November 2014
November 2014 Fr. Alex’s Message 1 Fr. Hector’s Message 2 Stewardship Philoptochos 3 Parish News & Events 4 Parish Council Nominations 5 Parish Spiritual Life 6 Advent Prayer Chain 7 Parish Photos 8-9 Daughters of Penelope AHEPA 10 Preschool 11 Kalanda 12 Oratorical Festival 13 Spiritual Message / Greek 14 News & Events/ Greek 15 Parish Council 16 Sponsors 17 Inserts: November Calendar Advent Retreat Synaxis of the Archangels– Nov. 8 “Receive and Share the Light of Christ!” ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 Phone: 717-394-1735 Fax: 717-394-0991 Email: agochurch@comcast.net Website: www.annunciationorthodox.org Office Hours: Monday—Friday, 8:00 AM—4:00 PM The Annunciator is the monthly newsletter of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Submissions for consideration are due the 15th of each month. (Please submit in Publisher or Word format) Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church is under the jurisdiction of: His Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholemew His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America His Eminence, Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Parish Administration Clergy Rev. Alexander Goussetis, Pastor Rev. Hector Firoglanis, Assistant Priest Rev. Alexander Veronis, Pastor Emeritus Parish Council Maria Querry, President Alexander A. Mountis Artemis Tsoflias George Soukas Helen Hazatones Nicholas Veronis David Gammache Kim Keares Joanne Martin Peter S. Billis Donna Vitko Kaliopi Karomfily Maria Barron Jim Voulopos John Stauffer Board of Elders Dr. James Argires George Katsaros Constantine J. Kourgelis Olga Pratt Church Staff Cantors………….. …………………. ………….Nicholas Belessis Nicholas Billis Jonathan Troop Ecclesiarch…….…………...….…………………….John Scanlon Lay Assistant……..……… …..……….………….Maria Koursaris Building Supervisor…………...….……………David Gammache Office Administrator……………………………...Sherry Anderson Administrative Assistant……...…………………..Pat Hazatones Office Assistant………………...…………………... Mary Keares Volunteer Office Assistants……….................... Demetria Baker Sunday Bulletin…………………………..……….Maria Koursaris The Annunciator………………………………...Sherry Anderson Church Office Email Addresses Fr. Alexander Goussetis……………..fralexg@comcast.net Fr. Hector Firoglanis………..………..firoglanis@gmail.com Fr. Alexander Veronis……………...frveronis@comcast.net Sherry Anderson………………….agochurch@comcast.net Maria Koursaris…………………..agocmaria@comcast.net David Gammache………………...agocdavid@comcast.net Sunday Worship Hours September - May 8:00 AM - Early Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM - Orthros/Matins 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy June - August 8:15 AM - Orthros 9:30 AM - Divine Liturgy Contacts Sunday School…………………..…………….Sally Stratigos Dan Soukas, Jonathan Troop Choir…………………………………………..Maria Koursaris Organist....…………….………………….Zaferula Yelagotes Philoptochos……………..………….Cassandra Karamanos Christine Speros GOYA..………….………………………….Michael Efstration JOY Dance…………….………….……………….Karen Herr GOYA Dance………………..………………Despina Proithis Greek School PTO……………..............Robin Roumeliotis AHEPA………………...…………………..Constantine J. Seiss Daughters of Penelope….………………...Mary P.Morgan Zaferula Yelagotes Pan-Coan Society……….…………………...Tasos Marinos Chiotiko Society……………..................Panagiotis S. Billis Webmaster…………….…………….. Dimitri & Kim Keares Bazaar Committee……………………………………………………..Kosta Kontanis Alexandra Schramm Bookstore………………………………….Paul & Kay Benos Service & Outreach Committee………............Joanne Martin Susana Troop F r . A l e x an d e r G o u s s e t i s ’ Me s s ag e Praying for Others Prayer is a broad category that covers many expressions and ways that we communicate with God. Prayer includes, but is not limited to: -Praise and glory for the King of Kings -Gratitude and thanksgiving for the many blessings we experience -Seeking forgiveness, restoration, and renewal from God -Intercession for others We express intercessory prayer right at the start of the Divine Liturgy — praying for our civil leaders and for the sick, suffering, and travelers. Perhaps the Church is modeling for us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and in fact, interdependent with