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THE EPISTLE ST. DEMETRIOS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
Pastoral Thoughts by Fr. Jim Doukas
April 22909 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, Ohio 2011
HOLY WEEK…A TIME FOR DAILY WORSHIP
As we are approaching Holy Week, I wanted to share with you all a very brief explanation of Holy Week so we can appreciate its awesomeness. In
Celebrate the real reason for the season and fill your child’s, godchild’s, or
grandchild’s Easter Basket at the Catacomb Bookstore!
Choose from our wonderful selection of children’s books, religious jewelry, icons, night lights and more! Come in any Sunday after church make
them a basket filled with the religious meaning of Pascha!
his book A Year of the Lord , Fr. Theodore Stylianopoulos writes the following concerning the most intense Liturgical and Spiritual week of the year:
Holy Week is the most important week of the year because it brings us to the gates of God’s Kingdom. Christ’s voluntary sacrifice on the Cross gives us access to the very presence of God. As we remember the last days of Christ on earth, we relive the great moments of His passion through a continuous liturgical drama. The saving events of the first century once again become realities for us through the hymns, prayers and services of Holy Week. If possible, have a Holy Week Service Book to refer to.
Palm Sunday– we welcome Christ into our lives as King.
Palm Sunday evening through Holy Tuesday evening- we behold Him as the bridegroom of the Church, One who bears a crown of thorns and other marks of suffering, yet One who prepares a paschal bridal chamber for His Bride, the Church.
Holy Wednesday– we are anointed with Holy Oil as soldiers of Christ in preparation for the commemoration of His solemn passion.
Holy Thursday- we gather in the morning around the table of the Lord to celebrate the Last Supper with Him, and in the evening we faithfully follow Him through the reading of the Twelve Gospels to the great moments of His agony in Gethsemane, His arrest, trial, mocking, scourging, march to Golgotha, crucifixion, and death on the Cross.
Holy Friday – we stand in the morning at the foot of the Cross reading the Service of the Hours and keeping a vigil watch at His side; in the afternoon, we witness the descent of Christ’s body from the Cross and His burial in the Epitaphio, a symbolic tomb, and in the evening we gather with both sorrow and joy to sing the Lamentations to Him who is symbolically buried in the Epitaphio and yet whom we perceive by faith to be immortal Life.
Holy Saturday morning- we hold the Service of the First Resurrection anticipating Christ’s victory over death and singing: “Arise O God, and judge the earth, and You shall possess all the nations as Your inheritance.”
Pascha – we celebrate the glorious Resurrection of Christ, the breaking of the bonds of Hades, and the opening of the gates of Heaven, the dawn of the new age of salvation, the fruits of which we again experience through the AGAPE SERVICE as love, peace and joy.
HAVE A BLESSED PASCHA!
The Epistleis the official publication of the
Greek Orthodox Community of St. Demetrios
Phone: (440) 331-2246
Fax: (440) 331-8407
www.saintdemetriosrr.org
Editor : Eleni Papouras-Jenks
Sunday Services: Orthros 8:30 a.m.; Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m.
Publication Deadlines: Weekly Bulletin – Wednesday
Monthly Epistle– The 15th of the preceding month
Fr. James Doukas, Priest………………(Home) 440-899-3257
Eleni Papouras-Jenks, Office Mgr [email protected]
Nick Hillman, Operations Mgr [email protected]
Dale Stalnaker, Webmaster …………[email protected]
PARISH COUNCIL
Manuel P. Glynias,President……………...……216-857-3388
Sophia Tjotjos , Vice President…...……………440-331-4000
Steve Steffas, Secretary………….…….……….440-899-7652
David Grubb, Treasurer …..……………..……. 440-835-2118
Steve Alex, Financial Secretary…………….... 440-835-2348
Lia Augoustidis ………………………………... 440-933-0500
Eugenia Burpulis………..……………………….440-835-8419
Angelo Coutris…………………………………..440-333-3674
Vasiliki Diamantis……………………………….216-541-4797
Linda Glynias…………………………………....440-835-1566
Nikolaos Petousis………………………………..440-808-8783
Byron T. Spooner …...…………………………. 440-333-5013
Greg Kolocouris, Legal Advisor
ST. DEMETRIOS’ TRUST BOARD OF MANAGERS
John Stamatis, Chairman……..…………………440-937-6258
Constantine Corpas……………………………..440-740-1158
Harry Giallourakis……………………………...440-871-2681
Manuel Steffas………………………………….440-871-6362
Crystal Thomas…………………………………440-356-1032
Donna Vassos…………………………...……...440-331-5547
CHURCH ORGANIZATIONS’ CONTACTS
Adult Catechism………..…Tom N. Andrews…440-734-6894
Aesthetics:……………………Elaine Spooner…440-331-7656
Bible Study:……………Evangeline Richards…216-221-3003
Bookstore:…..………….Pres. Goldie Doukas…440-899-3257
Chanter: …………..…….…Jonathon Tartara…440-724-8599
Choir Director :……….……...Bill Matzorkis… 216-496-4230
Youth Choir …………….…..Diane Matzorkis…440-463-3068
Greek School,Principal…...Diamanta Poulos…440-250-0685
Board of Education…... Maria Mougianis…440-835-2888
PTO Presidents……..Matina Salamalekis… 440-250-8877
Shelly Tsigas… 440-356-9191
GOYA, Advisors:….…...John & Betty Poulos…440-899-6317
Student President………………………Paul Poulos
Hellenic Dancers
Senior Group...Eleni Papouras-Jenks…216-965-8131
Junior Group………..Mary Szekely…440-835-5712
JOY (Jr. Orthodox Youth) …...Stacy Loizos….440-799-4846
Κόλλυβα (Memorial Tray)…….Ann Carpadis…440-871-8625
Maria Statheros…216-226-1680
Library Committee :…………..… Andie Titas...440-779-8581
Philoptochos……………………[email protected]
President……………Jeanne C. Paras…440-779-6544
Sunshine Committee………..Elpida Kosmidis…440-779-8959
Sunday School:……………... [email protected]
Principal………..Tina Hericks…216-970-3737
Maggie Steffas…440-871-6362
Spiritual Life Committee/ Theotokos Fellowship
…..Angie Giallourakis… 440-871-2681
Yassou Club…...…………. Mary Pappadakes…440-799-4821
Other Orthodox Orgazanizations
I.O.C.C. ….Pascalis Papouras, U.S. Program Director
410-243-9820 ; [email protected]
O.C.F… Mira Damljanovic, College Program Coordinator for chapters at Baldwin Wallace College, Case Western Reserve Univ., Cleveland State Univ., John Carroll Univ., Tri-C.
