NATIVITY OF CHRIST GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH. Philoptochos Holiday Bazaar Vasilopita Page 6

Transcription

1 NATIVITY OF CHRIST GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH The Word December 2018 And the Word became flesh & dwelt among us, full of grace & truth. ~John 1:14 Fr. John s Message Have You Prepared Your Manger? Page 1 Liturgies & Readings Upcoming services for December Page 2 Have You Prepared Your Manger? Have you ever wondered why Christ chose to be born in a cave a n d b e p l a c e d, a f t e r H i s incarnation, in a manger? Why wasn t He born in a house, even if it was poor and humble? God as man in the person of Christ came and lived on earth humbly and undetected. But what need did His particular mode of birth serve? For if He was born in a house, He would still be undetected and still humble. There was no place worse than a cave and a manger, for the newborn Messiah to see the light of day, or the shimmer of the stars. For any common man it would be a shame to be born in a stable, let alone God Himself. Yet this is exactly what the Lord wanted to emphasize from the beginning: that although He was God, He humbled Himself and took on a human hypostasis, and this divine humbling is much greater than simply a man being born inside a cold stable. He chose to be born in a cave and not a normal stable, to show that God does not dwell in temples made with hands, but in the hearts Parish Council Christmas Giving Stewardship Page 4 Philoptochos Holiday Bazaar Vasilopita Page 6 of those who recognize their unworthiness to receive Him and live humbly, without boasting and self-promotion. He chose to be placed in a manger of irrational animals, to show us that He came to dwell in this irrational world, a world that has dominated (and unfortunately still dominated) by sin and unbelief, which is foolishness in God s eyes. Amid the hubbub of the census, accommodation for the newborn Christ could not be found, except in the embrace of the straw manger of irrational animals. And in the maelstrom of sin and hypocrisy He was not accepted by His chosen people, except for the few humbled and crushed hearts of simple fishermen, tax collectors and prostitutes, who had the straw of humility and embraced Him as Master and Savior. He chose for all these things to take place in this way, so that with the visit from Magi it would not be obvious who the King was. These distant visitors bypassed the person of Herod and every earthly glory and dignity and, these wise men according to the world, came to offer their gifts to Him Who deserves all glory and Highlights Mommy & Me VIP s Page 8 Upcoming Opportunities Caroling 50th Anniversary Page 12 honor and worship, the obscure infant, the pre-eternal God. In the modern hubbub, in the dizziness of the preparation of various dishes and sweets, in the irrationality of worldly events, He will again remain outside of human activities. He will look again for some dark cave of self-knowledge, which has a manger of humility with a little straw of genuine love, and there He will rest in the hearts of certain people who will live once again this year in the great Mystery of the Divine Incarnation and they will secretly chant, along with the Angels, the Glory to God in the Highest For two thousand years He is doing exactly the same thing, every day and every hour: He is looking for a Manger! When He locates it, He will remain there, and He is saddened when He sees that He is absent. For several years, this is my anxiety, that is, if I have required humility for a manger in the cave of my heart, and if I have adorned it enough with the straw of true humility. Really, have you prepared your Manger? Written by Fr. Cherubim Veletza on Mystagogy The Word 2018 "1

