Annunciation EPISTLE. Featured Activities this Month. Construction Begins. Financial Seminars. The

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1 The EPISTLE May 2018 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 573 N Highland Street Memphis, TN Contact us at: (901) phone (901) fax annunciationmemphis@gmail.com Sunday Services: Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Church Office Hours: Mon Thurs 8:30 am 4:30 pm Friday 8:30 am 12:30 pm Parish Directories Available Now Church Office The new directory is ready and available on Sundays in Cotros Hall, or in the Church Office during business hours. Altar Clear Out Day Sunday, April 29 th After liturgy In preparation for the renovation of the sanctuary, we will be clearing out the Altar following Liturgy on April 29 th. Services will continue to take place from the Soleas on Sundays during the renovation. National Clergy-Laity July 1 st July 5 th Boston, MA The 44 th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress will be at the Marriott Copley Place. Our Parish may send four representatives to participate in this important meeting. Featured Activities this Month Memphis Greek Festival Friday, May 11 th & Saturday, May 12 th, 11am-8pm Church Grounds This is our 60th Year! The Pre-Festival Tickets are available on Sundays in Cotros Hall and in the Church Office during the week. All tickets must be paid in advance. We accept Cash or Check only and the cost is $15/ticket. These make GREAT GIFTS for family, friends, coworkers, teachers! Festival Posters & Postcards are available at the Festival Table in Cotros Hall. Please take some and ask to put at the places you visit. Our Festival won t work without YOU! We need volunteers to help set up & to work in the various areas of our Festival for Friday & Saturday! To volunteer, please sign up online at or see Kathy Zambelis on Sundays in Cotros Hall. Graduation Sunday Sunday, May 20 th Church Sanctuary On this Sunday we honor our high school and college graduates. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our young people as they move on to the next phase of their lives. Construction Begins Sanctuary Renovation April 29 th May 25 th Church Sanctuary The work on our Church Sanctuary begins this Sunday, and is expected to be completed in about a month. During this time, services will take place in the Sanctuary, but from the soleas, as the Altar will be blocked off. Updates will be sent out regularly so that all may be kept up to date on the progress. Financial Seminars Sundays, May 20 th & May 27 th Parish Library May 20 The social side of retirement (45 min)/ Social Security Retirement Benefits and Your Future May 27 Long Term Care Insurance Seminar (45 min)

2 Hierarchs of the Parish Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople Archbishop Elder Demetrios of America Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit Parish Clergy Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Parish Priest Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Pastor Emeritus Office Personnel Erin Bobbitt de Padilla, Office Assistant Parish Council Ted Poplos President John Kay Vice President Endy Carter Secretary Naji Nassif Treasurer Chris Apalodimas Demie Bitinis Madeleine Donnelly Bill Joyner Diane Kavaleras Vasili Semos Harry Sinis Music Ministry Choir Director & Organist...DoraThea Barre Chanter Director.Andrew Horvath Youth Ministries Acolytes..Daniel Shipman Sunday School Director..Anna Paris Pre-K/K.. Anna Paris, Naji Nassif 1-2 Kristine Wagner, Christina George Stephanie Johnson, Pannay Guigley Renee Graves, Alexia Loughman 7-8. Ken Hoover, Gabriella Stroplos Ted Poplos, Elizabeth Hawkins, Chris Apalodimas, and Brian Berretta GOYA Coordinators..Andrew & Tina Douglas JOY Coordinator.....Kellye Farris Oratorical Festival...Kathy Zambelis Athenian Dance Troupe Andrew & Leah Horvath Christmas Program Ken Hoover St. Nicholas Summer Camp Father Simon Young Adult Ministries Young Adult League..Alexis Moore Ole Miss..Blaise Brackett Seniors Ministries Young at Heart Kathy Zambelis Elpis Philoptochos President..Elizabeth Hawkins Vice President...Marianthe Pilcher Secretary..Joanne Gikas Treasurer.Anne Schmitt Committee Leaders: Altar Committee..Laura Couloubaritsis Cookbook Elaine Otto Elpis Bookstore.Angela Tobias & Connie Apalodimas Food Pantry.Anna Paris Makaria Coordinator Marianthe Pilcher More Than a Meal.Cyndi Detty Prayer Circle Luane Semos Sunshine Committee.Zoe Futris Visitation Committee..Kristine Wagner Memphis Greek Festival Festival Director..Todd Bagatelas Greek Language Greek School Teacher Despina Karas Adult Greek Class Father Nicholas Vieron Organizations AHEPA..John Kay DOP..Phani Mitchell Parish Library Docent..Billy Benson

3 A Vibrant Time in the Parish Christ is Risen! Χριστο ς Ανε στη! Christos Voskrese! Al Maseeh Qam! Hristus A Inviat! The months of April and May are an exciting time for our Parish. We have several major events and accomplishments to celebrate, all of which have happened because of your support and participation. I give thanks to God for all of you! Holy Week We had a beautiful and blessed Holy Week and Pascha. Many thanks to all the people who contributed to making it a true joy in celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Debt Free The final payment has been made to the mortgage for the property on Highway 64, making our Parish DEBT FREE for the first time in more than 20 years! The intention at this point is to sell the property when a viable offer is presented. Movie Becoming Truly Human, which we sponsored jointly with St. John s and St. George s was a success beyond what we could have anticipated. The first two shows were sold out, and the third one is almost sold out. In all, more than 400 people attended, making this a very effective outreach ministry. Parish Directory The new directory is available on Sundays and in the Church Office. This will be something we can update on a regular basis. Please pick one up and take a look at the make-up of our Parish. We are accepting a recommended donation of $5 to help offset the costs, but this is not obligatory. Sanctuary Renovation As of this writing, the items for the renovation were on a ship off the coast of Portugal with an anticipated arrival date of May 1st to Savannah, Georgia, and May 7th in Memphis. The work will begin on Monday, April 30th with the work expected to be completed the last week of May. As part of the project we will be re-laying the tile in the Altar area, and replacing the lighting with LED lights. Please come help us prepare the church for this project on Sunday, April 29th. Greek Festival The festival is Friday, May 11th and Saturday, May 12th. This wonderful event is perhaps our best opportunity to share our Faith, and showcase the impact our Parish has had on the Memphis community. With YOUR HELP we can make this 60th Anniversary Celebration the best festival yet! Pastoral Assistant The Parish Council is currently searching for a pastoral assistant. This position was approved at the last Parish Assembly, and this person will assist with current ministries, and create new ministries is the Parish. We will update you as we have more information on filling the position. The whole earth is a living icon of the face of God I do not worship matter. I worship the Creator of matter who became matter for my sake, who will to take His abode in matter, who worked out my salvation through matter. Never will I cease honoring the matter which wrought my salvation! I honor it, but not as God. Because of this I salute all remaining matter with reverence, because God has filled it with His grace and power. Through it my salvation has come to me. ~ Saint John of Damascus On the Holy Images With Love in our Risen Lord, Rev. Father Simon Thomas Parish Priest

