T C + R F F G V D P S. Hi-Lites. Great and Holy Pascha April 8 St. Thomas April 15 Myrrh-Bearing Women April 22 Greek Independence Day Commemorated

Transcription

1 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Volume April 2018 Issue T C + R I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : April Sundays, Acolytes, Readers 2,3,5, 10,11 Holy Week 4-5 Registry / Announcements Youth Director Welcome Church, Club & Community News Past and Upcoming Events Festival Volunteer Form F F G V D My viewpoint on the Feast Day of the Resurrection is the most memorable experience of the year. As the Altar Boys are passing the light to our faithful and our dark Church glows with the light of piety amongst our people, we see the ultimate victory celebration, as Christ is risen is loudly proclaimed. Quite a bit of conversation has taken place regarding the bridges that stretch out across our Country. The age of one of these bridges clearly shows, necessary maintenance is required, and the availability or lack of availability of the necessary funds to fix these bridges comes into play. Rev. Dumitru Stanloae is his book, The Experience of God reminds us that Christ is the bridge between earth and heaven. We must always remember that there is continuity between our life on earth and the life in heaven. Saint Maximus the Confessor says, The door of the Kingdom of Heaven will not open if we do not knock at the door. What will we have to say when the journey to the Kingdom of Heaven will be open for us? How will we be able to justify our actions on earth, and our lack of asking for forgiveness for the results of our actions? I am sure that each one of our homes contains mirrors. In these mirrors we see our bodily reflections, but what about inside? Have we done a self-analysis into who we really are and what we have done or not done which shapes our Orthodox character? The light of the Resurrection must burn longer than the end of the Paschal Service. The empty tomb and empty Cross reminds us of the immeasurable love that God has for us, His children, and what our own destiny is, that being the entrance into His Holy Kingdom. PC Minutes 10 Mission Walk Calendar Hi-Lites 11 Great and Holy Pascha April 8 St. Thomas April 15 Myrrh-Bearing Women April 22 Greek Independence Day Commemorated Page 8 Bad Boys of the Bible May 16 P S As by baptism we were buried with Thee, O Christ our God, so by Thy Resurrection we were deemed worthy of immortal life; and praising Thee, we cry: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. In Heaven, He is seated upon a Throne and on earth He rides upon a foal. O Christ our God, accept the praise of the Angels and the hymn of the Children who cry out to You, "Blessed are You who comes to recall Adam."

2 The Cross+Roads Page 2 Glory Be To God Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Phone (757) Fax (757) Addresses: priest@ office@ parishcouncil@ youthdirector@ webmaster@ admin@ schgochurch.va.goarch.org Office Hours Monday Through Friday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Priest Father George Chioros Work Home Mobile frgchioros@aol.com Parish Council Frank Peri, President John Dermanis, Vice Pres. Zena Mageras, Treasurer Bobby Garofalis, Asst. Treas. Kent Paumier, Secretary Greg Bicouvaris Stavroula Gailey Tom Grepiotis Nick Matthews Anastasia Theodorogiannis Barry Hendricks, Past Pres. Chanters Tim Sofis Harry Fotiou John Williams Brian Fink George Petrakos Church Secretary Sylvia Marcin Archdiocese on the web A S Apolytikion for Saints Constantine & Helen, Equal-to-the Apostles in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone Having seen the image of Thy Cross in Heaven, and like Paul, having received the call not from men, Thine apostle among kings entrusted the commonwealth to Thy hand, O Lord. Keep us always in peace, by the intercessions of the Theotokos, O only Friend of man. Τοῦ Σταυροῦ σου τὸν τύπον ἐν οὐρανῷ θεασάμενος, καὶ ὡς ὁ Παῦλος τὴν κλήσιν οὐκ ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δεξάμενος, ὁ ἐν βασιλεύσιν, Ἀπόστολός σου Κύριε, Βασιλεύουσαν πόλιν τὴ χειρί σου παρέθετο ἣν περίσωζε διὰ παντὸς ἐν εἰρήνῃ, πρεσβείαις τῆς Θεοτόκου, μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε. APRIL 1 EPISTLE READING Philippians 4:4-9 BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is Philoptochos Stavroula Gailey, President Religious Education Helen Micha, Director Greek School Paula Tofalli, Aphrodite Christopoulos Youth Ministry Stephanie Peri and Kent Paumier, Advisors Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Helen Micha, Director Bookstore Elizabeth Puckett Cross+Roads Nick Vlattas P M O lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you. GOSPEL READING John 12:1-18 Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazaros was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazaros was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me." When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazaros, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazaros also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazaros out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Gerontios & Vasilides the Martyrs Palm Sunday On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city. When the multitude there (Continued on page 3) Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA) Christina Myers, President Kent Paumier, Advisor Young Adult League (YAL) Anastasia Theodorogiannis, President Golden Hearts Helen George, President Order of AHEPA Nick Matthews, President Daughters of Penelope Kathy Matthews, President Hellenic Womens Penelope Society Aleksandra Garofalis, Helen Vaughn, Co-Presidents Hellenic Youth Dancers Bobby Garofalis, Director