440-888-6213 ; [email protected]
St. Mary of Egypt Monastery…Mother Theonymphie …440-473-3885
Zoe House,5939 State Rd., Parma, OH 44134 ….440-888-9990
Speaking of Stewardship…3
We welcome new members:
John & Jennifer Dialinos
Ioannis & Asimoula Gountis
Emanuel Mathiellis
Greek Festival – June 16-19, 2011 Cooking Schedule
April 4 -6 Pastitsio / Παστίτσιο
April 11-12 Moussaka /Μουσσακάς
Thanks to all our hard-working volunteers who have already prepared all the dolmades and souzoukakia!
Efharisto! A big thanks to all who made Lenten donations in March:
~Philoptochos, Choir, Daughters of Penelope, and Bible Study for hosting the Lenten meals in March
~Maria Theodore, Allen Arabian, Popi Kalbouridis & Daphne Theofylaktos, Kathy Douzos and Ann Petrakis for decorating the Panagia’s icon for the Salutations. Also the readers of the Aspile Eleni Nikolakis, George Rafailedes Jr., Maria Mougianis and Mary Matzorkis.
~The Anonymous donor of the daffodils on Holy Cross Sunday
We are still looking for volunteers to:
1. Donate the chocolate for the children at Agape
2. Read Gospel in various foreign languages for Agape
Lenten “Spare Change” Fundraiser
Collect your spare change all thru Lent and return it to the church before Easter on April 24 in our designated containers. Pick up a collection cup at thePangari any Sunday or the church office on weekdays. This fundraiser is sponsored by St. Demetrios GOYA but all proceeds will go to St. Demetrios Church
“Spring Cleaning” Paper Recycling Drive
Bring your paper products to be recycled when you come to church for any Lenten or Holy Week service to
reach our goal of 2-4 tons of paper by Pascha!
We also gratefully acknowledge the Memorial Donations to St. Demetrios Church* received in loving memory of:
Vi Delaney: Pete & Anna Samarellis, K. Eleftheriou
Dan Pournaras: John L. Power
Emanuel Sarantos: James & Mary Spillson
*These donations are to the St. Demetrios General Fund and do not include any grateful accepted by Philoptochos, Trust Fund, etc.
It’s never too late to turn in your pledge form and support
our Church’s mission! 2011
Pledge forms can be found in the
Narthex or church office.
Dying Red Eggs
On Holy Thursday (April 21 ) we will need 12 volunteers to help prepare the red eggs for the Anastasi service. If
you are available to help dye eggs (9 a.m.) or tie ribbons, (11 a.m.) please contact Toula Pyros
at 440-333-5560.
GREEK FESTIVAL 2011 VOLUNTEER FORM
We urge all our parishioners to complete the form below, indicating the times and areas for which you are available and interested in working. Please return this form to the church office.
NAME________________________________________
PHONE________________________________________
EMAIL___________________________________________
I would like to assist in the following area(s):
___Drive thru ___church tours
___ Kitchen-salads ___Souvlakia/Gyro booth
___Kitchen – chef ___ Inside/outside bars
___Cleaning vegetables ___Pastries
___Busing tables ___Pop
___Coffee ___Taverna
____Food Line (servers) ___Food Line (Runners)
___Setup of Booths
I’m available on the following days/times (check all that apply)
Thu., June 16: ___11 a.m.-3 p.m. ___3-7 p.m.___7-10 p.m.
Fri., June 17:___11 a.m.-3 p.m. ___3-7 p.m.___7-11 p.m.
Sat., June 18:___11 a.m.-3 p.m. ___3-7 p.m.___7-11 p.m.
Sun., June 19:___11 a.m.-3 p.m. ___3-7 p.m.___7-10 p.m.
P a r i s h N e w s4
OUR NEWEST LITTLE ANGELS
Athanasios Joseph,son of Patrick & Eleni Neuhoff, and grandson of Kathy Douzos, was born on March 7, 2011.
Demetrios, son of Jason & Cindy Genin, and grandson of Fr. Dean & Presvytera Daisy Dimon, was born on March 14, 2011.
THOSE THAT HAVE PUT ON CHRIST
Emanuel Alex Markou, son of Alex and Maria, was baptized on March 12, 2011. His sponsor is Deanna Trihas of Annunciation Church, Cleveland.
Demetrios Coutris, son of Michael and Jamie, was baptized on March 13, 2011. His ‘nono’ is Pandelis Maroulis of Annunciation Church, Cleveland.
Vasilios “Liam” Newton, son of Doug and Jennifer, was baptized on March 20, 2011. His ‘nona’ is Merita Kotezski of St. Clement of Ohrid Orthodox Church, Avon.
ENGAGED TO BE MARRIED
Olga Asimou , daughter of George & Christina, with George Vassilakisof Annunciation Church. The couple is planning a 2012 wedding.
2011 Lenten Lectures
This year’s theme for the Lenten Lectures was The Beatitudes,
Below is a short overview of our first three speakers:
Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.
Mother Anna of Monastery Marcha spoke on purity and encouraged those present that even if they harbor ill will or anger toward another person, they can purify their hearts by going to make it right with that person and asking for forgiveness. She advised, “don’t let the devil take your heart from God” through worldly distractions .
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the land.
Fr. Jim spoke on the concept of meekness, which contrary to its American connotation of ‘weakness,’ in Greek means soft-hearted and peaceful . His talk was followed by a slideshow presentation on the Holy Land by Bette Nutt and friend who were part of the Bible Study group who went last fall.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Stacy Loejos, OCMC Missionary to Africa last summer, spoke on mercy in a very illustrative way, by speaking on the two medical mission trips she attended in 2010 to Uganda (through OCMC) and to Guatemala, through another agency.
As we ponder the above and look forward to the final Lenten Lectures before Holy Pascha, let us also consider the opposite:
THE DEVIL’S BEATITUDES
“Blessed” are they who are too tired and busy to assemble with the Church on Sunday, for they are my best workers.
“Blessed” are they who are bored with the minister’s mannerisms and mistakes, for they get nothing out of the sermon.
“Blessed” is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church, for he is important to me.
“Blessed” are they who do not meet in church on Sunday, for they cause the world to say, ‘The Church is failing.’
“Blessed” are they who are easily offended, for they get angry and quit.
“Blessed” are they who do not give toward God’s work and mission, for they are my helpers.
“Blessed” are the trouble-makers, for they shall be called children of the devil.
“Blessed” is he who professes to love God but hates his brother, for he will be with me forever.
