The Epistle. February Love by Any Other Name

Transcription

1 The Epistle February 2016 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Pastor Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Pastor Emeritus 573 N. Highland St. / Memphis, TN (901) / fax (901) annunciationmemphis@gmail.com/ Love by Any Other Name As the calendar turns to February, our society begins to focus on love or at least a version of commercialized love called Valentine s Day. While I completely encourage you to make love your aim (1 Cor. 14:1), what we understand love to be is so confused and distorted, I often wonder what a person means when they use the word love. Why do we use the same word for how we feel about our spouse and for how much we like ice cream? Obviously these are two different things I hope! What if we were to remove the word love from our vocabulary? Would you be able to properly describe how you feel about your spouse or children? What about your favorite meal or song or television show? We use love in so many ways it has almost lost its meaning. In The Princess Bride, the stable boy Westley always answers his true love, Buttercup, by saying, As you wish. She comes to understand that by saying this, he really means, I love you. She doesn t need to hear him actually say the words, she knows by how he treats her. He expresses his love through actions, not words. When Christ tells His disciples, By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35), He is asking us to show love for one another by our behavior, not to simply profess it with our mouth. In fact, our conduct should be so clear in our love for one another, that others recognize it and know that we are Christians. How do we live in such a way that others see our love? We have to go to the source of all things God for love is of God (1 John 4:7). Even more so, God is love (1 John 4:8), and He shows His love by action as well, The love of God is manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him (1 John 4:9). In essence, self-sacrifice is how God defines love. Yet, it appears that just the opposite is meant when we describe love. Marriage has become a right to make two people happy, instead of two people dying to themselves in order to live for the other. Children have become a burden to parents who want to continue living their own lives, instead of an opportunity to share life lessons with a vulnerable and dependent person. Casual sex has become the norm because it doesn t mean anything, and abortion has become big business out of convenience. Love has come to mean that we devour another person, consuming them out of selfishness. In his preface to The Screwtape Letters, C. S. Lewis writes, Even in human life we have seen the passion to dominate, almost to digest one s fellow; to make his whole intellectual and emotional life merely an extension of one s own on Earth this desire is often called love. Godly love is not about self, it is about others. Godly love does not boast, it proves itself. Godly love is not a right to be claimed, it is seen and known by all. May we live our lives in the love of God, that all may see our love and know that we are His disciples. With Love in Christ Father Simon

2 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church TED POPLOS - President MARIA MOORE Vice President ROMULUS SALA-STOIAN - Secretary ED MORRISON - Treasurer PETE RUBY Co-Treasurer BILL JOYNER CHANTERS CHOIR DIRECTOR ASSISTANT DIRECTOR GREEK FESTIVAL GREEK SCHOOL TEACHER PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY PRESIDENT ALTAR GUILD ELPIS BOOKSTORE MAKARIA COORDINATOR MORE THAN A MEAL PRAYER CIRCLE SUNSHINE COMMITTEE REAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP YOUNG AT HEART Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Parish Priest Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Retired ANNUNCIATION PARISH COUNCIL PARISH MINISTRIES DIANE KAVELARAS PETER MELONAS NAJI NASSIF VASILI SEMOS HARRY SINIS ANDREW HORVATH STEPHANIE POPLOS EVAN HOOVER TODD BAGATELAS DESPINA KARAS CYNDI DETTY LAURA COULOUBARITSIS ANGELA TOBIAS MARIANTHE PILCHER CYNDI DETTY LUANE SEMOS ZOE FUTRIS ALEXIS MOORE NICHOLAS NELSON (Ole Miss) KATHY ZAMBELIS ACOLYTES ATHENIAN DANCE TROUPE DIRECTORS GOYA JOY ORATORICAL FESTIVAL SUNDAY SCHOOL DIRECTOR AHEPA PRESIDENT DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE PRESIDENT YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES COMMUNITY PROGRAMS OFFICE PERSONNEL ERIN BOBBITT DE PADILLA TED POPLOS LEAH & ANDREW HORVATH MITCH OBRADOVIC/TED POPLOS/LUANE SEMOS PRESVYTERA STEPHANIE THOMAS ANDREW & TINA DOUGLAS ANNA PARIS JOHN KAY ANASTASIA TERRANOVA CHURCH OFFICE HOURS MONDAY THURSDAY * 8:30 A.M. 4:30 P.M. FRIDAY 8:30 A.M. 12 NOON GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA * METROPOLIS OF DETROIT

