The Epistle. December A Holiday for Children

Transcription

1 The Epistle December 2015 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/ A Holiday for Children It is that time of year again! Beginning with Black Friday, Americans will spend much of the month of December preparing for Christmas. Much of our time will be spent shopping, decorating, cooking, baking, wrapping, and hiding presents. As Christians, we then attempt to balance the secular with the spiritual in an effort to keep Christ in Christmas. With all that is going on, we are often so worn out by the 25 th of December that we end up not even enjoying the day! As a result of all this hustle and bustle, it is sometimes said out of frustration that Christmas is only a holiday for children. The simple response to that: Yes, it is! Children await Christmas with awe and wonder, excitedly counting down the days. Their innocence leaves no room for judgment of others, for frustration, for the attitude of a Scrooge. They trust that Santa will come with presents, which for them is their expression and joy and faith in the Nativity of Christ. This is precisely how we should approach the Nativity of the Lord as a child! Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it (Luke 18:17). It is no coincidence that the subject of Christmas is Himself a child. The Creator of the world and King of all came not as a fully grown warrior to conquer and overcome, but in humility as a newborn babe. He was a fragile infant in need of protection and care from His parents. As if to emphasize this point, the Gospel tells us that King Herod slaughtered the innocent children of his land shortly after the Incarnation of Christ, providing a grim reminder of the violent and chaotic world our Lord entered as a Savior. With this in mind, when we look upon the manger scene, we should have more than just sentimentality we should have peace, joy, and fulfillment. Even though today s world is just as violent and chaotic, Salvation has come into the world to save humankind in the person of Jesus Christ! We do not just celebrate Christmas. We want the presence of our Lord to permeate our hearts and to create within us the hope and expectation of Kingdom of God. I pray that this year we all approach the Nativity of Christ through the eyes of a child with wonder, with love, with humility, and with excitement. May we make room in our hearts to truly receive Christ, so that He may dwell in us! I wish you all very Merry Christmas! Father Simon

2 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Parish Priest Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Retired GEORGE DEITZ - President TED POPLOS - Vice President MAGDI WASSEF - Secretary ED MORRISON - Treasurer BILL JOYNER GEORGE KARKATSUGAS ANNUNCIATION PARISH COUNCIL DIANE KAVELARAS PETER MELONAS MARIA MOORE NAJI NASSIF HARRY SINIS 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 PARISH MINISTRIES 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 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 Queenie, Katherine, Evangeline, Sam, Walker, Jeffrey, Angus, Daphne, Weilin, Araceli, Jim, Rachel, Edna/George, Robin, Linda, Katherine, Elizabeth, Cecilia, Leah Elizabeth, John, John, John, Dancey, Michael, Michael, Michael, Katherine, Victoria, David, Nina, Andrew, Andrew, Carl, Dorothy Youth of Annunciation and college students Paris victims and their families Syrian refugees November Notices Memorial Contributions (In Memory Of) George Laskaris by Todd & Cyndi Bagatelas, Tina Liollio, John R. & Mary Anne Koch, John Chulos, Andrew & Tina Douglas, Pete & Jan Futris Jr., Jim Kennedy, Tom & Emily Capadalis Love, Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras, John D. & Mary J. Self (for George and Angie) Angelo Liollio by Costa & Nancy Taras (on his birthday), Ted & Stephanie Poplos, Demos Kouzounis & family, Ed & Kathy Morrison Evangeline Vafinis by Ed & Kathy Morrison Claudia Stoian by Romulus & Camelia Sala-Stoian Robert Nichols ( Brian Berretta s Uncle) by Ted & Stephanie Poplos Creel Helms (Melissa Berretta s Father) by Ted & Stephanie Poplos Acolytes: Co-Captains: Kristofer Preza & Nikolas Preza Carlos Britos Volunteers for December Lee Couloubaritsis Austin Detty Jackson Detty Nick Douglas John Eramo Jonathan Holland Vasili Johnson Jonathan Mehrotra Abiel Tesfazion Demetri Thomas David Wassef Noah Wiggins Jonah Wiggins Ushers 6 Team 5: Bill Joyner & Naji Nassif 13 Team 6: Maria Moore & Peter Melonas 20 Team 1: George Deitz & George Karkatsugas 27 Team 2: Magdi Wassef Greeters 6 Anastasia Terranova & Athena Jameson 13 Sarkis & Jenny Kish 20 Andrew & Tina Douglas 27 John Tashie & Daughters Prosphoro Bakers: 6 Enosis Touliatos 13 Enosis Touliatos 20 Enosis Touliatos 27 Enosis Touliatos Epistle Readers: 6 Scott McKee 13 Cathe Skefos 20 TBD 27 Endy Carter Coffee Fellowship Hosts: 6 AHEPA Pancake Breakfast 13 Stephanie & Billy Johnson in memory of her brother Jerry Welsh 20 Kellye, Luke & Summer Farris & the Melonas in honor of Phil s Ironman Completion 27 Dr. & Mrs. Steve Futris on the occasion of their 62 nd Wedding Anniversary

