Saint Sophia Cathedral

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1 Herald Saint Sophia Cathedral Page OCTOBER 2010 I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E HERALD CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF GREEK ORTHODOXY IN LOS ANGELES Dean s Message 2 President s Message 3 Tribute to John Sakellaris 4 Stewardship News 5 Philoptohos News 6 Philoptohos VIP News 6 Youth News 7 Hellenic Academy 8 Community News 8 Sacraments 9 Ministries Page 10 Orthodox Calendar 11 Fest & Other News Due Date for November Herald Monday, October 18th Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral V. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas, Dean Rev. Fr. Bill Tragus, Associate 1324 S. Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, CA Tel Fax The Apostle Luke the Evangelist - October 18

2 Page 2 On August 8 th my very dear friend and father figure, John Sakellaris, a patriarch of sorts of our Saint Sophia Cathedral and President of the Saint Sophia Foundation, died after enduring a couple of months of failing health. A true gentleman and a servant of the church for 85 years, John was graced by God with 93 years of a full, vigorous and productive life. He became suddenly ill and was told that his condition was terminal perhaps he would have days or weeks left in this world. It was unexpected news for him. He was shocked and in a state of denial. He had been in and out of hospitals before and always recovered. His attentive and loving family suggested I talk to him about his impending death and the eternal life to come. It is sometimes easier to talk about such things with strangers. How do you do so, even as a priest, with a person you love so much and who is a surrogate father and mentor to you? Frankly I didn t know initially how to approach the matter in a sensitive inspirational and comforting way. Minutes before going to the hospital I entered the cathedral and fell to my knees at the Holy Altar, asking God to DEAN S MESSAGE enlighten me and give me the correct and sound words to share with my distraught and frightened friend. As I walked to my car I remembered a story I had heard some years before about a fork and a funeral. God had answered my prayer. I rushed to our parish hall kitchen, took a fork and carefully tucked it in my coat pocket. I knew what I would tell my friend, Barba Yianni, to assure him of God s love and mercy. At the hospital I heard his confession and sensed his fear. I prayed and anointed my friend with Holy Unction. Between tears shed by both of us I held his trembling hand and looked into his tired eyes and told him the following story There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things in order, she contacted her priest and asked him to come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him what she wanted done at the makaria memorial meal, what scriptures she would like read in the eulogy and in what outfit she wanted to be buried. The priest assured her that in working with her family everything would be in order. As he was preparing to leave, the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her. There s one more thing Father, she said excitedly. What s that? came the priest s reply. This is very important, the young woman continued. Keep Your Fork I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand. The priest stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say. That surprises you, doesn t it? the young woman asked. Well, to be honest, I m puzzled by the request, said the priest. The young woman explained. My grandmother once told me this story, and from that time on I have always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement. In all my years of attending socials and dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, keep your fork. It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming like velvety chocolate cake or deep dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance! So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder, What s with the fork? Then I want you to tell them: Keep your fork, the best is yet to come. The priest s eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming. At the funeral people were walking by the young woman s casket and they saw the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the priest heard the question, What s with the fork? And over and over he smiled. During his eulogy, the priest told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about Herald the fork and about what it symbolized to her. He told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either. John loved the story and felt comforted. He made the sign of the cross and kissed my hand. I reached into my coat pocket and gave him the fork I brought with me. Beloved friend, barba Yianni, I told him, keep this fork close to you and remember that even though the Lord has given you many wonderful years, the best is yet to come for you. John smiled at me and said now I m ready for dessert. It s always been my favorite part of the meal. I ll keep the fork close by. When I m down, I ll hold on to it. And so it is true for all of us. The best is yet to come. St. Paul quoting the prophet Isaiah said, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. I Cor. 2:9 So for all of us still in this world, next time you are having dinner and reach down for your fork, let it remind you, ever so gently, that the best is yet to come. When you write your will or update it, please remember Saint Sophia Cathedral. Your gift will live into eternity.

3 Herald Page 3 PRESIDENT S MESSAGE Christianity is nothing more than the imitation of Christ St. Basil the Great September 1st marked the beginning of our Ecclesiastical New Year. It also was the beginning of many challenges for all of our Ministries. Here at the Cathedral we are very proud and honored to have all of you, who year after year work so hard in over 25 different Ministries to keep the Cathedral tradition strong and vibrant. All the Ministries are very important. Two are my personal favorites: Sunday School and Camp Zoë. Train a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not turn away Proverbs 22:6 We have just finished a spectacular and very successful 12th Annual LA Greek Fest. Our sincere congratulations to our capable Chairpersons Jan and Ted Pastras, who once again demonstrated that nothing is impossible when it comes to Saint Sophia Cathedral s Greek Festival. Jan and Ted have elevated the Fest to new heights and to a new level of sophisticated entertainment and class, that most likely will be match by any other festivals. impossible to Several city officials were present, among them, the Honorable Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who claims that his name was Villaraigosopoulos. All of our visitors complimented us for our hospitality and the outstanding overall presentation of the LA Greek Fest, a significant cultural event of the city of the Angels. Kudos to Jan and Ted. The three-day event was exuberant and the majority of guests were amazed with everything we had to offer. The setting was spectacular, true Hollywood style,.the food was delicious with a great variety of selections, thanks to our winning team of chefs Niko Begakis and Joyce Kokkinidis. The quality and the presentation of food were beyond expectations as were the selections of beverages, including everything from lemonade to margaritas and the Metaxa mojitos. Congratulations to the volunteers EFXARISTO kai tou XRONOU!!! Sincere thank you to all our Booth Captains and their volunteer crews for working very hard and under strenuous conditions to make the Festival a great success. BRAVO!!! A special note to our Dance Groups and their Leaders for the best tasting Loukoumades. Thank you to all who participated with the baking of the pastries. OPA!!! YIASSOU!!! Several events and holidays make the month of October quite unique. On Oct.18 th, we celebrate St. Luke the Apostle. On the 24 th, we have the Hellenic Academy aka Greek School that will present the annual OXI (NO to fascism) program after Liturgy. On that day Hellenes all over the world are celebrating a very significant day of courage during WW II when the Greek Prime Minister Elefterios Venizelos told Mussolini: NO, you can not have a free passage to Greece. On Oct. 26 th, we celebrate the feast day of St. Demetrios the martyr. Currently we are accepting nominations and applications for the Parish Council. Five positions will be available. There are two positions available for the Board of Auditors. All applicants MUST be Stewards in good standing. If you are interested, me at President@ StSophia.org or call the office for an appointment. This is the best way to get involved and at the same time serve the Cathedral, your religion as Oikonomos and your community. Thank you for your support. In His Service Panos A. Angels-Angeletopoulos President Saint Sophia Cathedral Board of Directors

