August Volume 9, Issue 8

Transcription

1 August 2014 Volume 9, Issue 8 August 2014 Page

2 Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 900 6th Street Sioux City, Iowa Church Office Rev. Fr. Dimitri Tobias, Proistamenos Telephone: Office Fax: Parish Council President: John Bostinelos Worship Hours: Sundays: Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Weekdays: Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Esperinos: For Major Feasts 6:00 p.m. Thursdays: Paraklisis Service 6:00 p.m. Sunday School: (During School Year) Following Holy Communion Greek School: (During School Year) Wednesdays from 4:30 5:30 p.m. Greek Dance: (During School Year) Wednesdays from 5:30 6:00 p.m. Bible Study: Thursdays from 8:30 9:30 a.m. Blessed Darkness (Adult Education): Thursdays from 7:00 8:00 p.m. August 2014 Page 2

3 Table of Contents Registry Page 4 Father s Message Page 5 President s Message Page 6 Philoptochos Page 7 Stewardship Page 8-9 Clergy Laity Page Services Page Thank You Page 16 Church & Metropolis News Page 16 Calendar Page 17 Church Staff Parish Priest/ Editor: Rev. Fr. Dimitri Tobias Parish Council President: John Bostinelos Office Volunteer: Mary Sharp Philoptochos President: Mary Baryo Greek School Director: Janet Antonopoulos Youth Directors: Dean & Amy Karras Stewardship: John Vlahoulis O.P.A. Shanda Antonopoulos Peter K. Ladeas Cancer Support Group Sonia Jones Trip Page Outeach Project Page Prosforo Page Coffee Hour Page 24 ABRAHAM S PANTRY: Please donate! Foods from Abraham s Pantry are distributed to the local Food Pantries to feed the poor. Check the expiration Date!!! Abraham served the best he had. If we would not eat it, why should we expect someone else to risk getting sick? August 2014 Page 3

4 Registry and Vital Statistics Baptisms: On July 12 Emmanuel Boucher was Baptized His Godmother is Leah Baryo Chrismations: Weddings: Funerals Να ζή σετε! Να εί στε ευτυχίσμε νοί! ζωή σε σας We Welcome the following new families to the Parish! Now is the time to reach out to your loved ones who have fallen away for whatever reason and bring them back to Church. Now is the time to share your faith with others! Together we must grow. Together we must build the Body of Christ. Invite someone to a service, to a Bible Study, to a Church Event. We have one of the friendliest communities in the Archdiocese. Let us go out so that they will know we are Christians by our Love. August 2014 Page 4

5 Father Dimitri s Message My Brothers and Sisters in Christ, If you have ever been to Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Tunica, or any of the number of large Casinos throughout the country, the little Argosy Casino might seem extremely small in comparison, yet a parishioner told me that last year that casino brought in more than 300 million dollars. Penn National claimed its Argosy casino employs more than 300 people and generates $56 million in revenue a year. (Sioux City Journal). Regardless of the disparate facts, the real issue remains that a town that has 120,000 people, that would mean we average almost $500 a person towards that casino. Given that a majority of people in Sioux City are not gambling, and given that the vast majority of our population is Blue Collar workers, it stands to reason that a good many citizens are cashing their paychecks at the casino, praying for a big win, wracking up debt, and destroying their families. Some might say that the casinos give back. This may be true, but given the destruction to families, personal finances, and the extra burden of counselors, divorces, and legal fees, is it really that much of a boon? With the opening of the Hard Rock Casino this month, I am filled with dread. This monument to sin will truly hurt our fair city. I speak not just for the temptation facing our flock, but for what it will do to those with problems. Gambling has been categorically denounced by Scripture, Tradition, and Church Fathers. I remain your servant in Christ, So what is gambling then? Gambling means to place your fate in chance. This might seem strange, given our Lord seems to not want us to make plans, but rather rely on His will, but we must understand that when we rely on the roll of a dice for our future, we are forsaking responsibility and we are also living foolishly. To play some games with a set amount of money is not gambling so much as expensive entertainment. While it is a waste of money, it does not carry the same weight of sin. We know the difference... By this same line of thought, many Churches promote gambling, either through raffles, or in some churches, Monte Carlo Night. A savvy Christian stated, Having gambling sponsored by a Church is no less ridiculous than having a fillet mignon luncheon on Palm Sunday. It makes us hypocrites! It is for this reason that I asked this year be the last year we have a raffle associated with our Church. Stewardship and hard work are how our Church will continue by God s Grace. If we feel we have to break His laws to keep our doors open, we are fooling ourselves. More than language, I want strangers to our Church to see a consistency with our message and the ground upon which we stand. I am sure the new Casino will be very successful, and perhaps some of the shows it brings to Sioux City will help our economy, but I invite us all to pray for the strength of the weak, and that the Good Shepherd helps those with addiction. Please visit our website! Listen to classes, sermons, reflections online Fr. Dimitri Tobias, Proistamenos August 2014 Page 5