3 President s Message Greetings Annunciation. For those who don t know me, my name is Ted Poplos and I have been elected Parish Council President for the year I look forward to working with the 2016 council and all of you, the Annunciation, to make 2016 a truly great year. I would be remiss in not thanking George Deitz for his leadership and guidance this past year. George, it was an honor to serve as your Vice President and I will continue to seek your wisdom as matters arise. Enjoy your time off, you have earned it. Your council is currently in the process of assigning people to the 5 standing committees; 1. Finance/Treasurer 2. Maintenance/Business Practices 3. Stewardship 4. Fundraising 5. Ushering Once the committees have chair people in place we will publish that information so that you will know who to contact with questions, concerns or suggestions. On the previous page (page 2) is a list of the 2016 Parish Council. Some names you will recognize and some you will not. Please feel free to approach us with your thoughts and continue to keep us in your prayers as we continue the work of Mother Church. Together, we will accomplish great things as our predecessors have done. In His Service, Ted Poplos Volunteers for February Acolytes: Co-Captains: Kristofer Preza & Nikolas Preza Carlos Britos Lee Couloubaritsis Austin Detty Jackson Detty Nick Douglas John Eramo Jonathan Holland Vasili Johnson Jonathan Mehrotra Abiel Tesfazion Demetri Thomas David Wassef Ushers 7 Team 1: Maria Moore, Bill Joyner, Pete Ruby 14 Team 2: Naji Nassif, Diane Kavelaras, Peter Melonas 21 Team 3: Romulus Stoian, Ed Morrison, Ted Poplos 28 Team 4: Vasili Semos, Harry Sinis Coffee Fellowship Hosts: 7 Families of Romulus Stoian, Dana Damsa & Maria Trif 14 AGAPE Godparent Luncheon 21 Open 28 Gikas Greeters 7 Sarkis & Jenny Kish 14 Andrew & Tina Douglas 21 Pete & Jan Futris 28 Angela Buchanan & Theo Vergos Epistle Readers: 7 Andrew Douglas 14 Cathe Skefos 21 Tim Bullard 28 Mitch Obradovic Prosphoro Bakers: 7 Enosis Touliatos 14 Enosis Touliatos 21 Enosis Touliatos 28 Enosis Touliatos

4 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 & Presvytera Bess and children Parishioners of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Metropolitan Paul (Yazge) of Aleppo Archbishop Youhanna Ibrahim (Syriac) of Aleppo Ted, Queenie, Sam, Katherine, Dick, Helen, Katherine, Pat, Don, Tina, Katherine, Evangeline, Ria, Jim, Cary, Grace, Andrew, John, John, John, Katherine, Michael, Michael, David, Victoria, Mina, Elizabeth, Elizabeth, Cecilia, Dancey, Andrew January Notices In Honor of Father Vieron by: Katherine Skefos Memorial Contributions (In Memory Of) Angelo Liollio by: Katherine Abraham George & Angie Laskaris by: Katherine Abraham Elias Collins by: Joy Touliatos Steckler, Gabriel & Enosis Touliatos, Dennis & Odette Patrikios, Anastsia & Steven Barlow, Mary & Julia Kapos, John Chulos, George & Laura Couloubaritsis, George Balderas, Leo & Carol Dendrinos, Mrs. Don Evans, Samuel & Mary McMaster, Vicki & James Tedder, Paul & Janet McMaster, Cornelia Varnavas, Katherine Skefos, John & Cornelia Koniditsiotis, Ian & Anastasia Nelson George Nickas by: Joy Touliatos Steckler, Gabriel & Enosis Touliatos, Thomas Roiniotis & family, Barbara Cooper Pendleton, Chris & Ellen Nickas, Mike & Maria Moore, Jim Kennedy, Georgia S. Karris, Tom & Emily Love, Katherine Skefos, Tasia Vergos, James & Nancy Tashie, Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras Jerry Stamson, Jr. by: Albis X Samonides Memorial Services Peggy Capadalis 1 Year January 10 Elias Collins 40 Day January 31 George Nickas 30 Day January 31 Falling Asleep in the Lord George Komondorea January 11 Don Cooper January 27 Baptisms Maya Nichole Vejandla, infant daughter of Pavan Kalyan Vejandla and Ramona Magdalena Sabau with Maria Trif as sponsor