4 Page 4 In Loving Memory of John S. Sakellaris Herald John S. Sakellaris, affectionately known to his friends as Sak, was born in Los Angeles on May 25, 1917 to Katherine and Selas Sakellaris who were from Astros, Greece. John was married in 1948 by the late Patriarch Athenagoras to Lea Evangeline Gialketsis (of blessed memory 1980). John has two daughters, Diane Elizabeth Lapa (Donald J.) and Cynthia Ann Sakellaris (Cesar Fernandez), two grandsons Damon John (Melanie) and Ryan Christopher Lapa. John s greatest joy was his great-grandsons Braden Reece (4) and Dylan John (2). John graduated from Los Angeles Polytechnic High School and attended UCLA and the University of Missouri. He graduated from the American Institute of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Washington in Seattle. He served in the United States Army from John was elected Vice-President of Security Pacific National Bank in 1963 and assigned to the Corporate Executive Banking Division where he was responsible for correspondent banking on a national scale. He retired as Vice-President of Security Pacific National Bank, Los Angeles after 48 years of service. Old friends with John Trustees Angelo Pappas and Harry Vournas John served his Greek Orthodox Church and community for over 80 years. He was an Altar Boy, a member of the Choir, Treasurer of the first Parish Council at the Church of the Annunciation on San Julian Street, a member and first Treasurer of the Saint Sophia Cathedral Parish Council. In 1952, John was appointed by Mr. Charles P. Skouras as Comptroller of the newly organized Saint Sophia Foundation. He was elected a member of the Board of Trustees in 1960 and Treasurer in In 1987, he was elected President of the Board of Trustees of the Saint Sophia Foundation and continued to serve in that capacity until his death. This past May, John received the Blessing Hand Award from the Saint Sophia Foundation. John s faith, dedication, determination and leadership have brought us closer to realizing the dream of building our exciting and monumental Community Center. This is an awesome legacy entrusted to our care. Under John s administration, the Trustees have been responsible for the building of the Saint Sophia residence, the renovation of the Community Center, the expansion of parking facilities, the construction of the Walk of the Blessing Hand and Wall of Honor, and the restoration, beautification and improvement of the Cathedral itself and its property. He played a significant leadership role in the Faith, Vision and Community Campaign for Building Expansion. In addition to being a Life Member and Steward of Saint Sophia Cathedral, John was the donor of the Blessed Hand on the Walk of the Blessing Hand and two of the mosaic Icons in the Dome of Saint Sophia Cathedral. In 1992, John was recognized for his dedication and earned the designation of Archon Hartophylax of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople by Archbishop Iakovos of North and South America. John loved to spend time with his family and friends. He especially loved watching the Dodgers, USC Football and the game of golf. He was a member of Wilshire Country Club and when time and health permitted, he played golf with the Sportsmen Group (founded in 1960) and the Greek Army. However, his greatest passion in life was the time he spent each day in his Cathedral office working on the vision for the future of his beloved Saint Sophia. John and Archbishop Demetrios Father John Bakas and Angelo Pappas with John

