Our Spiritual Exercise

Transcription

1 The Epistle March 2017 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/ Our Spiritual Exercise This winter was a difficult one for me. I threw my back out on Thanksgiving day, then got sick that Sunday night. I didn t recover fully until after Christmas, and by then I was so far behind on all my work (both at home and the office) that I spent most of my time catching up, which means I didn t spend any time at the gym. So I played racquetball a couple of days ago. Let s just say that I am really out of shape. Taking that much time away has taken its toll on my body, and it is noticeable. It isn t just that I am getting older (and I am getting older), but I have had far too little physical exertion for the past three months and I need to change that. Which brings me to Great Lent, and our spiritual exercise. Just as our body needs its exercise, so too does our soul. Great Lent is the opportunity to get our soul in shape. The extra services provide a beautiful atmosphere for prayer. The fasting helps our self-discipline (not to mention our waistline). Restricting our leisure activities provides more time to read the Bible and other spiritual books. Giving alms (or doing good works) keeps our egos in check. This is an all-around workout that strengthens our core. Like any exercise, we need to ease in to it. My shoulder may not be sore anymore from hitting the ball, but it was for a couple of days. Beginning the Fast may be difficult for many of us, and there may be some internal soreness. That s ok! It may take a few days to get really going. The point is that we keep going. So I encourage you to join me this Lenten Season in our spiritual gym. We meet Wednesday and Friday nights, and most Mondays too. Sundays are of course our biggest session, but we always have plenty of room. There are even lots of activities you can do in the comfort of your own home. And if you need a personal trainer, I am always available. I wish you all a blessed and spiritually rewarding Lenten Season! With Love in Christ, Father Simon

2 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church TED POPLOS - PRESIDENT NAJI NASSIF VICE-PRESIDENT ENDY CARTER - SECRETARY MARIA MOORE - TREASURER CHRIS APALODIMAS DEMIE BITINIS CHANTERS CHOIR DIRECTOR GREEK FESTIVAL GREEK SCHOOL TEACHER PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY PRESIDENT ALTAR GUILD ELPIS BOOKSTORE MAKARIA COORDINATOR MORE THAN A MEAL PRAYER CIRCLE SUNSHINE COMMITTEE VISITATION COMMITTEE REAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP YOUNG AT HEART Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Parish Priest Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Retired ANNUNCIATION PARISH COUNCIL PARISH MINISTRIES BILL JOYNER DIANE KAVELARAS PETE RUBY ROMULUS SALA-STOIAN VASILI SEMOS HARRY SINIS ANDREW HORVATH STEPHANIE POPLOS TODD BAGATELAS DESPINA KARAS CYNDI DETTY LAURA COULOUBARITSIS ANGELA TOBIAS MARIANTHE PILCHER CYNDI DETTY LUANE SEMOS ZOE FUTRIS KRISTINE WAGNER 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 TED POPLOS LEAH & ANDREW HORVATH TED POPLOS & MITCH OBRADOVIC PRESVYTERA STEPHANIE THOMAS KATHY ZAMBELIS & PAUL VIERON ANNA PARIS JOHN KAY PHANI MITCHELL OFFICE PERSONNEL ERIN BOBBITT DE PADILLA 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 I find myself excited about a few things. First, we get to enjoy this beautiful weather and the explosion of flowers and trees, and grass. Each day, it seems that things become even greener. It seems like it will only be a matter of a week or two until the mower needs to come out of hibernation. And yes the days are getting longer. I enjoyed sitting on my patio the other day enjoying the quiet and the sounds of nature surrounding me. Second, we are fast approaching the Lenten period. No I am not overly excited about fasting but will somehow survive it as usual. On March 5 th we once again have the opportunity to host all of the Orthodox churches in Memphis on the Sunday of Orthodoxy. Come and witness our children processing with their icons held high proclaiming that the faith is alive and strong in Memphis. I must admit that this is one of my favorite services due to the fact that we fill the Altar with priests, deacons and acolytes. How wonderful is that to see all of us in unity praying the Liturgy. As we will hear that day in the Gospel reading, Come and see. The first festival workshops took place on February 23 and 24 th. More will be coming soon. I again urge you to come join the party and lend a few hours to help out. Trust me when I tell you that in the midst of the work, there is fun and fellowship. The work on the copper flashing on the church has been completed and the waterproofing of the brick and caulking will start soon. You may notice a large piece of machinery parked in the lot, and that my friends, is a sign of progress in making sure that we are leak free in the church for many years to come. I am very happy to inform all of you that three small fig trees that were cuttings from our old tree have been planted on the North side of the storage sheds near Galloway. We may need to have a few volunteers who will be willing to water them and look after them. Any gardeners out there? Finally, I wish all of you a peaceful and blessed Lent as we prepare ourselves for the feast of all feasts when we celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In His Service, Ted Poplos February 12th Agape Godparent Luncheon

