recognized as one of the top cancer treatment and research facilities, with advanced cancer-fighting diagnostic and treatment services. Translating research breakthroughs into more effective treatments remains one of Sylvester's highest priorities, particularly in the areas of the many gynecological cancers that include many clinical research trials. Part of the Center, formerly Papanikolaou Cancer Center, was named for Dr. George Papanikolaou, who through his research left an impressive legacy introducing the world to the women's life-saving test called the "Pap Smear" The new Pap Corps volunteers conduct fund raising for cancer research at the Center. The Daughters once again will sponsor the Easter Egg Hunt for the children of our Parish on Easter Sunday, following the Agape Services. The April meeting of the Daughters will be on Thursday, April 24, starting with dinner at 6:45pm, to be followed by the business meeting at 7:30 pm. HELLENIC WOMAN S PENELOPE SOCIETY The Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society (HWPS) will meet on Thursday, April 3 rd at 6:30 PM at the Hellenic Center. Pauline Schlim will serve as hostess. Our 15th Annual Dinner Theater was a huge success. The attendance was the largest ever, and both the meal and the play were outstanding. We extend our sincere appreciation to the following hard-working members who, year after year, answer the call to action and contribute their talents and time: General Chairman: Marika Anthony; General Co-Chairman, Maggie Thompson: Food Preparation Committee: Tessie Dakis, Chairman, Aliki Asime, Barbara France, Anna Mageras, Cleo Pileggi,Tasia Savrides, Maggie Thompson: Coordinating the IBM Student Servers: Zena Mageras, Chairman, Christine Mignogna, Alaina Walker; Decorations: Frances Polizos, Chairman, Joanie Michalos, Christine Mignogna, Sandra Stirbet: Dessert Preparation: Marika Anthony; Dessert Table: Christine Mignogna; Homemade Bread: Helen George and Tessie Dakis, Co-Chairmen, Cleo Pileggi, Stavroula Valentin; Hostess: Maggie Thompson; Publicity and Tickets: Marika Anthony; Souvenir Program: Maggie Thompson; Table Setting: Tessie Dakis, and Maggie Thompson, Co- Chairmen, Barbara France, Christine Mignogna, Frances Polizos, Pauline Schlim, Helen Vaughn; Wine and Greek Hors d ouevres: Maggie Thompson, Chairman, Pauline Schlim; Additional Helpers: Athena Savvas, Paula Tofalli. Many thanks are offered to the following for graciously donating: Greek Hors d ouvres: Marika Anthony, Aliki Asime, Kiki Canavos, Tessie Dakis, Barbara France, Joanie Michalos, Christine Mignogna, Sharon Otero, Frances Polizos, Tasia Savrides, Maggie Thompson, Helen Vaughn, Katherine Yeapanis; Dessert Lemon Torte: Marika Anthony. Our appreciation is also extended to: Jeff s Flowers of Course for donating the table floral arrangements, Mr. Mark Thompson for serving the wine and for printing the souvenir programs, Mr. Chris Stephanitsis of Norfolk for donating the coffee, and the International Baccalaureate students of the York County School Division for volunteering to serve the meal, and our wonderful patrons for their continued support. A highlight of this year s dinner theater was the use of the elegant and comfortable chairs, which we purchased and donated to the community center to help generate further income for our church. We hope to be able, after our spring bake sale, to order an additional 100 chairs, thus, coming closer to our goal of purchasing a total of 400 banquet chairs. Our Spring Bake Sale will be held on Saturday, April 12 th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Community Center. All pastries will be locally made and will include baklava, finikia, kourabiethes, koulourakia, ravani, and lemon torte. We urge all those interested in purchasing our delicious pastries to place advanced orders by calling Marika Anthony at as soon as possible. The pastry preparation schedule is as follows: Baklava and Kourabiedes, Monday, March 31 st ; Finikia and Koulourakia, Monday, April 7 th, and Finikia Syrup Dipping, Wednesday, April 9 th. Our Book Group has been invited by the Norfolk Annunciation Cathedral s Book Group to join them, on May 20 th, for a discussion of the book, Great Price: The Life of Maria Skartchova, by Sergei Hacked. Members - please check out the book and begin reading it as soon as possible. HWPS will offer one merit scholarship this year. The $ Father Peter and Gregory Makris Memorial Scholarship is given to a high school senior who has a 3.5 or better grade point average. Those eligible may contact Maria Vidakis at We offer our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family of Angie Kilopoulos who recently passed away. May her memory be eternal. Our thoughts and prayers are with two of our members, Betsy Sacalis and Helen Kanelos, who underwent surgery and are currently recuperating in a rehabilitation facility. We wish them a speedy recovery. WE WISH ALL OUR PARISHION- ERS A BLESSED AND HAPPY LEN- TEN PERIOD AND A HAPPY EASTER!