5 Saint Haralambos the Great Martyr February 10 th The holy Priest-Martyr Haralambos, Bishop of Magnesia (Asia Minor), suffered in the year 202. Saint Haralambos successfully spread faith in Christ the Savior, guiding people on the way to salvation. News of his preaching reached Lucian, the governor of the district, and the military commander Lucius. The Saint was arrested and brought to trial, where he confessed his faith in Christ and refused to offer sacrifice to idols. Despite the bishop s advanced age (he was 113 years old), he was subjected to monstrous tortures. They lacerated his body with iron hooks, and scraped all the skin from his body. During this the Saint turned to his tormentors, I thank you, brethren, that you have restored my spirit, which longs to pass over to a new and everlasting life! Seeing the Elder s endurance and his complete lack of malice, two soldiers (Porphyrius and Baptus) openly confessed Christ, for which they were immediately beheaded with a sword. Three women who were watching the sufferings of Saint Haralambos also began to glorify Christ, and were quickly martyred. The enraged Lucius seized the instruments of torture and began to torture the holy martyr, but suddenly his forearms were cut off as if by a sword. The governor then spat in the face of the Saint, and immediately his head was turned around so that he faced backwards. Then Lucius entreated the Saint to show mercy on him, and both torturers were healed through the prayers of Saint Haralambos. During this a multitude of witnesses came to believe in Christ. Among them also was Lucius, who fell at the feet of the holy bishop, asking to be baptized. Lucian reported these events to the emperor Septimus Severus, who was then at Pisidian Antioch (western Asia Minor). The emperor ordered Saint Haralambos to be brought to him in Antioch. Soldiers twisted the Saint s beard into a rope, wound it around his neck, and used it to drag him along. They also drove an iron nail into his body. The emperor then ordered them to torture the bishop more intensely, and they began to burn him with fire, a little at a time. But God protected the Saint, and he remained unharmed. Many miracles were worked through his prayer: he raised a dead youth, and healed a man tormented by demons for thirty-five years, so that many people began to believe in Christ the Savior. Even Galina, the daughter of the emperor, began to believe in Christ, and twice smashed the idols in a pagan temple. On the orders of the emperor they beat the Saint about the mouth with stones. They also wanted to set his beard on fire, but the flames burned the torturer. Full of wickedness, Septimus Severus and an official named Crispus hurled blasphemy at the Lord, mockingly summoning Him to come down to the earth, and boasting of their own power and might. The Lord sent an earthquake, and great fear fell upon all, the impious ones were both suspended in mid-air held by invisible bonds, and only by the prayer of the Saint were they put down. The dazed emperor was shaken in his former impiety, but again quickly fell into error and gave orders to torture the Saint. Finally, he sentenced Saint Haralambos to beheading with a sword. During his final prayer, the heavens opened and the Saint saw the Savior and a multitude of angels. The holy martyr asked Him to grant that the place where his relics would repose would never suffer famine or disease. He also begged that there would be peace, prosperity, and an abundance of fruit, grain, and wine in that place, and that the souls of these people would be saved. The Lord promised to fulfill his request and ascended to heaven, and the soul of the Priest-Martyr Haralambos followed after Him. By the mercy of God, the Saint died before he could be executed. Galina buried the martyr s body with great honor.

6 Tuesday, February 2 nd Feast of the Entrance of the Lord Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Sunday, February 7 th 16 th Sunday of Matthew Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Liturgical Calendar Wednesday, February 10 th Saint Haralambos Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Sunday, February 14 th Sunday of the Canaanite Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Sunday, February 21 st Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee Triodion Begins Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Sunday, February 28 th Sunday of the Prodigal Son Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Studies in the Faith All Classes from 6:00 to 7:30 (unless otherwise indicated) Monday, February 8 th A Cloud of Witnesses We will discuss Saints, the holy men and women who have been glorified by God throughout history, what can we learn from them, and how can we too be found worthy to join their ranks. Monday, February 22 nd The Sacramental Life of the Church We will discuss the Sacraments of the Church: Baptism, Chrismation, Unction, Matrimony, etc. Monday, March 14 th Orthodox Christian Spirituality We will discuss the history of Orthodox spirituality, the history and forms of Orthodox monasticism, and the practical ways in which we can encounter and experience God. Monday, March 28 th The Canons of the Church We will discuss the various Canons (rules) of Christianity as promulgated by the Ecumenical Councils. Some are still practiced to this day, some have fallen into disuse, and some are just plain weird! Bring your 95 Theses, Long Rules, or whatever else you can come up with! Monday, April 11 th - (Following Great Compline) The Structure of the Church The Orthodox Church is hierarchical, but who created the hierarchy? We will discuss the role of bishops, priests, deacons, and the laity in the Church. Monday, TBD Missions and Evangelism What is the history of missions in the Orthodox Church? Is the Orthodox Church evangelical? We will discuss what the answers to these questions means for us today. ======================================================================================================================================== BLESSING OF HOMES FOR THEOPHANY 2016 NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: TELEPHONE: WHAT IS A CONVENIENT TIME/DATE THAT YOU WILL BE HOME? (Please try to schedule times during daytime hours. Although some evenings are available, these are limited due to other scheduled meetings and events. Blessings will take place until Great Lent begins on March 14 th. If you have any questions, please contact Father Simon in the Church Office.)