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 Nick, Edna, Helen, Diana, Bob, Alec, Katherine, Maria, Zoe, Pat, Ronnie, Jeffrey, Toni, Sandy, Sophia, Cornelia Volunteers for March Acolytes: Lee Couloubaritsis Austin Detty Jackson Detty Nick Douglas John Eramo Max Graves Ushers 5 Team 1: Maria Moore, Bill Joyner, Pete Ruby 12 Team 2: Naji Nassif, Diane Kavelaras, Demie Bitinis 19 Team 3: Romulus Stoian, Chris Apalodimas 26 Team 4: Endy Carter, Vasili Semos Jonathan Holland Vasili Johnson Jonathan Mehrotra Jack Shipman Abiel Tesfazion Demetri Thomas David Wassef Coffee Fellowship Hosts: 5 Sunday of Orthodoxy hosted by Elpis, DOP & St. John & St. Seraphim 12 Kay Family in memory of Pete James Kay Sr. and Pete James Kay Jr. 19 Greek Independence Day Luncheon hosted by DOP 26 Greeters 5 Sarkis & Jenny Kish 12 Anastasia Terranova & Phani Mitchell 19 Todd & Cyndi Bagatelas 26 Pete & Jan Futris Prosphoro Bakers: 5 Enosis Touliatos 12 Enosis Touliatos 19 Enosis Touliatos 26 Enosis Touliatos February Notices Epistle Readers: 5 Paul Vieron 12 Scott McKee 19 Andrew Douglas 26 Maria Moore 40 Day Memorials: Spyridon D Hallas, father of Maria Hallas, February 5th Baptism: Michael Alexander Schmitt, infant son of Eric & Anne Schmitt, February 25 th Births: Cora Vasiliki Loughman, born to Kevin & Alexia Loughman on February 1 st. She weighed 7 lbs 5 oz and was 20 ½ long.

5 Saint Patrick, Bishop of Armagh and Enlightener of Ireland March 17 th Saint Patrick, the Enlightener of Ireland was born around 385, the son of Calpurnius, a Roman decurion (an official responsible for collecting taxes). He lived in the village of Bannavem Taberniae, which may have been located at the mouth of the Severn River in Wales. The district was raided by pirates when Patrick was sixteen, and he was one of those taken captive. He was brought to Ireland and sold as a slave, and was put to work as a herder of swine on a mountain identified with Slemish in Co. Antrim. During his period of slavery, Patrick acquired a proficiency in the Irish language which was very useful to him in his later mission. He prayed during his solitude on the mountain, and lived this way for six years. He had two visions. The first told him he would return to his home. The second told him his ship was ready. Setting off on foot, Patrick walked two hundred miles to the coast. There he succeeded in boarding a ship, and returned to his parents in Britain. Some time later, he went to Gaul and studied for the priesthood at Auxerre under Saint Germanus. Eventually, he was consecrated as a bishop, and was entrusted with the mission to Ireland, succeeding Saint Palladius. Saint Palladius had not achieved much success in Ireland, and after about a year, he went to Scotland where he died in 432. Patrick had a dream in which an angel came to him bearing many letters. Selecting one inscribed The Voice of the Irish, he heard the Irish entreating him to come back to them. Although Saint Patrick achieved remarkable results in spreading the Gospel, he was not the first or only missionary in Ireland. When he arrived around 432, there were other missionaries who were active on the southeast coast, but it was Saint Patrick who had the greatest influence and success in preaching the Gospel of Christ. Therefore, he is known as The Enlightener of Ireland. Saint Patrick founded many churches and monasteries across Ireland, but the conversion of the Irish people was no easy task. There was much hostility, and he was assaulted several times. He faced danger, and insults, and he was reproached for being a foreigner and a former slave. There was also a very real possibility that the pagans would try to kill him. Despite many obstacles, he remained faithful to his calling, and he baptized many people into Christ. We have authentic writings of Saint Patrick, one of which is the Epistle to Coroticus. In it he denounces the attack of Coroticus men on one of his congregations. In his writings, we can see Saint Patrick s awareness that he had been called by God, as well as his determination and modesty in undertaking his missionary work. He refers to himself as a sinner, the most ignorant and of least account, and as someone who was despised by many. He ascribes his success to God, rather than to his own talents: I owe it to God s grace that through me so many people should be born again to Him. By the time he established his episcopal See in Armargh in 444, Saint Patrick had other bishops to assist him, many native priests and deacons, and he encouraged the growth of monasticism. Saint Patrick is often depicted holding a shamrock, which he used to illustrate the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Its three leaves growing out of a single stem helped him to explain the concept of one God in three Persons. Saint Patrick died on March 17, 461 (while some say as late as 492). It is believed that he was buried on the grounds of Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, Ireland.