5 Herald Page 5 The Joy of Belonging through Christian Stewardship STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION: JOHN SAKELLARIS From an altar boy to President of the Board of Trustees of the Saint Sophia Foundation, our beloved John Sakelaris exemplified the meaning of Stewardship in Action for over 80 years. His commitment to our Church and community was inspiring and his vision for the future a motivating force for all of us. When I took over the Stewardship Ministry, John handed me a clipping from the Orthodox Observer, and with concern, he said: Our church needs more income to survive. Read this. It is the best article on stewardship. And it was! I saved it, and every time I read it, I could hear John s voice reading the words below. THE IMPORTANCE OF STEWARDSHIP By Fr. John Artemas, Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Glenville, ILL Disclaimer No. 1 If you are experiencing financial hardship, or are on a fixed retirement income, please disregard this commentary. Disclaimer No. 2 If you are tithing 2% to 10% of your income to your church, please disregard this commentary with the thanks and gratitude you deserve. In 1979 the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Dallas Cowboys to win their third Super Bowl, and Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Baltimore Orioles in a seven game World Series classic Sister Sledge s We Are Family as their theme song. Ronald Reagan had not been inaugurated yet, and disco music was nearing its end. Most Greek Orthodox parishes in America were still on a dues system with $350 a year being typical. During the last 30 years, a cup of coffee has gone from 35 cents to over a dollar, a $13,000 family sedan now costs $28,000, an $80,000 home now costs $300,000, college tuition and health insurance expenses have quadrupled, and $350 is now worth $1,180. If your parish is not averaging $1,200 per parishioner, stewardship has failed. After thousands of meetings, mailings, seminars, workshops, campaigns, gimmicks, sermons and platitudes, we haven t even kept up with inflation. Instead of stepping up or coming through with no minimum requirements, most parishioners have marginalized the church. Donations are flat, attendance is down, and the number of Orthodox Christians in America has declined. In October of 2000, during the presidential debates, candidate Al Gore quoted scripture by saying: Where your heart is, there is your treasure also. He got it backward. Matthew 6:21 reads: where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Our hearts are not in the church because they are in our cars, homes, I- phones, laptops, video games, jewelry, golf clubs, manicures, wardrobes, shoes, Starbucks, bottled water and 72 inch television screens. This is what we are pouring our money into, so that is where our hearts are. Since our treasures are not in the church, we then have the nerve to tell the church how to raise funds and claim that we don t have to go to church to be spiritual. There are things more laughable than the theologically ignorant instructing the church on its mission, and excusing themselves from worship. While it is correct to assert that one does not have to go to church to be a good person, the world needs more than just good people; the world needs holy people. One cannot become holy on one s own. To be spiritual without a community of faith is to worship in the cathedral of the ego. That is no way to transfigure oneself, let alone change the world. Worshiping and tithing are not optional, they are essential in saving us from ourselves; freeing us from self-righteousness, judgment and materialism. Let s face it we have taken advantage of the notion of free-will offering and have diminished the church. We need to get back to requirements. Effective immediately, go to church every Sunday, and don t be late. When you go, save your dollar bills for the junk food machines, and place a more respectable denomination in the tray. Tithe 2% to 10%, and don t be so concerned about the things you can t take with you when you graduate this life. Invest in your faith, and give your heart a chance to overflow with all that is good. Irene Frankos PLEDGED STEWARDS FOR AUGUST 16th THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15th $10,000 10,999 $1,000 To $1,999 $500 To $999 $500 To $999 (continued) Marcus, Mr. & Mrs. George Begakis, Mr. & Mrs. Niko Daher, Ms. Athina Pavlidou Pavlidou, Mrs. Alexandra Daher Kirages, Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Doering, Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Rinks, Mr. & Mrs. Rodney $5,000 To $5,999 Manders, Ms. Constance Drakos, Mrs. Eugenia Soulimiotis, Mrs. Sophia Perdis, Mr. & Mrs. Napoleon Anonymous Dumas, Mr. & Mrs. Van Spanos, Mr. George Gatsoulis, Mr. & Mrs. Philip Anonymous $2,000 To $2,999 Jeen, Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Anonymous Helm, Mr. & Mrs. Michael Kargas, Dr. Steve A. Kapantzos, Mr. & Mrs. Cosmas Matandos, Mr. & Mrs. Dimitrios

6 Page 6 Dear Philoptohos Ladies, What a fantastic Greek Festival 2010 we had!! First and foremost we want to express our grateful thanks to our own and wonderful Father John for his leadership, a very busy person, yet always thinking and answering a million questions. Congratulations to the dozens of volunteers that worked for days and weeks before, and at the three day event. You all are the volunteers that made the event so successful. The chairmen Ted and Jan Pastras, Stephanie and Dan Lubian, the always busy and organized Ann Pappas, Panos & Bertha Angels, and the many Philoptohos women that made, baked and sold the delectable pastries Evridiki Demetriadi, Toula Kalatzis, Lica Moskos, Georgia Kades, Dorally Spiropoulos, Vivi Demopoulos, Mary Kezios, Maria Psaras, Katerina Constantine, Tina Callas, Joanna Callas, Kristin Thomas, Vasilliki Ellis, Helen Ellis, Emily Valladou, Helene Evangelatos, Athena Lolonis, Timi Freshman, Tina Kolovos. Having the beautifully decorated Philoptohos Pastry, Loukoumathes and Coffee booths inside the hall was a marvellous idea. The people had a cool place to have their dinner, visit with friends and enjoy delicious desserts. Congratulations and endless thanks to Eleni Constantine, Olga Jordan and Jeanine Dalis Klima for their labors of love and always with a smile. Kudos to Mary Kezios, Zoi Fovos, Judy PHILOPTOHOS NEWS Herald Christopoulos, Marianna Politis, Virginia Noyes, Maria Toczek, Dianne Pruett, Dorothea Ales, Connie Cooper, Penny Karagianis, Toni Chassman, Elene Dascalu, Sotiria Hronis, Vilma Chahin, Shelmadine Wellington, Joanna Papachristos, Lili Zinelis, Mersy Loukaris, Olga Elias, Alexa Haidos, Simona Rebiga, Sotiria Hronis, Tricia Kremer, Sophie Mastor, Jayne Poullus, Vera Brotsis, Joanna Pantazes, Afrodite Chimarios, Bess Pappas, Electra Koutsoukos, Pauline Evangelatos, Frances Bissias, Helene Ballas, Scarlett and Steve Billis and yours truly Dina. My apologies if I might have misspelled or omitted any other volunteer names. Remember that 2011 is an election year, and members who are interested in serving on the board should plan to attend at least four general assembly meetings in order to be eligible. Please contact Lola Gialketsis for more information: by telephone (323) or lola5732@sbcglobal.net. Our next general assembly meeting is on Sunday, October 17 in Saint Basil s room immediately after Divine Liturgy. Come and bring a friend. As always the Philoptohos women are ready to lend a helping hand with great enthusiasm and love. With Love in His Service, Dina Skouras Oldknow PHILOPTOHOS VIP NEWS October 21 Harrah s/rincon Casino in Temecula Please join us on October 21. We will take a bus trip to Harrah s/rincon Casino for fun and lunch. For reservations please call Alex Markos at or Mersy Loukaris at (323) Cost of transportation is $10, Lunch is on your own. Please send your check to Mersy Loukaris at 3841 Edenhurst Ave., Los Angeles, California Paid reservations only, and must be made by October 10. Upon arrival you will get a $10 credit. You have to be at the church at 8:15A.M. Estimated return time is between 6 and 6:30P.M., depending on traffic. I would like to thank you all in advance for responding on time to make this outing a fun trip. Vivi Demopoulos PHILANTHROPIA NEWS Friday, September 17th, 7:00 p.m. The 10th Annual Strike Out Aids at Dodger Stadium proceeds of the discounted price offer for supporters went to The Wall-Las Memorias Project. Sunday, October 31st, after Divine Liturgy, Philanthropia Ministry Meeting, St. John s room. Month of November, collecting donations for the City of Hope, Pediatric Memorial Service, for children that have died of cancer. Also, we are collecting donations for the Thanksgiving Baskets for distribution to the needy. Wednesday, December 1st, World Aids Day observance details forthcoming. C a n n e d G o o d s a n d U s e d C l o t h i n g Thank you for your past donations of canned goods and good used clothing. We will take a break from August 28th to September 28th at which time we will resume accepting donations. Thank You and God Bless, Father Peter