2 December Services & Readings S E Q U O I A C L U B F E B R U A R Y S E R V I C E S & R E A D I N G S All Divine Services on Sundays and weekdays begin with Orthros at 8:30am followed by the Divine Liturgy. Please make every effort to attend these worship services on time. Day Date Feast Day Epistle Reading Gospel Reading Sun Dec 2 14th Sunday of Luke Ephesians 6:10-17 Luke 18:35-43 Tues Dec 4 St. Barabara Galatians 3:23-29, 4:1-5 Mark 5:24-34 Thur Dec 6 St. Nicholas Hebrews 13:17-21 Luke 6:17-23 s Sun Dec 9 10th Sunday of Luke Galatians 4:22-27 Luke 13:10-17 Wed Dec 12 St. Spyridon Ephesians 5:8-19 John 10:9-16 Sun Dec 16 11th Sunday of Luke Colossians 3:4-11 Luke 14:16-24 Mon Dec 17 St. Dionysios Hebrews 11:33-40, 12:1-2 Mark 9:42-50; 10:1 Thur Dec 20 St. Ignatius Hebrews 10:32-38 Mark 9:33-41 s Sun Dec 23 Sunday before Nativity Hebrews 11:9-10, Matthew 1:1-25 Mon Dec 24 Nativity Eve Hebrews 1:1-12 Luke 2:1-20 Tues Dec 25 Holy Nativity Galatians 4:4-7 Matthew 2:1-12 Thur Dec 27 St. Stephen Acts 6:8-15; 7:1-5, Matthew 21:33-42 s Sun Dec 30 Sunday after Nativity Galatians 1:11-19 Matthew 2:13-23 Sun Dec 30 Vespers Mon Dec 31 Apodosis of the Nativity James 2:14-26 Mark 10:46-52 Tues Jan 1 St. Basil Colossians 2:8-12 Luke 20-21, Icon of the Nativity The icon of the Nativity tells the story of Christ's birth from the Scriptures. It also shows that all creation is taking part in Christ's birth. The angels give thanks with their song; the heavens give the star; the Wise Men give their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The poor, humble shepherds give their praise and amazement; the earth gives the cave, and humanity gives the Virgin. This Holy Icon is an icon with many scenes. First, it stresses the importance of the Theotokos, the Mother of Jesus. She is placed in the center and is the largest figure in the icon. In this icon, she is kneeling with crossed arms, looking at the Christ child. The three stars, denoting her virginity before, during, and after the Nativity, are on her garments. The Christ Child, in the center of the icon, is in swaddling clothes and is lying in the manger. In the background is the dark cave where He was born. In the cave " 2 The Word 2018

3 Icon of the Nativity P A R I S H C O U N C I L are an ox and a donkey guarding the newborn Babe. Even though the Gospels say nothing of the cave, this information is from Holy Tradition. Neither do the Gospels speak of the ox and the donkey, but all icons of the Nativity include these animals. Including the animals in the icon fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 1:3, "The ox knows his master, and the donkey his master's crib; but Israel does not know me, and the people have not regarded me." The long ray of light from the star points directly to the cave. This ray comes from the star and travels to all parts of the world. It teaches that this bright star is an astronomical happening, and is a messenger from heaven announcing the birth of Jesus. On the left hand side of the icon is another scene. The Wise Men, who were led by the star, are riding horses to bring their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus. The Wise Men are of various ages. One is without a beard. In those days, young men did not wear beards. The other Wise Man has long hair and a long beard, which indicates that he is much older. These details teach that regardless of age and appearance, the Good News was given to each and everyone. Opposite the Wise Men is the scene with the humble shepherds. An angel proclaims the glad tidings. A young shepherd plays a reed instrument. This scene reveals that the music of the humans was added to the hymn of the angels. Across from the shepherd's scene is the heavenly choir of angels. They are giving glory to God. The angels serve two purposes in the Nativity of Christ. They give glory to God and announce the good news to all mankind. The background shows a very rugged terrain. This is not a true representation of the land in this area. Joseph could not find room in Bethlehem, so they went outside of Bethlehem to a cave. This rocky mountain formation only serves as a background for the event. In the lower part of the icon are two more scenes. In the right hand corner are the two women Joseph brought to take care of the Christ child. They are bathing Him just as any baby is bathed. The humanity of Jesus is clearly shown in this setting. Opposite the bathing of Jesus scene sits a sad and worried Joseph. He is not part of the central group, the Christ Child and the Theotokos. Joseph is not the natural father. Joseph is troubled and despondent. There is an old man talking to Joseph. The old man is Satan. Satan can appear in many forms. Here he is as an old man who is tempting Joseph and disturbing him. Satan is telling Joseph that virgin birth is impossible. He's telling Joseph that he's a fool if he believes this. This story comes to us from Holy Tradition. The sad Joseph shows us not only his personal predicament but the dilemma of all mankind the difficulty of accepting that which is "beyond words or reason." The tree, which is in the middle of the lower part of the icon, is a symbol of the Tree of Jesse. This tree refers to Isaiah 11:1-2, "But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom. The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him." King David was often mentioned as the son of Jesse and Jesus was from the House of David. The Holy Icon of the Nativity reminds one to praise and glorify the Birth of Christ. The celebration of Christmas each year serves to remind each and everyone of us that Christ came for you and me. The Word 2018 "3