8 The Cross+Roads Page 8 S TEWARDSHIP MINISTRY (Continued from page 1) God would not take back because He wanted Heaven to be filled with virtue. Hopefully by now we all realize that we are stewards of everything we have because they are really God s and he has temporarily entrusted the management of them to us. So what will you do with God s gifts to you? The principal message of our Igniting The Flame Of True Christian Stewardship training program is to focus more on what you do with your most valuable asset, your time. Indeed, my personal paraprosdokian is: Your actions speak so loudly, that I can t hear what you re saying. So are we walking the stewardship walk, or just talking about it? Are we living the life our Lord called us to live by giving sacrificially of our time, talents, treasures and tithes to God s work here on this earth? The parable of the Talents from the Gospel of Matthew (25: 14-30) provides us the perfect roadmap. We are reminded that we each have received different talents, but it s what we do with our talents that determine our future. In those days, talents were a unit of economic measure. Today it means something different, but the message is still the same. We are not better because we have more, we are better because we do more with whatever we have. Is there anything more you can do for your Parish/Metropolis/ Archdiocese and your salvation? Do you have any skills, abilities or things that others in your Parish and community can use? If so, what s keeping you from giving of that talent and your time to GREEK PASTRY BAKE SALE Saturday, April 12, :00 AM 2:00 PM HELLENIC COMMUNITY CENTER 60 Traverse Road, Newport News, VA All interested are urged to place advanced orders, as we will bake limited quantities. Please call: (757) BAKLAVA $2.50/piece or $27/dozen FINIKIA $1/piece or $12/dozen KOURABIEDES $1/piece or $12/dozen KOULOURAKIA $.75/piece or $9/dozen RAVANI $2.00 piece or $24/dozen LEMON TORTE $2.50/piece or $27/dozen VARIETY PACK $10.00 Sponsored by: Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society God s Church and those who need you? The parable of the Talents assures us that the payoff for blessing others with the multiplication of your talents on this earth is to be told well done good and faithful servant, you have been faithful over a little, I will put you over much. Who wouldn t want to improve their odds of the gift of much and an eternity of joy with our Lord? God already gave us all our gifts. All we need to do is pay it forward and serve our Church and the world. G.K. Chesterton s offered the paraprosdokian: Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car. Please take a moment now to reflect on how good a job you are doing being a steward (caretaker) of the gifts God has given you. Examine your last week of 168 hours (10,080 minutes) and ask how many of those hours/ minutes did you actually devote to God s work? Which of God s gifts did you cause to multiply in the world this past week? What will you do this coming week to share your extraordinary talents for God s greater glory and your salvation? I believe that your stewardship is what you do with all the gifts God gave you. So what does your salvation account ledger look like? I do not wish to make you as paranoid as author Tom Clancy, who once said: I know I m paranoid, but am I paranoid enough? Instead, I ask you to reflect on Mother Teresa s advice: If you can t feed a hundred people, then just feed one. Or consider the advice of Pablo Picasso and President Franklin Roosevelt who respectively offered: Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone. There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still. Do something to live your stewardship calling today! And God bless you as you pursue your own unique stewardship calling. By day, Bill Marianes is a partner in the Atlanta office of an international law firm. By calling, he is a stewardship evangelist serving God. T HROUGH THE BIBLE A Z Speak truth in your heart Psalm 15:2 Speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts 1 Thess. 2:4 Special possession - Deuteronomy 4:20 Special treasure Deuteronomy 26:18,19 Spectacle to the world, both to angels and to man I Cor. 4:9 Spirit helps your weakness since you do not know how to pray as you should Romans 8:26 Spirit Himself testifies with your spirit that you are a child of God Romans 8:16 Spirit of God poured out on you when you listen to the Lord Proverbs 1:23 Spirit of Truth abides with you and in you forever John 14:16,17 Spiritual house for a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus 1 Peter 2:5 Splendor and majesty placed upon you Psalm 21:5 Spoken to God by vision Psalm 89:19