“Blessed” is he who has no time to pray, for he shall be easy prey for me.
We welcome Fr. Spiro Kehayes, recently of St. John the Divine Church in Wheeling, WV, who will be our assistant priest on Sundays and during all of Holy Week. Please introduce yourselves and make him feel welcome in our parish!
Theotokos Fellowship will resume book discussion on Wed., May 4at 7pm for 5 weeks, ending June 8.
Library Jottings
We are in the midst of Lent with Easter to be celebrated on April 24th. Our St. Demetrios Library has many books and videos to aid and inform you and to answer your questions regarding fasting, Holy Week, Easter and of course the life and passion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Some of the books available are: “The Lenten Kitchen," "A Lenten Cookbook for Orthodox Christians"--an excellent guide for fasting and cooking- and "12 Sermons on the Resurrection" by Charles Spurgeon. Videos available are: "Fasting--a Lenten Series," "The Great & Holy Week," "Jesus," "Pascha--The Resurrection of Christ," "The Passion of the Christ," and “Christos Anesti-part 1". Books, VCRs and DVDs for children and teens are also available. These books and videos are on display on tables in the library as well as on various book shelves. The St. Demetrios Library Staff wishes to extend our greetings to all parishioners for a Happy and Blessed Easter ---“Christos Anesti". - Library Committee
ASLEEP IN THE LORD
We extend our condolences to Antonios Paras on the loss of his brother-in-law. Also to Helen Drapos on the loss of her niece.
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Χαιρε, Ο Χαιρε, Ελευθεριά! ~ Hail, Hail Liberty! Last month, Greek communities around the world celebrated the Independence of the Greek Orthodox people from under the Muslim Turks. St. Demetrios parishioners had two chances to commemorate this date which is both the religious holiday of
Annunciation and national Greek Independence, at our Greek School’s program and at the Greek Independence Day Parade…
Parade photos courtesy of Eleni Papouras-Jenks and Angie Rokas
(above) St. Demetrios Balourdas Greek School students reciting poetry about the Annunciation, in front of the tableaux, and about Greek Independence
(left) The entire student body procession
Greek School photos courtesy of Estelle Callas
(left) Paul Poulos (far right) represents St. Demetrios in the Parade’s Color Guard; (above) Dancers display our banner; (right) St. Demetrios Choir members Angelia Szekely & Mary Matzorkis lead the national anthems; (below) Senior Dancers
St. Demetrios Philoptochos Mother’s Day Celebration
Honor your mother, grandmother, godmother, sister, aunt or even a special friend with a gift to Philoptochos.Your donation will enable us to continue our work of charitable giving to individuals and families in need, area food banks, shelters for the homeless, and countless research efforts in the battle against cancer and other catastrophic diseases. So join us in our Mother’s Day Celebration by honoring someone you love with a gift to Philoptochos.On Mother’s Day, Sunday May 8th, 2011 a printed program will be distributed in Church honoring all individuals remembered by loved ones both living and deceased and a special memorial service honoring the beloved Mothers of our community will also take place.A minimum donation of $5 for each honoree listed, please.
Enclosed is my gift of $_____________________________.Please Print:Name_________________________________________________________
Phone ________________________________email___________________
In Honor ofNames of Honoree(s)_____________________________________________________
In Loving Memory +Names of Honoree(s)_____________________________________________________
If you have additional names please list them on the back making sure to acknowledge living or deceased. Please enclose your donation for each name and make one check payable to St. Demetrios Philoptochos Society, 22909 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116. Due to printing deadlines all names must be received by May 4, 2011. Thank You!
6 Focus on PhiloptochosAs we prepare ourselves for Pascha, I want to thank everyone in our St. Demetrios Community again for their generosity in the past months. Due to your continued support, we are able to stock the shelves of our Food Pantry for those who come to our doors looking for food. Greeks and food are always a good mix, and somehow I knew a Food Pantry would work for us. We were also able to call upon our Membership to help serve a last minute meal for the first Lenten Lecture. It was the second year that we were the first group to serve, and I am glad we were able to help out.
In 2010, the National Philoptochos distributed $1,373,333, and part of our chapter’s yearly commitments goes into that. That money goes to such wonderful causes like St. Basil’s, Autism Assistance Fund, Cancer Fund, UNICEF, IOCC, the Ecumenical Patriarchate and many more. For a complete list, see me, or go to www.philoptochos.orgwhere you will also find the details of many ongoing projects . We also have two National Board members in our community that you may talk to at any time, Crystal Thomas and Barb Pasalis. Please look for details on the National website regarding the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy and donate toward this charitable mission which is beacon of shining light to benefit all.
We are still working on our cookbook, but have unfortunately run into some roadblocks and it will not be ready in time for our 2011 Festival . We hope to start a pre-sale though with the books to be available in the fall with our Holiday Bake sale! Please still submit your recipes to us with your family stories!
Our Welfare committee will send out Easter plants during Holy Week to our Shut-in Parishioners. If you know of someone who should be visited, please make sure that the office has their name(s). If you would like to help with the delivery and visits, call Crystal Thomas (440-356-1032.)
Finally, I want to mention that in May we will be having Elections for new Board Members and Officers, and we have several openings. This is a perfect opportunity for many of you to step-up in a different way for our Community! Our Membership has grown in the past two years and I know that many of you have been looking for a chance to do something different with Philoptochos. This is your chance! We will have a General Meeting with dinner out (location TBA) on Mon., May 9.. This dinner will also include our Elections. If you think you may be interested, please talk to me. Remember that when we work together the job is small and more fun; when we are alone the job is large and lonely. - Kalo Pascha Everyone, Jeanne Paras
Hosted by the Philoptochos Chapters of
All Saints- Canonsburg
Dormition of Theotokos-Aliquippa
Holy Cross- Mt. Lebanon
Holy Trinity- Ambridge
Benefits the Philoptochos Social Service Fund and the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute’s
Melanoma Program.
Contact Elaine Andronas at 724-747-9684 to RSVP by April 15.
We encourage men to attend and hats to be worn!
Nick Hillman,
Activities Director
Zapis Activity CenterDATESTIMEDAYACTIVITY
In Session9 p.m.Mon.Men’s Basketball*
Mar 10-Apr 147 – 9 p.m.Thu.GOYA Open Gym*
In session1-3 p.m. Sat.Kids’ (5-12) Basketball*
School year11:30 a.m.Sun.Kids’ Open Play*
Year round9:30 am-12 pM-FOpen Walk*
In session8:10 a.m.Tue/ FriExercise with Sophia
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*PLEASE NOTE: Anyone wishing to take part in anyevents scheduled in the Zapis Activity Center MUST be a member in Good Standing of St. Demetrios Church for the given calendar year. This includes all adult participants/ coaches over the age of 18, as well the parents of all children under the age of 18.