7 Parish Ministries Philoptochos, Elpis Chapter #7041 More than a Meal Service Sunday, February 21, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. We will be serving dinner to those in need at Grace- St. Luke's church in Midtown. Contact Cyndi Detty for more information Visitation Committee Contact Kristine Wagner (kriwag@gmail.com or ) For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me. There are so many ways to participate in ELPIS and visiting our church family who may be in the hospital, nursing care or home bound is what the visitation committee is all about. Once a month I will correspond with the volunteers assigned for that month via , phone call or written note to let you know who needs a visit. Those volunteers arrange a day, morning or evening, weekend or weekday to visit together. It is not necessary to bring anything for the person getting the visit. However if you decide to pick up a plant or balloon, please turn in your recipe to our treasurer for reimbursement. The gift of time spent is truly what people need the most. It's ok if you don't know the person you are visiting personally because we are a church family our commonality is the love of Christ. Thank you to all the gracious women, men and families who have filled 2016 and 2017 calendar years, we just need a few more for the following months: May, July, August and September Community Art Show Saturday, March 9th - Contact Peter Melonas (fancifulart@hotmail.com) Join us for our annual community art show with proceeds benefiting LeBonheur Children's Hospital. We are looking for volunteers to help take tickets, a bartender and work in the kitchen. Please contact Peter for more information. Bookstore Volunteers Needed Contact Angela Tobias (atobias1@comcast.net or ) or Connie Apalodimas (conniea@comcast.net or ) We are looking for a few volunteers to help in the bookstore on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please contact Angela or Connie for more information Dues We are now accepting 2016 dues. Dues are $35 and include local and national commitments. Members 80 years young and older as well as between the ages of are honorary members and their dues are complimentary. Please give/send your dues to the Elpis Treasurer, Joy Touliatos (1555 Cedar Farms Cove, Cordova, TN 38016). Coming Soon in March March 9th - Art Show March 20th - Sunday of Orthodoxy Reception March 25th - Annunciation Feast Day Brunch Candles for Good Friday go on sale High School Scholarship Applications will be available ELPIS Bookstore Our store offers books, icons, jewelry and many gift items perfect for every person on your list. Don't see what you want, ask a manager to order it for you! Open every Sunday 11:45 to 1:00 and by appointment. Stop by the bookstore for all of your liturgical and gift purchases. We have a large selection of books - including those recommended by Father Simon! Featured Monthly Item St. John Chrysostom Divine Liturgy Book $17 Includes the Greek, Greek phonetic and English translation of our precious Divine Liturgy service in large print. A must have for all!

8 Hosting Coffee Fellowship after Liturgy The Parish Council invites members to volunteer to host a Coffee Fellowship Hour in Cotros Hall during this Ecclesiastical Year. The intent is to offer refreshments of your choice that will encourage social interaction among the membership, and opportunities to meet and greet visitors and new members. The coffee, sugar/sweetener, napkins, plates, cups and utensils are provided by the Church. Please bring creamer and juice. This is a great opportunity to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or to honor a loved one. Photos/memorabilia are encouraged for a table display. Families or groups of individuals can cohost as well. Please call the Church Office to Reserve your date. Diane Kavelaras will be your coordinator for Sunday and can be reached at Coffee will always be available when there is no host. Thank you for your consideration and hopeful participation. Young at Heart Calling all 50's, 60's, 70's,80's & 90's Come enjoy a wonderful afternoon of good food, fun and entertainment-- Thursday, Feb. 18th 11:30 am in Cotros hall. Valentine's Lunch followed by entertainment from Mike Miller. Please join us! Schedule March 17 th - Herbs of the Garden April 21 st - Luau (Wear your best Hawaiian outfit) May 19 th Steppin Out Dancers *Organization co-ordinators: Kathy Zambelis: ,Anna Paris: , Sophie Theodore: News and Notes CALLING ALL ENTERTAINERS! If you are planning to participate in the Talent Show which will be held on Sunday, March 6th - please contact Kathy Zambelis at or her at kzambelis@gmail.com to let her know what act you will be performing. We are looking forward to a wonderful show this year! Be a part of the FUN!!! Thank You Notes Thank you for all of your prayers, thoughts and we'll wishes during my surgery and recovery. They were and are greatly appreciated. What a great honor it is to be part of the Annunciation family. Me agape Ted Poplos and family