4 Holy Week Volunteers Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and talents to make Holy Week & Pascha such a wonderful experience this year! While we endeavor to include everyone, if we have mistakenly left your name off any of these lists, please contact us in the Church Office. Acolytes- Lee Couloubaritsis, Austin Detty, Jackson Detty, John Donnelly Nick Douglas, John Eramo, Luke Farris, Max Graves, Jonathan Holland, Vasili Johnson, Jack Shipman, Abiel Tesfazion, Demetri Thomas, David Wassef Adults: Ted Poplos, Daniel Shipman, Paul Vieron Chanters- Andrew Horvath Leader Stephanie Poplos, DoraThea Barre, Bill Gikas, Vicki Hoover, David Mynihan, Nicholas Nelson, Evangelia Panas, Constance Poplos, Nicholas Poplos, Paul Vieron, and David Wassef Choir Members DoraThea Barre Director Youth: Sophia Douglas, Katherine Hoover, Zoe Johnson, Hannah Morris, Nylah Nassif, Rachel Semos, Elpinike Thomas, Megan Wassef Adults: Zoe Anaston, Demie Bitinis, Bill Gikas, Ken Hoover, Vicki Hoover, John Kay, Maria Moore, Jennifer Morris, Nicholas Poplos, Stephanie Poplos, Chrysanthe Preza, Luane Semos, Georgia Smith, Theo Vergos, and Kathy Zambelis Readers- Stephanie Poplos - Coordinator Billy Benson, Endy Carter, Lee Couloubaritsis, Austin Detty, Jackson Detty, Nicholas Douglas, Sophia Douglas, Katherine Hoover, Vicki Hoover, Leah Horvath, Alexis Moore, Maria Moore, Tommy Moore, Nicholas Nelson, Sterling Owen, Trish Owen, Evangelia Panos, Constance Poplos, Stephanie Poplos, Luane Semos, Rachel Semos, Elpinike Thomas, Paul Vieron, David Wassef, and Kathy Zambelis Pallbearers- Dimitri Aleckos, Johnny Donnelly, Tommy Moore, Stephan Osborn, Demetri Papastefan, Andrew Tobias and Jon Wells Agape Vespers Readers- Father Simon Greek Sophie Sousoulos Latin Alexandra Pappas Italian Cristina Hunter Romanian Lucy Nassif Spanish Kathy Zambelis English Nayla Nassif French Samya Louza Arabic Asmelash Ogbasian Tigrinya Chrysanthe Preza Icelandic Despina Karas Modern Greek

5 President s Message May 2018 Christ is Risen! Truly He Has Risen! I hope and pray that you all had a very blessed Pascha. I think this year went very well and we as a community should be thankful for all the many volunteers that work behind the scenes (so to speak) to make it happen. Fr. Simon, I hope that you have caught up on your rest. It was a long week with many services. The chanters and readers this year were once again fantastic. The Acolytes were troopers and for the first time in many years, none of the boys fell asleep during the Resurrection. The ladies that decorate the tomb of Christ out did themselves this year. And who can t smile at the flower girls as they circle the tomb during the funeral. The choir as usual was fantastic. Eggs were dyed and distributed. Two different chefs prepared the meals for breaking the fast after the Resurrection and after the Agape Vespers. And speaking of the Agape Vespers, there were a few new languages this year. So, as you can see, Pascha doesn t just happen. There are many tasks and moving parts. I purposely did not name anyone, because if I tried, this message would be several pages long. I think we all know who did the hard work, so if you see them, tell them thanks for a job well done. I hope that next year you will consider joining this amazing group of volunteers. Now that Pascha preparation is over for another year, we can turn our attention to the next 2 large tasks. On April 29 th, please bring a change of clothes to help empty out everything that is behind the Altar and in the vesting room as we prepare for demolition of the current icon screen to make way for the new one that is currently loaded on a ship crossing the ocean. Yes, it is fast approaching, and we need YOU. If we have a lot of hands, the job will be completed quickly. On May 11 and 12 we host about 6000 folks at the Greek Festival. If you have not yet signed up to help, please do so. Again, we need YOU. This event is a tremendous logistical exercise, with too many moving parts and unknown variables. If you see Todd, ask him how you can help. He would greatly appreciate the assistance. Congratulations to all of our graduates. For those graduating High School, this is a milestone in your education journey. You have not finished but are ready to begin a new chapter as you head off to college to continue your learning and development as young men and women. If you are a college graduate you are also closing a chapter and beginning a new one. As you leave this chapter for more education or employment, remember that your church family is very proud of you and will always be there to support you. Please remember to let the office know what your is so that you can continue to get the news from home. Parents, to you I say, Job well done. I know that without your constant guidance, support and sometimes gentle or not so gentle prodding, that our young adults are moving on to bigger and better things. I look forward to seeing you all on April 29 th after Liturgy and again on the weekend of May 11 and 12. Oh yeah, I do look forward to seeing you other times as well. In His Service Ted Poplos April Notices 40 Day Memorials: Dorothy Paris, April 22nd Baptisms: Leyla Matei, April 14th, daughter of Florin & Gladia, Godmother is Dorina Damsa Roxanna Sabghi, April 21st, Godmother is Margaret Ann Denton Weddings: Spero Peters & Elena Mosby, April 28th Deaths: Athanasios (Tom) Stavros Grammas, April 6, father of Debbie Dye