AHEPA & Daughters of Penelope
Thomas A. Stamatis Chapter # 389 & Daughters of Penelope, Icarus Chapter #321
Offering four $500 "Dr. John G. Janas Memorial Scholarships.” Graduating high school seniors whose parents are members in good standing of AHEPA/ Daughters of Penelope orSt. Demetrios Church are eligible to apply. Applications available in the church office. Recipients must be present to accept award on Sun., May 15 at St. Demetrios Church. Submission deadline: April 9, 2011.
AHEPA Buckeye District 11
Available to students entering college or currently in undergraduate studies, whose families are active members of AHEPA or Daughters of Penelope for at least 3 years. Selected on basis of scholastic achievement and financial need. Applications available in the church office. Submission deadline: Apr. 15, 2011
John M. Manos Chapter #36
Available to graduating northeast Ohio high school seniors of Greek descent with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Submission deadline is May 1, 2011.
Dean Nakis Memorial Scholarship
Available to students entering college or continuing undergrad studies, whose parents are active members of a Greek Orthodox Church in Northeast Ohio. Recipients will be selected on scholastic achievement and financial need. Applications available in the church office. Submission deadline: May 2, 2011.
Anyone requesting a letter of recommendation from Fr. Jim should contact him at least 10 days priorto the due date.
Hellenic College/Holy Cross
“Come & See” Scholarship for HC/HC in Brookline, Mass., offers 80% off of tuition for all incoming students to both schools (undergrad and seminary), male or female, for the 2011-12 school year. This scholarship will follow the student through their entire 4-year course of study provided they maintain a 3.0 GPA and adhere to the code of conduct. Each student must go through the normal admission process and be accepted in order to receive it.
Chrysostom Scholarship Operating in conjunction with the St. JohnChrysostom Oratorical Festival, HC/HC offers this to each 1st Place speaker from each parishthat participates.
For more information, contact Gregory Floor, Director of Admissions of HC/HC at [email protected] at 617-850-1285. To download the terms and conditions of either scholarship go to: http://hellenic.hchc.edu/hellenic/admissions/new-scholarships-established.html.
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese
George & Naouma (Gioule) Gioles Scholarshipand theKatinaJohn Malta Scholarshipavailable to undergraduate students whose families exhibit a true financial need.
Paleologos Graduate Scholarshipwhich is awarded for graduate work of a non-theological nature.
The Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship Fund for graduates of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology who are planning to continue their studies.
Complete instructions and applications, are available at http://www.goarch.org/archdiocese/administration/chancellor/scholarships The deadline for applying for all is April 15, 2011.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Former Parishioner is MO State Wrestling Champ
Matthew Lemanowicz, former member of St. Demetrios and resident of Strongsville, is a third-year varsity wrestler at Lee's Summit West High
School in Missouri. Matthew, son of Georgeanne and Jack Lemanowicz and grandson of Evangeline and David Richards, had an outstanding year finishing Third in the Missouri State Wrestling Championships at Missouri University on February 19. Matt wrestled at 140 lbs. and had a record for the year of 49 - 4. The State of Missouri has also honored him as an Academic All American for 2011 due to his 4.3 GPA.
Celebrate Youth!Celebrate Youth!Celebrate Youth!Celebrate Youth!8
Greek School
Sunday School & Youth Choir
Sun., April 3- the local round of the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival
Sat., April 9 – Regional Oratorical Festival, at Annunciation Church, Cleveland.
Fri., April 22 – Holy Friday Youth Retreat (see flyer on p. 9)
The Youth Choir will chant the Divine Liturgy on Sundays, April 10 and May 8. Rehearsals will take place on Sundays, April 3 and May 1, after Sunday School and just before the GOYA meeting, in the chapel.
Thanks to our teachers & students for putting on another lovely program for March 25th and also to the PTO for hosting the refreshments after. (See photos on p. 5)
Please note, Greek School will be on break during Holy Week (April 19 & 21.) We will resume on Tue., April 26.
Hellenic Dancers
Congratulations to all the dancers who performed at the Greek Independence Day Parade on March 26 in Tremont. (see photos on p. 5.)
Open enrollment is taking place now through the end of this month for both the Kyklonas Dancers(ages 13 & up) and theKymata Dancers(ages 7-12). New members who reached the minimum age for their given group as of Jan. 2011, can join now to be eligible to perform at our Greek Festival (June 16-19.) Please note that we will NOT accept any new dancers after April 30.
Rehearsal dates in April will be announced via e-mail / Facebook, so make sure your contact info is given to Eleni Papouras-Jenks ([email protected]) or to Mary Szekely ([email protected])
J.O.Y. & G.O.Y.A.
Fri., April 15 - JOY & GOYA Palm Folding
Fri., April 22 - Holy Friday Youth Retreat (see flyer on p. 9)
ATTENTION: GRADUATES
All those who will be graduating this spring from high school, college or post-graduate studies are asked to
send in their bio (name of school, activities, future plans)
and a photo for the annual June Graduation Issue of The
Epistle.
Deadline for submission of all materials is April 30.
Myrrhbearers for Holy Friday
Girls, ages 6-11, who wish to be myrrh bearers at the Lamentations & Epitaphioprocession on Good Friday, April 22, should contact Koula Kadras at 216-570-9901 to sign up and get practice details. Girls should have their own all-white dress and a small white basket; flower petals will be provided.
GOYA members representing St. Demetrios at the Volleyball tournament in Akron last month. Photo courtesy of Andrea Giavroutas
GOYA Dance Friday, April 29
Hosted by the GOYA of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 2000 Tower Blvd.,
Lorain
7:30 p.m. – Midnight
Short Prayer service followed by dancing to live Greek
music & food.
Hospitality Room for adults
$10/person
Call 440-960-2992 to RSVP by April 22.
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Join us for a SpecialJoin us for a SpecialJoin us for a SpecialJoin us for a Special
Holy Friday Youth RetreatHoly Friday Youth RetreatHoly Friday Youth RetreatHoly Friday Youth RetreatAn important learning experience for all: the theology, symbols,
and hymns of Holy Friday and Holy Week.