4 Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker December 6 th Saint Nicholas, the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia was born in the city of Patara in the region of Lycia (on the south coast of the Asia Minor peninsula), and was the only son of pious parents Theophanes and Nonna, who had vowed to dedicate him to God. As the fruit of the prayer of his childless parents, the infant Nicholas from the very day of his birth revealed to people the light of his future glory as a wonderworker. His mother, Nonna, after giving birth was immediately healed from illness. The newborn infant, while still in the baptismal font, stood on his feet three hours, without support from anyone, thereby honoring the Most Holy Trinity. St Nicholas from his infancy began a life of fasting, and on Wednesdays and Fridays he would not accept milk from his mother until after his parents had finished their evening prayers. From his childhood Nicholas thrived on the study of Divine Scripture; by day he would not leave church, and by night he prayed and read books, making himself a worthy dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. Bishop Nicholas of Patara rejoiced at the spiritual success and deep piety of his nephew. He ordained him a reader, and then elevated Nicholas to the priesthood, making him his assistant and entrusting him to instruct the flock. In serving the Lord the youth was fervent of spirit, and in his proficiency with questions of faith he was like an Elder, who aroused the wonder and deep respect of believers. Constantly at work and vivacious, in unceasing prayer, the priest Nicholas displayed great kind-heartedness towards the flock, and towards the afflicted who came to him for help, and he distributed all his inheritance to the poor. There was a certain formerly rich inhabitant of Patara, whom St Nicholas saved from great sin. The man had three grown daughters, and in desperation he planned to sell their bodies so they would have money for food. The saint, learning of the man s poverty and of his wicked intention, secretly visited him one night and threw a sack of gold through the window. With the money the man arranged an honorable marriage for his daughter. St Nicholas also provided gold for the other daughters, thereby saving the family from falling into spiritual destruction. In bestowing charity, St Nicholas always strove to do this secretly and to conceal his good deeds. The Bishop of Patara decided to go on pilgrimage to the holy places at Jerusalem, and entrusted the guidance of his flock to St Nicholas, who fulfilled this obedience carefully and with love. When the bishop returned, Nicholas asked his blessing for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Along the way the saint predicted a storm would arise and threaten the ship. St Nicholas saw the devil get on the ship, intending to sink it and kill all the passengers. At the entreaty of the despairing pilgrims, he calmed the waves of the sea by his prayers. Through his prayer a certain sailor of the ship, who had fallen from the mast and was mortally injured was also restored to health. When he reached the ancient city of Jerusalem and came to Golgotha, St Nicholas gave thanks to the Savior. He went to all the holy places, worshiping at each one. Going round the holy places connected with the earthly service of the Son of God, St Nicholas decided to withdraw into the desert, but he was stopped by a divine voice urging him to return to his native country. He returned to Lycia, and yearning for a life of quietude, the saint entered into the brotherhood of a monastery named Holy Sion, which had been founded by his uncle. But the Lord again indicated another path for him, Nicholas, this is not the vineyard where you shall bear fruit for Me. Return to the world, and glorify My Name there. So he left Patara and went to Myra in Lycia. Upon the death of Archbishop John, Nicholas was chosen as Bishop of Myra after one of the bishops of the Council said that a new archbishop should be revealed by God, not chosen by men. One of the elder bishops had a vision of a radiant Man, Who told him that the one who came to the church that night and was first to enter should be made archbishop. He would be named Nicholas. The bishop went to the church at night to await