9 The Cross+Roads Page 9 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2014 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: The meeting was convened at 1910 by John Dermanis with the opening prayer by Father George Chioros and Prayer for the health of Presbytera Flora read by John Dermanis. The following items were discussed, with action items are shown in bold script. Present: Father George Chioros, John Dermanis, Bobby Vidakis, Zena Mageras, Frank Peri, Roger Headrick, Alex Constantine, Barry Hendricks, Alexis Galoozis and Gus Fotiades Absent: Michael Chalkias, Elias Doulgerakis Guests/Visitors: Jim Bostaff, Parish Organist II: Minutes: Frank Peri made a motion to approve 18 Dec 13 meeting minutes; Seconded by Zena Mageras, Passed unanimously III: Correspondence: Letter dated 19th December 2013 from Fr. Louis J. Noplos, St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Baltimore Maryland, regarding the Metropolis Clergy Retreat Parish will sponsor Fr. George s attendance Thank you dated letter dated 13th December 2013 from Fr. Nicholas G. Bacalis, Sts Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Richmond Virginia, in appreciation of a $250 donation to the Annual Fund of the Virginia Council of Churches Letter and Flyer from Erica Huffman, College Year in Athens, announcing 2014 study abroad course offerings Copy of the Ad Book from the GOYA group along with a thank you letter IV: Visitor s Comments: Jim Bostaff presented information regarding the parish s aging organ. Trouble with the sound prompted the staff to request a service visit from Allen Organ. Allen used to have a store in Richmond but now services the area from Powahattan. The tech s visit cost $350 and included replacing a burnt out light bulb. According to the technician, the two main boards in the organ are going bad and Mr. Bostaff recommended budgeting for the replacement of the instrument. In the interim, he optioned out brand new ($ $350 labor = $5100) and reconditioned ($ $350 labor = $2000) boards to correct the pitch and instrumentation problems derived from the degradation of the current boards. A final option would be to replace the more critical board now and hold off on the second, at an initial cost of $ $350 labor for the first board, with a follow-up visit at a later time costing $ $350 for the second board. Zena asked what it would cost to get a new organ they cover a range, with a fully-optioned model costing $50k new, with $40k- $60k as a likely range. Mr. Bostaff will be attending an Allen Organ workshop tomorrow (28th January) and will ask what we could expect as a trade-in value for the old organ. V: Treasurer s Report: Frank Peri: Budget formulation: The budget committee met via and has formulated the budget. The approach is to have a balanced budget by EOY which assumes increased fellowship and a fill for the Choir Director position at mid-year. Last year there was an effort to gain credit for the Choir director expense but revenue decreased which prevented the realization of those savings. The current budget further assumes an increase in revenue from the hall, which should double per current projections. The budget committee working meeting will occur in the coming weeks, but the draft budget will be discussed during the next PC meeting there is no date yet set for a budget committee meeting. VI: Committee Reports: Stewardship: Barry Hendricks: Tessie Savrides reported that 2013 is closed out in the parish management software. Last year there were 212 pledged members pledging a total amount of $180, individuals did not submit pledge forms but contributed $11,931. Mr. Hendricks stressed that in order for parishioners to being considered as members in good standing, they must fill out a pledge card. The budget committee noted that the budget for 2013 assumed pledging of $202k For 2014, the church has received 102 pledges totaling $108,375. Discussion: While members need to pay better attention to tracking their donations, more timely statements could be useful. It is important to remember, however, that there s one person in the office working stewardship, and that sending statements is an expense to the church. Bobby Vidakis proposed forming a committee to process stewardship rather than leaving it entirely to the parish secretary. The management software does allow multi-user access, and this would