others. St. Paul put it this way: the Church is a body, and each of us is a part of that body, each supplying something, and each is completely dependent on the others. But while this body metaphor is helpful, it is somewhat misleading to many because it has too often been interpreted merely as an example of how we physically help one another. Certainly, we physically help one another, but that is the reality for all humanity -- no human being is an island. What is unique for the Christian understanding is that the body is a metaphor for our spiritual dependence on one another, our prayers, our intercessions for one another. This is why St. Paul is continually begging everyone he writes to pray for him, and why he continually reminds everyone he writes that he is praying for them. Our spiritual success -- growth in life and godliness -- depends on the prayers of others. I cannot be saved on my own. Any spiritual growth, any victory over the passions, any enlightenment or understanding of spiritual truth comes to us through the prayers and intercessions of others. I emphasize this spiritual truth because I want to extend an invitation to you to participate in the Advent Prayer Chain (page 7); an opportunity to intercede daily for every member of our parish community. It is a spiritual discipline that reminds us that prayer is not self-serving but life-giving to others. “It is of great significance if there is a person who truly prays in a family. Prayer attracts God’s Grace and all the members of the family feel it, even those whose hearts have grown cold. Pray always.” Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica, “When you see faults and passions in your neighbor, pray for him; pray for everybody, even for your enemy.” St. John of Kronstadt www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 1 F r . H e c t o r ’ s Me s s ag e 4 Steps to Overcoming Anxiety with Faith I. Live a Christ-Centered Life II. “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind” (Luke 10:27). “Life without Christ is not life. That’s the way it is...If you don’t see Christ in everything you do, you are without Christ” (Elder Porphyrios, Precious Vessels, p. 167). “Let us struggle with all our powers to gain Paradise. The gate is very narrow (Matt. 7:14), and don’t listen to those who say that everyone will be saved. This is a trap of Satan so that we won’t struggle” (Elder Paisios, Precious Vessels, p. 140). Simplify Life “Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, ‘One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me” (Mark 10:21). “The more people distance themselves from a natural, simple life and embrace luxury, the more they suffer from anxiety” (Elder Paisios, With Pain and Love for Contemporary Man, p. 167). “These days I stress simplicity to lay people too, because many of the things they do are not necessary and they end up being consumed by anxiety. I speak to them of austerity and asceticism. I constantly scold them, ‘If you want to get rid of anxiety, simplify your lives” (Elder Paisios, With Pain and Love for Contemporary Man, p. 182). III. Be a Good Steward “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you” (Luke 6:38). “God gives some people more than they need, not that they can enjoy great luxury, but to make them stewards of His bounty on behalf of orphans, the sick, and the crippled. If they are bad stewards, keeping this bounty for themselves, they will become poor in spirit, and their hearts will fill with misery. If they are good stewards, they will become rich in spirit, their hearts filling with joy” (St. John Chrysostom, Living Simply, p. 6). IV. Find Rest and Comfort for Your Soul “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gently and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Let us simplify our lives to notice God, receive His comfort, and reduce anxiety in our lives. “I am He that comforts you… For I am the Lord your God…” (Isaiah 51:12-15). www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 2 S t e wa r d s h i p Me s s ag e / P h i l o p t o c h o s N e w s Thanks to you, our parishioners, for your hard work and the sharing of your time and talent. Our parish flourishes because of you! Thanks to all of you for