6 Liturgical Calendar for March Wednesday, March 1 st Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Friday, March 3 rd Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm Saturday, March 4 th Saturday of Souls Orthros/Divine Liturgy/Memorial Service 9:00 am Sunday, March 5 th Sunday of Orthodoxy Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Monday, March 6 th Great Compline 6:30 pm Wednesday, March 8 th Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Friday, March 10 th Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm Sunday, March 12 th Sunday of Saint Gregory Palamas Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Monday, March 13 th Great Compline 6:30 pm Friday, March 17th Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm Sunday, March 19th Sunday of the Holy Cross Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Wednesday, March 22 nd Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Friday, March 24th Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm Saturday, March 25 th Feast of the Annunciation Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Sunday, March 26 th Sunday of Saint John of the Ladder Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Monday, March 27 th Great Compline 6:30 pm Wednesday, March 29 th Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Friday, March 31 st Akathyst Hymn 6:30 pm Wednesday, March 15 th Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm

7 VISITATION COMMITTEE The following parishioners have requested visitation. Please contact them directly to schedule visitations. For address &/or contact information please check your parish directory or contact the office. Alec Collis Pat Bacopulos Cooper - contact Marianthe Pilcher for visiting arrangements Edna Nichopoulos Zoe Nickas Presvytera Bess Vieron Kosta Taras contact Loretta Taras for Visiting arrangements Visitation Committee Volunteers for March: Linda Nichols & family April: Cary Chiungos & Mary Katherine Taras May: Demie Bitinis, Tricia Grantham & Emily Love June: Despina Karas/Angela Tobias July: Maria Moore & Diane Kavelaras August: Stephanie Poplos & friend September: Susanna Peters, Maria Apalodimas & Cathe Skefos October: Sophie Theodore & Kristine Wagner November: Connie Cotros, Loretta Taras & Tasia Vergos December: Anastasia Terranova & Athena Jameson January: Nancy Tashie, Jan Futris & Tina Liollio February: Vicki Hoover & family Please contact Kristine Wagner if you would like to volunteer to be on the visitation committee. Lenten Lecture Series Wednesday, March 1 st Speaker: Fr. Alex Mackoul, Assistant Pastor, St. John Orthodox Church, Memphis, TN Dinner Hosts: The Thomas Family Wednesday, March 8 th Speaker: Rev. Fr. Angelo Maggos, Presiding Priest, Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, Flint, MI Dinner Hosts: AHEPA and the Men of Annunciation Wednesday, March 15 th Speaker: Rev. Fr. Nicholaos Kotsis, Presiding Priest, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Ann Arbor, MI Dinner Hosts: Daughters of Penelope Wednesday, March 22 nd Speaker: Elizabeth Hawkins, Chaplain at Le Bonheur Children s Hospital Memphis Dinner Hosts: Elpis Philoptochos Wednesday, March 29 th Speaker: TBD Dinner Hosts: Romanian Families Wednesday, April 5 th Speaker: Rev. Fr. Stavros Ballas, Presiding Priest, Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee Dinner Hosts: The Sinis family