3 The Cross+Roads Page 3 ACOLYTES APRIL 1 & 22 Team A Jorgie Polyzos Yianni Tsimplekis James St. Martin Dean Peri APRIL 29 Team B Ethan Detweiler Cris Campbell Soterios Tofalli Kyprianos Tofalli APRIL 15 Team C Hayden Hendricks Georgios Haramis Christos Konstantinou Christopher Myers Christopher Micha EPISTLE READERS Please contact Barry Hendricks if you are interested in reading the Epistle during the Sunday Divine Liturgy. bhendricks@cox.net APRIL 1 (Palm Sunday) Dianne Sun / Stavroula Gailey 4 (Holy Unction) 7 GOYA Readers 7 (Holy Saturday Morning) Catherine Fisher 8 (Resurrection) Howard Mandeville 8 (Agape Vespers - Gospel in different languages) Contact Father George or Howard Mandeville 15 Michael Landon 22 Joe Saur 29 Nick Vrettos (Continued from page 2) heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him. Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate today. The branches of the palm trees symbolize Christ's victory over the devil and death. The word Hosanna means "Save, I pray," or "Save, now." The foal of an ass, and Jesus' sitting thereon, and the fact that this animal was untamed and considered unclean according to the Law, signified the former uncleanness and wildness of the nations, and their subjection thereafter to the holy Law of the Gospel. Euthemios of Suzdal Mary of Egypt WISDOM OF THE FATHERS But observe the wisdom of the Evangelist, how he is not ashamed to parade their former ignorance. That it was written they knew, that it was written of Him they knew not. For it would have offended them if He being a King were about to suffer such things and be so betrayed. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 66 on John 12, 2. B#58, p.245., 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the First Mode In confirming the common Resurrection, O Christ God, Thou didst raise up Lazarus from the dead before Thy Passion. Wherefore, we also, like the children, bearing the symbols of victory, cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the Fourth Mode As by baptism we were buried with Thee, O Christ our God, so by Thy Resurrection we were deemed worthy of immortal life; and praising Thee, we cry: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Second Mode In Heaven, He is seated upon a Throne and on earth He rides upon a foal. O Christ our God, accept the praise of the Angels and the hymn of the Children who cry out to You, "Blessed are You who comes to recall Adam." APRIL 8 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 1:1-8 GOSPEL READING John 1:1-17 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Great and Holy Pascha Rufus the Obedient of the Kiev Caves Celestine, Pope of Rome The Holy New Martyr John the Ship-Builder who was martyred in Kos WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Now this is a proof that Christ is God the Word, and the Power of God. For whereas human things cease, and the Word of Christ abides, it is clear to all eyes that what ceases is temporary, but that He Who abides is God, and the true Son of God, His only-begotten Word. St. Athanasius of Alexandria, On the Incarnation 55, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion for Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal First Mode Christ is risen from the dead, by death hath He trampled down death, and on those in the graves hath He bestowed life. Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος. Hypakoe of Great and Holy Pascha in the Fourth Mode When they who were with Mary came, anticipating the dawn, and found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, they heard from the Angel: Why seek ye among the dead, as though He were mortal man, Him Who abideth in everlasting light? Behold the grave-clothes. Go quickly and proclaim to the world that the Lord is risen, and hath put death to death. For He is the Son of God, Who saveth the race of men. Apolytikion for Herodion, Agabus, Rufus, Asyncritus of the 70 in the Third Mode O Holy Apostles, intercede with the merciful God that He grant unto our souls forgiveness of offenses. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrhbearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. APRIL 15 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 5:12-20 GOSPEL READING John 20:19-31 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Crescens the Martyr Leonidas, Bishop of Athens Thomas Sunday Michael the New Martyr of Smyrna Padarn, Bishop and Founder of Llandabarn Fawr WISDOM OF THE FATHERS (Continued on page 5)

4 The Cross+Roads Page 4 H W SATURDAY OF LAZARUS An interlude between Great Lent and Holy Week, the Church names this day the Saturday of Lazarus in remembrance of the resurrection of Lazarus told in the Gospel of John (11:1-45) and its promise of universal resurrection for all men. The Church connects this celebration, by anticipation, with the Entrance of Christ into Jerusalem. PALM SUNDAY Palm Sunday celebrates the glorious and brilliant feast of the Entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem (John 12:1-18). Zechariah had prophesied the entrance of the Messiah into Jerusalem, saying: Rejoice greatly... O daughter of Jerusalem; behold, the King comes unto Thee; he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass, Zech. 9:9. The contemporary Jews associated this prophecy with the expected Messiah. This action of Christ testifies to His nature as Messiah, but with the definite declaration that His Kingdom was not of this world. The main road leading to