Holy Week Schedule 2016

Transcription

1 St. George Greek Orthodox Church 30 East Forge Road - Media, PA Telephone: FAX: office@stgeorgemedia.org FrAnastasios@stgeorgemedia.org Volume 30, Issue 4 Check the St. George website for the most up to date information April 2016 St. George Greek Orthodox Church Holy Week Schedule 2016 April 23 April 24 April 25 April 26 April 27 April 28 April 29 April 30 May 1 Saturday of Lazarus Orthros Divine Liturgy Tying of Palms/Breakfast / Palm Sunday Orthros Divine Liturgy Palm Sunday Luncheon Bridegroom Service Holy Monday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Bridegroom Service Holy Tuesday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Bridegroom Service Holy Wednesday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Bridegroom Service The Sacrament of Holy Unction Holy Thursday Divine Liturgy Passion of Christ/Crucifixion Holy and Great Friday The Royal Hours Decoration of the Epitaphios Descent from Cross/Apokathelosis Lamentations/Epitaphios Procession Holy Saturday Vesperal Divine Liturgy Vigil of the Resurrection Resurrection Service/Liturgy Agape Meal THE GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA Agape Vesper Service 9 am 10 am 9 am 10 am 7 pm 9 am 7 pm 9 am 7 pm 9 am 3 pm pm 8 am 6:30 pm 8 am 9:30 am 3 pm 7 pm 9 am pm 12 midnight 1:30 am 12 noon *************************************************************************************** The Feast of St. George ΤΟΥ ΑΓ. ΓΕΩΡΓΙΟΥ Monday, May 2 Orthros 8:45 am Divine Liturgy am

2 Holy Metropolis of New Jersey His Eminence Metropolitan EVANGELOS + St. George Greek Orthodox Church Presiding Priest - Fr. Anastasios P. Bourantas, Economos 2016 Parish Council Members Angelica Politarhos-Santora, President Sonya Bohmann, 1st Vice-President George Fotiades, 2nd Vice-President Margaret Antzoulatos, Secretary +Richard Weaver, Treasurer Demetrios Psihalinos, Financial Secretary Demetrios Christoforatos, Assistant Financial Secretary Dimitri Gianneas Valentinos Kanellopoulos Nikolaos Liolios Kenneth N. Miller Drew M. Nayman Emmanouil Papadopoulos Marco Tourlitis Nikolaos Yiantsos Organizations Administrative Assistant - Katherine B. Mudrick Chanters - Michael Matekovic Choir - Helen J. Beldecos, Director Custodian - Russell Ehly Accountant - George Kaffes Philoptochos - Ai Mirophoroi Diane P. Nayman, President GOYA - Christina Bourantas, GOYA President, Advisor: Margaret Antzoulatos JOY/HOPE - Anthoula Psihalinos, Effie Lambardakis, Advisors Sunday School Director - Patty Cakrides-Ryan, James Stylios Bookstore - Presvytera Nicoletta Bourantas GOYA Basketball - John Aivazoglou, Coach (boys), Dr. Alex Terris, Coach, (girls) Vacation Church School - Anthoula Psihalinos Greek Folk Dance - (HOPE/JOY) Anthoula Psihalinos, Effie Lambardakis, (GOYA) Phil Voutsakis Young Adult Leaders: Phil Voutsakis Young at Heart (A Ministry for those 55 and over) - Diane Nayman, Bertha Tourlitis, Angie Santora Aristotle Academy at St. George - Elias Pantelidis, Director, Alexander Kopatsis, President Chion Society of St. Markella - Marco Tourlitis, President AHEPA - Rick Hogue, President Daughters of Penelope - Donna Matekovic, President Parish Council Committee Chairpersons Building Expansion - John Aivazoglou, Nikolaos Yiantsos Bylaws - Peter Dionisos, Executive Committee - Parish Council Officers and Past President Facilities - George Fotiades, Nikolaos Liolios, Nikolaos Yiantsos Festival - Sonya Bohmann, Angelica Politarhos-Santora, Nikolaos Yiantsos Finance - Richard Weaver, Drew Nayman Greek School - Emmanouil Papadopoulos Hall Rental - IATV/Audio Visual - Nikolaos Yiantsos Personnel - Executive Committee Stewardship - Margaret Antzoulatos, John Aivazoglou, Kenneth N. Miller, Drew Nayman Web Master & Strategic Planning - Nick Voutsakis Youth Liaison - Margaret Antzoulatos Golf Classic - John Aivazoglou, Costa Pippis, Nikolaos Yiantsos