8 Parish Ministries Philoptochos, Elpis Chapter #7041 This Sunday, March 5 th is Sunday of Orthodoxy and we will be celebrating with the parishes of St. John and St. Seraphim. We will be hosting the Coffee Hour so please bring a Lenten Dish to share at the table. Wine & Oil are allowed on Sunday. Elpis General Meeting will be held on Saturday March 25 th in Cotros Hall immediately following the Divine Liturgy. Please bring something for the table to share with all those attending the Feast of Annunciation Service. Young at Heart Please join Young at Heart on Thursday, March 16th at 11:30 am in Cotros Hall for a Lenten Luncheon followed by a presentation on Herbs of the Garden! All 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 + are all welcomed to join us! Can't wait to see you there! *Organization Coordinators: Kathy Zambelis: ,Anna Paris: , Sophie Theodore: Young at Heart Valentine Luncheon For more information, please contact Cyndi Detty. February 23rd Elpis Ladies' Night Out ELPIS Bookstore Stop by the Elpis Bookstore for all of your Lenten Needs. We have just received a lot of new stock so there is a wide variety of icons, jewelry, books and gifts for this special time in our church. Looking for new ways to volunteer this year? Work at the bookstore! We are looking for volunteers to help on Sundays from 11:30-12:30. Stop by and talk to Angela Tobias and Connie Apalodimas for more information. 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 sign up on the Coffee Hour Board in Cotros Hall or 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.

9 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! Check out the podcast, Pop Culture Coffee Hour on Ancient Faith Ministries Radio! OCF s Real Break is a one-of-a-kind alternative spring break program for Orthodox high school graduates between years old. The Real Break program provides young adults with the opportunity to understand the true meaning of seeing Christ in the other traveling to all parts of the world deepening their faith, serving those in need, and cultivating relationships with like-minded peers. See the Flier and follow the link for more details: On Facebook: GOA Young Adults On Twitter: GOA_YoungAdults On Instagram: GOA_YoungAdults On Blogger: The Ladder On Pinterest: GOA YoungAdults On Tumblr: GOA Young Adults On YouTube: YOUTUBE.COM/Y2AM If you are interested in being a part of REAL, please contact Alexis Moore at or at alexismoore419@gmail.com. ATHENIAN DANCE TROUPE The Athenian Dance Troupe's mission is to provide dancers with artistic education and immersion in the rich tradition of Hellenic performing arts and dance. A key goal for The Athenian Dance Troupe is to instill in its dancers an enthusiasm for and desire to share the art of Hellenic dance within the Memphis community. We accept dancers into the program starting in 2nd grade. For older children and teenagers interested in joining, no prior dance experience is required. All are welcome! If you have any questions, would like more info, or would like to enroll your child(ren), please contact Father Simon at the Church Office, or the Horvaths. Andrew Horvath andrewmarkhorvath@gmail.com Leah Apalodimas Horvath leahapalodimas@yahoo.com Performances Sunday March 19 Greek Independence Day Luncheon 12:00 Noon Memphis Greek Festival Friday, May 12, 6:00 pm Saturday, May 13, 12:00 Noon & 6:00 pm Practice Schedule Juniors: Saturday March 4 11:30 am 12:00 Noon Saturday March 18 10:00 am 10:45 am Saturday April 22 10:00 am 10:45 am Saturday April 29 10:00 am 10:45 am Saturday May 6 10:00 am 10:45 am Thursday, May 11 5:00 pm 7:30 pm Seniors: Saturday March 4 12:00 Noon 2:00 pm Saturday March 18 11:00 am 1:00 pm Saturday April 8 12:00 Noon 2:00 pm Saturday April 22 11:00 am 1:00 pm Saturday April 29 11:00 am 1:00 pm Saturday May 6 11:00 am 1:00 pm Thursday May 11 5:00 pm 7:30 pm

10 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 except during the Summer and certain Holidays. 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! HOPE/JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth) Mark your calendar for upcoming events: JOY March 25th -Spiritual Education - Celebrate our Parish Feast Day Together! 9:00 am Orthros and Divine Liturgy followed by an Activity coordinated by Renee Graves. April 14th - Spiritual Education- Holy Friday JOY Lenten Youth Retreat Royal Hours (morning service) + Lenten Youth Retreat and Craft + Lunch + Removal of Christ from the Cross (afternoon service) ~PLEASE see sign up genius to sign up to bring food or craft supplies!!! May 6th - Pool Party 2-4pm at Thomas Home 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 subdivided 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 March GOYA News Exciting News! St. Nicholas Summer Camp is moving to a new location, Loucon Training and Retreat Center in Leitchfield, KY this summer. Camp Dates are July 23-29, 2017 and registration begins on March 1 st. Using our CampDoc online registration system, we will begin Camper Registration on March 1, 2017, and we will be accepting Staff Applications very soon. For this year, camper registration fees will remain the same as last year. Financial assistance will be available through the generosity of Leadership 100 and the Friends of the Metropolis. Visit the camp website at for more details. JOY Making Valentines for Shut-Ins