Jerusalem was covered with palm trees. The multitudes, with palm branches in their hands, spread their cloaks on the road as a show of respect, crying out Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He that comes in the name of the Lord. A custom of distributing branches of palms to the people in the Church prevails to this day. During the remainder of Holy Week, the Church advances its liturgical life by about twelve hours, celebrating morning services the night before, and evening services in the morning. On Palm Sunday evening, the Church celebrates the Orthros (Matins) of Holy Monday, in the first of four Bridegroom Services. Christ is called the Bridegroom because in His Passion, He gives His life for His Bride, the people of God, the Church, just as a husband will sacrifice everything for his wife and family. From Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday, some parishes will celebrate the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in the morning. This very ancient Divine Liturgy is a Vespers Service, with the Holy Communion given from the sanctified gifts from the Liturgy on the previous Sunday. This Liturgy is very solemn, and reflects the grandeur and simplicity of the early Church. In the Orthros of Holy Monday, the Church remembers the blessed and noble Joseph and the fig tree which was cursed and withered by the Lord. In the Orthros of Holy Tuesday, celebrated Holy Monday evening, the Church remembers the parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), who were waiting for the arrival of the Bridegroom at a wedding feast. In the Orthros of Holy Wednesday, the Church remembers the anointing of Christ with myrrh by the woman in the house of Simon, the leper, in Bethany. Saturday of Lazarus Palm Sunday Holy Wednesday Holy Thursday Holy Friday The Lamentations Holy Saturday Agape Vespers This woman demonstrated her repentance and her warm faith toward our Lord. On this evening we hear the beautiful Hymn of Kassiane, which is a hymnological reflection on the repentance of this woman. HOLY WEDNESDAY The Sacrament of Holy Unction takes place on Holy Wednesday. The Sacrament is for the healing of body and soul. In Orthodox thought, healing is connected to repentance, confession, and the remission of sins by the Lord. Holy Unction is the for cleansing sins and renewing the body and the spirit of the faithful. Holy Unction is one of the seven Sacraments of the Church, and it has its origin in the practice of the early Church as recorded in the Epistle of James (5:14-15). At the end of the service, the priest anoints the people with Holy Oil. In the Orthros of Holy Thursday, the Church remembers the washing of the disciples feet, the institution of the Holy Eucharist, the Prayer of Christ at the Last Supper as recorded in the Gospel of John, and the betrayal. Some parishes will not celebrate this service, and replace it with the Sacrament of Holy Unction. HOLY THURSDAY In the morning, the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great is celebrated. At this Divine Liturgy, the Church commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist by the Lord at His Last Supper with His disciples. Here, Christ presented bread and wine as His body and blood, which form the core of the new covenant between God and His people, the Church. In the evening, in the Orthros of Holy Friday, the Church recalls the Passion of the Lord, from His betrayal by Judas Iscariot, His agony and arrest at Gethsemane. His trial by Jewish religious leaders and Ro man authorities, His beatings and mocking, and crucifixion and death on the Cross. This service is long, with twelve readings from the Gospels re counting the events, but its content is dramatic and moving. After the reading of the fifth Gospel comes the procession with the icon of the Crucified Christ around the church. HOLY (GOOD) FRIDAY In the morning, the four Royal Hours are read. These services consist of hymns, psalms, and read-ings from the Old and New Testaments, all related propheti-

5 The Cross+Roads Page 5 cally and ethically to the Person of Christ. Usually in mid-afternoon, Great Vespers is chanted. During this service, we hear the story of the Crucifixion, but with attention paid to the death of Christ, the work of Joseph of Arimathea to secure the body of Christ from Pilate, His re moval from the cross, and His burial. At one point in the reading, the Body of Christ is removed the cross, wrapped in a white cloth and is brought into the sanctuary. Following the reading, the priest carries the icon of the Epitaphi os through the church and places it in the Sephul chre (the kouvouklion), which has been decorated with flowers. GOOD FRIDAY EVENING THE LAMENTATIONS On Holy Friday evening, we sing the Orthros of Holy Saturday, consisting of psalms, hymns and readings, dealing with the death of Christ. During the Orthros, the congregation will join in chanting the Lamentations, hymns of praise to the Lord and relating His ultimate triumph over death. During this service the Epitaphios icon is carried in pro cession around the church. In some parishes the entire flower-bedecked Sepulcher, symbolizing the Tomb, is carried in the procession. GREAT HOLY SATURDAY MORNING On Holy Saturday morning, the Vesperal Divine Liturgy is celebrated. In this Liturgy, the Resurrection of Christ is celebrated and the triumph over death is proclaimed in the hymns and the readings from the Old and New Testament. There is a strong theme of baptism in this liturgy, because in the ancient H W S Church, the catechumens would be baptized in this evening vigil of Pascha. At midnight