3 April 2016 Check the St. George Website for the most up to date information Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat May 1 Great and Holy Pascha Agape Vesper Service 12 noon 3 Sunday of the Holy Cross Hope Gathering 12:30 pm Aristotle Academy March 25th Celebration 1:30 pm Pan Macedonian Meeting 7:00 pm 10 Sunday of St. John Climacus Spring General Assembly Following services 17 Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt Greek Independence Day Parade Philadelphia bus Leaves 12 noon from St. George 24 Palm Sunday Orthros/Divine Liturgy 9am /Palm Sunday Luncheon / Bridegroom Service 7pm May 2 The Feast of St. George Orthros 9:00 am Liturgy 10:00 am Followed by Feast Day Luncheon 4 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm Apodeipnon/ Compline 7:00 pm 11 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm Apodeipnon/ Compline 7:00 pm 18 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm Apodeipnon/ Compline 7:00 pm 25 Holy Monday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9am Bridegroom Service 7pm 5 GOYA Sights & Sounds Rehearsal 7 pm AHEPA 90th Anniversary Meeting 7 pm Pan-Macedonian Dance Rehearsal 8:00 pm 12 Pan-Macedonian Dance Rehearsal 8:00 pm 19 Pan-Macedonian Dance Rehearsal 8:00 pm 26 Holy Tuesday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9am Bridegroom Service 7pm 6 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm GOYA Dance Rehearsal following services Parish Council Meeting following services 13 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm GOYA Dance Rehearsal 7:00 pm 20 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm GOYA Dance Rehearsal 7:00 pm 27 Holy Wednesday Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9am Bridegroom Service 3pm The Sacrament of Holy Unction 4pm 7 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm 14 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm 21 Aristotle Academy Greek School 5:30 pm 28 Holy Thursday Divine Liturgy 8am Passion of Christ/Crucifixion 6:30pm 1 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9:00 am JOY Dance 6:00 pm Salutations to the Theotokos 7pm AHEPA/DOP Host Lenten Coffee Hour 8 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9:00 am Salutations to the Theotokos 7pm Sunday School, JOY/HOPE & GOYA Host Lenten Coffee Hour 15 Pre-Sanctified Liturgy 9:00 am JOY Dance 6:00 pm Akathist Hymn 7pm CHION Society & Aristotle Academy Host Lenten Coffee Hour 2 9 DVYC Sights & Holy Trinity, Wilmington, DE All day event. Everyone is welcome to Attend. 16 DVYC Oratorical St. Luke Church Broomall, PA Saturday of Lazarus Orthros/Liturgy 9am 29 Holy Friday The Royal Hours 8am Descent from Cross Apokathelosis 3pm Lamentations - Epitaphios Procession 7pm Breakfast/Tying of Palm Crosses following services (help needed for tying of palms) 30 Holy Saturday Vesperal Divine Liturgy 9-10:30am Vigil of the Resurrection 11pm followed by Resurrection Service/Liturgy & Agape Meal

4 Dear St. George Parishioners: President s Message Spring is in the air. What a wonderful time of spring flowers, green grass and warmer weather. This time of year is also a beautiful time in our church. Kalo Pascha- last month the Lenten Season began. This really is a time to reconnect with your faith. During this time we have many services both at night and during the day, each with a special significance. If you have never partaken in a Pre Sanctified Liturgy it is something to behold. Special Thank You to those who helped prepare and serve the luncheon on Sunday of Orthodoxy. It is such a sight to see our children display their Icons and parade through the church. We concluded this very busy Sunday with a presentation from the Hellenic News on the PISTEVO I Believe. As we look to this month we have so much coming up. Each Friday night there are services that are followed by a Lenten coffee hour hosted by the various organizations of our church, please join us. Also please consider donating to all of the wonderful flowers that decorate our church. Holy Friday is a day of mournful services and preparation. Please join us for this day as well. Saturday of Lazarus is time for us to come together to be prayerful and make palms for the whole community. To be given out on Palm Sunday. The Parish Council will also be hosting our traditional Fish luncheon on Palm Sunday. Have a wonderfully Blessed Pascha Season. Angela P Santora Parish Council President On Saturday, February 27, 2016 our JOY children along with Father Anastasios and parents participated in the DVYC Bible Bowl & Service Project at St. Thomas Church, Cherry Hill, NJ. The event benefited Color A Smile a nonprofit organization that distributes cheerful drawings to Senior Citizens, Our Troops Overseas, and anyone in need of a smile. Every month they mail thousands of new drawings to all the people on their mailing list. This event raised $ and 70 cheerful Coloring Pages that were donated to Color A Smile.