Friday, April 22 , 11 a.m. Friday, April 22 , 11 a.m. Friday, April 22 , 11 a.m. Friday, April 22 , 11 a.m. –––– 3:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.Followed by the Taking Down from the Cross Service
(Apokathilosis)
Holy Friday Retreat REGISTRATION FORMHoly Friday Retreat REGISTRATION FORMHoly Friday Retreat REGISTRATION FORMHoly Friday Retreat REGISTRATION FORM
Yes, my family plans to attend the Retreat on Fri., April 22, from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Apokathilosis service. Check –in at 10:45 a.m.
Family Name_________________________________________________________
Home Phone_____________________ Cell Phone__________________________
Names of students (Grades 1 thru 12) who will attend:
1.____________________________ Age: _______
2._____________________________Age:________
3._____________________________Age:________
4._____________________________Age:________
We need adult & GOYA volunteers. If you plan to attend and would like to help, please indicate where you’d like to be assigned:
___ Help with Registration in the morning, 10:45 am.
____Organize and serve Lunch
____Volunteer for one of the stations, (materials will be provided)
____Volunteer for general help with the children throughout the day.
Please return this form by Friday, April 8th ( so we can plan for lunch and supplies) to the Church office, the Sunday School office, or mail to Maggie Steffas, 1998 Reed’s Court Trail, Westlake ,Ohio 44145.
There is no charge, but donations of food and cash will be appreciated!
The Language of IconsLong before mass literacy was taken for granted, Christian missionaries and clergy had to rely on iconography to tell the stories of the Bible and the saints. But even today, we can learn much from icons as to how to be faithful Christians and good stewards…
THE ENTRY OF CHRIST INTO JERUSALEM (Palm Sunday, April 17, 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy; 7:00 p.m. Bridegroom vesper service.)
This icon brings us to the moment of glory, coming at the close of Great Lent, at which time we receive a preview of the Paschal joy- the entry of Christ into Jerusalem is a celebration of triumph!
In the icon, our attention is focused on Christ, whom the people of Jerusalem have come out to greet as Lord. Children can be seen in the bottom right hand corner representing the Biblical reference: “Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings you have fashioned praise”(Psalm 8:3.) In the Palm Sunday Vespers we sing: “Wherefore, like babes, rejoice, carrying branches in your hands, and praise Him, singing ‘Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He Who comes, the King of Israel.’”
We see Christ’s journey to His voluntary passion and death. At the same time, it gives us a preview of His installation in the Kingdom of His glory, the confirmation of the resurrection of all into the Heavenly Church.
In remembrance of our Lord’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the priest distributes palms, shaped in the sign of the cross, to the faithful attending the Divine Liturgy. The palms are a sign of victory. Taking up the palm cross, we must follow the Lord into the coming days of His passions. Entering Holy Week, we are stirred emotionally: we encounter the moment of betrayal; we partake of the Last Supper; we deplore the arrest, scourging and mocking of Jesus; agonize at the Crucifixion of the Lord; lament at the Tomb; and celebrate the glorious Resurrection! It is a reaffirmation of our baptism, where we die with Christ and share in His Resurrection.
Stewardship is the means by which we express our Orthodox Christian faith by bearing the cross with Christ. Our whole life is centered in Him as we commit ourselves from today to the last breath we take, as members of the earthly Church. Without the Cross, without a commitment to sacrifice, we cannot enter into the joy of Pascha. Our stewardship participation is the Christian reality of love, sacrifice and eternal life! (see Matt. 21:1-9; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-40; John 12:12-18.)
THE CRUCIFIXION (Holy Thursday, April 21, 6:00 p.m.)
The event of the Crucifixion leads us into the greatest expression of the divine mystery of love. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends”(John 15:13.) We contemplate the Crucifixion and approach with awe and amazement God’s awesome condescension. “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Philip. 2:8.) The icon of the Crucifixion depicts God’s great sacrifice. The city is seen in the background, and at the foot of the cross is a dark place representing “the place of the skull,” the tomb of Adam.
All creation was moved by Christ’s death. Holy Scripture reveals that the sun and the moon were darkened at the time of our Lord’s death. Above our Lord’s head was placed the inscription, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” The icon strives to depict the deeper spiritual reality of triumph over death, rather than the human emotions of sadness. Whenever we refer to the Crucifixion we never see it apart from the Resurrection of the Lord. For this reason we sing: “We bow to Your cross, O Lord, and we praise Your holy Resurrection.” Following the examples of the Virgin Mary and John the Evangelist, we are to be present at the foot of the Cross. Orthodox Christian Stewardship expects us to remain faithful and obedient to Christ and His Church. We must confront all situations with faith, love, and patience so that we may persevere and anticipate greater joy in blessings to come. During our life we face manymoments of hardship. The obstacles before us test our faith. We too, often, have a cross to bear. We become like one of the two thieves crucified with our Lord: either we are impatient and demanding, or we remain faithful and obedient to God and His teachings. The faithful Steward is wise and patient, awaiting His guidance and instruction. The Cross of our Lord is testimony to the courage and strength we too must possess as we “…take up our cross and follow”Christ. (See Matt. 27:32-44; Mark 15:21-32; Luke 23:26-43; John 19: 17-37.)
THE EPITAPHIOS ICON (Good Friday, April 22, Unnailing S ervice at 3:00 p.m.; Lamentations at 7:00 p.m.)
As an act of piety, Joseph of Arimathea seeks permission from Pilate to remove the body of Jesus from the Cross. Hastily, and without adequate preparation of the body, Jesus is wrapped in a linen shroud for His burial. From a hymn on Holy Friday, we sing:
“Woe is me, sweet Jesus, Whom but a while ago, when the sun beheld suspended upon the Cross, it was shrouded in darkness, the earth quaked with fear, and the Veil of the Temple was rent asunder. Albeit, I see that You willingly endure death for my sake. How then shall I array You, my God? How shall I wrap You with linen? Or what dirges shall I chant for Your funeral? Wherefore, O compassionate Lord, I magnify Your Passion, and praise Your Burial with Your Resurrection, crying, Lord, glory to You!”
The death of our Savior was for the salvation of all humankind. In this icon of the Lord’s burial we become the witnesses to the Holy Gospel. The face of Christ bears no bitterness, but rather expresses a feeling of total inner peace and tranquility. The Virgin Mother of God embraces the body of her Son with extreme tenderness. This is her moment of grief and yet, it is also one of acceptance.