Saturday, the lifegiving Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is celebrated. Be -fore midnight, the Odes of Lamentation of the previ ous day are repeated. The Orthros of the Resurrection begins in complete darkness. The priest takes light from the vigil light and gives it to the faithful, who are holding candles. The priest sings, Come, receive light from the unwaning light, and glorify Christ, who arose from the dead. Just a short while later, the priest reads the resurrection story from the Gospel of Mark (16:1-8) and leads the congregation in singing the Resurrection Hymn, Christ is risen from the dead, trampling death by death, and to those in the tombs bestowing life. Following, the Orthros service continues and leads into the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. THE AGAPE VESPERS At some point on Sunday afternoon the faithful gather once more for Great Vespers, With lighted candles they sing, Christ is risen. The people greet one another with the salutation, Christ is Risen, which is answered, Truly He is Risen. In the Great Vespers, the Gospel according to John (20:19-25) is read in various languages, proclaiming the Good News of Resurrection all over the universe without discrimination. The fruit of faith in the Resurrection of the Lord is love in His Name; therefore, this day is called Sunday of Agape. For the next forty days, the Orthodox Church commemorates the Resurrection of Christ. Published by Faith and Live of Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Sunday, April 1 First Nymphios 7:00pm Monday, April 2 Presantified Liturgy 10:00am Monday, April 2 Second Nymphios 7:00pm Tuesday, April 3 Presanctified Liturgy 10:00am Tuesday, April 3 Third Nymphios 7:00pm Wednesday, April 4 Presanctified Liturgy 10:00am Wednesday, April 4 Holy Unction 7:00pm Thursday, April 5 Vesperal Liturgy 7:00am Thursday, April 5 Holy Passions 7:00pm Friday, April 6 Royal Hours 9:00am Friday, April 6 Apokathelosis 3:00pm Friday, April 6 Lamentations 7:00pm Saturday, April 7 Vesperal Liturgy 8:00am Saturday, April 7 Resurrection, Pascha 11:00pm Sunday, April 8 Agape Vespers 11:00am A S (Continued from page 3) For great is the dignity of the priests.... And hold them very exceedingly in honor; for you indeed care about your own affairs, and if you order them well, you give no account for others;... St. John Chrysostom, Homily 86, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal First Mode Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life. Apolytikion for Thomas Sun. in the Grave Mode Whilst the tomb was sealed, Thou, O Life, didst shine forth from the grave, O Christ God; and whilst the doors were shut, Thou didst come unto Thy disciples, O Resurrection of all, renewing through them an upright Spirit in us according to Thy great mercy. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrhbearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. APRIL 22 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7 GOSPEL READING Mark 15:43-47; 16:1-8 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women Nathaniel, Luke, & Clemente the Apostles Theodore of Sykeon Gregory Gravanos of Nisyros Nearchos the Martyr WISDOM OF THE FATHERS They [the women] had followed Him ministering to Him, and were present even unto the time of the dangers. Wherefore also they saw all; how He cried, how He gave up the ghost, how the rocks were rent, and all the rest. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 88 on Matthew 27, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal First Mode Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life. Apolytikion for Holy Myrrhbearers Sunday in the Second Mode When Thou didst descend unto death, O Life Immortal, then didst Thou slay Hades with the lightning of Thy Divinity. And when Thou didst also raise the dead out of the nethermost depths, all the powers in the Heavens cried out: O Life-giver, Christ our God, glory be to Thee. Apolytikion for Holy Myrrhbearers Sunday in the Second Mode The noble Joseph, taking Thine immaculate Body down from the Tree, and having wrapped It in pure linen and spices, laid It for burial in a new tomb. But on the third day Thou didst arise, O Lord, granting great mercy to the world. Ὁ εὐσχήμων Ἰωσήφ, ἀπὸ τοῦ ξύλου καθελὼν τὸ ἄχραντόν σου Σῶμα, σινδόνι καθαρᾷ, εἱλήσας καὶ ἀρώμασιν, ἐν μνήματι καινῷ κηδεύσας ἀπέθετο, ἀλλὰ τριήμερος ἀνέστης Κύριε, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος. Apolytikion for Holy Myrrhbearers Sunday in the Second Mode Unto the myrrh-bearing women did the Angel cry out as he stood by the grave: Myrrh oils are meet for the dead, but Christ hath proved to be a stranger to corruption. But cry out: The Lord is risen, granting great mercy to the world. Ταῖς Μυροφόροις Γυναιξί, παρὰ τὸ μνῆμα ἐπιστάς, ὁ Ἄγγελος ἐβόα. Τὰ μύρα τοῖς θνητοῖς ὑπάρχει ἁρμόδια, Χριστὸς δὲ διαφθορᾶς ἐδείχθη ἀλλότριος, ἀλλὰ κραυγάσατε, Ἀνέστη ὁ Κύριος, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' (Continued on page 10)