5 Community Shelter Outreach Our parish participates in serving dinner to the men at Safe Harbor Shelter in West Chester. Our parish is responsible for the first Tuesday of each month. It is really a rewarding experience and not that difficult to do. If you would like more information, or wish to sign up to volunteer on a Tuesday, please Effie Hionis at ehionis@hotmail.com or leave a message at (610) and I will call you back. This is an amazing experience to serve Jesus in this way! (Up coming Tuesdays 4/5, 5/3) Many thanks to Evan Andreadis for helping Jerry and I serve this month. The gentlemen at the shelter are very appreciative and we really had an enjoyable time! Dear Sunday School Families, In preparation for Pascha (Easter), there has been great emphasis placed on the teachings of our Lord and Savior. How our Lord and Savior delivered humanity from the power of sin, through HIS saving death. This is why Orthodox Christians celebrate Pascha with such reverence and devotion. Truly, an ideal time to share with your children, the all importance of prayer, fasting and liturgy. During this time, we can never over emphasize the awesome blessing that our Lord and Savior has bestowed upon us, renewal and forgiveness of sins, the New Covenant. I pray you all find peace and clarity during our Great Lent. I'd like to also remind families with older students to please encourage your children to participate in the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival. Please feel free to reach out to me with questions regarding the festival and Sunday School, pattycakridas@yahoo.com. In Christ, Patty Cakridas-Ryan Sunday School Director Priest Discretionary Fund The Priest Discretionary Fund is used by the priest to assist those in need. Examples of how this fund is used includes, assisting the hungry and homeless, assist a parishioner in times of crisis, emergency and/or extreme financial need. The monies used to establish this Discretionary Fund will come from the generous donation of our parishioners and other anonymous donations of our community. If you have a question or a desire to contribute, please ask Father Anastasios about the use of the Discretionary Fund and how you can help. Please remember, if you have already obtained a civil divorce, you must also receive an Ecclesiastical Divorce from the Church This brief process is confidentially handled by the parish priest. You must complete this process in order to be in good standing with the Church, meaning that you may not partake in the Sacramental life of the Church, (example: being a sponsor at a wedding or baptism, receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion and Holy Unction, serving on the Parish Council, voting at Parish Assemblies and entering into another marriage). Please consider your personal situation and be in good standing with the Church. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Fr. Anastasios directly.

6 THIS MONTH AT THE BOOKSTORE Adult Book: The Cross Stands While the World Turns Homilies for the Cycles of the Year Limited amount of Books are signed by Author By: Fr. John Behr Adult Book: The Mystery of Christ Life in Death Limited amount of Books are signed by Author By: Fr. John Behr Children s Book: My Lenten Journey Calendar By: John Boojamra and Erin Kimmett Stop by and visit the BOOKSTORE to purchase these featured books and many other Religious books, gifts, handmade jewelry and other helpful resources that are now available for purchase. The bookstore is open during office hours and Sunday s following Liturgy. Sacramental Registry Funeral * On Thursday, February 11, Isidoros J. Zanikos, age 61 * On Tuesday, February 16, Richard L. Weaver, age 53 * On Friday, February 26, Helen K. Schatz, age 94 * On Friday, March 18, Agisilaos Solanakis, age 87 Baptisms: * On Saturday, March 19, Andrew Robert Hall was baptized, Godparents Evangelia Nezis and Andrew Skoutelas. I pray that everyone has a blessed Lenten season. GOYA UPDATE Our GOYA participated in many activities during the Month of March. First of all, I would like to congratulate our Boys and Girls GOYA Basketball teams for a great season! Both teams won 3rd place in the DVYC League. We thank all of our coaches-coach Alex, Coach John and Coach Angelo for their commitment, dedication, and support all season! We also appreciate all the work Mrs. Angelus does in coordinating and organizing our team efforts. GOYA hosted a delicious breakfast on Forgiveness Sunday. We thank all those that supported our fundraising efforts and appreciate the work of our chefs - Mr. Chris Christou and Mr. Lazarus Christou. GOYA is now preparing for Sights and Sounds which will be held on Saturday, April 9th at Holy Trinity in Wilmington, Delaware. We have been practicing and preparing for the last two months and look forward to a great day! We held a lock-in on March 18-19th which included attending Lenten Services, a spiritual enriching discussion with Fr. Anastasios, Sight and Sounds practice and of course, some fun! We also are continuing our philanthropic work by supporting our on-going canned food collection and by hosting Peanut Butter and Jelly Nights. These nights are a wonderful opportunity for service and fellowship. In Christ, Christina Bourantas GOYA President PROSPHORA /ARTOCLASIA Would you like to donate the Prosphora for a special feast day or your name day, they are available for purchase at $10.00 each. Please contact the church office for more details. Thank you. Artoclasia is available for purchase to celebrate a name day or special occasion from the Philoptochos Society, 5 loaves for $50. Please contact the church office or any Philoptochos member to order. For all memorial services and Artoclasia we kindly ask that you also supply wine and oil for the Altar. Thank you.