6 President s Message I do not recall a funeral that had so many guests in attendance as Michael Davenports did. I was awed by the attendance. You have to wonder why. The deceased was not famous nor was he wealthy nor did he hold a position of power. He had what I think we all try to achieve; that is self respect and an innate kindness to others. He touched many people in his life in a positive way. Thinking back to the recent Festival and other fund raisers; I m often amused by the petty arguments that occur. We all think in our minds that our way is the only way. The only absolutes that I can think of are The Ten Commandments. Of course there are taxes and death but we can t do much about those things either. There are many ways to accomplish our goals and it s not always our way. Yes, we all have an idea but so do others. Our way may be a good way but it may not be the best way. So lets take the time to listen to others ideas and see if one can concede a point or two. Saturday In The Park went well again for us. We felt we should have done a little better based on the crowd in attendance. We did, however, come within a few hundred dollars of last years revenue. Crowds are fickle so you never know whether they ll respond to our efforts. Looking ahead, we have the annual church picnic coming up, the General Assembly, and Board elections. You have an opportunity to run for the Board. You have something to give to the Board that isn t there now. You can give you thoughts and ideas and your time and your talent for the betterment of our church. Let s have a full slate of members wanting to be on the Board. John Bostinelos 2014, Parish Council President August 2014 Page 6

7 Philoptochos News Below please see a short message from our local Philoptochos Delegate to the National Clergy Laity Conference, Dr. Fotene Gennatos. It was held in Philadelphia, PA in July. We thank Fotene for taking the time, effort and expense to attend the conference. She is prepared to give us more information at our next Philoptochos meeting. Wow! What an exhilarating experience being a first time national Philoptochos delegate (a first for Sioux City). From July 6-9th 2014, I represented the Holy Trinity Myrofores chapter in Philadelphia for the National Philoptochos Society convention. The theme of the convention: The Orthodox Christian Family: A Dwelling of Christ and a Witness of His Gospel speaks directly to the good works of the Philoptochos women. As I witnessed in the discussions and deliberations, our service to others affects not only individuals but entire families. This theme also challenges us that through our future endeavors we must become more mindful and respond to those in need, offering the warmth of family. Over the next 4 days of the convention, we shared common experiences, listened to innovative programs and ideas, and strengthened and made new bonds with fellow Sisters in Christ. From a very moving video as a tribute to war veterans created by Philoptochos stewards, to a panel discussion on mental health issues in the Orthodox community, to a presentation on the traditional Greek diet, family was at the center of our programs. Throughout the conference, each metropolis shared a Chapter Challenge project that not only inspired and increased fellowship in their own communities but inspired the rest of us. From this conference, I take back ideas and enthusiasm on how to continue this Philoptochos legacy of love. Each year we pay our membership to Philoptochos and fundraise for national causes but actually seeing and hearing the stories of the recipients of our local efforts gives you a greater sense of belonging to this amazing and progressive group of women Personally, I came back with deeper understanding and respect for the philanthropic ethos that has characterized this ministry for generations. -Dr. Fotene Gennatos, National Philoptochos Assembly Representative of Holy Trinity Mary Baryo 2014, Philoptochos President August 2014 Page 7

8 Stewardship Time-Talent-Treasure I went over to see my granddaughter the other night. Addilyn (Addi) is now 2yrs old and WOW! Is she starting to grow! She is at the age where everything is still gibberish but she is beginning to make some- if even just a tiny bit - sense. To listen to them is such a joy.to try to converse with them is priceless. Their views are so innocent. She was so excited to see Papou and Super Yiayia (her great grandmother) come to see her. We usually go over every week or so to see her, however, this time seemed a little different. She was different. Her hair was longer, she was taller, looked a little older, talking more or at least trying. She had so much to say, to tell us about various things her new swimming pool, the dogs, how much she loves her Mommy & Daddy, and of course we can t forget the Mac & Cheese she loves sooo much! (She had this BIG cheesy grin on her face when she said it!) I thought to myself John, you are a very lucky man. We, the Stewards of Holy Trinity are lucky also. Lucky to have a place that nurtures us, feeds us just like a parent or grandparent nurtures a child. Just as the Theotokos nurtures her Son, we are nourished by the church. Our spiritual life needs to be nourished with Food for the Soul just as a child is nourished by their parents. The church is THE place that can offer many different types of Spiritual Nourishment for those that are hungry. It won t be long now and things will soon be back in school mode. Not too long after school starts the new Ecclesiastical year begins. Let us, through a Stewardship Commitment of Time, Talent & Treasure to Holy Trinity, take full advantage of the table of Spiritual Nourishment that has been set for us. With the many opportunities made available to us through our various services, ministries and activities, it is my sincere wish that each one of us fills our plate with the Spiritual Nourishment provided for us. Next: Treasure John Vlahoulis Stewardship Chair August 2014 Page 8