6 The Cross+Roads Page 6 C R / A BIRTHS Our best wishes and sincere congratulations to Andrew and Antonia Reeves on the birth of their daughter on March 1. Grandparents Marcella Lolos and Steve Golas. 40-DAY BLESSINGS The infant son of Anthony & Sophia Waltz received his 40-day blessing in our Church on March 11. The infant son of Samuel & Mary Ann McCormick received his 40-day blessing in our Church on March 11. May the blessings of our Church be with the newly-churched infants as well as with their parents, grandparents and their entire families. BAPTISM The infant son of Michael and Melissa Chalkias was baptized in our Church March 24. Ms. Natasha Call served as the Godmother. Our best wishes to the newly-baptized infant and our sincere congratulations to his parents, godparents and his entire family. NA SAS ZISI!!!!! ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS We wish a speedy and complete recovery to our friends and fellow parishioners who have been ill and/ or hospitalized recently: Joanna Bossetti and Christine Vassilakos. PERASTIKA SAS, ladies!!!!! DEATHS Our sincere condolences to the family of Athina Neofitou who died on February 28 and whose funeral services were held in Baltimore March 3. The late Athina Neofitou was the mother of our fellow parishioner, Argie Maurakis,. Our sincere condolences to the family of Georgia Koulopoulos who passed away in Greece, March 3. The late Georgia Koulopoulos was the W Y D sister of our fellow parishioner, Zoe Marcopoulos. Our sincere condolences to the family of Charita Stavrou who died on March 24 and whose funeral services were held at our church on March 27. MAY THEIR MEMORY BE ETERNAL!!!!! THE ANASTASIOS L. DANIEL SCHOLARSHIP The Parish Council will one again administer an annual scholarship established by the Estate of beloved parishioner Anastasios 'Danny' L. Daniel. We welcome graduating High School seniors of the Orthodox Faith to apply by picking up an application in the Church office. Additional eligibility information and requirements as outlined by the estate will accompany the application. Completed applications must be returned to the Church postmarked by April 30, HELLENIC YOUTH DANCERS The Hellenic Youth Dancers (HYD) wish to thank the entire parish for participating in the luncheon held on February 25th. The HYD would also like to thank all of those that participated in the preparation for the event, the cooking, the serving, the donations, and the cleaning. Thank you to all that have purchased the luminaries to be displayed on the evening of Good Friday's church service during Holy Week. Luminaries are available for purchase until Good Friday. Congratulations to Alexis Capobianco and Ethan Detweiler for being selected as Odyssey recipients by the Hellenic Dance Festival committee! The two will travel to Thessaloniki, Greece with the Odyssey group to participate in dance workshops, perform for the locals, and visit cultural, historical, and religious sites. The trip will be held in June PASCHAL MEAL The Parish Council will be hosting the Paschal Meal following the Resurrection Service on April 8. Mariam Canavos is 23 years old and a faithful pious Orthodox Christian. She grew up attending St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Houston, Texas where she was an active member along with serving on the board of their youth group. While attending University of Houston, where she graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology, Mariam was also Vice President of their OCF. Mariam was not only active at her parish but also active in YES trips, Real Break, various Orthodox camps, and Ionian Village Spiritual Odyssey where she met her husband Samson Canavos. Mariam is grateful to be serving at Sts. Constantine and Helen, and hopes to not only become a welcome member of the parish but also to give all she can in service to God and this beautiful community. ATTENDANCE March March March March Mar 2018 Ave 189 Mar 2017 Ave 146 YTD 2018 Ave 164 YTD 2017 Ave 141 REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts in March. The hosts for April are: April 1: Philoptochos Palm Sunday Luncheon April 8: Great and Holy Pascha April l5: Ms. Anastasia Theodorogiannis, M/M Angelo Theodorogiannis, Mr. Costas Theodorogiannis. M/M Mark Thompson April 22: M/M Mike Tsimplekis, M/M N Pergjola, M/M Tim Vaughn April 29: M/M George Lawton, M/M A. Velissarios, M/M C. Velissarios Koliva If you would like to purchase Koliva for memorials, you may contact: Helen George Anastasia Savrides Athena Savvas Cross+Roads CHURCH LIST Subscribe to the church list for monthly links to the Cross+Roads and important church announcements at: DEADLINE Please information no later than the 20th day of the month to Nick Vlattas nvlattas@hewv.com

7 The Cross+Roads Page 7 C, C C N PHILOPTOCHOS: We sincerely thank all those hard working members of our Society who prepared and served the great variety and delicious plates for our membership tea on March 11. Ladies, as always, a job well done. Also, many thanks to all of you who worked long and hard to prepare and bake our Easter Tsourekia. As you well know, our Vasilopites & Tsourekia projects are our two best fund raisers. So, we thank you for giving so much of your time and talent. And, of course, our most sincere thanks to our non- Philoptochos member gentlemen who are always there to help us, On Good Friday, April 6, Philoptochos will pass its customary Good Friday Tray. Please, be willing to pass the tray if asked to do so. We continue to work with Virginia Oncology under our AOK Project. This is the project where we visit the patients receiving chemotherapy infusions there and to whom we bring a light lunch every Monday of every Month. If you wish to help with this project, please contact Ellie Costulis, H , C and tell her you want to help. Kathy Dermanis and her committee on Literacy Outreach continue to support area schools by collecting and passing over to them "box tops for education". Please, save these "box tops for education" from the items you buy and bring them to us, placing them in the appropriate receptacle in the Church Narthex. Also, if you know of any of our parishioners who may be deployed overseas, let Kathy, (H) , know