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St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Christian Church
Publish Date: 2015-02-22
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Eden
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St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Christian Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (619) 297-4165
  • Fax:
  • (619) 297-4181
  • Street Address:

  • 3655 Park Boulevard

  • San Diego, CA 92103


Contact Information






Services Schedule

Sunday Services

Orthros/Matins: 8:30am

Divine Liturgy: 10:00am


Past Bulletins


St. Spyridon Parish News, Events, Activities and Announcements

Stewardship and Service

As the Chair of your Stewardship Committee, I am very proud to share that our 2015 stewardship drive is off to an incredible start. As of mid-February, over 240 families had submitted their 2015 pledge in faithful support of our parish & community. I will also tell you that January was easily the strongest January for stewardship in the history of our parish.  But as we all know, stewardship extends well beyond our gestures of financial support.  On any given day, our church property is teaming with many generous volunteers giving of their precious time to support our church, our ministries, our youth and others in serious need. We, as a community, are fortunate in many ways and I choose to believe that our Lord smiles on us because of our commitment to stewardship and service to the world around us.  As we move forward, let us remember that stewardship is more than a percentage of our annual income.  It is an honorable reflection of gratitude for all that we have been given.  It is a thoughtful offering of one’s self, as Christ offered Himself for us. May God continue to bless your families as faithful stewards of our community in Christ.

The Stewardship Committee: Ben De La Riva, Stewardship Chairperson, Jim Gilpin, John Kalas, Greg Kostas, Bill Navrides, Stephen Thiros, Spero Tzathas and Fr. Andrew.

Sunday School News

On Sunday Feb 22nd, Forgiveness Sunday (Cheesefare Sunday): our OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center) Leader, Ms. Maria Kelmis will be holding a presentation about this year's OCMC event.  We will guide all  students, all grades to assemble in the downstairs Preschool classroom for this presentation.

Sunday of Orthodoxy: Please remember to bring your favorite icon from home for each of your children on Sunday, March 1st, for the Sunday of Orthodoxy.  The Sunday School children will be in the procession of icons on that Feast day.

St. John Oratorical: We are encouraging the Junior and Senior youth of our community to work on their oratorical speeches for the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival.  Our parish speeches are scheduled for Sunday, March 8th.  It will be a blessing and an honor for our children who participate to be able to present their speeches before Father Andrew, our assigned judges, the faithful of our community, and our special guest: Mother Macrina.

Lenten Spiritual Retreat: We have invited Mother Macrina to lead the faithful of our parish through a weekend long series of spiritual Retreats at our parish.  The culminating retreat will be the community wide retreat on March 7, 2015 from 10am-2pm.   We have also scheduled one on one sessions for our Senior Group and our Youth Groups as well.  A complete list of events is forth coming and a flier is included on the "Insert" tab on the left side of this Bulletin Builder.  

Mother Macrina is a professed nun with 17 years of monastic experience and will be visiting us from the Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery in Rives Junction, Michigan.  Mother Macrina is well known in the Midwest and has led many retreats at both the Monastery and other Orthodox parishes.  Please mark your calendars from now for this wonderful Lenten opportunity.  If you would like to know more about Mother Macrina or the Dormition Monastery please visit www.dormitionmonastery.org or contact Alina Kleinhenz, or our Sunday School Director, at kleinhenz@cox.net

Please make plans to attend the Divine Liturgy regularly and to have your child(ren) join us for the Sunday School programs immediately following Holy Communion.

Thank you very much for your continuous support!

In Christ,
Alina Kleinhenz
Sunday School Director

Ancient Wisdom & Modern Coffee

Sunday School class for adults taught by Michael Kallas, MDiv, meets March 1, April 19, May 3 and May 17 in the Lounge immediately following the Divine Liturgy for our continued study of The Roar of a Lion.  Come and hear!

Senior Citizens

Our next get-together will be Friday, March 6th at 11:00 a.m.  We will have a light Lenten meal followed by a presentation by Mother Macrina titled, ‘Today Strive To Be Holy.’  WE WILL NOT MEET TUESDAY, MARCH 10th.  Hope to see you March 6th.

GOYA March 7th

Please join us in the Church Hall on Saturday, March 7th from 5 to 8 pm for a special GOYA meeting with Mother Macrina where you will learn more about your faith and yourselves. It will be a Saturday night that will change your lives. Please let us know by Tuesday, March 3rd (619-992-6775 or navridesfamily@gmail.com) if you will be attending this interactive workshop so we can properly prepare the Lenten meal.

SAVE THE DATE! - GOYA Palm Sunday Luncheon

Please join us for the GOYA Palm Sunday Luncheon on April 5th in the Church Hall.   Adults $15 and Children under twelve $8.  Pay before March 29th to be entered in a drawing to win a prize!  Please remember, NO tickets will be sold at the door.  Thank you for supporting St. Spyridon’s GOYA. 

SAVE THE DATE! - Philoptochos Spring Glendi

Philoptochos Spring Glendi -  Saturday, May 2nd in the Cypress Room.  More details to follow, but please save the date today.  As always, thank you for your continued support.

"Ask Father"

Check out this new opportuinty to ask a question following the sermon on Sundays.  It is called "Ask Father" and you can read all about it in the "Insert, Fliers, Extras" section on the left of this Bulletin Builder or from the February Newsletter that was just sent to your homes.  

Receive Back 0.5% From “Amazon Smile” Foundation

We are pleased to announce, St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church of San Diego now participates in AmazonSmile.  AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon that lets you enjoy the same wide selection of millions of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as on Amazon.com.  The difference is that when you shop on AmazonSmile, the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church.  That’s right, every eligible purchase you or someone else makes at AmazonSmile 0.5% will be donated back to our parish!!!

Register by visiting AmazonSmile (smile.amazon.com) and select “St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church” before you make your first purchase (be sure to select St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church - San Diego, California).  Amazon will remember your selection and each time a purchase is made AmazonSmile will donate 0.5% back to our parish.  

For more information about AmazonSmile, go to http://smile.amazon.com/about 

We hope you’ll consider this easy way to support your beloved parish.  Everyone is eligible to participate so tell your friends and relatives and spread the word about this wonderful program.  It takes little effort and with our collective participation and God’s continued blessings, our parish can benefit from this program. 

A short video will be available on the parish website demonstrating how to select St. Spyridon GOC as your charity in your Amazon user account.

Live Stream Broadcast  

If you know someone who may be in the hospital or home bound or for whatever reason just cannot get to church, don’t forget about the Live Stream Broadcast of our Divine Services.  You can watch our Live Broadcast by going to our parish website and clicking on the “Live Broadcast” tab on the top tool bar.  Remember, our Live Stream Broadcast is for those who absolutely cannot physically make the divine services of the church and is not a substitute for being present.  Also, please be aware that conversations, crying babies, etc. can be heard on the broadcast.  We have a wonderful cry room facility, which is located off the Narthex behind the candle stand, and is comfortable and provided for your convenience. 

The Live Stream divine services of Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church of San Diego, CA may not be recorded, retransmitted or reproduced without the express written consent of the Parish Council of Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church of San Diego, CA. Thank you for your consideration.

Donations toward the digital ministries of the parish are warmly welcomed.  If you would like to help support the ministries of Saint Spyridon please contact the church office.  Again, thank you.

Decorated Feast Day Icons

Philoptochos invites you and your family to commemorate a special Feast Day by sponsoring the floral adornments around the blessed icons.  Throughout the liturgical year there are many opportunities to offer a decorated feast day icon on any scheduled feast day.  Please consider honoring the saint or event of the liturgical year, ie Epiphany, The Nativity of our Lord, St. Nicholas, etc.  This offering is a perfect way to not only honor a feast Day and a family member as well.  Suggested donation for each decorated feast day icon is only $50.00.   If you are interested please contact the church office for available scheduled feast day opportunities.

Our Website Link 

To visit our wonderful website please click on the following link and enjoy photos of the parish events, our Monthly Newsletter, Service Schedule and other useful information: www.stspyridon.org. 

Parish News, Events, Announcements, Etc.

Stay up to date on the parish's news, events, announcements, etc. by joining our email Listserv today.  You can join by going to our website www.stspyridon.org and clicking on "Subscribe To Our News & Mail List" (in the upper left hand corner).  It takes less than two minutes to join and stay up to date.

 

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Parish Google Calendar

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Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Η Τρίτη ημέρα του προσκυνήματος του Αρχιεπισκόπου στην Κύπρο

10/24/2014

Σειρά σημαντικών επισκέψεων και συναντήσεων του Αρχιεπισκόπου Δημητρίου στην Κύπρο

10/23/2014

Archbishop Demetrios As He Begins Official Visit to Cyprus, Says It Is a Pilgrimage to a Sacred Place

10/22/2014

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America arrived today, Oct 21, 2014, in Cyprus for an official visit to Cyprus, following the invitation of the President of the Republic of Cyprus Mr. Nikos Anastasiades, and with the unanimous agreement of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for OXI Day - October 28, 2014

10/21/2014

As we commemorate OXI Day on October 28 and remember the valiant stand of the people of Greece in 1940 against the advancement of the forces of Fascism, we are aware that struggles for freedom and peace and against tyranny are very much a part of our modern world. Just as some of us and most certainly our fathers and mothers saw and experienced the brutality and inhumane actions of an occupying force, so too we are witnesses today of persecution, violence, and death.

Ground Blessing for Saint Nicholas at WTC, a place of prayer and peace, a place of hope and love

10/20/2014

More than 2,000 people gathered yesterday Oct. 18, 2014 at 130 Liberty Street, the new site for Saint Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center, for the historic event of the Blessing of the Ground and the symbolic “laying of the corner stone.”

Announcement of the Holy Eparchial Synod

10/17/2014

The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America convened for its regular meeting in the Synodal Chamber at the Archdiocesan headquarters on October 15 and 16. His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America presided at the meeting, with the participation of the Members of the Synod.

Ground Blessing LIVE on Satellite, ANT1-SAT TV and the Internet

10/16/2014

The Ground Blessing ceremony for the Saint Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center, on Saturday October 18, 2014 at 12:00 noon, will be broadcast live through a LIVE SATELLITE FEED (see technical information below), both domestically and internationally and will be carried live through the Antenna Satellite TV network, as well through an Internet simulcast through the special internet page for the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas www.stnicholaswtc.org which is also accessible through the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese official web page www.goarch.org

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for October 10-28, 2014

10/10/2014

Rebuilding of Saint Nicholas at WTC to Commence with Ground Blessing Oct. 18

10/10/2014

A Ground Blessing ceremony for the Saint Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center is set for Saturday October 18, 2014 at 12:00 noon. The ceremony will include a combined prayer service of blessing of the site (agiasmos), and a doxology (a service of thanksgiving). Contact: Press Office/Stavros Papagermanos (212) 570-3530

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for National Leadership 100 Sunday - October 26, 2014

10/09/2014

On this Sunday, October 26, the Feast of Saint Demetrios and following the Feast of Saint Iakovos on October 23, we give thanks to God for the steadfast and abounding labor of the members of Leadership 100 and celebrate the great accomplishments of the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, as its celebration of its 30th Anniversary comes to a close.

Archbishop Demetrios to Make Official Visit to Cyprus

10/06/2014

On the invitation of the President of the Republic of Cyprus Mr. Nikos Anastasiades and with the unanimous agreement of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will embark on an official visit to Cyprus, October 20-27, 2014.

Fr. John Orfanakos Fund for the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival Scholarship

09/22/2014

The Archdiocese Department of Religious Education has established the Fr. John Orfanakos Fund for the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival Scholarship as a tribute to the late Co-Chairman of the Archdiocese Oratorical Festival.

VP and Foreign Minister of Greece Evangelos Venizelos Visits Archbishop Demetrios

09/22/2014

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America received today Monday Sept. 22, 2014, the visit of Mr. Evangelos Venizelos, the Vice President of the Greek Government and Foreign Minister of Greece.

Assembly of Bishops Issues Message to the Faithful, Statement on Middle East

09/19/2014

The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America concluded its fifth annual meeting on Thursday in Dallas, Texas. The Assembly issued a message to the faithful and a statement on the Middle East.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for September 19 – October 3, 2014

09/19/2014

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Inserts, Fliers, Extras

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Wisdom of the Fathers

Do we forgive our neighbors their trespasses? God also forgives us in His mercy. Do we refuse to forgive? God, too, will refuse to forgive us. As we treat our neighbors, so also does God treat us. The forgiveness, then, of your sins or unforgiveness, and hence also your salvation or destruction, depend on you yourself, man. For without forgiveness of sins there is no salvation.
St. Tikhon of Zadonsk
Unknown, 18th century

Henceforward then we must be free from our listlessness; "for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed."[*] You see how he puts the Resurrection now close by them. For as the time advances, he means, the season of our present life is wasting away, and that of the life to come waxes nearer. If then thou be prepared, and hast done all whatsoever He hath commanded, the day is salvation to thee...Yes, for the day is calling us to battle-array, and to the fight. Yet fear not at hearing of array and arms. For in the case of the visible suit of armor, to put it on is a heavy and abhorred task. But here it is desirable, and worth being prayed for. For it is of Light the arms are! Hence they will set thee forth brighter than the sunbeam, and giving out a great glistening, and they place thee in security: for they are arms, and glittering do they make thee: for arms of light are they!...It is the deadly kind of passions then that he is for extinguishing, lust, namely, and anger. Wherefore it is not themselves only, but even the sources of them that he removes. For there is nothing that so kindles lust, and inflames wrath, as drunkenness, and sitting long at the wine...
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 25 on Romans 13, 4th Century

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

For I know, yea I know many, not merely fasting and making a display of it, but neglecting to fast, and yet wearing the masks of them that fast, and cloaking themselves with an excuse worse than their sin.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 20 on Matthew 6, 4th Century

What He said is like this: Bury not gold in the earth, nor do any other such thing, for you do but gather it for the moth, and the rust, and the thieves. And even if you should entirely escape these evils, yet the enslaving of thine heart, the nailing it to all that is below, you will not escape: "For wheresoever thy treasure may be, there is thine heart also." ...
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 20 on Matthew 6, 4th Century

For the same is both treasure and seed; or rather it is more than either of these. For the seed remains not for ever, but this abides perpetually. Again, the treasure germinates not, but this bears thee fruits which never die.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 20 on Matthew 6, 4th Century

Spiritual delight is not enjoyment found in things that exists outside the soul.
St. Isaac of Syria
Unknown , 7th century

Before we enter the Lenten fast, we are reminded that there can be no true fast, no genuine repentance, no reconciliation with God, unless we are at the same time reconciled with one another. A fast without mutual love is the fast of demons. . . We do not travel the road of Lent as isolated individuals but as members of a family.
His Grace Bishop Kallistos of Diokleia
20th Century

For he who is praying as he ought, and fasting, has not many wants, and he who has not many wants is not covetous. He who fasts is light, and winged, and prays with wakefulness, and quenches his wicked lusts, and propitiates God, and humbles his soul when lifted up ... nothing is mightier than the man who prays sincerely.
St. John Chrysostom
Fourth Century

The value of fasting consists not in abstinence only from food, but in a relinquishment of sinful practices, since he who limits his fasting only to an abstinence from meat is he who especially disparages it. The change in our way of life during these blessed days will help us to gain holiness. Therefore we should let our soul rejoice during the fast.
St. John Chrysostom
Fourth Century

The basis of all good things is the liberation of the soul from the captivity of the enemy. The light and life that accompany this freedom is attained by settling steadfastly in a single place and always fasting. That is, by regulating your life wisely and prudently, practicing restraint of the flesh, and remaining in a quiet place. He who puts these two rules into practice will eventually attain all the virtues.
Abba Isaac

A vainglorious ascetic is cheated both ways: he exhausts his body and gets no reward ... It is not he who depreciates himself who shows humility, but he who maintains the same love for every man who reproaches him.
St. John Climacus

. . .humble men like this are not men who have been converted, who have repented. They are men who are being converted, who are repenting. The Lord's call to repentance does not mean that we are to be converted once only, nor that we should repent from time to time (though one ought to begin with that). It means that our whole life should be a conversion, a constant repentance.
Archimandrite Vasileios
Hymn of Entry, 20th Century

It is required that not only with the body should we fast, but with the soul. Now the soul is humbled when it does not follow wicked opinions, but feeds on becoming virtues. For virtues and vices are the food of the soul, and it can eat either of these two. Bend your appetite toward virtues, as Paul says, "Being nourished by the word of truth."
St. Athansios of Alexandria

That great man Moses, when fasting, conversed with God, and received the law. Great and holy Elijah, when fasting, was thought worthy of divine visions, and at last was taken up like Him who ascended into heaven. And Daniel, when fasting, although a very young man, was entrusted with the mystery, and he alone under-stood the secret thing of the king. . .
St. Athanasios of Alexandria

If we have true love with sympathy and patient labor, we shall not go about scrutinizing our neighbor's shortcomings. As it is said, "Charity shall cover the multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8). . . True love screens anything of this kind, as did the saints when they saw the shortcomings of men. Were they blind? Not at all! But they simply would not let their eyes dwell on sins.
St. Dorotheos of Gaza

One must not trust one's feelings, since because of his limitedness a man cannot know everything, and therefore his judgment is also relatively limited. "Even if you see with your own eyes that someone sins, do not judge, for the eyes also may be deceived."
St. John Climacus

0ne must in every way flee from judging, and pray in secret for those who have sinned. "This form of love is pleasing to God." Judging is bound up with impudence and is incompatible with true repentance: "To judge is to impudently appropriate to oneself the rank of God."
St. John Climacus

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Saints and Feasts

Eden
February 22

Forgiveness Sunday

The Holy Fathers have appointed the commemoration of Adam's exile from the Paradise of delight here, on the eve of the holy Forty-day Fast, demonstrating to us not by simple words, but by actual deeds, how beneficial fasting is for man, and how harmful and destructive are insatiety and the transgressing of the divine commandments. For the first commandment that God gave to man was that of fasting, which the first-fashioned received but did not keep; and not only did they not become gods, as they had imagined, but they lost even that blessed life which they had, and they fell into corruption and death, and transmitted these and innumerable other evils to all of mankind. The God-bearing Fathers set these things before us today, that by bringing to mind what we have fallen from, and what we have suffered because of the insatiety and disobedience of the first-fashioned, we might be diligent to return again to that ancient bliss and glory by means of fasting and obedience to all the divine commands. Taking occasion from today's Gospel (Matt. 6:14-21) to begin the Fast unencumbered by enmity, we also ask forgiveness this day, first from God, then from one another and all creation.


Allsaint
February 23

Polycarp the Holy Martyr & Bishop of Smyrna

This apostolic and prophetic man, and model of faith and truth, was a disciple of John the Evangelist, successor of Bucolus (Feb. 6), and teacher of Irenaeus (Aug. 23). He was an old man and full of days when the fifth persecution was raised against the Christians under Marcus Aurelius. When his pursuers, sent by the ruler, found Polycarp, he commanded that they be given something to eat and drink, then asked them to give him an hour to pray; he stood and prayed, full of grace, for two hours, so that his captors repented that they had come against so venerable a man. He was brought by the Proconsul of Smyrna into the stadium and was commanded, "Swear by the fortune of Caesar; repent, and say, 'Away with the atheists.'" By atheists, the Proconsul meant the Christians. But Polycarp, gazing at the heathen in the stadium, waved his hand towards them and said, "Away with the atheists." When the Proconsul urged him to blaspheme against Christ, he said: "I have been serving Christ for eighty-six years, and He has wronged me in nothing; how can I blaspheme my King Who has saved me?" But the tyrant became enraged at these words and commanded that he be cast into the fire, and thus he gloriously expired about the year 163. As Eusebius says, "Polycarp everywhere taught what he had also learned from the Apostles, which also the Church has handed down; and this alone is true" (Eccl. Hist., Book IV, ch. 14,15).


07_john2
February 24

First & Second Finding of the Venerable Head of John the Baptist

The first finding came to pass during the middle years of the fourth century, through a revelation of the holy Forerunner to two monks, who came to Jerusalem to worship our Saviour's Tomb. One of them took the venerable head in a clay jar to Emesa in Syria. After his death it went from the hands of one person to another, until it came into the possession of a certain priest-monk named Eustathius, an Arian. Because he ascribed to his own false belief the miracles wrought through the relic of the holy Baptist, he was driven from the cave in which he dwelt, and by dispensation forsook the holy head, which was again made known through a revelation of Saint John, and was found in a water jar, about the year 430, in the days of the Emperor Theodosius the Younger, when Uranius was Bishop of Emesa.


Allsaint
February 25

Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople

This Saint was the son of one of the foremost princes in Constantinople, and was originally a consul and first among the Emperor's private counselors. Then, in 784, he was elected Patriarch of Constantinople by the Sovereigns Irene and her son Constantine Porphyrogenitus. He convoked the Seventh Ecumenical Council that upheld the holy icons, and became the boast of the Church and a light to the clergy. He reposed in 806.


Allsaint
February 26

Porphyrius, Bishop of Gaza

Saint Porphyrius had Thessalonica as his homeland. He became a monk in Scete of Egypt, where he lived for five years. He went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, after which he spent five years in much affliction in a cave near the Jordan. Stricken with a disease of the liver, he departed to Jerusalem, where he was ordained presbyter and appointed Keeper of the Cross at the age of 45. Three years later he was made Bishop of Gaza. He suffered much from the rulers and pagans of Gaza; but with the friendship of Saint John Chrysostom, and the patronage of the Empress Eudoxia, he razed the temple of the idol Marnas in Gaza and built a great church to the glory of God. He reposed in 450.


Allsaint
February 27

Procopius the Confessor of Decapolis

Saints Procopius and Basil, fellow ascetics, lived about the middle of the eighth century, during the reign of Leo the Isaurian (717-741), from whom they suffered many things for the sake of the veneration of the holy icons. They ended their lives in the ascetical discipline.


Allsaint
February 28

Righteous John Cassian the Confessor

Note: If it is not a leap year the hymns of Saint John are transferred to the 28th.

This Saint was born about the year 350, and was, according to some, from Rome, according to others, from Dacia Pontica (Dobrogea in present-day Romania). He was a learned man who had first served in the military. Later, he forsook this life and became a monk in Bethlehem with his friend and fellow-ascetic, Germanus of Dacia Pontica, whose memory is also celebrated today. Hearing the fame of the great Fathers of Scete, they went to Egypt about the year 390; their meetings with the famous monks of Scete are recorded in Saint John's Conferences. In the year 403 they went to Constantinople, where Cassian was ordained deacon by Saint John Chrysostom; after the exile of Saint Chrysostom, Saints Cassian and Germanus went to Rome with letters to Pope Innocent I in defence of the exiled Archbishop of Constantinople. There Saint Cassian was ordained priest, after which he went to Marseilles, where he established the famous monastery of Saint Victor. He reposed in peace about the year 433.

The last of his writings was On the Incarnation of the Lord, Against Nestorius, written in 430 at the request of Leo, the Archdeacon of Pope Celestine. In this work he was the first to show the spiritual kinship between Pelagianism, which taught that Christ was a mere man who without the help of God had avoided sin, and that it was possible for man to overcome sin by his own efforts; and Nestorianism, which taught that Christ was a mere man used as an instrument by the Son of God, but was not God become man; and indeed, when Nestorius first became Patriarch of Constantinople in 428, he made much show of persecuting the heretics, with the exception only of the Pelagians, whom he received into communion and interceded for them to the Emperor and to Pope Celestine.

The error opposed to Pelagianism but equally ruinous was Augustine's teaching that after the fall, man was so corrupt that he could do nothing for his own salvation, and that God simply predestined some men to salvation and others to damnation. Saint John Cassian refuted this blasphemy in the thirteenth of his Conferences, with Abbot Chairemon, which eloquently sets forth, at length and with many citations from the Holy Scriptures, the Orthodox teaching of the balance between the grace of God on one hand, and man's efforts on the other, necessary for our salvation.

Saint Benedict of Nursia, in Chapter 73 of his Rule, ranks Saint Cassian's Institutes and Conferences first among the writings of the monastic fathers, and commands that they be read in his monasteries; indeed, the Rule of Saint Benedict is greatly indebted to the Institutes of Saint John Cassian. Saint John Climacus also praises him highly in section 105 of Step 4 of the Ladder of Divine Ascent, on Obedience.