9 Stewardship Time-Talent-Treasure Fr. Dimitri & Mary Tobias Dr. & Dr. Kosta Antonopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Perry Antonopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Tony Antonopoulos Mr. & Mrs. John Baryo Mr. Tom Baryo Ms. Leah Baryo Mr. & Mrs. Sid Baumert Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Bikakis Mr. Louie Bitsos Mr. & Mrs. Dimitri Bostinelos Mr. & Mrs. John Bostinelos Mr. & Mrs. Greg Boucher Mr. & Mrs. Pete Bovis Mr. & Mrs. George Demetroulis Mr. & Mrs. Kosta Demetroulis Mrs. Georgia Diavastes Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Eliades Mrs. Mary Eliades Mr. & Mrs. Vasilaki Emanuel Mr. Nick Fondoulakis Mrs. Cula Fondoulakis Mr. Vaios Gennatos Mrs. Anna Giasafakis Mrs. Becky Gidas Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Haddad Mr. & Mrs. Bill Holevas Mr. Christos Iordanou Mr. & Mrs. Rick Jones Mrs. Fotene Karantinos Mr. & Mrs. Dean Karras Mr. & Mrs. Alex Karras Mr. & Mrs. Nick Kasotakis Mr. & Mrs. Dave Kjos Mrs. Bessie Klimiades Mr. & Mrs. George Klimiades Holy Trinity Stewards Mr. & Mrs. Tim Konidas Mr. & Mrs. Pete Konidas Ms. Anna Kounas Mr. & Mrs. Chris Kounas Mr. & Mrs. John Kounas Mr. & Mrs. Harry Kouris Mr. Spero Kritis Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ladeas- Conyers Mrs. Stephanie Lanzourakis Mr. John Lazaris Mrs. Kathy Lieding Mr. & Mrs. Lyle Listamann Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Margeas Mrs. Daisy Margeas Mr. & Mrs. Steve Margeas Mr. Bill Margellos Mr. Chris Margellos Mr. & Mrs. Tim Margellos Mr. & Mrs. Ray McAvoy Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Michelakakis Mr. & Mrs. Ted Mihelakakis Mr. & Mrs. Dale Milbrodt Mr. & Mrs. George Paradise Mr. & Mrs. Michael Paradise Mrs. Betty Pavlushik Mrs. Despina Poulos Mrs. Antonette Prewitt Mrs. Georgia Reusch Mrs. Maria Rigas Mr. & Mrs. Roger Schultz Mr. & Mrs. Zachary Schultz Mrs. Afrodity Segos Mrs. Nancy Selliris Mr. & Mrs. Richard Sharp Mr. & Mrs. Spero Siganos Mrs. Anna Theros Dr. & Mrs. Richard Tobias Mr. & Mrs. Costa Tsiobanos Mr. & Mrs. George Tsiobanos Mr. George Vlahoulis Mrs. Joan Vlahoulis Mr. John Vlahoulis Mr. Spero Vlahoulis Mr.Spyridon Yianopoulos August 2014 Page 9

10 Clergy Laity Report Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love... and Sisterly Affection... are the words that greeted the guests at the 42nd Biennial Clergy-Laity Conference in Philadelphia on July The theme of the congress was, "The Orthodox Christian Family: A Dwelling of Christ and a Witness of His Gospel." This theme was selected so that we can all continue to expand our focus on our families and our homes and to help us consider how we can help strengthen, nurture and guide families in our own parishes. We also learned that families must be connected to God for the life, well-being and potential of the family and each of its members. The week started out with a pilgrimage of hundreds of the faithful walking eight blocks from our hotel to the St. George Cathedral in downtown Philadelphia, led by a police escort. The Liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop Demetrios of America and all of the Metropolitans and bishops from across the country. Along with the beautiful joint choir from several of the local parishes and 34 altar boys, it was truly an awe-inspiring experience, even though it lasted four hours! We were able to do a little historic sight-seeing Sunday afternoon, including a visit to Independence Hall to see the Liberty Bell and to witness where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. During the week we attended many ministry workshops and seminars, including Outreach & Evangelism, Reaching the Distantly Connected, Stress & Resilience in the Family, and Faith & Family: Building Generations of Faith. In addition to lecture seminars, during the interactive workshops participants were able to share what ministries in their parishes have been helpful in reaching out to the family. For Monday evening's activity we were bussed to a huge Greek festival for all of the 1,500 attendees, with two bands, enough Greek food and desserts to serve the whole city of Philadelphia, and entertainment by Greek comedians Ellen Karis and Basile. Following all of that, there was a spectacular fireworks display over the Delaware River. Wednesday evening's Grand Banquet Mistress of Ceremonies was Andrea Mitchell, NBC News Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent, with the keynote address by Joseph Biden, Vice President of the United States. We participated, learned, shared, connected with friends, and came home truly inspired to continue our mission of reaching out to others and to help our Holy Trinity family remain vibrant, strong and connected, so that our families can be what God created them to be! Maria Schultz National Clergy Laity Representative of Holy Trinity August 2014 Page 10