so that she and her committee, USO/CARE PACK- AGES, can send that person a package with goodies from home. The Ladies Philoptochos Society and The Platon G. Gailey Memorial Scholarship applications are now available in our Church's website. If interested in receiving either scholarship, please, download the applications and note the requirements for completing and submitting them. Completed applications must be postmarked by April 30, For further information you may contact Christine Mignogna, or Hope Zambas, Our obligations to the National for the month of April are: A contribution to the Sisterhood of Saint Basil Academy which provides for the physical needs of the children of Saint Basil Academy as well as graduation costs, awards and gifts; and a contribution to the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) which provides food, shelter and economic self-sufficiency to those in need. Our next regular meeting will be Monday, April 16, starting with refreshments at 6:30pm. Hosting this meeting are Kathy Dermanis and Stavroula Gailey. PHILOPTOCHOS WISHES "KALI ANASTASI" to all our friends and fellow Orthodox. ORDER OF AHEPA Scholarship Applications are still available at the AHEPA FAMI- LY CENTER for both District and local sponsored AHEPA FAMILY scholarships. The deadline for submissions are April 16 th for the District and April 30 th for the local. The COMMUNITY AWARDS LUNCHEON, jointly sponsored by the Daughters of Penelope and our AHEPA chapter is scheduled for Sunday, May 20, 2018 following the Divine Liturgy. Scholarships will be awarded as well as other presentations. All Hellenic Community organizations are invited to participate. Please contact George Anas, AHEPA Scholarship Chairman, to arrange for your participation. Our AHEPA chapter welcomes Michael Landon, who was initiated into our brotherhood during our February meeting. Brother Landon will be a great addition to our chapter! Our AGORA-GREEK MARKET remains ready to satisfy your special needs for items such as feta, Kalamata olives, dolmades, tarama, fresh fillo, Greek coffee, etc. Stop by the AHEPA FAMILY CENTER and stock up for the Holiday. KALI ANASTASI! DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE The Daughters continue to take orders for spanakopites. Do considers adding a delicious spanakopita to your Paschal Dinner by either calling Zoe Marcopoulos, or Joanna Vallas, H , C and ordering a spanakopita or two. They sell $25.00 a pan. Sisters, dues are still being collected for the current term. If you have not paid your dues of $38.00 annually, please do so as soon as possible. Remit this amount to Maria Vidakis, Corr. Secretary, who will issue you a receipt and then pass that amount on to the Treasurer. Our next regular meeting will be Thursday, April 26, starting with dinner at 6:30 pm., in the AHEPA HOUSE. The Daughters of Penelope wishes everyone a HAPPY EAST- ER. HELLENIC WOMAN S PENELOPE SOCIETY The Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society (HWPS) will meet on Thursday, April 12, 2018 at 6:00 PM at the Sacalis Hall. Kathy Vretos will serve as hostess. Our Spring Bake Sale was both very successful and very productive. The proceeds will go toward the Father Peter and Gregory Makris Merit Scholarship. Many thanks to our faithful members and friends who always come forward to help. Our 18 th Annual Dinner Theater was held on February 24 th, and our patrons expressed their delight at the sumptuous food and enjoyable entertainment. Our appreciation to the following members and friends who always answer the call to action and bring to fruition our wellestablished dinner theater. Following are the Dinner Theater Steering Committees: General Chairman: Marika Anthony; Food Preparation: John Dermanis, chairman, and Tessie Dakis, co-chairman; Decorations: Frances Polizos; Table Setting: Tessie Dakis: Dessert Preparation: Marika Anthony; Coordinating the IBM Student Servers: Zena Mageras; Hostess: Margaret Thompson; Publicity and Reservations: Marika Anthony; Souvenir Program: Margaret Thompson; Wine and Greek Hors d Oeuvres: Athena Savvas. The chairs of the above committees would like to thank the following ladies and gentlemen for their help with the FOOD PREPARATION, DECORATIONS AND TABLE SETTING: Kiki Canavos, Stephanie Kailos, Anna Mageras, Cleo Pileggi, Jimmy Koumbas, Chris Zambas, Barbara France, Aleksandra Garofalis, Violet Samaan, Helen Siokis, Sandra Stirbet, Paula Tofalli, Stavroula Valentin, Helen Vaughn. Sincere appreciation is also extended to the following members for graciously donating GREEK HORS D OEUVRES: Marika Anthony, Kiki Canavos, Tessie Dakis, Angela Gionis, Elaine Jansen, Anna Mageras, Zena Mageras, Joanie Michalos, Cleo Pileggi, Helen Siokis, Stavroula Valentin, Helen Vaughn, Maria Vidakis, and Katherine Yeapanis. DESSERT (LEMON TORTE): Marika Anthony and GREEK PAS- TRIES: Marika Anthony and Tessie Dakis Last, but not least, we gratefully acknowledge Dr. and Mrs. Bobby Garofalis for donating the wine; Mr. Mark Thompson for serving the wine; Mr. Chris Stephanitsis of Norfolk for donating the coffee and tea; Mr. Kevin Valliant, International Baccalaureate Coordinator, York County Public Schools; the International Baccalaureate students of York High School for volunteering to serve the meal; and Jeff s Flowers of Course for the beautiful centerpiece arrangement. HWPS WILL AWARD ITS 48 TH ANNUAL FATHER PETER AND GREGORY MAKRIS MERIT SCHOLARSHIP TO A GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WHO MEETS THE CRITERIA. THOSE QUALIFYING MAY APPLY BY CON- TACTING MARIA VIDAKIS AT HAPPY EASTER (KALLO PASCHA) TO ALL!

