Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA 23606 Volume March 2019 Issue T C +R INSIDE THIS ISSUE: February Sundays, Acolytes, Readers Registry / Announcements Church, Club & Community News 2-3, 9 4 4-5 Our Lenten Journey 6-8 PC Minutes 9-11 Calendar 11 Hi-Lites Clean Monday, Lent Begins March 11 HWPS Dinner Theatre March 2 AHEPA Casino Night March 9 F F G S, L, L Time seems to be rushing by more quickly, especially as we are all getting older. The last time I looked there was still 24 hours in a day with each hour counting 60 minutes. In the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, do we take time out for personal reflection? The smallest effort can go the longest way when we are focused on listening carefully to everything that God says. As Orthodox Christians we have as one of our goals, the duty to identify with Jesus Christ and listen just as our Lord proclaimed in the Gospel of John (11:41), Father, I thank you that you have heard me. This verse of Holy Scripture comes to us as Jesus is preparing to raise his good friend Lazarus from the dead. In these words and actions we see how dependent Jesus was to his Father for all the glory that would be seen at not only this miracle, but all the miracles that Jesus did. We must use our sense of hearing in a positive way. We all have access to different kinds of music, but do we comprehend the lyrics and the messages that are being portrayed? Do we listen to and follow along when the hymns are being chanted by our chanters and choirs? We are blessed to have the new hymnals in our pews as a tool for all to not only participate, but to live the richness of our Orthodox hymnology. As Great and Holy Lent will begin with the Forgiveness Vespers on March 10th, let us all stop, look and listen to the rich Orthodox services and be participators in these services, not bystanders. S G L / T A H
The Cross+Roads Page 2 Glory Be To God Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA 23606 www.schgochurch.va.goarch.org Phone (757) 596-6151 Fax (757) 596-2967 Email 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 596-6152 Home 597-7786 Mobile 288-4487 Email frgchioros@aol.com Parish Council Frank Peri, President John Dermanis, Vice Pres. Bob Demson, Treasurer Zena Mageras, Asst. Treas. Kent Paumier, Secretary Greg Bicouvaris Elias Doulgerakis Bobby Garofalis Mike Kokorelis II Gary Nicholls Anastasia Theodorogiannis Chanters Tim Sofis Harry Fotiou John Williams Brian Fink George Petrakos Church Secretary Rebecca Pietronuto Archdiocese on the web www.goarch.org M 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. MARCH 3 EPISTLE READING 1 Corinthians 8:8-13; 9:1-2 GOSPEL READING Matthew 25:31-46 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Judgment Sunday (Meatfare Sunday) Theodoretos the Holy Martyr of Antioch Nonnita, mother of Saint David The Holy Martyrs Eutropius, Cleonicus, and Basiliscus Philoptochos Stavroula Gailey, President Religious Education Viola Allen, Frances Tsimplekis, Co-Directors Greek School Paula Tofalli, Katerina Sanbar Youth Ministry Mariam Canavos, Youth Director Stephanie Peri and Kent Paumier, Advisors Acolytes Barry Hendricks, Director JOY/HOPE Mariam Canavos, Director Bookstore Elizabeth Puckett Weekly Bulletin Rebecca Pietronuto WISDOM OF THE FATHERS He indicates the dispositions of each, calling the one kids, the other sheep, that He might indicate the unfruitfulness of the one, for no fruit will come from kids; and the great profit from the other, for indeed from sheep great is the profit, as well from the milk, as from the wool, and from the young, of all which things the kid is destitute. St. John Chrysostom, Homily on Matt. XXV, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Grave Mode Thou didst abolish death by Thy Cross; Thou didst open Paradise to the thief; Thou didst transform the myrrh-bearers' lamentation, and didst bid Thine (Continued on page 3) ACOLYTES MARCH 3 and 24 Team A Yianni Tsimplekis Dean Peri Michael Daoud Gabriel Daoud Christopher Micha Sameer Amireh MARCH 10 and 31 Team B James St. Martin Cris Campbell Soterios Tofalli Kyprianos Tofalli Konstantin Garofalis Aidan Capobianco MARCH 17 Team C Georgios Haramis Christos Konstantinou Christopher Myers Nolan Krisik Will Estes Alexandros Baxevanis EPISTLE READERS Please contact Barry Hendricks if you are interested in reading the Epistle during the Sunday Divine Liturgy. bhendricks@cox.net MARCH 03: Howard Mandeville 10: GOYA 17: Trish Demson 24: Joe Saur 31: Open P M O Cross+Roads Nick Vlattas Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA) Christina Myers, President Kent Paumier, Advisor Young Adult League (YAL) Anastasia Theodorogiannis, President Golden Hearts Zoe Marcopoulos, President Order of AHEPA Nick Matthews, President Daughters of Penelope Helen Dennie, President Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society Sharon Otero (March) Hellenic Youth Dancers Bobby Garofalis, Director
The Cross+Roads Page 3 (Continued from page 2) Apostles to preach that Thou art risen, O Christ God, granting great mercy to the world. Seasonal Kontakion in the First Mode O God, when You come upon the earth in glory, the whole world will tremble. A river of fire will bring all before Your Judgment Seat and the books will be opened, and everything in secret will become public. At that time, deliver me from the fire which never dies, and enable me to stand by Your right hand, O Judge most just. MARCH 10 EPISTLE READING Romans 13:11-14; 14:1-4 GOSPEL READING Matthew 6:14-21 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Anastasia of Alexandria Forgiveness Sunday Quadratus the Martyr & his Companions These Martyrs contested for piety's sake in Corinth during the reign of the Emperor Valerian (253-260). Michael Mauroudes the New- Martyr Trophimos and Thallos the Martyrs WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Here it were well to sigh aloud, and to wail bitterly: for not only do we imitate the hypocrites, but we have even surpassed them. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 20 on Matthew 6, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Fourth Mode From on high didst Thou descend, O Compassionate One; to burial of three days hast Thou submitted that Thou mightest free us from our passions. O our Life and Resurrection, Lord, glory be to Thee. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Second Mode O Master, Prudence, Guide of Wisdom, Instruction to the foolish and Defender of the poor, strengthen my heart and grant it discernment. Give me words, Word of the Father, for behold, I shall not keep my lips from crying out to You, "O Merciful One, have mercy on me who has fallen." MARCH 17 EPISTLE READING Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-40 GOSPEL READING John 1:43-51 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of Orthodoxy Paul the Righteous Martyr Alexis the Man of God Patrick the Enlightener of Ireland Theocteristos the Confessor WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Peter, when after so many miracles and such high doctrine he confessed that, "Thou art the Son of God" (Matt. xvi. 16), is called "blessed," as having received the revelation from the Father; St. John Chrysostom, Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century HMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion in the First Mode When the stone had been sealed by the Jews and the soldiers were guarding Thine immaculate Body, Thou didst arise on the third day, O Saviour, granting life unto the world. Wherefore, the powers of the Heavens cried out to Thee, O Lifegiver: Glory to Thy Resurrection, O Christ. Glory to Thy Kingdom. Glory to Thy dispensation, O only Friend of man. Apolytikion for Sun. of Orthodoxy in the Second Mode We worship Thine immaculate icon, O Good One, asking the forgiveness of our failings, O Christ our God; for of Thine own will Thou wast well-pleased to ascend the Cross in the flesh, that Thou mightest deliver from slavery to the enemy those whom Thou hadst fashioned. Wherefore, we cry to Thee thankfully: Thou didst fill all things with joy, O our Saviour, when Thou camest to save the world. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!" MARCH 24 EPISTLE READING Hebrews 1:10-14; 2:1-3 GOSPEL READING Mark 2:1-12 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas Forefeast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos Zachariah the Recluse Artemon the Presbyter WISDOM OF THE FATHERS Now Matthew indeed saith, that "they brought him," but the others, that they also broke up the roof, and let him down. And they put the sick man before Christ, saying nothing, but committing the whole to Him. St. John Chrysostom, Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY Resurrectional Apolytikion 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 Sun. of St. Gregory Palamas in the Plagal Fourth Mode Light of Orthdoxy, pillar and teacher of the Church, adornment of monastics, invincible champion of theologians, O Gregory thou wonderworker, boast of Thessalonica, herald of grace: ever pray that our souls be saved. Seasonal Kontakion in the Fourth Mode At the great Archangel's voice, O Theotokos, the All-holy Spirit came upon thee and thou didst conceive Him that is one in essence and throne with God the Father, O Adam's recovery. MARCH 31 EPISTLE READING Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:1-6 GOSPEL READING Mark 8:34-38; 9:1 SAINTS AND FEASTS COMMEMORATED Innocent, Enlightener of Siberia & Alaska Theophilos the Martyr and those with him The Holy Hieromartyr Hypatius, Bishop of Gangra Sunday of the Holy Cross Akakios the Confessor (Continued on page 5)
The Cross+Roads Page 4 C R / A BAPTISM: The infant daughter of Andrew & Antonia Reeves was baptized in our Church February 17 and was given the name Arianne Sophia by her godmother, Miranthe Golas. May the blessings of our Church be with the newlybaptized infant, Our sincere congratulations to her parents, grandparents, godmother and her entire family. Na sas zisi!!!!!!! ILL AND NEEDING OUR PRAYERS: We wish a speedy recovery to our friend and fellow parishioner, Tony Anthony, whose has been sick and recently hospitalized. PERASTIKA SOU, Tony!!!!!!! DEATHS: Our sincere condolences to the family of Kathleen Touloupas who died in December in Burlington, NC. The late Kathleen Touloupas was the sister of Nick Andre. Our sincere condolences to the family of Jim Botelis who died January 26 and for whom funeral prayers were held at graveside, January 28. Our sincere condolences to the family of Jimmy Koumbas who died February 10 and C R whose funeral service was held in our Church, February 15. Our sincere condolences to the family of Olympia Plethos, who died February 12 and whose funeral service was held in our Church February 16,. MAY THEIR MEMORY BE ETERNAL!!!!!!!! THANK YOU: Thank you to the anonymous donors who contributed $400 for the publishing and mailing of the last edition of the Cross+Roads. SUNDAY SCHOOL DONATIONS REQUESTED: The Sunday School is requesting donations from Parishioners to help purchase new tables, chairs, carpet, and other items to improve Sunday School classrooms. Any size donation to help fund this effort is appreciated. At the Parish Assembly meeting held on February 24 it was reported that the Parish Council has prioritized a list of maintenance items to improve our facilities and grounds. Please see President Frank Peri or another Parish Council member if you could help with your time, talents, or financial contributions to help accomplish these much needed items to improve our church. ATTENDANCE February 3 134 February 10 124 