11 August 2014 Page 11

12 Esperinos & Divine Liturgy for the Transfiguration of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Monday, August 5 at 6:00 p.m. and Tuesday, August 6 at 9:00 a.m. Our Lord had spoken to His disciples many times not only concerning His Passion, Cross, and Death, but also concerning the coming persecutions and afflictions that they themselves would endure. Since all these evils were near at hand, but the enjoyment of good things which they hoped to receive in their stead was yet to come, our Savior desired to give them full assurance, evidently and openly, concerning that glory which is prepared for those who endure to the end. Therefore, fulfilling that which He had promised shortly before, that "there be some standing here which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in His Kingdom" (Matt. 16:28), He took His three foremost disciples and ascended Mount Tabor, where He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as the light. Suddenly, together with this dread and marvelous effulgence of light, there appeared those pinnacles of the Prophets, Moses and Elias, who spoke with the Lord Jesus concerning His saving Passion which was about to take place. Standing before Him as reverent servants, they showed that He is the Lord of both the living and the dead, for Moses came forth from Hades, having died many centuries before, and Elias, as it were from heaven, whither he had been taken up while yet alive. After a little while a radiant cloud overshadowed them and out of the cloud they heard that same voice which had been heard at the Jordan at the Baptism of Christ, testifying to the Divinity of Jesus and saying: "This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well-pleased; hear ye Him" (Matt. 17: 5). Such are the marvels, truly worthy of God, celebrated in this present feast, which is an image and prefiguring of the future state of the righteous, whose splendor the Lord spoke of, saying: "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun" (Matt. 13:43). It is because of this that the Kontakion of this Feast is said daily (when there is not a great feast) in the Service of the Typica in perpetual commemoration of the glory that will be the lot of the Saints. According to tradition, the Lord's Transfiguration came to pass forty days before His Crucifixion; this is why the Transfiguration is celebrated forty days before the Exaltation of the Cross. Apolytikion in the Grave Tone You were transfigured on the Mount, Christ God revealing Your glory to Your disciples, insofar as they could comprehend. Illuminate us sinners also with Your everlasting light, through the intercessions of the Theotokos. Giver of light, glory to You. Kontakion in the Grave Tone You were transfigured upon the mount, O Christ our God, and Your disciples, in so far as they could bear, beheld Your glory. Thus, when they see You crucified, they may understand Your voluntary passion, and proclaim to the world that You are truly the effulgence of the Father. August 2014 Page 12

13 Esperinos & Divine Liturgy for the Dormition of the Theotokos Wednesday, August 14 at 6:00 p.m. and Thursday August 15 at 9:00 a.m. Concerning the Dormition of the Theotokos, this is what the Church has received from ancient times from the tradition of the Fathers. When the time drew nigh that our Savior was well-pleased to take His Mother to Himself, He declared unto her through an Angel that three days hence, He would translate her from this temporal life to eternity and bliss. On hearing this, she went up with haste to the Mount of Olives, where she prayed continuously. Giving thanks to God, she returned to her house and prepared whatever was necessary for her burial. While these things were taking place, clouds caught up the Apostles from the ends of the earth, where each one happened to be preaching, and brought them at once to the house of the Mother of God, who informed them of the cause of their sudden gathering. As a mother, she consoled them in their affliction as was meet, and then raised her hands to Heaven and prayed for the peace of the world. She blessed the Apostles, and, reclining upon her bed with seemliness, gave up her all-holy spirit into the hands of her Son and God. With reverence and many lights, and chanting burial hymns, the Apostles took up that Godreceiving body and brought it to the sepulchre, while the Angels from Heaven chanted with them, and sent forth her who is higher than the Cherubim. But one Jew, moved by malice, audaciously stretched forth his hand upon the bed and immediately received from divine judgment the wages of his audacity. Those daring hands were severed by an invisible blow. But when he repented and asked forgiveness, his hands were restored. When they had reached the place called Gethsemane, they buried there with honor the all-immaculate body of the Theotokos, which was the source of Life. But on the third day after the burial, when they were eating together, and raised up the artos (bread) in Jesus' Name, as was their custom, the Theotokos appeared in the air, saying "Rejoice" to them. From this they learned concerning the bodily translation of the Theotokos into the Heavens. These things has the Church received from the traditions of the Fathers, who have composed many hymns out of reverence, to the glory of the Mother of our God (see Oct. 3 and 4). Apolytikion in the First Tone In birth, you preserved your virginity; in death, you did not abandon the world, O Theotokos. As mother of life, you departed to the source of life, delivering our souls from death by your intercessions. Kontakion in the Second Tone Neither the grave nor death could contain the Theotokos, the unshakable hope, ever vigilant in intercession and protection. As Mother of life, He who dwelt in the ever-virginal womb transposed her to life. August 2014 Page 13