8 The Cross+Roads Page 8 Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church Adult Education Program presents: BAD BOYS OF THE BIBLE and THE ROAD TO REDEMPTION Wednesday, May 16, :00-8:00 pm Sacalis Hall 60 Traverse Road Newport News, VA Who were the bad boys? What did they do? How did they respond to their challenges? How do their stories impact us today? Nick Vrettos Parishioner and Sunday School teacher will be the speaker. Nick is also a docent at the Muscarelle Museum in Williamsburg. He will include famous religious artwork in his presentation. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact the Church office at (757) Father George and Hayden Hendricks (both Eagle Scouts) presented the Alpha-Omega Religious Award of the Boy Scouts to Soterios and Kypros Tofalli on March 11 (above left). Philoptochos Membership Tea was held following the Divine Liturgy on March 11 (above center). Hayden Hendricks discusses his upcoming Project Mexico mission trip with the parish on March 18 (above right). Greek School celebrates Greek Independence Day with program on March 25 (top right three photographs).

9 The Cross+Roads Page 9 VOLUNTEER FORM SERVICE QUALITY CLEANLINESS FELLOWSHIP Volunteers park behind the Hellenic Center. Arrive 30 minutes early and report to the information desk to pickup a nametag and an apron. SMILE and share our rich culture and religion, treat our customers with respect, be helpful, courteous. Have fun. Serve consistent portions to all customers, present food in a pleasing manner. Servers wear plastic gloves, wash hands before serving, maintain a good appearance. All cashiers MUST attend training scheduled for May 29th at 7 PM in the AHEPA Hall. Please return your completed form to the church office by May 15. Thank you for your willingness to serve. May 31 June 3 Thurs Sat, 11 AM 10 PM Sunday, 12 Noon 6 PM Name Volunteer Area Thursday Time Friday Time Saturday Time Sunday Time Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church thanks you for volunteering! Please retain top half for your records Please return bottom half to the Church Office at 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Telephone: (757) Volunteer for Areas (Place area codes to right in time slots for each family member) Last Name / Phone Number WED Prep THU FRI SAT SUN MON Clean Up VOLUNTEER AREAS First Name 10:00 3:00 11:00 4:30 4:30 10:00 11:00 4:30 4:30 10:00 11:00 4:30 4:30 10:00 12:00 3:00 3:00 6:00 10:00 3:00 A. Athenian Café B. Mediterranean Kouzina (Food Lines) C. Bar/Beverages D. Cashiers E. Hostess F. Kitchen G. Loukoumades H. Outdoor Grill I. Salads J. Outdoor Ovens K. Pa-stes L. Pastries M. Pit Lamb N. Raffle O. Greek Market P. Drive Through Q. Trays/Clean-up

10 The Cross+Roads Page 10 P C M F 1 9, I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: Present: Father George Chioros, Frank Peri, John Dermanis, Zena Mageras, Bobby Garofalis, Kent Paumier, Greg Bicouvaris, Elias Doulgerakis, Stavroula Gailey, Tom Grepiotis, Nick Matthews, Anastasia Theodorogiannis Guest: Konstantine Pietronuto The meeting convened at 19:06 with an opening prayer by Father George. The following items were discussed: II: Minutes: Nick Matthews made motion to approve the meeting minutes of the 24 Jan 18 meeting; seconded by John Dermanis, passed unanimously. III: Correspondence: Receipts of Thanks from Foodbank of Virginia, DTD 27 Dec 17 and 14 Feb 18, for our food donations of 68 pounds and 53 pounds respectively. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, DTD 30 Jan 18, Prepayment of 2018 payment for 2% deduction full year or 1% of 6 month from Fairshare payment. IV: Treasurer s Report: Zena Mageras presented the Balance Sheet and Budget/Actuals (attached) Dermanis reported the New Years Eve Dance income, $ , was deposited to the operating fund V: Visitor s Comments: Mr. Pietronuto came to see how the Parish Council worked together. VI: Committee Reports: Youth Ministry Father George Feb 18 OCF Retreat at William and Mary had 65 attendees. 18 Feb 18 Altar Boy Seminar will be held by Barry Hendricks. GOYA Lenten retreat March 2018 will be at Silver Beach, VA 25 March Greek School Program with GOYA Spaghetti Luncheon after the Liturgy. Ethan Detweiller and Alexis Capobianco will be going to the Odyssey program. Sponsored by HDF. It is a two-week cultural and religious tour based out of Thessaloníki Greece. From June 17 until July Jul 18 GOYA Camp Good Shepherd-Virginia. Mariam Canavos accepted the position for Youth Director on 18 Feb 18. House Committee Barbra France Hall has rentals every weekend through July Festival Committee Meeting 21 Feb 18 at 18:30 in the Hall. Maintenance Committee Doulgerakis obtaining estimates for salad shed repairs damaged by break-in and for the Halls front windows. Gaily and Theodorogiannis to help Doulgerakis complete the Library. Need to get library stuff out of the Youth Director office so it can be cleaned. Stewardship Ministry Nick Matthews: As of 19 Feb 18 we have 74 families pledged for a commitment of $90, Stewardship as of 31 Jan 18 $14, Stewardship (Other) as of 31 Jan 18 $ 2, Total $16, VII: Priest s Report Father George Adult Education Father went over the Lenten Program. Classes are Wednesday at Feb Great Lent Journey to Pascha, 28 Feb The Prayers of Lent and ST. Basil Liturgy 07 Mar Slander, 14 Mar Anger, 21 Mar Confession, 28 Mar Bridesgroom Service Father went over the Lenten Services schedule. Services and times are on Church website calendar. 53 pounds of food delivered to the Foodbank of VA in February. Over 250 pounds delivered last year. 22 Feb Father will deliver the Invocation at the 50TH Annual Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities Banquet. 04 Mar One City Marathon reminder to those living along the race route. 