ease some of the administrative burden. Mr. Hendricks noted that this would not, however, address the second part of the issue, namely the need for a more robust stewardship ministry. The council agreed that bolstering the committee to address advocacy was necessary, and Roger Headrick pledged support to help build advocacy, investigate the issue, and work out a solution. Sacalis Hall: Roger Headrick: The last remaining component of the renovation is the floor which should start in the next day or two (28th-29th January). There will be some added work done with radiator grills, trim, etc., but everything is on schedule. The committee is ad-hoc and should be dissolved once the project is done. The action plan for the committee called for fundraising. In line with that is the idea for a yard sale. The currently -blocked date is 29th-30th March, which while busy, should be manageable. There are other activities going on involving fund raising, but the committee was not charged with long -term marketing or any strategic planning for Sacalis Hall and the committee recommends formally chartering a group to begin developing policies and procedures to better handle and care for the Hall. All these activities will need to be better planned out. There should likely be some food service and internet marketing to get the rentals up. Mr. Headrick would be happy to get such a group started if the council is so inclined, but wants to make sure a proper committee is established. The council intends to charter this group prior to the next general assembly. Mr. Headrick suggests the planning restoration committee submit a plan for the strategic committee at the next PC meeting. A potential option is to talk with the Festival chair to designate a festival-related fundraising activity to support the hall. A plaque to recognize individuals for their donations (i.e. platinum, gold, silver, bronze levels) is an option to help motivate contributions. Denominations could be $5k platinum, $2.5k gold, etc. this may involve a mailing. The council is determining an approach for mailers to provide a progress report (this is what your donation has effected), and to motivate additional donations and help people reach their giving levels for recognition. The project is on-budget, but the fund raising is substantially short (outstanding balance is ~$60k). The next meeting will be a follow-up to the action plan with a goal to pay the note within one year, and a recommendation not to fix the HVAC till the note is paid. Maintenance / Building / Security / Audio: Some items have gone missing from the grounds. The police have been contacted, more to follow. Missions: John Dermanis thanked Zena Mageras for her help on the Port Project and requested a brief. The group met at Tabernacle Baptist Church last week (20th January) and fed ~70 individuals. The food turned out well and the transport was good. The next mission will be at Orcutt Baptist church on 26th February-5th March. Due to the Dinner Theatre and Lent, the committee is shooting for 26th or 28th February which may require some schedule shuffling with other volunteering churches. Ms. Mageras will take this up at the meeting. Zena and Christine Mignogna got the shopping done and got the chicken breasts donated through Sysco. Friday-Saturday morning will work well. Zena is working with Sam s Club and the food bank to get the hamburger meat donated for Meat Loaf. Thanks to Tessis Dakis and Anna Mageras for preparing the dinner. Personnel/By Laws: Personnel: Discussed briefly in closed session Priest s Report: Thanks to everyone for their willingness to serve on the council 7th-9th February retreat for OCF at The College of William and Mary since this is not a long weekend there will be no luncheon on Sunday, though the students will likely come for Church. Sts Constantine and Helen will do lunch on Saturday. 1st-2nd February GOYA Basketball Tournament in Richmond 2nd February AHEPA Superbowl Party The four hotels that Bobby Beck owned in Newport News have been taken over by a company in Philadelphia. They have reaffirmed our use of the hotel parking lot for the festival, and continued good relationship with the parish Father Ambrose has been assigned to Williamsburg and Fr George Passinas will be take over in Norfolk 3rd-5th February Clergy Retreat 17th-18th Philoptochos Officer s Luncheon: Newport News has the biggest Philoptochos chapter in Virginia There continue to be issues with an individual who has at times camped in an RV on/about the church premises. The individual has a long history of instability, issues with the city, and sometimes levies absurd accusations against parishioners/staff. Per the Sherriff, if she (Continued on page 10)