St. John the Evangelist leans over the body of Christ, as Joseph of Arimathea begins to place the body into the linen shroud. Christ has encountered death and we await the announcement of His victory over death. We await the celebration of His glorious Resurrection. We learn valuable lessons in Stewardship from the events of Holy Week. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, secret disciples of Jesus, knew that if they had publicly acknowledged Jesus they would have lost their positions in life. Immediately following the events of the Crucifixion, however, they make a new commitment to the Lord. They are no longer worried what the Jews might say as they take Jesus down from the Cross. Joseph of Arimathea sacrifices the tomb prepared for his own burial, and gives it to his Master. He sees the burial as an opportunity to commit himself to the Lord with unending love.
What a beautiful tribute it is when one gives of his possessions to benefit another. This is exactly what Christian Stewardship offers- an opportunity and privilege to be faithful to our Risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! (See Matt. 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-46; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42.)
THE DESCENT INTO HADES (Holy Saturday, April 23, Vesperal Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.; Vigil at 11:00 p.m.)
Christ is Risen from the dead, and by His Death, He has trampled upon Death, and to those in the tombs, bestows life!
All Orthodox Christian know and chant with enthusiasm the triumphant hymn of the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The icon of Christ’s descent into Hades (which we can also view each Sunday in the stained glass between the Church and the Narthex) is the visual expression of this most beautiful hymn. Christ is seen as the Life-giver as He tramples on the gates of Hades, taking Adam and Eve by the hands, raising them to life.
Through our Lord’s entrance into Hades, death and sin have been vanquished. The radiant halo that surrounds Him depicts the radiant energy of His glorious Resurrection. He fills the darkness of Hades with the brilliance of His light. Standing upon the broken gates of the kingdom of Death, He demonstrates His victory over sin and Death by His own Crucifixion and Resurrection. This event reveals the promise to each of us, that we too will be raised to enjoy the Divine Life in the Heavenly Kingdom.
In liberating our first parents, Christ also frees those who put their faith in His coming. This truth is seen in the presence of Kings David and Solomon, vested in royal robes and crowns. They stand together with John the Baptist at Jesus’ right. Moses and the Prophets of the Old Testament stand at His left in the icon (and surround Him, as you look up at our dome at St. Demetrios) and with them, all of humanity is raised.
On the night of Pascha, the church is calm and dark. The priest comes out from the Holy Altar inviting the faithful to “…receive the light from the unwaning Light; and glorify Christ, Who is risen from the dead.”We ‘enter into the joy of the Lord’ and announce to the world: “It is the Day of Resurrection: Let us be glorious in splendor for the Festival, and let us embrace one another. Let us speak also, O brethren, to those that hate us, and in the Resurrection, let us forgive all things, and so let us cry: Christ is Risen from the dead, and by His Death, He has trampled upon Death, and to those in the tombs, bestows life!(See Matt. 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-10; Romans 5:15-17.)
AROUND TOWN12
Cleveland POPS Orchestra Showcases STIGMA
Sat., April 9, STIGMA Greek Band will make their historic debut at Severance Hall with the Cleveland POPS Orchestra in a concert entitled “Lands of Romance.” The concert features music from Greece, Italy, France and Spain and is part of 2010-11 season’s ‘Music Around the World.’ Stigma includes St. Demetrios parishioners John Salamalekis on guitar/vocals and Peter Politis on drums. Call 216-765-7677 for tickets or go to clevelandpops.com
Cleveland Adult Dance Group
The Inner Circle Dance Group, open to all adults (18 & up) from the Cleveland area, will be meeting & rehearsing to prepare for an upcoming performance at the Lorain International Festival on June 24. We will meet on Thu., April14 at St. Demetrios Church at 6:30 p.m. For more info contact Eleni Papouras-Jenks ([email protected]) .
AROUND THE COUNTRYArchbishop Demetrios Mourns Passing of Metropolitan Nicholas; Appointed Locum
Tenensin his place
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America noted with great sorrow the falling asleep in the Lord of Metropolitan Nicholas of Amissos, the Bishop of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in the USA. Metropolitan Nicholas fell asleep in the Lord on Sunday, March 13, 2011, the Sunday of Orthodoxy and the 28th anniversary of his ordination to the episcopacy.
When he was informed of the Metropolitan’s passing, Archbishop Demetrios, as Exarch of the EcumenicalPatriarchate, contacted His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, in order to apprise the Ecumenical Patriarchate of the loss. His All Holiness then by a formal letter, both to the Archbishop and to the Chancellor of the Carpatho-Russian Church, appointed Archbishop Demetrios to be the Locum Tenens(which means “temporary bishop” ) to the Carpatho-Russian diocese. Archbishop Demetrios also presided at the funeral.
St. Herman’s Continues Serving Cleveland’s Homeless
As Orthodox faithful and local media outlets continue to speculate whether it was long-term stress or recent health problems that led the former abbott John Henry of St. Herman’s to amass weapons, the House of Hospitality continues its mission to feed Cleveland’s homeless.
John Henry, who has been suspended by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, has recently spent some time at a monastery in New York and is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility in Maryland. In the meantime, Rev. George Hrbek, a retired Lutheran pastor, has stepped up to help St. Herman’s continue its important mission within an Orthodox framework. Rev. Hrbek contacted the Greater Cleveland Council of Orthodox Clergy to offer his assistance and the council will meet on April 4 to discuss the future of the monastery and its mission.
In the meantime, hundreds of items of clothing, cars, and other items that John Henry has hoarded over thirty years are being cleared out of the building on Franklin Avenue. Fr. Stephen Callos, on behalf of the GCCOC, has indicated that the council may maintain St. Herman’s as a monastery if the homeless shelter and business side of things are handled by others. Everyone seems to agree that punishing the neediest of our neighbors is not the answer, so the shelter will continueserving 3 meals a day to those who come for help.
Lenten Retreats In Northeast Ohio
In addition to the Lenten Lectures on Wednesdays here at St. Demetrios Church, Orthodox Christians in our area have the opportunity to attend two longer retreats to prepare for Pascha:
Sat., April 2 – “Building up the Body of Christ at the Parish Level” at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 129 S. Union St., Akron. Retreat speaker is Fr. Luke Veronis, pastor of Sts. Constantine & Helen Church in Webster, Mass., and an instructor at Hellenic College, Holy Cross Orthodox School of Theology, and St. Vladimir’s Seminary. Tickets are just $12 and include 9:30 a.m. coffee & registration; 10 a.m. morning prayers; 10:30 a.m. Session 1; Noon Lunch and 1 p.m. Session 2. Registration forms on the bulletin board in church.
Sat., April 9- “FAITH, HOPE, LOVE” 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Sts. Constantine & Helen Cathedral, 3352 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland Hts. Speaker Fr. Demetrios Carellas, chaplain of Nativity of Theotokos Monastery. $15 includes breakfast and lunch. ($20 if reserved after April 3.) Babysitting available upon request at $5/child. Call 216-932-3300 for reservation.