11 GOYA Activities Activity Date Trivia Night March TBD More Than a Meal Grace St. March 19 Luke s Lenten Lock-In April Pascha Lamb Roast April More Than a Meal Grace St. April 16 Luke s Pascha Year-End GOYA Pool Party May TBD More Than a Meal Grace St. May 21 Luke s Other Volunteer/Service Opportunities: 1. Assist with serving and cleanup at luncheons 2. Greek Festival Workshops 3. Greek Festival Ice Cream and Frappe Booth 4. Food Pantry Drive 5. Starry Nights 6. Friends of the Metropolis 7. Project Haiti 8. Ionian Village Recovery Fundraiser GOYA Sooper Bowl Party February 5th

12 PARISH ORATORICAL FESTIVAL Inspiring A report and reflection on this year s St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival By: Paul N. Vieron The 14 young speakers of this year s festival delivered inspiring speeches. Here is a glimpse of their thoughtfully prepared presentations. Elementary Division (grades 4-6) Lee Couloubaritsis, Isabella Donnelly, Nicholas Douglas, Gabriella Graves, Katelyn Shipman, and Elpinike Thomas Lee reminded his listeners that our purpose in life always includes service to others. He explained, Every day you wake up, it s not just another day. It s a gift that God has given you to spread His word. So, use your gifts that God gave you to help other people. Isabella offered a useful history and explanation of The Holy Chrism used during the Mystery of Chrismation. We rejoice that she allowed her presentation to be guided by the gift of The Holy Spirit received at her chrismation. Nicholas discussed how the prosfora bread is prepared for Holy Communion and that we should be prepared to receive this Mystery. He reminded us that, When we receive Holy Communion, we are receiving Jesus Christ Himself. That is why we receive it in a very peaceful and calm manner. The highlight of Gabriella s family trip to the island of Skopolos was climbing the 200 steps needed to access the church located atop the large rock formation from which the steps were hewn. She explained, From the top of the 200 steps you could see all of the beautiful greenery of Skopolos. I got to light a candle in the little narthex of the ornate little church. Katelyn spoke eloquently about The Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit helps us make the right choices, she noted. All in attendance were grateful that The Holy Spirit helped Katelyn choose to share her faith. Elpinike told of the life of the martyred saint for whom she is named. She declared, We should all follow Saint Elpinike s example, staying strong and feeling comfortable talking to others about our Orthodox Christian Faith. We were all pleased that our elementary division speakers felt so comfortable speaking about their Orthodox Christian Faith. I hope they will share again next year! Junior Division (grades7-9) Margaret Couloubaritsis, Austin Detty, Jackson Detty, Sophia Douglas, Katherine Hoover, and Rachel Semos The opening petition of the Divine Liturgy is in peace let us pray to the Lord. Austin, Sophia, and Katherine each skillfully contrasted the peace needed to begin our prayers with the distractions the world presents. Without peace, hardly anything can be accomplished, observed Katherine. Austin would agree. Speaking from experience he shared, the youth of our Metropolis are very fortunate to attend a summer church camp that allows us to fully cleanse our mind without the distractions of the real world. We learn to be peaceful and grow spiritually. These three talented orators forced me to consider the question deftly posed by Sophia at the outset of her presentation: Are you at peace? Really though - Think about it. Jackson, discussing the role of bread in the life of the Church, said, Bread is vital to us as Orthodox Christians. It represents the living presence of Christ. It reminds us of our need for divine and human