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Metropolitan Gerasimos

Christmas Encyclical 2014

12/15/2014

                             “When the angels went away from them into heaven,
                                            the shepherds said to one another, 
                            ‘Let us go over and see this thing that has happened, 
                                      which the Lord has made known to us.’"

                                                            Luke 2:15

Dearly Beloved,

Two millennia have passed since the day when simple shepherds encountered the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem. In this season of hope, we too have been invited to go to Bethlehem and find the Christ in a manger. Amid the decorations and celebrations, the opportunity to encounter the living God is before us once again.

We encounter Christ in the Holy Scripture. We read the story of His Nativity in the Gospels 
of Saint Matthew and Saint Luke. We read the prophesies of His arrival in the Old Testament where we encounter the hopes of a people for a Savior, and their fulfillment in the birth of 
Jesus. In the scriptures, we see how God Himself appears on earth so that humanity may 
have fellowship with the Most High God. And we read His name is Emmanuel, which means, “God with us” Matthew 1:23.

We meet the newborn Christ in our churches, joining with our fellow parishioners and community in the liturgical services of this Festival. The story of Nativity will be repeated in the hymns and the readings. But more than tell us a familiar story, we will hear the meaning of the Feast: Christ is born and heaven and earth are united. As Saint Athanasios the Great said, “God became human so that humans could become God.” In the Liturgy, we meet Christ most directly and personally in the Holy Eucharist, receiving Him for the salvation of our souls and bodies.

We encounter the newborn Christ when we extend ourselves beyond ourselves and reach out to those in need through our service and philanthropy. Who among us has not been moved by the ongoing suffering of Christians in the Middle East, Africa and Asia? Who among us has not been troubled by the injustice and inequality in our society? These are opportunities for each of us to search our souls and extend our assistance to the voiceless, the powerless, and the oppressed.

We encounter Christ in our families and loved ones, especially the encounter of the young and the old. As we prepare for the Feast in our homes, use these moments to share experiences and memories, and listen to one another's hopes and joys. The greatest gift we can give to others in these days is the gift of our time and presence.

One of the most beautiful of Christmas carols is “O Come, All Ye Faithful”. The lyrics invite 
us to be like the shepherds and go to the place where Christ is encountered so that we may adore Our Lord, Jesus Christ. Bethlehem is always before us, in our homes, in our neighborhoods, and in our churches. In these joyous days of Christmas, seek Bethlehem and encounter the newborn King.

May the Love and Grace of our Savior, be with you and your loved ones this Holy Season of Nativity.

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
With Love in Our Incarnate Lord,

+ G E R A S I M O S

Metropolitan of San Francisco


10-year Anniversary of the Passing of +Metropolitan Anthony

12/02/2014

“When you have done all that is commanded you, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have only done what was our duty.’”
--Luke 17:10


Metropolitan Anthony 10 Year Commemoration by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos
The Mantle Of Elijah An Encyclical of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony 
A Reflection on the Life of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony by Rev. Fr. John Bakas
Celebrating the Life and Ministry of +Metropolitan Anthony by Rev. Father John Hondros
In Remembrance of +Metropolitan Anthony By Rev. Dr. Christopher Flesoras

Beloved in the Lord,

This Christmas, December 25, 2014, marks the 10th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, for it was Christmas Day 2004, when he departed from among us. He was a hierarch and shepherd with unique vision, a faithful servant of God's Will, and a true father to many of clergy and laity during his inspired 25 year ministry.

I have been a grateful recipient of the fruits of his labors and, along with you, I have tried to continue and build upon his God-pleasing work here in the West Coast. Just three days before his passing, Metropolitan Anthony published the attached encyclical, The Mantle of Elijah, which is a sincere and meaningful message and accounting of his service to the faithful of this Metropolis. This is an important document for all of us as we endeavor to actualize and expand his dreams and vision for our Church. As we now find ourselves ten years after his repose, our task is to bring to fruition these dreams, augmenting the vision he left for us to complete.

Additionally, I am attaching a biographical and poignant personal account of the life and ministry of Metropolitan Anthony, written by one of his closest friends and co-workers, Father John Bakas, the Dean of Saint Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles. I believe his view of Metropolitan Anthony is exceptionally personal and warm, and reminds us of Metropolitan Anthony’s ever-youthful but bold spirit.

I am instructing all the clergy in our Metropolis to conduct a Memorial Service for the eternal memory and rest of this Spiritual Father of our Metropolis on Sunday December 21, 2014. Additionally I am directing our priests to share with their congregations their personal thoughts of Metropolitan Anthony, as well as the attached information, which I know your faithful will find both spiritually edifying and uplifting. The Metropolis will organize other events to mark this anniversary in the near future.

May the memory of Metropolitan Anthony – a shepherd, friend, and faithful servant of the Lord – be eternal!

With Love in Christ,

+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis Elected Bishop of Medeia

12/01/2014

Dearly Beloved,

It is with great joy that I wish to announce to all our clergy and faithful in the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco that the Holy Synod of our Ecumenical Patriarchate has elected the Very Rev. Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, the Chancellor of our Metropolis, as Bishop of Medeia.

His Grace Bishop-elect Apostolos shall serve under the Archbishop of America, as do all auxiliary bishops of our Archdiocese; however, he has been appointed by the Archbishop to serve the specific needs of our Metropolis, according to the regulations of our Holy Archdiocese. Thus, Bishop-elect Apostolos will occupy the position of Acting Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco and be responsible to the Metropolitan, while continuing his active involvement in the various ministries, committees and programs of our Metropolis. 

As your Metropolitan I have often noted that it is impossible for me to attend all the events that are taking place in our Metropolis. There are too many important activities throughout our Metropolis that require attention and prompt response. The geography of our Metropolis is quite vast and our parishes are very active, thus our Metropolis would be enhanced by the addition of a bishop. It is worth noting that adding a bishop to serve in our Metropolis was a goal of our Metropolis Strategic Plan, and one that should, over time, assist our Metropolis to grow and strengthen the ministries of our Church.

An auxiliary or titular bishop is not elected to an extant diocese of the Church. Medeia is an ancient city, where there once was a Christian community, but no longer. An auxiliary bishop is greeted as “His Grace” (Theofilestatos). When he celebrates the Divine Liturgy, he commemorates the ruling hierarch of the Metropolis. With the permission of the Eparchial Synod he, like all bishops, may perform all services that are reserved for the hierarchy.

Bishop-elect Apostolos has many desirable characteristics for a hierarch. Foremost is his faith in the Lord, and his love and fidelity to His Holy Orthodox Church and our Archdiocese. His care and concern for the clergy and the faithful of our Church is evident at every occasion.

Bishop-elect Apostolos will be ordained to the Episcopacy on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York. Meanwhile I ask that you include Bishop-elect Apostolos in your prayers, asking our Lord and all the Saints to strengthen him and keep him worthy of his new ministry.


With Love in Christ,

+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


Thanksgiving Encyclical 2014

11/23/2014

Dearly Beloved,

On Thanksgiving Day across our nation, families and friends will gather for this annual historic celebration. Hours of travel, preparation, and anticipation will culminate at the dinner table and, for just a few minutes, all will bow their heads, thanking the Most High God for the generous gifts that He bestows upon us (James 1:17), not just on that day but every day of our lives. Knowing and recognizing God as our ultimate Benefactor offers us the possibility for transforming our life into a continual act of thanksgiving. Saint Basil the Great once wrote, “Recognize your Benefactor! Consider yourself, who you are, what resources have been entrusted to you, from whom you received them, and why you received more than others.”We have so much to be thankful for: our lives, our families, the material goods that surround us, and the freedom we enjoy as citizens of the blessed country. We can and should thank God daily for His many gifts, not only on one Thursday in November. In our parishes we have the Divine Liturgy, which is our supreme offering of thanks to the Almighty God.

There is also a reality that this feast should remind us about and challenge us to act. In our great land, 46 million of our fellow citizens rely on food pantries and meal services to feed themselves and their families. Nearly 18 million of our fellow citizens experience limited or uncertain access to adequate food. Seven million of them often go hungry, skipping meals, because they do not have food to eat in their homes. You might dismiss these people as lazy or someone “looking for a handout”. This, no doubt, is true in some instances, but the poor in America are even more likely to be military families or senior citizens, living on very meager incomes.

Greek Orthodox Christians enjoy pointing out that they are among the wealthiest groups in America. This places a special responsibility upon us, especially on days such as Thanksgiving, to give back to the community that has given us so much. Hunger in America can be such a cause for today’s society. As we read in the Psalms, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever” (Psalm 112:9).

On this Thanksgiving holiday, share the bounty of your table with those who live with far less. Open your homes to them; take food to them; donate to the food banks; volunteer in their kitchens. Our great material success should motivate us to become great in philanthropy.

Finally, I wish you and your beloved families a most blessed Thanksgiving holiday, full of His Grace and Mercy. May His love for us all inspire us to transmit to others the gifts He has bestowed upon us.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Encyclical for the Feast of the Indiction 2014

08/25/2014

“In the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge, until the storms of destruction pass by.” Psalm 57:1

Beloved in the Lord,

The new ecclesiastical year always begins with a certain excitement, anticipation, and joy as parish programs resume after their summer hiatus. The summer break has refreshed us, providing us with the energy that will propel our ministries, advancing the life of our Church.

This year though our new year begins as we watch the tragedy of the Middle East continuing to unfold. Our fellow Christians and other religious minorities in Iraq have been singled out for persecution and possible extinction. The word genocide should not be invoked lightly, but many are afraid that this is precisely what is transpiring. In parts of Africa and other parts of the world as well, Christians are being actively persecuted.

Our most natural response is to grow angry, seeking to lash out against the prosecutors, to harm or even destroy them. But as His All-Holiness our Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has recently stated, “Violence never is pacified by violence, and hatred is only overcome by tolerance.” As difficult as it is, we must advocate for a peaceful and just resolution of this crisis, without the spilling of more blood or adding to the destruction. As Gandhi said so many years ago, “an eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”

Without adding to the violence already occurring, we can do something to support those who are in danger. First, we must lift our voices to the Most High God and pray for our persecuted sisters and brothers. “Hear the voice of my supplication as I cry to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward Your most holy sanctuary,” says the Psalmist (Psalm 28:2). For this reason, I ask all the clergy of this Metropolis to include a petition in the Great Synapte for our persecuted brothers and sisters. After the petition "for the city and country..." include the following: “for those being persecuted for their faith in the Middle East, Iraq, Africa, and throughout the world, that their suffering may end through peaceful means and they are safe from persecution and find freedom from oppression, let us pray to the Lord.”  Recite this petition until our brothers and sisters in these areas of strife find safety and tranquility.

Second, lift up your voices to those with political power. Again, as His All-Holiness stated, “We will not remain indifferent or silent before such irrational persecution, cultural intolerance and appalling loss of life, especially when it is caused by religious hatred and racial hostility.” Contact your elected officials in Washington stating that these Christians are our brothers and sisters who need our assistance. Remind the Senators and Congressmen that Christianity is threatened with extinction in the Middle East, disappearing from the Holy Land itself. Describe for them the constant threat of violence that Christians in parts of Africa and elsewhere in the world live under, merely because they are Christians. This is not hyperbole, but the reality of the situation. Call upon your elected officials to bear witness of this reality and to use the powerful voice of our nation to the whole world.

Third, as you begin your parish programs, include prayers and actions for the Christians of the Middle East, Iraq and Africa. Learn about Christianity in those lands. Participate with the relief agencies, such as IOCC, to bring aid and assistance to those in need. Pray for them. Use knowledge, charity and intercession as your chief weapons to combat this crisis.

May the One God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – the most compassionate and lover of humanity, grant peace to us all in this new Ecclesiastical year and always.

With Love in Christ,

@ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Encyclical for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary

08/01/2014

“O protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame, mediation unto the Creator most constant: O despise not the supplicant voices of those who have sinned; but be thou quick, O good One, to come to our aid, who in faith cry unto you: Hasten to intercession, and speed thou to make supplication,  thou who does ever protect, O Theotokos, them that honor you.”

Beloved in the Lord,

We enter the period of the Dormition or Koimesis fast, preparing for the Feast of the Falling Asleep of the Virgin Theotokos, at a most troubling time for our world. As part of our preparation for the Feast of the Dormition, our parishes will be open, offering regular Paraklesis or Supplication Services to the Virgin Mary. The opening hymn of the small Paraklesis begins,

“I ask you O Virgin, from the dangers deliver me; for now I run to you for refuge, with both my soul and my reasoning.” These words resonate more powerfully in our hearts as we consider the state of our world at this time.

Every day in the news, we see the terrible conflict between the peoples of the Middle East. We are sickened at the photos of endangered and suffering Christians being threatened with exile from their homelands or worse, merely because they are Christians. We feel powerless at the threat of their extinction from lands where Christianity had thrived for millennia. The stories from Ukraine of corpses lying in fields are deeply disturbing, while loved ones wait to merely receive their bodies for proper burial and mourn their losses, prevented by the warfare in that land. And these are only the tragedies that are reported to us. Who knows what else, what other tragedies occur in our own cities and neighborhoods that do not make the headlines?

This year, as faithful and devout Orthodox Christians, let us use this blessed season to turn to the Mother of God and implore her to intercede to her Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to bring peace and reconciliation to our world.

As I am sure you know, there are dozens of titles given to the Virgin Mary in our tradition. These epithets point to the many roles she plays in the lives of Christians and in the Church. This year, as you pray to the Theotokos during a Paraklesis Service, use these titles to focus your prayer. Consider the following.  We call her “Directress”, the Hodegetria. In your prayer ask her to direct the powers of the world to work for peace and justice for all humanity. We call her “Sweet kissing”, the Glykofilousa. In your prayer, ask her to kiss the wounded and relieve them from their pain. We call her the “Merciful”, Eleousa. In your prayer, ask her to comfort those who have lost so much in our world's many conflicts. We call her “She Who quickly hears” Gorgoepikoos. In your prayer, ask her to hear the pain in our voices and distress in our hearts. And finally, we call her the “Protection of Christians” Prostasia. In your prayer, ask her to embrace and protect our brothers and sisters in the Middle East and any other part of our burdened world from dangers that surround them daily. And, as the hymn which opens this pastoral letter cries out, pray that she comes to our aid.

As I greet all those that will celebrate their Feast Day on the 15th of August, I pray that our Lord, through the Intercessions of His most Pure Mother, grant to all God's Grace and Mercy.

With Love in Christ,

+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Passing of Presvytera Krissy Flesoras

07/10/2014

Beloved in the Lord,

“Give rest, O God, unto Your servant, and appoint for her a place in Paradise;
where the choirs of the Saints, O Lord, and the just will shine forth like stars;
to Your servant that is sleeping now do You give rest, overlooking all her offenses.”
Funeral Service, Benedictions

It is with great sadness that I share with you the news of the passing of Presvytera Krissy Flesoras. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Presvytera Krissy reposed peacefully tonight surrounded by her family. We offer our support, love and prayers to her husband, Rev. Dr. Christopher Flesoras, and their children, Constantine (age 8) and Gianna (age 5).  We also extend our deepest sympathy to their extended family and their parish of Saint Anna in Roseville, California. Throughout her illness, Presvytera Krissy was a beacon of faith in Jesus Christ and she is now rejoicing in the loving embrace of her Lord.

Details on funeral arrangements will be forthcoming.

May her memory be eternal!

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Encyclical for Pascha 2014

04/12/2014

"And he said to them, do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, 
who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here; 
see the place where they laid him." 

Mark 16:6

Dearly Beloved,

We have reached the goal of our Lenten and Holy Week journey. Today we approach the tomb of our Lord and Savior and, like the women in the Gospel, we find it empty. Only an angel is present, a messenger of God, telling us: "He is not here. He has risen." This is a simple message, a few words, yet one that not only transformed the disciples, but transformed the world. The Jesus Christ Who was born in Bethlehem of Mary, had lived among his people, taught them with great authority, healed their ailments, forgave their sins so that they would experience the love of God the Father, and yet was rejected by these same people and suffered a most horrible death on the cross and buried in a borrowed tomb had risen from the dead. As St. Gregory the Theologian states so profoundly, “We needed an incarnate God, a God put to death, that we might live. We were put to death together with Him that we might be cleansed. We rose again with Him because we were put to death with Him. We were glorified with Him because we rose again with Him.” (St. Gregory the Theologian, Easter Oration)

Our proclamation of the resurrected Christ is the core of our Christian Orthodox Faith. As St. Paul said to the Corinthians, “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:14). Every tenet of Orthodox Christianity must revert back to our faith in Jesus Christ and his triumph over death, from our understanding of God as Trinity and Jesus as the Son of God to our understanding of the Church and how we are to live as Christians today. All these and more begin in the experience and witness of the disciples of the Risen Lord. This is the apostolic faith we maintain and proclaim.

Proclaiming Christ is at the heart of our Church and the life of our community. Everything we do as a Church must reflect Jesus Christ, His life, His teachings, His care for humanity, and His death and resurrection. Our communal and personal behavior must be consistent with our words and claims to be followers of Christ. Our liturgical life is focused on Christ. Our educational and philanthropic life must reflect Christ.  Our outreach and evangelism must proclaim Christ. As St. Peter wrote so many centuries ago to Christians who did not know Jesus as Peter knew him, “Without having seen him you love him; though you do not now see him you believe in him and rejoice with unutterable and exalted joy.” (1 Peter 1:8). And yet we have seen Christ's Resurrection. We hear the Good News and we are there at the empty tomb. We have become witnesses of the Risen Christ and have put our trust in Him and His teaching.

And for this reason, our Paschal season is filled with baptismal references, reminding us of the commitment we made to Christ at our own baptism. The candles we hold at Pascha and for the next forty days are the same candles that were held at our baptism. Then and now, we made a commitment to following and proclaiming the light of Christ in a world filled with darkness. This is why St. Paul could tell the Christians in Ephesus, “Now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8).

We proclaim the Resurrection of Christ in the safety of our country. Our Church lives in freedom. But for countless Orthodox Christians in the world, raising their Paschal candles, proclaiming their faith in Jesus Christ and participating in the life of the Church- indeed, even just attending – is filled with risk and mortal danger. These are today's martyrs, holding up the light of their faith in places that seek to extinguish it. These are the new saints, witnesses for their faith, willing to accept their fate, while still striving for peace and understanding with those who do not believe. In these days of celebration, remember your brothers and sisters who live under these conditions. Pray for them as St. Paul prayed, “Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

And so when you gather with family and friends, share your faith as well as your hospitality. Share the joy that the Good News of the Resurrection brings to the world and cry out to all, without fear or hesitation:

Christ Is Risen! Truly He Is Risen!

With Love in Our Resurrected Lord,
+  G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Encyclical for Great Lent 2014

02/28/2014

Beloved in the Lord,

The two words most of us would probably use to describe our lives are “too busy”. Some have said that all of us suffer from a hyperactivity disorder. We are too busy shuttling to and fro, from activity from home to work, to school, and more. We are too busy with email, online shopping, reading, and social media. And in our state of seemingly perpetual motion, we are also often too busy for God, Church, and our spiritual life. Is there a remedy for our exhausting pace? Our Lord and Savior cries out to all who are too busy, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me; for I am gentle 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). Our Lord Himself is calling us to slow so that we can turn to Him.

For centuries, the Christian Church has used the period of Great Lent as a time for inner reflection and meditation. In Latin the term “lent” means to slow down. A lento passage in music is played slowly. Great Lent, in other words, is meant to be our time to slow down, to take a rest from our usual pace and refocus and redirect our lives towards Christ and His Church. All the discipline of Great Lent – the fast, the study, the prayer, the philanthropy – are all intended to give us time for reflection and refocusing our lives.

But this is not an easy task and the Church honestly and realistically communicates this struggle to us. At the Vespers beginning Great Lent we hear the following: “Let us set out with joy upon the season of the Fast, and prepare ourselves for spiritual combat. Let us purify our soul and cleanse our flesh; and as we fast from food, let us abstain also from every passion. Rejoicing in the virtues of the Spirit may we persevere with love, and to be counted worthy to see the solemn Passion of Christ our God, and with great spiritual gladness to behold His holy Passover.”

Calling Great Lent a time of spiritual combat reminds us that none of our Lenten disciplines come easily to us. There are too many distractions that can take us away from God, that can pull us away from His love. Resisting the distractions is part of the combat we must endure. The hectic pace of our regular lives is one of those distractions. We can choose to say no to the non-essential demands on our time; we can choose to simplify our schedules and diets so that we can attend divine services, to spend more time in private prayer, and to read scripture. Our Lord calls us to Himself to find rest and to experience the peace we all desire. And we can find this peace in our Church, which shows us the way.

But these days of rest and reflection are not ends unto themselves. Great Lent will culminate in a celebration, a time of joy: the Resurrection of our Lord. The Good News that we will proclaim at Pascha is not meant to be hidden under a bushel, but to be shared. When the women found the empty tomb they ran to the disciples to tell them the Good News (Matthew 28:8). Likewise we are meant to run to all corners of the world to proclaim the Resurrection and to bring all people to Christ and His Church. So, this Holy season of the Great Fast is a period of preparation we need so that when we experience the empty tomb, when we experience the Resurrection in our lives, we will be able to run and share the Good News with the world.

I pray that this Holy and Great Fast Season be a time of many blessings from our God to you and your beloved families.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Christmas Encyclical 2013

12/17/2013

Dearly Beloved,

In his beautiful and rich homily on the Feast of the Nativity of the Lord, Saint Gregory the Theologian advises us: “Run after the star, and bring gifts with magi, gold, and frankincense and myrrh, as to a king and a God . . . . With the shepherds give glory, with the angels sing hymns, with the archangels dance. Let there be a common celebration of the heavenly and earthly powers.” (Oration 18). In this one statement we can find guidance from the past that is still meaningful for our celebration of the Birth of Christ today.

In this season, amid all the preparations, we run after many things, searching for the right decorations, searching for that “perfect gift” in store after store. The “perfect gift” has already been delivered: Jesus Christ, Son of God and Son of the Virgin Mary. The catalogs promise happiness in things but ultimately the “things” we will open will be put away and eventually be replaced by newer “things” in our lives. The gifts that bring happiness are the gifts of faith and family. The advertisements urge us to consume as a means to show our joy. The Church urges us to askesis, through fasting and abstaining from superfluous past-times and things, as the way to prepare ourselves to receive that “perfect gift” – Christ in the season and in the Holy Eucharist. This is a time for joy, filled with light and celebrations, but search for the proper measure in all these. Let us be like the Magi, who ran after the star and found the King, the Messiah, the Savior of us all.

The shepherds, at the urging and hymns of angels, found a child and worshiped Him, lying in a manger. In our celebrations of the Feast, we must dedicate time for prayer and worship by participating in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church, but also in our daily lives. Sing the hymns of the Church, the hymns of the angels and the hymns of the season. When you attend the Divine Services of this season, lift your voices with the angels and praise God, “for to us there has been born, a little child, God before all ages.” (Kontakion of Christmas, Saint Romanos the Melodist)

This praise is offered most fully in the congregations, in the shared celebration of the Body of Christ which is the Church. Be sure this year to join with others in your celebration, as the Church, as a family, and as a community. Welcome all to your celebrations; in this season there can be no strangers. There must always be “room at the inn”. In this Nativity season, reach out to the lonely and outcast, and in this act of brotherhood, you will see Christ Himself. As Saint Paul wrote about Jesus He “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:7)

For the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord is more than a celebration, more than a festival. It is a profound statement of our faith in the Most High God Who was and continues to be at work in our world.  In the Christmas Gospels, we hear how Christ is to be called “Emmanuel” meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). In all times and places, in all eras of history, the Good News of the Incarnation is to hear that God is with us, that He has not abandoned us, especially today, and that He continually loves and cares for us all.

For all these reasons, my beloved, we must be like the Magi and Shepherds who sought out the newborn Christ, and offer our gifts and glory to God in the highest. Praying that your Christmas be a time of many blessings from above to everyone, I remain,

With Love in the Incarnate Logos,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Clergy-Laity Assembly 2014

11/27/2013

Beloved Clergy and Parish Councils of the Metropolis of San Francisco,

“Where there is no vision, the people will perish…”
Proverbs 29:18

Each year the clergy and leaders of our parishes gather for our annual Clergy-Laity Assembly which provides us with the opportunity to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church.

The 2014 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be held February 24 – 25 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. As specified in the Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance, comprised of the following:

  1. The Parish Priest.
  2. The President of the Parish Council, and in his or her absence the Vice President, or in his or her absence any member of the Parish Council designated by it.
  3. Two members of the Parish elected by the Parish Assembly.