your Stewardship pledges for 2015. If you haven’t filled out your pledge card, please do so and deposit in the box provided in the Narthex or mail to the church office. PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS October Meeting Review Thank you to Athena Hasik and Connie Mimidis for being our hostesses and providing the wonderful desserts a er the mee ng! We were blessed with a wonderful pro‐ gram by Kim Wi el – Execu ve Director of Love INC (Love in the Name of Christ). Philopthochos has been giving to this organiza‐ on for several years. Kim offered us an inspir‐ ing window into the workings of this organiza‐ on. As described on their website, Love INC "is a ministry that connects churches with the needs of their neighbors, allowing Christ’s love to transform lives and communi es." For exam‐ ple, it connects a person in need with a person from a nearby parish to provide services such as transporta on to doctor appointments, yard work, or simply visita on. www.annunciationorthodox.org Keeping you posted… Next Mee ng: No November Mee ng Christmas Lenten covered dish Tuesday, December 9, 5:30pm Vasilopita Celebra on Sunday, January 11 following Liturgy Christmas Covered Dish Social All Philoptochos members and their en re families are invited to join us for fun and fellowship at 5: 30 PM on Tuesday, December 9, in Philoptochos Hall. A Lenten main course will be provided by the officers. Members are asked to provide side dishes / desserts accordingly: Last names beginning with A‐J: please bring a vegetable side dish or salad Last names beginning with K‐Z: please bring a dessert The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 3 Pa r i s h N e w s & Ev e n t s SACRAMENTS BAPTISM October 4 James Robbins, godparent Daniel Blain CHRISMATION October 25 James Robbins, godparent Jonathan Troop. October 25 Lonna Robbins, godparent Jan Schaefer ALTARCANDLES CANDLES &&FLOWERS ALTAR FLOWERS Altar Candles…… October 5 In loving memory of our parents George and Evelyn Vlassis by Mary Jane and Arthur Pavlatos and family, Suzanne Myers and family, and Doreen and Charles F. Snyder and family. October 12 GOYA GOYA Greek Dance Costume Donations Needed The Annunciation GOYA would like to replace their worn, 15+ year old traditional Greek dance costumes. Our dancers are showcased at our Church Bazaar, plus several recent community events, such as the Janus School Annual Fundraiser, the Central Market Harvest Breakfast on Oct 4th, the Pleasant View Retirement Community on Nov 16th, and the Old World Multi-Cultural Festival on June 21, 2015, and the opportunities keep growing. If you or your organization is interested in making a contribution, please contact one of the dance organizers. Any amount will be greatly appreciated. Thank you! Despina Proithis, despinoula@comcast.net, 717.940.3387 Angie Efstration, a.efstration@yahoo.com, 717.468.5252 Alex Schramm, alexschramm@gmail.com, 717.823.0132 Project Mexico 2015 Father Alex will be leading a group to the Orthodox orphanage and building a home for a family. The dates will be August 4-10. For more information, please contact Father Alex. www.annunciationorthodox.org In loving memory of my mother, Sophia Sturges Veikos and father, Peter Vekios by daughter Mary Efthymiades and Christopher Efthymiades, children and grandchildren. Altar Flowers…… October 5 In loving memory of our parents George and Evelyn Vlassis by Mary Jane and Arthur Pavlatos and family, Suzanne Myers and family, and Doreen and Charles F. Snyder and family. October 12 In loving memory of my parents Efthymios and Vasiliki Efthymiades by son Christopher Efthymiades and Mary Efthymiades, children and grandchildren. October 19 In loving memory of Gus Mastrogeorge (19 yrs.) by his sister Dionysia Mastro giorgos and children George and Eleni Mastrogiorgos. Candelabra Candles…… October 5 In loving memory of our parents George and Evelyn Vlassis by Mary Jane and Arthur Pavlatos and family, Suzanne Myers and family, and Doreen and Charles F. Snyder and family. Congratulations Katina Jones won the AAA District Tennis 2014 Single Title. (Penn Manor) Elizabeth Veronis won the AA District Tennis 2014 Single Title. (Lancaster Catholic) The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 