11 Mar Special collection for Hellenic College, Holy Cross. VIII: Unfinished Business: Safety deposit box contents appraisal. Action Mageras/ Dermanis Ministry / Committee Assignments: Personnel Vacant looking for a volunteer to chair the committee. Daniel Scholarship Dermanis reported the scholarship will be posted in the next bulletin. Dermanis reported $ raised at last weekends garage sale deposited in renovations account. VIII: New Business: Review General Assembly agenda - Mageras and Garofalis to present Treasures Report and 2018 Budget for approval. Security camera for hall / kitchen / doors by the office. Discussed the recent break in of our out-building, security of Church grounds and FR. Dalber s assault in Charlotte NC. Action - Doulgerakis, Theodorogiannis and Dermanis to research installation of security cameras and camera with power door lock for the Church office door. IX: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at 20:15. Next PC meeting will be 19 Mar at X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Kent M. Paumier A S (Continued from page 5) power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrhbearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. APRIL 29 EPISTLE READING Acts of the Apostles 9:32-42 GOSPEL READING John 5:1-15 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Holy Martyr Cercyra Our Holy Father John of Kaloktenos, Metropolitan of Thebes Basil, Bishop of Montenegro (Continued on page 11) P H I L O P T O H O S PROJECT HOPE The HOPE Project is a ministry of the National Philoptochos Society. It is committed to providing support through housing, education, occupation and healthcare to women who are survivors of human trafficking. Our local Chapter is now collecting the following items: $30 Dunkin Donut or Starbuck cards $30 fast food gift cards $15 gift cards to Walmart or Target shampoo- full size conditioner- full size body wash - full size body lotion - full size packaged razors hairbrushes Please bring you donations to church, during the month of April, and put them in the specially designated box in the Narthex.

11 The Cross+Roads (Continued from page 10) Nektarios the New Martyr of Optina Jason and Sosipater the Apostles of the 70 and their Companions WISDOM OF THE FATHERS In that case [Matt 9:2] there was remission of sins, (for He said, "Thy sins be forgiven thee,") but in this, warning and threats to strengthen the man for the future; "Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto you." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 37 on John 1, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Apolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal First Mode Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life. Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Third Mode Let the Heavens rejoice; let earthly things be glad; for the Lord hath wrought might with His arm, He hath trampled upon death by death. The first-born of the dead hath He become. From the belly of Hades hath He delivered us, and hath granted great mercy to the world. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrhbearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen. Page 11 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat April Sunday 10 Tuesday in Bright PALM SUNDAY Week Saint Mary of Egypt 5:00 pm 8:00 pm Greek School 8:45 am Orthros Classes 10:00 am Divine Liturgy Philoptochos Palm Sunday 13 Friday in Bright Week Luncheon Feast of the Theotokos of the Life 7:00 pm First Nymfios Service -Giving Font 9:00 am Orthros 2 Holy Monday 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Presanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm Second Nymfios Service 15 Saint Thomas Sunday 8:45 am Orthros 3 Holy Tuesday 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Presanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm Third Nymfios Service 16 Monday 6:30 pm Philoptochos 4 Holy Wednesday 6:30 pm Parish Council 10:00 am Presanctified Liturgy 7:00 pm Holy Unction 17 Tuesday 5:00 pm 8:00 pm Greek School 5 Holy Thursday Classes 7:00 am Vesperal Liturgy 7:00 pm Holy Passions, Twelve 18 Wednesday Gospels Procession of Holy Cross 7:15 pm Choir 6 Holy Friday 22 Sunday 9:00 am The Royal Hours Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing 3:00 pm Vespers of the Unnailing Women from the Holy Cross & Burial of 8:45 am Orthros our Lord 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 7:00 pm The Lamentation and Memorials for Demson & Beaudry Solemn Procession of the Epitafio Families 7 Holy Saturday 23 Monday 8:00 am Vesperal Liturgy Saint George 11:00 pm The Resurrection and 9:00 am Orthros Holy Pascha (Easter) 10:00 am Divine Liturgy 8 Great and Holy Pascha 25 Wednesday 11:00 am Vespers of Love 7:15 pm Choir (Agape) 26 Thursday 6:45 pm Ahepa/DOP 29 Sunday Sunday of the Paralytic 8:45 am Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy

12 Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA Return Address Requested Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 50 Newport News Virginia C W G G Sunday Services 8:45 a.m. Matins 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 11:30 a.m. Religious Education (Sep-May) 12:00 a.m. Christian Fellowship (Hellenic Center) Phone (757) Fax (757) Mission Statement The mission of Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, Virginia is to keep, practice, and proclaim the Orthodox Christian Faith. The work and ministry of our Parish will include proclaiming the Gospel, sanctifying the faithful through God's grace in worship, the Divine Liturgy and the Sacraments, and enhancing their spiritual life. We will fulfill the great commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by inviting others into the Church through Baptism and/or Chrismation, educating them in the Orthodox Faith through the establishment of programs, schools and philanthropic activities, and implementing Christian ministries.