14 Divine Liturgy for the St. Phanourios Thursday August 27 Orthros begins at 9:00 a.m. Little is known of the holy Martyr Phanourios, except that which is depicted concerning his martyrdom on his holy icon, which was discovered in the year 1500 among the ruins of an ancient church on Rhodes, when the Moslems ruled there. Thus he is called "the Newly Revealed." The faithful pray to Saint Phanurius especially to help them recover things that have been lost, and because he has answered their prayers so often, the custom has arisen of baking a Phanouropita ("Phanourios-Cake") as a thanks-offering. Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone A heavenly song of praise is brightly sung on the earth; * the hosts of the Angels keep an earthly festival now in splendor and radiant joy; * from on high, they praise with hymns the suff'rings and struggles; * and below, the Church doth laud the heavenly glory * thou foundest by thy contests and pains, O glorious Phanourios. Kontakion in the Third Tone From a vile captivity, thou didst deliver the Lord's priests, and, O godly-minded one, didst break their bonds by divine might; thou didst bravely shame the tyrants' audacious madness, giving joy unto the Angels, O thou Great Martyr. O Phanurius most glorious, we all revere thee as a true warrior of God. Easy St. Phanourios Bread Fasting (with oil) Preheat oven to cup sugar 2. 1 cup oil 3. 2 cups orange juice 4. 3/4 cup raisins 5. 3/4 cup chopped walnuts 6. 1 tsp. baking soda 7. 4 cups flour Mix oil and sugar, and beat until it's a creamy yellow. This may take a long time. Put the baking soda IN the orange juice, and stir until dissolved. [NB: this can be spectacularly dramatic if you use a two cup measuring cup with two cups of o.j. in it. (Please don't ask how I found out.) It might be easier to hold a two cup measuring cup OVER the bowl full of oil and sugar and pour in *one* cup of o.j., mix in 1/2 tsp. baking soda, watch the fireworks, pour it into the bowl, and again mix *one* cup of o.j. with 1/2 tsp. baking soda, stir and pour again. If you don't dissolve the baking soda completely, you get lumps of it in the cake. So, stir well.] Add the flour, then the raisins and nuts. Pour the batter into an ungreased 9"x13" pan and bake at 350 degrees F. for 45 minutes (or until a clean toothpick dipped in the cake emerges clean.) I use a bundt pan instead of one 9" x 13", and my kids prefer this with chocolate chips in the place of the raisins and nuts. It doesn't really need a frosting, but if you wanted to drizzle a stiff glaze made out of, say, powdered sugar and lemon juice and a little water over it, that would be okay, too. If you wanted to put spices in the batter, I'd go with a tiny amount (1/4 tsp. or less) of ground cloves. Modified from a recipe in Greek Traditions and Customs in America, by Marilyn Rouvelas Fancy St. Phanourios Bread (Phanouropita) Not even close to fasting! This recipe originally came from a cookbook for a Greek parish in Chicago, but I've tampered with it, mostly by editorializing. Doubles well; the recipe given is for one loaf pan worth, but Doubled it makes a bundt pan's worth. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a large, heavy bottomed saucepan, combine: 1. 1 cup orange juice 2. 1/2 cup brandy 3. 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter 4. 1/2 teaspoon salt 5. 2 cups golden raisins 6. 3/4 cup sugar 7. 1/2 cup honey 8. 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon 9. 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for exactly ten minutes -- any longer, and you'll have a good caramelized smelling door stop instead of a cake. Set pot in cold water to cool mixture completely. Sift into cooled syrup: 1. 2 cups all-purpose flour 2. 2 teaspoons double-acting baking powder 3. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Beat vigorously for eight to ten minutes (Takes muscles! We use a wooden spoon for this) or until batter is smooth and bubbly. Stir in: 2 Tablespoons grated orange peel Turn into well greased 7" fluted pan or 8" loaf pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 sesame seeds (optional; skip if you like). Bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup brandy and cool cake in pan. Bring to church to have blessed, and then share with parishioners or the poor. Smells amazingly wonderful while cooking. August 2014 Page 14

15 Divine Liturgy for the Beheading of the Holy and Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John Thursday August 29 Orthros begins at 9:00 a.m. The divine Baptist, the Prophet born of a Prophet, the seal of all the Prophets and beginning of the Apostles, the mediator between the Old and New Covenants, the voice of one crying in the wilderness, the God-sent Messenger of the incarnate Messiah, the forerunner of Christ's coming into the world (Esaias 40: 3; Mal. 3: 1); who by many miracles was both conceived and born; who was filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother's womb; who came forth like another Elias the Zealot, whose life in the wilderness and divine zeal for God's Law he imitated: this divine Prophet, after he had preached the baptism of repentance according to God's command; had taught men of low rank and high how they must order their lives; had admonished those whom he baptized and had filled them with the fear of God, teaching them that no one is able to escape the wrath to come if he do not works worthy of repentance; had, through such preaching, prepared their hearts to receive the evangelical teachings of the Savior; and finally, after he had pointed out to the people the very Savior, and said, "Behold the Lamb of God, Which taketh away the sin of the world" (Luke 3:2-18; John 1: 29-36), after all this, John sealed with his own blood the truth of his words and was made a sacred victim for the divine Law at the hands of a transgressor. This was Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch of Galilee, the son of Herod the Great. This man had a lawful wife, the daughter of Arethas (or Aretas), the King of Arabia (that is, Arabia Petraea, which had the famous Nabatean stone city of Petra as its capital. This is the Aretas mentioned by Saint Paul in II Cor. 11:32). Without any cause, and against every commandment of the Law, he put her away and took to himself Herodias, the wife of his deceased brother Philip, to whom Herodias had borne a daughter, Salome. He would not desist from this unlawful union even when John, the preacher of repentance, the bold and austere accuser of the lawless, censured him and told him, "It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife" (Mark 6: 18). Thus Herod, besides his other unholy acts, added yet this, that he apprehended John and shut him in prison; and perhaps he would have killed him straightway, had he not feared the people, who had extreme reverence for John. Certainly, in the beginning, he himself had great reverence for this just and holy man. But finally, being pierced with the sting of a mad lust for the woman Herodias, he laid his defiled hands on the teacher of purity on the very day he was celebrating his birthday. When Salome, Herodias' daughter, had danced in order to please him and those who were supping with him, he promised her -- with an oath more foolish than any foolishness -- that he would give her anything she asked, even unto the half of his kingdom. And she, consulting with her mother, straightway asked for the head of John the Baptist in a charger. Hence this transgressor of the Law, preferring his lawless oath above the precepts of the Law, fulfilled this godless promise and filled his loathsome banquet with the blood of the Prophet. So it was that that all-venerable head, revered by the Angels, was given as a prize for an abominable dance, and became the plaything of the dissolute daughter of a debauched mother. As for the body of the divine Baptist, it was taken up by his disciples and placed in a tomb (Mark 6: 21-29). Concerning the finding of his holy head, see February 24 and May 25. Apolytikion in the Second Tone The memory of the just is celebrated with hymns of praise, but the Lord's testimony is sufficient for thee, O Forerunner; for thou hast proved to be truly even more venerable than the Prophets, since thou was granted to baptize in the running waters Him Whom they proclaimed. Wherefore, having contested for the truth, thou didst rejoice to announce the good tidings even to those in Hades: that God hath appeared in the flesh, taking away the sin of the world and granting us great mercy. Kontakion in the Plagal of the First Tone The glorious beheading of the Forerunner was a certain divine dispensation, that the coming of the Saviour might also be preached to those in Hades. Let Herodias lament, then, that she demanded a wicked murder; for she loved not the Law of God, nor eternal life, but one false and fleeting. August 2014 Page 15