February 17 149 February 24 170 Feb 2019 Ave 140 Feb 2018 Ave 173 YTD 2019 Ave 146 YTD 2018 Ave 156 REFRESHMENTS We thank all those parishioners who served as hosts for the months of February. The hosts for March are: March 3: Ms. Christine St. Martin, Ms. Angela Gionis, M/M Paul Summa March 10: Philoptochos Tea March 17: M/M Pete Sun, Ms. Anastasia Theolorogiannis, M/M Angelo Theodorogiannis, Mr. C. Theodorogiannis March 24: M/M F. Peri, Ms. Molly Theophilos, M/M John Thomas March 31: The Katsantonis family, Ms. S. Valentin Koliva If you would like to purchase Koliva for memorials, you may contact: Mary Graham and Christine Fulmore 595-7871 Helen Nichollls 817-8215 Anastasia Savrides 595-1581 Athena Savvas 589-1484 Cross+Roads CHURCH EMAIL LIST Subscribe to the church email list for monthly links to the Cross+Roads and important church announcements at: www.schgochurch.va.goarch.org DEADLINE Please email information no later than the 20th day of the month to Nick Vlattas nvlattas@gmail.com
The Cross+Roads Page 5 C, C C N PHILOPTOCHOS First and foremost, we want to continue thanking the team of volunteers of our AOK project for their continued participation in this very worthwhile project as well as to thank all those persons who support our team members with their contributions both monetarily and by making sandwiches for the team members to take to our patients. Again, if you would like to contribute to this very worthy project, whether a member of Philoptochos or a member of our SS Constantine and Helen Community, please, contact Ellie Costulis, H833-8181, C303-3080 and offer your help. Many thanks for your consideration. Our Literacy Committee continues to collect "Box Tops for Education". Do bring to Church the box tops you collect and put them in the appropriate receptacle that is placed in the Narthex. Our Scholarship Committee is now accepting applications and asks that all those young people interested in applying for one of the two scholarships (The Platon Gailey and the Philoptochos Chapter ) that Philoptochos gives pick up an application form in a timely manner. Application forms will be available in the Church Office. Competed applications must be returned to the Philoptochos Scholarship Committee postmarked no later than April 30, 2019. As part of our membership drive, Philoptochos will host the coffee after Church on Sunday, March 10. We invite all our parishioners to join us for coffee and refreshments in the Community Center at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy on that Sunday. We also invite all those members of SS Constantine and Helen Community who are not as yet members of Philoptochos, to consider becoming members. Philoptochos is the right hand of our Church. Our charitable work reaches far and wide and enhances our Church's philanthropic efforts. Please, consider becoming part of Philoptochos. Our dues are only $30.00 annually. To our current members: If you have not paid your 2019 dues, do so as soon as possible. Dues can be given to Christine St. Martin, Maggie Thompson or mailed to the Church Office, ATTN: Philoptochos. On Sunday, March 17, Philoptochos will pass a tray in observance of the Sunday of Orthodoxy. Do contribute generously, everyone. These funds are used to support our various charitable endeavors. Our obligations to the National for the month of March are: A contribution to the Orthodox Christian Mission Center - Support a Mission Priest (OCMC/SAMP) which provides financial support to the missionary priests and teams; and a contribution to Hellenic College Holy Cross Lenten Event - Veneration of the Holy Cross, the proceeds of which provide for Hellenic College Holy Cross operational expenses. Our March meeting will be Monday, March 4, beginning with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. Hosting this meeting are Cleo Pileggi and Athena Savvas. HELLENIC WOMAN S PENELOPE SOCIETY The March meeting of the Hellenic Woman s Penelope Society (HWPS) will be held on Thursday, March 7 th at 6:00 pm at the Hellenic Center. Violet Samman will be the hostess and Sharon Otero will be presiding. On March 2 nd, we held our 19 th Annual Dinner/Dance. A detailed description of the event will be included in the April issue of Cross+Roads. We are saddened by the passing of our beloved longtime member, Olympia Plethos. Olympia joined HWPS in 1956 and was a very active member, serving as treasurer for many years. Her earthly departure will be greatly missed by all of us. To her beloved family, we express our love and heartfelt sympathy. May her memory be eternal. We also express our sincerest and heartfelt sympathy to the family of our dear parishioner, Jimmy Koumbas, who also passed away recently. May his memory be eternal. AHEPA FAMILY SCHOLARSHIPS The AHEPA Family Scholarships and the District 3 Scholarships applications are available in the AHEPA Family Center. Reminder for the AHEPA Family Scholarships the parent must me current with their 2019 Dues. AHEPA District 3 Scholarships must be Postmarked by April 15,2019. Local AHEPA Family Scholarships must be Postmarked by April 30, 2019. For any question please call George Anas at (757) 439-3207 or Hope Zambas at (757) 826-7212. M S S C H ( ) WISDOM OF THE FATHERS And see how He also makes His discourse unexceptionable: not saying at all, "whether you will, or no, you must suffer this," but how? "If any man will come after me." St. John Chrysostom, Homily 55 on Matthew 16, 1. B#54, p.339., 4th Century HYMNS OF THE DAY 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. Apolytikion for Sun. of the Holy Cross in the First Mode Save, O Lord, Thy people and bless Thine inheritance; grant Thou unto the faithful victory over adversaries. And by the power of Thy Cross do Thou preserve Thy commonwealth. Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!"