7 Herald Page 7 Contacts for Youth Programs ALTAR BOYS Fr. Bill Tragus frbill@stsophia.org BASKETBALL Paul Cooper mrpaul599@sbcglobal.net CAMP AXIOS September Sucher sbds@cox.net CAMP ZOE Presvytera Mia Tragus presmia@yahoo.com GOYA Fr. Bill Tragus frbill@stsophia.org JR. GOYA Mary Sarantes marysarantes@gmail.com GREEK DANCE Barbara Kappos Bkappos@aol.com HELLENIC ACADEMY Helen Dumas, Director RITE OF COMMITMENT Helen Lambros HLambros@aol.com SAINT SOPHIA CAMP Melanie O Regan mell0n@aol.com saintsophiacamp.org SUNDAY SCHOOL Eleni Yokas eyokas@college.usc.edu ALTAR BOY & READER TRAINING Our Altar Boy & Reader Training is Saturday, October 2nd. We will be training Readers and those young people who want to work in the Narthex. The Altar is for young men only, but Readers & Narthex positions are for boys and girls. You must be in 2nd grade or older. After the training session the group will go bowling & have lunch at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley next to Staple Center. Anyone can come to lunch and bowling with us. We will meet at Church at 9:45 a.m. for the sessions and at noon we will leave for Lucky Strike Bowling Alley. We also need some parents to accompany the group to the bowling alley. Lucky Strike Lanes - (213) W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles. For lunch and bowling please RSVP to Fr. Bill frbill@stosphia.org. YOUTH NEWS Calendar of events Saturday 2 Sunday 3 Sunday 10 Sunday 17 Sunday 24 Sunday 31 Sunday 6 Fri.12-Sun 14 Saturday 13 Sunday 14 Sunday 21 Sunday 28 October Altar Boy /Reader Training & Bowling 9:45 a.m. Fall Service Project Begins (Sunday School) Sunday School Class Photo Day Sunday School OXI Day Celebration following Sunday School Sunday School November Sunday School Fall Service Project Due GOYA Trip to St. Nicholas Ranch IOCC Walk-a-Thon Sunday School Sunday school Camp Zoe Dinner & Movie Fundraiser 5:30 p.m. December Saturday 4 Bible Bowl Grades Mary s Orthodox Church, Anaheim 10:00-2:30 Sunday 5 Sunday School Sunday 5 Christmas Concert 6:30 p.m. in the Cathedral Saturday 11 Christmas Pageant Rehearsal & Breakfast 9 a.m. Sunday 12 Sunday School Sunday 19 Christmas Pageant Saturday 25 Christmas Divine Liturgy SUNDAY SCHOOL - FALL 2010 Sunday School classes began last month. If your child is not yet registered, you may log into our website and register today online: saintsophia.org - click on Youth and then Sunday School. GREEK FOLK DANCE If you would like to join one of our Greek Folk Dance groups please go to the Cathedral website: greek_dance/ SAINT SOPHIA BOOKSTORE The book store has received some great Orthodox books for teenagers, children and young adults. There are new Bibles, books on Lent and interesting books about the saints. Our Fellowship Group working at the L.A. Greek Fest. Please join our group the 1st Sunday of every month for fellowship, dinner (6:30pm) and discussion (7:30 pm) Please come by and check it out this month before we close for construction!

8 Page 8 SAINT SOPHIA HELLENIC ACADEMY Herald HELLENIC ACADEMY ADMINISTRATORS MRS. HELEN DUMAS, DIRECTOR speakgreeknow@aol.com Phone: MRS. ELENI TSAGGOURI, ASST DIRECTOR staseleni@earthlink.net Welcome to our Saint Sophia Hellenic Academy. Classes for the coming school year will begin on Saturday, September 18. The Academy s mission is to teach children the Greek language, culture, heritage, customs, traditions and religion in the context of the Greek Orthodox faith. In short, we teach the Greek language within a cultural, religious and social framework. CURRICULUM The Academy s curriculum is designed for 10 academic classes preferably at 8 to10 students per class, and children are grouped according to age and level of Greek. We welcome children from the age of 3 and up. PRE-SCHOOL: students learn through music, arts and crafts, poems, prayers and games. KINDERGARTEN and FIRST GRADE: students are introduced to Greek alphabet, simple reading, and grammar. HIGHER GRADES: as students progress, they learn to read and write in Greek, and also learn about Greek history, mythology, literature, religion, geography, culture and traditions. The Academy offers a Greek class for older students, who have not learned Greek in their early childhood. The most important addition to our curriculum last year was a course, preparing students of advanced classes for the yearly examinations leading to the Certificate of Attainment in Greek, issued by the Greek Ministry of National Education and Religion. Candidates are prepared on any of four levels of linguistic proficiency. SCHOOL HOURS Pre-school and kindergarten: Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 am Higher classes: Saturdays, 9:00-11:30 am ANNUAL TUITION SAINT SOPHIA STEWARDS (minimum stewardship is $500.00) $ per student. STEWARDS OF OTHER ORTHODOX CHURCHES $ per student. Parishioner in Good Standing letter must be submitted to the Cathedral office by September 7. NON-STEWARDS $1, per student. REGISTRATION Registration must be made online at stsophia.org/youth/ Hellenic Academy. TUITION PAYMENT OPTIONS Due by September 7 Online at stsophia.org/stewardship/donate other/ Hellenic Academy/tuition fees Credit card: contact the Cathedral office at office@stsophia.org or at Check: made to Saint Sophia Hellenic Academy ADULT SCHOOL Adult Greek language classes are also offered on Saturdays, 11:45 am 1:15 pm. For further information, please contact one of the Academy s administrators. QUESTIONS Regarding education, please contact one of the Academy s Administrators. Regarding registration or tuition payments, please contact the Cathedral office at office@stsophia.org or at Saint Gerasimos of Kefallonia Banquet The annual Saint Gerasimos of Kefallonia Benefit will be held on Saturday, October 16 th at Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Redondo Beach. Adult $35 per person, 16 years and under $10 per person. Dinner, appetizers and dessert will be served. Proceeds will support Saint Gerasimos Church in Kefallonia, Greece. Paraklisis at 6:30pm, dinner and dancing at 7:30pm. Please contact Tony Kostas (310) COMMUNITY NEWS 17th Annual St. Sophia Camp Tennis Mixer! Join us for mixed doubles tennis to support St. Sophia Camp on Sunday, October 17th at The Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades. Beginners to advanced, all levels are welcome. To register, complete the form in the weekly bulletin. For questions or more information, contact Mary-Kay via Demetrioumary-kay@mindspring.com or call