6 Annunciation Prayer List Pray for one another, that you may be healed (James 5:16). Prayer is an important resource for those who are in need. Please contact Father Simon or the Church Office to add/remove someone from the list. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Archbishop Demetrios of America Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit Father Simon & Presvytera Stephanie and children Father Nicholas & family Parishioners of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Metropolitan Paul (Yazge) of Aleppo Archbishop Youhanna Ibrahim (Syriac) of Aleppo Nick, Helen, Alec, Maria, Zoe, Ronnie, Jeffrey, Toni, Sandy, Cornelia, Kosta, George, Sarantos, Alex, Nicholas, Vicki, Marcy Volunteers for May Acolytes: Lee Couloubaritsis Austin Detty Jackson Detty John Donnelly Nick Douglas John Eramo Luke Farris Max Graves Jonathan Holland Vasili Johnson Jonathan Mehrotra Eli Morris Jack Shipman Abiel Tesfazion Demetri Thomas David Wassef Epistle Readers: May 6: Maria Moore May 13: Richard Tobias Prosphoro Makers: Enosis Touliatos May 20: Kathy Zambelis May 27: Angela Tobias Ushers: May 6 Team 2: Naji Nassif, Diane Kavelaras, Demie Bitinis May 13 Team 3: Chris Apalodiams, John Kay & Harry Sinis May 20 Team 4: Endy Carter, Vasili Semos & Ted Poplos May 27 Team 1: Madeleine Donnelly & Bill Joyner Greeters: Coffee Fellowship Hosts: May 6: Cookout for Pre-Pack Workers May 13: Post Festival Food Sales May 20: hosted by Elpis & DOP to honor our 2018 Graduates May 27: OPEN

7 Saint Christopher the Martyr May 9 th The Holy Martyr Christopher lived during the third century and suffered about the year 250, during the reign of the emperor Decius. There are various accounts of his life and miracles, and he is widely venerated throughout the world. Saint Christopher is especially venerated in Italy, where people pray to him in times of contagious diseases. There are various suggestions about his descent. Some historians believe that he was descended from the Canaanites, while others say from the Cynoscephalae of Thessaly. Saint Christopher was a man of great stature and unusual strength. According to tradition, Saint Christopher was very handsome, but wishing to avoid temptation for himself and others, he asked the Lord to give him an unattractive face, which was done. Before Baptism he was named Reprebus [Reprobate] because of his disfigured appearance. Even before Baptism, Reprebus confessed his faith in Christ and denounced those who persecuted Christians. Consequently, a certain Bacchus gave him a beating, which he endured with humility. Because of his renowned strength, 200 soldiers were assigned to bring him before the emperor Decius. Reprebus submitted without resistance. Several miracles occurred along the way; a dry stick blossomed in the Saint s hand, loaves of bread were multiplied through his prayers, and the travelers had no lack thereof. This is similar to the multiplication of loaves in the wilderness by the Savior. The soldiers surrounding Reprebus were astonished at these miracles. They came to believe in Christ and they were baptized along with Reprebus by Saint Babylus of Antioch. Christopher once made a vow to serve the greatest king in the world, so he first offered to serve the local king. Seeing that the king feared the devil, Christopher thought he would leave the king to serve Satan. Learning that the devil feared Christ, Christopher went in search of Him. Saint Babylas of Antioch told him that he could best serve Christ by doing well the task for which he was best suited. Therefore, he became a ferryman, carrying people across a river on his shoulders. One stormy night, Christopher carried a Child Who insisted on being taken across at that very moment. With every step Christopher took, the Child seemed to become heavier. Halfway across the stream, Christopher felt that his strength would give out, and that he and the Child would be drowned in the river. As they reached the other side, the Child told him that he had just carried all the sins of the world on his shoulders. Then He ordered Christopher to plant his walking stick in the ground. As he did so, the stick grew into a giant tree. Then he recognized Christ, the King Whom he had vowed to serve. Saint Christopher was brought before the Emperor, who tried to make him renounce Christ, not by force but by cunning. He summoned two profligate women, Kallinike and Aquilina, and commanded them to persuade Christopher to deny Christ, and to offer sacrifice to idols. Instead, the women were converted to Christ by Saint Christopher. When they returned to the emperor, they declared themselves to be Christians. Therefore, they were subjected to fierce beatings, and so they received the crown of martyrdom. Decius also sentenced to execution the soldiers who had been sent after Saint Christopher, but who now believed in Christ. The emperor ordered that the martyr be thrown into a red-hot metal box. Saint Christopher, however, did not experience any suffering and he remained unharmed. After many fierce torments they finally beheaded the martyr with a sword. This occurred in the year 250 in Lycia. By his miracles the holy Martyr Christopher converted as many as 50 thousand pagans to Christ, as Saint Ambrose of Milan testifies. The relics of Saint Christopher were later transferred to Toledo (Spain), and still later to the abbey of St. Denis in France. In Greece, many churches place the icon of Saint Christopher at the entrance so that people can see it as they enter and leave the building. There is a rhyming couplet in Greek which says, When you see Christopher, you can walk in safety. This reflects the belief that whoever gazes upon the icon of Saint Christopher will not meet with sudden or accidental death that day. The name Christopher means Christ-bearer. This can refer to the Saint carrying the Savior across the river, and it may also refer to St Christopher bearing Christ within himself.