The Cross+Roads Page 6 O L J PREPARING FOR THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD Great Lent is a time for selfexamination and self-denial a time for taking control of our lives and our bodies. The purpose of the fast is to give us a greater awareness of our dependence on God. It is a time to improve ourselves and our relationship with God. Lent is a time for greater works of mercy and charity for those less fortunate than us. It is a time for visitation of the sick and assistance to the poor, and generally a more joyful relationship with those who are close to us our family and friends. Most of all, Lent is a time of joy and a new beginning. We cleanse ourselves mind, body and soul through the physical and spiritual fast, keeping a Christian attitude in all that we do. All this is done to prepare us for the Great Feast of Pascha the Resurrection of Christ. May God bless you and guide you, and may you reach your Paschal destination with the joy of renewed faith in Christ. PRAYER Have no anxiety about anything, but in every thing 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 Jesus Christ. -St. Paul s letter to the Philippians One key to a more fulfilling life is prayer. For Orthodox Christians, the aim of prayer is to enter into conversation with God. Prayer is sometimes referred to as dialogue with God. Often it is a waiting on God in silence. In the church it is defined as the lifting of the mind and heart to God, and also as walking in the presence of God. We turn our mind and thoughts toward Him. We mentally gaze at Him and speak with Him in reverence, fear, and hope. At times we speak to Him with words and at other times we stand in reverent silence, saying nothing, but being aware of His presence. In this dialogue with God we praise Him and thank Him. We ask Him for what we need. Our mind and our heart are opened to Him. Prayer is not only repeating words, it is trust in God that he hears and directs us in His Way involving spiritual growth and development. The Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian Read each week-day during Great Lent O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth, despair, lust of power, and idle talk. But give rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience, and love to Thy servant. Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own transgressions, and not to judge my brother, for blessed art Thou, unto ages of ages. Amen. Prayer to the Holy Spirit Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, present in all places and filling all things, the treasury of blessings and Giver of life: come and abide in us. Cleanse us from all impurity, and save our souls, O Gracious Lord. FASTING The fast for the forty days of Lent is indicated below, though many are not able to hold to the strict fast. We offer the following guidelines to be considered prayerfully with the guidance of your spiritual father and in consideration of any medical condition or dietary requirements. STRICT FAST No Meat, Fish, Milk, Dairy Products, Oil, or Oil Products PALM SUNDAY Fish, Oil & Wine permitted FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIA- TION/MARCH 25 TH March 25 th - all day: Fish, Oil & Wine Permitted Shellfish are permitted throughout Great Lent Resource: The Orthodox Daily Planner and Resource Guide published by the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries provides daily guidance in fasting, scripture, feast days and more. St. John Chrysostom on Fasting Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works. If you see a poor man, take pity on him. If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him. Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands and all the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice. Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin. Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful. Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip. Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism. For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and devour our brothers? May He who came to the world to save sinners strengthen us to complete the fast with humility, have mercy on us and save us. Jesus Instructions on Fasting "Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. BIBLE READING In private study, when a Christian profitably reads the Bible, receiving inspiration and strength from it, family members, friends, relatives and even acquaintances will inevitably notice the difference. Any person who comes into contact with such a Christian cannot but notice the growing peace, love and inner assurance - the spirit of Christ - in that Christian, and will frequently ask (if not ask, certainly think) what gives that person such strength and radiance. God will provide many opportunities to the growing Christian for sharing with others his or her experience with the Bible. What better witness for the truth of the Christian faith than a solid Christian life nour-