13 nourishment. But how many of us listen to our soul when it is hungry? That is why it is important, as Jackson reminded us, to attend church regularly, receiving the holy bread, listening to the prayers. Rachel and Margaret discussed how even small acts of kindness can make a difference. From their personal experiences both young ladies illustrated how service to others can sometimes result in immediate, lasting blessings. Margaret, for example, related how her kind word to a shy kindergarten classmate sitting alone in the playground was the genesis of a friendship that has lasted a lifetime. Rachel summed up the message of these two special speakers: At times it can be hard for us, however, we just must think about others who aren t as blessed as we are and give to them the things that mean most to us, give them our time, give them our love, and most of all give them Christ. It was a blessing to witness each of our junior speakers share their love of Christ Senior Division (grades 10-12) Megan Wassef and Mia Obradovic Explaining how Orthodox Christians should navigate political conversations and make political judgments, Megan asserted, I believe our political judgments should be made with love in mind. Love shapes my political views on immigration, refugees, and marginalized people in general. Miss Wassef also shared, Our Lord tells us love your neighbor as yourself. We must learn to vote and think with our hearts, not just our wallets, In discussing the difference between dieting and fasting, Mia explained, People s motives for starting either a diet or a fast are much different and carry dissimilar weight.beginning a diet is often due to health, but frequently the motivation for dieting is for reasons much more vain. She challenged us to consider this question: Body image is something that many people are concerned with, but what about living in the image of Christ? Living in the image of Christ is a theme woven into the fabric of each of the inspiring speeches delivered at this year s Oratorical Festival. SCHOLARSHIPS As it becomes available, scholarship information can be found at the following links: On the Parish website at On our Facebook page at /.

14 Community Organizations Men s Group/AHEPA The AHEPA men s group will be hosting the Lenten Lecture Dinner for Rev. Fr. Angelo Maggos, Angelo Maggos, Presiding Priest, Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, Flint, MI on Wednesday evening, March 8 th following the Presanctified Liturgy. Daughters of Penelope 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. If you were lucky enough to attend our AGAPE Luncheon on the 12 th, we know you enjoyed a most delicious meal. Our sincere thank you to Chris and Connie Apolodimas for cooking this tasty food. Also, of course, all the worker bees who helped cook and serve thank you too!!! Wasn t it wonderful to hear the names of all the Nounas and Nounos, who were honored at this luncheon? Kathy Z, you did a wonderful job!! I know I enjoyed hearing them remembered and I hope you did too. As usual, a great job was done by the men of AHEPA cooking for the Apokreas. What a great Talent Show we had. How fun was it to have Father Simon performing in his first show! We look forward to seeing him many years to come. And how about all our talented children. Don't we have the BEST ever? Of course, our adults are pretty awesome as well. Thank to everyone who came out to support this fun annual event before we begin our journey through Lent. We are looking forward to our March 25, Greek Independence Day luncheon being held on March 19. We will have presentations by the Greek School along with our Athenian Dancers. The money raised from this luncheon goes to the Dance Group. Did you know the Daughters have a Suitcase with approximately 40 Greek artifacts? This can be checked out and you can take it to your children s school for sharing. It works best for the Sixth Grade student as they are studying Greek History. Each item has its card that gives information about the artifact. Check with any of the Daughter s Board members, if you are interested. As a matter of fact, Anastasia is taking it to Schilling Farms Middle School for her grandson s class and also for Nick Douglas class.

15 Apokreas Dinner & Talent Show February 19th

16 Memphis Greek Festival Our Memphis Greek Festival will be held on Friday and Saturday, May 12 th & 13 th and we ve got lots of work to get done before then. If you can help out at any of the workshops, bring your apron and come right on. The Workshop Schedule is listed below. Please check the parish calendar at for up to date information about the festival. Workshop Schedule March Friday & Saturday Spanakopita 9:00 am 5:00 pm March Thursday & Friday Macaroons 9:00 am 5:00 pm March 31 & April 1 Friday & Saturday Spanakopita 9:00 am 5:00 pm April Thursday & Friday Kourambiethes 9:00 am 5:00 pm May 5-6 Friday & Saturday Sweet Bread 9:00 am - 4:30 pm May 7-8 Sunday & Monday Pre-Pack Days Sunday 12:00 Noon 5:00 pm Monday 9:00 am 5:00 pm May 9 Tuesday Syrup for Galaktoboureko 8:00 am 5:00 pm May 10 Wednesday Chicken Prep 9:00 am 4:00 pm Meat Skewering 3:00 until May 11 Thursday Galaktoboureko Assembly 8:00 am 5:00 pm

17 YOUNG AT HEART MARCH LUNCHEON Thursday March 16 th 11:30 am Cotros Hall COME JOIN US FOR A LENTEN LUNCHEON AND A GUEST SPEAKER WHO WILL TEACH US ABOUT VARIOUS HERBS OFTHE GARDEN! All 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 + all welcome to join us! Looking forward to seeing YOU!