8 Liturgical Calendar for May Tuesday, May 1st Orthros 6:00 pm Divine Liturgy 7:00 pm Sunday, May 6th, Sunday of the Samaritan Woman Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Monday, May 7th St. John Feast Day Liturgy 6:00 pm Sunday, May 13th, Sunday of the Blind Man, Mother s Day Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Thursday, May 17th, Feast of the Ascension Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Sunday, May 20th, Fathers of the first Ecumenical Council Graduation Sunday Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Monday, May 21st, Feast of Saints Constantine & Helen Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Saturday, May 26th, Saturday of Souls Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Sunday, May 27th, Pentecost Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Visitation Committee May: Demie Bitinis, Tricia Grantham, Emily Capadalis Love, Georgia Karris June: Despina Karas & Angela Tobias July: Maria Moore & Diane Kavelaras August: NEED VOLUNTEERS September: Susanna Peters & Cathe Skefos October: Sophie Theodore & Kristine Wagner November: Loretta Taras & Tasia Vergos December: Anastasia Terranova & Athena Jamison April: Cary Chiungos & Mary Katherine Taras The following members of our parish family have requested visitation. For address and/or contact information please check your parish directory or contact the Church Office. Alec Collis Maria Hetos Stella Nichols Kosta Taras Please contact Kristine Wagner if you would like to volunteer to be on the Visitation Committee, a ministry of the Elpis Philoptochos. January: Nancy Tashie, Jan Futris & Tina Liollio February: Vicki Hoover & Family March: Linda Nichols, Anne Schmitt, & Debi Bookas

9 Parish Ministries Philoptochos, Elpis Chapter #7041 May, 2018 Xristos Anesti, my friends! Like the entire parish, we have had a very busy month. Most importantly, we celebrated our Christ s crucifixion and resurrection. Many thanks to our cadre of our helpers: To the Touliatos family for cooking for the Lenten lecture on March 28 th Thanks to Dennis Patrikios for cooking our Palm Sunday meal, Joy Touliatos for the dessert, and Demie Bitnis & Cyndi Detty for their beautiful work decorating the tables. Joy Touliatos and Joanne Gikas once again took the helm of the candle sales for Pascha and Holy Friday, and we are truly thankful Those who cooked and served for MTAM To the altar committee for working so hard cleaning, preparing and decorating the church. Special gratitude for Laura Couloubaritsis, Demie Bitnis, Marianthe Pilcher, Cyndi Detty & Renee Graves. Anna Paris who has chaired our food pantry collection. She took the items to Highland Heights United Methodist Church. We also collected toiletry items to take to the pantry at St. John s Orthodox Church. We are offering a special opportunity to celebrate our community cookbook, It s Greek to Me! Share the treasured recipes of our ethnic heritage with family and friends Support the many charities and community projects of the Elpis Philoptochos Society through our fundraiser See the attached flyer for more details. Both Elpis and Daughters of Penelope are hosting coffee hour to honor our graduates on Sunday, May 20 th. Stay tuned for details! We will serve food at More Than A Meal on Sunday, May 20 th. The Metropolis of Detroit Philoptochos needs your help with a royal flair! Since 2009, we have offered assistance throughout the Metropolis through "The Partners in Philanthropy Fund and The Emergency Fund. The Partners Fund offers short-term assistance and The Emergency Fund helps victims of catastrophic natural disasters worldwide. In an effort to continue funding these two important charities, the Metropolis Philoptochos has a royal appeal our spring fundraiser! A Royal Tea is a non-attendance event. Since there is no venue or meal, all funds raised will be distributed. Through discretion, courtesy, and compassion, this charitable work of the Philoptochos provides love and hope to those experiencing crises in their lives. Please join us as we marvel at the royal wedding celebration by sharing your love and blessings with the gift of a charitable donation. Donating through PayPal is quick and easy by visiting the Metropolis of Detroit Philoptochos web page at or Make checks payable to The Metropolis of Detroit Philoptochos (memo: Royal Tea) send to: Metropolis of Detroit Philoptochos Attn: Debbie George 2560 Crooks Rd. Troy, Michigan 48084

10 It s Greek to me! Cookbook 4 th Edition $20.00 Visit the cookbook table April 29 & May 6 during coffee hour. Celebrate our wonderful cookbook! * Add the newly revised 4 th edition of It s Greek to Me! to your cookbook shelf * Share the treasured recipes of our ethnic heritage with family and friends * Support the many charities and community projects of the Elpis Philoptochos Society through our fundraiser Thank you! Makes a great Mother s Day/Graduation/Wedding gift!

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12 Young at Heart YOUNG AT HEART LUAU LUNCHEON - Please join this FUN group for our annual Luau on Tuesday, May 22nd at 11:30 am! Come dressed in your favorite Luau outfit and you may win a door prize!! This will be our last gathering until Fall - so you don't want to miss it! Tell you church friends in their 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 + to join us!! YOUNG AT HEART LUAU LUNCHEON AND ENTERTAINMENT TUESDAY, MAY 22nd 11:30 am in COTROS HALL Come enjoy a delicious LUAU luncheon and Entertainment! Come dressed in your BEST Hawaiian attire and you may win a door prize! This will be our last gathering until the Fall, so don t miss out on the fun!