ished by Holy Scripture and radiating true Christian love at home, at Church and at work? The Christian's own life becomes a kind of gospel, a living Bible, in which other people observe, read and experience the truths of God in action. From Bread for Life, by Father Theodore Stylianopoulos Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education Suggestions for family Bible reading: Set aside a regular time for daily reading preferably in the evening at the supper table when the whole family is together. When the children are young, mom or dad can do the reading. When the children grow older, they may share in the reading. Reading to children is one of life's greatest joys. Children treasure it. Don't read too much or too fast. One chapter a day is sufficient. Let what you read sink in slowly. If the children are young, read from a Bible story book-one that has pictures which you can show the children. Start with the biographies of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). Read with the faith and the expectation that God will really and truly speak to you through what you read. Don't worry about the passages you do not understand. Concentrate on what you do understand. The more you read, the more you will understand. One passage explains another. Each day memorize at least one verse that grips you. Say it out loud as a family three or four times. Encourage your children to fall asleep with this verse on their lips. Get a translation your children understand. As you read, try to have an icon of Jesus before you if you are reading the Gospels; one of St. Paul if you are reading his epistles, etc. This will help you realize who it is who is speaking to you. from Making God Real in the Orthodox Home REPENTANCE & CONFESSION Repentance has its roots in the apostles. In the Book of Acts the Apostle Peter says, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:37-38) When we fall away from God, we have removed ourselves from His communion with Him and with other Christians. We have excommunicated ourselves. To re -enter communion with God is the on-going activity of all Christians. We fall away daily in some way or another. No one is exempt. Often, when children play in competitive games, one will call out that s a do over! Haven t we all wished for that chance to undo the past and start over? Repentance offers us this new beginning. We are telling God that we have changed our mind about our past direction and want to be back in communion with him. The Greek work for repentance, metanoia, implies a very deep change in the way we see ourselves, our world, and our relationship to God. To change our mind in repentance is the starting point in our Lenten journey. We leave behind regret as we move toward hope. Repentance is not a single action but an attitude, a frame of mind. Think back over your life of things which you regret having said or done hurtful, inconsiderate, selfish, deceitful. Think also of those things which you have done which may not have directly affected others, but which you know to be wrong according to the teachings of the Church. Bring them to mind as if they were occurring right now. Think of how it would have been if you had acted differently. Take this regret and turn it into repentance. Acknowledge that you have offended another person or the Church, and in doing so you have offended God. If we are to be forgiven by God, He requires of us that we also forgive one another. For many of us, this is the most difficult aspect of repentance and confession. Yet we say it each time we pray the Lord s prayer, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Just as God s love for us is personal, so must ours be for Him. As the Christian grows from child to adult, his or her personal response to God becomes crucial. This personal response is the act of confession. HOLY COMMUNION The Sacrament of Holy Communion the Eucharist which literally means "Thanksgiving," is the Mystery whereby the bread and wine of offering are changed, actually, not symbolically, into the very Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. The Eucharist is at the very center of the Church's life, and from it flows the prayer of believers in a sacrifice of entreaty for the peace of the world, for all those who ask for help, and for all men and women '"The Eucharist unites us in the most intimate fashion with the Lord; it nourishes our soul and body, and aids our strengthening, increase, and growth in spiritual life. According to the promise of the Gospel, He that eats this bread will live forever. (The Gospel of John 6:58) Page 7 The cup which holds the wine that becomes the blood of Christ is the chalice, the cup of salvation. When we kneel during the liturgy, we pray with the priest that God the Holy Spirit may change the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus. This means that when we receive Holy Communion, Jesus comes to live in us. How do we prepare to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus? We pray. We should have love in our hearts for all people. We should ask forgiveness from God and from our parents, brothers, and sisters, and from anyone we may have hurt. When we come before the priest for Communion, we make the sign of the cross, tell the priest our baptismal name, hold the Communion cloth under our chin, and open our mouth wide. After receiving, we wipe our lips with the Communion cloth, make the sign of the cross, and hand the Communion cloth to the person next to us. Once we have received Communion, we must remember that we have become one with Christ and with all those who received Communion with us. Christ now lives in all of us. We are all living icons of Jesus. It is by loving one another that we love Jesus. After receiving Communion our bodies become holy chalices. God lives in us. Jesus wants to use our hands, which have now become His hands, to help those in need. When we receive Communion, we become members of Christ's Body, the Church. This means that Jesus has no eyes but our eyes, no feet but our feet to do His work in the world today. What kind, thoughtful act will you do for Jesus today? From Let s Take a Walk Through Our Orthodox Church by Fr. Anthony M. Coniaris / Light & Life Publishing