10 The Cross+Roads Page 10 P ARISH COUNCIL MINUTES (Continued from page 9) enters the premises or contacts parishioners the Sherriff s office should be contacted at once to adjudicate. Father thanked John for the prayer, the body for everyone s understanding, and asked the council for their patience as his family deals with this illness. VII: Unfinished Business: VIII: New Business: Church Organ Repair: John Dermanis recommends a second repair quote per usual protocols prior to launching any repairs to ensure that all the repairs are necessary for our use of the organ. The PC will table further repair discussions pending additional information from the second look and a more-fleshed out budget. General Assembly: The next General Assembly will be held on 9th March. Round Table: Alexis Galoozis: Request for more information about the March retreat for the GOYA (22nd-23rd March in Middlesex County). There will be some seminarians from Holy Cross as usual. Once the OCF retreat is done, the church will focus on that retreat. Barry Hendricks: Chris Zambas is planning to have the first Festival meeting on 12th February (core group) followed by a full committee meeting on 26th February. More detail to follow IX: Adjournment: Fr George held the closing prayer at Next meeting 17th February 2014 X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Alexander N. Constantine Secretary FEBRUARY I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: The meeting convened at 1900 by John Dermanis with the opening prayer by Father George Chioros. The following items were discussed, with action items are shown in bold script. Present: Father George Chioros, John Dermanis, Bobby Vidakis, Zena Mageras, Frank Peri, Alex Constantine, Barry Hendricks, Michael Chalkias, Elias Doulgerakis, Alexis Galoozis, Roger Headrick, and Gus Fotiadis. Absent: None Guests/Visitors: Mr. Tom Georges, Dr. Marika Anthony II: Minutes: Bobby Vidakis made a motion to approve 27th January 13 meeting minutes; Seconded by Frank Peri, Passed unanimously III: Correspondence: None IV: Visitor s Comments: Tom Georges: There is a problem outside Sacalis Hall with the wall, namely water running down it and seeping onto the floor and into the double doors. The repair should be fairly easily done with a cement ramp or by digging a trench and packing it with gravel to divert runoff. This will create issues if it s not worked on. Tom Georges: The Parish directory needs to be updated it is very out of date. John Dermanis has been working on updating it with current information it s still reflecting 2007 data. The council expects the finished product to be ready in the next month. John Dermanis noted that the updates to the website and organizational name changes from last meeting have been addressed. Dr. Marika Anthony: Discussed the HWPS s purchase of 200 chairs. They will be used for the first time at the dinner theatre. If the theatre is successful, and there is another bake sale, they should be able to raise the 11k necessary to purchase another 100 chairs. Dr. Anthony further requested that everyone attend the Dinner Theatre. There will be attendees from Norfolk, Richmond, and even Roanoke, and she would like for the Parish Council to attend. The reservations will be due Sunday, 23rd February, with the event held on Sunday, 1st March. Seats are $35 and will be sold via reservation only. Details on the flyer. The chairs will be donated to the church for use as rental items for functions. The council agrees that these chairs will be used for special occasions only so as to prevent their untimely wear and tear. HWPS will not be required to pay for the chair rental on-site for their own formal functions per agreement with the Parish Council. Dr. Anthony noted that the Bodacious Bazaar only netted $200, however the follow-on pastry sale raised $6,000. Dr. Anthony noted the net would have been greater were it not for the standard $500 charged for the use of the kitchen, and requested that the PC consider waiving the fee for HWPA when the proceeds are set to go for the church vs. when the proceeds are sent to the national organization. The Parish Council would like to use this opportunity to remind the community that there is a difference in the usage rules for the kitchen between Church-sanctioned committees and events and clubs which may make