5 Nicholas. The saint, always the first to arrive at church, was stopped by the bishop. What is your name, child? he asked. God s chosen one replied, My name is Nicholas, Master, and I am your servant. After his consecration as archbishop, St Nicholas remained a great ascetic, appearing to his flock as an image of gentleness, kindness and love for people. This was particularly precious for the Lycian Church during the persecution of Christians under the emperor Diocletian ( ). Bishop Nicholas, locked up in prison together with other Christians for refusing to worship idols, sustained them and exhorted them to endure the fetters, punishment, and torture. The Lord preserved him unharmed. Upon the accession of St Constantine as emperor, St Nicholas was restored to his flock, which joyfully received their guide and intercessor. Despite his great gentleness of spirit and purity of heart, St Nicholas was a zealous and ardent warrior of the Church of Christ. Fighting evil spirits, the saint made the rounds of the pagan temples and shrines in the city of Myra and its surroundings, shattering the idols and turning the temples to dust. In the year 325 St Nicholas was a participant in the First Ecumenical Council. This Council proclaimed the Nicean Symbol of Faith, and he stood up against the heretic Arius with the likes of Sts Sylvester the Bishop of Rome, Alexander of Alexandria, Spyridon of Trimythous, and other Fathers of the Council. St Nicholas, fired with zeal for the Lord, assailed the heretic Arius with his words, and also struck him upon the face. For this reason, he was deprived of the emblems of his episcopal rank and placed under guard. But several of the holy Fathers had the same vision, seeing the Lord Himself and the Mother of God returning to him the Gospel and Omophorion. The Fathers of the Council agreed that the audacity of the saint was pleasing to God, and restored the saint to the office of bishop. Having returned to his own diocese, the saint brought it peace and blessings, sowing the word of Truth, uprooting heresy, nourishing his flock with sound doctrine, and also providing food for their bodies. Even during his life the saint worked many miracles. One of the greatest was the deliverance from death of three men unjustly condemned by the Governor, who had been bribed. The saint boldly went up to the executioner and took his sword, already suspended over the heads of the condemned. The Governor, denounced by St Nicholas for his wrongdoing, repented and begged for forgiveness. Witnessing this remarkable event were three military officers, who were sent to Phrygia by the emperor Constantine to put down a rebellion. They did not suspect that soon they would also be compelled to seek the intercession of St Nicholas. Evil men slandered them before the emperor, and the officers were sentenced to death. Appearing to St Constantine in a dream, St Nicholas called on him to overturn the unjust sentence of the military officers. He worked many other miracles, and struggled many long years at his labor. Through the prayers of the saint, the city of Myra was rescued from a terrible famine. He appeared to a certain Italian merchant and left him three gold pieces as a pledge of payment. He requested him to sail to Myra and deliver grain there. More than once, the saint saved those drowning in the sea, and provided release from captivity and imprisonment. Having reached old age, St Nicholas peacefully fell asleep in the Lord. His venerable relics were preserved incorrupt in the local cathedral church and flowed with curative myrrh, from which many received healing. In the year 1087, his relics were transferred to the Italian city of Bari, where they rest even now. The name of the great saint of God, the hierarch and wonderworker Nicholas, a speedy helper and suppliant for all hastening to him, is famed in every corner of the earth, in many lands and among many peoples. In many countries, there is, perhaps, not a single city without a church dedicated to him. St Nicholas is the patron of travelers, and we pray to him for deliverance from floods, poverty, or any misfortunes. He has promised to help those who remember his parents, Theophanes and Nonna.