13 Book Review by Billy Benson Know the Faith A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers by Father Michael Shanbour Ancient Faith Publishing One of the great blessings that we have today in America is the amount of Orthodox books available to us. The past 25 years have given us quite a few choices to pick from concerning the basics of Orthodoxy. When this book was first suggested to me, my initial thought was why would we need another book on this subject when we have so many already to choose from? Since I respected the opinion of the dear one who suggested this book as a worthwhile read, I decided to take a look and see what it may have to offer that would benefit both inquirers and the already Orthodox. One of the first things I often check when reading a new author is who he is and what his background is. I was a little surprised to find the author had grown up in the Orthodox Faith. It seems more often than not most of the contemporary basics books written here in America are authored by those who came into the Orthodox Faith from other faith traditions. This being a book from a viewpoint different than of those it did create an interest in seeing what perspective the author could offer the reader. The topics are arranged in a beautifully systematic way, allowing the reader to build a foundation of understanding before going on to the next topic. One of the more interesting aspects of this book is that Father Michael uses the conversion of Cornelius, found in the Acts of the Apostles, to relay the faith in a format that may be familiar to many of us. He does this to add flesh to the message rather than just provide information. He begins by discussing the Church, because without an historical and orthodox understanding, we will not grasp the essence of what the true faith is all about. His background as a parish priest provides the needed prospective of how to help those of us who have been immersed in a western evangelical church view to see how much had been lost over the centuries. The background and story of Cornelius isn t too different from ours today. He grew up in a society not only secular, but also one with great religiosity. His conversion lead him to see the faith from a Eucharistically centered understanding, a view which is in stark contrast to the modernism that has infiltrated so much of today s Christianity. As the reader delves into each topic, the usual comparison to common protestant understanding is presented in a thoughtful and respectful way, yet it is clear in showing what has been lost. He provides clear and concise patristic quotes and scripture in such a manner that by the time it is read, the reader has built a foundation to understand the next topic. The book takes us from the previously mentioned Orthodox understanding of the Church, through other Orthodox understandings including that of Grace, Tradition, Salvation, Justification, Worship and Liturgical life. He shows how difficult understanding these subjects can be if read from the viewpoint of non- Orthodox faith traditions. My own journey to Orthodoxy can attest to the difficulty of attempting to understand the Orthodox Faith without redefining the very vocabulary in use. The easy reading nature of the book allows one to see the often stark contrast of meaning in words used by both Orthodox and non-orthodox. By the time one finishes this book, the reader has been given a firm foundation. They will also come to understand the liturgical cycle of the church and the importance of centering one s very faith around it, and living our lives through the Eucharist. I highly suggest this book for those who are serious about learning about Orthodoxy. It would be a fine book for those who are seeking an understanding of the Orthodox Faith, no matter their religious background. It would also be a great book for use in Sunday School and Basics of Orthodoxy classes. We have a copy in the Library available for checkout. Father Michael Shanbour

14 YOUNG ADULT LEAGUE Since 2013, we have been on the forefront of creating and shaping Christ-centered, Kingdom-oriented ministry that's been helping generations of Orthodox Christians around the world. Our Mission Y 2 AM helps introduce youth and young adults to Christ. Y 2 AM inspires them to live out their relationship with the Lord and His Church on a daily basis. We are a ministry team of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Take some time and listen to our Pop Culture Coffee Hour Podcasts at podcasts/popculture. Steven Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez talk about pop culture, theology, and whatever else is on their minds. They might even make you laugh. Maybe. Pop Culture Coffee Hour is a joint production of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Ancient Faith Radio. Other Y 2 AM great resources: The YouTube Channel series: The Trench The Ladder: a Blog Please check back here and on the YAL Memphis Facebook Page for future events for our Young Adults IONIAN VILLAGE CAMP Ionian Village is more than just a summer camp. It is an invitation to the youth of our Archdiocese to closely encounter our Orthodox faith and Hellenic heritage, all while surrounded by their peers and our highly qualified staff. Ultimately, Ionian Village is an invitation to change the way our youth live as Greek Orthodox Christians in this world. The Ionian Village summer camping program consists of two sessions, with dates carefully selected to allow for maximum participation across the Archdiocese. Each summer camping session is open to young people currently in grade 9 through grade 12. Our IVNext program is open to young adults ages 19 to 24 and offers a foray into our heritage and faith in a smaller group setting, while exploring the crucial next steps that each young adult will take. All of our Ionian Village programs have experienced tremendous growth over the past few years and space is limited, so please encourage families to register their children early, as we anticipate sold out programs this summer. Registration begins March 1 st at 12:00pm EST. Ionian Village rejuvenates our young people in their faith, allowing them to return to each of our parishes enlightened with true Orthodox Christian love. I do hope to see some young people from your parish this summer at camp!

15 YOUTH MINISTRIES Sunday School The Sunday School students were very busy during Holy Week. On Lazarus Saturday, they helped make palms for Palm Sunday. On Holy Friday, Presvytera Stephanie discussed with the children about the symbolism of the cross. After this activity, they painted their own crosses to take home to share with their families. Thank you for all the parents who came and helped with this event. Later that night, the myrrh-bearing girls did an excellent job helping with the service. On Easter Sunday with the help of the GOYA, we had our annual Easter Egg hunt. Reminder to parents: Our last day of Sunday School was April 29th this year in preparation for the festival. Sunday School registration for fall will be held at the beginning of August. Teachers Pre-K /KK Anna Paris, Naji Nassif 1st/2nd Kristine Wagner, Christina George 3rd/4th Stephanie Johnson, Pannay Guigley 5th/6th Renee Graves, Alexia Loughman 7th/8th Ken Hoover, Gabriella Stroplos 9th-12th Ted Poplos, Elizabeth Hawkins, Chris Apalodimas, and Brian Berretta Note from Father Simon: It is important that the children and their teachers receive Holy Communion first, so they may have as much time as possible to learn about our precious Faith. Parents, since we are now saying the Prayers Before Holy Communion together, please wait until these prayers have been completed before taking your children to the Narthex to line them up for Holy Communion. Once our youth have received, the ushers will dismiss the faithful row by row. Thank you for your assistance!

16 HOPE/JOY Welcome to all the HOPE/OY families at Annunciation! HOPE & JOY are the children s ministries of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. HOPE is the ministry for the Kindergarten through 2nd grade children, & JOY, the Junior Orthodox Youth, is the ministry for the 3rd through 6th grade children. Since HOPE & JOY are ministries, the programs reflect the Orthodox Christian Faith, Tradition and Life. The JOY Kids put in a lot of work on Lazarus Saturday when they helped fold over 200 palm crosses for Palm Sunday. On Holy Friday many of the children attended an informative lesson and an artsy cross painting project led by Presvytera Stephanie and Anna Paris. Our families enjoyed an outing together to the Dixon Gardens and Gallery in April as well. On Saturday, May 19th, JOY families are invited to attend a get together at Eric & Anne Schmitt s home at 8511 Sherman Oaks Drive, Germantown, TN We will gather at 3:00 pm and eat at 5:00 pm. We are hoping for nice weather so that the kids can play outside with bubbles and chald and paint some rocks. Each family is asked to bring either a side dish or dessert. We have set up a sign up genius for the headcount and food. go/9040f4caba62ea64-cookout. Here is the link for that: If anyone has any other outdoor activities they d like to bring for the kids to use, you are encourages to do so. Thanks to Anne & Eric for hosting this for the JOY group! Kellye Farris ATHENIAN DANCE TROUPE PRACTICE SCHEDULE Saturday, May 5: 9:00 am 12:00 Noon Sunday, May 6: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm (mandatory for Greek Festival Performance) Wednesday, May 9: Dress Rehearsal 4:00 pm 7:00 pm (mandatory for Festival Performance) Friday, May 11: Greek Festival Performance 6:00 pm Saturday, May 12: Greek Festival Performances 12:00 Noon & 6:00 pm

