Glad Tidings Loving God Through Serving Our Neighbor, by Fr. Mills

Transcription

1 St. Paul, MN June-July 2008 Volume 14, Issue 6 ST. GEORGE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH Glad Tidings Loving God Through Serving Our Neighbor, by Fr. Mills The shortest scriptural definition of God is found in 1 John 4, "God is love." Later in the same epistle we are told that God loved us before we loved him and that if we say that we love God and hate our brother we are a liar, "for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen." (1 John 4:20). The scriptures teach us that our love for the Lord is intimately connected with the neighbor, which we see in the parable of the Good Samaritan. When a Samaritan traveler notices that there is a hurt man on the side of the road he puts the man on his own beast, brings him to a local inn, and pays for the room and whatever else the hurt man needs. In other words, the Samaritan used his own time, energy, effort, and money, in order to help a fellow person in need. Now this is truly love! However, the ultimate example of love is Jesus' death on the cross. Jesus' death shows us that laying down of ones life for another person is the most perfect act of love that can be made. This crucified love is seen throughout Jesus' earthly life as he healed and restored people to physical health and wellbeing, as he healed people from demonic possession, and as he fed and nourished people with the miracle of the loaves and fishes. During his life, Jesus welcomed the stranger, the poor, the naked, and the outcast. Finally, before his death, Jesus stooped down and washed the feet of his disciples telling them that if they want to be a part of him that they should go and wash one another's feet. Thus, if we truly want to love Jesus and be a part of him we will go and serve our neighbor, washing their feet as well. We need to be reminded that loving other people isn't optional; it's a command from Jesus himself! One of the most sobering gospel lessons in the New Testament is read on the Sunday of the Last Judgment which is the Sunday before the beginning of Great Lent. The gospel lesson is taken from Matthew 25 which is commonly called the "Sheep and the Goats." Jesus teaches his disciples about the final judgment and tells them that when the Son of Man returns again all nations will be gathered before him and he will separate them as a shepherd separates sheep from the goats. He will ask them whether they fed the hungry, clothed the naked, visited the sick and suffering, and welcomed the stranger. Those who did not serve and love the poor, will be sent to eternal punishment but the righteous to eternal life (Matthew 25:31-46). Thus, at the final judgment, we will be judged on one thing only: did we love the neighbor? Hopefully the answer will be a resounding yes! This teaching about the last judgment pertains not only to individuals but to our missions Special articles: Diocese Oratorical Festival, p. 4; The Stranger, p. 6 and parishes as well. It is in the local worshipping community where we share our common Orthodox Faith and life and where we also have many opportunities to show love for the neighbor in very concrete and tangible ways. Our missions and parishes have a mandate to engage in outreach projects for the poor, orphan, hungry, naked, sick, and imprisoned. Engaging in outreach projects not only helps other people but it can also transform a parish community, especially as parishioners learn how to work together towards a common goal and sharing their times, talents, and treasures with other people in need. If we all look at the strengths and talents within our various parish communities I am sure that we can find countless ways to love and serve our neighbor, and in doing so, learning to love and serve the Lord. A few years ago our small parish agreed to get involved in local charities. Over a series of several weeks I invited numerous representatives from local charities such as Habitat for Humanity and the local Loaves and Fishes foodbank, to come and speak to our parishioners during the Sunday coffee hour about the work of their charity. After a few weeks of listening to these representatives, parishioners were excited about the world around them" and decided to adopt the Charlotte Men's Rescue mission. con t on p. 4