Please make sure this important item is placed on the agenda of your upcoming Parish Assembly Meeting so that you may elect these delegates to ensure full participation from your parish. A detailed agenda and registration materials will be provided no later than 60 days prior to the convening of the Assembly.

Last year we shared with you the initial progress of a Strategic Plan being developed to guide the future work of our Metropolis. We are pleased to share with you the completed plan at this year’s Assembly which we will be bringing into full implementation to guide all aspects of the life of our Metropolis. Your engagement in this process will be vital to its success.

I look forward to the active participation of each of our parishes and I am grateful for the leadership you offer throughout the year to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be a beacon of God’s love in your communities.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Thanksgiving Encyclical 2013

11/27/2013

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

“Oh give thanks unto the Lord for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.”
Psalm 107:1

Thanksgiving is a holiday that gives us the opportunity to gather with family and friends, share in fellowship, and pause to reflect and give thanks to God for the abundant blessings in each of our lives. It is a beautiful tradition of expressing our gratitude on Thanksgiving, but we should carry the spirit of this holiday to every day of the year, so that giving thanks becomes a regular part of our daily lives.

Let us first look at the historical significance of this holiday. Thanksgiving was a day to give thanks for the blessing of the harvest. The Pilgrims and the Puritans brought this tradition with them when they emigrated from England in the early 1600’s. It also has roots in various religious and cultural traditions. President George Washington designated the first celebration of Thanksgiving in 1789. Now nearly 400 years later, Thanksgiving in America has become a day filled with an abundance of food, football games, pumpkin pie and shopping.

The word “thanksgiving” is defined as: the act of giving thanks; grateful acknowledgment of benefits or favors, especially to God. This, my beloved brothers and sisters, should be our focus for this celebration. Before the turkey is carved, before the cranberries are passed, let us gather as a family in Christ, giving thanks to God for His blessings. Regardless of the challenges we face personally or collectively as a society, we all have reason to offer thanksgiving to God. Whether young or old, healthy or sick, rich or poor, blessings still abound! We have the unconditional love of Jesus Christ, we have the hope of eternal salvation through Him, and we have His grace. These are but a few of the most meaningful blessings we have been given by God.

We also have the ultimate act of thanksgiving, the Holy Eucharist, which is offered to us at each Divine Liturgy. This is the true feast of Thanksgiving, the offering of the Body and Blood of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the remission of our sins and for everlasting life. We do not need to wait until the fourth Thursday of each November to celebrate Thanksgiving, for the invitation to the real meaning of this day is offered to us each week. Would you accept an invitation to someone’s home for Thanksgiving dinner but not partake of the food? This would be inconsiderate to your hosts. However, do you come to Divine Liturgy and when the Holy Chalice is brought forth, do you not accept the invitation from Christ?

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, remember to first and foremost give thanks to God. And, let us prepare ourselves physically and spiritually for the great Feast of Thanksgiving, the Holy Eucharist, and become true partakers of the Lord’s most precious gift.

Giving thanks to the Lord for each of you and your love for Jesus Christ and wishing you and your beloved families a most blessed Thanksgiving, I remain,

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Typhoon Haiyan - Your Prayers and Support are Requested

11/13/2013

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

“Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble,
and He brings them out of their distresses.
He calms the storm, so that its waves are still.”
Psalm 107:28 – 29

Typhoon Haiyan has left a major path of destruction in the Philippines, with thousands injured, homeless and hungry, and a death toll that is still difficult to calculate. Sustaining winds up to 235 miles per hour, torrential rain and the storm surge has impacted the lives and livelihoods of thousands of people, some in remote areas where rescue personnel have not yet been able to reach.

We lift up our hearts in prayer for the people in the Philippines who are suffering from this tremendous catastrophe. Homes and families have been lost and generations will forever be impacted by the wrath of Typhoon Haiyan. It is during times of tragedy and natural disaster that we must come together, as brothers and sisters in Christ, to share our gifts and love for the benefit of those who are suffering. Therefore, I am asking that our parishes pass a special tray on Sunday, November 17 for the relief efforts of Typhoon Haiyan. The Metropolis of San Francisco will direct all contributions to the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) as they mobilize to respond to the needs of these people.

Checks should be made payable to the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco and all donations forwarded to: 245 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. We will send the collective support of our Metropolis to IOCC to provide for the relief efforts for the people of the Philippines who need food, clothing, shelter, and medical services.

Thanking you for your prayers and generosity and beseeching the Lord for His grace, peace and mercy upon all those who are suffering, I remain,

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


Encyclical for the Feast of Indiction 2013

08/27/2013

Dearly Beloved in the Lord,

A new ecclesiastical year always begins with great promise and great hopes. Energized and revitalized by the summer months, we are ready to return to the routines of family, school, and parish life expecting that this year will be better than the previous. On September 1, we will pray for the protection of our environment, following the guidance of our Ecumenical Patriarch. In just a week, the liturgical cycle of Feasts will commence with the Nativity of the Theotokos and in that cycle, we see the great promise of our Heavenly Father to send the world a Savior being fulfilled.

Because we have seen the promise of the Father fulfilled in His Son, we are empowered by His Holy Spirit to go out into the world proclaiming His loving kindness. As Christ told His disciples, “As the Father has sent me, even so I send you,” John 20:21. We have been commissioned by Christ Himself to be messengers of the kingdom of God, to continue Christ's mission of preaching good news (Luke 4:18, Isaiah 61:1) to the world. This new ecclesiastical year, with all of its beginnings of ministries, of feasts, of events and programs, provides us with the opportunity to recommit ourselves to Christ's call.

Yet we attempt to live our faith and minister through our parishes in a new time and context. While “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), the institutions of the Church face many changing circumstances. As one commentator put it recently, “We are in the beginning of a time whose lasting characteristics have yet to be defined” And so the Church  must find new ways to continue its historic and saving work to provide for the faithful to encounter these changing times effectively.

Our Metropolis for the last year has been actively involved in developing a Strategic Plan of goals and initiatives so that our faithful can go out into the world, utilizing their tremendous talents and gifts to share the Gospel and the message of our Holy Orthodox Church. Our Strategic Plan has many goals, from improving the quality of our worship and liturgical life, developing new structures for education and evangelism, and expanding our stewardship and philanthropy. These are the means for building up of the people of God, the Body of Christ. We have set forth an ambitious agenda in this plan. But when hasn't the Church's agenda been ambitious? In this coming year, as we release the plan and begin its implementation, I encourage you to see it not as “business as usual” but as an instrument for finding those new ways to preach and live the Gospel.

In the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, an exclamation and prayer that is reserved for the bishop goes as follows: “Lord, Lord, look down from heaven and behold and visit this vineyard and perfect that which Your right hand has planted,” Psalm 79/80:15-16. Every day I include these words in my prayers for every parish and our Metropolis, and indeed the Church as a whole. May they be our words as we work together to build up the Body of Christ in this new ecclesiastical year.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Encyclical for the Feast of the Dormition 2013

08/01/2013

Beloved in the Lord,
 
For the next fifteen days, Orthodox Christians  will prepare to celebrate the Dormition of the Theotokos. Being one of the most significant Feasts of the Virgin Mary in our liturgical calendar, it is the only one that begins with a fasting period. For these two weeks we will engage in the spiritual discipline of fasting from certain foods, under the direction of our parish priests. A fast is a discipline of avoidance, removing what is extraneous in our lives, to remind us of what is really important and necessary. This fast like all fast periods should focus our attention on the need for God in our lives.
 
Our parishes will offer the Service of Supplication, the Paraklesis to the Virgin Mary. This is the spiritual discipline of engagement involving us more intentionally in prayer and worship. In the Paraklesis, we call out to the Mother of God as our protector and guardian. These services are continual reminders of our belief that the intercessory prayers of the Theotokos to her Son are beneficial to our lives.
 
We honor the Virgin Mary and supplicate to her for intercession because she is the loving Mother of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She always points to her Son. Look at her in the various icons of the Church, holding her Son, but always directing our attention toward Him and away from herself – an example of the sacrifices that all mothers make for their children. Look at how this scene is reversed in the icon of the Dormition, when the Son holds the soul of His Mother. While our attention is drawn to Mary in her bier, we cannot avoid seeing the presence of her Son. A tradition of this Feast from long ago says that Christ Himself entered the room where she lay to receive her soul from the angels that carried it to Him. Tradition tells us that when the Apostles returned to her tomb a few days later, the tomb was empty, her body was gone, and only a sweet fragrance remained.
 
Over the next two weeks, I invite you to consider the significant role of the Virgin Mary, the Theotokos, in our Orthodox Church. Search her out in Scriptures. Listen for her name in our worship, noticing how our prayers end with a supplication to her. See her and venerate her in the holy icons. In each of these, consider how the Church continually turns to this extraordinary woman, this beautiful mother, and this role model for humanity. The Virgin Mary shows all people that a life dedicated entirely to God leads to union with God.
 
Extending my personal wishes to all those who celebrate their Feast Day, I pray that through the intercessions of Theotokos may we enjoy this fasting period and joyfully celebrate the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God.
 
With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Life in Prison – A Lesson of Faith


06/08/2013

A reflection by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco

It was a typical afternoon in my office at the Metropolis of San Francisco. I was responding to phone calls, answering emails and sorting through my mail. I came across an envelope from someone whose name I did not recognize, but the return address was clearly from a prison. I opened the envelope, wondering who the sender was and what the content might be. Much to my surprise, the letter was from a group of four male Orthodox inmates wanting to share their personal stories with me about their journey with the faith along with a simple request that someday I might be able to visit. For the past six years, these men have been ministered to by one of our Metropolis priests, but they somehow felt compelled to write to me directly, seeking my blessings and visitation. Their sincere and humble words were also marked with doubt, knowing that many obstacles would need to be maneuvered, and that many other Christian leaders had previously tried unsuccessfully to penetrate the walls of the prison.

However, as great as these obstacles might be and regardless of the rigors of my schedule, I was struck by the intensity of their words: “We hope that more than ‘hearing of the ear,’ we will, God permitting, one day ‘with the eye see You,’ in the words of the Righteous Job (42:5). We pray that God’s providence will allow for Your visitation and blessing of this prison….where no Bishop of Christ has walked before. All four of us are serving life in prison, and so when we pray ‘For this holy House, and for those who enter it…’ we really mean the permanent place of our earthly sojourn”. Their letter continued, “Your Eminence, please pray for us, that Christ may complete what He has mercifully commenced in our lives. Pray that we may remain on the road of repentance and faith, that we may be obedient…and that we may keep in our hearts that ‘Pearl of Great Price’ which has thus far kept us.”

It was at that very moment I called the priest who ministers to these men and, through God’s grace, we were able to arrange a visit to the prison. Yes, there were obstacles; forms to fill out, security clearances and scheduling. Everything fell into place and our visit was scheduled for Friday, April 26, 2013. The day finally arrived and, as we traveled to the prison, I prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom and strength to provide for the spiritual needs of these men. Then, I looked up and facing me was a concrete city, surrounded by barbed wire with numerous guard towers watching over the prison. Accompanying me was the priest who has become their spiritual father, and a recent Holy Cross graduate. We were warmly welcomed by the prison staff. They told us we had to wear security vests. The staff were very kind and respectful, allowing me to place the vest under my robe, and letting me wear my engolpion into the prison, even though we were not permitted to bring in any other personal articles.

Now, after all this preparation, the heavy doors slowly started to open and the prison guard led us to what the prisoners refer to as a “steel and concrete labyrinth”. We were about to enter unfamiliar territory, but we all knew that the power of God would guide us in this special ministry, and that the Holy Spirit would give us the right words to nourish their hungry souls. We spent an hour together. Words like “powerful”, “humbling” and “life-changing” can barely convey the impact this afternoon had on all of us.

Following a rather intense yet uplifting conversation, I led these devoted men in reciting the Prayers for Holy Communion, and offered to them the Body and Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ. They approached the Holy Sacrament with humility, with tears of repentance, and with deep and abiding faith. I also prayed for the healing of their souls and bodies, anointing them with Holy Oil of Saint Nectarios. I gave to each of them a small cross and icon card of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, as a reminder of our common faith, and to encourage their continued prayer life for the strengthening of their souls.

Within a week of my visit to the prison, I received another letter. This time, recognizing the sender’s name. I opened the letter, eager to hear from these men with whom I shared a meaningful dialogue about our faith, God’s love, and the power of forgiveness. Here is what they said:

“At first, it was unthinkable: would a simple letter of invitation result in a visit to our prison by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco? Then, it was unlikely: His Eminence wanted to come, but how could he – in the midst of services of the Great Fast – and with all the administrative red tape; the complexity of visitor approval on such a short notice? After all, we remembered the sad experience of the Roman Catholic bishops, who a few years ago attempted to penetrate our concrete ‘Jericho’, but the walls didn’t budge. Finally, as things miraculously fell into place the visitation drew near, it became downright frightful!”

The letter continues on to describe the moment we walked through the yard door, escorted by a lieutenant from the prison. The prisoners wrote, “We kissed the hand giving the blessing; we were speechless…. We sat and listened, two things became apparent: the Metropolitan didn’t come to give a pep talk or for a photo-op; he really saw us and desired to know us as persons – who we were and how we came to the Faith….He came to impart to us Christ’s truth, which we are not always ready to receive.”

“His Eminence spoke about the ‘real life’, which was not to be found outside of prison, in prison, or even in ourselves – that is, in our thoughts, wants, occupations – but only in Christ, in a life hidden in God. We were reminded of our ultimate blessing to be possessors of that life, no matter our past or what brought us to prison (to be sure, everyone who gathered around Metropolitan Gerasimos that day is serving life for murder). He said that the only substantial difference between the so-called ‘free’ life and life in prison is its structural regimentation, and the reason why the Church Fathers make us feel uncomfortable is because they call us to that higher life outside of ourselves – in Christ, regardless of where one finds himself, on whichever side of the barbed wire.”

Their profound letter concluded with a reflection on their personal struggles. They stated, “It is often through difficulties that God’s love draws His prodigal children home. The Metropolitan said that even though we can’t always know God’s will, we can always know His love and mercy….Our hierarch told us at our parting ‘we are never alone.’ The Saints are praying for us, the ‘great cloud of witnesses’ (Hebrews 12:1), with whom we are partakers in Christ….It is still difficult to believe that the invisible Christ was visibly present to us through His ministers. And yet, as we set our hearts on the events of Holy Week and turn our gaze toward Holy Pascha, we know by faith that this is what always happens in Christ, Who is ‘God with us’: the Crucified and Risen Savior filled our empty man-made tomb with His eternal life, illuminating sinners sitting in the shadow of death. May we keep His grace in our hearts, through the prayers of our spiritual father, and of our hierarch!”

The lesson to be derived from this pertains to all of us, because God offers His healing power of forgiveness unconditionally. Whether we are confined in a physical prison or are a prisoner to our own sins, we have the opportunity and blessing to receive God’s grace and mercy. Forgiving ourselves, forgiving each other, and ultimately seeking the Lord’s forgiveness…these are all acts of great faith and are the stepping stones to salvation.

The location and identities of those involved have been omitted for their privacy.


Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday

06/06/2013

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

Χριστός Ἀνέστη! Christ is Risen!

“…I was in prison and you came to me…” Matthew 25:36

Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday has been designated by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops to be observed on the Sixth Sunday of Pascha, which is this Sunday, June 9, 2013. This ministry is vital to those who are incarcerated and is a way for us, as Orthodox Christians, to share God’s love, mercy and compassion with these men and women who are in need of our prayers.

Recently, I had the opportunity visit with four inmates at a California State prison and my time with them was truly inspirational. The depth of their knowledge of the faith and their love for Jesus Christ was evident through the articulate words that they shared with me. They also expressed their humility and gratitude, knowing that even with the significant mistakes they have made in their lives, that our loving and forgiving God still accepts their prayers, as He does from all of us sinners.

I ask that each parish in our Metropolis please take a special collection in support of the Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM). They provide extensive resources – books, bibles, icons and other materials – to people who are in prison, all free of charge. It is not our place to pass judgment on these men and women, but rather we must show compassion, love and forgiveness as we have been taught by Jesus Christ. Please direct contributions to:

Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry
P.O. Box 468,
Fleetwood, PA 19522-0468

May the Lord open your hearts to respond with love and generosity for this important ministry.

With Love in Our Risen Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


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Paschal Encyclical 2013

04/29/2013

Dearly Beloved,

This night across our Metropolis our communities are overflowing. We have put on our best attire and gathered as a parish to celebrate our Lord’s Resurrection. Everyone is excited and in good spirits, anticipating the announcement of the Good News. We greet one another with joy. All of this reminds me of the verse from the great Doxastikon of Pascha, “Let us be glorious in splendor for the festival, and let us embrace one another.” I too, join you in this celebration and greet you in the name of our Resurrected Lord.

Most of you have gathered this night to hold a lit candle, to proclaim the Resurrection of Christ, and to sing the joyous hymns of our Church. A candle was placed in your hands at your baptism when you first proclaimed your faith in Christ the King and Lord of your life and you were united with Him. You became a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of the Most High God, who became one of us for our sakes. And, as Saint Paul writes to the Philippians , “Christ humbled himself and became obedient unto death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father,” (Philippians 2:8-11).

Tonight, as you hold the lit candle, you recommit yourself to that baptismal faith. In the Church you experience the Resurrected Christ. Tonight, as you sing the hymn “Christ is Risen!” you are proclaiming the single most important dimension of your Orthodox Christian faith. As Saint Paul writes, “if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain,” (1 Corinthians 15:14). Our belief in the Resurrection is the centerpiece of the Gospel. The teachings of the Apostles of Christ begin with this event. The Resurrection is the ultimate victory of God over the power of sin, Satan, and death. This victory is not just of Christ Himself but also a victory for all those who are united with Him. As the Apostle Peter writes “By His great mercy we have been born anew to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” (1 Peter 1:3).

Our Paschal faith is more than an experience of lit candles and joyful singing for just one night, or the repetition of an ancient ritual of long ago. If all the candles were missing and all the rituals and customs of our heritage were put aside, we would still proclaim the Resurrection with great joy. The Apostles were filled with the experience of the Resurrection and spread this Good news throughout the world. They established a Church where the experience of the Resurrection was translated into actions of service and ministry. We are today’s apostles. We have accepted the call to continue their mission in our time. The Doxastikon of Pascha commands us to speak and engage those “who hate us” and to “forgive all things.” These are the actions of reconciliation, of restoring relationships and of recognizing our solidarity and equality with all. Our faith in the Resurrection should compel us to share our faith with others and to work for unity and harmony among all people. Our baptismal Faith on this most glorious Feast of Feasts calls us to become servants of all and spread the Good News of God’s power over death and all adversaries that would keep us from His love and Goodness.

May the unwaning light of His Resurrection be your guide now and forever.

Truly He is Risen!

With Love in the Resurrected Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

On the Boston Marathon Tragedy

04/19/2013

Beloved in the Lord,

“The transformation of the afflicted, you are the cure of those in sickness,
Theotokos, O Virgin; save your people and your town.
You are the peace of those in conflict, the calm of those in turmoil,
the only protection of the faithful.”
Theotokion – Service of the Small Paraklesis


The Holy Eparchial Synod of our Archdiocese has issued the following statement on the tragic events in Boston, Massachusetts which occurred on Monday, April 15, 2013:

“On this day of shock and mourning, our hearts and prayers are with the victims of this latest horrendous terrorist attack. We express our unequivocal condemnation of all acts of violence and terrorism against society, which incite the justified indignation of all people who value human life, freedom and justice. We stand together with people of Boston, the participants of the Boston Marathon and their families and the people of our Nation as a whole. We call upon all our faithful to offer prayers for the repose of the souls of the innocent victims who lost their lives in these tragic events and pray for the healing of those immediately affected and for the Nation.”


We stand in solidarity with the people of Boston, those who participated in the Marathon, those who were injured, and especially with the families of those who lost their lives as a result of this senseless act of terrorism. This is a time for us and for all the faithful of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco to unite in prayer. Specifically, this Sunday, April 21, during the Great Litany of the Divine Liturgy, please include appropriate petitions asking God to heal the wounds of those who were injured, and also to grant repose to those innocent souls who suffered loss of life.

May our Lord Jesus Christ, whose Holy Resurrection we are about to celebrate, hear our prayer, and may He grant solace and healing to the families of the afflicted, the people of Boston, and to our Nation.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Encyclical for Great Lent 2013

03/14/2013

Dearly Beloved,

Great Lent is upon us once again. Our annual journey to the empty tomb of Christ has begun. This year, because of the late date for Pascha, the season may be more difficult. Spring is upon us and our minds will turn to plenty of other activities; our fellow Christians will have celebrated Easter even as we are still just entering the Great Fast. While we cannot expect society to understand our dedication to our ascetic disciplines, or to understand why we celebrate Pascha so late this year, this should not deter us from making every effort to observe the Fast, to attend the divine services, to partake in the educational offerings of our parishes, and to devote more personal time to prayer and to philanthropy.

This year I encourage you to accept the discipline of Lent with the depth of faith that they are intended to foster. We often treat the ascetic disciplines of Great Lent as if they were religious New Year’s resolutions, saying, “This year I will fast more strictly or attend more church services.” Like January 1st, we observe the resolution with great enthusiasm for a few days, but then we fall back into the usual routines. This is because piety alone is not enough for spiritual fulfillment, but rather, piety combined with good works. A hymn for the first week of Great Lent offers us the approach that we should have: “Let us begin, O people, the pure fast that is our soul’s salvation. Let us serve the Lord with fear; let us anoint our heads with the oil of alms giving and let us wash our faces in the waters of purity; let us not use vain repetitions in our prayers but as we have been taught, so let us cry: Our Father, who art in heaven, forgive us our trespasses in Your love for mankind.” (Apostichon, Tuesday Matins).

Notice how the hymn connects our spiritual life with our daily life. Ascetic disciplines are to be connected to our daily lives and to the world around us. When we reflect on our lives, when we look to the dysfunctions in our families and in our society, we cannot expect that lighting a few more candles or abstaining from certain foods on their own make a difference. The hymn calls us to combine inward piety with outward actions directed toward our neighbor.

Our religious practices are meant to lead us to better relationships with God, with ourselves, with our community, and with the world around us. The two must go together. Our Lenten goal should be to light a candle for our families and then work to reconcile any broken relationships in them. Our Lenten goal should be to participate in the Sacrament of Confession and then work to bring health and wholeness to our lives. Our Lenten goal should be to offer a prayer for the sick and the suffering in our communities and then volunteer our time to visit them. Our Lenten goal should be to abstain from certain foods and then offer a charitable gift to a homeless shelter or food pantry for those who live in poverty.

This combination of inward piety and outward acts has always been a struggle. Society encourages us to avoid what is hard; instead we continually send messages that everything can be easy. This can affect even our religious lives. Inward pious actions are often easier. Working to heal relationships, to care for the outcast, to give generously to charity is always harder. Combining them is the hardest of all. Yet, when we struggle – and askesis means struggle – we open ourselves to meeting Christ, in our prayer, in our service to our neighbor. And this is the purpose of Great Lent, a Holy Season that is upon us: meeting Christ, journeying with Him to Jerusalem, listening to His teachings, sitting at the table in the Upper Room, seeing Him betrayed, rejected, buffeted, crucified and buried; and finally witnessing for ourselves the empty tomb and the joy of His Resurrection.

Beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord, may His Mercy and Grace guide you to experience a most fruitful and meaningful Great Lent!

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Christmas Encyclical 2012

12/18/2012

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”
Isaiah 9:2

Dearly Beloved,

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

The Christmas season is a season of light. We see the decorative lights that brighten the night skies and herald the coming of the light of Christ into the world. The light has returned; the light of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior has shattered the darkness of the world. While natural cycles cause the darkness of winter, the real darkness is human pride, cynicism, and isolation which tear apart our relations with God, our neighbor and the world around us. The Nativity of Christ penetrates this darkness in the most unlikely of ways, the birth of a child. We expect God to act dramatically and with might to correct our world, to put things right. In the Church we often sing, “Who is so great a God as our God? He alone does wonders.” But not at Christmas, because in His Nativity, Jesus Christ enters the world in humility and poverty, almost unnoticed, except for a great light that draws attention. As a hymn of Vespers for Christmas says, “When the Lord Jesus was born of the Holy Virgin, all the world was enlightened. The shepherds watched in the fields, the Magi adored and the angels praised in song.