6 Friday, December 4th St. Barbara the Great Martyr Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Sunday, December 6 th St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Saturday, December 12 th St. Spyridon the Wonderworker Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00am Liturgical Calendar Sunday, December 13th 11 th Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Sunday, December 20th Sunday Before Nativity Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Thursday, December 24 th Christmas Eve Royal Hours/Vespers/Liturgy of St. Basil Friday, December 25 Christmas Day Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Sunday, December 27 St. Stephen the First Martyr Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Thursday December 31 New Year s Eve Orthros/Divine Liturgy for St. Basil 6:00 pm Studies in the Faith All Classes from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm (unless otherwise indicated) Monday, December 14 th The Divine Liturgy We will walk through the Divine Liturgy, beginning with the preparatory services of Orthros, Kairos, Vesting, and Preparing the Gifts, and finally all the aspects of the Liturgy. Monday, January 11 th The Liturgical Services We will discuss the various services of the Orthodox Church, their meaning, and their historical development, and the importance of corporate worship. Monday, January 25 th Orthodox Architecture and Iconography We will discuss the meaning, history and theology of Orthodox architecture and Iconography and the various materials used, as well as learn how to read Icons so you will never ask Which Icon is this? again. 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.

7 Parish Ministries Philoptochos Chapter #4019 Christmas Party - December 6-3:00-6:00pm Join us for our annual Christmas Party at the home of Elaine Otto Grove View Cove, Germantown. We will be collecting items for A Bridge of Hope - a local organization helping those who are victims of human trafficking. Please see the flyer attached for more information. The Elpis Board and the members of the Daughters of Penelope will be providing the food. Please RSVP to Elaine Blessing of the Pets - December 12 Bring your family pets to the church on Saturday, December 12th for our annual Blessing of the Pets. Father Simon will read special prayers over all animals in honor of St. Modestos - the patron saint of animals. Coffee, hot cocoa and a light breakfast snack will be provided. Don't miss this! More than a Meal - December 20 3:00-5:00pm We will be serving dinner to those in need at Grace St. Luke's Church in Midtown. Please consider signing up for this service. Sign ups can be made through Cyndi or on the Elpis bulletin board. Christmas Eve Reception - December 24 Elpis will be hosting a reception immediately following the Christmas Eve Services. We are asking for 3-4 ladies to volunteer to bring a few items for the table. Please contact Cyndi if you are interested in providing food. If you are planning to attend the service, please make plans to stay for the reception and celebrate this blessed event with your church family 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. Their dues are complimentary. Please give/send your dues to the Elpis Treasurer, Joy Touliatos, 1555 Cedar Farms Cove, Cordova, TN Save the Date: Vaselopita Sunday - January 3 More than a Meal - January 17 - Cooking and Serving Team Girl's Night Out - Painting at Artist's Compass - January 22 ELPIS Bookstore We will feature items perfect for the holiday season. 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! 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.

8 Young at Heart Please don t forget to RSVP for the wonderful Christmas Luncheon at Chickasaw Country Club! December 15 th, 2015 at 11:30am Cost $25 Contact Sophie Theodore by December 10 th. See Flier for more details Schedule December 15 th - (Tues- Chickasaw Country Club Christmas party) January 21 st - Soup Thursday and Bingo February 18 th - Valentine party with Mike Miller 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: We Celebrated! Congratulations to Father Vieron on his 90 th Birthday! Thank you to all who helped make it a wonderful day! We received donations from the following people in Father Vieron s honor: Father Vieron on the occasion of his 90 th Birthday by James & Nancy Tashie, Vasili & Luane Semos, Steve and Zoe Futris, Costa & Nancy Taras, Athena Jameson, Georgia Karris, Janet & Inga Boosalis, Julie Zdancewicz, Gabriel & Enosis Touliatos, Tina Liollio, Maria Pappas, Tasia Vergos, Demo Kouzounis & family, Maria Hetos, Andrew & Tina Douglas, Sarkis & Jenny Kish