7 PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS Kalo Pascha! Special thanks to the AHEPA for a fun time at their annual St. Patrick s Day Party held on Saturday, March 12th. The food was delicious and the entertainment was special. On March 13th, Philoptochos Ladies were busy before services making the Laganas that everyone purchased for Clean Monday. Tarama, Greek Olives, Nuts and Halva were also available. This started our Lenten Season. Orthodox Sunday, March 20th was the beautiful procession of the Holy Cross. After Liturgy there was a screening of PISTEVO I Believe followed by a open discussion. A Lenten Luncheon was prepared by the devoted ladies of Philoptochos and enjoyed by all those in attendance. Icons were mailed to Father Perdomo in Pharr Texas. He will then fly to Mexico and distribute them to the many Orthodox Mission in need. Thank you to all who were kind enough to donate an Icon. The Missions will benefit from the kindness of our Beloved St. George. This is just one ministry of Philoptochos. We still need ladies who are willing to donate some time, or talent to Philoptochos. You need not be involved in every activity or attend each meeting. Please come and listen the next time we have a meeting. I think you will be surprised at what Philoptochos does nation wise, and in our own community. One final note, there are many, many Lenten Services from now until Pascha. Please take some time and plan on attending services. They are wonderfully uplifting and meaningful. In Philoptochos Love, Diane Polites Nayman President BERTHA S BUNDLES - HELP NEW MOTHER S IN NEED The Philoptochos Society has an on going commitment to collect new born clothing and small items for new mothers called BERTHA S BUNDLES. All items are given to Riddle Hospital for mothers in need. This is not a one time donation, but a monthly gift to the hospital. When possible can you please drop off NEW clothing to the office and a Philoptochos Member will collect them.with thanks

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9 Note of Thanks from Maria Nazaridis I would like to thank Father Anastasios, Angie Santora, Diane Nayman, Soula Nikolaidis and all those who attended the memorial service for my husband Theodoros Nazaridis and assisted with the coffee hour. May His Memory Be Eternal! From Outreach Evangelism Outreach@GOARCH.org Beloved in Christ, we have to see ourselves as being different than the world around us! As Christians we are called to be in the world, but not of the world. (John 15:19). The Scripture says come out and be separate.. (2 Cor. 6:17) Salutations to the Theotokos Services Every Friday during Great Lent we honor the Mother of our Lord at 7pm. After Services please join us for a Lenten coffee hour sponsored by the organizations of our Parish: Friday, April 1: Friday, April 8: Friday, April 15: Thank you. AHEPA & Daughters of Penelope Sunday School, JOY/HOPE & GOYA CHION Society & Aristotle St. George

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11 THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT- SUNDAY OF THE HOLY CROSS (Mark 8:34-38: 9:1) Sunday, April 3 This Sunday commemorates the venerable Cross and the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Cross as such takes on meaning and adoration because of the Crucifixion of Christ upon it. Therefore, whether it be in hymns or prayers, it is understood that the Cross without Christ has no meaning or place in Christianity. The adoration of the Cross in the middle of Great Lent is to remind the faithful in advance of the Crucifixion of Christ. Therefore, the passages from the Bible and the hymnology refer to the Passions, the sufferings, of Jesus Christ: The passages read this day repeat the calling of the Christian by Christ to dedicate his life, for "If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me (Christ)" (v ). This verse clearly indicates the kind of dedication which is needed by the Christian in three steps: 1. To renounce his arrogance and disobedience to God's Plan, 2. To lift up his personal cross (the difficulties of life) with patience, faith and the full acceptance of the Will of God without complaint that the burden is too heavy; having denied himself and lifted up his cross leads him to the, 3. Decision to follow Christ. These three voluntary steps are three links which cannot be separated from each other, because the main power to accomplish them is the Grace of God, which man always invokes. The Adoration of the Cross is expressed by the faithful through prayer, fasting, almsgiving and the forgiveness of the trespasses of others. On this Sunday the Adoration of the Cross is commemorated with a special service following the Divine Liturgy in which the significance of the Cross is that it leads to the Resurrection of Christ. FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT-ST. JOHN OF THE CLIMAX (LADDER) (Mark 9:17-31) Sunday, April 10 This Sunday commemorates St. John of the Climax (6th century) who is the writer of the book called The Ladder (climax) of Paradise. This book contains 30 chapters, with each chapter as a step leading up to a faithful and pious life as the climax of a Christian life. The spirit of repentance and devotion to Christ dominates the essence of this book, along with the monastic virtues and vices. He was an ascetic and writer on the spiritual life as a monk-abbot of Sinai Monastery. These steps of the ladder as set forth by St. John are to be practiced by the Christian especially during this period of the Great Lent. Each step leading to the top step of the ladder, is the climactic essence of the true meaning of a Christian life. FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT - ST. MARY OF EGYPT (Mark 10:32-45) Sunday, April 17 This Sunday commemorates the life of St. Mary of Egypt, who is a shining example of repentance from sin through prayer and fasting. She lived a sinful life for many years, but was converted to a Christian life. She went into the wilderness to live an ascetic life for many years, praying and fasting in repentance of her previous sinful life, and dying there. St. Mary's life exemplifies her conviction about Christ, which motivated the changing of her life from sin to holiness through repentance. Her understanding of repentance involved not a mere change from small things in her life, but an extreme change of her entire attitude and thoughts. The Church commemorates St. Mary for her recognition of her own sins as an example of how one can free oneself from the slavery and burden of wrongdoings. This recognition of sin is imperative during Lent for the faithful as a means of self-examination and preparation for a more virtuous life in anticipation of the Crucifixion and the Resurrection of Christ.