18 Join us for the Elpis General Meeting Saturday, March 25th after Liturgy Fellowship Hall Please bring something for the table to share with all those attending the Feast of Annunciation service. Hope to see you there! Can t make the whole meeting... stop by, sign in and pick up a meeting review.

19 F R I E N D S O F T H E M E T R O P O L I S 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 MORE INFO AT: 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. Hellenism Develop programs for Hellenic Cultural Outreach, including language, history, and arts. 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. Special Programs Continued website development, hospitality to visiting dignitaries, charity and philanthropy. F R I E N D S I N F O R M A T I O N Please print the following required details. P A Y M E N T I N F O R M A T I O N Make checks payable to Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit. Name Credit Card Check Money Order Address Credit Card No. City State Zip Expiry CVC No. Mobile No. Total in $ Parish Name City/State Signature Fill out this card and send it with payment to: Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit Crooks Road - Troy, MI 48084

20 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 List of Stewards *Robert Allphin *NIgisti Amdetsion & Aklilu Maasho & family Zoe Anaston Chris & Connie Apalodimas Maria Apalodimas Michael & Annie Archamuzi & family John & Diane Avgeris *Todd & Cyndi Bagatelas & family *Demetra Bitinis *John & Deborah Bookas *Janet Boosalis *Shawn Branum *Angela Buchanan Claude Burdikoff Jacoby & Michele Buring *Endy Carter *Mary Chagaris *Cary Chiungos Pat Cooper * Jerry & Julia Couloubaritsis & family *Elaine Daniels *Alexander & Sangeeta Deitz *George Deitz & Kristine Wagner *Chris Demopoulos Chris & Shawn Demos Anna Denton Greg & Cyndi Detty & family Andrew & Christina Douglas & family *Vasilios & Georgia Douklias Yiannis Drosos Bruce & Helen Erskine Linda Farrell *Nick & Marty Fox Pete & Jan Futris *Steve & Zoe Futris *Evangelia Gallagher Kalovan Getev *Bill & Niki Gikas *Joanne Gikas *Alex Gogonelis Ronald & Patricia Grantham & family *Alan & Renee Graves & family Kevin & Pannayiota Guigley & family *Maria Hallas *Sarantos & Catherine Hatzigeorgiou *Charles & Elizabeth Hawkins & family Laurentiu & Mihaela Herbei & family *Sandy E Herbert *Maria Hetos Monica & Evan Hinson Spence Holland Nathan & Stephanie Hooker *Ken & Vicki Hoover & family Tina Horne Andrew & Leah Horvath & family Koula Hristopoulou *Marcus & Cristina Hunter & family Dorothy Huston *Athena Jameson *Al & Tina Jennings *Bill & Denise Joyner Jim & Despina Karas *George Karkatsugas Georgia Karris *Diane Kavelaras *John & Nancy Kay *James Kennedy Nader Khalaf *Sarkis & Jenny Kish Regina Kolaitis Bessie Kolapanas *Marcy Kollias *Kalliope G Lefes Tina Liollio Kevin & Alexia Loughman Samya Louza *Tom & Emily Love Yolanta Matika