16 Parish News August 17 - Family Picnic and Liturgy at Stone Park August 31 - Ministry Fair August 31 - Phanouropita Blessing August 17 th Annual Church Picnic & Liturgy Liturgy will be held at Stone State Park Lodge THANK YOU $600 was donated to the church hall fund in memory of Christos & Alexandra Margellos. August 2014 Page 16

17 Holy Trinity GOC August 2014 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 Theotokos Fast 8:30 am Agiasmos Service 6:00 pm Baptismal Seminar - By appointment 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 2 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 3 Philoptochos Monthly Meeting AGIASMOS Theotokos Fast 9:00 am Sunday Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 11:30 am Choir Practice 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 10 Men's Group Monthly Meeting Theotokos Fast 9:00 am Sunday Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 11:30 am Choir Practice 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 17 Family Picnic and Liturgy at Stone Park 9:00 am Sunday Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 11:30 am Choir Practice 24 9:00 am Sunday Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 11:30 am Choir Practice 4 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 7:00 pm Parish Council Meeting 11 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 5 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Byzantine Music Practice 6:00 pm Esperenos of the Transfiguration 12 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Byzantine Music Practice 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service :00 pm Byzantine Music Practice :00 pm Byzantine Music Practice 6 Theotokos Fast 7 Theotokos Fast 9:00 am Transfiguration 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy of the Transfiguration 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 13 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 14 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Assumption Esperinos 8 Theotokos Fast 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service :00 am Assumption Orthros 10:00 am Assumption Divine Liturgy :00 am St. Phanurios Orthros 10:00 am St. Phanurios Divine Liturgy 28 6:00 pm Paraklisis Service 29 9:00 am Beheading of the Forerunner Orthros 10:00 am Beheading of the Forerunner Divine Liturgy 9 Theotokos Fast Ministry Fair 9:00 am Sunday Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 11:30 am Choir Practice August 2014 Page 17

18 FRIDAY - SEPTEMBER 19 PHILOXENIA HOUSE TRIP SCHEDULE 7:30 A.M. Leave church at 900 6th Street, Sioux City, IA and head to Minneapolis. 12:30 P.M. Lunch at It's Greek to Me Restaurant, 626 West Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN :45 P.M. Walk across the street and up one block to Bill's Imports (Greek Store), 721 West Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN :00 P.M. Head to Southdale Shopping Center, 10 Southdale Center, Edina, MN :00-6:30 P.M. Leave for Rochester, MN Maybe stop for snack/light dinner on the way to Rochester. 8:30-9:00 P.M. Arrive at hotel in Rochester and stay overnight. SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 20 9:00 A.M. Attend church services at the Greek Orthodox Church, 703 West Center Street, Rochester, MN (Divine Liturgy for St. Eustathios and his Family) 11:30 A.M. Tour Philoxenia houses next to the church. 1:00 P.M. Lunch and depart for Sioux City. 6:00 P.M. Arrive back at 900 Sixth Street, Sioux City, IA August 2014 Page 18