Most likely you will mark the coming of the light by decorating your Christmas tree with lights, placing lights in your home, or placing candles in your windows. Each one of these actions remind all who see them that yours is a Christian home and you have important news to proclaim: Christ is Born! and the world glorifies the Sun of Righteousness! The light has come into the world and his name is Jesus born of the virgin. Like the angles in the Gospels we will go to our churches and sing the doxology, “Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace among men” Luke 2:14.

Beloved brothers and sisters, do not let the darkness of our age overpower you. It is easy to be cynical and bitter at this time. The news is filled with ongoing war, financial disasters, endless political gridlock and widespread crime. But because we are Christians we know that God is with us. The Almighty God kept His promise to send a Savior of His people.  Christ Jesus is Born. He is Emmanuel; He has entered our world and never left us. We are not alone. We know this in our hearts and we experience this is our churches, we are hopeful people. We can reflect the light of Christ in our workplaces, among our friends and neighbors, in our communities. We no longer live in darkness, because we have seen the light of Christ. We can overpower the darkness of our time through kindness and respect for all people. We can do this by our willingness to be generous stewards and philanthropists in our churches and in our society supporting the many needs of both.

Parents will, in these days, read storybooks to their children at bedtime. They may attend a Christmas show at a theater. These are wonderful family experiences that will create a lifetime of memories. But do not limit a child’s understanding of Christmas to television specials or sugary spectacles that avoid the real story of Christmas. This year, one night, open the Bible and read the story of Christ’s Birth. Tell your children you have a beautiful story to share with them, one that changed the world and changes lives. Tell them it is a love story, a story of God’s love for all of us.

May the light of the Star of Bethlehem, the light of Christ, illumine your path and shine in your hearts in these Holy Days of Light.

Wit,h Love in Christ the Newborn King,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Message from Metropolitan Gerasimos on the Connecticut Shooting

12/15/2012

Dearly Beloved,

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them;
for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 19:14

Today our country witnessed a horrific tragedy in the shooting deaths of 20 children and seven adults at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. A distressed young man brought weapons into the school, killing both students and adults, creating an atmosphere of terror within the entire community.

There are not adequate words to offer consolation to those affected by this tragedy. Young lives, full of potential, were unnecessarily taken from their families. Parents who sent their children to school are now overwhelmed with anger and grief.

We offer, first and foremost, our sincere condolences to all those who have been affected by this tragedy. We also must remember in our prayers the families of all the victims, seeking God’s comfort and mercy upon them. It is important to also take comfort knowing that, even though these lives were taken in such a violent way, they are in the peaceful and loving embrace of our Lord.

The Christmas spirit should not be diminished by this senseless crime. Rather, it should serve as a reminder to us that each day is a gift from God, and we must be thankful for every moment we share together.  Please offer your personal prayers for the people of Sandy Hook Elementary School and all who are suffering, and also take a few extra moments with your own family, offering an embrace and a caring word to those you love.

May God grant eternal rest to their souls, and bring peace and comfort to the hearts of the community.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco


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Thanksgiving Encyclical 2012

11/18/2012

Dearly Beloved,

It is with great joy that I greet you on the occasion of this great American holiday of Thanksgiving. In 1621, after their difficult journey to the New World, the Pilgrims and Puritans celebrated this festival as a special thanksgiving to God for a bountiful harvest. President Abraham Lincoln established it as a national holiday in 1863, as a way of healing the devastating division of the Civil War. Today, it continues to be a special time of thankful remembrance and national unity.

For Orthodox Christians, too, this holiday provides a significant opportunity for spiritual edification.  As we are constantly thankful for “every good and perfect gift which comes from God the Father of lights” as we affirm at every Divine Liturgy, we remember during this holiday all the blessings in our life in a unique way.

St. Nicholas Cavasilas, who lived in 14th century Thessaloniki, offers spiritual instructions that are particularly notable this time of the year. In his book On the Life in Christ he advises that “nothing is more appropriate to the thinking mind than thoughts concerning Christ . . . to reflect on Christ and the things which He in His loving-kindness has devised for my salvation. This contains the very life that we seek and in all aspects makes us blessed.” In a society that was seemingly overwhelmed by political turmoil and religious fervor that prompted people to focus on personal sinfulness, this great saint prescribed a spiritual way of life for the average working person, a spirituality based on constant remembrance of all that God has blessed us with for our salvation.

Today, my beloved in the Lord, such a discipline is needed more than ever. On the one side, the United States is still suffering the effects of a divisive national election. The people of Greece are suffering tremendously under a faltering economy. While our own economy is slowly improving, many hard working Americans are still feeling the effects of high unemployment and decreased productivity. Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who lost much in the recent storms. On the other side, as we chant in the service of the Great Compline, throughout our times of suffering “God is with us – Ὅτι μεθ’ ἡμῶν ὁ Θεός.”

It has become a venerable tradition in this country, before beginning our Thanksgiving Dinner, to remember publicly those things for which we are thankful. I would encourage you to take this simple exercise seriously, to recall the significant yet overlooked blessings in our lives, and to remember that we are not thankful in general, but thankful to God. Without a doubt the thing for which we should be most thankful is that God, in His great love and mercy, became as we are through His incarnation. God knows our sufferings and our joys because He Himself became human and experienced humanity in all its depths and great heights. Because of this God is able to assist us to strengthen us along our own life journey.

St. Nicholas Cavasilas advises us to constantly remember in thanksgiving all that God has done and continues to do in our lives. The Holy Spirit is “a Treasury of blessings . . . present in all places and filling all things,” completing our existence with true love which is God Himself.  St. Nicholas prescribes this because he is confident that constant remembrance and thanksgiving will fill us with joy and inspire us to share God’s merciful love with those around us. Therefore, I exhort you to extend Thanksgiving beyond this one day, beyond the dinner table, beyond your homes. As a sign of thankful gratitude, reach out to those in need, whether it be material, spiritual or emotional. Share with them the blessings you have received; share with them the love with which God has blessed you. As Christ healed our broken human lives, practice patient and forgiving love (cf. Eph. 4:2).

On a personal note, I wish to publicly reaffirm that I am thankful to God for all of you and for the love and support you have shown to all those in your parishes. It is my prayer that the Giver of every good and perfect gift richly bless you, your families, your parishes and your communities this Thanksgiving holiday and all the days ahead.

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

P.S. In these difficult times you may wish to offer assistance to those in need through the good works of the IOCC (www.iocc.org) and your local food bank.


Hurricane Sandy Prayers and Support Requested

11/05/2012

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

“The storms of life do not frighten those whose hearts are ablaze with the light of your flame.
Outside is the darkness of the whirlwind,
the terror and howling of the storm.
But in their souls reign quiet and light. Christ is there, and the heart sings: Alleluia!”
An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation, Kontakion 5

During the last week, the devastation from Hurricane Sandy has impacted the lives of millions of people from the Caribbean and along the eastern coastline of the United States. The loss of life by means of a natural disaster such as this superstorm that roared through our oceans and land is difficult to comprehend, but we must remain faithful to God and trust His will in all things.

It is important that we come together during these times in prayer to God, seeking His compassion to bring calm to the winds and rain, restore wholeness to those who have been injured, and bring comfort to those who have suffered the loss of their homes, livelihoods, and beloved members of their families. We must also call to mind those in civil authority, who continue to risk their personal safety for the benefit of others – the police officers, firefighters, medical professionals and all those in public service – who have unselfishly offered their skills to alleviate the devastation that has occurred because of this storm.

While it may take weeks or even months for the areas distraught by this storm to regain normalcy in their routines, we must remain fervent in our supplications to the Lord for their continued peace and strength, that He will lighten their burden and that His Holy Spirit may bring them comfort.

Another way of demonstrating our love and support for the people who have been adversely affected by Hurricane Sandy is to share our financial resources to assist in the rebuilding of their homes and lives. Therefore, I am requesting that all parishes in our Metropolis offer a special tray on Sunday, November 11, as well as prayers for those who are suffering in the aftermath of this devastating hurricane. All donations should be sent to the Metropolis of San Francisco as we are working with the Archdiocese to see that these funds are delivered directly to the appropriate agencies to provide aid for those in need.

Extending my gratitude to each of our beloved faithful for your kindheartedness and benevolence, as well as for your continued prayers for the restoration of peace, I remain,

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

Light the Path - Support our seminarians!

10/25/2012

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16


For over 25 years, the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund (BAPSAEF) has been a vital source of our support for our seminarians and students attending Hellenic College/Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. It was the vision of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, to create an endowment fund so that anyone desiring to study for the Holy Priesthood not be hindered by financial constraints. In partnering with the Metropolis Philoptochos, the BAPSAEF had its humble beginnings and since that time has provided more than $2 million in scholarships to our seminarians and students. Our parishes have been blessed with clergy who have demonstrated tremendous commitment to serving the Lord in His Holy Vineyard, and I know that many of our priests have been the direct recipients of this exceptional generosity.

Each year, the Metropolis Philoptochos sponsors the Light the Path Christmas Luncheon which benefits this endowment fund and sustains the important support offered to our students. This year, there will be Light the Path events – one in southern California on Saturday, November 17 at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles; and one in northern California on Saturday, December 1 at the Holy Cross Church in Belmont. I ask that all our clergy and faithful participate in these events and support this important endeavor as generously as you are able.

Especially as Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology celebrates its 75th Anniversary this year, it is only fitting that we join with our Metropolis Philoptochos to celebrate this auspicious occasion and also honor them for they have been beacons of philanthropy, love and compassion for our students. We are the only Metropolis that offers this level of support to our students, and it will take the continued cooperation of all our parishes to invest in our Church by supporting Light the Path which will benefit the future of our clergy. Additional information on Light the Path is attached and can also be found on the Metropolis Philoptochos website or by calling the Metropolis Philoptochos Office at 415-431-2600.

I will be in attendance at both of these events, and look forward to personally greeting you and thanking you for the generosity and love for this ministry. May God grant you His abundant grace, peace and mercy, and Light the Path for more young men to follow His call to the Holy Priesthood!

With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Fourth Mode

The joyful news of your resurrection was told to the women disciples of the Lord by the angel. Having thrown off the ancestral curse, and boasting, they told the apostles: death has been vanquished, Christ our God. is risen, bestowing on the world great m

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."
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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Fourth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of man must be delivered in to the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise." And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told this to the apostles; but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them.

But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened.


Epistle Reading

The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Romans 13:11-14; 14:1-4

Brethren, salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed; the night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

As for the man who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not for disputes over opinions. One believes he may eat anything, while the weak man eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who abstains, and let not him who abstains pass judgment on him who eats; for God has welcomed him. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for God is able to make him stand.


Gospel Reading

Forgiveness Sunday
The Reading is from Matthew 6:14-21

The Lord said, "If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

"And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."


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Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco - Meditations

Love: American Style

02/02/2015

by Rev. Father Theodore Pantels

From 1969 to 1974 the T.V. series entitled, Love: American Style ran on ABC. It was a comedy featuring episodes of people falling in love and being swept off their feet over some external beauty or character trait, while working out some petty issues which always seemed to get resolved by the end of the show, leaving everyone being happy ever after. People remember it as a fun show but the truth is that it was all fantasy.

Tragically, fantasy too often seems to become a part of our “reality” in our present culture. We have our ideals about the way things should be and, when they are not what we expect them to be, we become disappointed. Too often, disappointment turns into anger—and anger can lead to tragic results. Truth be told, anger never solves anythingFrom road-rage to domestic violence — and on to violent protest demonstrations, anger is be-coming an ugly “normal” for a nation that would otherwise prefer to celebrate even a single day of romance.

February 2015 finds us celebrating Valentine’s Day on one week and entering the holy season of Great Lent soon afterward. There are few things “American Style” about Great Lent. At the same time, there are also few things “American Style” about the Sacrament of Holy Marriage. In many ways, living the Sacramental life-style of Holy Marriage requires the spiritual discipline and effort that Great Lent imposes upon all of us.

“American Style” is soon changing our dictionary, however. Terms such as forgiveness, repentance andresponsibility, if they are not fading from the vocabulary altogether, their meanings seem to be changing.Forgiveness is now something others need to ask from us, rather than the other way around. Repentance now means, at best, “self-improvement, or, “being sorry.” Responsibility is viewed as the other person’s job to be accountable. Such “love” may be “American-Style,” but it is far from Christian love.

For Orthodox Christians—especially as we study the mentality of the Saints—forgiveness, repentance andresponsibility are all defined by our relationship with Jesus Christ our God. Forgiveness is granted by our Lord“as we forgive others who trespass against us.” It is impossible to define the word repentance without having God in mind—repentance is not simply “change of heart,” “self-improvement,” or “being sorry.” It is turning to God and willingly seeking to put on the Image of Christ within us. The word responsibility can best be defined in the con-text of the glorious Second Coming of Christ, Who will call us all to account for our lives on the Awesome Day of Judgment. So, you see that without God, words that should turn us on to becoming a loving people are actually empty of their meanings.

Hence, Great Lent is the season for forgiveness, repentance and responsibility. Holy Marriage is the stage on which forgiveness, repentance and responsibility are played out. Valentine’s Day needs to translate into more than flowers, boxes of chocolate and lots of alcohol.

In a world in which online sites such as Christian Mingle and E-Harmony, serve as vehicles for “proxenia” (προξενιά), call it “old-fashioned,” but the best place to meet a perspective spouse is in Church. That is where those words that make the world go around take on their real meanings. Too often a young man and a young woman come to apply for the Sacrament of Marriage, only to discover that, in their dating relationship, the topic of religion hasn’t even been raised, as if the issue of one’s religious values is some “secondary issue.” My advice: forget “Love: American Style” and talk about God while dating. Put Christ into the relationship and keep Him there. Then, words such as forgiveness, repentance and responsibility no longer remain “just words,” but become a fruitful and rewarding lifestyle, filled with God’s grace—where the words, “I love you,” have true value.

Holy Marriage and Great Lent go hand-in-glove. They are paths that lead us to God’s Kingdom. We are left with the “House Church.” Let’s pay attention to the final words of the Divine Liturgy: “Let us go forth in peace!” We are not supposed to simply “leave church”; we are supposed to “go forth” — to take the Church with us. Our cars are to become the Church; our homes are to become the Church; our businesses are to become the Church and “every good and perfect gift comes from God, the Father of Lights.” 


Receiving Grace by Reflecting God’s Love

01/02/2015

by Rev. Fr. Luke Palumbis

                                                                        

“O Lord our God, who have placed times and seasons under your own authority;  who in your infinite compassion and goodness, have counted us worthy to enter a  New Year of your loving kindness, bless it and keep us in peace.”

From the Doxology on the 1st of the Year Service

The faithful begin each chapter of life with God. In glorification, at the beginning of the calendar year, we thank our Heavenly Father for allowing us to enter into a new year, and we make requests of Him. Active requests are made of God to bless the present time, and the time ahead. Furthermore, we request that He maintain us in His presence, which equates to peace for a person of faith.

We often are consumed with the New Year’s tradition of resolutions…a tradition that is coupled with a wink and a nod of disbelief. Perhaps this year an abandonment of this often empty tradition is wise, and a willingness to commit to the shepherding of the Church will yield more substance in our lives. In truly praying the words of the New Year’s Doxology, His grace can be received and experienced, immediately transforming the world with divine substance and beauty. This transformation is the aim of the Christian life, yet it is not one that can be experienced by a spectator, it must be witnessed by an active participant.  To receive the gifts that God has already offered to mankind, the faithful must engage an active Christian lifestyle.

“Prayer is a request for what is good, offered by the devout of God.  But we do not restrict this request simply to what is stated in words…We should not express our prayer merely in syllables, but the power of prayer should be expressed in the moral attitude of our soul and in the virtuous actions that extend throughout our life…This is how you pray continually — not by offering prayer in words, but by joining yourself to God through your whole way of life, so that your life becomes one continuous and uninterrupted prayer.”

Saint Basil the Great, Homily on the Martyr Julitta

To receive the Lord’s blessings in this New Year, and to maintain His peace, the faithful must find ways to share His blessings and presence with others. The words of the New Year Doxology Service are offered with superficiality if they are not made whole with efforts to share the Love of God. How can we, the faithful, truly enter 2015 with a desire to do better? In order for anything to be good, it must be connected to God. We the faithful should enter this New Year with a willingness to receive the Lord’s blessings through an engaged Christian life that strives to share the Love of God.

Beginning today, how can our neighbors witness the Love of God through our relationships with them? Better diet and exercise are indeed worthy goals. Receiving the blessings of God by virtue of sharing them with others is a worthy life. There is no experience more substantive than a life worthy of Christian title — such is true happiness!

May 2015 be a Happy New Year, filled with God’s grace through our active choice to live Christianity each and every day!


Celebrating the Life and Ministry of Metropolitan Anthony

12/02/2014

by Rev. Fr. John Hondros

                                                           

On December 25, the Feast of the Nativity in the Flesh of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ, it will be ten years since His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco fell asleep in the Lord.  It was providential that this creative, dynamic and faithful hierarch reposed on this date, when we Orthodox Christians celebrate the Incarnation of the Son of God – for as Metropolitan Anthony wrote a few days before his passing, “I have always insisted on an incarnational way of doing theology that reflects this constant movement from ‘word’ to ‘flesh,’ from the abstract to the concrete, from the intangible to the human touch.”

These words of our late bishop were just a small part of an amazing encyclical, “The Mantle of Elijah,” which he described in his opening lines as his “apologia, an accounting of my ministry and service to the Church . . . in order that those who come after may have a clear understanding of what we set out to accomplish.”  For those of us blessed to have known and served under Metropolitan Anthony, he was forward-thinking, a practical visionary, a builder, a cheerleader and, at times, a harsh critic of those who attempted to squelch the growth of our Church, whether at the parish, Metropolis, national or universal level.  Just as “the Word became flesh” (John 1:14), our faith must also be “ incarnated,” wrote the bishop:  Our faith “acquires real substance in programs that elevate and inspire our people, in ministries that carry on the work of the Church, in concrete actions that demonstrate our love for others and our commitment to carrying out the work of the Gospel.” 

If we take the time to listen and reflect on the Orthodox readings and hymns for the Nativity of Christ, we will see that God Himself is forward-thinking and a practical visionary, willing to come in the flesh when the world was spiritually lethargic, in order to personally restore us to His Kingdom.  He Who created all things is both the builder and the cornerstone, and “we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” (Ephesians 2:10)  Jesus Christ is the cheerleader for the underdogs, the outcasts, the disregarded and those who suffer for His Name’s sake:  He is likewise the harsh critic of those who are selfishly rich, ungrateful, falsely pious, judgmental and indifferent, and especially of those who curse and actively fight against the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church, which is His Body. 

For us Orthodox Christians, the real and essential meaning of Christmas, for our salvation, is that this newborn Child is the pre-eternal God, Who becomes fully human without ceasing to be what He is, the second Person of the Trinity . . . and born from a Virgin so that we might be reestablished, by grace, as the children of God.  The true celebration of Christmas for us Christians cannot be limited to a one-day event, but rather must be a life-long labor of love in response to God’s unfathomable gift of Himself to the world:  Metropolitan Anthony deeply understood this and spent his entire ministry inspiring others to wake up to this “good news,” and reach out to our children, dig deep in our pockets, place the shovel in the earth, to worship actively and from the heart, and to do whatever it would take to build up the Body of Christ for generations to come.

This Christmas, let us remember that Jesus Christ was born in the flesh to give us fallen humans the kick in the pants we desperately needed, and to offer us a second chance to dine with Him at the eternal banquet. Let us also give thanks to our Savior for the leadership and ministry of Metropolitan Anthony, who I am sure is serving as the master chef in His Kingdom.


With Thanksgiving

11/02/2014

by Rev. Father Michael Courey
                                                                          
Thanksgiving Day is my favorite national holiday.  I love Thanksgiving because its seems to me to be the only holiday that has not become over commercialized, nor has our society, for the most part,  lost the meaning or the purpose of this day.   Even the popularity of football during this season cannot compete with the power of people gathered together to give thanks to God for the abundance of the blessing He has bestowed upon us.  

Recently, in social media, there has been a challenge that I have enjoyed watching develop.  The challenge is to post your favorite Bible verse.  For me this first challenge is quite difficult, because there are so many verses in the Bible that I love, and so to pick a favorite one is a difficult task.  If, however, I may take the liberty to modify this challenge to my favorite Bible verse for the month of November, or to narrow the scope down even further, for the feast of Thanksgiving, the task becomes quite simple.  My choice is Philippians 4:6, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

This verse is part of a greater passage read every year in the Orthodox Church on Palm Sunday (Philippians 4:4-9), and is one of my all-time favorite Bible passages: “Rejoice in the Lord always.  Again I will say, rejoice.  Let your gentleness be known to all men.  The Lord is at hand.  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God: and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.  Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.  The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.”

I have been making a conscious effort to make every morning a type of Thanksgiving Day.  In my private prayers and meditations I speak to God and thank Him for the wonderful outpouring of grace that I have received from Him.  I thank Him for the family and friends He has blessed be with.  Finally, I thank Him for the challenges and difficulties that He has allowed me to experience in my life, for through every trial and tribulation, He has never left me nor forsaken me, and for this I am eternally grateful.  May we give thanks to God every Thanksgiving Day, every month, every day, every minute, with every breath that we take!

Converting a Psychological State into a Spiritual State

10/01/2014

by Rev. Father Timothy Pavlatos

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Earlier this summer, I took a one-week trip to the Monastery of St. John the Baptist in Essex, England, founded by Archimandrite Sophrony, a disciple of St. Silouan the Athonite, in 1959. This was my second trip in the last five years and it was very memorable. One of the highlights of this pilgrimage was the opportunity I had sit down with one elder, Fr. Zacharias, who spoke on a variety of topics concerning the spiritual life. In this article, I want to share with you briefly; one of the themes he shared with a few others and me. I would like to start with a quote from one of his books, The Hidden Man of the Heart (pp. 145-146).

“We frequently suffer pain and hurt on the psychological level when we encounter events that crush our heart. But we must rise about the negative experiences and we do so by exploiting the heart-felt pain of a particular incident and convert it into spiritual energy. Fr. Sophrony often stressed that we must learn to transfer every psychological state – whether due to illness, the scorn of other people, persecution, or the incapacity of our nature – onto a spiritual level by means of a positive thought. And we do this simply by keeping our mind in the place where the Son of God is. We think on those things that are on high, as St. Paul advised the Philippians” (cf. Phil. 4:8.).

Plainly speaking, Fr. Zacharias said in our meeting: “We must not leave anything in us hidden, but we must give everything to God. For example, Fr. Zacharias said, ‘I may feel very nostalgic about something. I remember, let’s say, my grandmother, and how pious she was, and how she used to pray long hours into the evening, how she was very giving, loving and tender. This is a psychological state. To convert this into a spiritual state, I would turn to God and say, ‘Lord, you have blessed me in countless ways. You have granted me every good gift from above. You have given to me a grandmother who is an example of your love and compassion. I express my deep gratitude to you who are my teacher and my God.’ Fr. Zacharias says, ‘In this way, I convert a psychological state into a spiritual one.’

Another example he says, ‘would be if I suffer physical pain or poor health. On a psychological level I could choose to complain about my condition, to grumble and to question God. If I leave this state within me, it will begin to eat away at my soul and I will grow to become bitter. If, however, I convert it into a spiritual state, I will open the way for God’s divine consolation and comfort. In this instance I will say, “Lord, you know my condition, you know my suffering and my pain. In your love for me and for all mankind, grant me the grace and the courage to endure my affliction with patience and thanksgiving, knowing that you are a good and loving God.”

A third example he states, ‘would be when I am admonished by one of my brothers at the monastery. Say, for example, that Fr. ____ , comes to me and says ‘Fr., I don’t like the way you pray in the services. You are very distracting to me. In addition, you don’t seem to care about the others here, only yourself.’ ‘On a psychological level this statement wounds me and my flesh wants to fight back, to defend myself. If I leave it at this level, I will certainly fall into sin, judge my brother and perhaps even wound him. However, if I struggle to convert this experience from a psychological state to a spiritual one, I will not defend myself.’