selective contributions to the church: The Festival and Church Renovation committees are churchsanctioned, and their activities are governed by the parish. Proceeds go directly into the church s accounts, and these committees are chartered by vote of the General Assembly Clubs and organizations of the church are required, per GA vote, to pay a fee or make a donation. Their proceeds typically go first into their accounts and are disbursed ex-postfacto to the church at the discretion of the club. This is distinct from chartered committees, and the operating costs associated with their functions need to be reimbursed to the church. V: Treasurer s Report: Michael Chalkias: The current numbers show stewardship up $5k more than last year but $5k below budget. Total parishioner revenue is down $10k, and $22k below budget. *No income from the Golf Tourney since it did not occur. Total revenue is $10k less than last year, $40k below budget; total expenses $10k less than last year, $33k below budget. Bottom line is the church stayed the course year-on-year. Regarding the donations, even though the books show donations as being down, the renovation fund, separately bookkept, did drive a large number of donations (~$40k). Financially speaking, the renovated hall provides the largest new source of increased revenue potential. Discussion: The council discussed when and how the Hall note would be rolled into the accounting structure as a liability. If the note is unpaid it would have to be paid out from the general fund. As the goal is still to pay the note off in one year, the council discussed setting a date in the future to merge the accounts to keep fundraising activities for the hall separate and distinct from other donations, and to ensure the community s commitment to paying for the renovations through donations is satisfied. The council also discussed creating a separate report for the General Assembly to present the project ledger and explain the donations received in contrast to the general financial report. VI: Committee Reports: Stewardship: Barry Hendricks presented current pledge figures (111 pledged members, $114,419 pledged as of 17th February). Sacalis Hall: Roger Headrick: The Hall is substantially finished pending the installation of shoe molding, central medallion, and key markings. There are a few outlets to be trimmed out, some caulk, and other finishing touches (2-3% remaining effort). The job is substantially on-budget. Any overages have yielded very good improvements which should pay dividends in terms of reduced power consumption and marketability. The doors could have been painted and fixed, but would not have yielded long-term benefits in terms of security and aesthetics, and rather than fix only the badly-broken doors, the committee decided to replace all of them. Ted Fotiou donated substantial time and money to upgrade the lights, reconfigure the switch pattern, and make energy-efficient changes which will reduce operating expenses. The committee did its best to ensure the project would provide a lasting improvement to the community center. Roger underscored that the committee was very productive, functional, and worked very hard, and wanted to give his thanks to the group. Regarding the finishing touches on the floor, the floor has to be rolled and waxed, and will not be available till next Wednesday, but at this point the floor should be ready. A final call will be made on Monday, 24th February. Regarding setup for the Dinner Theatre, the committee noted that heavy equipment should not be used to position props or lights until the floor is finished. Missions (PORT Program): Zena Mageras: The next meal will be next week (26th-27th February). Meatloaf will be prepared Monday and Wednesday. The ground beef has already been procured from the Food Bank, and will be transported on Wednesday at 1630 for service at Maintenance / Building / Security / Audio: $10,000 in committed contracts secured so far for the use of the hall Personnel/By Laws: Personnel: Discussed briefly in closed session Priest s Report: Thanks to everyone for their willingness to serve on the council 22nd February, 1st March, and 8th March are the Saturdays of Souls, service begins at rd February: Meatballs for Meatfare 2nd March, 5:00 pm: Forgiveness vespers Mondays during lent, 6:00 pm: Compline (Continued on page 11)