9 Herald Page 9 WEDDINGS OCTOBER 2 Maria Panatazis & Christos Defterios OCTOBER 10 Nicolette Dolas & Robert Silva OCTOBER 10 Alina Basil & Angelo Tsarouchas OCTOBER 16 Erica Callas & James Schwaln OCTOBER 22 Anna Solonokhina & James Holcomb OCTOBER 29 Amber Nyugen & Mauro Metini BAPTISMS OCTOBER 9 Luca Yatnegparian OCTOBER 16 Kristos Karakostas Papanicolau OCTOBER 17 Isabella (Sophia) Yoo OCTOBER 19 Marcos Jeen Matandos OCTOBER MEMORIALS SEPTEMBER 5 John Sakellaris (40 days) OCTOBER 3 Leonidas Karnakis Panayiotis Korbakis Tobenna Okoroma George Panayi Christos Vassilidis OCTOBER 10 Michael P. Ballas Bessie Bornino John Chilles Vissilios Diakomihalis Jerry Dres George Fovos John Fovos Maria Fovos Vassilios Fovos Evdoxia Koumbanios OCTOBER SACRAMENTS 10/03 Bertha Angels 10/10 Loula Moschonas 10/17 Stephanie Caiopoulos Lubian 10/24 Steven C. Hanna 10/31 Toula Kalatzis Cleo Andrews John Anton Alexis Bakas Ann Caiopoulos Michael Carvaines William Dres Shamus Fenady Danica Gallanis Christina Georgiou John Geranios Steve Halekakis John Karavas October Readers October Ushers 10/03 Electra Koutsoukos, Gene Chronopoulos 10/10 Alexandra Georgiou, Christina Georgiou, Rosemary Georgiou 10/17 Niki Korbakis, Maria Pelargos 10/24 Alexandra Guirguis, Dinah Wellington, Shelmadine Wellington 10/31 Electra Koutsoukos, Gene Chronopoulos BIRTHDAYS John Kissonas Doris Kollias Harrison Kollias Maria Elena Konugres Georgia Korbakis Anna Kyriakou Christianna Kyriakou Pauline Ladicos Alex Macris Christopher Noyes Sebastian Opffer George Preonas Katrina Pyle Heidi Sandstrom Estelle Skouras Amelia Skoutaris Harry Stamatis Peter Triantafylos ANNIVERSARIES Mr. & Mrs. Costas Azariadis Mr. & Mrs. Stephen E. Billis Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Kalban Constantine Trigonis Helen Varentges Georgia Vasila Harry Vournas Ernie Zaferis Mr. & Mrs. Sam Konugres Mr. & Mrs. Michael Loisides Mr. & Mrs. John S. Peterson Mr. & Mrs. Bill Sandstrom Dr. & Mrs. Konstantinos Tripodis Mr. & Mrs. George Varentges Mr. & Mrs. Sam Zagorianos Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Zoolakis Kosta Koumbanios Mihali Koumbanios OCTOBER 17 Michael Faklis Nicholas Faklis Georgios Kominos Please note If your birthday or anniversary is not listed in the monthly Herald newsletter and you would like it to be listed, please Stephanie at secretary@stsophia.org William Minford