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! Sunday School News and Upcoming Events Sunday School has an immediate need to fill an opening for a Co-Teacher for 3 rd and 4 th grade. Please see Anna Paris for more details. We need parents to volunteer to help with the costumes. If you can, please contact Anna Paris at December 6 th Christmas Program Practice in Senior Classroom December 12 th - Christmas Program Dress Rehearsal after Pet Blessing December 13 th Christmas Program in the Church immediately following Divine Liturgy Sunday School Classes will be suspended for the Christmas and New Year Holidays between and will resume on January 10 th. 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 developmental 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 2015 We thank Mia Obradovic, Constance Poplos and Megan Wassef(even in absence) for sharing their stories and photos about their Summer at Ionian Village at our last meeting. On Dec 6th the Goya will go Christmas caroling. We need to be at the church at 2:30 and will leave promptly at 3. This is open to all Goyans and their younger or older siblings. We will conclude the event at 7pm at the Wassef's home for food and fellowship. Please note that the bus will not be returning to the church. Pick up time is 8 pm. An will go out with an address to the Wassef's home. Due to caroling on the 6th, we will not have our regular meeting after church. We will have our regular meeting on Dec 20th to hear Evan Hoover talk about his experiences in the Crossroad program at Holy Cross this Summer. There is also More than a Meal at Grace St. Lukes at 3pm. December 28th is our joint outing with Nashville. We will attend a Predators hockey game in Nashville. Details TBA December Scheduled Events Christmas Caroling December 6 th More Than a Meal December 20 th Nashville GOYA Outing December 28th Christmas Caroling on December 6 th We currently have 2 stops scheduled for caroling on the 6 th, The Villages and Kirby Pines. That gets us to about 5-5:15. We would love to have some additional stops since we have the bus until 7. If any parishioner would like the Goyans to stop by their house please contact Ted Poplos at

10 4034. We work really cheap, some cookies and juice usually takes care of the bill. Save the Date: 2016 St. Nicholas Summer Camp July Registration will open February/March JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth) We welcome all children (and siblings) ages K-5th grade! We will be meeting in front of the Memphis Zoo to attend Zoo Lights on Saturday, December 19th at 6pm. Hope you all can join us!!! For questions contact Presvytera Stephanie Thomas Annunciation Oratorical Festival February 13, 2016 We are hoping for 100% participation from the Annunciation Youth. If you haven t picked your topic already, please do so in order that you have time to prepare. For any questions, please contact Andrew or Tina Douglas. 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. ============================================================================= 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 from the day after Theophany on January 7 th, until Great Lent begins on March 14 th. If you have any questions, please contact Father Simon in the Church Office.)

11 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 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. One of our many philanthropic endeavors is Penelope House in Mobile, Alabama, which provides safety, protection and support to the victims of Domestic Violence and their children. The Daughters thank all parishioners who came and supported our Soup Sunday on November 15 th. With your generous donations, we have sent Penelope House $700 in support of their important ministry. AHEPA & DOP December Schedule of Events AHEPA Upcoming events: AHEPA will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast to raise money for the St. Nicholas National Shrine at World Trade Center on St. Nicholas Sunday, December 6, 2015 immediately after Divine Liturgy. Donations will be accepted. See flier for more details. The AHEPA Christmas Party will be held at the home of Ted and Stephanie Poplos on Saturday December 12. Cocktails will be served at 6:30 pm followed by dinner at 7:00 pm. Spouses are invited. DOP Upcoming events for December: On Sunday, December 6, the DOP/ELPIS Annual Christmas Party will be held at Elaine Otto s home, at 3pm. The Christmas flyer appears in this Epistle. On Friday and Saturday, December 11 & 12, we meet at church starting at 9:00am, to bake for the Daughters Annual Christmas Bake Sale -- Sunday, December 13, after the Sunday School Program. Come and join us in the baking, if you would like. Shop on Sunday, the 13 th for yummy edible gifts for the teachers, friends and of course your family! You will find your favorites, Kourambiethes and Koulourakia, as well as a variety of our home-baked goodies. (See flyer in this Epistle) All of the Daughters join together wishing all our Annunciation a Blessed Christmas and a Joyous, Happy and Healthy New Year.