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14 HOLY WEEK The period of Great Lent includes the days of Holy Week. This is the time when Christians who went through the whole period of Lent in prayer and fasting approach the Feast of Feasts to celebrate the Passions of Christ and His Resurrection. During the entire Lent the faithful try to practice and live the ideals and standards of this period in the light of Easter. This is why the Hymnology of the entire period of Lent, especially during Holy Week, refers to the Resurrection of Christ as the center of the Christian Faith. Each day of Holy Week is dedicated to the Events and teachings of Christ during His last week on earth. The faithful who participate in the services of this week are more conscious of their duties to themselves and to their neighbors through fasting, praying, giving alms, forgiving the trespasses of others; in other words, participating, day by day, in the spirit of the Gospel of Christ. The services of Holy Week transform us into eyewitnesses and direct participants in the awesome events of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. In readings taken from both Old and New Testaments, in hymns, processions, and liturgical commemoration, we see the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies, and the mighty acts by which God Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, grants us forgiveness for our sins, and rescues us from the pain of eternal death. PALM SUNDAY EVENING - Matthew 21: This evening's service calls to mind the beginning of Jesus' suffering. The gospel describes the plotting of the priests and elders to trap Jesus into convicting Himself as a religious heretic. Through parables, Jesus tells us of His coming betrayal, trial, conviction and execution by crucifixion. The hymns of this service commemorate two things; the first, the prophetic figure of Joseph, who, while virtuous, nonetheless suffered unjustly at the hands of his brothers before being greatly rewarded, and the second, the parable of the fig tree, which in failing to bear fruit, became a symbol of fallen creation, and of our own lives, in which we also have failed to bear spiritual fruit. HOLY MONDAY EVENING - Matthew 22:15-46; 23:1-39. This evening's theme is the need for watchfulness and preparation, lest we be called unprepared before the awesome judgment seat of Christ to render an account of ourselves. The gospel reading contrasts the efforts of the Pharisees to trick and discredit Jesus, with the forceful resistance which Christ mounts against their evil. The hymns remind us of the parable of the Ten Virgins, in which the faithful Christian is exhorted to vigilance. HOLY TUESDAY EVENING - John 12: The need for true repentance is the concern of Tuesday evening's service. This transformation from the life of sin to a life of faith and obedience is exemplified for us in the person of the sinful woman who received the gift for forgiveness when she anointed Jesus with myrrh and washed His feet. The highlight of the service is the hymn written in honor of this woman by St. Kassiani. The Gospel meditation foretells of the coming suffering of Christ and recalls His inner struggles and agony. HOLY WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING - Epistle readings: James 1:10-16, Romans 15:1-7, I Corinthians 12: :1-8, II Corinthians 1:8-11. Galatians 5:22-6:2, I Thessalonians 5: Gospel readings: Luke 10:21-37, Luke 19:1-10, Matthew 10:1 & 10:5-8, Matthew 8:14-23, Matthew 25:1-13, Matthew 15:21-28, and Matthew 5:5-13. The primary theme of Holy Wednesday is our human need for the healing and forgiveness that comes into our lives when we establish a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We are reminded that the way to this relationship is to be found, above all else, through the life of prayer. In the Sacrament of Holy Unction, the faithful are anointed and thus, healed both physically and spiritually. They are also reconciled to God and one another so that they might receive the gift of the Holy Eucharist instituted by Christ at the Last Supper.