4 Pa r i s h c o u n c i l N o m i n at i o n s ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 PARISH COUNCIL NOMINATIONS 2015-2016 TERM OF OFFICE The Parish Council assists in the administration of the parish. It provides lay leadership and supports the clergy in promoting the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ in all ways possible. Building up the spiritual life of our parishioners in Christ is always the underlying concern of our Church leadership, lay and clergy. The Board of Elders Nominating Committee is announcing that there are vacancies on the Parish Council for 20152016. Names may be submitted by Church Members in Good Standing by filling out the form on this page. Nominations should be submitted to the Board of Elders by SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2014. Members of the Board of Elders (2014) Dr. James Argires George Katsaros Constantine Kourgelis Dr. Olga Pratt We nominate _______________________________________________________________ for the Parish Council of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (2015-2016). __________________________________________________________________________ (Name of Nominator) (Date) (Signature) __________________________________________________________________________ (Name of Nominator) (Date) (Signature) I accept the Nomination: __________________________________________________________________________ (Name of Nominee) (Date) (Signature) www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 5 Pa r i s h S p i r i t ua l L i f e Learn Your Faith! Our parish is blessed to offer a variety of Bible Studies and discussion groups to help inform and inspire our parishioners and friends. Below you will find a group that will match your schedule and level of interest. Check the weekly bulletin, the monthly Annunciator, and the parish website for specific dates and times of the following groups. AGAPE Bible Study Women’s Orthodox Study Group This monthly group, led by Fr. Veronis, offers a fellowship and study in the Greek language. Refreshments will be offered by the Women’s Bible Study This group, led by Presvytera Lisa Goussetis, meets every other Thursday of the month. Book studies and video presentations are offered. Child care available. Tuesday, Nov. 18 9:30 AM Thursday, Nov. 13, 20 9:30 AM Early Risers Group Orthodox Study Group This weekly group meets at 6:30AM each Thursday. Fr. Alex Goussetis leads the group in the reading of Orthodox books and the viewing of various instructional videos on the faith. This group meets monthly on Saturday. The group is led by Fr. Veronis and focuses on Bible passages and readings on the Orthodox faith. Thursday, Nov. 6 & 20 6:30 AM Saturday, Nov. 22 9:30 AM Women’s Bible Study College Fellowship (OCF) This group, led by Presvytera Pearl Veronis, meets weekly on Tuesday mornings. Bible Studies and other resources are used for inspiration and education of the Orthodox faith. This weekly group, led by Fr. Hector serves the college students of Franklin & Marshall and Millersville University. (110 McComsey Hall) Tuesday, Nov. 4, 11, 18 10:00 AM Wednesday, Nov. 5, 12, & 19 8:00 PM Orthodox/Mennonite Dialogue Young Adults Bible Study This monthly group, led by Fr. Goussetis, is an “unofficial” Orthodox-Mennonite dialogue and study group. Readings and discussions on the two traditions are shared by members of the Mennonite & Orthodox faiths. This group, led by Fr. Hector serves the Young Adults of our parish. Nov. 14 at 12 noon Tuesday, Nov. 4 Annunciation Church –Room 7 7:00 PM “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Proverbs 119:105 www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 6 Adv e n t P r ay e r C h a i n Would you like to Join the Advent Prayer Chain? Twenty volunteers are needed to form a discipline of praying and interceding for our parish community throughout the Advent season (November 15 — December 25). The schedule below indicates that each person will pray the Jesus Prayer for every parish family each day. For example, on November 15 Person A will pray for all the families from Agadis to Billis. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on the Agadis family” etc. On November 16, that same person will offer the Jesus Prayer from Blain to Drogaris, and so forth on a rotating basis. Thus collectively the Annunciation parish community will be kept in prayer each day during this Advent. For more information, please call Fr. Alexander Goussetis at 725-1861 or email at FRALEXG@comcast.net. Advent Prayer Chain November 15-December 25 Name Parish Family Parish Family From Dates To Person A Agadis Billis Person B Blain Drogaris Person C Drybred Fotis “ “ Prayer for others is very beneficial to the person himself who prays: it purifies the heart, strengthens faith and hope in God, and arouses love for God and our neighbor. St. John of Kronstadt You are fellow travelers, God-bearers and temple-bearers, Christ-bearers. St. Ignatius of Antioch Not only should we ourselves, in accordance with God's will, pray unceasingly in the name of Jesus Christ, but we are bound to reveal it and teach it to others, to everyone in general, religious and secular, learned and simple, men and women and children, and to inspire them all with zeal for prayer unceasing. St. Gregory Palamas When you are struck by other people's suffering, so that you are induced to pray for them, pray to God to have mercy upon them, and to forgive them their sins - that is, implore God with tears to pardon them; likewise pray for the salvation of others as you would pray for your own salvation. St. John of Kronstadt. www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 7 B a z a a r P r e pa rat i o n s www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 8 G OYA C r i s p u s At t u c k s / P r e s c h o o l T r i p & Ho p e & J OY Fa l l Ev e n t www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 9 Dau g h t e r s o f P e n e l o p e / A H E PA AHEPA THE SEVENTH GREEK TAVERNA NITE AFFAIR Saturday, November 29, 2014 6:30 PM—MIDNIGHT Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Philoptochos Hall FEATURING…..GREEK DANCING MUSIC Reading’s LEO MARKANTONIS 6:30-8:00 PM—FISH PLAKI…BYOB SET-UPS 7:30 PM TO 11:30 PM DANCING 13 YEARS AND UP…$25.00 AGES 5 TO 12…..$10.00 AGES 4 and under FREE Charity Auction presented by the Daughters of Penelope COME AND ENJOY THIS THANKSGIVING EVENT OF FAMILY FUN, GOOD FOOD AND DANCING Proceeds benefit various ahepa & Daughters of Penelope charities FOR TICKETS CALL: Dr. Nikitas Zervanos (392-5402), Nick Gianopoulos (569-1092), Gus Seiss (464-0969) Dr. George Yelagotes (626-4344), Kosta Kambouroglos (299-3018), Chris Lascarides (538-3920) www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November PAGE 10 Preschool www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 11 Ka l an da KALANDA UPDATE! Beginning on Sunday, November 16, through Sunday, December 14, there will be Sign-Up sheets for those wish to have the Kalanda sung in their homes this year. These sheets will be on tables in the breezeway. On your way in or out of the Coffee “Fellowship, please stop by and let us know your wishes. If it is more convenient, please call the Church Office , 394-1735, or Demetria Keares Baker, 464-2613, to assure that carolers will be visiting your home. After this final Sunday of “registration”, we will begin assembling lists according to the neighborhoods of those who expressed their wish for Kalanda singers either through “signing up” or calling. We will then be assigning caroling groups to these lists. ΚΑΛΑΝΤΑ Την Κυριακή 16 Νοεμβρίου μέχρι την Κυριακή 14 Δεκεμβρίου κατά την διάρκεια του καφέ θ’ αρχίσουμε τις εγγραφές για όσους επιθυμούν να έχουν τα Κάλαντα στο σπίτι τους αυτό το έτος. Οι λίστες για να δήλωσετε τα όνομάτα σας θα βρίσκονται στον διάδρομο προς την Αίθουσα Φιλοπτώχου. Παρακαλούμε όπως σταματήσετε και εγγραφείτε στη λίστα αν επιθυμείτε αυτή η παράδοση να συνεχιστεί στο σπίτι σας. Αν σας είναι πιο εύκολο, μπορείτε επίσης να επικοινωνήσετε με το γραφείο της εκκλησίας, στο αριθμό 394-1735, ή με την Δημήτρια Kιάρη Μπέικερ, στον αριθμό 464-2613, για να επιβεβαιώσετε ότι θέλετε τους τραγουδιστές να έρθουν στο σπίτι σας. Μετά από την τελευταία Κυριακή των Please understand that if you have not εγγραφών, θα αρχίσει η συναρμολόγηση των signed or called, you will not be visited by ονομάτων σύμφωνα με τις περιοχές. Kalanda singers. The Kalanda will be sung Παρακαλούμε να κατανοήσετε