11 The Cross+Roads April 2014 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat (Continued from page 10) Wednesdays during Lent: (Varying Times, Check Bulletin): Presanctified Liturgy Friday Nights during Lent: 7:00 pm Salutations General Assembly: please ensure your attendance quorum is 50 members 21st-23rd March GOYA Lenten Retreat at camp Piankatank 30th March Oratorical Festival Looking at securing a bus with the rest of the Virginia Parishes for the kids going to Camp Good Shepard this summer Thanks to the parish council for the flowers sent to Presbytera after her procedure VII: Unfinished Business: Budget: Michael Chalkias presented the draft 2014 budget. The parish council discussed the proposed budget Barry Hendricks moved to present the amended draft at the next General Assembly, seconded by Zena, passed Unanimously Ad-Hoc Committee for Fundraising & Sacalis Hall Marketing Roger Headrick: The most important roles for this committee will be marketing and food service. Mr. Headrick already identified a few parishioners who would make a good team and will solicit additional membership Discussion: This committee should be properly called the Community Center Strategic Planning Committee as it will be setting up the strategic plan and procedures to make the Hall a viable and profitable cost center for the church vice the liability it is now. Intent is to get the right individuals together and lay out a plan. As a chair, the individual chosen should be very interested and have the time available to take it seriously eventually this position should morph to a compensated position vice a purely voluntary one and should help guarantee a profit. This could be done on a level-ofeffort basis or a per-event basis; the committee will have to explore those options. There will also be some zoning/legal considerations which require delicacy to ensure the city is comfortable with the planned use. The pilot committee will include Gus Fotiadis (Chair), with Roger Headrick, John Dermanis, and Alexis Galoozis as members. The pilot committee will report to the Parish Council with a plan at next month s Parish Council meeting. Church Organ Repair Deferred till next meeting after second quote is received Update on Larceny Report filed with NNPD Report filed with NNPD, investigation underway VIII: New Business: General Assembly: The next General Assembly will be held on 9th March. Round Table: Alex Constantine will be unavailable to take minutes during March. Barry Hendricks will fill in during the GA and PC. IX: Adjournment: Fr. George held the closing prayer at Next meeting 17th March 2014 X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Alexander N. Constantine Secretary 1 Tuesday 5:00pm -8:00pm Greek School 2 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy 6:00pm 5:00pm -8:00pm Greek School 7:15 Choir 3Thursday HWPS 6:30pm 4 Friday Akathist Hymn 7:00pm 5 Saturday Baptism 6 Sunday Sunday of St Mary of Egypt Orthros 8:45am Liturgy 10:00am A - 6 month Memorial for Apostolos Baltzis A One year Memorial for Anastasios L. Daniel A 24 year Memorial for Vasikiki Siokis 7 Monday Compline 6:00pm 6:30pm Philoptochos 8 Tuesday 5:00pm -8:00pm Greek School 9 Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy 6:00pm 5:00pm -8:00pm Greek School 7:15pm Choir 12 Saturday Saturday of Lazarus 9:00am Liturgy Communion breakfast Palm Cross Preparation 13 Sunday Palm Sunday Orthros 8:45am Liturgy 10:00am Philoptochos Palm Sunday Luncheon 7:00pm Nymfios Service 14 Monday Holy Monday 7:00pm Nymfios Service 15 Tuesday Holy Tuesday 7:00pm Nymfios Service 16 Wednesday Holy Wednesday Page 11 10:00am Presanctified 7:00pm Holy Unction 17 Thursday Holy Thursday 7:00 am Divine Liturgy 7:00pm Twelve Gospels 18 Friday Holy Friday 9:00am The Great Hours 3:00pm Vespers of the Unnailing from the Holy Cross 7:00pm Procession of the Epitafio 19 Saturday Holy Saturday 8:00am Divine Liturgy 11:00pm The Resurrection (Pascha) 20 Sunday GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA 11:00am Agape Vespers DOP Children s Egg Hunt 21 Monday 7:00pm Parish Council 22 Tuesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School 23 Wednesday Saint George 9:00am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School 7:15 Choir 24 Thursday 6:30pm DOP/Ahepa 25 Friday Theotokos of the Life-Giving Font 9:00am Orthros 10:00am Divine Liturgy 27 Sunday Sunday of Thomas 8:45 Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy Baptism 29 Tuesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School 30 Wednesday 5:00pm 8:00pm Greek School 7:15pm Choir

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 9:00 a.m. Matins 10:00 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.