9 Youth Ministries Sunday School The Sunday School Program is for children from Pre-K (age 4 by September 1) through 12 th grade. We meet every Sunday immediately following Holy Communion. 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! GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America) The GOYA Ministry at Annunciation is for youth in grades 6 through 12. We seek to provide programming for the entire group and to provide opportunities for our older youth to serve as role models for younger participants. But, owing to the develoental needs of different age groups in the Ministry, certain activities and meetings will be sub-divided into middle school and high school groups. We meet the first and third Sundays of each month at noon in the GOYA Room. Please forward any comments, suggestions for activities, and preferred methods of communication (or to be removed from the GOYA mailing list) to Mitch Obradovic (mitch.obradovic@gmail.com). GOYA Advisors: Mitch Obradovic Demetri Papastefan Ted Poplos Luane Semos GOYA Activities 2016 Over the MLK weekend (January 16 and 17), 7 of our GOYAns driven by Presvytera Stephanie and Demetri Papastefan attended the St. Nicholas Camp Winter Retreat in Lexington, KY. On February 7 we will once again have our Souper Bowl gathering to watch the big game. Activities start at 5. Please remember to bring some canned goods and to sign up for what you are bringing to share with the group. Save the Date: 2016 St. Nicholas Summer Camp July Registration will open February/March JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth) SERVICE PROJECT Rise and Shine it's Donut time! Please join the JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth) Group on February 27th from 10am-2 in our Church Kitchen. The donuts will be packaged and labeled "Handmade by Children at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church" and distributed to a local charity. Plan on having lunch together at church, please contact Presvytera Stephanie to give her a head count ( or s_c_thomas@yahoo.com). Annunciation Oratorical Festival February 13, 2016 Oratorical Festival Update: Excitement for the 2016 Oratorical Festival is building! We had an excellent presentation from Paul Vieron to students last Sunday. Thank you so much Paul! We plan to have the largest amount of participants yet! It's scheduled for 9am Saturday Morning February 13th at Annunciation. By now students that are participating should have topics chosen and should be doing research. Parents please give your child encouragement leading up to the Oratorical Festival on February 13th. We have a practice session scheduled for the Sunday after church one week before the Oratorical festival. This will help students feel comfortable in the same setting as the Oratorical Festival. That practice session will be February 7th after church. On January 30 the GOYA went bowling and then returned to the church for Vespers followed by dinner.

10 Scholarships Chris Douglas scholarship: Applications are being accepted right now for the Chris Douglas scholarship. The application forms can be found online at the parish website or in the parish office. One scholarship is for high school seniors, another is for undergraduate students continuing their college education. Each scholarship is $3,000. Applicants must have their application and essay turned in to the church office by April 15 th at noon. AHEPA District No.1 Scholarship The AHEPA District No. 1 Educational Fund, Inc. has scholarship programs which were established to promote, encourage, induce and advance education at the college, university and graduate school level. The complete application packet must be postmarked April 15, The form with detailed instructions can be found online at the parish website at in the parish office or through one of the AHEPA members. AHEPA Local Scholarship The Spero J. Zepatos Chapter No. 7 of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association has a scholarship program which was established to promote, encourage, induce and advance education at the college, university and graduate school level. AHEPA Chapter 7 offers one annual scholarship in the amount of $1,500 to a qualified person of good moral character who is attending or plans to attend an accredited college or university. The complete application with all requirements can be found online at the parish website at or in the parish office. Applications and all supporting documents turned in to the parish office by Friday, April 29 th at noon. ELPIS Community Art Show Art comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors- You know it s good if you can t stop staring! Members of the Memphis Chapter of Elpis Philoptochos will host Art Suitable for Framing on March 12, 2016 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event will take place in the Harry and Margaret Cotros Hall of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, located at 573 North Highland. We are asking for a donation of $10.00 per person for this year's charity and social event. Our 4 th annual fundraiser will once again provide the opportunity for Mid-Southerners to view and purchase a variety of drawings, paintings, and prints from Memphis based and regional artists to benefit the Children of Le Bonheur. Attendees of Art Suitable for Framing will be able to purchase the It s Greek To Me! cookbook, which features a mélange of traditional recipes from Greece and other countries embracing the Eastern Orthodox religion. A cash bar and Grecian gourmet hors d oeuvres will be served for your culinary delight. Our guest artist, Greg Cravens, has drawn cartooning work including many activity books and coloring books for Memphis base companies like Shoney s and Perkins restaurants, FedEx, Hampton Inns, and Memphis Grizzlies. In 2000, Greg began working on the syndicated comic strip The Buckets, featured in The Chicago Tribune. For a nominal fee, you ll be able to have a caricature drawn of yourself, on-site, by our distinguished cartoonist. Be the change you wish to see in the world. We are looking for a few good-samaritans to help make our Art Gallery + Sale a success. Please support us! Come enjoy our Art Gallery + Sale, entertainment, and fellowship.