ότι αν δεν on Sunday, December 28. έχετε γράψει το όνομά σας στις λίστες ή εποικοινωνήσει με το γραφείο της εκκλησίας οι τραγουδιστές δεν θα επισκεφθούν το σπίτι We are always in need of additional σας. Τα Κάλαντα θα γίνουν την Κυριακή 28 singers, so please call the Church Office if Δεκεμβρίου. you would like to add your vocal chords to this joyous endeavor. Remember: if you want Εχουμε πάντα την ανάγκη για επιπλέον this lovely New Year Tradition to continue in τραγουδιστές , γι 'αυτό παρακαλούμε αν your home; you have to let us know! επιθυμείτε να συμμετάσχετε σε αυτή την εύθυμη και χαρμόσυνη μουσική εμπειρία με μια από τις ομάδες να μας πληροφορήσετε . Sincerely~ Μην Ξεχάσετε! Αν θέλετε αυτή η υπέροχη παράδοση του νέου έτους να συνεχιστεί στο The Kalanda Committee σπίτι σας, θα πρέπει να μας ενημερώσετε! Ειλικρινώς, H Επιτροπή «Κάλαντα» www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 12 O R AT O R I C A L F E S T I VA L Why are the martyrs of the Church characterized as great athletes? By Alexander Proithis One degree of extra effort is the difference between a gold medal and nothing at all. One extra push to the finish is what separates the good from the great. This all became a reality for me as my family and I were visiting London during the Summer 2012 Olympic Games. Seeing the torchbearer proudly carrying the Olympic flame as we passed by the Olympic Village made me think about how much work and sacrifice was required by the athletes that I would soon be seeing right before my eyes. Why would they spend so much of their lives training for an opportunity that only comes around once every four years? The answer, I believe, must be a true passion. In his First Letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul writes, “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we for an imperishable.” St. Paul compares Christians to athletes. They train. They work to the utmost. They discipline their bodies. But there are two very crucial distinctions between them. The ancient Olympians competed for a wreath. The modern Olympians compete for a medal. The prize for a Christian winning his spiritual battle, however, is eternity with God. A perfect example of a great athlete of Christ was the Holy Great Martyr Saint George. An incredible warrior, Saint George was tortured during his life, yet, survived unscathed in body and mind, and converted many people along the way because of his very deep rooted trust in God. Just like Olympians, no two martyrs have the exact same story. The difference is, all martyrs have one common thread… an unquenchable love for God. Not one of the martyrs was born a saint. They had to work towards it each day, and make a conscious decision to improve themselves and their relationship with God all the time. The same holds true for the Olympian who trains himself every day to reach perfection in his game. All we have to do is follow in the footsteps of these spiritual champions. It sounds so simple but as I know too well myself, it is anything but easy. How can a 15 year old connect with the life of martyr? It is very difficult to see anything in common between a teenager and a revered saint of the church. It’s comforting to know that all of these saints were once imperfect teenagers just like me. God is not asking us to be perfect, he just wants us to try our best to follow his will and repent. The key though is that the saints did not merely preach the words of the Lord, they lived them. Christianity is not a spectator sport. We cannot let others be good for us and expect to be off the hook. Even though my Yiayia very rarely misses any services, her near perfect attendance record does not gain me a free pass to heaven. Martyrs as well as Olympians can teach us a valuable life lesson. We all need to be athletes that are not just running the race to communion on Sundays; rather we need to prepare for it every day with continuous exercise of our bodies and souls with fasting and prayer. We must train our spiritual skills each day, hoping that God will deem us worthy in the end to be on the winner’s podium of eternal life. Whether you are training for the greatest sports event of a lifetime, or training for your salvation, to be a champion one must