2 Glad Tidings Page 2 From the Desk of the President Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen! Over the last few weeks, I ve come to learn that a number of people who I love and care about (whether they be family members or friends) have been afflicted with some sort or another of physical malady or disease. I m certain that many of you have had the same experience either now or at some other point in time. When those that we love are seriously ill, it is very disconcerting. And while we probably don t dwell on it too often, it is most certainly the case that these kinds of difficulties befall others on a daily basis, whether we are aware of it or not. Its just a part of life, albeit one that we would just as soon not have to encounter. These tribulations provide us with an opportunity to realize what is really important in life. During my time on the Parish Council over the course of the last 3½ years, a number of issues of church administration and the like have arisen. Oftentimes these issues have caused some among us to endure a certain level of discontent, frustration or even anger at times. And while many of these issues are indeed important (or at least they seem to hold some level of importance), they pale in comparison to the greater issue of how we relate to those around us. Stated another way, the more important thing is how we demonstrate our love for one another, notwithstanding the annoying things that invariably arise as a result of our interpersonal relationships. As Orthodox Christians, we need to keep this priority in mind as a part of our everyday lives, not just during times of personal crisis. Of course, like so many other things in life, that is much easier said than done. So what s my point in raising this issue and what might I like you to do about it? Well, I ve spent quite a bit of time reflecting on this lately, wondering how we at St. George could collectively make this a real part of our everyday lives. You may recall that a few months back, I wrote about the Visitation Committee and how there were only three people involved with this ministry. Unfortunately, participation hasn t increased since then. In fact, if anything it has dwindled. I think we are missing a great opportunity to enrich our lives and the lives of others at St. George. After all, it was Christ himself who taught us the importance of this ministry when he said I was sick and you visited Me. This is not to say that I believe none of us visit the sick or homebound in our community. To the contrary, I m quite sure it happens. It just doesn t seem to occur in any organized manner and I believe it would be greatly beneficial to us if it did. I would be thrilled if a handful of us (or many more for that matter!) could make the time to get this important ministry off the ground. This ministry would benefit from participation by the old and the young, the long-time and the new member, the cradle Orthodox and the convert. The exact work to be done could range from simply enabling more frequent visits to the sick and homebound, to lending a hand with day-to-day needs, to establishing a more concerted effort to pray for the well-being of those of us in the community who are in special need. An example that comes to mind of how we could employ the power of prayer toward this end is the Paraklesis service. This service provides us a reminder of our own physical (and spiritual) afflictions as we ask the Theotokos or saints to intercede on our behalf to Christ. Many of you may remember that Fr. Rick celebrated a Paraklesis service recently after a relative of one of our parishioners was kidnapped (shortly thereafter, she was safely returned to her family). With the dedication of a vibrant committee, perhaps a regularly scheduled Paraklesis service could be instituted. Similarly, another example, which I know has been employed by the Spiritual Life Committee, would be to provide to committee members a list of names of people to be remembered during their daily prayers. I m sure there are many other possibilities as well. Regardless of the exact details, however, I am confident that were we to place an increased emphasis on these spiritual matters, as opposed to the business aspects of the Church, would be better off for having done so. If you made it this far with me, thanks for reading the entire column. I know this column is quite different from previous months, and writing it was a struggle for me. I pray that you have taken my words in the spirit they were given. Please know that in conveying these thoughts it is not my intention to preach or come off as holierthan-thou. Rather, it is meant simply to encourage each of us to strive together for a more excellent way. Your brother in Christ, Eric