15 HOLY THURSDAY MORNING - Matthew 26:2-20, John 13:3-17, Matthew 26:21-39, Luke 22:43-45, and Matthew 26:40-27:2. On Holy Thursday morning, we ascend Mt. Zion with Christ and the Twelve, and enter into the upper room. Once there, we witness the awesome moment when, at the Last Supper, Christ abolishes the ritual practice of the Old Covenant and establishes the ritual of the New Covenant, prophesied by Jeremiah, through the Sacrament of Holy Communion. The faithful receive Holy Communion at that Holiest of Liturgies. HOLY THURSDAY EVENING - In this service, we commemorate the undeserved suffering of Jesus Christ, endured for our sake, so that we might be reconciled anew to God our Father. The Gospel readings witness for us the betrayal and arrest of Jesus, his trial and conviction, and finally his torture, crucifixion and death at the hands of a sinful humanity. This evening's service also includes the procession representing Christ carrying His own cross along the Via Dolorosa, and ends when we see before us the King of Glory crucified. HOLY FRIDAY AFTERNOON - I Corinthians 1:18-2:2, Matthew 27:1-38, Luke 23:39-43, Matthew 27:39-54, John 19:31-37, and Matthew 27: In this service, we are once again reverent witnesses to the undeserved suffering of Christ, to his terrible passion and death. What is remembered in a special way through liturgical commemoration and procession, is the faithfulness and love of Joseph of Arimathea who tenderly removed Christ's body from the cross, wrapped it in clean linen, and carried it to his own unused tomb for burial. HOLY FRIDAY EVENING - Ezekiel 37:1-14, I Corinthians 5:6-8, Galatians 3:13-14, Matthew 27: On Good Friday evening, the theme is Christ's descent into Hades during which the Gospel of repentance and reconciliation with God is shared with those who died before Christ's saving dispensation in the flesh. The service begins with lamentations sung as we stand before the tomb of Christ commemorating His unjust punishment and the shedding of His innocent blood. But the service ends on a note of joy and hope, with the reading of the Prophet Ezekiel in which he describes his vision of our resurrection yet to come; in the midst of despair, we are told there is hope, for not even death can separate us from the unfailing love and power of God. Death is about to be conquered and faithfulness rewarded.

16 HOLY SATURDAY MORNING - Romans 6:3-11, Matthew 28:1-20. On Holy Saturday morning we celebrate the theme of faithfulness receiving its reward. The crucifixion is over, Christ is buried, the twelve apostles and other disciples are scattered and defeated. And yet, three myrrh-bearing women come in faithfulness to perform the last act of love--to anoint Jesus according to the Jewish burial custom. Their unwavering devotion is rewarded--they are the first to share in Christ's triumph over evil and death. They are the first witnesses to the Resurrection. This joy is commemorated through the scattering of bay leaves and rose petals by the priest. HOLY SATURDAY EVENING - EASTER SUNDAY MORNING - Mark 16:1-8. The lamentations of the previous night are repeated and the church is plunged into darkness to symbolize the despair and defeat experienced before the dawn of Christ's victory over the Enemy of our salvation. Precisely at midnight, a single light emerges from the altar representing the victory of Christ over death, the defeat of the Prince of Darkness by Jesus, the Light of the World. As the light is passed from person to person, it pushes back the darkness of the church and defeats it completely. The Resurrection is proclaimed in song and triumphant procession, and after the Liturgy, its light is carried into our homes so that they too might be filled with its light and warmth and triumph. EASTER SUNDAY MORNING - John 20: Christ's Resurrection and victory is affirmed in this morning's theme. The Gospel is read in several languages to illustrate the universality of the Good News of the Resurrection and its proclamation to the very ends of the earth. Love, forgiveness, reconciliation, triumph and joy--these are the gifts which we receive because Christ lived and died and triumphed for our sake. GLORY BE TO HIM FOR ALL THINGS, AND MAY YOUR EASTER BE BLESSED!