21 *Scott McKee & Weilin Xi & family *John Robert McNulty & Nicole Fox Emily Melonas Peter & Kathryn Melonas James & Susan Meng Allen & Lydia Mims & family Mary Toni Montgomery & family *Alexis Moore *Mike & Maria Moore *Tommy & Kyndall Moore *Robert & Kathy Morrison Michael & Valerie Mosby *Naji & Rebecca Nassif & family Michael & Linda Nix *Mitch & Linda Obradovic & family Asmelash & Asmeret Ogbasion & family Gregory & Elaine Otto *Evangelia Panas *Demetri Papastefan Alexandra Pappas Maria Pappas *Anna Paris *Evangeline Paris Dennis & Odette Patrikios Basil & Bethany Paulus * Manual & Mary Beth Peters Manuel & Susanna Peters Derek & Marianthe Pilcher *Ted & Stephanie Poplos & family John & Maria Poulos *Chrysanthe Preza & Einir Valdimarsson & family Elizabeth Ramage Melissa Ramage * Scott Reed Pete Ruby Albis Samonides *Eric & Anne Schmitt & family *Vasili & Luane Semos & family As of February 28, 2017: 2017 Stewardship Cards 79 Stewards 154 Amount Pledged - $132, Amount Received to date - $40, Amount Received in February - $13, Harry & Magda Sinis & family Tom & Susan Sinis *Harry & Cathe Skefos *Katherine Skefos Vasilios & Eleni Skoutakis *Jimmy & Georgia Smith *James & Sophie Sousoulas Thomas & Stasia Spentzas & family Pandora Stamson Steve & Joy Steckler Romulus & Camelia Stoian Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras James Taras *Kosta & Loretta Taras *David & Christine Tashie *George & Cecile Tashie *James & Nancy Tashie *John Tashie Judd & Debbie Tashie Rick Taylor *Anastasia Terranova Amanuel & Brur Tesfazion & family *Lee & Yiota Theodore *Sophie Theodore *Fr. Simon & Presvytera Stephanie Thomas & family Richard & Angela Tobias Sarah Touliatos *Alex Vergos John & Ellen Vergos *Tasia Vergos Theodore Vergos Nicholas & Bess Vieron *Magdi & Amira Wassef & family *Maria Wasserman *Vasiliki Whitten *Nick & Georgia Zaharopoulos *Michael & Kathy Zambelis William & Julie Zdancewicz & family As of February 29, Stewardship Cards 75 Stewards 149 Amount Pledged 131, Amount Received to date - $48, Amount Received in February - $21,111.51

22 MARCH 2017 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Lenten Lecture & Dinner 7:00 pm 2 Girl Scouts 4:15 pm 3 Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm 4Saturday of Souls Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Athenian Dancers Juniors 11:30 am Seniors 12:00 Noon 5 Sunday of Orthodoxy Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am NO Sunday School today GOYA Meeting 12:00 Special Coffee Hour hosted by Elpis along with DOP, St. John and St. Seraphim Churches 12 Sunday of Saint Gregory Palamas Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Daylight Savings Time begins today Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am Coffee Hour hosted by the Kay family in memory of Pete James Kay, Sr. & Pete James Kay, Jr. 6 Great Compline 6:30 pm Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30 pm 13 Great Compline 6:30 pm Fr. Vieron s Adult Greek Class 6:30 pm 7 8 Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Lenten Lecture & Dinner 7:00 pm 14 Bible Study 6:30 pm 15 Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Lenten Lecture & Dinner 7:00 pm 9 10 Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm 16 Young at Heart Luncheon 11:30 am Girl Scouts 4:15 pm Adult Greek Class Sanctuary Tour & Greek Night 17 Festival Workshop Spanakopita Prep 9:00 am Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm 11 Church and Hall Reserved 18 Festival Workshop Spanakopita Prep 9:00 am Athenian Dance Troupe Practice: Juniors 11:30 am Seniors 12:00 Noon 19 Sunday of the Holy Cross Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am GOYA Meeting 12:00 Noon Greek Independence Day Luncheon (Athenian Dance Troupe performing) More Than a Meal Serving Team 3:00 pm 26 Sunday of Saint John of the Ladder Orthros 8:45 AM Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Nursery Available 9:30 am Sunday School 11:00 am Coffee Hour Open 20 Parish Council Meeting 6:15 pm Fr. V Adult Greek Class 6:30 pm 27 Great Compline 6:30 pm Fr. V Adult Greek Class 6:30 pm Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Lenten Lecture & Dinner 7:00 pm 28 Bible Study 6:30 pm 29 Service of the Ninth Hour 5:30 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Lenten Lecture & Dinner 7:00 pm 23 Festival Workshop Macaroons 9:00 AM 30 Girl Scouts 4:15 pm 24 Festival Workshop Macaroons 9:00 AM Salutations to the Virgin Mary 6:30 pm 31 Lenten Youth Retreat: Holy Trinity (Nashville) Festival Workshop Spanakopita Prep 9:00 am Akathyst Hymn 6:30 pm 25 Feast of the Annunciation Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9:00 am JOY Spiritual Education 11:00 am