There are three levels of response in such a situation, each progressively greater than the one preceding it. “If we force ourselves not to answer back when we are admonished, then we are on the first step of the Ladder to perfection (according to St. John of Sinai). If we not only keep quiet, without reacting badly, but also realize that we are wrong and we blame ourselves for our mistake, then we are on the second step. If we give thanks to God that we have been rebuked for our benefit and our correction, we are on the third step. If we pray for the one who has wronged us and consider him as our benefactor, then we are one step higher on the ladder to perfection” (ibid. pp. 155-156).

In the same book, Fr. Zacharias goes on to say, “We should not live our psychological states on our own, we should share them with God Himself, with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Apostle gives us just such an injunction when he says, ‘If anyone is happy, let him sing. If anyone is sad, let him repent.’ That is to say, we can transform a psychological energy into a spiritual one – not only the sad energy, but even the happy one. If we are merry, we do not live our happiness only on a human level, but we lift our minds to God and we glorify our great Benefactor by giving thanks to Him. If we are full of admiration, then again we praise the all-wise Creator. All the time we refer ourselves to Him, and this attitude is very useful especially when we receive the ‘hard knocks’ of life, because in such critical moments, we will find a way out and God will console us. Many times, we pray and God does not answer our prayers, and the temptation or difficulty remains. But one thing happens which is even more precious than being delivered from the temptation: we receive the strength to rise above it. This is an even greater miracle” (ibid. pp. 153-154).

There is not a day that goes by that we don’t have the opportunity to convert a psychological state of mind into a spiritual one. This word given by Fr. Zacharias was very profound and has the power to transform our lives if we choose to apply it.


Celebrating Saints of our Family: A Family Ministry

09/01/2014

by Rev. Fr. Nebojsa Pantic

                                                                           

In reflecting upon Family Ministry, I am especially inspired by this year’s Clergy-Laity Congress Theme: “The Orthodox Christian Family: a Dwelling of Christ and a Witness of His Gospel.”

I am inspired by this one statement because it so aptly describes a Tradition of the Serbian Orthodox Church, in which I was born and raised, called “Krsna Slava” or your Family Feast Day Celebration.  The Krsna Slava was an innovation created as a result of the work of two great Missionaries of our Church: Sts. Cyril and Methodios.  These two young men from Thessaloniki were sent out by Patriarch Photios of Constantinople to bring Christianity to the Slavs which included many tribes: The Rus, Poles, Croats, Bulgars, and Serbs just to name a few. 

The clans of that entire region were extremely tribal and everything was focused on the strength of the local clan chief and his family.  Being polytheistic, they believed in a God of every element of the Earth, the sky, the stars, the moon, etc. yet none of those Gods were as important as the God (or Goddess) who protected your house, your family, and your clan.  Every family would have an enormous feast in celebration of the day that this particular God was celebrated, and the entire family and clan would gather around the person’s home in thanksgiving.  All family members, living and dead, would be involved in the celebration.

When the disciples of Sts. Cyril and Methodios made it to these regions they had at that point baptized hundreds if not thousands of people.  They were going from village to village baptizing the entire population in a river or lake. It was because of this necessity for practicality, and the very astute knowledge of the local culture that they had, that Sts. Clement and Naum took the lessons of their predecessors and Incarnated the Gospel in a way that the local tribes (the Serbs) would understand. 

Instead of having a God or Goddess who protected their home, they told the Serbs that they should have Saints who protect their home!  Saints are so much more powerful than Gods or Goddesses!  They have the power of Jesus Christ Himself! Lord God Incarnate!  That where two or three are gathered, Christ is in the midst of them!

It was from this beginning that Krsna Slava was born.  Every year Serbs from across the Globe celebrate their Krsna Slava based on a hereditary system (through the father of the household) that dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries which means that the family gathers around the Feast Day of the saint that has been their family’s protector for close to a millennium.  The service that is held at the person’s home (or now also traditionally held in church) is one of blessing the Slavski Kolach (a Blessed Feast-Day Bread), which is turned in a counter-clockwise fashion by the priest and the hands of every member of the family. Sometimes family members will even hold each other’s shoulders, much like the priests do during the service of Artoklasia. The Bread is broken, mimicking at the Mystical Supper, and wine is poured over it in a crosswise shape. The bread is then kissed by each member of the family, exchanging the greeting “Christ is in our Midst! He is and ever shall be!” with the priest and each other.  There is also Koliva (boiled wheat) made to remember all of those who have passed away, which is also poured over with the blessed wine in the shape of a cross. This liturgical celebration is done with the participation of the entire family.

It is incredible to think that my father’s Slava was his father’s Slava was his father’s Slava all the way to the time of Sts. Cyril and Methodios.  Every year for the feast of St. Luke the Evangelist (Julian Calendar) we gather together at the oldest living relative’s house, to gather as a family to thank God for preserving us as a united Christian Home, through the intercessions and prayers of our Patron Saint: St. Luke.   

Moreover, uniquely in Serbia, we are not baptized with the names of saints, because the saints are more than a personal moniker to our life.  They are the ones who gather our entire family together, so that as one unit, we can pray to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through their intercessions.  Our names nevertheless, serve as a reminder that we are all called to be Holy, to become saints, so that one day there can be a St. Slobodan or St. Branislav, or even, a St. Nebojsa.  In the meantime, I pray that this beautiful and unique tradition is but one example of how Family Ministry is perceived by our Holy Orthodox Church, and how we can be a witness to Christ’s Gospel, as a Family.


Mother of the Year

08/07/2014

by Rev. Father Christos Kanakis

                                             

Every year some parishes like to award and acknowledge an outstanding mother as “Mother of the Year”. You can imagine the reaction from the Greek mothers and their families that do not get this achievement each year. I chose to put an end to this dispute when I nominated the Mother of the Year to be the Virgin Mary. She is the Mother of God and the Mother to us all. No one challenges this recipient and everyone agrees that this honor belongs to the woman who is full of grace.

Why do we have such a devotion to the Panagia? Because she changed the course of the entire human race and its relationship with God by accepting her calling to become His mother.  No one else in the history of humanity has or will have this relationship to Christ as does the Virgin Mary. She holds her Son in her arms and in her Dormition her soul is held by her Son. This is why when we celebrate the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos it is not a sad event for the Panagia, but a joyful one as she meets her Son again.  

Our love, respect, and honor to the Theotokos is great and inseparable from our Liturgical life. The Liturgical calendar begins with the Nativity of the Theotokos on September 8 and ends with the Dormition of the Theotokos on August 15. Every service in the Orthodox Church commemorates and honors the Theotokos. She has countless icons attributed to her different miracles and is depicted as the Directress, Joy of All Who Sorrow, the Unfading Rose, and the Glykofilousa (sweet kiss). She is faithful, sweet, compassionate, and meek, yet she is the Protectress of all nations and the Mighty Defender or Ti Ypermaho (Akathist Hymn) of every city. The title Mighty Defender was once the title the Athenians gave to Athena, the mighty Goddess of War, to protect the city, but this same title is used for the Panagia. Though the Panagia is not a soldier, she is ceaselessly defending our Mother Church and protecting our faithful through her fervent prayers and intercessions.  She is powerful because of her faith and love for her Son. She is the example of what it means to put our pride, fears, anxiety, pain, and our doubts aside and follow what God calls us to do, and thus changing the entire world and giving it hope. Like in the Wedding of Cana, Mary never stops telling Christ when the sweetness and joy in people’s lives runs out and needs to be transformed.

As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos on August 15, let us emulate the obedience, humility and devotion of the Panagia, and let us honor her as our Mother of the Year.


Where Can We Really Find Paradise?

07/01/2014

by Rev. Father Michael B. Johnson

It’s a place we all want to go to. And I’m not just talking about Orthodox Christians – or believers of any kind. How many ads have you seen showing a sun-filled beach in Hawaii, or elsewhere in the tropics, with a headline that reads, “Welcome to Paradise”? And all you need is a plane ticket to get there!

I am convinced of one thing – latitude has nothing to do with it. I can say that because I once experienced Paradise at an Orthodox monastery in Estonia, not far from the Russian border. It was a monastery for women, and I was only a visitor there, part of an ecumenical delegation including many kinds of Christians from America.

I recall how our driver carefully eased the bus through a narrow gateway in the monastery walls. Once inside we drove slowly to the guesthouse, catching glimpses from time to time of black-robed nuns going about their duties, talking only to God.

For me, the experience didn’t really begin till I stepped off the bus onto the monastery grounds. The feeling was both unexpected and indescribable. One thing for certain - this was a place like none other. As it turned out, there was a very good reason why it should be.

Centuries earlier, when this was simply a forested landscape, shepherds were passing by when suddenly through the trees they beheld a vision. It was the Mother of God herself, walking through a clearing just beyond them. It took time for the shepherds to get up their courage but at last they entered the clearing itself. In one sense, the Lord’s Mother was nowhere to be found. But in another sense, she was there indeed.

To their astonishment, the shepherds found an icon of the Falling Asleep of the Theotokos, stuck in the branches of a tree. They reverently took it down, and gave the precious image to the Church. This of course is why the monastery was built on that very spot.

Before our visit ended, I was able to enter the monastery church and venerate the same icon those shepherds found. For a moment, I felt transported to another world. I had no trouble believing pilgrims had come here infirm or crippled to kiss that icon, and gone home well.

Paradise is not a geographical location, it is a state of being. It has been experienced in every orthodox country on earth, for there are holy places wherever there are holy people. Paradise is not about warm sunshine and sand that is hot to the touch. Instead it’s about hearts afire with the love of God.

Every person longs to experience the true Paradise, even though millions in our modern world always look for it in the wrong place. Still, we all want to be there because we all began there.

That’s why we say in the prayers of the Memorial Service – “Make me again a citizen of Paradise.”


The Importance of “Today” “Simeron” in our Spiritual Life

04/02/2014

by Rev. Fr. John Angelis

If you fall and break your leg, you go immediately to the hospital to set it and immobilize it, so that it will heal properly. You don’t postpone it for another day. We prioritize in life and do the important things first. The unimportant things can wait.

Our Orthodox Church also teaches us to prioritize our salvation. The Church uses the word “today” (“simeron”) in its hymns in order to remind us that God’s salvation comes to us “today,” in our present life, and it requires an immediate response from us. Let me share with you some examples from our Church hymns: “Today salvation has come to the world…”; “Christ is born [today], glorify Him…”; “Today Christ comes to be baptized by John…”; “Repent [today] for the Kingdom of God is at hand…” “Today is hung upon the Cross…” “{Today} is the Day of Resurrection…let us be splendid in it…”

The word “today” reminds us not only of the urgency of our salvation, but also that our salvation requires daily attention. We make a new beginning and live our spiritual life daily. As Fr. Florovsky, of blessed memory, used to say, “we are saved, we are being saved, we’ll be saved.” Our salvation is a daily continuous process.

The important things in life require work every day. The athletes in the Olympic games practiced daily in order to succeed and reach the highest level of their sports. The Major League Baseball teams are in Spring Training in order to be ready for their season. Our students are in school learning technology, critical thinking, and the accomplishments of our civilization in order to be ready for their careers.

As Christians we also need to work daily toward our salvation. We must come to our Church to receive the Holy Sacraments, and through them, the Grace of God.  We must study His Holy Word, in order to learn and grow spiritually. Remember how profound a single day can be.  Zacchaeus, a reviled tax collector, came to see Jesus and Jesus ate with him the same day. The publican went to the Temple, repented for his sins and received forgiveness from God that day. The Prodigal Son repented for his rebellion, returned to his Father and he was received that day as a beloved son.

Our Church is our “spiritual hospital” and our “spiritual school.” We come to Church to receive healing. God provides us with His saving, healing Grace through the Divine Services and Holy Sacraments. But we need to come to Church every Sunday, participate, and be connected to Christ. We should also take advantage of the opportunities we have during Great Lent to move closer to God. During Great Lent, our Church offers Vespers, Matins, Divine Liturgy, Great Compline, Pre-Sanctified Gifts, Salutations, Confession, and Holy Unction, all of which give us an opportunity to receive the Grace of God.

Let me conclude with a contemporary example: You might have a computer, but if you are not connected to an Internet server, you cannot send or receive messages. The Church is “God’s Server” and through it we receive the messages of God, and we share them spiritually with our brothers and sisters in Christ daily.


Who Is God Calling to Witness and Advance the Christian Faith?

03/07/2014

by Rev. Fr. Thomas J. Paris

The Lord, when choosing His twelve disciples, chose from an undistinguished and inconspicuous group of men and women. The Apostles were mostly fishermen.  The women who followed him and who hearkened to His every word had no royal blood or prominent careers. They, men and women, were regular people, responsible, eager to learn, happy to receive good news, who had a deep and burning faith in Jesus Christ. They also were faithful and lived in empowering hope.

The Lord didn’t choose from the elites, probably because they would be susceptible to pride that would not allow them to follow an average, nondescript man who came without credentials or pedigree. And yet these men and women were charged with proclaiming a new kingdom of love, forgiveness, and mercy and were instructed to love their neighbor as themselves. They were not provided with weapons of destruction.  Neither were they fortified with means of transportation or provisions of food and clothing.

And yet in a few short years they, with the power of the Holy Spirit, performed mighty acts that changed the course of mankind.  Not in an instant, but day by day, one foot following the other, one good deed succeeding the other.  It didn’t happen overnight, but they persevered and they, without fully appreciating what they had accomplished, changed the world.

They were joined by hundreds and thousands, until, in just a few centuries the entire Roman Empire, that at the beginning was underwhelmed, became overwhelmed by a simple message lived by unexceptional people who altered the course of history by their faith and acts of love.   They didn’t do it alone, for they knew that the Lord, the Holy Spirit was with them.  God had given them a mission.  They were undaunted by the skeptics, not defeated by those who wanted to undermine them and thwart their efforts.

This is the Christian Faith that has been bequeathed to us, to you and me.  The LORD has chosen you as faithful members to do an impossible worldly task, to change men and women, boys and girls into servants of the Almighty God.

I was asked to participate in a funeral for a woman whose name I recognized, but I just couldn’t recall her face. The day of the funeral, I was anxious to greet her family as I knew this would help me remember their loved one so that I could validate her virtues that had inspired people who knew her and that affirmed that she had led a meaningful life.

As I arrived at church, a woman greeted me who was not a parishioner, but who had been a close friend of the woman who had passed away. I commented, “She was a good lady, wasn’t she?”  I, of course, was searching for something to build my eulogy on. She immediately took the opportunity and with great eagerness proclaimed how she was a dear friend for over sixteen years and that she had meant a lot to her, and that others had even commented that the deceased woman, through her many acts of kindness, had changed the lives of those around her.

Once I had heard that, I knew that the Lord had given me what I was looking for. It tied into the Scripture that I was going to use from the Book of Revelation Chapter 21, “Behold I make all things new.” I related my experience to the deceased’s family and to all of her friends at the funeral.  I asked them, “Isn’t that what you and I would want inscribed on our tombstone?  Here lies a person who changed my life.” Isn’t this why Jesus Christ our Lord has put us on this earth to be His vessels changing the lives of each other?

We all have experienced the power of another’s witness to his or her faith.  How our mother, father, sister, brother, sister, teacher, friend or even someone we don’t know too well influenced our Christian formation? Throughout our lives God has sent us people bringing us messages and powerful examples of faith and love, leadership and sacrifice.  God, in His inimitable and surprising manner, delivers His messages to us through the most unassuming and often unattractive messengers, even through people we had judged harshly or who seemed so inept.

The truth that became clear to me, and I hope to you, especially to those who have accepted the mantle of leadership in our parishes, is the need to focus on God’s invitation and accept to be one of His apostles, disciples, children, and friends. We all must permit God to make us His vessels to change our fellow human beings and ourselves.

How can we, through God, change other people’s lives?  We know that it is not by telling them what to do. That is too easy. I believe the way the Lord uses us to change other’s lives is not by asking us to tell them what to do, but to show them what to be!


The Church Never Fails

02/01/2014

by Rev. Fr. George C. Bratiotis

 

With the month of  February upon us, we are still at the early stage of this New Year that God has given us. And Glory to God for this gift. I’m certain that many of  us made New Year’s Resolutions a month ago. Hmmm. ..how are we doing with those? How many of us have promised ourselves to worship and pray regularly, to prepare ourselves and to receive the Lord’s Holy Body and Precious Blood in the Eucharist? How many of us have made a promise to live and learn our Holy Orthodox Faith, which will be unto the salvation of our souls, in the light of Jesus Christ, Who said, “I am the light of the world?” How many of us have promised ourselves to become stewards of the Lord’s Church…to support her work and to work in some of the ministries of  our local parish? How many of the above promises have we  kept since the start of the New Year, or are we already finding excuses for not sticking to these promises?

As a parish priest, I often heard from my dear parishioners, “Father, the Church has failed us, so it really doesn’t make any difference if we neglect or reject doing those things that the Lord and His Church want us to do.”

Those who would make this claim,  usually  say  that the Church has failed  in that there is still war, still poverty, still illness and suffering, still hatred, lying, cheating and all kinds of even more serious sins. By this same logic, one could say that soap has failed, because there is still dirt in the world; medicine and doctors have failed, because there is still serious illness and death; laws have failed, because there is still lawlessness in the world.

The purpose of the Church is not to do away with war, poverty, illness, pain, sickness, or suffering. Rather, her purpose, with Jesus Christ as the High Priest of the Church, is to mold us into Christians – zealous followers of  our Lord.  And our work, guided by Christ’s teachings, made manifest to us in our Church, will make the world better than what it is. The purpose of the Church is to bring us to Christ’s message of salvation and to let us convey that message to all who would receive it. That’s what the Church is called upon to do and what She is doing, even while at the same time,  offering Christian ministry and Christian  fellowship to the world around us.

If self-appointed critics would just stop and think and, I daresay, look at what the  Church is and what She does, and what She accomplishes on a daily basis throughout the world, they would realize that Christ’s Church, our Holy Orthodox Church, never fails – She continues. Throughout the ages, She has accomplished much, even under the most dire of circumstances. Just imagine the millions who have been saved by Christ’s message heard in the Church!

No, the Church, by Herself,  is not going to change the world over. But the Church, with Christ’s message being proclaimed  there to people who will carry it, live it and share it, will be a formidable force for what will be “good and profitable”  for the souls of people in the world. And that has the potential to make a difference in the world and to even change it.

The Church has not failed and never will, as long as there are followers of Jesus Christ who, taking what the Church teaches  them, go out, in the Lord’s Name, to make this world a better place.

The Church has not failed. Yet, we often wonder…have we, God’s people, failed our Lord’s Holy Church?


Greeting the New Year

01/01/2014

by Rev. Fr. Constantine Efstathiu

On the first day of the New Year our Church commemorates the memory of one of her greatest fathers, Saint Basil the Great: a theologian, hierarch, philanthropist, defender of the Faith, nurturer of the poor and sick, and a man dedicated with all his heart and soul to Jesus Christ.  What an example of faith, love, and devotion! On the first day of the New Year, eight days after the celebration of our Lord's Birth, the Church also remembers our Lord’s circumcision and His receiving the name Jesus, which means Savior.

The feast of the Circumcision of our Lord is one of the feasts which seems to speak least to the soul of modern Christians. However, its spiritual content is very rich. It emphasizes our Lord’s abasement and humility in assuming our human condition and submitting to all the requirements of the Mosaic Law showing Him to be the fulness and completion of the Old Covenant.

Circumcision is no longer a religious requirement, but a true spiritual circumcision that brings about in us our complete submission and devotion to God is still necessary. A Circumcision of the heart must reach all our thoughts, all our desires, all our feelings, and excise everything that is in conflict with the search for God. The great commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart . . .” expresses very well what this circumcision of the heart means.

In Greek there are two words for time. One is chronos, the other is kairos. Chronos is time measured by the clock or the calendar, whereas kairos is time measured as opportunity. The Bible places the accent on time as kairos, that is, as a God-given opportunity. We stand at the beginning of a New Year. For us Christians there is no such thing as "marking time" or "killing time." Every second, every minute, every hour, every day, every week, every month of the New Year is a God-given kairos: the opportunity for us to know God, to love Him, and to serve Him.  Every New Year is another opportunity for us to gain eternity. So let us make every minute of it count for God, for others, for eternity.

Think for a moment on what one Christian can do in one minute. In one minute I can send a card of cheer to some person who is ill, discouraged, or sorrowful. In one minute I can speak a kind word to some lonely, disheartened person. In one minute I can make a telephone call to some shut-in to let him or her know that someone cares. In one minute I can say a good word for someone whose name is being slandered. In one minute I can put my arm around some child and give him love or offer a prayer for someone. If we make time for God in our minutes, the New Year will most certainly be blessed by God.

And if we make time for God it will be blessed, in all the circumstances of life, positive and negative. But will we make time for Christ and for His Church to honor Him and to worship Him? Will we find time for the things that abide forever, for the soul, for prayer, for faith and love? Why is it that some people find time for God and others do not? Is it that some people have more time than others? Is there anyone you know who has more than sixty seconds to his minutes or more than sixty minutes to each hour? The difference is not in the amount of time, but in how we use it.

Our Lord came to fulfill the law, which no one could keep, so that He might free us from its judgment and make us, through faith in Him, righteous before God. “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is of any avail, but faith working through love.”  (Galatians 5:6)  The feast of the Circumcision reminds us that truly “if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come,”  (II Corinthians 5:17).  Christ alone can give us true victory in life as we seek to change by His grace.  He alone can grant us new spirits, new hearts, new relationships, as we earnestly leave behind what belongs to the old nature and embrace what belongs to the new nature in the likeness of Christ. 

May Christ bless us to make His ways straight in our lives so that He may come and abide with us daily during the New Year, and may His presence bring us all renewed hope, faith, spiritual growth and joy.


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Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco - All

FDF Events this Sunday to Streamed - Watch Online!

02/12/2015

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festival is being held this weekend, February 12 – 15, 2015at the Marriott Anaheim Hotel. Over 3,000 people are expected to participate in these four days of festivities celebrating Faith, Dance and Fellowship. Now in its 39th year, FDF is the largest gathering of Greek Orthodox youth in the America.

This year, we are pleased to announce that live-streaming will be available for the following FDF events and activities:

Sunday, February 15, 2015 – Watch Online at www.yourfdf.org
7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PST Archieratical Divine Liturgy
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. PST Advanced Senior Competition Finals
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. PST Awards Ceremony

“We are grateful to the Department of Internet Ministries at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America for making this possible,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “This is a wonderful opportunity to share this ministry with the faithful from across our Archdiocese and celebrate the accomplishments of our youth.”

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will celebrate the Divine Liturgy, assisted by over 30 clergy from throughout the Metropolis. The afternoon will feature the Advanced Senior Competition Finals during which the final eight dance groups will compete with some of the most complex dances and music from numerous regions in Greece.  The evening’s Awards Ceremony will mark the concluding event at which the winners in the various categories in dance, music and choral singing will be announced.

Be sure to visit www.yourfdf.org to watch this exciting live coverage of the 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Feb 6 - 27, 2015

02/07/2015

Friday, February 6, 2015
Metropolis Commission for Orthodox Missions and Evangelism Board Meeting
12:00 p.m. Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA

Saturday, February 7, 2015
Museum of History and Industry – Seattle, WA
3:00 p.m. Opening of Greek Culture Exhibition
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA
5:00 p.m. Great Vespers6:00 p.m. All Saints Camp Fundraiser Dinner

Sunday, February 8, 2015
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Ordination of Deacon Daniel Triant to the Holy Priesthood
1:00 p.m. Ordination Luncheon

Thursday, February 12 – Sunday, February 15, 2015
Metropolis Folk Dance and Choral Festival   
Anaheim Marriott Hotel - Anaheim, CA

Sunday, February 22, 2015
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church – Scottsdale, AZ
8:00 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
1:00 p.m. Capital Campaign Luncheon
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Phoenix, AZ
6:30 p.m. Service of Forgiveness Vespers

Monday, February 23, 2015
Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church – Chandler, AZ
10:30 a.m. Orthros

Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
6:00 p.m. Pre-sanctified Liturgy

Friday, February 27, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Salinas, CA
6:00 p.m. Service of Salutations to the Virgin Mary


Love: American Style

02/02/2015

From 1969 to 1974 the T.V. series entitled, Love: American Style ran on ABC. It was a comedy featuring episodes of people falling in love and being swept off their feet over some external beauty or character trait, while working out some petty issues which always seemed to get resolved by the end of the show, leaving everyone being happy ever after. People remember it as a fun show but the truth is that it was all fantasy.