3 St. Paul, MN Page 3 Parish Announcements Philoptochos News The Philoptochoes Bakers were unable to provide koulourakia for the early morning Easter dinner. We are very sorry about that. The ladies of the Philoptochos Society invite members and non-members to Decades Birthdays with Brunch on Saturday, June 07, 2008, 11:30 A.M at the home of Evelyn Boosalis in Dellwood. Directions from St. George Greek Orthodox Church to Evelyn Boosalis; 85 Many Levels Road, Dellwood, Minnesota: Take Lexington Parkway North, crossing Portland Avenue. Right turn onto I94E (2.37 miles). Merge onto 35E NORTH (9.83 miles). Take exit 117/ County Road 96 (.25 mile). Turn right on MN 96 (County Road 96). Continue on County Road 96 (.98 mile). Turn left on MN 96 East (US 61) (1.11 miles). Turn right on MN 96 (2.82.miles). Turn right on Quail Road (County Road 62) (.14 mile). Turn left on Shady Woods Road (.08 mile). Bear right on Evergreen Road (.05 mile). Bear right on Many Levels Road (.15 mile). Arrive at 85 Many Levels Road on the left. This is about a 20 mile trip. Should you need more help with directions, call Evelyn Boosalis. RSVP to Evelyn Boosalis or Mary B Makredes Happy Summertime. With Thanks We wish to express our sincere appreciation for the many cards, flowers, visits, and expressions of concern. We are deeply grateful for your warm wishes, love, support, and prayers! Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Thoughtfully, Antonia and Christ Kontenakos 2008 Spirit Fest Spirit Fest is a celebration of the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition, and an opportunity to share our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Invite neighbors and friends to find out more about Orthodoxy, and join us on these dates: June 5, MECCA Choir Concert and Vespers Service: Vespers at 7PM, concert at 7:45PM: St Mary GOC, 3450 Irving Avenue S, Minneapolis. June 8, Catholic / Orthodox Dialogue: Vespers at 7PM, refreshments at 7:30PM, dialogue 8-9PM: Location to be announced. June 15, Spirit Fest Open House - 2-5PM: Pan-Orthodox Vespers at 5PM, St George Antiochian, 1250 Oakdale Avenue, West St Paul. Lambros Scholarship Available This scholarship has been established to recognize and foster academic achievement within the St. George Greek Orthodox Community and the AHEPA family. Annual stipends in the amount of $ will be awarded to undergraduate students attending accredited universities, colleges or technical training institutes. Awards are made only to students who are active, paid up members of St. George Greek Orthodox Community of St. Paul, MN and the Order of AHEPA or one of its ancillary, organizations, who are entering into college or are in undergraduate work. Deadline for applications is June 30, Forms are available by calling Festival of Nations Thanks Thank you so much to the volunteers who contributed their time and effort to the Festival of Nations! Parish Assembly The next parish assembly is scheduled for June 1. Your voice is importantplease plan to attend. Graduate Sunday Recognition of our Sunday School, high school and college students will take place on June 1. Spring Clean-Up Scheduled It is time to spruce up the church property on Saturday, June 14. Windows need to be washed, plants need to be trimmed and the gardens need mulch. Start time is 9 am sandwiches will be provided. Please bring fruit and dessert to share. Greek School Anna Christoforides is resigning from the Greek School director's position. We thank Anna for her many years of dedicated service and devotion. We are looking for a new director to begin immediately. If interested or have questions, please contact Fr Rick. Loaves and Fishes Thank you to all who volunteer for Loaves and Fishes. On April 14 we had 21 people who cooked, set up, served and cleaned. There was an abundance of humor, chatter and food. The next serving date is Monday, June 9! Greek Festival 2008 August 16th - August 17th The annual Greek Festival is a major fundraiser for the church and would not happen without the help of 200 volunteers. It is also a major social event for the community and an opportunity for us to share the rich culture and great food of Greece. The Volunteer Sign Up sheet is included as an insert. Efharisto! Grand Old Day June 1st - 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. The GOYA kids and Missions and Benevolence will be teaming up and doing a service project. They will be charging $5.00 for parking in the St. George parking lot after Liturgy. All money received will be donated to Trinity Missions.

4 Glad Tidings Page 4 Church Staff and Office Hours Registry Church Office Hours Mondays 10:00AM-12:30PM, 1:30PM-4:30PM Tue. Thurs. 8:00AM-12:30PM, 1:30 PM-4:30 PM Chrismation Brant Johnson - Nouno Paul Pliakas Rev. Fr. Richard Demetrius Andrews, Presbyter (651) FatherRick@usa.com Fiona Eustathiades, Administrative Assistant (651) Eric Chadwick, Parish Council President (507) chadwick@ptslaw.com Reva Adkins, Philoptochos President (651) rradkins@comcast.net Andrea Faches, Sunday School Director (507) afaches@msn.com Diane Anastos Glad Tidings - Editor Festal Icons Needed Please donate a Festal Icon (11" x 14") in memory of a loved one. The cost is $50.00 per icon. The icons are displayed in the church nave and are put out for veneration on the Feast Day of the Saint or event they represent. To donate an icon, fill out a form (found on the bulletin board by the kitchen) and return it to the office. St. Markella July 22 St. Melania of Rome St. Theodosia May 29 Loving God, con t from p. 1. On the second Saturday of every month parishioners purchased food, traveled down to center city Charlotte and cooked a hot meal for the men. Parishioners were excited about helping with the mission, not only did they want to go back again, they wanted to adopt other charities as well! Now, five years later, our parish sponsors and supports approximately ten local and national Orthodox and non-orthodox charities and philanthropic organizations. Our most recent charity is the national Project Linus Children's Blanket drive where parishioners quilt and crochet blankets that are donated to children in need, especially children who have extended hospital visitations. Every month our parishioners are engaged in several outreach programs; donating canned food through our Loaves and Fishes food bin, assisting at the local Men's Rescue Mission, or donating money for the Holy Cross Orthodox Mission in Greensboro, NC. Furthermore, as our parish community grows in numbers, so too will our outreach programs. Over the past few years we have slowly added more outreach programs on our Church calendar and hopefully this will continue in the years to come. However, we are only following the example of Jesus who teaches us that we love God through serving and loving our neighbor! Fr. William C. Mills, Ph.D., is the "rector of the Nativity of the Holy Virgin Orthodox Church in Charlotte, NC, as well as an adjunct professor of religious studies at Queens University in Charlotte, NC. He is married to Taisia Mills and has two daughters, Hannah and Emma. This article originally appeared on the web site