19 HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH Trip to Rochester, MN Friday, September 19 th Saturday, September 20 th Please join us as we travel to Rochester, MN to visit and show our support to the Philoxenia House. In addition to fellowship, we will enjoy shopping, a wonderful meal at It s Greek to Me Restaurant, and finish our trip with a Liturgy to St. Eustathios and His Family with Rev. Fr. Mark Muñoz, who has graciously made plans to be with us despite another engagement in which he was to be honored. This is the sort of humble and generous soul he is. RSVP to Maria Schultz (Marogschultz@aol.com) no later than August 17 th with your name and the names of the people rooming with you. Make checks payable to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Checks due August 17 th to secure rooms at Hilton Garden Inn!!! The amount includes bus fare, room at the Hilton Garden Inn, and lunch at It's Greek to Me. The amounts are as follows: Two people in a room - $150 per person Three people in a room - $127 per person Four people in a room - $115 per person August 2014 Page 19

20 COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECT Luke 3:10-11 "What should we do then?" the crowd asked. John answered, "Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same." For the needy of Sioux City, Holy Trinity is asking for each family to put together at least 3 full supply kits as listed below from the Sioux City Schools. Please deliver your kits in brown grocery bags with the Grade Level marked to the Church no later than August 17 th. These will be delivered to the Sioux City Institutions that deliver these kits to needy families. Transitional Kindergarten 1 package of wooden #2 pencils 1 set of colored pencils 3 boxes of crayons (8 count) 2 bottles of white glue 3 folders 3 spiral notebooks 2 boxes washable markers 1 package dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 tray of 8 watercolors 1 paint shirt 1 resting mat 1 box of Kleenex* 1 box of sandwich-size baggies* Kindergarten 1 package wooden #2 pencils 1 large pencil eraser 4 boxes of crayons (24 count) 2 bottles of white glue 2 folders 2 spiral notebooks 1 box of washable markers 1 package of dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 small pencil box 1 large towel (to be used as a mat) 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 box quart-size storage bags (girls)* 1 box gallon-size storage bags (boys)* Sioux City Community Schools TK-5 School Supply List Grade 1 2 packages of wooden #2 pencils 1 large pencil eraser 3 boxes of crayons (24 count) 2 bottles of white glue 3 folders 3 notebooks 1 box of washable markers 1 package dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 small pencil box 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 box quart-size storage bags (girls)* 1 box gallon-size storage bags (boys)* Grade 2 2 packages of wooden #2 pencils 1 large pencil eraser 3 boxes crayons (24 count) 2 bottles of white glue *optional supply items 3 folders 3 spiral notebooks 1 box of washable markers 1 package of dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 school box 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 box quart-size storage bags (girls)* 1 box gallon-size storage bags (boys)* August 2014 Page 20

21 Grade 3 2 packages of wooden #2 pencils 1 set of colored pencils 1 red checking pen or pencil 1 large pencil eraser 2 boxes of crayons (24 count) 2 bottles of white glue 5 folders 5 spiral notebooks 1 package of loose leaf paper (wide-lined) 1 box of washable markers 1 package of dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 school box 1 ruler 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 package of 3x3 post-its (girls)* 1 package of 3x5 index cards (boys)* 1 box quart-size storage bags (girls)* 1 box gallon-size storage bags (boys)* Grade 5 2 packages of #2 pencils 1 set of colored pencils 1 red checking pen or pencil 1 large pencil eraser 2 boxes of crayons (24 count) 1 pen (blue or black ink) 2 bottles of white glue 6 pocket folders with prongs 6 spiral notebooks 2 packages of loose leaf paper (wide-lined) 1 box of washable markers 1 package of dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 highlighter 1 ruler 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 package of 3x3 post-its (girls)* 1 package 3x5 index cards (boys)* Grade 4 2 packages of wooden #2 pencils 1 set of colored pencils 1 red checking pen or pencil 1 large pencil eraser 2 boxes of crayons (24 count) 2 bottles of white glue 6 folders 6 spiral notebooks 2 packages of loose leaf paper (wide-lined) 1 box of washable markers 1 package of dry erase markers 1 pair of scissors, blunt tip 1 pencil box or bag 1 ruler 2 boxes of Kleenex* 1 box quart-size storage bags (girls)* 1 box gallon-size storage bags (boys)* 1 package of 3x3 post-its (girls)* 1 package of 3x5 index cards (boys)* August 2014 Page 21