17 Ecclesiastical Altar Items made in Greece Our parish is requesting donors for the following altar items. What more beautiful way to honor a family event or to honor the memory of a loved one than by donating the Holy Altar Covering Embroidered Table Cloths. Each set is used for particular religious periods. Each color is representative of the period. These are not decorations they are required religious items. Perhaps you know a relative or friend that would be interested in donating an item to the church for Christmas, or perhaps before the end of the year. If you would like to donate any of the following items, please contact the church One (1) Chalice Cover Set One (1) Grand Christos Anesti Ribbon for Royal Gates Banners (Lavaro) One (1) St. George Banner $1, One (1) Myrrh Bearers Banner $1, Donated by the Koban-Hogue Family Donated by Constantin & Fani Zikas Ribbons Four Purple Ribbons (used for Holy Week) Donated by faithful parishioners Two Green Ribbons (used for Pentecost & Summer Services) Donated by Nick & Maria Filopoulos Two Blue Ribbons (used for Feast Days of the Virgin Mary) Donated by faithful parishioners Holy Altar Covering Table Cloths Embroidered White Covering (used for Christmas) $1, Gold Covering (used for Sundays of Great Lent) Donated by GOYA Purple Covering (used for Holy Week) Donated by a faithful parishioner Red Covering (used for Easter & Days of the Holy Martyrs) $1, Green Covering (used for Pentecost & Summer Services) $1, Blue Covering (used for Feast Days of the Virgin Mary) Donated by Paraskevi Fotiades & Family: Despo Tatasore & Family, Roula Alexander & Family and George Fotiades & Family in memory of Panagoti (Peter) Fotiades loving husband and father. PHILOPTOCHOS ICON PROJECT The ladies of Philoptochos along with your help will be collecting new or slightly used Icons for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center). Under the direction of OCMC, these Icons will be sent to Father Antonio Perdomo, an Orthodox Priest in Pharr, Texas. Father Antonio has a long standing relationship with the Orthodox Missions in Mexico. I was surprised to learn that there are thousands of Aztecs in Mexico who are Orthodox Christians. Once the Icons are received by Father Antonio, he will take them to the missions in Mexico. A heart warming feeling to all that contributes to this Philoptochos cause. ICON INSTRUCTIONS Ideal size of Icons should be 8x10 or smaller. The Icon should be wrapped as to not scratch the exterior. We, of course will pack with bubble wrap, when delivered we do not want the Icons resting on one another without protection. If you would like to donate an Icon to this worthwhile project, and do not have one, please see Presvytera in the bookstore and she will help you find a suitable Icon to purchase. This is a short term project and will end within the month. A box will be in the church office for your convenience, or you can give me your gift personally.

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20 CHESTER-DELCO AHEPA CHAPTER NO. 79 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM SPRING 2016 The E in Ahepa stands for Educational. That is a major mission of the organization. For many years, Chester-Delco Ahepa Chapter No. 79 has been awarding scholarships to young adults affiliated with the local Ahepa and/or Daughters Chapters and/or with St. George Greek Orthodox Church of Media, PA. In 2015 alone, there were twelve recipients receiving a total of $12,000 in scholarships from the Chapter. Over the years, over $100,000 has been awarded to our worthy youth. However, the numbers of youth in the Community is expanding. In order to maintain and grow the Scholarship Program to accommodate the ever increasing numbers of worthy students, more funds are needed. Chester-Delco Ahepa Chapter No. 79 is now actively soliciting tax deductible donation funds for scholarships and seeking the support of philanthropic and generous individuals and organizations so that we may have more resources to support these capable young people as they engage in their academic pursuits. In 2000, the Chapter established two named, perpetual, scholarships dedicated to Brothers Steve M. Pahides and George N. Kaloudis in recognition of their dedication and love of the Order. In 2006, the Chapter dedicated a third named, perpetual, scholarship to the Kaffes Family as appreciation for their years of devotion and support to the AHEPA Family. Since 2007, a named scholarship has been given as a memorial to Brother Angello J. Contoris in loving memory by his family as a testament to his years of devotion to the AHEPA, as well as to the youth of St. George as their Greek School instructor. Since 2008, Mary Beldecos and Helen J. Beldecos have generously donated a named scholarship. Since 2009, our sister chapter, the Daughters of Penelope Laodice #246, donated a named scholarship. In 2015, we were also blessed by generous named scholarship donations from the Chion Society, the St. George Golf Tournament, Nick and Andrea Perakis, Bill and Stephanie Kalogredis, and Nick and Mary Skoutelas. Nick and Susan Nicolaides have generously funded a Perpetual Scholarship Mary Jane Nicolaides Memorial. We thank them! We are truly thankful for the generous donors who through the years have continued to support the ideals of the AHEPA and the growth of the Scholarship Program. We welcome others to assist in this worthy endeavor. May God Bless them all! Donations of any size would be greatly appreciated and useful. To dedicate a named scholarship for the Spring of 2016, a minimum donation of $1,000 is required to be received by the Chapter by February 15, If you want the tax deduction for 2015, please get your donation to us by December 31, Please make out your checks to Chester-Delco AHEPA Chapter 79 and mail it to Bill Kalogredis, 195 Pheasant Run Road, West Chester, PA If anyone wishes to establish a perpetual named scholarship, a $30,000 donation is required. This may be paid over a time period of five or fewer years. Once the donated amount totals $30,000, the awarding of the perpetual scholarship in the name of the donor s choice will begin. If you have any questions or would like to donate, please contact Bill Kalogredis at (610) (or by BKalogredis@KSDBHealthlaw.com), George Kaffes at (610) , or Jim Kemmerer at (978) Thank you!