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The Cross+Roads Page 9 C W P Offered for the Glory of God and the prayers of: Wreaths Given by: Mike & Nia Kokorelis Poinsettias Given by: The Accardi Family George & Jackie Anas: In Memory of our Parents, Chet, Alice, Theodore & Helen Georgia Mamangakis & Barney Barnes: In Memory of Shelia Barnes and In Honor of Elizabeth Puckett Mr. & Mrs. Leroy & Joanna Bossetti: In Thanksgiving for Leroy & Joanna Bossetti Beth Campbell & Family: In Memory of Ada Van Ness Fr George, Presv. Flora, Constantine Chioros, Fr Nick Despotides: In Memory of Presvytera Moscha & John Despotides Patricia Beaudry Demson: In Memory of Jerome Beaudry Dermanis Family: In Memory of Sylvia & John Matthews, Anna & George Gasparis Faye Evans: In Memory of Steve & Dorothy Andrews John & Barbara France: In Memory of Paul E. France, John & Maria Nemechek Vicki Freeman: In Honor of Helen Siokis; In Memory of Steve Siokis/Dot Freeman, Laney, Dora & Fofi Alvin & Alexa Garrison: In Memory of Our Parents Bill Georges: In Memory of Voula & Stacey Koumbas; Sam & Frank Mageras The Grepiotis Family: Tom, Libby, Thomas, Matthew, Maxine, Jo In Memory of Arthur Grepiotis & John Grepiotis Chris & Elaine Jansen: In Memory of Phoebus Karageorgis & Sophie Kiklis Gonny Maria Kaoudis: In Thanksgiving for the Kaoudis Family John Karatsikis: In Thanksgiving for the Karatsikis Family Anna & Zena Mageras: In Memory of Sam Mageras, Grandparents, Stacey Koumbas & Thanksgiving & Health for Anna & Zena Debbie Malliarakis: In Honnor of Julia Malliarakis and In Memory of Nicholas John Malliarakis Sylvia Marcin: In Memory of John Michael, Thomas & Christine & all loved ones gone to their rest Athena T. Markos: In Memory of Pete N. Markos Ted & Maria Maroulis Joanie Michalos: In Memory of Alex J. Michalos Mary & John Michos: In Memory of Antigoni Marcou, Aristides Michos Camelia Pana: In Memory of Radu Sturzu Kent & Georgene Paumier: In Memory of Lambros & Paumier Families Russian School of Hampton Roads Jane & Joe Saur: : In Honor of Dr. & Mrs. James Lent, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph C. Saur Dianne & Pete Sun: In Memory of Chris & Cleo Zervos Angelo & Nia Theodorogiannis: In Memory of Athanasios & Anastasia Kokinos & Konstantinos & Zoe Theodorogiannis Sotos & Panayiota Tofalli: In Memory of Christofi Fanari Dr. Lambros P. Tzerefos: In Honor of Erika Oahms Joanna Vallas: In Memory of Theo & Domna Vallas Barb & Nick Vlattas In Memory of Pat, Wilbur, Bob Burgin; Anne, Emmanuel Vlattas Voula & Nick Vretakis: In Memory of John & Maria Myrsiades; George & Fotini Vretakis James E. A. Woodbury In Memory of Victoria A. Babenko- Woodbury P C M DECEMBER 10, 2018 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: Present: Father George Chioros, Frank Peri, John Dermanis, Zena Mageras, Bobby Garofalis, Kent Paumier, Greg Bicouvaris, Tom Grepiotis, Nick Matthews, Anastasia Theodorogiannis Absent: Elias Doulgerakis, Stavroula Gailey Guest: Gary Nicholls, Howard Mandeville The meeting convened at 18:30 with an opening prayer by Father George. The following items were discussed: II: Minutes: Mageras - motion to approve the meeting minutes of the 19 Nov 18 meeting; seconded by Theodorogiannis, passed unanimously. III: Correspondence: Thank You Letter from Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, DTD 28 Nov 18, for our food donation of Sixty-six pounds of food. Christmas Card and donation request from Ronald McDonald House New York Greek Division, DTD December 2018. Motion Theodorogiannis to donate $100.00 to Ronald McDonald House New York Greek Division ; Seconded by Garofalis, passed unanimously. IV: Treasurer s Report: By Zena Mageras attached with minutes. Account Item 10100 renamed Maintenance Reserve / Organ Fund Replacement Account Item 10101 renamed to Gifting. V: Visitor s Comments: Howard has worked up a maintenance list and is working on a priority list. Attached herein VI: Committee Reports: Youth Ministry Mariam Canavos GOYA lock-in December 8th- 9th in Richmond GOYA giving tree has been set up in the Narthex Christmas pageant Dec 16th W&M OCF/ Young Adult retreat in February 12-13 Jan- Richmond GOYA Tournament Orthodoxy on Tap upcoming House Committee Barbra France Bible and Shipyard breakfasts are continuing with good attendance. Our last breakfast was December 6th. Due to PORT and Holiday break, our next breakfasts begin on January 8th with the shipyard breakfast. We had three (3) rentals since last meeting. The HYD Event, Baby Shower held in front coffee/fellowship hall and the DOP Craft Fair. All events went well. The Cappucino/Hot Cocoa machine was knocked over. I have spoken to Jessie Allen who will be looking into whether or not door hinges are available. There was damage to the drywall and the tile floor trim from the fall. The Kwanis Club rental 21 Sept 19 will require a Rider from their insurance company for an outside tent. The House Rules update is still being worked. Upcoming Events thru 2018: December 12th thru 19th PORT December 22nd Baptism (Parishioner) December 29th Quinceanera Festival Committee John Dermanis Still working on the final numbers. There are some outstanding checks and expenses to be captured. Maintenance Committee See Mandeville s Maintenance List attached herein Stewardship Ministry Nick Matthews: As of 11/30/2018 Stewardship (Fund 1) $147,958.20 Other (Funds 1 & 2) $193,654.22 Total (Funds l, 2 & 3) $196,682.08 Families Pledged 166 Stewardship Commitment $169,494.00 Average Family Pledged $892.89 (Continued on page 10)