4 Parish Council Update A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Kala Christouyenna John 3:16 For God so loved the World that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. By the Grace of God we will be celebrating the Nativity of our Lord together as a community this month. The Savior and Newborn King teaches us Love, Truth, Justice, and Peace through his Life and his Teachings. It is possible for us to continue to do what he was teaching us. Especially your giving at the end of the year with open hearts to honor Him. Deuteronomy 16:17 Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing the Lord your God, gave you. Christmas Giving In preparing for the Birth of Christ you can make a difference by donating generously to the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church. By reflecting on your joy and blessings, you can give from your heart. The Nativity of Christ Community is increasing its ministries to help those in need in our community. We have given to many local, national, and international non-profits to help those less fortunate. We continue to support those affected by unexpected tragedies whether it be hurricanes, flooding, tornados, or fire. We plan to give generously at the end of the year to more charities. We also are improving our campus in order for us to worship Jesus Christ together and enjoy Christian fellowship. We hope you are able to continue to see the improvements in painting, new floors, new roofs, new patios, new fencing. Upcoming projects include many improvements to the School Building, both inside and out. How Can You Donate? 1. Complete your 2018 Stewardship Pledge and/or increase that pledge. 2. Donate to one of the special projects outlined by our community. 3. Give an extra donation at the end of the year. 4. Participate in Nativity of Christ activities to help those in need. 5. Volunteer to help one of our many ministries. Ways You Can Donate: 1. Write a Check. 2. Donate online at the Nativity of Christ website (you can make a one-time donation or a recurring gift). 3. Contact the Church Office and donate by Credit Card. 4. Donate appreciated stock. (If you have stock that has appreciated you can donate the stock to Nativity. You will receive the total tax deduction and not have to pay capital gains on the increase in the value of the stock). Call the Church Office to receive the information and DTC # in order to make the transfer. 5. If you are 70 ½ you have to take a required minimum distribution (RMD) from your Retirement IRA. You can donate all or part of that RMD to Nativity of Christ and your gift satisfies the RMD requirement. You also can deduct the charitable donation and not pay tax on the income because it goes directly to the Church. For more information on 4 & 5 please contact your financial advisor. 4" The Word 2018

5 F R O M A R Parish Council Update O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Other Ways You Can Donate Your Time and Talent: 1. You and your family can come during the day on Saturday, December 8 to help the Sparkle Foundation wrap gifts for single mothers and their families in the local area. This will be in the Church Hall. 2. You and your family can come in the evening on Saturday, December 8 from 6-8 pm to make blankets for University of California Benioff Children s Hospital patients and homeless and abused moms and children in Marin. 3. You and your family can come Christmas Caroling for those who are in homes and unable to come to Church on Sunday, December 9 after Church. 4. You can come and support the Children of Nativity present the Christmas Play and Program on Sunday, December 16 after Church. 5. You can check the monthly WORD for opportunities to give of yourself to help others. These events are listed all year. Go to NativityofChrist.org. Parish Council Elections 2019 Stewardship Sunday: December 2, 2018 All things are possible to the one who believes in Christ. Parish Council elections will be held Sunday, December 2. There will be four vacancies in the Parish Council for We ve received three applications for the Parish Council: Anna Kozas Steve Rouman Renee Scott According to the UPR s of the Archdiocese, the 2019 Parish Council will then be responsible to fill the additional vacancy. A Lasting Gift for the Church A bequest or gift through your will is one of the simplest ways to make a lasting gift to the Church. Please consult your financial advisor for advice. A suggested wording: I hereby bequeath the sum of $ as a charitable bequest to the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church of Novato (Tax ID ) to be used for charitable purposes of the Church. The Word 2018 "5