17 What s happening in GOYA? GOYA is open to all youth in grades 6 th through 12 th. We focus on fellowship, service, and how to bring our Orthodox teachings into our daily life. All are welcome! May Activities Festival Friday, May 11 & Saturday, May 12 SIGN UP TO WORK AT THE GOYA BOOTH GOYA will be sponsoring the soft serve ice cream booth. All GOYAns are asked to sign up to work. Please visit the online sign-up at: Everyone s help is needed! GOYA Meeting - May 20 GOYA Meeting and More than a Meal Hope to see you there! March/April Recap March 30 th We had a great time at our annual Lenten Lock in. Thanks to Mr. Semos and Mrs. Hoover to helped chaperone! Thank you to all of the GOYAns who participated in the Holy Week services. Our organization was well represented with altar boys, chanters, readers, and choir members. Well done! Congratulations to Rachel Semos, Sophia Douglas and Nick Douglas for advancing to the Metropolis Oratorical Festival! If you are not on our list please let us know! Adoug867@yahoo.com. Mr. Andrew, Ms. Tina, Mr. Demetri

18 COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AHEPA/MEN S GROUP Welcome to AHEPA! AHEPA Mission statement: To promote the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, integrity, and family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism. On Sunday, June 17th, AHEPA will host its annual scholarship fundraising breakfast for Father s Day. Menu is scrambled eggs, pancakes and sausage. Donations will be accepted. What a great way to treat dad on his day! DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE May 2018 Red dyed Easter Eggs using yellow onion skins!!!! XRISTOS ANESTI The Daughters of Penelope, was founded in1929, in San Francisco, California. It was the realization of Alexandra Apostolides Sonenfeld s dream to create a women s organization comparable to her husband s membership in AHEPA. The Daughters is the women s organization of AHEPA. We share our Mission Statement: To promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family & Individual Excellence. My goodness, here we are now into May. Yes, the Festival is almost here May 11 and 12. We hope all of you have had the opportunity to sign up to volunteer the more hands there are to help, the easier it is on everyone. Besides, it is actually lots of fun. In a few weeks we will be having graduation Sunday for Sunday School and honoring our graduates for high school and college. Our Easter Bake Sale was very successful, thank you to all our parishioners. We even added adorable Easter Baskets. Everything was sold out!!! A huge THANK YOU to all. Our Vicki Hoover and Julia Couloubaritsis at Lester Center delivering their Easter Baskets from the Daughters. A tradition we have followed for 28 years!!! We are winding our year down. We will be having our meetings, to nominate officers and then elect our officers for the next year (which will begin in Aug/Sep).

19 PARISH NEWS & EVENTS GRADUATION SUNDAY MAY 20th On Sunday, May 20 we will be honoring our High school & College Graduates. Please send in your information along with a photo for our Graduation Program no later than Wednesday, May 9th to Erin at: annunnunciationmemphis@gmail.com and copy Kathy Zambelis at kzambelis@gmail.com. Information should include: 1) Name of graduate 2) Parent's names 3) Name of school 4) Any notes of interest (recognitions, awards, area of study, future plans, and future school attending, etc). A reception will be held in honor of the Graduates following the ceremony hosted by Philoptochos and Daughters of Penelope. We look forward in honoring your graduate, so please send your information in on time! ELPIS BOOKSTORE Stop by the bookstore for your upcoming graduation gifts! We offer a wide selection of books, icons, jewelry, and gifts for that someone special in your life! All bookstore proceeds benefit the Elpis Scholarship fund. ANNUNCIATION AT THE MOVIES Annunciation, along with St. John & St. George, hosted the Becoming Truly Human documentary April at the Malco Theatres. We had a wonderful turnout and would like to thank the Tashie family & the Malco Theatres for all of their support.

20 FINANCIAL SEMINARS- THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FINANCIAL WELL-BEING A series offered by Maria Popa, MBA and Financial Advisor. April 22, 2018 Planning for retirement/ Sources of retirement income ( 1 hr) * Envision your retirement * Build your retirement strategy * Sources of retirement income * Building your nest egg * Retirement risks to consider Sources of retirement income * 401Ks * IRAs (Traditional and Roth) * Social security * Annuities * Other sources of income * Everybody should participate regardless the age April 29,2018 Building your retirement income now strategy/ Building your retirement income later strategy (1 hr) * Longevity * Inflation * Healthcare costs * Housing * Market * Excessive withdrawals * Everybody should participate regardless the age May 20, 2018 The social side of retirement (45 min)/ Social Security Retirement Benefits and Your Future * History, background, and a few fun facts * The future of social security * Your social security retirement benefits * Making a decision that's right for you May 27, 2018 Long Term Care Insurance Seminar (45 min) a. What is the LTC insurance 1. How Long Term Care is defined 2. When and where LTC insurance can be used 3. The benefits of LTC insurance