10 Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral Very Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas, Dean Rev. Fr. Bill Tragus, Assistant Jim Kollias, Choir Director Menelaos Trigonis, Protopsaltis Christopher Yokas, Organist James Karatsikis, Sexton PARISH COUNCIL Executive Officers Panos A. Angels, President Tom Martin, 1st Vice President Loula B. Moschonas, 2nd V. P./Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Caiopoulos Lubian, Recording Secretary Karen Sarames, Corresponding Secretary Members Luke Richard Curren Dina Demetrius Jeanine Hanna Toula Kalatzis Sebastian Opffer Peter Pallas Ted Pastras Zafiris (Zaf) Tsimahides Associates Angela Karavedas, Sunday School Liaison Irene Frankos, 2010 Stewardship Chair Auditing Committee Tom Moore Anthony Demetriou BOARD OF TRUSTEES Executive Officers Angelo L. Pappas, President. Andrew Evangelatos, Vice President Dr.. James A. Demetriou, Vice President & C.F.O. Constantine Boukidis, Secretary Nicholas Bissias Tina Callas, Treasurer Members V. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas Panos A. Angels Timi Loomos Freshman Gig Kyriacou Alek Haidos William H. Oldknow John T. Pappas George Preonas Harry C. Vournas, Trustee Emeritus Peter C. Latsis, Honorary Presidential Appointments Anthony A. Demetriou, Assistant to the President John G. Marakas III, Sr. V. P. of Wells Fargo, Advisor to the Board OFFICE STAFF Christina Ajalat, Office Manager/Accounting Ann Pappas, Facilities Director CUSTODIAL STAFF Leonard Hart Jesus Gambino Miguel Rosales PHILOPTOHOS SOCIETY Executive Officers Dina Skouras Oldknow, President Marianna Politis, 1st Vice President Dr. Maria T. Toczek, 2nd Vice President Dorothea Ales, Recording Secretary Virginia Noyes, Corresponding Secretary Lola Gialketsis, Asst. Corresponding Secretary Scarlett Billis, Treasurer Mary Gallanis, Assistant Treasurer Connie Cooper, Advisor Honorary Life Members Jennie Doumak Christine Peratis Members Helene Ballas Frances Bissias Judith Christopoulos Pauline Evangelatos Olga Jordan A. Electra Koutsoukos Tricia Kremer Constance Manders Diane Pruett Sonia Stathes ALTAR BOYS Rev. Fr. Bill Tragus/Chris Halekakis BASKETBALL Chris Markos & Paul Cooper BIBLE STUDY Rev. Father John Bakas Rev. Father Bill Tragus BOOK STORE William Striglos CAMP AXIOS Andrea Boerger CAMP ZOE Rev. Father Bill Tragus CHURCH SCHOOL Eleni Yokas CHOIR Jim Kollias COFFEE HOUR Georgia Vasila DANCE GROUPS Barbara Kappos DOCENTS Mrs. Faye Demetriou EASTER PICNIC John T. Pappas Ted Pappas Dean Treantafelles Tony Dres OTHER MINISTRIES Sophie Mastor Rita Stephanou G.O.Y.A. Rev. Father Bill Tragus HELLENIC ACADEMY Helen Dumas, Director Eleni Tsaggouri, Assisant Director Joanna Papachristou, Parent Representative HOSPITALITY Niki Korbakis Maria Pelargos L.A. GREEK FEST Jan & Ted Pastras MR. & MRS. CLUB Christine & Dean Peratsakis PARENTING Nick Stefanidis Barbara Kappos PHILANTHROPIA Rev. Father Peter Lambert PHILOPTOHOS V.I.P. Vivi Demopoulos, President SAINT SOPHIA CAMP Melanie O Regan Kathleen Kyriacou Vicki Kades YOUTH Rev. Father Bill Tragus EDITOR IN CHIEF Timi Loomos Freshman timilf@earthlink.net

11 Herald Page 11 OCTOBER 2010 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 Hellenic Academy 9:30 am 8 am Orthros 9:15 am Studies in Faith 9:45 am Memorials 10 am Divine Liturgy Hellenic Academy 9:30 am 10 8 am Orthros 9:15 am Studies in Faith 9:45 am Memorials 10 am Divine Liturgy Hellenic Academy 9:30 am 17 8:00 am Orhros 9:15 am Studies in Faith 9:45 am Memorials 10:00 am Divine Liturgy -Philoptohos General Assembly Meeting -St. Sophia Tennis Mixer Saint Luke the Evangelist 8:30 am Orthros 18 9:30 am Divine Liturgy Hellenic Academy 9:30 am 24 8:00 am Orthros 9:15 am Studies in Faith 9:45 am Memorials 10:00 am Divine Liturgy Saint Demetrios 8:30 am Orthros 9:30 am Divine Liturgy Hellenic Academy 9:30 am OXI Day 31 Strict Fast Fish Allowed Wine and Oil Allowed Dairy, Eggs, and Fish Allowed Fast Free

12 On behalf of the FEST Committee, we d like to thank everyone who participated in making the 12 th annual L A GREEK FEST a spectacular event that will be remembered for a long time. With the addition of our new band, entertainment in the hall, and special guest singers and celebrities, it was a happening of pure magic & phenomenally successful in every way! This was a real team effort by the Saint Sophia parish community for which we can all be extremely proud. The FEST has evolved to such presentation heights that people from all over Los Angeles now recognize this event as one of the premier events of the Southland. Thanks to the great response we had to our marketing & advertising campaign, thousands of people visited the FEST and experienced a truly extraordinary cultural event! Due to the early submission dates required for the printing of the HERALD, we re unable to provide final FEST numbers at this time. We hope to have all the final breakdowns for you in the next few weeks and will present the final net results in November s HERALD (and during our full report to the General Assembly). Until then, we want to offer our deepest appreciation & thanx to our fantastic FEST Committee, Booth Captains, hard-working Volunteers & all those who committed product donations and underwriting. Your support & confidence are beyond compare and have helped to make the L A GREEK FEST the very best in Southern California!! Our deepest heartfelt gratitude to TOM HANKS & RITA WILSON for their commitment and generous participation to the FEST program. We personally thank them for their loyalty and friendship. Lastly, a special acknowledgement and appreciation must be offered again to Mike Andrews and Ramy Baramily for their combined graphics & printing genius with all the marketing and promo materials. The special dance floor logo mat was truly distinctive in design and absolutely stunning! Thanks to all for the magnificent efforts. It couldn t have been possible without YOU. Bravo, dear friends, bravo!! TED & JAN PASTRAS FEST Directors