The Cross+Roads Page 10 P C M 12/10/18 1/28/19 (Continued from page 9) Gave Regularly but not Pledged 51 VII: Priest s Report Father George Father went over the Christmas Service hours Christmas Program is this Sunday Port Project starts this Wednesday. We are providing the dinner on the 16 TH Dec and breakfast the 17 TH. 26 Nov Parish Council Election results sent to the diocese Thank You to Teddy Fotiou for fixing the old church sign damage by Michael combining and hanging the Steward of the Year Plaque in the church office hallway. New Years Eve Dance is in Norfolk this year Dress code for ushers some parishioners have complained. Thanked the outgoing Parish Council members and welcomed the incoming members. 13 Jan 19 he will swear in the new Parish Council members. Father is getting the church credit card from TownBank VIII: Unfinished Business: 1. Fence Repair Still waiting for final bids. The insurance deductible is $1000.00 2. Review Actions from General Assembly Meeting: a. Fall Festival Loukamades machine location for next year or hood/extinguisher modifications in the kitchen to support temp location. b. Insurance discount for addition of security cameras to the property. c. Lighting outside of Church office need to check. Done d. Active shooting training/drill for the community what to do. Twenty-five interested, tentative date 14 Jan 19 e. Door/Egress evaluation - doors open downstairs people are upstairs or in the gym. People can enter the building without being seen. Start locking doors. f. Hiring security for days of service. g. Maintenance/Repair List. Attached herein h. Nick Vrettos Challenge Council & Stewardship Committee - Making Christ in the Church. Give us a plan Growing the community, bringing people who have not been attending back to the Church. i. Joanna Bossetti Children not in the church for services. Need to bring them from Sunday School. How many kids are in Sunday School, basketball, dance etc... all need to be in church. 3. Organ/Maintenance account change 4. Safety Deposit Box Contents Get 2ND appraisal or sell items. TBD by 21Jan19. VIII: New Business: 1. Recent Donations a. Lighting in the Nave. Teddy is working estimates for LED replacements and ceiling tile replacements which should be accomplished at the same time utilizing the scaffolding. b. New Desks for Sunday School rooms donated by Chris and Hope Zambas. TBD for delivery 2. Around the Room a. Bicouvaris thanked the outgoing Parish Council members (Matthews, Grepiotis and Gailey) for their service. b. Mageras Flags need to be replaced. IX: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at 19:30. Next PC meeting will be 28 Jan 19 at 1830. X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Kent M. Paumier Secretary JANUARY 28, 2019 I: Call to Order & Opening Prayer: Present: Father George Chioros, Frank Peri, Zena Mageras, Kent Paumier, Robert Demson, Greg Bicouvaris, Elias Doulgerakis, Anastasia Theodorogiannis, Bobby Garofalis, Michael Kokorelis, Gary Nicholls Absent: John Dermanis The meeting convened at 18:34 with an opening prayer by Father George. The following items were discussed: II: Minutes: Bicouvaris made motion to approve the meeting minutes of the 10 Dec 18 meeting; seconded by Nicholls, passed unanimously. III: Correspondence: Thank You Letter from Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, DTD 23 Jan 19, for our food donation of 119 pounds of food. Letter of Thanks from Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, DTD 16 Jan 19, J. Katsias Parish Council President, for our communities attendance at their 2018 New Year s Eve Celebration. IV: Treasurer s Report: Robert Demson & Zena Mageras attached with minutes. Mageras The Treasures Report from 19 Nov 18 minutes was incorrect. The full $10K was transferred from the General Account to the Maintenance Reserve/Organ Fund Replacement. The cost of recent organ repairs were not deducted. V: Visitor s Comments: None VI: Committee Reports: Youth Ministry Mariam Canavos The Youth Directors from Richmond had a meeting on January 16th to plan upcoming events Richmond Basketball Tournament Jan 12-13 got canceled due to weather. 