6 50 th Anniversary of Philoptochos March 2019 marks the 50 th anniversary of our Philoptochos Chapter. We will be hosting a bridal fashion show and luncheon featuring vintage bridal gowns. As a celebration of this occasion, we will also be creating a keepsake program book that will include information and photos of our Philoptochos Chapter through the years. We will be contacting past Presidents and Board members to gather information and photos for this keepsake. Please look through your photos and gather any that we will be able to use. Holiday Bazaar Our 4th Annual Holiday Bazaar was held on Saturday, November 17th. This event has become more successful each year! Yiayia s Café, chaired by Kay Simon and Sophia Stathis, had attendees raving about the food!! This year Yiayia s Attic, a booth featuring gently used items was chaired by Kathy Marshall and had so many donated items that it had to be located in the Administration Building thank you to all who donated items. Thank you Irene Meehan for chairing the Holiday Bazaar and to all of the volunteers. We are looking forward to next year s Holiday Bazaar. Community Christmas Card Thank you to Connie Captanian and Karen Keller for chairing this activity and to all who participated in our annual community Christmas card. Each year the proceeds from this fundraiser are sent to the RCA (Retired Clergy Association). Philoptochos Vasilopita for St. Basil Academy Annual Harvest Luncheon Thank you to all who assisted with the food preparation, setup and serving for our annual Harvest Luncheon fundraiser that was held on November 11th. With this year s event being held on Veterans Day, we recognized seven veterans from our Parish at the luncheon: Bill Burrows, Pete Gikkas, George Kokalis, Tom Meehan, George Papanicolaou, Alex Slenkin and Charles Walters thank you for your service. The success of this event was a result of the hard work and donations of many. Both the meal and the fellowship were outstanding. There s love in every loaf! The New Year is coming and it is time to order your Vasilopita. All proceeds go directly to St. Basil Academy. The order form is included in this newsletter. The deadline for your order is December 27. Don t miss out on this wonderful tradition! Proceeds from the bread sale will be combined with the fellowship hour donations on January 13 when Father John will cut the Vasilopita for the parish. Fellowship Hours Please consider hosting a Fellowship Hour, it is one way to support the many charities of Philoptochos. Hosting a fellowship hour means that you provide snacks of your choice. Philoptochos members make the coffee and set up the food and coffee tables. Any parishioner, family or Ministry that would like to host a Fellowship Hour should contact Debbie Kokalis (415) ). Upcoming Philoptochos Dates Thursday, January 3: General Meeting Sunday, January 13: Annual Parish Vasilopita February: trip to Monastery of the Theotokos, The Life Giving Spring Saturday, March 2: Philoptochos 50 th Anniversary Celebration Event - Featuring vintage bridal gowns Sunday, April 21: Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon " 6 The Word 2018

7 Jacket Donations F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Annual Vasilopita Pick Up Day Sunday, December 30 Minimum Donation: $15.00 All proceeds benefit the children of St. Basil Academy ********************************************************** Name Contact Number Number of $15.00 Each I have enclosed my donation of $ Please make checks payable to: Philoptochos, note in memo St. Basil Pre-Order Deadline: December 27 The Word 2018 "7

8 Mommy & Me F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E November In November, a few of us were able to meet up for a Mama's Night Out at Farmshop in Larkspur. We enjoyed a lovely evening full of great conversation and yummy dessert! Young families are invited on December 2 to the Capetanos home for our Christmas party. The Word 2018 "8

9 November VIPs P A R I S H C O U N C I L On Thursday November 8, the VIP s had a wonderful time enjoying fellowship and delicious food. They also a great time learning some healthy stretches to increase balance and mobility. Our next meeting will be Thursday, December 13 at 11:30am. It will be our Christmas Party. Please bring a fast friendly covered dish and a gift worth approximately $10. Thursday Night Football On Thursday November 1, Parishioners gathered at Church to watch the 49ers play the Raiders. They had a great time watching football and eating delicious pizza. Thank you Mulberry Street for the delicious pizza. Sign up at so a percentage of all purchases made at escrip merchants will be donated to Nativity of Christ. Participating merchants contribute each time your families make a purchase. There are no receipts to collect or vouchers to buy. It is hassle free and every purchase counts! The Group ID for Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church is Did you know you can use AmazonSmile to support Nativity of Christ? Start your shopping at and Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases to the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church. The Word 2018 "9

10 Family Night F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Trunk or Treat and Pumpkin Carving On Tuesday, October 30, Parishioners gathered together for an evening of fellowship. The evening began with trunk or treating in the parking lot. The festivities then moved indoors for pumpkin carving, delicious pizza, and a lot of fun! The Word 2018 "10