13 Herald Page 13 HEARTFELT APPRECIATION TO OUR 2010 LOYAL FAMILY OF SUPPORTERS! NEEDS LIST DONORS Anonymous Helene Ballas Dr. & Mrs. Colin Cooper Dr. & Mrs. Jim Demetriou Helen & Tony Demetriou Bill & Ann Dres George & Zoe Kaplanis Andy & Pauline Evangelatos Mr. & Mrs. Tony Giapappas Mike & Sophia Helm Greg Mallis & Family Peter Hronis, Nick Hronis & Family Dr. & Mrs. Michael Patzakis Rena Poulos & Family John & Mary Lynn Rallis n Memory of Joan Shainin Electra Koutsoukos Ody Demetriadi Jellywear Tom & Ann Moore Dean Tripodes Dino s Burgers-Jimmy Pantazis Family Pete & Pat Fettis Zagorianos Family George & Cleo Andrews Ramy Baramily Nick Stefanidis Rena Poulos Karen Scherrer Astroburger Black Equities C & K Imports Chris & Georgia Caras Chris & Joan Caras Conrad s Restaurant Cutler Insurance Group Fotis & Sons Marathon European Tommy Otis Texis Restaurant Theodore Batsakis Bishop Conaty Huffington Ecumenical Institute Loyola Marymount ADVERTISERS Helen Tasulis Peter Pallas Mr. & Mrs. Pete Gallanis Sandra Moss Alek & Christine Haidos Voula & Harry Siafaris Stella Morris Ted & Maria Maniatakos Sophia Margetis Demetri Valezakis Jimmy Marentes Diana Savas Fay, Barry & Barbra Lyons Tonifaye Palomares & Family Eleni Constanine, Joanna Callas, Kristin Thomas, Dina Fovos Sam Harkiss Andre Dimitriadis Puritan Bakery James & Carolyn Kolokotrones Jim & Angela Ananais Mrs. Peter Drakos Betty Stumpus Caring Funeral Service Shelly Wellington Helen Lambros Thomas & Jennie Anastassiou- Petros Kitsos Plycon Van Lines Saint Sophia Foundation Saint Sophia Philoptohos Staples Center Sophie & Tony Mastor Dr. James Angelos Mike Cockinos Mary Kezios Kaliorexi Catering Sharkey s Restaurants Pete s Burgers St. Spyridon Philoptohos Jim Bornino Erika s Flowers BOOTH SPONSORS George Christopoulos Anastasia Maniskus Nick & Sonia Stathes Jennie P. Doumak Tom & Ann Martin The Chris Tasulis Family Dr. Tom Diamantides Tony & Donna Mellos Dr. Michael & Susan Patzakis The Oldknow Family John Dalis Peggy & Dean Aronis Dr. Peter Zarras Brent & Virginia Noyes Bill & Alex Papalexis George Dascalu Family Vida Namouli Georgia Kezios Mary Laina

14 HEARTFELT APPRECIATION TO OUR 2010 LOYAL FAMILY OF SUPPORTERS! RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS L.A. Clippers Courtside Seats Los Angeles Clippers Las Rocas Getaway Jimmy Evangelatos Family Capri Laguna Getaway Dr. James Kallins Family Bonaventure Getaway Bonaventure Hotel & Suites DVD Player George & Cleo Andrews Set of Luggage Ted & Jan Pastras Flat Screen Television Timi & Gordon Freshman Gift Certificate for Bistro Gardens Restaurant Greg & Carolyn Pappas Dinner for 4 at Papa Christos Chrys Chrys Dining Certificate for Mirabelle Restaurant George Germanidis Dining Certificate for Old Venice Restaurant Julie Hanzarides VIPEEL Helene Ballas ZORBA NIGHT & REDEMPTION BAG DONORS CAFFE D AMORE NAPOLEAN PERDIS PRODUCTS DAPHNE S GREEK CAFES METAXA CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR FESTIVAL RAFFLE WINNERS! GRAND PRIZE Pleasant Holidays Dream Vacation NIKOFOROS VALASKANTZIS L.A. Clipper Tickets Antonios & Helen Papanikolaou Color TV Samir Khoury Las Rocas Getaway Maria Elena Kolovos Capri Laguna Getaway Adam Sandroni DVD Player Sydney Guillaume Set of Luggage Jerry Stathatos Dinner for 4 at Papa Christos Mr. & Mrs. S. Halekakis $200 Gift Certificate for Dinner at Bistro Gardens Elena Camaras $200 Gift Certificate for Dinner at Mirabelle Steve Morzos $50 Gift Certificate for Dinner at Old Venice Andre Dimitriadis Framed Photo of Saint Sophia Alek Haidos Hand painted Greek Gourd David Guerra Hooked on Phonics Set Annie Maxwell Handmade Quilt Ed Ey Tickets to Thanos Petrelis Marios Christofides, Michael Michaels