12 2015 List of Stewards Thank you to the following 166 families who have submitted their pledge card for 2015! Your stewardship supports the ministries of the Annunciation. Stewardship Cards can be obtained from the Church Office. Abraham, Katherine Allphin, Robert Al-Qawwas, Iskander & Anaston, Zoe Angelakis, Speros Apalodimas, Chris & Connie Apalodimas, Maria Arcamuzi, Michael & Argol, Nick & Anne Avgeris, John & Diane Bagatelas, Todd & Cyndi & Bitinis, Demetra Bookas, John & Deborah Boosalis, Inga Boosalis, Janet Branum, Shawn Buchanan, Angela Bullard, Tim Buring, Jacob & Michele & Caldwell, Richard Capadalis, Emily Carayiannis, Dean & Vickie & Carter, Endy Chagaris, Mary Chelsoi, Catalin & Anca Chiungos, Cary Chulos, John Cooper, Don & Pat Cotros, Charles & Connie Couloubaritsis, George & Laura & Couloubaritsis, Jerry & Julia & family Dedic, Jasmin & Brymer, Bibiana Deitz, George & Wagner, Kristine & Demas, Helen Demopoulos. Chris Demos, Chris & Shawn Dendrinos, George & Bonita Denton, Anna Detty, Greg & Cyndi & Douglas, Andrew & Tina & Drosos, Yiannis Drumea, Ioana Erskine, Bruce & Helen Farrell, Linda & Farris, Phillip & Kellye & Fox, Nick & Marty Fox Futris, Steve & Zoe Futris Jr., Pete & Jan Gallagher, Evangelia Gikas, Bill & Niki Gikas, Joanne Gogonelis, Alex Grantham, Ronald & Patricia Graves, Alan & Renee & Grayes, Theodore Guigley, Kevin & Pannay & Hawkins, Charles & Elizabeth & Herbei, Laurentiu & Mihaela & Herbert, Sandy Hetos, Maria Hong, Tony & Ramona & Hooker, Nathan & Stephanie & Hoover, Ken & Vicki & Horvath, Andrew & Leah Hristopoulou, Koula Jameson, Athena Jennings, Al & Tina & Johnson, John Joyner, Bill & Denise Karas, Jim & Despina Karaziotas, Antonios & Karkatsugas, George Karris, Georgia Kavelaras, Diane Kay, John & Nancy Kay, Maureen & Erin Kennedy, James Khalaf, Nader Kish, Sarkis & Jenny Kollias, Marcy Kolopanas, Bessie Koplin, Jonathan Kronfel, George Lefes, Kalliope Letsou, Peter & Felicity & Liollio, Tina Louza, Samya Maragos, Pete & Amelia & Mavraganis, Gus & Helen McKee, Scott & Weilin Xi and Melonas, Emily Melonas, Peter & Kathryn Meng, James & Susan & Mims, Allen & Lydia & Montgomery, Toni & Moore, Alexis Moore, Michael & Maria Moore, Michael Tommy Morrison, Robert & Kathryn Mosby, Michael & Valerie & Nash, Kathy Nassif, Naji & Rebecca & Nelson, Joanna Nichols, Nick & Linda Nix, Michael & Linda Obradovic, Mitch & Linda & Ogbasion, Asmelash & Asmeret & Otto, Greg & Elaine & Owen, Sterling IV & Papastefan, Demetri Pappas, Alexandra & Paris, Anna Paris, Dorothy Paris, Evangeline Peters, Manual & Mary Beth Peters, Manuel & Susanna Poplos, Ted & Stephanie & Preza, Chrysanthe & Valdimarsson, Einir & Reed, Scott Ruby, Pete Schmitt, Eric & Anne & Semos, Vasili & Luane & Shipman, Daniel Sinis, Harry & Magda & Sinis, Tom & Susan Skefos, Harry & Catherine Skefos, Katherine Skoutakis, Vasilios & Eleni Smith, Jimmy & Georgia Smith, Sheilia If we have mistakenly left your name off, please contact the Church Office! Sousoulas, James & Sophia Stamson, Jerry Joseph & Tiffany Stamson, Pandora Steckler, Steve & Joy Stergios, Frances & Martha Taras, Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras, James Taras, Kosta & Loretta Tashie, David & Christine & Tashie, George & Cecile Tashie, James & Nancy Tashie, John & Tashie, Judd & Debbie & Terranova, Anastasia Theodore, Lee & Yiota Thomas, Fr. Simon & Pres. Stephanie Tingle, Greg & Lorrie & Tobias, Richard & Angela Topolewski, Kimberly Touliatos, Sarah Trif, Maria Varnavas, Cornelia Vergos, Alex Vergos, Anastasia Vergos, Tasia Vergos, Theodore Vieron, Ann Vieron, Fr. Nicholas & Pres. Bess Vieron, Lee Wassef, Magdi & Amira & Wasserman, Maria Wheeler, Helen Whitten, Vasiliki Williams, James & Melinda & Zachary, Nina Zaharopoulos, Nick & Georgia Zambelis, Kathy & Zdancewicz, William & Julie &