5 St. Paul, MN Page 5 YOUTH NEWS St. John Chrysostom ORATORICAL & ARTS FESTIVAL Alexandra Selliris represented St. George in the Junior Division of the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival Diocese level on May 3rd. The diocesan Festival was held at St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago. Of her experience, Alexandra said The Oratorical Festival was a great learning experience. I didn t really know what to expect when I got to St. Andrew. I didn t make the top three but that just pushes me harder to try again next year. We are very proud that Alexandra represented our parish and did so with such enthusiasm. Congratulations on your efforts, Alex! Sunday School Graduation June 1st Please join us after Divine Liturgy to recognize the children of St. George with a special graduation ceremony. A luncheon will follow in the Social Hall. Thank you to all the Sunday School staff for making this another outstanding year in teaching 73 students. Preschool: Stella Hofrenning and Krisandrea Rylander K and 1st: Georgia Panopoulos and Toni Selliris 2nd and 3rd: Stacy Katsiyiannis and Tony Selliris 4th, 5th and 6th: Tom Lampros and Vaios Vlachos 7th, 8th and 9th: Diane Anastos and Eric Chadwick Sunday School Director: Andrea Faches Classroom Parents: Julie Delton, Demetra Moshonas, Chris Menke, and Vicky Paraschou. UPCOMING YOUTH EVENTS GOYA Saints Game Sunday, June 8th Join us for tailgating after Liturgy Game starts at 1:05 p.m. $4.00 (age 14 and under) $5.00 (adults) RSVP to Presvytera Jane by June 1st at or by At janedono@usfamily.net Family Night Friday, June 20th 7:00 p.m Meet for fellowship and potluck. Host: Tom & Dawn Lampros 1551 Holton Street St. Paul, MN RSVP to Dawn by June 16th At or At tlampros@hotmail.com St. Mary s Summer Camp June 29-July 6, 2008 Camp Wapogasset (Wapo) Avery, Wisconsin Have fun at camp. SAVE THE DATE Family Night Saturday, July 12th BBQ and children s games Host: GOYA Vacation Church School July 28th August 1st For children entering Kindergarten through 6th grade in the Fall of Registration forms available at church or online at VCSRegistrationForm.html Post Camp Party & Lock-in August 15th 9:00 p.m. - August 16th 9:00 a.m.. St. Mary s OCA Cathedral 1701 Fifth St., NE Minneapolis, MN Youth Ministry Monday, June 9th 7:00 p.m St. George Greek Orthodox Church Monthly planning meeting. All Sunday School staff and youth workers are invited to attend. Next meeting will be on July 14th.

6 Glad Tidings Page 6 Holy Week and Pascha 2008 Thank you to all parishioners and their families who worked on the new dresses for the Myrrhbearers. Everyone devoted many hours cutting, sewing and fitting the girls for a beautiful presentation on Great Friday. A special thank you to those who helped to decorate the Epitaphion- Kouvouklion for Good Friday services. Pendy Eliou and Frank Mortari read the Gospel during Agape Vespers on Sunday morning. Christos Anesti! Alithos Anesti! We Glorify His Third Day Resurrection Christ is Risen! Truly He Has Risen! Food for Thought..The Stranger A few years after I was born, my Dad met a stranger who was new to our small Texas town. From the beginning, Dad was fascinated with this enchanting newcomer and soon invited him to live with our family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around from then on. As I grew up, I never questioned his place in my family. In my young mind, he had a special niche. My parents were complementary instructors: Mom taught me good from evil, and Dad taught me to obey. But the stranger...he was our storyteller. He would keep us spellbound for hours on end with adventures, mysteries and comedies. If I wanted to know anything about politics, history or science, he always knew the answers about the past, understood the present and even seemed able to predict the future! He took my family to the first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, but Dad didn't seem to mind. Sometimes, Mom would get up quietly while the rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what he had to say, and she would go to the kitchen for peace and quiet. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the stranger to leave.) Dad ruled our household with certain moral convictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor them. Profanity, for example, was not allowed in our home... Not from us, our friends or any visitors. Our longtime visitor, however, got away with four-letter words that burned my ears and made my dad squirm and my mother blush. My Dad didn't permit the liberal use of alcohol. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes distinguished. He talked freely (much too freely!) about sex. His comments were sometimes blatant, sometimes suggestive, and generally embarrassing. I now know that my early concepts about relationships were influenced strongly by the stranger. Time after time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet he was seldom rebuked... And NEVER asked to leave. More than fifty years have passed since the stranger moved in with our family. He has blended right in and is not nearly as fascinating as he was at first. Still, if you could walk into my parents' den today, you would still find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for someone to listen to him talk and watch him draw his pictures. His name?..... We just call him "TV." He has a wife now...we call her "Computer."