15 Herald Page 15 FEST CHAIRPERSONS Fest Executive Committee Nick Begakis Tammy Begakis Panos Angels Loula Edgerton Jim Edgerton Nick Sarantes Eleni Constantine Kristin Thomas Maria Bakas Jeanine Dalis Klima Andrea Bakas Ody Demetriadi Spiro Demetriadi Jim Tsarpalas Allen Altchech Stephanie Lubian Dan Lubian Mira Bakas Alexi Bakas Joyce Kokkinides Festival Ops & Logistics Ody Demetriadi Vendor Coordinator Michael Genung Taverna Kristin Begakis / Mike Begakis Sports Bar Nick & Mary Sarantes, Nick Begakis, Jr. Food/Kitchen Ops Joyce Kokkinides / Nick Begakis Accounting & Financial Loula & Jim Edgerton / Panos Angels Volunteers Stephanie Caiopoulos Lubian Inventory & Supplies Dan Lubian Marketing/PR Ted & Jan Pastras Command Center Operations Spiro Demetriadi Program Book/Graphic Design Ted & Jan Pastras / Mike Andrews Photography / Videography Allen Altchech / Mike Andrews Decorations Eleni Lotakis & Fortouna Dance Group Parking / Security Paul Cooper / Sam Konugres Liquor Control/Distribution Jim Tsarpalas Maintenance Leonard Hart Loukomathes Eleni Constantine / Kristin Thomas/Dina Fovos / Joanna CallasGyros Chris & Trish Kourafas Margaritaville Vas & Patricia Aronis, Athan & Anna Aronis Beer Garden Presbytera Maria Bakas Wine Tasting Steve & Jeannine Hanna Food Court Tammy Begakis Zorba s Feast Kathleen Kyriacou Greek Dinners Heidi & Bill Sandstrom Caffe D Amore Chris Julias Staff Beverages / Lemonada Kaplanis Family Hot Dogs / Soft Drinks Laszlo Klima Family Game Area & Charities Eleni Yokas Greek Coffee Nick Stefanides / Melinda Munoz Raffle/Passport Redemption Faye Lyons / Dinah Wellington Gift Shop Bertha Angels Front Gate Alex & Bruce Chistolini / Mike Cockinos Pastries Jeannine Dalis Klima / Eleni Constantine/Olga Jordan Cooking Demonstrations Akrivoe Emmanouilides / Pitsa Captain Church Docents Jimmy Karatsikis / Faye Demetriou Hospitality Helene Ballas Atmosphere Nicholas Hronis ~ Special Recognition & Thanks ~ FEST Sponsors Ted & Jan Pastras KUDOS & HUGS to all our Fantastic Captains & Hundreds of Volunteers!! CAFFE D AMORE METAXA CALIFORNIA PRODUCE 20TH CENTURY FOX DAPHNE S CAFE SIGNQUEST METRO TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY GREEK GODS YOGURT HRONIS GROWERS Major Donors STAPLES CENTER CHRIS JULIAS FAMILY TONY GIAPAPPAS ALEX PAPPAS FAMILY PAUL MALLIS FAMILY JIM GIANOPULOS PURITAN PAKERY GOLDEN GREEK PRODUCE LOUIE S ON MAIN CAMERON S SEAFOOD MISSION BEVERAGE JEFF BOSTEN JIMMY PANTAZIS FAMILY HRONIS, INC. FEST Art & Graphics MICHAEL ANDREWS SIGNQUEST DEAN TRIPODES DEMETRIOS CHRISTO INSTANT PRINT OF INGLEWOOD Special Thanks to ALEXIS SCANDALIS GENUNG QUEEN BEACH PRINTING NICK BEGAKIS JOYCE KOKKINIDES ANN PAPPAS THE LADIES OF PHILOPTOHOS NICHOLAS HRONIS KAREN SARAMES FR.JOHN BAKAS FR. BILL TRAGUS FR. PETER LAMBERT LEONARD HART JESUS GAMBINO MIGUEL ROSALES ASTROBURGER JAN S RESTAURANT

16 Page 16 Herald SINCERE THANK YOU!!! To all our sponsors, volunteers, and the winning team of Jan and Ted Pastras, we give sincere thanks and our appreciation. Our heartfelt thanks to: Our Celebrity guests Tom Hanks and Nia Vardalos for their generosity in hosting our Festival this year EFHARISTO!!! Our Foundation Members for their contribution of many hours counting all the incoming revenues of the Festival; we truly missed our dear coworker and leader John Sakellaris who fell asleep in the Lord. May his memory be eternal. Our Office Manager Christina Ajalat and all our Office volunteers along with our Facilities Coordinator and organizer Ann Pappas, our Dance Group members who served as our runners, and our super special thanks to Leonard Hart for his great contribution to overall operations. Leonard did a truly phenomenal job filling the position of our dear departed friend Keith Strong who died earlier this year, Thank you Leonard!!! Special recognition to Fay Demetriou and Jimmy Karatsikis for welcoming thousands of visitors to our Cathedral during the Festival, to Stephanie and Dan Lubian for their incredible work with the Volunteers, assisting the Chairs and the demands of the Inventory Supply Room, and to the supporting custodians Jesus Gambino and Miguel Rosales. Last but not least, to ALL the heroes who made the L.A. GREEK FEST a huge success! THANK YOU EFXARISTO PARA POLLI KAI TOU XRONOU!!!

17 Herald Page 17 Saint Sophia Camp Golf Tournament & Awards Dinner Friday, November 12 MONTEBELLO COUNTRY CLUB MONTEBELLO, CALIFORNIA PLEASE JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THE SAINT SOPHIA CAMP PROGRAM BY PARTICIPATING IN THE ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT THERE WILL BE A DELICIOUS BREAKFAST FROM 10 AM BEFORE THE SHOTGUN START TEE PRIZE.. WINNER S PRIZES & GOODY BAGS.. ANNUAL RAFFLE PRIZES 1ST PRIZE - A 40 INCH FLAT SCREEN TV OTHER RAFFLE PRIZES - DIGITAL CAMERA AND ROUNDS OF GOLF AT COUNTRY CLUBS IN THE AREA WONDERFUL APPETIZERS AND COCKTAILS AT THE NO-HOST BAR AFTER GOLF FOLLOWED BY OUR ANNUAL DELICIOUS ROAST BEEF DINNER NON GOLFERS WELCOME!! FOR REGISTRATION FORMS AND INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: GORDON FRESHMAN, CHAIRMAN: gfreshman@dc.rr.com or OR GEORGIA VASILA, RESERVATIONS: gcvasila@aol.com or

18 For information about ad sponsorship, please call St. George Publishing at or St. George Publishing, Inc. N0196 4c mss

19 For information about ad sponsorship, please call St. George Publishing at or St. George Publishing, Inc. N0196 4c mss

20 Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1324 South Normandie Avenue Los Angeles, California D TE E S E IV IT QU S E N SE E R ME IC TI ERV S SS E DR AD PRSRT STD U S POSTAGE PAID ARCADIA, CA PERMIT 777 Phone Fax office@stsophia.org We re on the Web! L.A. GREEK FEST Thanks to all our Fantastic Captains!