21 2018 MEMPHIS GREEK FESTIVAL Our 60th Annual Memphis Greek Festival will be held on Friday & Saturday, May 11th & 12th. PRE-FESTIVAL TICKET SALES & POSTERS/POSTCARDS The Pre-Festival Tickets are available on Sundays in Cotros Hall and in the office during the week. All tickets must be paid in advance. We accept Cash or Check only and the cost is $15/ticket. These make GREAT GIFTS for family, friends, co-workers, teachers! Festival Posters & Postcards are available at the Festival Table in Cotros Hall. Please take some and ask to put at the places you visit. WORKSHOP SCHEDULE Please take the time to look over the workshops & find a place to volunteer. Pre-Pack Assembly: Sunday, May 6th, 12:00 Noon - 4:00 pm & Monday, May 7th, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Chicken Prep: Wednesday, May 9th, 8:00 am -1:00 pm Meat Skewering: Wednesday, May 9th, 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm Galaktoboureko Assembly: Thursday, May 10th, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm ********* Point of Sale Training: Monday - Thursday, May 7th - May 10th, Times to be advised If you are heading up a workshop and haven t scheduled your time, please contact the office ASAP as space in the kitchen is filling up. VOLUNTEER SIGN UP Our Festival won t work without YOU! We need volunteers to help set up & to work in the various areas of our Festival for Friday & Saturday! To volunteer, please sign up online at bit.ly/2gb52ak or see Kathy Zambelis on Sundays in Cotros Hall. VOLUNTEER PARKING Chickasaw Country Club has offered their parking for all volunteers during the Festival. Please take advantage of their kindness so that we can save the closer spaces for our Festival Guests. There will also be shuttle service available from the following locations: Shuttles Run every 15 minutes from 10:30am;10:30pm St Michael's Catholic Church Summer Ave Poplar Plaza Shopping Center - Poplar at Highland on the Highland side Life Church of Memphis North Highland Drop off is at the front Entrance gate of Annunciation Church

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23 FRIENDS OF THE METROPOLIS pray give grow When you support the Friends of the Metropolis campaign, you are part of a greater outreach that proclaims with one universal voice that God is truly our hope and our rock of salvation. Because of your devotion to the Friends program, ministries and programs are implemented on a Metropolis-wide basis which strengthen and enhance our faith and our joint ministry of service. I would like to invite you to join forces with the faithful throughout the Metropolis of Detroit in support of the ministries which are part of the Office of the Metropolitan. Thanking you for your kind and generous response, I remain, with paternal blessings and prayers, +NICHOLAS Metropolitan of Detroit General Support Fully fund the general expenses of the Metropolis office, including programs and travels. Outreach/Missions Create opportunities to introduce our faith to society. Participate in inter-christian and interfaith activities. Provide quick responses to national and international disasters. Education Enhance various scholarship opportunities, adult education programs, and support Metropolis students at Hellenic College/Holy Cross. Clergy/Parish Support Develop and provide instructional seminars and services for clergy and parishes. Youth Ministries Support the youth & young adult ministries, including our summer camps, as well as the activities of a full-time Metropolis Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Leadership Organize Clergy-Laity Conferences, Oratorical Festivals, Youth Worker and Religious Education Training, and Adult Education Seminars. MORE INFO AT: Hellenism Develop programs for Hellenic Cultural Outreach, including language, history, and arts. Special Programs Continued website development, hospitality to visiting dignitaries, charity and philanthropy. Name Credit Card Check Money Order Address Credit Card No. City State Zip Exp. Date CVC No. Mobile No. Total in $ Parish Name City/State Signature Make checks payable to Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit. Fill out this card and send it with payment to Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit 2560 Crooks Road Troy, MI 48084

24 Stewardship Report Our Archdiocesan Regularions and Parish By-Laws define Stewards as those who participate regularly in the life of the Parish, as well as contributing towards the financial well-being of the Parish by offering stewardship and/or filling out a Stewardship Card. Below is a list of all Stewards of the Annunciation. Those denoted with an (*) have submitted their Stewardship card to the Stewardship Committee. If you have not submitted a Stewardship Card, please contact the Stewardship Committee or the Church Office List of Stewards Katherine Abraham Zoe Anaston Speros Angelakis *Chris & Connie Apalodimas *Maria Apalodimas Michael & Annie Arcamuzi Nick & Anne Argol *John & Diane Avgeris Todd & Cyndi Bagatelas *Steven & Anastasia Barlow James & Olivia Beard Frank & Penelope Bennett *Billy & Carri Benson *Demetra Bitinis *John & Deborah Bookas Janet Boosalis *Shawn Branum *Angela Buchanan Claude Burdikoff Jacob & Michele Buring *Richard Caldwell Dean Carayiannis *Endy Carter *Mary Chagaris Catalin & Anca Chelsoi Cary Chiungos *John Chulos *Charles & Connie Cotros Jerry & Julia Couloubaritsis *Elaine Daniels George Deitz & Kristine Wagner *Helen Demas Chris & Shawn Demos Alexander Denton Anna Denton Greg & Cyndi Detty *John & Madeleine Donnelly Andrew & Christina Douglas *Vasilios & Georgia Douklias Ioiannis Drosos & Regina Kolaitis Bruce & Helen Erskine Phillip & Kellye Farris *Nick & Marty Fox *Pete & Jan Futris Steve & Zoe Futris *Evangelia Gallagher *Christina George *Bill & Niki Gikas Joanne Gikas Ronald & Patricia Grantham Alan & Renee Graves Kevin & Pannayiota Guigley Sarantos & Catherine Hatzigeorgiou Charles & Elizabeth Hawkins Laurentiu & Mihaela Herbei Sandy E Herbert *Maria Hetos Spence Holland Nathan & Stephanie Hooker Ken & Vicki Hoover *Andrew & Leah Horvath Ann Alexander Howard Koula Hristopoulou *Cristina Hunter *Athena Jameson Al & Tina Jennings Bill & Denise Joyner George & Dimitra Kakales *Mary Kapos Jim & Despina Karas Antonios Karaziotis & Beverly Sanderson *Georgia Karris *Diane Kavelaras Erin Kay *John & Nancy Kay Maureen Kay *James Kennedy Nadar & Toni Khalaf Sarkis & Jenny Kish Bessie Kolapanas Harry & Jenny Koniditsiotis John & Cornelia Koniditsiotis *Kalliope Lefes *Tina Liollio Kevin & Alexia Loughman Samya Louza Tom & Emily Love *Aklilu Maasho & Nigisti Amdetsion Irini Manousakis Pete & Amelia Maragos *Yolanta Matika Gus Mavraganis *James Scott McKee & Weilin XI Bobby & Nicole McNulty