Tragically, fantasy too often seems to become a part of our “reality” in our present culture. We have our ideals about the way things should be and, when they are not what we expect them to be, we become disappointed. Too often, disappointment turns into anger—and anger can lead to tragic results. Truth be told, anger never solves anythingFrom road-rage to domestic violence — and on to violent protest demonstrations, anger is be-coming an ugly “normal” for a nation that would otherwise prefer to celebrate even a single day of romance.

February 2015 finds us celebrating Valentine’s Day on one week and entering the holy season of Great Lent soon afterward. There are few things “American Style” about Great Lent. At the same time, there are also few things “American Style” about the Sacrament of Holy Marriage. In many ways, living the Sacramental life-style of Holy Marriage requires the spiritual discipline and effort that Great Lent imposes upon all of us.

“American Style” is soon changing our dictionary, however. Terms such as forgiveness, repentance andresponsibility, if they are not fading from the vocabulary altogether, their meanings seem to be changing.Forgiveness is now something others need to ask from us, rather than the other way around. Repentance now means, at best, “self-improvement, or, “being sorry.” Responsibility is viewed as the other person’s job to be accountable. Such “love” may be “American-Style,” but it is far from Christian love.

For Orthodox Christians—especially as we study the mentality of the Saints—forgiveness, repentance andresponsibility are all defined by our relationship with Jesus Christ our God. Forgiveness is granted by our Lord“as we forgive others who trespass against us.” It is impossible to define the word repentance without having God in mind—repentance is not simply “change of heart,” “self-improvement,” or “being sorry.” It is turning to God and willingly seeking to put on the Image of Christ within us. The word responsibility can best be defined in the con-text of the glorious Second Coming of Christ, Who will call us all to account for our lives on the Awesome Day of Judgment. So, you see that without God, words that should turn us on to becoming a loving people are actually empty of their meanings.

Hence, Great Lent is the season for forgiveness, repentance and responsibility. Holy Marriage is the stage on which forgiveness, repentance and responsibility are played out. Valentine’s Day needs to translate into more than flowers, boxes of chocolate and lots of alcohol.

In a world in which online sites such as Christian Mingle and E-Harmony, serve as vehicles for “proxenia” (προξενιά), call it “old-fashioned,” but the best place to meet a perspective spouse is in Church. That is where those words that make the world go around take on their real meanings. Too often a young man and a young woman come to apply for the Sacrament of Marriage, only to discover that, in their dating relationship, the topic of religion hasn’t even been raised, as if the issue of one’s religious values is some “secondary issue.” My advice: forget “Love: American Style” and talk about God while dating. Put Christ into the relationship and keep Him there. Then, words such as forgiveness, repentance and responsibility no longer remain “just words,” but become a fruitful and rewarding lifestyle, filled with God’s grace—where the words, “I love you,” have true value.

Holy Marriage and Great Lent go hand-in-glove. They are paths that lead us to God’s Kingdom. We are left with the “House Church.” Let’s pay attention to the final words of the Divine Liturgy: “Let us go forth in peace!” We are not supposed to simply “leave church”; we are supposed to “go forth” — to take the Church with us. Our cars are to become the Church; our homes are to become the Church; our businesses are to become the Church and “every good and perfect gift comes from God, the Father of Lights.” 


FDF 2015 - A Vision for Faith and Heritage

01/26/2015

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festival will be held February 12 – 15, 2015 in Anaheim, California at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel. Now in its 39th year, FDF will welcome over 95 dance and choral groups from throughout the Metropolis who will participate in three days of friendly competition, while enjoying fellowship and developing lifelong friendships. This year, FDF welcomes a group traveling from Charlotte, North Carolina who will also participate in the weekend festivities.

This year’s FDF theme, Vision”, brings us together as Orthodox Christians through participation in religious services, prayer, dancing, singing and serving. FDF provides a multi-faceted way for thousands of Orthodox Christians to share Vision of faith, culture, and sharing God’s love through our actions and service to one another. The weekend will also commemorate the 10th anniversary since the passing of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, whose vision for the future of the church – and especially our youth – was brought to reality with the establishment of this ministry, which is still going strong after 39 years.

“I always look forward to FDF as it truly represents the future of our church. I am inspired by the vibrancy of our youth and the promise of a bright tomorrow through their faith, leadership and commitment to the Lord,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “It is appropriate that Vision is this year’s theme, because Vision will help us achieve new heights in our personal and professional lives, and most especially, in our church as we set our sights on higher goals to achieve greater things for the Glory of God. We also pay tribute to Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory for his vision to create FDF, and for his broader vision for the growth of our church to enrich the spiritual loves of the faithful in our Metropolis.”

The weekend begins by bringing the participants together at Opening Ceremonies on Thursday, February 12 as a family in Christian celebration.  It will feature the traditional parade of parishes, the Agiasmos service, and the presentation of scholarships.

Dance Competition will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the Choral Competition will be featured on Friday afternoon. Workshops will be offered on Friday and Saturday for all dancers and singers. These have become very popular in more recent years, with Metropolis Clergy and Youth Workers leading fun, interactive, and engaging discussions for all age groups. New this year are interactive symposia being offered to all attendees on topics such as, Leaning How to Chant, and How to Build a Youth Choir. Complete details on the workshops and symposia will be available when you arrive at FDF so be sure to attend as many as you can.

On Friday evening prior to the Glendi, FDF is honored to welcome a special guest speaker, S/SGT (Ret.) John Katsaros who served valiantly in the Air Force in World War II. He will share his inspirational story of survival which, up until recently, he was unable to tell as he was sworn to secrecy by the US government. A traditional Glendi will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings for everyone to dance the night away featuring some of the most talented musicians visiting FDF.

This year FDF is once again honored to welcome His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Archbishop Demetrios will lead the faithful in worship at the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy. He will also attend the Advanced Senior Competition on Sunday afternoon and the Awards Ceremony on Sunday evening. It is always a blessing to have Archbishop Demetrios visit the Metropolis of San Francisco and we know that all the participants at FDF will welcome the Archbishop with love and respect.

With over 3,000 people anticipated to attend throughout the weekend, and with so many spectacular events taking place, FDF is the place to be over President’s Day weekend. Come to Anaheim and be inspired by the amazing dancing and singing at FDF 2015. For more information, visit www.yourfdf.org. See you in Anaheim!


2015 Clergy-Laity Assembly Notice

01/21/2015

Beloved Clergy and Parish Councils of the Metropolis of San Francisco,

“Commit your work to the Lord and your plans will be established.” 
Proverbs 16:3

Each year the clergy and leaders of our parishes gather for our annual Clergy-Laity Assembly which provides us with the opportunity to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church.

The 2015 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be held April 27 – 28 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. As specified in the Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance, comprised of the following:

1.  The Parish Priest.
2.  The President of the Parish Council, and in his or her absence the Vice President, or in his or her absence any member of the Parish Council designated by it.
3.  Two members of the Parish elected by the Parish Assembly.

Please make sure this important item is placed on the agenda of your upcoming Parish Assembly Meeting so that you may elect these delegates to ensure full participation from your parish. A detailed agenda and registration materials will be provided no later than 60 days prior to the convening of the Assembly.

We are planning an enriching agenda that will include an update on the Strategic Plan and the many new opportunities it is providing for the enrichment of our parishes and our overall ministry as a Metropolis. We have been very fortunate to have enthusiastic leadership from our parishes for this effort and I know that you will be inspired by this God-pleasing work.

I look forward to the active participation of all our communities. Please come with an open mind and an open heart, ready and willing to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be a beacon of God’s love in your parishes.

With Love in Christ,
+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


2015 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival

01/18/2015

                                                                           Download The Flyer Here

The Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, established by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education in 1983, is an incredible opportunity for our Greek Orthodox children and teenagers to think about, research, write and speak publicly about their faith. Public speaking is a valuable skill that is beneficial throughout one’s life and professional career. Through this Festival, the Church provides a supportive and nurturing environment for our young people to become confident public speakers, and simultaneously give them the opportunity to learn about their faith. This is the second year that the Festival will also offer poetry and essay divisions. Junior and Senior Division participants may choose to prepare a poem or write an essay on one of the topics.

Every community in the Metropolis of San Francisco should plan for participation in this program, and host their parish festival before April 1, 2015. District Festivals will take place throughout the Metropolis in April. The Metropolis Oratorical Festival will be held on Saturday, May 9 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA.

This year our Metropolis is very proud to host the Archdiocesan Oratorical Festival which will be held June 5 – 7, 2015 at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church in Pasadena, CA. We are honored to welcome His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios who presides at the National Oratorical Festival each year.

Parishes should encourage their young people to write a speech, or a poem, or an essay. It is hoped that through this festival our young people will have another opportunity to learn about their Orthodox Christian Faith and Way of Life while they prepare and deliver their presentations.    

As a Church we are deeply concerned about the religious education of our young people, and the Oratorical Festival provides a wonderful and interactive educational opportunity for our youth. Therefore, every community should embrace the Festival for the benefit of our youth. Information packets will be sent to all communities to assist in organizing parish festivals.

Links for 2015 Oratorical Festival Manual, the list of official topics, and supporting information about the Festival, can be found: www.religioused.sanfran.goarch.org/oratorical.

Please see the Promotional Flyer attached. For more information or assistance, or if you would like this flyer personalized for your parish, please contact Dr. Eve Tibbs at religioused@sanfran.goarch.org, or Johanna Duterte at jduterte@sanfran.goarch.org.


Receiving Grace by Reflecting God’s Love

01/02/2015

                                                                        

“O Lord our God, who have placed times and seasons under your own authority;  who in your infinite compassion and goodness, have counted us worthy to enter a  New Year of your loving kindness, bless it and keep us in peace.”

From the Doxology on the 1st of the Year Service

The faithful begin each chapter of life with God. In glorification, at the beginning of the calendar year, we thank our Heavenly Father for allowing us to enter into a new year, and we make requests of Him. Active requests are made of God to bless the present time, and the time ahead. Furthermore, we request that He maintain us in His presence, which equates to peace for a person of faith.

We often are consumed with the New Year’s tradition of resolutions…a tradition that is coupled with a wink and a nod of disbelief. Perhaps this year an abandonment of this often empty tradition is wise, and a willingness to commit to the shepherding of the Church will yield more substance in our lives. In truly praying the words of the New Year’s Doxology, His grace can be received and experienced, immediately transforming the world with divine substance and beauty. This transformation is the aim of the Christian life, yet it is not one that can be experienced by a spectator, it must be witnessed by an active participant.  To receive the gifts that God has already offered to mankind, the faithful must engage an active Christian lifestyle.

“Prayer is a request for what is good, offered by the devout of God.  But we do not restrict this request simply to what is stated in words…We should not express our prayer merely in syllables, but the power of prayer should be expressed in the moral attitude of our soul and in the virtuous actions that extend throughout our life…This is how you pray continually — not by offering prayer in words, but by joining yourself to God through your whole way of life, so that your life becomes one continuous and uninterrupted prayer.”

Saint Basil the Great, Homily on the Martyr Julitta

To receive the Lord’s blessings in this New Year, and to maintain His peace, the faithful must find ways to share His blessings and presence with others. The words of the New Year Doxology Service are offered with superficiality if they are not made whole with efforts to share the Love of God. How can we, the faithful, truly enter 2015 with a desire to do better? In order for anything to be good, it must be connected to God. We the faithful should enter this New Year with a willingness to receive the Lord’s blessings through an engaged Christian life that strives to share the Love of God.

Beginning today, how can our neighbors witness the Love of God through our relationships with them? Better diet and exercise are indeed worthy goals. Receiving the blessings of God by virtue of sharing them with others is a worthy life. There is no experience more substantive than a life worthy of Christian title — such is true happiness!

May 2015 be a Happy New Year, filled with God’s grace through our active choice to live Christianity each and every day!


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos: Jan 1 - 31, 2015

01/01/2015

Thursday, January 1, 2015
Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church – Stockton, CA
8:45 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
11:30 a.m. Vasilopita Ceremony

Sunday, January 4, 2015
Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Oakland, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Anaheim, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers          

Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Anaheim, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 

Saturday, January 10, 2015
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Sunday, January 11, 2015
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
8:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
12:00 p.m. Epiphany Cross Dive, Luncheon and Vasilopita Ceremony

Friday, January 16, 2015
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church – Reno, NV
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers                        

Saturday, January 17, 2015
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church – Reno, NV
9:00 a.m. Orthros 
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
7:00 p.m. 50th Anniversary Dinner
 

Sunday, January 18, 2015
Metropolis Young Adult Winter Retreat – Lake Tahoe, NV

Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Pastoral Challenges in Marriage Conference
Presented by the Archdiocese Center for Family Care
Oneness: Growing and Protecting the Blessed Communion
DoubleTree Hotel - Santa Ana, CA

Saturday, January 31, 2015
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA?
11:00 a.m. The Celebration of the Feast of the Three Hierarchs and Ecumenical Teachers
Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian, and Saint John Chrysostom


Metropolis to Host Marriage Conference for Archdiocese Center for Family Care

12/29/2014

On January 28 – 31, 2015, the Center for Family Care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, with the generous support of Leadership 100, will host its second conference on Pastoral Challenges in Marriage at the Doubletree Hotel in Santa Ana, CA, entitled, Oneness: Protecting and Growing the Blessed Communion. The conference is for clergy, lay assistants, youth workers, mental health professionals, presvyteres, ministry leaders, and interested lay people, and will offer resources and tools, along with discussion and networking opportunities for clergy and laity regarding some of the pressing pastoral challenges in marriage today.

The keynote address for this conference will be offered by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. Other featured speakers will be Rev. Deacon Stephen Muse, Ph.D., and Dr. George Stavros. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the main speakers and other participants in workshops as well as deliberate on factors that contribute to and detract from the protection and growth of oneness in marriage.

For more information, please visit: www.family.goarch.org/oneness. Register by December 30 to receive the early bird rate. For questions, please contact the Center for Family Care at familycare@goarch.org or 845-424-8175.

Click Here for the Flyer


Ordination of Bishop-elect Apostolos this Saturday - Watch Online!

12/20/2014

Services begin at 8:30 a.m. EST www.thecathedralnyc.org

It is with great joy and anticipation that, by the Grace of God, Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco, will be Ordained to the Episcopacy on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York. The Divine Services will be presided by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, along with members of the Holy Eparchial Synod.

The faithful of the Metropolis of San Francisco are encouraged to view the services online through the “Live Services” link on the Cathedral’s website: www.thecathedralnyc.org.  Orthros is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. EST, followed by Divine Liturgy and the Ordination at 9:30 a.m. EST. These services will streaming live on the Cathedral website, and will only be able to be viewed while in progress, so be sure to factor in the difference for your respective time zone.

“This is a very important day in the life and ministry of Bishop-elect Apostolos of Medeia,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “Please keep him in your prayers as he answers yet another calling from God, that he may be sanctified and blessed as a Bishop of our Holy Orthodox Church.”

Following his ordination, Bishop Apostolos will return to the Metropolis of San Francisco as an Auxiliary Bishop working under the guidance and direction of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, and will be the Acting Chancellor of the Metropolis.

AXIOS!


Christmas Encyclical 2014

12/15/2014

                             “When the angels went away from them into heaven,
                                            the shepherds said to one another, 
                            ‘Let us go over and see this thing that has happened, 
                                      which the Lord has made known to us.’"

                                                            Luke 2:15

Dearly Beloved,

Two millennia have passed since the day when simple shepherds encountered the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem. In this season of hope, we too have been invited to go to Bethlehem and find the Christ in a manger. Amid the decorations and celebrations, the opportunity to encounter the living God is before us once again.

We encounter Christ in the Holy Scripture. We read the story of His Nativity in the Gospels 
of Saint Matthew and Saint Luke. We read the prophesies of His arrival in the Old Testament where we encounter the hopes of a people for a Savior, and their fulfillment in the birth of 
Jesus. In the scriptures, we see how God Himself appears on earth so that humanity may 
have fellowship with the Most High God. And we read His name is Emmanuel, which means, “God with us” Matthew 1:23.

We meet the newborn Christ in our churches, joining with our fellow parishioners and community in the liturgical services of this Festival. The story of Nativity will be repeated in the hymns and the readings. But more than tell us a familiar story, we will hear the meaning of the Feast: Christ is born and heaven and earth are united. As Saint Athanasios the Great said, “God became human so that humans could become God.” In the Liturgy, we meet Christ most directly and personally in the Holy Eucharist, receiving Him for the salvation of our souls and bodies.

We encounter the newborn Christ when we extend ourselves beyond ourselves and reach out to those in need through our service and philanthropy. Who among us has not been moved by the ongoing suffering of Christians in the Middle East, Africa and Asia? Who among us has not been troubled by the injustice and inequality in our society? These are opportunities for each of us to search our souls and extend our assistance to the voiceless, the powerless, and the oppressed.

We encounter Christ in our families and loved ones, especially the encounter of the young and the old. As we prepare for the Feast in our homes, use these moments to share experiences and memories, and listen to one another's hopes and joys. The greatest gift we can give to others in these days is the gift of our time and presence.

One of the most beautiful of Christmas carols is “O Come, All Ye Faithful”. The lyrics invite 
us to be like the shepherds and go to the place where Christ is encountered so that we may adore Our Lord, Jesus Christ. Bethlehem is always before us, in our homes, in our neighborhoods, and in our churches. In these joyous days of Christmas, seek Bethlehem and encounter the newborn King.

May the Love and Grace of our Savior, be with you and your loved ones this Holy Season of Nativity.

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
With Love in Our Incarnate Lord,

+ G E R A S I M O S

Metropolitan of San Francisco


10-year Anniversary of the Passing of +Metropolitan Anthony

12/02/2014

“When you have done all that is commanded you, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have only done what was our duty.’”
--Luke 17:10


Metropolitan Anthony 10 Year Commemoration by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos
The Mantle Of Elijah An Encyclical of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony 
A Reflection on the Life of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony by Rev. Fr. John Bakas
Celebrating the Life and Ministry of +Metropolitan Anthony by Rev. Father John Hondros
In Remembrance of +Metropolitan Anthony By Rev. Dr. Christopher Flesoras

Beloved in the Lord,

This Christmas, December 25, 2014, marks the 10th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, for it was Christmas Day 2004, when he departed from among us. He was a hierarch and shepherd with unique vision, a faithful servant of God's Will, and a true father to many of clergy and laity during his inspired 25 year ministry.

I have been a grateful recipient of the fruits of his labors and, along with you, I have tried to continue and build upon his God-pleasing work here in the West Coast. Just three days before his passing, Metropolitan Anthony published the attached encyclical, The Mantle of Elijah, which is a sincere and meaningful message and accounting of his service to the faithful of this Metropolis. This is an important document for all of us as we endeavor to actualize and expand his dreams and vision for our Church. As we now find ourselves ten years after his repose, our task is to bring to fruition these dreams, augmenting the vision he left for us to complete.

Additionally, I am attaching a biographical and poignant personal account of the life and ministry of Metropolitan Anthony, written by one of his closest friends and co-workers, Father John Bakas, the Dean of Saint Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles. I believe his view of Metropolitan Anthony is exceptionally personal and warm, and reminds us of Metropolitan Anthony’s ever-youthful but bold spirit.

I am instructing all the clergy in our Metropolis to conduct a Memorial Service for the eternal memory and rest of this Spiritual Father of our Metropolis on Sunday December 21, 2014. Additionally I am directing our priests to share with their congregations their personal thoughts of Metropolitan Anthony, as well as the attached information, which I know your faithful will find both spiritually edifying and uplifting. The Metropolis will organize other events to mark this anniversary in the near future.

May the memory of Metropolitan Anthony – a shepherd, friend, and faithful servant of the Lord – be eternal!

With Love in Christ,

+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Dec 3 - 28, 2014

12/02/2014

Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church – Santa Barbara, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Thursday, December 4, 2014
Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church – Santa Barbara, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Friday, December 5, 2014
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA
6:30 p.m. Great Vespers

Saturday, December 6, 2014
Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church – Stockton, CA
11:00 a.m. Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Light the Path Christmas Luncheon
A benefit for the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund.

Sunday, December 7, 2014
Young Adult Christmas Open House
Metropolis House – San Francisco, CA
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 11, 2014
Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church – San Diego, CA
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Friday, December 12, 2014
Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church – San Diego, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Saturday, December 20, 2014
Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity – New York, NY
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy and Ordination of Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco, to the Episcopacy
 

Thursday, December 25, 2014
Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral – San Francisco, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Sunday, December 28, 2014
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Portland, OR
8:45 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy


Celebrating the Life and Ministry of Metropolitan Anthony

12/02/2014

                                                           

On December 25, the Feast of the Nativity in the Flesh of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ, it will be ten years since His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco fell asleep in the Lord.  It was providential that this creative, dynamic and faithful hierarch reposed on this date, when we Orthodox Christians celebrate the Incarnation of the Son of God – for as Metropolitan Anthony wrote a few days before his passing, “I have always insisted on an incarnational way of doing theology that reflects this constant movement from ‘word’ to ‘flesh,’ from the abstract to the concrete, from the intangible to the human touch.”

These words of our late bishop were just a small part of an amazing encyclical, “The Mantle of Elijah,” which he described in his opening lines as his “apologia, an accounting of my ministry and service to the Church . . . in order that those who come after may have a clear understanding of what we set out to accomplish.”  For those of us blessed to have known and served under Metropolitan Anthony, he was forward-thinking, a practical visionary, a builder, a cheerleader and, at times, a harsh critic of those who attempted to squelch the growth of our Church, whether at the parish, Metropolis, national or universal level.  Just as “the Word became flesh” (John 1:14), our faith must also be “ incarnated,” wrote the bishop:  Our faith “acquires real substance in programs that elevate and inspire our people, in ministries that carry on the work of the Church, in concrete actions that demonstrate our love for others and our commitment to carrying out the work of the Gospel.” 

If we take the time to listen and reflect on the Orthodox readings and hymns for the Nativity of Christ, we will see that God Himself is forward-thinking and a practical visionary, willing to come in the flesh when the world was spiritually lethargic, in order to personally restore us to His Kingdom.  He Who created all things is both the builder and the cornerstone, and “we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” (Ephesians 2:10)  Jesus Christ is the cheerleader for the underdogs, the outcasts, the disregarded and those who suffer for His Name’s sake:  He is likewise the harsh critic of those who are selfishly rich, ungrateful, falsely pious, judgmental and indifferent, and especially of those who curse and actively fight against the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church, which is His Body. 

For us Orthodox Christians, the real and essential meaning of Christmas, for our salvation, is that this newborn Child is the pre-eternal God, Who becomes fully human without ceasing to be what He is, the second Person of the Trinity . . . and born from a Virgin so that we might be reestablished, by grace, as the children of God.  The true celebration of Christmas for us Christians cannot be limited to a one-day event, but rather must be a life-long labor of love in response to God’s unfathomable gift of Himself to the world:  Metropolitan Anthony deeply understood this and spent his entire ministry inspiring others to wake up to this “good news,” and reach out to our children, dig deep in our pockets, place the shovel in the earth, to worship actively and from the heart, and to do whatever it would take to build up the Body of Christ for generations to come.

This Christmas, let us remember that Jesus Christ was born in the flesh to give us fallen humans the kick in the pants we desperately needed, and to offer us a second chance to dine with Him at the eternal banquet. Let us also give thanks to our Savior for the leadership and ministry of Metropolitan Anthony, who I am sure is serving as the master chef in His Kingdom.


Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis Elected Bishop of Medeia

12/01/2014

Dearly Beloved,

It is with great joy that I wish to announce to all our clergy and faithful in the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco that the Holy Synod of our Ecumenical Patriarchate has elected the Very Rev. Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, the Chancellor of our Metropolis, as Bishop of Medeia.

His Grace Bishop-elect Apostolos shall serve under the Archbishop of America, as do all auxiliary bishops of our Archdiocese; however, he has been appointed by the Archbishop to serve the specific needs of our Metropolis, according to the regulations of our Holy Archdiocese. Thus, Bishop-elect Apostolos will occupy the position of Acting Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco and be responsible to the Metropolitan, while continuing his active involvement in the various ministries, committees and programs of our Metropolis. 

As your Metropolitan I have often noted that it is impossible for me to attend all the events that are taking place in our Metropolis. There are too many important activities throughout our Metropolis that require attention and prompt response. The geography of our Metropolis is quite vast and our parishes are very active, thus our Metropolis would be enhanced by the addition of a bishop. It is worth noting that adding a bishop to serve in our Metropolis was a goal of our Metropolis Strategic Plan, and one that should, over time, assist our Metropolis to grow and strengthen the ministries of our Church.