11 Young Adult Ministries We are reviving the Young Adult Ministry here at Annunciation. The program has been re-branded and reformatted as REAL (Representing Emerging Adult Leaders). REAL is the Archdiocese s new young adult ministries program, the successor to YAL. It focuses on young adults ages REAL offers programs and resources based on education, fellowship, service and worship, challenging young adults to not simply be passive participants in the Faith but to truly live Orthodoxy each and every day. Join in the conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/goayoungadults, on Twitter at twitter.com/goa_youngadults, on Instagram at Instagram.com/GOA_YoungAdults or on YouTube at youtube.com/y2am. If you are interested in being a part of REAL, please contact Alexis Moore at or at alexismoore419@gmail.com. REAL will be holding a Super Bowl Party on February 7 th at 4:30 at the home of Alexis Moore. Food and drink will be provided. Feel Free to bring a friend! Please contact Alexis or the REAL Memphis Facebook group for more details Memphis Greek Festival May 6-7, :00 am - 8:00 Koulourakia Thursday & Friday February 25 & 26 9:00 am - 5:00 Macaroons Monday & Tuesday March 14 & 15 9:00 am - 5:00 Sweet Bread Friday & Saturday April 1 & 2 9:00 am- 5:00 Spanakopita Friday & Saturday April 8 & 9; April 15 & 16 9:00 am - 5:00 Workshops Kourambiethes Monday & Tuesday April 18 & 19 9:00 am - 5:00 Pre-Pack Days Tuesday & Wednesday May 3 & 4 9:00-5:00 Meat Skewering Wednesday May 4 Chicken Prep Wednesday May 4 Galaktoboureko Thursday May 5 8:00 am - 5:00 Volunteers will be needed for all of the workshops. Please contact the following workshop chairmen for more details: Koulourakia, Macaroons & Kourambiethes workshops & Pre-Pack Days: Linda or Nick Nichols or Elaine Otto. Spanakopita workshop: Madeleine Donnelly. Sweet Bread workshop: Marianthe Pilcher. This is our best opportunity to share our Orthodox Christian Faith and culture. Please plan to be a part of our Festival. Please contact the Church Office to volunteer!

12 Community Organizations AHEPA Chapter 7, Memphis TN The mission of the AHEPA is to promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and and Individual Excellence. The AHEPA is a men s group open to those 18 and older. Our chapter in Memphis is currently looking at changing our format for meetings and activities. Please watch the newsletter and announcements for updates and information on meeting times and places along with activities and outings. We encourage you to check out the new version of AHEPA. We think you may be in for a pleasant surprise. Daughters of Penelope The Daughters of Penelope, founded on November 16, 1929, in San Francisco, California, is a part of the AHEPA. Our Mission Statement is the same as AHEPA s: To promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and & Individual Excellence. DOP WELCOMES THREE NEW MEMBERS Highlighting our first meeting of 2016 was the initiation of Penny (Penelope) Bichi, Panny (Pannyiota) Guigley and Alexis Moore to our Alpheus Memphis Chapter. If you re interested in learning more about our group and/or would like to join us please contact Anastasia Terranova. AHEPA & DOP February Schedule of Events AHEPA Upcoming events: The Men of AHEPA will be cooking for the Apokreas Dinner on Sunday, March 6. Please check with John Kay and Ted Poplos for more details. AHEPA will not be having any scheduled meetings until April 12. Any updates will be included in the next Epistle. DOP Upcoming events: AGAPE (LOVE) IS THE THEME OF THIS LUNCHEON! Mark February 14 th on your calendar for our annual event which lovingly recognizes all godparents -- residing here or elsewhere, living and the departed. Connie and Chris Apolodimas much requested and loved menu of Keftedes is paired with potatoes, salad and made with love Valentine dessert. Daughters reminds those of you without a godparent nearby to consider adopting a Nouna or Nouno and together attend this lovely event. Please notify Kathy Zambelis (prior to the event) if you would like your loving godparent (s) honored during her recognition ceremony. Please see the attached flyer for more details. COMING UP IN MARCH Sunday March 6, (Meat Fare Sunday) is the Apokreas Dinner and Talent Show. Dinner will be prepared by the men of AHEPA and the Daughters will sponsor the Talent Show. Please contact Kathy Zambelis if you would like to share your talents during this always enjoyable event.