25 *Emily Melonas Peter & Kathryn Melonas *James & Susan Meng *Gus Michalas *Michael & Madeline Michalopulos Allen & Lydia Mims Tom & Phani Mitchell Mary Toni Montgomery *Alexis Moore *Mike & Maria Moore *Tommy & Kyndall Moore *Steven & Jennifer Morris Robert & Kathy Morrison Michael & Valerie Mosby Naji & Rebecca Nassif *Nick & Linda Nichols Michael & Linda Nix Mitch & Linda Obradovic Abraham Ogbasion Asmelash & Asmeret Ogbasion *Stefan & Mary Osborn Greg & Elaine Otto Demetri Papastefan Maria & John Papastefan Alexandra Pappas Andrew & Jenny Pappas Maria Pappas *Anna Paris *Dorothy Paris *Evangeline Paris Dennis & Odette Patrikios Basil & Bethany Paulus *Manual & Mary Beth Peters Manuel & Susanna Peters Derek & Marianthe Pilcher *Vasile & Maria Popa *Ted & Stephanie Poplos John & Maria Poulos *Chrysanthe Preza & Einir Valdimarsson Elizabeth Ramage *Scott & Nancy Reed Patrick & Katherine Riederer Alex Roiniotis James Pete Ruby Roxanna Sabghi Terri Sarantidis *Eric & Anne Schmitt Theresa Schnepf Vasili & Luane Semos *Daniel Shipman Harry & Magda Sinis Tom & Susan Sinis *Harry & Catherine Skefos Vasilios & Eleni Skoutakis *Jimmy & Georgia Smith *James & Sophia Sousoulas *Thomas & Stasia Spentzas Pandora Stamson Steve & Joy Steckler Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras James Taras *Kosta & Loretta Taras *David & Christine Tashie George & Cecile Tashie *James & Nancy Tashie John Tashie Judd & Debbie Tashie Anastasia Terranova Amanuel & Brur Tesfazion *Lee & Yiota Theodore *Sophie Theodore *Fr. Simon & Presvytera Stephanie Thomas Gregg & Lorrie Tingle Andrew Tobias Richard & Angela Tobias *Gabriel & Enosis Touliatos Sarah Touliatos Maria Trif Millicent Underwood *Konstantine & Julia Valelis Mary Verges *Alex Vergos John & Ellen Vergos *Tasia Vergos Theodore Vergos Lee Vieron *Fr. Nicholas Vieron *Paul Vieron *Stephanie Walker *Magdi & Amira Wassef Maria Wasserman *Vasiliki Whitten Jeanne Ybos *Nick & Georgia Zaharopoulos *Chris Zambelis *John Michael Zambelis *Michael & Kathy Zambelis William & Julie Zdancewicz As of April 22, 2018: 2018 Stewardship Cards: 80 Stewards: Amount Pledged: $ 213, Amount Received to date: $ 96, Amount Received in April to date: $29, As of April 30, 2017: 2017 Stewardship Cards: 90 Stewards: 185 Amount Pledged: $190, Amount Received to Date: $88, Amount Received in April: $24,609.00

26 APRIL 2018 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 Library Open 10:00 am 2 MID-PENTECOST 3 4 Bible Study 6:30 pm Festival Workshop Gyro Meat Cooking 12:00 Noon 5 Athenian Dance Troupe Practice 9:00 am Festival Workshop Gyro Meat Prep 9:00 am 6 SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 10:00 am!2:00 Noon Festival Workshop Pre-packs 12:00 Noon (Cookout for workers) DOP Election of Officers 12:00 Noon 7 Festival Workshop Prepacks 8:00 am POS Training 12:00 6:00 pm St. John Feast Day Liturgy 6:00 pm 8 Festival Workshop Syrup Making 8:00 am POS Training Elpis Board Meeting 6:30 pm 9 Festival Workshops: Chicken Prep 8:00 am Meat Skewering 3:00 pm Athenian Dance Troupe Practice 4:00 pm Bible Study 6:30 pm 10 Festival Workshop Galaktobourkeko Assembly 9:00 am Set Up Dining Room in Cotros Hall 5:00 pm 11 Greek Festival 11:00 am 8:00 pm Church Tours 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, & 7:00 pm Athenian Dance Troupe Performance 6:00 pm 12 Greek Festival 11:00 am 8:00 pm Athenian Dance Troupe Performance 12:00 Noon & 6:00 pm Church Tours 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, & 7:00 pm 13 SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN MOTHER S DAY Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 10:00 am!2:00 Noon Library Open 10:00 am 2:00 pm 16 Apadosis of Pascha Bible Study 6:30 pm 17 FEAST OF THE ASCENSION Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Metropolis Oratorical Festival 12:00 Noon in Detroit 20 SUNDAY OF THE FATHERS OF THE ECUMENICAL COUN- CIL GRATUATION SUNDAY Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 10:00 am 12:00 Noon Fundamentals of Financial Well-Being 12:00 Noon Coffee Fellowship to honor Graduates hosted by Elpis & DOP 12:00 Noon GOYA Meeting 12:00 Noon More Than a Meal 3:00 pm 21 FEAST OF SAINTS CON- STANTINE & HELEN Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Parish Council Meeting 6:15 pm Library Open 10:00 am 2:00 pm Young at Heart Bible Study 6:30 pm Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class Graduation Barbeque Luau & Costume Contest 11:30 am SATURDAY OF SOULS Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am 27 HOLY PENTECOST Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 10:00 am 12:00 Noon Fundamentals of Financial Well-Being 12:00 Noon 28 DAY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 29 MEMORIAL DAY Office Closed Library Open 10:00 am 2:00 pm Bible Study 6:30 pm