7 St. Paul, MN Page 7 Around Town United Theological Seminary Summer Institute in Spirituality & The Arts June 9-13, 2008 Do something creative this summer! The Summer Institute in Spirituality & the Arts offers participants a chance to do learn and explore the intersections between art and religion. Different tracks provide tools for spiritual growth, personal reflection, and congregational renewal. Participants will leave refreshed for their work in the world through creative encounters with leaders, each other, and the Holy. This year s offerings include: Music and the Arts: The Starting Point for Worship Design, Art Clyde Transformation & the Story: A Writing Workshop, Elizabeth Andrews Sacred Time: Living in the Rhythms of Nature and the Liturgical Year, Robin Jensen Spirituality of Icons, Deborah Korluka and Richard Sheerer For a complete description and information on early registration discounts go to or call Announcements Continued Donate Olive Oil Please donate olive oil to be used for oil lamps in the church; any size container is accepted. "And you shall command the children of Israel that they bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to cause the lamp to burn continually." (Exodus 27:20) Church School Volunteers Are Needed Please see insert for volunteer application. Young Adult Conference Planning in Process Young adults from the Washington-Baltimore Metropolitan area are working to prepare for the 2008 Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America National Young Adult Conference, July 10-13, 2008 in Washington DC. Doers of the Word will be the theme for the weekend, with Rev. Dn. John Chryssavigis, as the featured keynote speaker. Young adults will have the opportunity to grow in their faith through a hands-on outreach project at the L.B. Johnson Memorial Grove National Park will give participants a chance to actively become Doers of the Word. Metropolis & Archdiocesan News Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Recognized by TIME Magazine Among World s Most Influential People His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of 250 million Orthodox Christians worldwide, has been recognized by Time Magazine as one of the world s most influential people. This is the fifth annual list compiled by the magazine. In an article included with the selection and written by the Archbishop of Canterbury and head of the Anglican Church, Rowan Williams, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew is honored for his clear moral and spiritual vision and for his concern for the environment. Williams states, In a way that is profoundly loyal to the traditions of worship and reflection in the Eastern Orthodox Church, he has insisted that ecological questions are essentially spiritual ones. He has stressed that a world in which God the Creator uses the material stuff of the universe to communicate who he is and what he wants is one that demands reverence from human beings. Probably more than any other religious leader from any faith, Patriarch Bartholomew, 68, has kept open this spiritual dimension of environmentalism. The title Ecumenical Patriarch historically refers to the Patriarch's pastoral responsibility for the whole inhabited world. This brave and visionary pastor has given a completely new sense to the ancient honorific. Time Magazine s complete list appears in the May 8 issue, and the article on Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew can be viewed online via the Archdiocese web site at Encountering the Mystery: by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew: Written with personal warmth and great erudition, Encountering the Mystery illuminates the rich culture and soul of Orthodox Christianity. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I traces the roots of Orthodox Christianity to its founding 2000 years ago, explores its spirituality and doctrine, and explains its liturgy and art. More especially, in a unique and unprecedented way, he relates Orthodox Christianity to contemporary issues, such as freedom and human rights, social justice and globalization, as well as nationalism and war. Order your copy from Orthodox Marketplace at product.php?productid=19168