22 70. Conyers 75. Jones, Christopher 80. Eliades, Emmanuel & Jennifer 85. Eliades, John & Gail 69. Michelakakis, Emmanuel 74. Golden, Colt 79. Fondoulakis, Cula 84. Konidas, Peter 68. Gennatos 73. Antonopoulos, Drs. Kosta & Valerie 78. Leiding 83. Selliris 67. Kjos 72. Mobley 77. Konidas, Angela 82. Ladeas December 7, 2014 December 14, 2014 December 21, 2014 December 28, Stamoulis 71. Konidas, Gus 76. Emanual 81. Rigas 42. Arvis 47. Gergescu 52. Smith 57. Pavlushik 62. Kounas, Anna 43. Golden, Mandalin 48. Margellos, Bill 53. Michaels 58. Sharp 63. Vlahoulis, Joan 44. Baryo, Leah 49. Thompson 54. Ruesch 59. Fountoulakis, Tom & Maria 64. Litras 45. Margellos, Tim & Demetra 50. Fondoulakis, Nick 55. Margeas, Steve & Virginia 60. Kivlighn 65. Baryo, Tom 41. Glanzer 46. Theros 51. Hanner 56. Milbrodt 61. Tsiobanos, George & Vickie November 2, 2014 November 9, 2014 November 16, 2014 November 23, 2014 November 30, Madsen 30. Kasotakis, Michael & Georgene 35. Poulos 40. Mihelakakis, Ted & Laura October 5, 2014 October 12, 2014 October 19, 2014 October 26, Katsiaras 26. Reid 31. Tsiobanos, Costa & Wendi 36. Diavastes September 7, 2014 September 14, 2014 September 21, 2014 September 28, Kasotakis, Stella 6. Karras, Dean & Amy 11. Fountoulakis, Diane 16. Davenport August 2014 Page Mehess, Jim & Linda 29. Demetroulis, Kosta & Koula 34. Margellos, Chris 39. Margeas, Christopher & Niki 23. Karras, Alex & Kiki 28. Vlahoulis, George 33. Vlahoulis Spero 38. Boucher 22. Segos 27. Tsehahe 32. Demetroulis, George & Mary 37. Bovis 5. Tobias 10. Jones, Rick & Sonia 15. Antonopoulos, Perry & Janet 20. Miller 4. Ketchelos, Cornelia 9. Konidas, Tim & Julie 14. Kyriakides 19. Kouris 3. Bostinelos, Dimitri & Michelle 8. Eliades, Mary 13. Kounas, Chris & Cheryl 18. Balomenos 2. Ketchelos, Orfeas & Natalie 7. Michelakakis, John 12. Holevas 17. Mehess, Lila Prosforo Assignments

23 Prosforo Assignments The needs of the Church evolve as we evolve. Because finding steady volunteers for the Prosforo has proved too difficult and because the same three to four people perpetually offer the gifts, as your shepherd I have come to this solution for the mutual edification of all, myself included. The Supreme Offering should never be frozen! It is the offering of the people and should be brought with names of the living and the dead. 5 families each week are asked to bake 1 prosforo each. This is not so great a task and can be a wonderful experience for the whole family to participate, knowing that their loaf will become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. The families of the Church have been randomized so that each family will bring prosforo 2-3 times per year. That is not so taxing a request from your precious Church. It might be tempting to think, There are five families, the church will not miss my loaf Do not fall short of your responsibility to God! You must firmly believe that IF YOUR LOAF DOES NOT COME, THERE WILL BE NO OFFERING, and therefore, no Church. Your contribution is that important! 2 cups (approximately) of lukewarm water (105 F, 40 C) 2 rounded teaspoons of active dry yeast FOR BAKING Prosforo seal flour Preparation: Sprinkle yeast on top of 1/2 cup of the lukewarm water and stir to dissolve. Sift the flours together into a large bowl. (If using 6 cups of white flour only, sift now.) Whisk in salt to distribute. Make the sign of the cross into the flour (or make a well in the center of the flour) and add yeast mixture and remaining water. Use hands to mix, rotating in a circular motion to pull flour gradually into the center. When the dough sticks together, turn out onto a floured work surface and knead to form a smooth, elastic, firm dough (about 20 minutes). Allow the dough to rest for about 10 minutes, then knead again for about 5 minutes longer. Lightly flour an 8-inch cake pan. Divide the dough into two equal pieces and form into two round loaves. Flatten one loaf slightly and place in the middle of the cake pan. Press the seal firmly into the dough until the dough fills the pan around the sides. Flatten the second loaf and place on top of the first. Dust the seal with flour and press down firmly to get the best possible imprint. If needed, use a brush or small spoon to gently fix any uneven edges in the imprint from the seal. Use a wooden skewer to poke small holes at the 12 corners of the cross on the seal (4 in the middle and 8 around the edges). Prosforo Recipe Prep Time: 1 hour Cook Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes Total Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes Ingredients: FOR THE BREAD 1 cup of dark (rye or other) flour AND 1 cup of white whole wheat flour AND 4 cups of white bread flour OR 6 cups of bread flour 1 teaspoon of sea salt Cover with a clean towel (make the sign of the cross and place a small cross on the towel), and allow to rise for 20 to 25 minutes. While the loaf is rising, preheat oven to 355 F (180 C). Bake at 355 F (180 C) for about 1 hour and 15 or 20 minutes. During baking, if the top starts to get too dark, cover loosely with a piece of foil. When done, remove loaf from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Cover with a clean towel until cooled, and then brush away any flour that may remain on top from the seal. August 2014 Page 23

24 We need Coffee Hour Sponsors! Does a loved one have a name day, birthday, anniversary, memorial coming up? Why not honor that loved one by sponsoring the Coffee Hour in his/her/their honor? Check the Coffee Hour Section of the Website to see open days. Sun August 3 Sun August 10 Sun August 17 Prosforo: Maria Schultz Coffee Hour: Prosforo: Coffee Hour: Prosforo: CHURCH PICNIC Sun August 24 Prosforo: Andrea Kjos Coffee Hour: Maria Bikakis Sun August 31 Prosforo: Coffee Hour: August 2014 Page 24