train like a champion. Or in this case, to be a spiritual champion, one must train like a saint. www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 13 S p i r i t ua l Me s s ag e i n G r e e k Ένα θαύμα του Αγίου Νεκταρίου στην Ρουμανία Σε ένα χωριό της Ρουμανίας δεν υπήρχε ιερέας, και οι κάτοικοι πήγαιναν συχνά στον Πατριάρχη με το αίτημα, την πλήρωση της κενής θέσης. Όμως ο Πατριάρχης δεν είχε την δυνατότητα να ικανοποιήσει το αίτημα των ανθρώπων. Πήγαιναν και ξαναπήγαιναν οι κάτοικοι, αλλά, τίποτε ο Πατριάρχης τους έλεγε τα ίδια λόγια, ότι δεν έχω ιερέα να σας στείλω στο χωριό. Εν τω μεταξύ άλλοι πέθαιναν αδιάβαστοι, άλλοι είχαν γυναίκες και παιδιά χωρίς γάμο, τα παιδιά και οι μεγάλοι ήταν αβάπτιστοι. Μια μέρα σταμάτησε έξω από τον Ναό ένα αυτοκίνητο και κατέβηκε ένας ιερέας όλο το χωριό ανάστατο ήρθε παπάς φώναζαν. Πήγαν εκεί οι κάτοικοι, τον καλωσόρισαν και του είπαν: πως ήρθες στο χωρίο αφού ο πατριάρχης μας είχε πει ότι δεν έχει παπά να μας στείλει; Τότε ο ιερέας τους είπε αυτό δεν θέλατε; δεν θέλατε ιερέα; Να ήρθα. Όλο το χωριό χάρηκε στην παρουσία του νέου ιερέα. Ο Ιερέας άρχισε αμέσως δουλειά πήγε σε όλους τους τάφους και διάβαζε την εξόδιο ακολουθία, βάπτισε και πάντρεψε όλους στο χωριό λειτουργούσε τους κοινωνούσε. Μια μέρα καλεί του χωρικούς και τους λέγει ότι: θα φύγω τελείωσε η αποστολή μου. Τότε το χωριό αναστατώθηκε, τώρα που ήρθε θα φύγεις; Όμως ο ιερέας δεν άκουγε τους κατοίκους και ενέμενε στην απόφασή του. Αφού οι χωρικοί κατάλαβαν ότι δεν γινόταν τίποτε τον ευχαρίστησαν για την προσφορά του και τον κατευόδωσαν. Μετά από μέρες πήγαν στον Πατριάρχη να τον ευχαριστήσουν που τους έστειλε παπά και να του πουν όταν μπορέσει να τους ξαναστείλει κάποιον ιερέα, αλλά ο πατριάρχης δεν ήξερε τίποτε. Τους είπε ότι εγώ δεν έστειλα κανέναν παπά γιατί δεν έχω, όμως περιμένετε μήπως ο πρωτοσύγκελος, σας έστειλε κάποιον για να σας εξ υπηρετήσει. Πήρε τηλέφωνο τον πρωτοσύγκελο αλλά ούτε αυτός είχε στείλει κανέναν. Ο πατριάρχης τους είπε τι έκανε αυτός ο ιερέας στην ενορία; οι χωρικοί είπαν μας πάντρεψε, μας βάπτισε, μας έκανε τις κηδείες των γονέων, μας έκανε ότι κάνει ένας παπάς. Καλά είπε ο πατριάρχης δεν σας έδινε χαρτιά δεν έγραφε τα μυστήρια; -βεβαίως είπαν οι χωρικοί μας έδινε χαρτιά και τα καταχώρισε στα βιβλία του Ναού.- δεν είδατε τι έγραφε; και πως υπέγραφε με τι όνομα; όλα τα στοιχεία δέσποτα τα έγραφε στα ρουμανικά πολλά γράμματα δεν ξέρουμε γιατί την υπογραφή την έβαζε σε άλλη γλώσσα που δεν έχουμε ξαναδεί. Ο πατριάρχης παρακάλεσε να πάνε να φέρουν τα βιβλία για να δει ποιος ήταν αυτός ο κληρικός. Όταν του πήγαν τα βιβλία ο πατριάρχης έμεινε έκθαμβος δεν πίστευε στα μάτια του όντως όλα τα στοιχεία ήταν γραμμένα στα ρουμανικά ενώ το όνομα του ήταν γραμμένο στα Ελληνικά με το όνομα της υπογραφής Νεκτάριος επίσκοπος Πενταπόλεως. www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 14 N e w s an d Ev e n t s i n G r e e k www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 15 Pa r i s h C o u n c i l Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Parish Council Minutes September 16, 2014 Opening Prayer: The September 16, 2014 meeting of the Parish Council began at 7:40 PM with an opening prayer by Fr. Alexander Goussetis. President Maria Querry brought the meeting to order at 7:41 PM. Minutes of Last Meeting: The minutes of the August 26, 2014 meeting were reviewed. A motion was made by John Stauffer to approve the minutes. James Voulopos seconded the approval. They were approved unanimously. Sharing the Faith: Father Alexander Goussetis shared an article on Domestic Violence Financial Report: Treasurer, George Soukas, reported the following finances for the month of August 2014: 2014 Actual 2014 Budget Income 492,381 515,476 Expenses 507,609 521,513 Decrease In Fund Balance -15,228 -6,037 Stewardship is $41,000 less than this time last year. Due to a severe winter, the maintenance expenses were higher than budgeted. Committee Reports Bazaar: David Gammache reported on behalf of Kosta Kontanis: The bazaar committee would like to purchase a new doughnut fryer. The existing fryer is 30 years old and parts are not available if it requires maintenance. Since the funds are not budgeted for this item, we will defer the carpet/tile project for early 2015. This