Fellowship for Area College Students Sat., April 2- 10 a.m. A Lenten Retreat with Liturgy, speakers & open discussion, and lunch, at Monastery Marcha, 5095 Broadview Rd, Richfield. All local OCF (Orthodox Christian Fellowship) chapters (CWRU, John Carroll, CSU, B-W, Tri-C and all other colleges in northeast Ohio) are welcome to attend in fellowship with one another. Those interested in more details on the above events, can find contact information on OCF on p. 2 of The Epistle.
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Release of Greek Cypriots Held by Turks
Cyprus- AHEPA welcomed reports last month that two Greek Cypriots were released after two days of custody in the Turkish-occupied north of the island. One of them is a former European Member of Parliament (MEP) and an AHEPA member. Also illegally arrested, but quickly released, were four current MEPs, two of which are Polish (including a son of former Polish President Lech Walesa), a Bulgarian, and a Cypriot, as well as Bishop Porfyrios of Neapolis, the Brussels-based Orthodox Church expert on cultural and religious heritage.
They were all part of an 11-member group that sought to witness first-hand the destruction of Cyprus' cultural and religious heritage in occupied Cyprus beginning with a visit to Varosha, an abandoned suburb of Famagusta. The arrests occurred in the courtyard of Agios Zoni, according to an AFP news report. Their release came after they appeared before a so-called military court in Turkish-occupied Cyprus on charges of trespassing into a restricted zone in the fenced-off quarter of Varosha.
AHEPA Supreme President Karacostas sent a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton expressing the association's denunciation of the arrests which he viewed as an "illegal act committed by an illegal occupying force that can only serve as a provocation of the Cypriot people."
"This incident is a sad reminder that after almost 37 yearsFamagusta remains a ghost town because of the illegal Turkish military presence and no one, including European members of parliament or clergy, is allowed entry," said Karacostas. "It is unacceptable that it remains a ghost town. Turkey must returnFamagustato its lawful inhabitants as it agreed to in 1979." (source: ahepa.org )
AROUND THE WORLD
OCMC Announces 2011 Missions
This year the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is proud to announce a collaboration with the Center for Family Care of the Greek Archdiocese by offering a Family Mission Team. Families from North America, along with Albanian families, will participate in this outreach assisted by OCMC missionaries and Albanian church leaders. The primary focus is to offer a “family witness” while sharing the faith and growing as a family in Christ. OCMC is coordinating Mission Teams that will serve in 9 countries in 2011:
Teaching in Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Albania Health care in Uganda and Tanzania Youth Work in Alaska, Guatemala, South Korea, Romania, and Albania Church Construction in Alaska
For more details and costs see the poster on the bulletin board at church. Or contact Andrew Lekos or Pres. Renee Ritsi by phone at 1-877-GO-FORTH (463-6784) or by e-mail at [email protected]. Visit http://teams.ocmc.orgto apply for 2011 OCMC Orthodox Mission Teams.
Orthodox Church in Japan Assesses Needs of Survivors, Searches for Missing Priest
Japan - International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) has been in contact with the Holy Autonomous Orthodox Church in Japan and our ACT Alliance partners to assess the emerging needs following the massive earthquake and tsunami which devastated north eastern Japan on March 11. IOCC is also reaching out to the Metropolis of Korea which is the Exarchate for Japan under the EcumenicalPatriarchate. As the Orthodox Church in Japan works to assess the needs of survivors, it reports that one priest in Tohoku, Japan is missing.
Given that most of the communications infrastructure was damaged, the Orthodox Church of Japan is still assessing the safety and exact needs of parishioners in the affected areas. The Holy Resurrection Cathedral of Tokyo and the building of the Metropolitan Council were spared damage.
"The outpouring of support from Orthodox Christians who have expressed their desire to help through IOCC has been moving," said IOCC Executive Director ConstantineTriantafilou. "This is a complex disaster – two almost simultaneous catastrophic events – and the scope of the need is just beginning to emerge. IOCC will continue to work with its Orthodox Christian and ecumenical partners to determine the most effective aid that can be rendered to Japan in the days and weeks to come."
The human toll and damage to homes and infrastructure following the 8.9-magnitude earthquake are only beginning to be calculated. More than 10,000 people are now feared dead after the earthquake-triggered tsunami washed away several coastal cities, including Sendai, the Episcopal throne of the East Japan Diocese of the Orthodox Church in Japan.
The overwhelming scale of the twin disasters has prompted the Japanese government to request international assistance. IOCC will coordinate its response with local Orthodox and ecumenical partners in Japan to identify unmet needs that will complement the assistance being rendered by the Japanese and other governments. (source: iocc.org)
Assassination Attempt on Patriarch Averted
Turkey - The Turkish police have prevented another assassination attempt on Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople Bartholomew I, according to the Austrian Catholic News Agency. The assassination attempt was planned in the Fanar district, where the residence of the Patriarch is located. The Turkish police have arrested two suspects aged 17 and 18.
This assassination attempt, which is not the first on His All Holiness, follows the recent assassinations of a Catholic priest, Armenian journalist Hrant Dink and three Protestants, including a German missionary, who were killed by Muslims aged 16-20. (source: PanArmenian.net)
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Each year, the Friday after Pascha is set aside to commemorate the Zo-odohos Piyi (Greek for “Life-giving Font”) but few of us could explain to what this refers. This year, St. Demetrios parishioners who are able to attend the Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m. on Fri., April 29 , will be a little more enlightened about this special feastday. And perhaps just a little more thankful of our ability to openly and safely practice our Faith…
Outside of Constantinople, towards the district of the Seven Towers, there was in ancient times a very large and most beautiful church named in honor of the Theotokos built about the middle of the 5th century by the Emperor Leo the Great (also called "Leo of Thrace,” commemorated on Jan. 20). Before he became Emperor, he had encountered there a blind man, who being tormented with thirst asked him to help him find water. Leo felt compassion for him and went in search of a source of water but found none. As he became downcast, he heard a voice telling him there was water nearby. He looked again, and found none. Then he heard the voice again, this time calling him "Emperor" and telling him that he would find muddy water in the densely wooded place nearby; he was to take some water and anoint the blind man's eyes with it. When he had done this, the blind man received his sight. After Leo became Emperor, as the most holy Theotokos had prophesied, he raised up a church over the spring, whose waters worked many healings and cured maladies by the grace of theTheotokos. From this, it came to be called the "Life-giving Spring” and the Orthodox Church celebrates the consecration of this church on Bright Friday (the Friday after Pascha.)