8-9 Feb OCF/Young Adult Retreat 23 Feb JOY/HOPE Movie Night Annual GOYA Spaghetti lunch March 24th 15-17 Mar GOYA Retreat 13 Apr Oratorical Festival 20 Apr Teaching liturgy Lazarus Saturday 25-29 June VBS 7-13 Jul Camp Good Shepherd House Committee Barbra France Bible and Shipyard breakfasts are continuing with ok attendance. The cold weather takes its toll. Also, the leader of the bible breakfast will be out for 3 weeks minimum for double hip replacement surgery. We had two (2) rentals since last meeting. A parishioner baptism and a Quinceanera. Both events went well. There are no rentals thru January and February. However, once we get into March, there are no available weekends until June 29th. Maintenance Committee Howard Mandeville Hall Storage Room water is leaking from a drain pipe in the wall. Doulgerakis to look at it. Fall Festival Loukamades fryer Reconfigure hood & suppression system to cover the fryer or place it outside. Refrigeration equipment support structure, outside over the kitchen back door, metal decking is rusting and need to be checked. The area in front of the dumpsters a load of aggregate is needed to fill in mud hole. Contact Randy Pingley about availability of grader to spread the aggregate. Stewardship Ministry TBD: Stewardship (Fund 1) As of 01/28/2019 $18,821.00 Stewardship Other (Fund 2) $2,360,.05 Other (Funds 1 & 2) $21,181.05 Total (Funds l, 2 & 3) $21,181.05 Families Pledged 98 Stewardship Commitment $115,647.00 Average Family Pledged $1,180.07 Gave Regularly but not Pledged 51 VII: Priest s Report Father George Barry Hendricks petition for Ordination has been approved. Awaiting an Ordination date from his Eminence. 22 Jan Offered the Opening Prayer at the city council meeting 25 Jan Signature papers taken to Towne Bank 3-5 Feb Clergy Retreat Ocean City, MD 3 Feb AHEPA Super Bowl Party (Continued on page 11)
The Cross+Roads (Continued from page 10) 8 Feb Paraclesis Service at ST. Demetrios in Williamsburg. Please leave audio system on until the chanters are done. Sylvia Marcin, on 2 Jan 19, submitted her Letter of Resignation effective 5 Feb 19. 24 Feb Spring Assembly after church. 50 parishioners required for a quorum. The Ecumenical Patriarchate sent a letter to Princeton University for return of early church papers stolen during WWI VIII: Unfinished Business: 1. Repair of fence at property border vendor selected, parts ordered, expect completion in 4 weeks. Down selected New Leaf to repair the fence for approximately $1,272.00 2. Maintenance priorities 3. Recent Donations a. Lighting in the Nave. Awaiting info from Teddy Fotiou b. New Desks for Sunday School rooms donated by Chris and Hope Zambas. Obtaining sample before ordering VIII: New Business: 1. Budget Approval Reviewed the budget for 24 Feb 19 Parish Assembly. Paumier motion to approve the budget as amended with the change of $28,095.00 from surplus to the Maintenance/ Repair account; seconded by Nicholls, passed unanimously. 2. Agenda for General Assembly Mike Chalkias will help with the presentation of the 2019 budget. Demson will present the 2018 summary. Action Paumier for Agenda Draft 3. Ushering 101 Please be attentive of the Usher s Schedule especially the early time. 4. Around the Room Barbara France The Hall has some down time and looking to get the Hall and kitchen cleaned. Theodorogiannis Getting with France to determine a Sunday date for 70TH Anniversary Luncheon IX: Adjournment: Fr. George offered the closing prayer at 20:55. Next PC meeting will be 18 Feb 19 at 1830. X: Certification: Respectfully Submitted Kent M. Paumier Secretary 2 Saturday First Saturday of Souls 9:00 am Orthros 6:00 pm HWPS Dinner Dance 3 Sunday Judgement Sunday - Meatfare 8:45 am Orthros 4 Monday 6:30 pm Philoptochos 5 Tuesday 5:00 pm 8:00 pm Greek School Classes 6 Wednesday 6:00 pm Paraclesis 6:00 pm Basketball/GOYA Hangout 7:00 pm Adult Education Lenten Series 7:15 pm Choir 7 Thursday 6:30 pm HWPS 9 Saturday Second Saturday of Souls 9:00 am Orthros 6:00 pm AHEPA Casino Night 10 Sunday Forgiveness Sunday - Cheesefare 8:45 am Orthros 5:00 pm Forgiveness Vespers 11 Monday 6:00 pm Compline 12 Tuesday 5:00 pm 8:00pm Greek School Classes 13 Wednesday 6:00 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Basketball/GOYA Hangout March 2019 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 7:00 pm Adult Education Lenten Series 7:15 pm Choir 15 Friday First Salutations Goya Lenten Retreat 5:30 pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00 pm First Salutations 16 Saturday Third Saturday of Souls Goya Lenten Retreat 9:00 am Orthros 17 Sunday Sunday of Orthodoxy Goya Lenten Retreat 8:45 am Orthros Artoclasia for the Zambas Family 40 Day Memorial for James Koumbas 6:30 pm Pan Orthodox Vespers at St. Basil Hampton 18 Monday 6:00 pm Compline 7:00 pm Parish Council 19 Tuesday 5:00 pm 8:00 pm Greek School Classes 20 Wednesday 6:00 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Basketball/GOYA Hangout 7:00 pm Adult Education Lenten Series 7:15 pm Choir 22 Friday Second Salutations 5:30 pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00 pm Second Salutations Page 11 24 Sunday Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas 8:45 am Orthros 1 Year Memorial for Charita Stavrou 12:00 pm Greek School Program Goya Luncheon 6:30 pm Annunciation Vespers Norfolk 25 Monday Feast of the Annunciation Greek Independence Day 8:45 am Orthros 26 Tuesday 5:00 pm 8:00 pm Greek School Classes 27 Wednesday 6:00 pm Presanctified Liturgy 6:00 pm Basketball/GOYA Hangout 7:00 pm Adult Education Lenten Series 7:15 pm Choir 28 Thursday 6:45 pm AHEPA/DOP 29 Friday Third Salutations 5:30 pm Soup Supper in Sacalis Hall 7:00 pm Third Salutations 31 Sunday Sunday of Holy Cross 9:00 am Orthros 1 Year Memorial for Perri Katsantonis Special Tray for Hellenic College/ Holy Cross
Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church 60 Traverse Road Newport News VA 23606 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) www.schgochurch.va.goarch.org Phone (757) 596-6151 Fax (757) 596-2967 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.