8 ST. GEORGE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 1111 Summit Avenue St. Paul, Minnesota ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID St. Paul, MN Permit No. 177 Phone: Fax: Web Site: Weekday Worship Schedule APODOSIS OF PASCHA Wednesday, June 4 9AM Liturgy, 6PM Vespers ASCENSION Thursday, June 5 9AM Liturgy NATIVITY OF FORERUNNER Tuesday, June 24 9AM Liturgy Saturday, June 28 9:30AM Liturgy in Eau Claire, WI ST. CHRISTINA Thursday, July 24 9AM Liturgy Saturday, July 26 9:30AM Liturgy in Eau Claire, WI REGULAR WEEKLY SERVICES Holy Confession: By Appointment Vespers: Saturday 5 pm (September May) Orthros: Sunday 8:30 am Divine Liturgy: Sunday 9:45 am Sunday School: (September through May) starts after administration of Holy Communion

9 June 2008 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday TH SUN. PASCHA +APODOSIS OF +ASCENSION +FAST DAY PASCHA +9:00am LITURGY +9:45am LITURGY +FAST DAY *12:00pm Junior +9:00am LITURGY Choir Practice +6:00pm VESPERS *12:30pm Parish *5:00pm Radio Assembly *6:30pm Missions Program KKMS & Benevolence *7:00pm Spirit 980am *12:30pm Sunday Fest Concert School Graduation TH SUN. PASCHA +FAST DAY +FAST DAY +9:45am LITURGY *12:00pm Acolyte Training +ST. BARTHOLOMEW- Patriarch's Nameday *1:00pm GOYA *5:00pm Loaves *7:00pm Parish *5:00pm Saint's Game & Fishes Council Program KKMS 980am *7:00pm Orthodox *7:00pm Youth *7:00pm Bible Catholic & Family Ministry Fr. Rick's Conversation Mtg. Home PENTECOST +FAST DAY +FAST DAY Father's Day +9:45am LITURGY *12:00pm Choir Practice *9:30am GOYA- Service Project / Fun Day *5:00pm Spiritual *9:00am St. Isaac of Syria Skete Open House *5:00pm Radio *12:30pm Spirit Life Cmte Program KKMS Fest *6:00pm Parish 980am Family Night *5:00pm Pentecost Vespers w/ Reception ALL SAINTS +NATIVITY OF +FAST DAY +FAST DAY FORERUNNER +9:30am Liturgy +9:45am LITURGY +9:00am LITURGY in Eau Claire, WI *7:00pm *7:00pm Welcome *5:00pm Radio Stewardship Cmte & Outreach Cmte. Program KKMS +STS. PETER & PAUL +2ND SUN. MATTHEW HOLY APOSTLES +9:45am LITURGY Summer Church Camp St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1111 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN Rev. Father Richard Demetrius Andrews -- Phone: (651)

10 July 2008 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday FAST DAY +FAST DAY INDEPENDENCE DAY - Office Closed *6:30pm Missions & Benevolence *5:00pm Radio Program KKMS 980am RD SUNDAY MATT +ST. KYRIAKI +FAST DAY +FAST DAY +9:45am LITURGY SUMMER CHURCH CAMP *5:00pm Radio *12:00pm Junior *7:00pm Bible *7:00pm Parish Program KKMS Choir Practice Fr. Rick's Council 980am Home *6:00pm Parish Family Night HOLY FATHERS +FAST DAY +ST. MARINA +FAST DAY +ST. MACRINA 4TH ECUM. SYNOD +9:45am LITURGY *12:00pm Acolyte Training *6:30pm Youth *5:00pm Spiritual *5:00pm Radio & Family Ministry Life Cmte Program KKMS Mtg. 980am Archdiocese Clergy Laity in Washington DC th SUN. +ST. MARY +FAST DAY +ST. CHRISTINA +FAST DAY +ST. PARASKEVE MATTHEW MAGDALENE, +DORMITION OF +PROPHET ELIAS +ST. MARKELLA +9:00am LITURGY ST. ANNA +9:30am Liturgy /ELIJAH in Eau Claire, WI +9:45am LITURGY *7:00pm *7:00pm Welcome *5:00pm Radio *12:00pm Choir Stewardship Cmte & Outreach Cmte. Program KKMS Practice 980am +6TH SUN. MATTHEW +ST. PANTELIEMON +9:45am LITURGY FAST DAY 9:00AM VACATION CHURCH SCHOOL Coming in August Fast of Theotokos 6 TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD 15 DORMITION OF THEOTOKOS GREEK FESTIVAL 29 BEHEADING OF FORERUNNER St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1111 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN Rev. Father Richard Demetrius Andrews -- Phone: (651)