An auxiliary or titular bishop is not elected to an extant diocese of the Church. Medeia is an ancient city, where there once was a Christian community, but no longer. An auxiliary bishop is greeted as “His Grace” (Theofilestatos). When he celebrates the Divine Liturgy, he commemorates the ruling hierarch of the Metropolis. With the permission of the Eparchial Synod he, like all bishops, may perform all services that are reserved for the hierarchy.

Bishop-elect Apostolos has many desirable characteristics for a hierarch. Foremost is his faith in the Lord, and his love and fidelity to His Holy Orthodox Church and our Archdiocese. His care and concern for the clergy and the faithful of our Church is evident at every occasion.

Bishop-elect Apostolos will be ordained to the Episcopacy on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York. Meanwhile I ask that you include Bishop-elect Apostolos in your prayers, asking our Lord and all the Saints to strengthen him and keep him worthy of his new ministry.


With Love in Christ,

+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


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Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco - News

FDF Events this Sunday to Streamed - Watch Online!

02/12/2015

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festival is being held this weekend, February 12 – 15, 2015at the Marriott Anaheim Hotel. Over 3,000 people are expected to participate in these four days of festivities celebrating Faith, Dance and Fellowship. Now in its 39th year, FDF is the largest gathering of Greek Orthodox youth in the America.

This year, we are pleased to announce that live-streaming will be available for the following FDF events and activities:

Sunday, February 15, 2015 – Watch Online at www.yourfdf.org
7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PST Archieratical Divine Liturgy
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. PST Advanced Senior Competition Finals
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. PST Awards Ceremony

“We are grateful to the Department of Internet Ministries at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America for making this possible,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “This is a wonderful opportunity to share this ministry with the faithful from across our Archdiocese and celebrate the accomplishments of our youth.”

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will celebrate the Divine Liturgy, assisted by over 30 clergy from throughout the Metropolis. The afternoon will feature the Advanced Senior Competition Finals during which the final eight dance groups will compete with some of the most complex dances and music from numerous regions in Greece.  The evening’s Awards Ceremony will mark the concluding event at which the winners in the various categories in dance, music and choral singing will be announced.

Be sure to visit www.yourfdf.org to watch this exciting live coverage of the 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Feb 6 - 27, 2015

02/07/2015

Friday, February 6, 2015
Metropolis Commission for Orthodox Missions and Evangelism Board Meeting
12:00 p.m. Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA

Saturday, February 7, 2015
Museum of History and Industry – Seattle, WA
3:00 p.m. Opening of Greek Culture Exhibition
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA
5:00 p.m. Great Vespers6:00 p.m. All Saints Camp Fundraiser Dinner

Sunday, February 8, 2015
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Seattle, WA
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Ordination of Deacon Daniel Triant to the Holy Priesthood
1:00 p.m. Ordination Luncheon

Thursday, February 12 – Sunday, February 15, 2015
Metropolis Folk Dance and Choral Festival   
Anaheim Marriott Hotel - Anaheim, CA

Sunday, February 22, 2015
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church – Scottsdale, AZ
8:00 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
1:00 p.m. Capital Campaign Luncheon
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Phoenix, AZ
6:30 p.m. Service of Forgiveness Vespers

Monday, February 23, 2015
Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church – Chandler, AZ
10:30 a.m. Orthros

Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
6:00 p.m. Pre-sanctified Liturgy

Friday, February 27, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Salinas, CA
6:00 p.m. Service of Salutations to the Virgin Mary


FDF 2015 - A Vision for Faith and Heritage

01/26/2015

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festival will be held February 12 – 15, 2015 in Anaheim, California at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel. Now in its 39th year, FDF will welcome over 95 dance and choral groups from throughout the Metropolis who will participate in three days of friendly competition, while enjoying fellowship and developing lifelong friendships. This year, FDF welcomes a group traveling from Charlotte, North Carolina who will also participate in the weekend festivities.

This year’s FDF theme, Vision”, brings us together as Orthodox Christians through participation in religious services, prayer, dancing, singing and serving. FDF provides a multi-faceted way for thousands of Orthodox Christians to share Vision of faith, culture, and sharing God’s love through our actions and service to one another. The weekend will also commemorate the 10th anniversary since the passing of His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory, whose vision for the future of the church – and especially our youth – was brought to reality with the establishment of this ministry, which is still going strong after 39 years.

“I always look forward to FDF as it truly represents the future of our church. I am inspired by the vibrancy of our youth and the promise of a bright tomorrow through their faith, leadership and commitment to the Lord,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “It is appropriate that Vision is this year’s theme, because Vision will help us achieve new heights in our personal and professional lives, and most especially, in our church as we set our sights on higher goals to achieve greater things for the Glory of God. We also pay tribute to Metropolitan Anthony, of blessed memory for his vision to create FDF, and for his broader vision for the growth of our church to enrich the spiritual loves of the faithful in our Metropolis.”

The weekend begins by bringing the participants together at Opening Ceremonies on Thursday, February 12 as a family in Christian celebration.  It will feature the traditional parade of parishes, the Agiasmos service, and the presentation of scholarships.

Dance Competition will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the Choral Competition will be featured on Friday afternoon. Workshops will be offered on Friday and Saturday for all dancers and singers. These have become very popular in more recent years, with Metropolis Clergy and Youth Workers leading fun, interactive, and engaging discussions for all age groups. New this year are interactive symposia being offered to all attendees on topics such as, Leaning How to Chant, and How to Build a Youth Choir. Complete details on the workshops and symposia will be available when you arrive at FDF so be sure to attend as many as you can.

On Friday evening prior to the Glendi, FDF is honored to welcome a special guest speaker, S/SGT (Ret.) John Katsaros who served valiantly in the Air Force in World War II. He will share his inspirational story of survival which, up until recently, he was unable to tell as he was sworn to secrecy by the US government. A traditional Glendi will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings for everyone to dance the night away featuring some of the most talented musicians visiting FDF.

This year FDF is once again honored to welcome His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Archbishop Demetrios will lead the faithful in worship at the Sunday morning Divine Liturgy. He will also attend the Advanced Senior Competition on Sunday afternoon and the Awards Ceremony on Sunday evening. It is always a blessing to have Archbishop Demetrios visit the Metropolis of San Francisco and we know that all the participants at FDF will welcome the Archbishop with love and respect.

With over 3,000 people anticipated to attend throughout the weekend, and with so many spectacular events taking place, FDF is the place to be over President’s Day weekend. Come to Anaheim and be inspired by the amazing dancing and singing at FDF 2015. For more information, visit www.yourfdf.org. See you in Anaheim!


2015 Clergy-Laity Assembly Notice

01/21/2015

Beloved Clergy and Parish Councils of the Metropolis of San Francisco,

“Commit your work to the Lord and your plans will be established.” 
Proverbs 16:3

Each year the clergy and leaders of our parishes gather for our annual Clergy-Laity Assembly which provides us with the opportunity to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church.

The 2015 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly will be held April 27 – 28 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. As specified in the Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance, comprised of the following:

1.  The Parish Priest.
2.  The President of the Parish Council, and in his or her absence the Vice President, or in his or her absence any member of the Parish Council designated by it.
3.  Two members of the Parish elected by the Parish Assembly.

Please make sure this important item is placed on the agenda of your upcoming Parish Assembly Meeting so that you may elect these delegates to ensure full participation from your parish. A detailed agenda and registration materials will be provided no later than 60 days prior to the convening of the Assembly.

We are planning an enriching agenda that will include an update on the Strategic Plan and the many new opportunities it is providing for the enrichment of our parishes and our overall ministry as a Metropolis. We have been very fortunate to have enthusiastic leadership from our parishes for this effort and I know that you will be inspired by this God-pleasing work.

I look forward to the active participation of all our communities. Please come with an open mind and an open heart, ready and willing to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be a beacon of God’s love in your parishes.

With Love in Christ,
+Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco


2015 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival

01/18/2015

                                                                           Download The Flyer Here

The Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, established by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious Education in 1983, is an incredible opportunity for our Greek Orthodox children and teenagers to think about, research, write and speak publicly about their faith. Public speaking is a valuable skill that is beneficial throughout one’s life and professional career. Through this Festival, the Church provides a supportive and nurturing environment for our young people to become confident public speakers, and simultaneously give them the opportunity to learn about their faith. This is the second year that the Festival will also offer poetry and essay divisions. Junior and Senior Division participants may choose to prepare a poem or write an essay on one of the topics.

Every community in the Metropolis of San Francisco should plan for participation in this program, and host their parish festival before April 1, 2015. District Festivals will take place throughout the Metropolis in April. The Metropolis Oratorical Festival will be held on Saturday, May 9 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA.

This year our Metropolis is very proud to host the Archdiocesan Oratorical Festival which will be held June 5 – 7, 2015 at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church in Pasadena, CA. We are honored to welcome His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios who presides at the National Oratorical Festival each year.

Parishes should encourage their young people to write a speech, or a poem, or an essay. It is hoped that through this festival our young people will have another opportunity to learn about their Orthodox Christian Faith and Way of Life while they prepare and deliver their presentations.    

As a Church we are deeply concerned about the religious education of our young people, and the Oratorical Festival provides a wonderful and interactive educational opportunity for our youth. Therefore, every community should embrace the Festival for the benefit of our youth. Information packets will be sent to all communities to assist in organizing parish festivals.

Links for 2015 Oratorical Festival Manual, the list of official topics, and supporting information about the Festival, can be found: www.religioused.sanfran.goarch.org/oratorical.

Please see the Promotional Flyer attached. For more information or assistance, or if you would like this flyer personalized for your parish, please contact Dr. Eve Tibbs at religioused@sanfran.goarch.org, or Johanna Duterte at jduterte@sanfran.goarch.org.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos: Jan 1 - 31, 2015

01/01/2015

Thursday, January 1, 2015
Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church – Stockton, CA
8:45 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
11:30 a.m. Vasilopita Ceremony

Sunday, January 4, 2015
Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Oakland, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Anaheim, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers          

Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church – Anaheim, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 

Saturday, January 10, 2015
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Sunday, January 11, 2015
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
8:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
12:00 p.m. Epiphany Cross Dive, Luncheon and Vasilopita Ceremony

Friday, January 16, 2015
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church – Reno, NV
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers                        

Saturday, January 17, 2015
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church – Reno, NV
9:00 a.m. Orthros 
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
7:00 p.m. 50th Anniversary Dinner
 

Sunday, January 18, 2015
Metropolis Young Adult Winter Retreat – Lake Tahoe, NV

Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Pastoral Challenges in Marriage Conference
Presented by the Archdiocese Center for Family Care
Oneness: Growing and Protecting the Blessed Communion
DoubleTree Hotel - Santa Ana, CA

Saturday, January 31, 2015
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA?
11:00 a.m. The Celebration of the Feast of the Three Hierarchs and Ecumenical Teachers
Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian, and Saint John Chrysostom


Metropolis to Host Marriage Conference for Archdiocese Center for Family Care

12/29/2014

On January 28 – 31, 2015, the Center for Family Care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, with the generous support of Leadership 100, will host its second conference on Pastoral Challenges in Marriage at the Doubletree Hotel in Santa Ana, CA, entitled, Oneness: Protecting and Growing the Blessed Communion. The conference is for clergy, lay assistants, youth workers, mental health professionals, presvyteres, ministry leaders, and interested lay people, and will offer resources and tools, along with discussion and networking opportunities for clergy and laity regarding some of the pressing pastoral challenges in marriage today.

The keynote address for this conference will be offered by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. Other featured speakers will be Rev. Deacon Stephen Muse, Ph.D., and Dr. George Stavros. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the main speakers and other participants in workshops as well as deliberate on factors that contribute to and detract from the protection and growth of oneness in marriage.

For more information, please visit: www.family.goarch.org/oneness. Register by December 30 to receive the early bird rate. For questions, please contact the Center for Family Care at familycare@goarch.org or 845-424-8175.

Click Here for the Flyer


Ordination of Bishop-elect Apostolos this Saturday - Watch Online!

12/20/2014

Services begin at 8:30 a.m. EST www.thecathedralnyc.org

It is with great joy and anticipation that, by the Grace of God, Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco, will be Ordained to the Episcopacy on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York. The Divine Services will be presided by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, along with members of the Holy Eparchial Synod.

The faithful of the Metropolis of San Francisco are encouraged to view the services online through the “Live Services” link on the Cathedral’s website: www.thecathedralnyc.org.  Orthros is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. EST, followed by Divine Liturgy and the Ordination at 9:30 a.m. EST. These services will streaming live on the Cathedral website, and will only be able to be viewed while in progress, so be sure to factor in the difference for your respective time zone.

“This is a very important day in the life and ministry of Bishop-elect Apostolos of Medeia,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “Please keep him in your prayers as he answers yet another calling from God, that he may be sanctified and blessed as a Bishop of our Holy Orthodox Church.”

Following his ordination, Bishop Apostolos will return to the Metropolis of San Francisco as an Auxiliary Bishop working under the guidance and direction of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos, and will be the Acting Chancellor of the Metropolis.

AXIOS!


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Dec 3 - 28, 2014

12/02/2014

Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church – Santa Barbara, CA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Thursday, December 4, 2014
Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church – Santa Barbara, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Friday, December 5, 2014
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA
6:30 p.m. Great Vespers

Saturday, December 6, 2014
Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church – Stockton, CA
11:00 a.m. Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Light the Path Christmas Luncheon
A benefit for the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund.

Sunday, December 7, 2014
Young Adult Christmas Open House
Metropolis House – San Francisco, CA
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 11, 2014
Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church – San Diego, CA
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Friday, December 12, 2014
Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church – San Diego, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Saturday, December 20, 2014
Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity – New York, NY
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy and Ordination of Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of San Francisco, to the Episcopacy
 

Thursday, December 25, 2014
Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral – San Francisco, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Sunday, December 28, 2014
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Portland, OR
8:45 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy


Passing of Rev. Father Michael Rome/Schema Monk Athanasios

11/23/2014

                                                         

June 5, 1938 – November 22, 2014

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness,  which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day,  and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”  II Timothy 4:7 – 8

It is with joyful sorrow the that Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the passing of Schema Monk Athanasios, formerly known as Rev. Father Michael Rome, who reposed in the Lord at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Monastery in Florence, Arizona on Saturday, November 22, 2014. Since 2008, he faithfully served as the Chaplain at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring in Dunlap, California.

“Father Michael was a man of great faith and truly a gentle soul. He lovingly served the Liturgical needs of the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring where he had the opportunity to offer counsel to many visitors, and also imparted his deep faith in the Lord through engaging discussions following the Divine services,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “He has now earned his reward in the Lord’s heavenly kingdom and we pray for his family who are grieving his passing that their hearts may be comforted.”

He and Matushka Rachel went on a pilgrimage to Saint Anthony Monastery in early November 2014, during which he took ill. He was subsequently diagnosed with advance-stage cancer and chose to remain in Arizona near the Monastery for his final days. He was tonsured Schema Monk Athanasios on November 6, 2014, surrounded by his family and a few close friends.  Father Michael was ordained to the Holy Diaconate by His Eminence Metropolitan Philip on February 15, 1987 at Saint Michael Orthodox Church in Van Nuys, California. On February 18, 1987, His Eminence Metropolitan Philip ordained him to the Holy Priesthood. Father Michael remained at this parish as an assistant priest. He later served the Antiochian Mission in Santa Cruz, CA; Saint Timothy Antiochian Orthodox Church in Lompoc, CA; and Saints Cyril and Methodios Church in Chico, CA.  Father Michael received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1961. He is survived by his loving family: Matushka Rachel, and their five children Monk Macarios, Judah, Alysa Slikert, Julia Aloro and Elisabeth Tanguay. He was predeceased by his son Michael. He was also a beloved grandfather, relative and friend to many.

Schema Monk Athanasios will be buried at Saint Anthony Monastery on Sunday, November 23, 2014.

May his memory be eternal! 


Summer Camp Dates Announced

11/20/2014

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is proud to announce the 35th year of its Summer Camp ministry at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. Organized by the Metropolis Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, this program is a highlight of youth ministry throughout the year.

The dates for the 2015 Metropolis Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch are:

Staff Orientation Week: June 30 – July 4, 2015
Session 1: July 5-11
Session 2: July 12-18
Session 3: July 19-25

All three sessions are for campers ages 8 – 18.

Pricing for 2015:

$475    Early Registration (December 1 – February 28)

$500    Normal Registration (March 1 – April 30)

$525    Late Registration (May 1 – June 15)

All siblings receive a $25.00 discount.

Building on the success of the themes from the last two years, the commandment of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to “Love One Another” and “As I have loved you”, the theme for next summer is “Be Holy” taken from 1 Peter 1:16, “You shall be holy, for I am Holy.”

The Camp Director will be Johanna Duterte, Director of the Metropolis Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. The Summer Camp Management Team will be comprised of the following individuals: Jacob Saylor, Program Director; Chris Retelas, Boys’ Director; and Kalli Retelas, Girls’ Director.

Staff Applications

New and returning staff applications are available online now and will be accepted until Friday, January 23, 2015.

Camper Registration

Camper registration will be available beginning Monday, December 1, 2014.

For both staff applications and camper registration, please visit www.gosfyouth.org

For questions please contact Johanna Duterte, Director, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, 415-814-1187jduterte@sanfran.goarch.org.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Nov 8 - 30, 2014

11/09/2014

Saturday, November 8, 2014
Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church – Covina, CA
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Sunday, November 9, 2014
Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church – Covina, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Monday, November 10 – Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Pan-Orthodox Clergy Retreat
Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center – Dunlap, CA

Saturday, November 15, 2014
Metropolis Gala – Honoring George and Judy Marcus
Fairmont Hotel – San Francisco, CA

Sunday, November 16, 2014
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy
12:00 p.m. Brunch
1:00 p.m. 10th Annual Volleyball Tournament – Championship Games

Friday, November 21, 2014
Folk Dance and Choral Festival Board of Trustees Meeting
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
Long Beach, CA

Saturday, November 22, 2014
Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos Light the Path Christmas Luncheon
A benefit for the Bishop Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
Long Beach, CA

Monday, November 24, 2014
Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church – Elk Grove, CA
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church – Elk Grove, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Saturday, November 29, 2014
Saint Andrew the Apostle Greek Orthodox Church – San Luis Obispo, CA
6:30 p.m. Great Vespers

Sunday, November 30, 2014
Saint Andrew the Apostle Greek Orthodox Church – San Luis Obispo, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy


Passing of Dina Skouras Oldknow

11/02/2014

                                                                              

It is with great sadness that the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the passing of Mrs. Constantina “Dina” Skouras Oldknow. A longtime parishioner and leader of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, Dina was an example of charity, philanthropy and vision. Fondly known as the “matriarch” to the community of Saint Sophia Cathedral, Dina’s passing will leave a void in the parish but her legacy of service will continue to impact the many people whose lives she touched.

“I was blessed to know Dina and her late husband, Bill, for many years, and to witness their love for each other and for the Lord was truly a blessing. Each time I was a guest in their home, Dina was the supreme hostess, always seeking to please each person. This admirable quality extended beyond her home to anyone she met, and she was especially concerned with helping those who were in need,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “There was no person Dina did not know, for she treated everyone as a friend, and cared for them not only with her resources, but most especially with her heart.”

Dina was born on February 20, 1925 in Skourohorion (Elis), Greece to Athanasios Dimitrios Skouras and Sophia Karianos Skouras. She had two sisters and three brothers, all of whom predeceased her. Dina came to the United States alone from Piraeus at the age of 21 on one of the Liberty ships. After arriving in Boston, she spent a summer in New York before moving to California to live with her uncle, Charles Skouras, in Beverly Hills.

She married William “Bill” Oldknow II on January 15, 1949 at Saint John Episcopal Church, and in 1959 they had their marriage blessed at the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras. They enjoyed 62 years of marriage until Bill’s passing in 2011. She and Bill were grand benefactors of Saint Sophia Cathedral and were active stewards and especially in their support of the Saint Sophia Foundation to provide for the future needs of the Cathedral.

Dina’s life revolved around her family and the church. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, but even more importantly, she was an example of service, compassion and love in all that she did. She was especially committed to Philoptochos and served as President of this ministry at Saint Sophia Cathedral for many years. In recognition of Dina’s visionary leadership, she was appointed National Philoptochos President by His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos of blessed memory, and served with dignity and grace from 1990 – 1994. It was during her tenure that the National Philoptochos initiated the annual Children’s Medical Fund Luncheon which has since raised nearly $3 million in support of children’s medical treatment and research.

Dina is survived by her four daughters Elizabeth Huttinger (Frank Huttinger), Theodora Oldknow (John McLean), Constantine Herzberg (Peter Herzberg), and Theresa Oldknow (David Sutton). She was also a beloved grandmother to her five grandchildren: Alexandra Huttinger, William Huttinger (Elizabeth Jensen), Asa Adib Ammarin and Alyssa Constantina Ammarin.

His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco will lead the Trisagion Service on Monday, November 3 at 7:30 p.m., and the Funeral Service on Tuesday, November 4 at 10:30 a.m. Both services will be held at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1324 S. Normandie Avenue, Los Angeles, California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dina’s memory to: Saint Sophia Foundation, 1324 S. Normandie Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90006; or the University of Southern California Keck Medical Center, 1500 San Pablo Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033.

                                                     May her memory be eternal!


10th Annual Volleyball Tournament

10/12/2014

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco invites your participation and support of the 10th Annual Saint Nicholas Volleyball Tournament in San Jose, California from Friday, November 14 – Saturday, November 16, 2014. Teams include the ages of Jr. GOYA (11 – 13 years old); GOYA (14 – 18 years old); Young Adults (18 – 35); and Adults (35 and older). Registrations are still being accepted for teams from Greek Orthodox parishes so if you haven’t already signed up, turn in your forms today!

An outline of the weekend is as follows:

Friday, November 14
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.                      Registration                             Saint Nicholas Small Hall
7:00 p.m.                                   Opening Prayer                       Saint Nicholas Community Center
                                                     GAMES BEGIN!
6:30p.m. – 9:00 p.m.              Welcome Night / Dinner         Saint Nicholas Small Hall

Saturday, November 15
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.            All Games                               City Beach, Santa Clara
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.           Lunch                                      City Beach, Santa Clara
7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.             Dinner / Awards                     Saint Nicholas Community Center
9:00 p.m.                                  Guest Speaker                         Saint Nicholas Community Center
9:15 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.           Glendi                                     Saint Nicholas Community Center

Sunday, November 16
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.        Divine Liturgy                        Saint Nicholas Church
11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.          Sunday School                        Saint Nicholas Classrooms
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.           Brunch                                    Saint Nicholas Small Hall
1:00 p.m.                                  Championship Games             Saint Nicholas Community Center

Spectators are welcomed and encouraged to attend the tournament and admission is free. The addresses for the locations are: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 986 Chapman Street, San Jose; and City Beach Santa Clara, 2911 Mead Avenue, Santa Clara. Meals will be available for purchase. It is anticipated that there will be over 350 participants in the tournament so be sure to cheer on your favorite teams to victory! This event is a wonderful opportunity for fellowship amongst Greek Orthodox youth, young adults, and adults, and encourages Christian fellowship, athletics and sportsmanship.