Photos on this page courtesy of Gary & Crystal Thomas and Anna Samarellis
(above) Zoodohos Piyi icon in our St. Philothei chapel
(right) Zoodohos Piyi icon within the original church in Turkey.
(above) Zoodohos Piyi’siconostasis today
(below) Courtyard to the church
(above) Icon and fountain as they appear today.
Sacred Sites: The Life-giving Font
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese National Young Adult Pilgrimage
Constantinople, Ephesus, Cappadocia
May 27-June 5, 2011
Led by Bishop Savas of Troas
Orthodox Young Adults (ages 18-35) interested in seeing some of the
magnificent historical & religious sites of Byzantium and Orthodoxy in Turkey can register at www.youngadultgoarch.org
After the fall of the imperial city in 1453, this church was razed to the ground and the materials from it were used for building the mosque of Sultan Bayezid. Nothing remained of that church's ancient beauty, except for a small and paltry chapel, almost completely buried in the ruins. This chapel had twenty-five steps going down into it, and a transom window on the roof, wherefrom it received a little light. Toward the western side of the chapel was the aforementioned holy Spring, fenced about with a railing, and with fish swimming in it. Such was the condition of the spring until 1821. Then, even that little remnant was destroyed, in retaliation for the uprising of the Greek nation against the Ottoman Empire; the sacred Spring was buried with it and disappeared altogether.
However, in the reign of Sultan Mahmud, there was some rejoicing as his subjects were given some freedom to practice their religion.Permission was sought and obtained by the Orthodox Christian community to rebuild at least part of the chapel and work was begun on July 26, 1833. When the excavation had been made, and the foundations of the ancient church were found, they rebuilt -- by a later writ of permission from the Sultan -- not merely a chapel, but another new church, constructed upon the foundations of the ancient one. The building of this spacious, beautiful, and most majestic temple began on September 14, 1833, and the work was completed on December 30, 1834. On February 2, 1835, the Ecumenical Patriarch Constantine II, serving the Liturgy together with twelve hierarchs and a great company of clergy, as well as a boundless multitude of Christians, performed the consecration of this sacred church and dedicated it to the glory of the Mother of God.
But on September 6, 1955, it was again desecrated and destroyed by the Moslem Turks in a week long pogrom against the Christian Greeks. (see photos, left.) It was again restored, (photos, previous page) but not to its former magnificence. (Source: goarch.org)
Correction: In last month’s issue, the Annunciation Church in Nazareth was listed as being Armenian. In fact, it belongs to the Greek Orthodox Church.
(above) World Council of Churches representatives visit Turkey to examine the desecrated tombs of the ecumenical patriarchs and destruction of the iconostasis of Zoodochos Piyi (among many other churches) after the Pogrom of 1955.
(left) Bishop Gerasimos, abbot of the Zoodochos Piyi monastery, after being beaten in the pogrom.
Photos above are by Demetrios Kaloumenos, as reproduced in “The Mechanism of Catastrophe” by Speros Vryonis, Jr. The book can be purchased in the Catacomb Bookstore or checked out of the parish library.
2011 Lenten Lecture Series: The BeatitudesThe BeatitudesThe BeatitudesThe Beatitudes
Wednesdays during Lent, Pre-Sanctified Liturgy at 6 p.m.; Lenten fellowship meal at 7 p.m., and Lecture at 8 p.m.
Date Speaker Topic Dinner Host
April 6 Fr. Nicholas Hughes Blessed are the peacemakers, G.O.Y.A.For they shall be called the children of God and
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after Justice,for they shall have their fill
April 13 Gerald Largent Blessed are the poor in spirit, St. Panteleimon Orthodoxfor theirs is the kingdom of Heaven Christian Outreach
Vespers for St. George
Monday, April 25 at
7:00 p.m.
The Platanos Society will offer refreshments to the community
following the service.
St. George’s feastday is one of the Church’s “moveable feasts” that depends on when Pascha is celebrated. We normally celebrate St. George on April 23, unless that date falls before Pascha , like in 2011, in which case we celebrate the day after.
On the Bulletin Board
Join YASSOU CLUB for a
Dean Martin Tribute: A Son Remembers
Friday, May 20 at 11:30 a.m.
Carrie Cerino’s Ballroom, 8922 Ridge Road, North Royalton.
In a loving tribute to his father, Dean Martin’s youngest son Ricci takes us down memory lane. In this new and exciting performance, he will be singing many of his father’s hit songs, such as Volare, That’s Amore, Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime, just to name a few. Also featured are acts by Ricci & his pals in tributes to Frank Sinatra & Sammy Davis Jr. Lunch & Show $50.00 per person. For reservations, contact Estelle Callas at 440-779-6981 no later than Fri., May 6.
St. Demetrios Church
Bereavement Support GroupBereavement Support GroupBereavement Support GroupBereavement Support GroupThe mission of the Bereavement Support Group is to offer support to those dealing with the loss of a loved one, to
offer a sense of control, and to help understand the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual reactions to loss.
Together we will offer: Prayer - Support - Fellowship -Quiet Meditation - Peaceful Reflection.
The Bereavement Support Group meets in a relaxed and confidential environment. The facilitators are Fr. James A.
Doukas, and Angie Giallourakis, Ph.D.
For more information please contact Fr. Jim in the office or Angie at 440-871-2681 or [email protected]
The support group will meet on the first Monday of each month (April 4) at 9:30 am. in St. Philothei chapel.
SAVE THE DATE:
Saturday, November 12, 2011
3rd Annual
Enchanted Evening
$100 Dinner-Dance and
Silent Auction
We are now accepting items, services, etc. for the Silent Auction. Please contact Vaso
Diamantis at 216-870-8314 or at [email protected]
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SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS
Office: 216-373-1476 Fax: 440-348-2302 Mobile: 440-653-1947
Email: [email protected]
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tel: 1-866-797-9018
Coyne CateringNow at St. Demetrios Cultural Hall for weddings,
baptisms, corporate parties and more!
Tricia Coyne 216-695-1160
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Call 440-331-2246 x2 to place your ad and support St. Demetrios Church!
NON-PROFIT ORG.
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Greek Orthodox Community of St. Demetrios
22909 Center Ridge Road
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Yurch funeral home
NOW WITH FUNERAL HOME CLOSE TO ST. DEMETRIOS
(216) 398-1010
George’s Kitchen Family Restaurant
13101 Triskett Road
“Home Cooked Meals” and Take-out orders
Phone: 216-671-0430