21 DAUGHTER OF PENELOPE #246 UPDATE May you have a Blessed Great Lent as we await the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. On Saturday, March 12th members of our chapter participated in the Eastern Sector Seminar Operation Backpack which was held at Maggiano s in King of Prussia, PA. Our Chapter contributed $100 of school supplies to be used to fill the back packs for children in need. Connie Pilallis, Grand President, Kim Krawizcki, District Governor #4 and The Honorable Ourania Papademetriou attended as well and participated in the event. The afternoon was enjoyed by all in attendance as they worked together to assemble the backpacks. In Christ, Donna Matekovic DOP #246 President DAUGHTER OF PENELOPE BIENNIAL HAT PARTY LUNCHEON SATURDAY, MAY 7, 2016 CONCORD COUNTRY CLUB AHEPA #79 UPDATE The mission of the AHEPA & DOP Family is to promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence. Well, another St. Patrick s Celebration is in the books, and it was a good one!! I want to thank all that came and supported this event as it will definitely benefit the youth of St. George in their college expenses. It was a well-attended event and a fun one! Many people to thank for the success of our Celebration of St. Patrick. First, the hard working people in the kitchen! Several people lent a hand with some preparations, but I want to particularly point out the efforts of four people who, for four years straight, prepared some really great food for this event Chris Christou, John Wilson, Manoli Papadopoulis, and Mary Koban. What most aren t aware of, the preparation is a 2-day event! So a lot of hard work goes into it and I am very grateful! Also, the dessert was prepared by Fran Hourican, using an old family recipe Auntie Liz would be proud! The Brother AHEPAn s time and generosity is always invaluable. Some Daughters also got involved. Thanks to the Wilson family for decorating the hall! As usual, it looked great! As you see, any event like this can only work with a lot of help from the community, and the attendance of so many. It was also an honor to have several dignitaries from the Daughters of Penelope in attendance, including the Grand Supreme President, District Governor, and District Lt. Governor, as well as the AHEPA District Governor, Secretary, and Treasurer. It made our event feel even more special. And lastly, I want to thank Father Anastasios for the beautiful bio of St. Patrick to kick off the event. You could say he enlightened the crowd about the Enlightener of Ireland. Hope all the scholarship apps are in!! We are looking forward to our annual scholarship presentations next! Remember to mark your calendar Friday, November 4, 2016, at the Mendallhall Inn is the date for the Chester- Delco Chapter #79 AHEPA Family Reunion. Celebrate 90 years of our AHEPA Chapter, plus 65 years of our Daughters of Penelope Chapter! It will be an event not to miss! Lastly, welcome to our newest AHEPA Brother, Jim Stelios, who joined our ranks during our March meeting. Membership makes it all work! Rick Hogue AHEPA Chapter #79 President

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23 St. George Greek Orthodox Church Banquet Hall Available Anniversaries Birthdays Corporate Training Conferences Performances Meetings Formal Events Fund-Raisers 30 East Forge Road Media PA Tel: Fax: GREAT SUNDAY CONCORDVILLE INN ADVERTISING SPACE AVAILABLE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE

24 Saint George Greek Orthodox Church 30 East Forge Road Media, PA Rev. Fr. Anastasios Bourantas, Economos NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 435 MEDIA, PA Return Service Requested Mailed on March 22, 2016 SOLD TO: PAID (Check/Cash) TELEPHONE: AMOUNT DUE: Firm Due Date for Orders: Friday, April 15, 2016 Pick-up Date: Sunday, April 24, 2016 (Palm Sunday) DATE ORDER TAKEN Checks Payable to: Philoptochos Society Philoptochos Society -- Ai Miroforoi Easter Bread Order Form Round loaves Nine (9)-inch with Red Egg $10 each Round loaves Ten (10)-inch with Red Egg $12 each Long Braided Loaves $10 each Total Cost of Order Return this form to: Mrs. Angie P. Santora or call Mrs. Diane P. Nayman or call