13 AHEPA PANCAKE BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER HELP US REBUILD St. Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center Sunday, December 6, 2015 in Cotros Hall immediately following Divine Liturgy Pancakes, Juice and Coffee Suggested Donation $15/family Invite your friends and family

14 Elpis Philoptochos and the Daughters of Penelope invite you to the annual Christmas Party Sunday, December 6, :00-6:00 pm At the home of Elaine Otto 9391 Grove View Cove, Germantown Bring an ornament for the annual ornament exchange. Please bring an item for our Christmas Charity. See the flyer for more information. RSVP to Elaine

15 Blessing of the Animals Saturday, December 12th 11:00 AM Join us in the church parking lot for the blessing of the animals in honor of St. Modestos, the patron saint of animals. - All pets are welcome to come and be blessed by Father Simon Thomas. - Pets will be given a special treat bag. - Monetary donations will be accepted for Sunny Meadows, a local pet rescue organization. - Coffee, hot cocoa and a light breakfast snack will be provided. Please bring your pets crated or leashed.

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18 DECEMBER 2015 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 Greek School 4:00 pm Elpis Board Meeting 6:30 pm 2 Greek School 2:00 pm 3 4 Saint Barbara the Great Martyr Orthros/Diving Liturgy 9:00 am Greek School 4:00 pm 5 Church Decorating 6 St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Sunday School 11:00am AHEPA Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser Parish Council Elections during Breakfast General Assembly following Breakfast GOYA Caroling 3:00 pm ELPIS/DOP Christmas Party 3:00 pm th Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School Christmas Pageant Coffee Hour hosted by Stephanie & Billy Johnson DOP Christmas Bake Sale Athenian Dance Troupe Practice (Juniors 12:30) (Seniors 1:30) 7 Greek School 12:00 Noon 14 Greek School 12:00 Noon Studies in the Faith Class 6:00 pm 8 Greek School 4:00 pm 15 Young At Heart Christmas Luncheon 11:30am at Chicksaw Country Club Greek School 4:00 pm 9 Greek School 2:00 pm 16 Greek School 2:00 pm Parish Council Meeting/Christmas Party 6:00 pm at Ciao Bella 10 Girl Scouts 3:30 pm 11 DOP Cooking for Christmas Bake Sale Greek School 4:00 pm Greek School 4:00 pm 12 St. Spyridon the Wonderworker Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am DOP Cooking for Christmas Bake Sale Blessing of the Animals 11:00 am Christmas Pageant Dress Rehearsal 12 Noon 19 JOY Event Zoo Lights 6:00 pm 20 Sunday before Nativity Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am NO Sunday School today GOYA Meeting 12:00 Noon Coffee Hour hosted by Farris and Melonas families More Than a Meal 3:00 pm 21 Greek School 12:00 Noon 22 Greek School 4:00 pm Christmas Eve Royal Hours/Vespers/Liturgy of St. Basil 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Reception immediately following Liturgy 25HOLY NATIVITY Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am OFFICES CLOSED St. Stephen the First Martyr Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am NO Sunday School today Coffee Hour hosted by Dr. & Mrs. Steve Futris for their 62 nd Anniversary 28 GOYA Trip to Nashville for Predators Game New Year s Eve Orthros/Divine Liturgy for St. Basil 6:00 pm