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13 St. George Greek Orthodox Church, St. Paul, MN Parish Council Meeting Minutes April 10, 2008 Attendees: Absent: Fr. Richard Demetrius Andrews, Eric Chadwick, Stacy Katsiyannis, Pendelis Eliou, Ann Woods, Jim Theros, Paul Pliakas and Frank Mortari Christ Kontenakos, Georgia Bruer-Panopoulos, Diane Anastos I. The meeting was called to order at 19:15 II. Fr Rick opened the meeting by leading the Council in a prayer III. Minutes from the February 13, 2008 Parish Council Meeting, the February 24, 2008 Parish Assembly meeting and the March 13, 2008 Parish Council meeting were submitted by Frank Mortari and were approved by Council IV. TREASURER S REPORT Stacy Katsiyiannis submitted a report of finances covering the period of January to March 2008 period (the report will be attached to the minutes) We have begun to receive bills for the Social Hall upgrade and funds will need to be transferred from the investment accounts Eric Chadwick clarified for Council the negative balance entry on the Budget statement for item D (Transfer Funds), which is simply a reflection of funds not having been transferred from different accounts.. V. FATHER RICK S REPORT Fr Rick submitted his report (the report will be attached to the minutes) There were 3 bible readings followed by discussion on the readings Father highlighted a few items from his report including: o Holy week details and practical matters that need attention o Father encouraged Parish Council members to attend all services during this special period o Need for ushers to be available at all services and be ready to deal with the money collected o Ann Woods agreed to send out an instruction sheet outlining proper protocol for ushers during services o Frank Mortari agreed to contact the tenants and landlord of the building that make use of the Church parking lot and ask them not to park in the lot from Wednesday, April 23 through Sunday April 27, because of expected large number of parishioners attending services Fr Rick informed Council that Anna Christoforides has expressed her intention to resign from the Greek School at the end of the school year VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Stewardship Committee Pendy Eliou provided a report for Council (the report will be attached to the minutes) The total number of pledges and the total dollar amount pledged to date for 2008 are down from the full year totals of 2006 and 2007 but the average pledge amount is up by 25% compared to 2007 The Stewardship Committee has contacted a number of individuals who have not yet pledged this year, and encouraged them to fill out a pledge card By Laws Committee Paul Pliakas indicated this Committee has met and they are in the final stages of completing a draft of proposed changes to the Parish Council ByLaws

14 The draft will first be reviewed by the Parish Council and then presented to the Parish Assembly for approval The impetus behind these changes is to update the ByLaws to conform with the current UPR policies VII. NEW BUSINESS Memorial Donations Policy Fr Rick gave a historical background to these discussions that began in 2004 The larger issue is how to deal with specific requests from donors on how to use their donation, and at the same time have a written record of their wishes A policy statement approved by Parish Council in May13, 2004, was provided to Council for review The current policy, which outlines choices that the donor can make of possible beneficiaries of their donation, was not being strictly enforced Father pointed out that recent memorial donations on behalf of David Trudeau and George Tortorellis have been applied to the Iconostasis project according to the donors wishes Council felt that the current policy statement should be updated to be clearer in its beneficiary choices as well as easier for the donors to follow Eric Chadwick suggested tabling further discussions on this matter until the next Parish Council meeting Sacramental Fees Policy The issue of whether to charge fees for sacramental services (baptisms, weddings, funerals) for nonparishioners or parishioners who are not in good standing was discussed Having a policy to address this matter would more clearly communicate any associated costs for making use of Church services for those that are not active members of the parish A draft policy document was provided to Council for discussion purposes Discussions on this matter were tabled to the next Council meeting so that additional information could be gathered, including policies at other churches Resources Manuals Eric Chadwick recognized the difficulties of a smooth transition when new Council members are elected and long standing members leave This change in staff creates a knowledge gap of policies and practices, and responsibilities, for new members Eric Chadwick suggested that all Council members undertake a review of their current role and responsibilities and document these in writing which could then be collected in a binder that would contain all key information a policy booklet New Council members would be given this policy booklet which they could update as required and then they could hand it down to their successor Council members agreed to begin the long process of collecting these data that pertains to their respective roles and responsibilities Greek School Fr Rick pointed out the need to begin planning to recruit a new director of the Greek School for the next school year Holy Week Ann Woods will once again coordinate the readers required for the various services during Holy Week (Ann would prefer if one family could handle one service and handle all the reading details) 2