11 Sunday School Corner F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Hello Sunday School Families! December has arrived and Christmas is coming! As we scurry around preparing for our vacations, family get togethers, and shopping for those gifts to put under the tree, let us also take time each day to prepare for the arrival of Jesus who comes to save us all, the true meaning of Christmas. Let us be thankful for Him and this amazing gift from God. "Glory to God in the Highest and on earth, peace and goodwill towards men. This is a direct quote from Scripture, the opening line of the Doxology, and the words of the angels to the shepherds who were watching their flocks who left to see baby Jesus. Our Scripture to read and discuss is the Christmas story, found in Luke 2:1-20. Also check out the Greek Orthodox Youth and Young Adult Ministry's "Be the Bee " video series #13 and #14. Our terrific teachers continue to work with your children to teach them and engage them in learning more about our Orthodox Christian faith this month. Our Sunday School classes are making Christmas cards for our parish elderly who are housebound or in care facilities. Each class has "adopted" a few of these elderly parishioners to make cards of cheer for them for Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Easter. The cards will be delivered to the elderly by members of our Philoptochos visitations committee. Have a blessed, beautiful and Merry Christmas! Christ is Born! Glorify Him! With love in Christ, Christina Thomatos Nativity Sunday School Director December Dates December 2 & 9: Class and Christmas play Rehearsal Saturday, Dec. 15: Christmas Play Dress Rehearsal and set up 9:30-11:30 followed by pizza lunch. Sunday, Dec. 16: Christmas Play Performance & Potluck luncheon. Families are requested to bring food items. Please look for the Sign Up Genius the first week of December. December 23 and 30: No Sunday School Looking Ahead Sunday, February 2: Souper Bowl Sunday Food Drive Kick-Off Sunday, March 24: Annunciation & Greek Independence Day Friday, April 26: Great Friday Retreat Sunday, June 2: Last Day of Sunday School and Sundae Sunday potluck luncheon. St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival 2019 Greek Festival We would like to get a jump on the planning and preparation process for the upcoming Marin Greek Festival, May 24, 25 & 26. Please contact the Church Office if you are interested in chairing a position. The 2019 theme is: Do not be afraid, but Keep Speaking and do not be silent Acts 18:9 The Word 2018 "11

12 Christmas Caroling F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Share the Joy of Christmas Join our annual Christmas Caroling Event Sunday, December 9 Following Divine Liturgy and fellowship hour Hosted by the Visitation Committee All ages and voices are welcome Share the glad tidings with those who are unable to come to church Tuesday Morning Bible Study Come and participate in Bible Study with Fr. John to continue studying St. Paul s Epistles. Tuesday, December 11 at 10am. Basketball Every third Thursday of the month, stewards of all ages and skill levels are invited for Open Gym to play basketball. This Month: December 20 at 7:30pm Journey to Fullness Join Fr. John and your fellow stewards to embark on A Journey to Fullness. A 16 session video to help introduce the richness and fulness of the Orthodox Christian Faith, Journey to Fullness is an opportunity to strengthen our knowledge and faith. Every other week on Wednesday evenings at 6pm, there will be a video presentation on a certain topic by Fr. Barnabas Powell. Question and discussions with Fr. John will follow. December 12th at 6pm: Episode 7 Truth and Tradition Join us on this Journey to Fullness! The Word 2018 "12

13 F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E Our community wishes all of God s blessings to Bishop Apostolos as he begins his new ministry as the Chief Secretary of the Synod in New York. On Saturday, November 10, clergy of the Bay Area gathered at the Metropolis House for a dinner to honor His Grace. Fr. John, Pres. Stephanie, Fr. Constantine, Pres. Kay, and Pres. Evelyn were able to attend. Out of appreciation for his leadership and time at our Parish, an epigonation was gifted to him on behalf of the community depicting an icon of the Nativity of our Lord. Eis Polla Eti Despota! Bishop Apostolos Nativity of Christ Great Vespers and Apodosis Dinner Sunday, December 30th Vespers at 6pm followed by Apodosis Dinner Christmas Pageant Sunday, December 16 after Liturgy Please join us in the large hall for food, fellowship, and a very special production by out Sunday School. The Word 2018 "13