will keep us within our budget. A motion was made to postpone the carpet/tile renovation until spring 2015 to purchase the doughnut fryer by George Soukas and seconded by Nicholas Veronis. The motion was approved unanimously. Finance: There was no report for Finance. Hellenic Culture: Peter Billis reported the following for the Hellenic Culture committee: The Apokriatiko dance will be held on Feb. 14, 2015. Parish Activities: There was no report for Parish Activities. Personnel: Father Alex reported that the committee has completed the Annual Performance Evaluation form. The evaluation is in two parts. Part one is a self-evaluation worksheet. The second part is the evaluation performance. The committee’s goal is to complete the performance evaluation in January. The goal is to use the evaluation as a planning tool to find areas of strengths and improvements. President Maria commended the Personnel Committee on a job well done. Preschool: President Maria reviewed the annual budget report. In addition to being a faith based preschool, we are also implementing Pennsylvania Core Standards for early childhood to help prepare preschoolers for kindergarten. We presently have 9 students this year. Teena Blain is head teacher. There is discussion to open enrollment to the community. Property: David Gammache reported the following: Bazaar preparations have begun Inspection was performed by the Lancaster City Fire Marshall Two sets of storm windows and one broken screen were replaced All storm windows and screens were removed and washed New freezers were ordered and received for bazaar New commercial vacuum cleaner was purchased New gas contract was signed with Rhodes Energy David would like to have a presentation at our next meeting from the two companies that are being considered for the carpet and tile replacement in the sanctuary. He would like to request that we start the October meeting thirty minutes earlier to allow for these presentations. This was approved and the October 21st meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. Service and Outreach: Joanne Martin reported the following: The Lucky Girls dinner fundraiser will be held at Acorn Farms from 5:00 to 10:00 PM on Oct. 25, 2014. Cost is $30 for ages 11 and up and $15 for ages 10 and under. Tickets purchased at the door will be $35.00. Proceeds will go towards helping the girl’s orphanage in Calcutta. The goal is to raise $10,000. Stewardship: Nicholas Veronis reported the following on stewardship: On October 19th, Tena Blain will be the guest speaker for stewardship. The goal is to increase the Pacesetter category. Quarterly stewardship statements were also sent out. Technology: There was no report for Technology Gyrofest: Kim Krawizcki presented a final report on the Gyrofest, with the following highlights: Tickets were distributed to 357 families, and 593 email addresses were collected at the fest. Acknowledgement to our sponsors- thank-you cards will be sent by the end of September. Having Joe Calhoun present the weather was a huge draw. Total platters served were 3,218. Gross Income: $53,176.09, Gross Expenses: $22,240.45, Net Income: $30,935.64. Next Year’s Gyrofest will be April 17-18, 2015. Desserts will be baklava & rice pudding along with a frappe station. The committee thanked Kim for all her hard work. The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM with a closing prayer by Father Hector. Respectfully Submitted, Artemis Tsoflias Parish Council Secretary www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 16 Sponsor Page www.annunciationorthodox.org The Annunciator/November 2014 PAGE 17 The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 64 Hershey Avenue Lancaster, Pa 17603 Non-Profit ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lancaster, PA Permit No. 502 PRAISE THE LORD Benefit Concert Sunday, Nov. 23rd Doors open at 5:00 PM Concert Begins at 6:00 PM Christ the Savior Orthodox Church 5501 Old Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA w w w. C T S H B G . o r g ● 7 1 7 - 6 5 2 - 1 8 2 5 Sponsored by the Orthodox Council of Churches of South Central Pennsylvania (OCCSCP) Free -Will Donations Will support IOCC and OCMC
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