15 Foreign language readers for the Agape service were selected Stock Donation Policy Although a policy does currently exist to address the procedure for stock donations to the Church, it appears that the brokerage house did not get the memo of this policy One of the issues is that when such donations are made, Council is usually not aware of these transactions until much later Acknowledgment of the donation by the Church at a later time has caused some tax concerns to the donors Eric Chadwick suggested that the acknowledgement letter from the Church should simply reflect the date the Church received the donation and not the dollar amount of the donation since varying stock prices could have impacted the actual value of the donation We need to reiterate the policy to the brokerage house, and hold them accountable to the Parish Council for donated stock transactions Solea Flooring Paul Pliakas provided a report from the joint meeting of the Iconostasis, Capital Projects and Long Term Planning Committees summarizing cost options on new flooring for the solea (the report will be attached to the minutes) The Committee recommended using marble as the material of choice for the Solea floor The prices varied from $20,000 to $40,000 based on type of marble being used and installation costs The Council would prefer to keep the floor replacement costs around $20,000 provided that the marble selection is satisfactory to all concerned and that the job can be done correctly within the time frame required (likely during July 2008) Given the importance of this particular project, Council asked for more information on the material being considered (actual samples), possible layout of the floor to enhance the look/design and written bids for both the material and the installation before making any further decisions The Committees also recommended donating the old Iconostasis to Holy Trinity Serbian Church, including the icon of StGeorge, given that the new Iconostasis includes a new St George icon The Committees also recommended not moving ahead with any audio upgrades for the Sanctuary Clergy-Laity Conference Fr Rick forwarded to all Council members registration material for the upcoming Clergy-Laity conference in Washington, DC on July 12-18, 2008 Up to four delegates are allowed to represent each Parish Council members who wish to attend should make their intentions known to Council Parish Council will cover the registration costs of attendees which is $550/delegate after delegates are approved at the next Parish Assembly meeting Parish Assembly A possible date being considered for the next Parish Assembly meeting is May 18, A definitive decision will be made at a later time point Fr Rick in his report highlighted some key agenda items for this meeting, including: approval of audited financials, board of elections, board of auditors, capital projects and disposition of old iconostasis Once there is agreement on a meeting date, the agenda for this meeting will be mailed to all parishioners Accounting Issues 3

16 Stacy Katsiyiannis reviewed for all Council members procedures for bringing church offerings from the Church to the upstairs office VIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Pascha Dinner Jason Barbes has offered to help with this event Jim Theros indicated that the lamb has been purchased Additional help is highly appreciated Festival of Nations Paul Pliakas reiterated the need for volunteers during the May 1-4, 2008 Festival of Nations event Social Hall Renovations Upgrade work to the Social Hall is expected to take place during the month of June 2008 A contract has been signed for this work Father asked that he be consulted as to the progress of the work and whether workers could leave certain areas of the Social Hall available on weekends to allow for the social/fellowship hour to take place after service Parish Council Vacancies Both Pendy Eliou and Eric Chadwick have contacted a few individuals to determine their interest in serving on the Parish Council Discussions continue with these individuals so that only those who have genuine interest in serving are encouraged to be formally considered by the Council Land Development The bulk of the electrical work associated with transformer replacement has been completed The pouring of cement will require warmer temperature for its completion Eric Chadwick and at least one member from the Long Range Planning and Development Committee will review a detailed list of all work required for job completion including restoration of landscaping to its original condition James Nickitas Funds Disposition Eric Chadwick continues to attempt to resolve the issue of back-interest owed to the Church associated with the delayed donation of funds to the Church from the Nickitas estate Council will write a letter of the Nickitas estate confirming our intention to use the donated funds for a specific project, thus establishing a written record of our proposal Fr Rick asked Council members to keep Christ and Antonia Kontenakos in their prayers to assist them in getting over this difficult time. Motion: Jim Theros moved to adjourn the Parish Council meeting. Ann Woods seconded the motion. The motioned carried. The meeting was adjourned at 22:20. Fr. Rick led the congregation in a closing prayer. 4