14 Opportunities F R O M A R O U N D T H E A R C H D I O C E S E 50th Anniversary Saturday, January 19 th Divine Liturgy at 10am at the Elks Lodge in San Rafael Nativity of Christ will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary in Join us at the Elks to kick off the year s events by commemorating the first Divine Liturgy in Marin County on the exact date and location 50 years later! The Word 2018 "14

15 2018 Pledged Stewards Sof TNativity E W A of R Christ D S H (As I Pof November 28, 2018) We thank all stewards who have committed to giving the first Fruits of our labor. Presiding Priest Fr. John & Pres. Stephanie Kocolas Gavallos, Constantina Gavallos, Dennis & Heloisa Gebremichael, Tesfay & Selam Mardakis, Helen Margaronis, Anastassios & Maya Marsala, Joan Scott, Anthony & Renee Selmi, Cathy Selmi, Helen George, Pete & Ann Marshall, Philip & Kathy Sideris, Stassie Priest Emeritus Georgeson, George & Debbie Mavrantonis, Antoni Siefkas, Chris & Susan Fr. Constantine & Pres. Kay Georgeson, Zachary & Casey Medan, Dushan & Gigi Simon, Kay Efstathiu Geron, Marika Meehan, Evan Sklavos, James & Vasiliki Pres. Evelyn Adams Giannis, Demetrios & Rose Meehan, Nicole Slenkin, Alex & Nancy Aaron, Steven & Eva Adams, Bill & Lisa Anderson, Frances Angelonides, Peter & Arlene Angelopulos, Angelo & Mercy Antokhin, Andrei & Kathleen Antonis, Chris & Keri Arango, Pat Argyres, Andreas & Joanne Baird, Maria Balopoulos, Michael & Anna Batbie, Donald & Barbara Bechaka, Sonia Bertolina, Ronald & Elaine Bizani, Alexandra Blasingame, David & Katina Botatis, Demetri Bryan, Keith & Kerry Brzycki, Jeff & Tracy Langly Burrows, Bill & Floretta Camamis, Dina Captanian, Ted & Connie Castro, Jeff & Joanna Catel, Paraskevi Cavender, John & Tina Bournazes Chyrklund, Chris & Elaine Corcoran, Bruce & Fran Cordellos, Dennis & Anna Couch, George & Katherine Cratty, Marguerite Cummings, Nathan & Daphne Cunningham, Kenn & Elaine Daifotis, Kim & Cynthia Daifotis, Nicholas Darakis, Antonios & Jennifer Degaitis, Julia Delfino, Ken & Carrie Delis, Nicholas & Stephanie Della Cella Joseph, & Kathryn Kalabokes Demakas, George Demiris, George & Ray Ann Diamond, Jason & Vickie Economy, Carol Efstathiu, Paul & Kristen El-Far, Karim & Jasmine Eliopoulos, Sophia Fafoutis, Diane Ferber, John & Pamela Fotinos, Vivian Fourakis, Vasilis & Effie Franklin, Alexandra Friedman, Peter & Katina Pantazes Fuss, Patrick Gagas, Charles & Claire Gikkas, Peter & Vickie Hatos Giusti, Nonie Grey, Connie Haginicols, Charles & Amalia Hajopoulos, Kathy Hall, Bryan & Paula Plessas Hanis, Jim & Stella Haralambopoulos, Costas & Ria Haris, George & Georgia Haris, Nicholas & Nicole Haritakis, Sylvia Harris, Helen Harvey, Robert & Elaine Hawes, Nikolaos Hawes, Shyrle Hawes, Warren & Chryse Hontalas, Frank & Eve Hundley, Courtney & Marilyn Hunter, John & Rose Hunter, Stacey Iannios, Demetrios & Manulani Kakleas, Jon & Michelle Kalabokes, Chris & Vicki Kalabokes, Matthew Kamages, Alex & Sherry Kamages, Christ & Patricia Kambur, Jim & JoAnne Kanas, Nick & Carolynn Karas, Tom & Eleni Katelanis, Olympia Katselis, Anthony & Karin Kavantjas, Diane Keller, Ed & Karen Keratzides, Elaine Kocolas, Andoni & Alexia Kokalis, George & Debbie Kokalis, Nick & Lena Kosmas, Anthony & Anthonia Kosturos, John & Dolly Kozas, Anna Kozas, Nonda & Nicole Kozas, Tom & Angie Kuvelis, Dean & Denise Kuvelis, Xenia Lagios, Michael & Sheila Lendaris, Antonia Lendaris, George Livadas, Carl & Stacy Livanos, Nicholas & Patricia Lynn, Tom & Lucy Madias, Alex & Robyn Madias, Dino & Marti Madias, Evangelia Madias, Mike & Laurie Mancini, Anthony & Despina Manesis, Alexandria Mantalvanos, Alex & Maria Meehan, Thomas & Irene Mehas, Christine Mellas, John C. Messner, Mark & Cheryl Metallinos, Sophia Misthos, Katerina Morales, Marlon & Andrea Morphew, Forest & Ephimia Morris, Susan Muntean, Elizabeta Natsios, Isidore Niemcewicz, Roland & Bess O Connor, Wayne & Betty Zootis Orologas, Alexandra Orologas, Julie Orologas, Katerina Orr, Thomas & Beverly Panagotacos, James & Diane Pantazes, Christos & Jacqueline Pantazes, Katherine Papageorge, Christos & Despina Papanikolaou, George & Athanasia Papanikolaou, Marina Pappas, Maria Pappas, Arthur Passaris, Michael & Meredith Passaris, Peter & Maria Passaris, Theodore & Elaine Pauletti, Jeff & Alexandra Payea, Keith and Nicolette Perivolaris, Nick & Ellen Perivolaris, Sara Petrakis, Steve & Martha Pezzuto, Maria Picras, Beatrice Pineda, Andy & Matina Seremetis Pogni, Dean & Georgena Pool, Ronald & Carol Porter, Bryan & Melina Prokopakis, Johanna Prouty, Vicki Psaros, Nick & Angi Psaros, Stamatis & Helen Rishwain, Darron & Pamela Rizzuti, Joanna Rodriguez, Richard & Demetra Vangelatos Roesner, Russell & Margarita Roland, George & Doris Rouman, Steve & Liz Sandoval, Irene Sarantakis, George & Susan Jensen Saris, Tony & Betty Scafidas, Anastasia Scanagatta, Roman & Eleni Smernes, Kalliope Smith, Evdokia Smyrni, Anna Soeten, Alexandra Sotiras, Erene Sotiras, George Sotiras, Maria Stainbrook, Damon & Mari Starling, Eric & Irene Stathis, Pete & Dina Stathis, Sophia Stavrinides, Nicholas & Thalia Stenros, Stuart & Stella Stockton, John & Susan Stratigos, Spiro & Mary Kay Tacticos, George Taft, Kiki Tangalakis, Odysseus & Joanna Thomatos, Dennis & Christina Tocmakidis, Pinelopy Touras, Antonios & Antonia Trapalis, Arthur & Niovi Trapalis, Vicki Trevoledes, Patrice Triantafyllos, John & Laura Trimble, Paul Tsiplakos, George & Maria Turner, Arron and Nebiat Tzafopoulos, Demetrios & Cindy Tzafopoulos, Nicholas & Vasiliki Valakitsis, Yianni & Eugenia Dracopoulos Vallas, James & Judith Vellis, Dimitra Vlahakos, Nick & Georgia Vrattos, John & Francesca Walters, Charles & Amalia Walters, Scott & Karen Webber, Chris & Kendal Weeks, Andrew Weeks, Dan & Stacey White, Sonja Wilermuth, Ann Williams, Allen & Diane Rehn Woods, Doris Xenelis, Nicholas Yakumithis, Michael Yatrakis, Chris & Eirini Karatzaferi Yioulos, Dean & Ann Zaferiou, Paul & Phyllis Zagorites, Marion Zahariudakis, Dimitrios & Haroula The Word 2018 "15

16 S T E W A R D S H I P " 16 The Word 2018

17 Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church 1110 Highland Drive Novato, California Change Service Requested The Word December th ANNIVERSARY EVENTS January 19 - Divine Liturgy at Elks Lodge, San Rafael March 2 - Vintage Bridal Gown Fashion Show April 28 - Easter Picnic May 24, 25, and 26 - Greek Festival July - Divine Liturgy at St. Vincent s October 12/13 - Celebration Gala The Word 2018 "17