All Greek Orthodox parishes are invited to participate in the tournament. Registration materials and other important information are attached. Additional information can be obtained by visiting www.facebook.com/SanJoseVolleyball or contacting the tournament chairman, George Spilios at 408-806-1699 or georgespilios@gmail.com.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos, Oct 4 - 28, 2014

10/02/2014

Saturday, October 4, 2014
Archpastoral Visit to Alaska
Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church – Anchorage, AK
4:00 p.m. Thyranoixia and Great Vespers 
5:30 p.m. Banquet

Sunday, October 5, 2014
Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church – Anchorage, AK
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church – Covina, CA
7:00 p.m. Trisagion Service for Rev. Father Spiros Pieratos

Thursday, October 9, 2014
Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church – Covina, CA
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy
11:00 a.m. Funeral Service for Rev. Father Spiros Pieratos

Sunday, October 12, 2014
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church – San Jose, CA
6:00 p.m. Fundraising Dinner for the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring

October 15 – 16, 2014
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America – New York, NY
Meetings of the Eparchial Synod

October 17, 2014
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America – New York, NY
Meeting of the Archdiocesan Council

October 18, 2014
12:00 p.m. Ground Blessing for the Saint Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center
7:00 p.m. Archon Grand Banquet – New York

Sunday, October 19, 2014
Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity – New York, NY
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy and Archon Investiture

Monday, October 20, 2014
Feast of Saint Gerasimos of Cephalonia
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Saturday, October 25, 2014
7:00 p.m. 50th Anniversary Gala for Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA

Sunday, October 26, 2014
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church – Concord, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Reception of a Relic of Saint Demetrios the Great Martyr gifted by the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute

Monday, October 27, 2014
Metropolis Council Meeting – Belmont, CA

Tuesday, October 28, 2014
11:00 a.m. Vicars Meeting – San Francisco, CA


Walk for Missions This Sunday in San Jose

09/28/2014

Orthodox faithful of all ages are invited to participate in a great community event in the Bay Area, “Walk for Missions.” Bring your family and friends to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 986 Chapman Street, San Jose, California on Sunday, September 28, 2014 from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. What better way to begin the new Liturgical Year than by raising funds to help the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Girl’s Orphanage in Calcutta, India. The Saints Peter and Paul Missions Ministries formed by the St. Nicholas and St. Basil Churches in San Jose, California is hosting this event to benefit the orphanage.

The Orphanage is currently building a school to help reduce the educational costs for the children. They are on the verge of becoming self-sustaining once needed quality upgrades are made for accreditation and funding. The goal of this event is to provide the support to pay for these upgrades.

This will be a family event with great fun, food, photos, gift card drawings, a bake sale, and a Kafeneio. Ms. Thomaida Hudanish, the new Assistant Director of the recently established Metropolis Office of Outreach and Evangelism Office, will make a presentation on the orphanage.

As an added incentive for people in their fundraising efforts for this event, there are some unique prizes being offered. The top fundraiser will receive a hand painted icon donated by His Eminence Metropolitan Nikitas of the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute (PAOI). 

For those that cannot participate in the walk but wish to help, pledges and donations can be made. See the St. Nicholas Church website for more information or fill out the attached pledge form to make your donation today.

Online donations can be made through the following:

Enter “Walk for Missions” or “WFM” in the special instructions. These are also eligible for prizes. Checks should be made payable to St. Nicholas Church with "WFM" or "Missions" in the memo.

Your participation in Walk for Missions can change a life forever. The girls at the orphanage need our prayers and support. Let’s share our love with them and make tomorrow a brighter day for them!


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos Sep 11 - 28, 2014

09/10/2014

Thursday, September 11, 2014
5:30 p.m. Interfaith Committee Meeting
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco

Saturday, September 13, 2014
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
6:30 p.m. Great Vespers

September 14, 2014
Feast of the Elevation of the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
8:45 a.m.   Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Blessing of the Iconography

Monday, September 15 – Thursday, September 18, 2014
Meeting of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States
Dallas, TX
 
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Los Angeles, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
3:00 p.m. University of Southern California – Los Angeles, CA
Presentation by Eugene Rossides on the 40th Anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus 

Thursday, September 25, 2015
11:00 a.m. Metropolis Philoptochos Board Meeting and Installation Service
Metropolis Office – San Francisco, CA 
Hellenic Law Society Dinner honoring Consul General Dimitrios Xenitellis
San Francisco, CA
 
Saturday, September 27, 2014
6:30 p.m. Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute Gala
Ritz Carlton Hotel – San Francisco, CA
 
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church – Castro Valley, CA
8:15 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
10th Anniversary of Father Michael Prevas’ service at the parish


Prayers Requested for Earthquake Victims

08/26/2014

As you are aware, a major earthquake occurred in the Napa Valley and San Francisco Bay area communities early Sunday morning, August 24th.  We have learned that only minor damage sustained by our Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Vallejo, California. We are also grateful to learn that parishioners of the Vallejo parish and those who live in and around Napa City in Napa valley sustained only minimal losses to their homes and property. 

“We are certainly praying for all of those who were injured or had their homes damaged, and we ask God to bring healing and safeguard them,” Metropolitan Gerasimos stated upon learning of this event. Also, “We ask everyone to pray for our faithful and all those in the region affected by the earthquake as they strive to recuperate from this catastrophe.”

The earthquake measured in magnitude 6.0. It struck at around 3:20 am Sunday morning and its center was approximately 9 miles south of the world-renowned Napa Valley, home to over 800 wineries.  Over 100 individuals were injured and many historic buildings suffered damage. 


Metropolis Staffing Changes

08/09/2014

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is announcing changes to its staffing infrastructure effective August 18, 2014.

Mr. Paul Gikas, who has been serving as the Metropolis Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries since October 2011, will assume the duties as Director of Development and Communications. His responsibilities will include fundraising and public relations for the Metropolis. Paul holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Loyola University in Chicago, IL and a Master of Divinity Degree from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Brookline, MA. During his tenure, Paul worked diligently to expand the Metropolis Summer Camp and Greek Village Camp programs, which both experienced growth during his tenure.

Ms. Johanna Duterte has been appointed as the Metropolis Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. She has been Summer Camp Administrator and Activities Coordinator for Saint Nicholas Ranch Summer Camp since 2012. She has also served as a GOYA advisor at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose, CA. Johanna will oversee the development of youth and young adult ministries in the Metropolis. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from California State University, Long Beach.

We congratulate Paul on his new position and welcome Johanna to the Metropolis staff!


Archbishop Demetrios to visit Saint Anthony Church in Pasadena, CA

08/04/2014

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco welcomes with respect His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America who will Preside from the Throne at the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord on Wednesday, August 6 at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church in Pasadena, California. Orthros will begin at 9:00 a.m., with Divine Liturgy at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will be offered in honor of this visit by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and all the faithful are invited to both join in prayer and fellowship on this day. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos will also be present, along with clergy from the greater Los Angeles area. Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church is located at 778 S. Rosemead Boulevard in Pasadena.

Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos - August 2 - 24, 2014

08/02/2014

Saturday, August 2, 2014
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church – Modesto, CA
5:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Sunday, August 3, 2014
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church – Modesto, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Ordination of Daniel Triant to the Holy Diaconate

Monday, August 4 – Tuesday, August 5, 2014
21st Church Assembly Sabor – Alhambra, CA
Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America
Honored Guest and Keynote Speaker:
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America

Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Feast of the Transfiguration
Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church – Pasadena, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy presided by
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America

Thursday, August 7, 2014
Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church – Novato, CA
10:00 a.m. Paraklesis to the Theotokos

Friday, August 8, 2014
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral – San Francisco, CA
6:30 p.m. Paraklesis to the Theotokos

Thursday, August 14, 2014
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
7:00 p.m. Great Vespers

Friday, August 15, 2014
Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church – Long Beach, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Sunday, August 17, 2014
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church – San Francisco, CA
9:15 a.m. Orthros
10:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
Followed by Panegyri

Sunday, August 24, 2014
Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church – Santa Barbara, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy


Passing of Elenie Huszagh

07/14/2014


Elenie K. Huszagh
May 1, 1937 – July 11, 2014

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces with sorrow the passing of Elenie K. Huszagh, who reposed in the Lord on Friday, July 11, 2014. Elenie was a first-generation Greek American and the only child of her beloved parents, Peter and Mary Kostopoulos.

“Elenie’s legacy of service to the Greek Orthodox Church was truly remarkable. Her prominence as a leader was especially noteworthy, with her participation on the Archdicoesan Council for over 30 years, and the wise counsel she provided on many significant issues of the church during her tenure,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “Beyond all her professional contributions, Elenie was a trusted and true friend. She was always eager to offer assistance and advice for the betterment of the church. In the Metropolis of San Francisco, she was a constant presence as the Presiding Officer for the annual Clergy-Laity Assembly conferences, leading the proceedings with eloquence and gentle authority.”

Born on May 1, 1937, Elenie’s childhood mirrored that of many other Greek children, first only knowing the Greek language but easily learning and adapting to English. She excelled in school and was a voracious reader. At the young age of 16, Elenie’s completed high school and was accepted at the University of Chicago as a Ford Foundation Scholar where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. She subsequently graduated from Chicago’s John Marshall Law School with a juris doctor degree. She was admitted to the bar of the US Supreme Court, the 7th and 9th Districts of the US Court of Appeals, the US District Court, the Northern District of Illinois, and the Supreme Court of Illinois.

While Elenie’s professional work was highly regarded and brought her great fulfillment, she found her greatest joy using her gifts for the Lord. In addition to her distinguished tenure on the Archdiocesan Council, Elenie also served for several years on the Metropolis Council and as Chair of the Legal Committee. She was a trusted advisor to His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos, of blessed memory, and was awarded the Medal of Saint Paul, the highest honor bestowed upon a layperson by the Archdiocese. Elenie was also instrumental in the drafting of the Charter for the Archdiocese, and worked closely with the Ecumenical Patriarchate to develop this important document which governs the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. In recognition of her devotion to the Archdiocese, Elenie was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humanities degree from Hellenic College/Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Brookline, MA in May 2003.

After several years of involvement with the National Council of Churches (NCC), Elenie was called upon to serve as its President in 2002 – 2003. As the nation’s largest organization in the movement for Christian unity, Elenie was a strong leader and brought prominence to the Orthodox Church through her governance. She also served as legal counsel to the World Council of Hellenes Abroad, and was a founding member of the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce established in Chicago.

Elenie is survived by her devoted son, Peter. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard, who passed away in 2008. She is also survived by her extended family, friends and colleagues, of all whom will miss Elenie’s friendship

His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos will officiate at the Funeral Service which will be prayed on Friday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3131 NE Glisan Street, Portland, OR. The interment will be held at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Elenie’s memory to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), P.O. Box 17398, Baltimore, MD 21297.

May her memory be eternal!


Repose of Presvytera Krissy Flesoras

07/12/2014

Presvytera Kristen “Krissy” Flesoras
August 13, 1972 – July 9, 2014

Photo by Robert Gallagher

 

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day…”
2 Timothy 4:7 – 8

It is with great sadness that the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the repose of Presvytera Krissy Flesoras. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Presvytera Krissy fell asleep in the Lord on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 surrounded by her family. She will be remembered for her exceptional faith during times of adversity, and for her unceasing devotion and praise for Jesus Christ, in whose loving embrace she now finds peace.

“Words cannot adequately convey the sadness in my heart with the passing of Presvytera Krissy. I had the opportunity to be with her several times throughout her illness and I was inspired by the depth of her faith and her will to live,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco. “Though Presvytera Krissy has left this earthly life, she is now alive with Jesus Christ and rejoicing among His Saints. I grieve with her beloved husband, children and extended family, and offer the prayers and support of the entire Metropolis to comfort them on their journey of emotional healing.”

Presvytera Krissy was born in Los Angeles on August 13, 1972 to James and Georgia Kyriazis. She was raised in southern California and grew up as an active member of Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles. Throughout her youth, she played competitive volleyball, soccer and softball on both school and travel teams. She received numerous awards and set several records in high school, culminating in being honored as “Player of the Year” at both her high school and in the greater conference.

She attended the University of California – Santa Barbara on a full scholarship where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Science in 1995. Presvytera Krissy played Division 1 Softball during her college career, also receiving numerous awards and setting collegiate records.

She married Christopher Flesoras in 1996 at Saint Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles. Following their marriage, Father Christopher was ordained to the Diaconate and Holy Priesthood, and they began their ministry, first at the parish of Holy Cross in Belmont, CA, and then to their current assignment at Saint Anna in Roseville, CA. Prior to starting a family, Presvytera Krissy had a career as an environmental scientist and technical writer. She was a devoted mother to her children – Constantine (age 8) and Gianna (age 5). Her love for them was boundless and they brought her great joy. Presvytera Krissy’s legacy of faith and devotion will remain in the hearts of her family always.

Presvytera Krissy is survived by her husband, Rev. Dr. Christopher Flesoras; their children Constantine and Gianna; her parents James and Georgia Kyriazis of Anaheim Hills, CA; sister, Renee Kyriazis of Redondo Beach, CA; and her in-laws Dean and Angie Flesoras. The parish of Saint Anna Greek Orthodox Church in Roseville, California was also especially devoted in their fervent prayers and care for Presvytera Krissy, and her loss will be felt deep within this community.

The Trisagion Service will be prayed on Wednesday, July 16 at 7:00 p.m. and the Funeral Service will be on Thursday, July 17 at 11:00 a.m. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco will officiate at both services which will be held at Saint Anna Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 Stone Canyon Drive, Roseville, CA. The interment will be held at East Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 4300 Folsom Boulevard, Sacramento, CA. Following the burial, the Makaria will be held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 3022 F Street, Sacramento, CA.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in Presvytera Krissy’s memory to:

Saint Anna Greek Orthodox Church – Building Fund 
1001 Stone Canyon Drive, Roseville, CA 95661

or The Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation (http://www.lungcancerfoundation.org).

May her memory be eternal!


Summer Camp is filling up - Register Today!

06/23/2014

Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch 2014
Registration still open for Session 2 only!
www.gosfyouth.org

Get excited… Summer is back and Summer Camp is almost here! The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is pleased to announce that Sessions 1 and 3 are now sold out! Register for Session 2 today and join us for a memorable summer camp experience that will last a lifetime. Now in its 34th year, Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retrat Center in Dunlap, California is a leading youth ministry program in our Metropolis and it is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Building on the success of the theme last year, the commandment of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to “Love one another”, this year’s theme will be, “As I have loved you”. Campers will once again participate in all of the traditional camp activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery, arts and crafts, Olympics, campfires, daily worship services, Orthodox Life discussions, visits to the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring, plus the fun new additions from last summer of junkyard wars, faith and culture, nightly themed activities, and even more new surprises coming this summer!

The Camp Director will be Paul Gikas, Director of the Metropolis Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. The Summer Camp Management Team is comprised of: Jacob Saylor, Program Director; Johanna Duterte, Camp Administrator; and Chris and Kalli Retelas, Boys and Girls Directors, respectively.

Summer Camp is for children 8 years old (or entering 3rd grade in Fall 2014) to 18 years old (or graduating from High School in Spring 2014).

Dates for 2014:           Session I:                July 6 – 12 - SOLD OUT
                                 Session II:       July 13 – 19 - SPACE AVAILABLE – Register today!
                                 
Session III:           July 20 – 26 - SOLD OUT

Pricing for 2014: $500  Late registration (May 1 – June 30)
                        (All siblings receive a $25 discount.)

Stay connected to our Summer Camp social media:
Facebook:       Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Summer Camp at St Nicholas Ranch
Instagram:     metropolisofsfsummercamp
Twitter:          @SFMetSummerCamp

For questions or additional information please contact Paul Gikas, Director, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, 415-814-1186pgikas@sanfran.goarch.org.


Schedule for Metropolitan Gerasimos - June 4 - 29, 2014

06/04/2014

Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Saint Nicholas Ranch Board Meeting
Metropolis Office – San Francisco, CA 
12:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 7, 2014
Saint Gregory of Nyssa Greek Orthodox Church – El Cajon, CA
5:00 p.m. Thyranoixia and Great Vespers

Sunday, June 8, 2014
Feast of Pentecost
Saint Gregory of Nyssa Greek Orthodox Church – El Cajon, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Monday, June 9, 2014
Feast of the Holy Spirit
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church – San Francisco, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church – Belmont, CA
Greek School Graduation

Sunday, June 15, 2014
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral – San Francisco, CA
9:00 a.m. Orthros
10:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Friday, June 20, 2014
AHEPA Western District Regional Convention
Reno, NV

Sunday, June 22, 2014
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Portland, OR
8:45 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
20 year Memorial for Rev. Father Elias Stephanopoulos

Monday, June 23, 2014
Saint John the Forerunner Monastery – Goldendale, WA
6:00 p.m. Great Vespers and Orthros

Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Saint John the Forerunner Monastery – Goldendale, WA
8:00 a.m. Hours and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy

Thursday, June 26 – Friday, June 27, 2014
Greek Village Immersion Camp – Elliniko Horio
Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center – Dunlap, CA

Saturday, June 28, 2014
Metropolis Church Music Federation Conference
Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Oakland, CA
5:30 p.m. Great Vespers
7:00 p.m. Awards Banquet

Sunday, June 29, 2014
Metropolis Church Music Federation Conference
Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral – Oakland, CA
8:30 a.m. Orthros
10:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy


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Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News

Faith, Dance and Fellowship: 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival

02/12/2015

The 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival of the Metropolis of San Francisco begins today in Anaheim, California and will run through Sunday, Feb. 15. The renowned FDF event, now in its 39th year celebrates Faith, Dance and Fellowship and is the largest gathering of Greek Orthodox Youth in America, expected to surpass 3,000 people in attendance.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Feb. 12-23, 2015

02/10/2015

Applications for the Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship for 2015-16

02/06/2015

he Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship Fund applications for the 2015-2016 academic year are now available from the Chancellor’s Office of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Feb. 8-23, 2015

02/06/2015

2015-2016 Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships Available

02/04/2015

Applications and instructions for three scholarships administered by the Department of Philanthropy of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America are available for awards to be made for the 2015-2016 academic year.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of St. Photios and Saint Photios National Shrine Day - February 6, 2015

02/03/2015

On this blessed Feast of Saint Photios, we offer our gratitude and support for our beloved Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine in St. Augustine, Florida. For almost four decades, our National Shrine as been a place that honors the earliest roots of our Greek American experience, affirms the value of this experience and the role of our Hellenic heritage in this country, and offers a beautiful witness of the power and grace of our Orthodox faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Three Hierarchs and Greek Letters Day

01/26/2015

On this blessed Feast of the Three Hierarchs, we give thanks to God for the beautiful and faithful witness of Saints Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom. Venerated on this day as great Teachers and Theologians, we also recognize them as representative of many great Saints of the Church who have conveyed truth, communicated divine wisdom, and offered an inspiring witness of the Gospel of love. For the depth of their teaching and their ardent defense of the faith, our hymns call all people to a universal celebration on this day.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 24 – Feb. 1, 2015

01/23/2015

Ionian Village Announces Summer 2015 Financial Aid Travel Grants by FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism

01/21/2015

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America's summer travel program to Greece, Ionian Village, announces the continuation of the FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism sponsored scholarships. Now in its ninth consecutive year these full and partial financial aid grants will be awarded to those participants in the summer camps program in Greece who qualify for need-based financial aid.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 15-25, 2015

01/13/2015

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 10-20, 2015

01/09/2015

2015 Archdiocesan Yearbook Now Available Online

01/09/2015

The 2015 Yearbook of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is now available online at www.goarch.org/archdiocese/yearbook. The Yearbook can also be downloaded from the website as a pdf and used as a digital book on tablets, smart phones and other digital reading devices.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Saint Basil and the New Year

12/29/2014

On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve.

Patriarchal Proclamation Christmas 2014

12/22/2014

God has appeared on earth and, at the same time, we have seen the perfect man together with the inconceivable value of the human person. Today especially, we experience the condition of humanity after the fall, as we daily affirm with the Psalmist that "all have gone stray, they are all alike corrupt; there is none that does good – no, not one!" (Psalm 13.3; Rom. 3.12-13)

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Nativity 2014

12/16/2014

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Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of St. Photios and Saint Photios National Shrine Day - February 6, 2015

02/03/2015

On this blessed Feast of Saint Photios, we offer our gratitude and support for our beloved Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine in St. Augustine, Florida. For almost four decades, our National Shrine as been a place that honors the earliest roots of our Greek American experience, affirms the value of this experience and the role of our Hellenic heritage in this country, and offers a beautiful witness of the power and grace of our Orthodox faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Three Hierarchs and Greek Letters Day

01/26/2015

On this blessed Feast of the Three Hierarchs, we give thanks to God for the beautiful and faithful witness of Saints Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom. Venerated on this day as great Teachers and Theologians, we also recognize them as representative of many great Saints of the Church who have conveyed truth, communicated divine wisdom, and offered an inspiring witness of the Gospel of love. For the depth of their teaching and their ardent defense of the faith, our hymns call all people to a universal celebration on this day.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Saint Basil and the New Year

12/29/2014

On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Nativity 2014

12/16/2014

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Thanksgiving Day 2014

11/20/2014

These foundations of Thanksgiving Day, and its place within the history and life of this nation as a regular observance have made this a holiday shared by many as well as a time for families to gather in fellowship and gratitude. The focus on giving thanks to God, the attitude of gratefulness for the blessings in our lives, and the traditions centered upon the family resonate with our emphasis on the family as a dwelling of Christ and a witness of His Gospel.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Archangels - November 8, 2014

11/05/2014

The blessed ministry of the angels is also reflected in the quality of care and compassionate service offered by our beloved Saint Michael’s Home. On this feast we recognize the faithful service of the trustees, directors, and staff, affirming that in a sacred environment, filled with the presence of God, they are being faithful to His command to offer comfort, love, and healing.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Unmercenaries - November 1, 2014

10/28/2014

We are led in this effort by our National Ladies Philoptochos Society, and on Sunday, November 2, local chapters throughout our Holy Archdiocese will have a special offering for these ministries. I ask that you contribute generously to assist the work of our beloved Ecumenical Patriarchate at a time when critical needs there and throughout the Middle East are growing. As we are witnessing, long established ministries are challenged for resources as new humanitarian crises and desperate pleas for assistance are growing.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for OXI Day - October 28, 2014

10/21/2014

As we commemorate OXI Day on October 28 and remember the valiant stand of the people of Greece in 1940 against the advancement of the forces of Fascism, we are aware that struggles for freedom and peace and against tyranny are very much a part of our modern world. Just as some of us and most certainly our fathers and mothers saw and experienced the brutality and inhumane actions of an occupying force, so too we are witnesses today of persecution, violence, and death.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for National Leadership 100 Sunday - October 26, 2014

10/09/2014

On this Sunday, October 26, the Feast of Saint Demetrios and following the Feast of Saint Iakovos on October 23, we give thanks to God for the steadfast and abounding labor of the members of Leadership 100 and celebrate the great accomplishments of the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, as its celebration of its 30th Anniversary comes to a close.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross

09/10/2014

We lift up the Cross because while it was used as an instrument of torture and indignity, it brought honor and glory to God. It was used as a means of ending life, but it became entrance to eternity. It was used as a violent weapon, but for believers it became a weapon of true peace. The Cross, a symbol of suffering and defeat, through Christ it became a symbol of hope and victory. Instead of death, our Lord through the Cross brought us life and abundance of life.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Ecclesiastical New Year and the Day for the Protection of our Natural Environment

08/27/2014

As we commemorate this Feast of the Indiction, the beginning of the new ecclesiastical year, we ask our great and merciful God to “bless the crown of this year which His goodness has allowed us to begin” (Hymn of Orthros). It is His goodness and grace that has brought us to the beginning of one more ecclesiastical year and to another blessed cycle of the feasts and observances of our Holy Orthodox Faith. In anticipation of the marvelous and wonderful things our Lord will accomplish in our lives, parishes, and families, we look forward to the blessings that will come through our worship, prayer, and service.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - August 15, 2014

08/11/2014

We commemorate this blessed Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, honoring and celebrating her faith in God and the witness of the miraculous power of grace in her life through her willing obedience to His will. As a result of the amazing level of personal holiness and the abundance of grace, the Theotokos offers us a superb example of a relationship with God and a deep connection with Him that is essential for our lives and the sacred institution of the family.

Archbishop Demetrios calls for prayers for the Christians in the Middle East

07/29/2014

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, For decades, the region considered a cradle of civilization and the birthplace of Christianity has become an arena of violence, resulting in the loss of countless lives. While the source of violence has varied in each instance, what is consistent in every case is that the blood of innocent victims has saturated the Middle East. This is especially true of Christians, who have endured unimaginable suffering because of their faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Independence Day - July 4, 2014

06/27/2014

On this Independence Day we offer thanksgiving and praise to God for the freedom we have as human beings created in His divine image and as citizens of a nation that values, protects and promotes freedom as essential to human life, well-being, and potential. As Orthodox Christians we know and affirm that God is the source of our freedom because He is the absolutely Free and the Creator of genuine freedom.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for AHEPA Sunday - May 18, 2014

05/15/2014

In this blessed Paschal season filled with the light and joy of our Lord’s Holy Resurrection, we observe a special day among our parishes and our Greek American community, AHEPA Sunday. On this day we recognize the history, accomplishments, and ongoing service of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association and the members of the AHEPA family.
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