13 27th Annual AGAPE/GODPARENT Luncheon Sponsored by: Daughters of Penelope Sunday, February 14, 2016 Adults and children both feel the important role a Godparent has in their lives! Each year, this special day is dedicated to share, honor and remember Godparents. Come celebrate the Divine Liturgy, partake in Holy Communion together. Please plan to stay and enjoy a delicious homemade meal prepared by the Daughters of Penelope. If you do not have a Godparent in town, please adopt one for the day! So, whatever your age, be sure to share Sunday, February 14th with your real or adopted Godparent. MENU Keftedes Oven Roasted Potatoes Salad Bread Valentine Desserts Drinks included ADULTS: children (12 & under) : 6.00 Check may be made payable to the Daughters of Penelope *Carry out orders will also be available Another tradition for the day is the opportunity to pay tribute to your real or adopted Godparents by including your name and their name to be read at the luncheon. Please fill out the form below, and give it to Kathy Zambelis. Any amount of a donation is accepted. Contact Kathy at kzambelis@gmail.com or Your Name In Honor/Memory of Contribution

14 YOUNG AT HEART VALENTINE S LUNCHEON & ENTERTAINMENT Thursday, February 18 th 11:30 am Everyone 50 years of age and older are invited and encourage to join us! Come enjoy a delicious lunch and be entertained by the music of Mike Miller. Hope to see you there!

15 Dinner Sponsored by the AHEPA Talent Show - Sponsored by the Daughters of Penelope. Share your talents! Whether it be singing, dancing, acting Playing a musical instrument, Telling jokes, your choice! Sunday, March 6, :30 Join us for an evening of delicious food, fun, fellowship and entertainment! MENU Cooked by the Chefs of AHEPA Gourmet meatballs Roast Beef Oven roasted potatoes Salad Rolls Dessert Drinks TICKETS: Adults $12.00 Children 12 & Under: $6.00 Dinner begins at 6:00 followed by the Talent Show PRIOR TO THE SHOW If you are planning to participate in the Talent Show Please Contact: Kathy Zambelis at or at: kzambelis@gmail.com And let her know what you will be performing

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17 G R E E K O R T H O D OX M E T RO P O L I S O F D E T RO I T FRIENDS OF THE METROPOLIS Dear Friends of the Metropolis: God has called us to do mighty deeds for the glory of His name and for the love of His people. You are called upon to join in this reality of faith working through love as we continue to manifest the love of God for His Church and His people. 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 and help to the Friends program, ministries and programs are implemented on a Metropoliswide basis which strengthen and enhance our faith and our joint ministry of service. If you have not yet become part of the Metropolis-wide effort, I would like to invite you to join forces with the faithful throughout the Metropolis 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 WHAT DOES FRIENDS OF THE METROPOLIS SUPPORT? GENERAL Fully fund the expenses of the Metropolis office, program and travels. EDUCATION Enhance scholarships and adult education programs, as well as support the Metropolis students at Hellenic College/Holy Cross. SUPPORT Develop and provide educational and instructional seminars and services to clergy and parishes. YOUTH Maintain and support the youth office and activities of a full-time Youth and Young Adult Ministries director. OUTREACH/MISSIONS Create opportunities to introduce our faith to society, participate in inter-christian and inter-faith activities as well as provide quick responses to national disasters. HELLENISM Develop programs for Hellenic Cultural Outreach, including language, history and arts. LEADERSHIP Organize Metropolis Clergy-Laity Conferences, Oratorical Festivals, Christmas Pageants, and Adult Education Programs. SPECIAL PROGRAMS Website develoent, hospitality to visiting dignitaries and guests, Charity and Philanthropy. PLEASE SEND THE FOLLOWING FORM IN AN ENVELOPE TO THE ADDRESS BELOW I am pleased to support the work of Metropolitan Nicholas and the Metropolis through the Annual Metropolis Stewardship Friends Program G R E E K O R T H O D O X M E T R O P O L I S O F D E T R O I T 2560 CROOKS ROAD TROY, MI Phone: Fax: NAME (please print) ADDRESS (please print) PHONE $25 $50 $100 $250 $500 $1000 OTHER METHOD OF PAYMENT Check Enclosed (payable to Metropolis of Detroit) Please Charge My Credit Card (MC or VISA ONLY) office@detroit.goarch.org Website: ADDRESS (please print) CREDIT CARD # EXP. DATE PARISH AFFILIATION CITY/STATE SIGNATURE

18 Stewardship Report Our Archdiocesan Regulations 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. *Allphin, Robert Anaston, Zoe *Apalodimas, Chris & Connie *Apalodimas, Maria Arcamuzi, Michael & Avgeris, John & Diane *Barlow, Steven & Anastasia & *Bitinis, Demetra *Bookas, John & Deborah *Branum, Shawn Buchanan, Angela *Bullard, Tim Buring, Jacob & Michele & family *Carter, Endy *Chagaris, Mary *Couloubaritsis, Jerry & Julia & family Deitz, George & Wagner, Kristine & family *Demos, Chris & Shawn *Detty, Greg & Cyndi & family Douglas, Andrew & Tina & Erskine, Bruce & Helen *Fox, Nick & Marty Fox *Futris, Katherine *Futris Jr., Pete & Jan Gallagher, Evangelia *Georgopoulos, Lois *Gikas, Bill & Niki Gikas, Joanne 2016 List of Stewards Gogonelis, Alex *Govatos, George Grantham, Ronald & Patricia *Graves, Alan & Renee & Guidi, Sophia Guigley, Kevin & Pannay & Hawkins, Charles & Elizabeth & *Herbert, Sandy *Hooker, Nathan & Stephanie & *Hoover, Ken & Vicki & *Horvath, Andrew & Leah *Jameson, Athena Jennings, Al & Tina & Johnson, John Joyner, Bill & Denise Karas, Jim & Despina Karris, Georgia *Kavelaras, Diane *Kay, John & Nancy *Kennedy, James Khalaf, Nader Kish, Sarkis & Jenny *Kollias, Marcy Kolopanas, Bessie *Lefes, Kalliope *Liollio, Tina *Love, Tom & Emily *McKee, Scott & Weilin Xi and *Melonas, Emily Melonas, Peter & Kathryn *Moore, Alexis *Moore, Michael & Maria *Moore, Tommy *Morrison, Robert & Kathryn *Mosby, Michael & Valerie & Nassif, Naji *Obradovic, Mitch & Linda & Ogbasion, Abraham Otto, Greg & Elaine & *Papastefan, Demetri Pappas, Alexandra & Pappas, Maria *Paris, Anna *Paris, Dorothy *Paris, Evangeline Paulus, Basil *Peters, Manual & Mary Beth Peters, Manuel & Susanna Pilcher, Derek & Marianthe *Poplos, Ted & Stephanie & Ramage, Elizabeth Reed, Scott *Ruby, Pete Sarantidis, Foti & Terri Schmitt, Eric & Anne & *Shian, Daniel & family *Sinis, Harry & Magda & *Skefos, Harry & Catherine Smith, Jimmy & Georgia Stamson, Pandora Stoian, Romulus & Camelia Taras, Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras, James *Taras, Kosta & Loretta *Tashie, David & Christine & *Tashie, James & Nancy *Terranova, Anastasia *Theodore, Lee & Yiota *Thomas, Fr. Simon & Pres. Stephanie & *Tobias, Andrew *Tobias, Richard & Angela Touliatos, Sarah Trif, Maria *Vergos, Annie Vergos, Tasia Vergos, Theodore Vieron, Lee Vieron, Fr. Nicholas & Pres. Bess Vieron, Lee *Wassef, Magdi & Amira & *Whitten, Vasiliki *Zachary, Nina Thank you for your contribution for the year 2016! Your stewardship supports the ministries of the Annunciation. If we have mistakenly left your name off the list, please contact the Church Office! As of January 31, Stewards 110 Stewardship Cards 62 Amount Pledged - $106, Amount Received - $21, (as of January 27)

19 FEBRUARY 2016 SUNDAY MONDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 Feast of the Entrance Greek School 12:00 of the Lord Greek School 2:00 Girl Scouts 3:30 DOP Board Meeting Noon Orthos/Divine Liturgy 10:30 am Fr. Vieron s Adult 9:00 am Greek School 4:00 Greek Class 6:30 Greek School 4:00 Elpis Board Meeting 6:30 at Swanky s 7 16 th Sunday of Matthew Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am 12noon Sunday School 11:00 am Coffee Hour hosted by Fam. Stoian, D Damsa & M Trif. REAL Super Bowl Party 4:30 GOYA Souper Bowl Party 5:00 8 Greek School 12:00 Noon Studies in the Faith 6:00 Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30 9 Greek School 4:00 10 Saint Haralambos Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Greek School 2: Greek School 4:00 13 St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival 9:00 am 12:00 Noon DOP Monthly Meeting & Prep for Sunday s Agape Godparent Luncheon 10:00 am 14 Sunday of the Canaanite Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am AGAPE Godparent Luncheon 15 Greek School 12:00 Noon Parish Council Meeting 6:15 Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30 16 Greek School 4:00 17 Greek School 2:00 18 Young at Heart Luncheon 11:30 am Girl Scouts 3:30 19 Greek School 4: Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee Triodion Begins Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Scout Sunday Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am Coffee Hour - Open GOYA Meeting 12:00 Noon More Than a Meal 3:00 22 Greek School 12:00 Noon Studies in the Faith 6:00 Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30 23 Greek School 4:00 24 Greek School 2:00 25 Festival Workshop Koulourakia 9:00 am 5:00 26 Festival Workshop Koulourakia 9:00 am 5:00 Greek School 4:00 27 JOY Service Project (Donut Baking for Charity) plus Lunch Kitchen & Hall 10:00 am 28 Sunday of the Prodigal Son Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am Coffee Hour hosted by the Gikas 29 Greek School 12:00 Noon Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30