Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 1:10-14; 2:1-3

"IN THE BEGINNING, Thou, Lord, didst found the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of thy hands; they will perish, but thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed. But thou art the same, and thy years will never end." But to what angel has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies a stool for thy feet?" Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?

Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For if the message declared by angels was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him.

Gospel Reading

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas
The Reading is from Mark 2:1-12

At that time, Jesus entered Capernaum and it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven." Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, "Why does this man speak thus? It is a blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, "Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise, take up your pallet and walk? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins"-he said to the paralytic-"I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home." And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

Parish Announcements

PARISH SCHEDULE

Assisting Fr. Jim: Fr. John Klembara andAcolyteTeam #3

Communion Prayer Leader: Tony Apotsos

Welcome: Sunday School contestants of the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival.

Memorials: ~1 year for Nick Pamphilis, husband of Argie

~1 year for Harry Skapoulas, husband of Georgia

~3 years for James Apotsos, husband of Mimi

~Trisagion (3 months) Gus Callas, husband of Estelle

~40 days for Presvytera Anna Gallos, of Maryland, a Choir director throughout the Archdiocese for more than 50 years, she was one of the most prolific composers of Greek Orthodox Church music in the U.S., including 7 Divine Liturgies, numerous holy day service hymns, concert music, and special music for the organ.

Coffee Hour: Hosted by the Apotsos and Skapoulas families

Sunday School & Philoptochos still accepting baby items and donations for Zoe House

GOYA will once again be selling Lentil and Minestrone soup. $3 for 16 oz.; $5/quart.

SUNDAY	3/15	8:30; 9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Noon	Orthros; Divine Liturgy; Sunday School Oratorical Festival Zoe House “Baby Shower” benefit Kymata Jr Dancers practice
MONDAY	3/16	9:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m. “	Making pastitsio Choir practice (church)/ OCF/YAL Lenten discussion group (chapel)
TUESDAY	3/17	9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.	Making pastitsio Bible Study Computer Skills Greek School Parish Council meeting
WEDNESDAY	3 /18	10:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 -9:00 p.m.	Library committee meeting Pre-sanctified Liturgy Lenten Meal & Lecture
THURSDAY	3/19	5:00 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 7:00 p.m.	Greek School Kyklonas dance practice American Legion meeting
FRIDAY	3/20	7:00 p.m.	Salutations (Χαιρετισμοί)
SATURDAY	3/21	1:00 p.m.	Greek Independence Day Parade (Tremont)

SALUTATIONS TO THE VIRGIN MARY

Fridays, March 13, 20 & 27 at 7 p.m. in the Church. One fourth of the Akathist Hymn is read on the first four weeks, with the entire Hymn read on the fifth Friday. Those wishing to read the prayers in front of the Panagia’s or Christ’s icons, please contact the office.

YOUTH CHOIR BEGINS

Sat., Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-noon in the St. Philothei Chapel, to prepare for our Feastday Luncheon on Sun., Oct 26 where we will sing for His Eminence Metropolitan Savas.

Pizza & dessert at 11:30 a.m.

YOUNG ADULT LENTEN GROUP

Area college OCF chapters and young adults are invited to a study group led by Fr. Jim, to discuss the Philokalia and The Ladder of Divine Ascent. The group will meets Mondays (March 16, & 30) from 7-8 p.m. in the St. Philothei chapel. You do not need to have read the books ahead of time; materials will be provided.

Please note that there is no meeting on March 23rd as Fr. Jim will be out of town.

'MIRACLES THAT HAPPEN AROUND US'

The Spiritual Life Committee asks you to save the dates for the 2015 Lenten Lecture series on Wednesdays, Pre-sanctified Liturgy at 6 p.m., Lenten meal at 7 p.m. and talk at 8 p.m.

March 18- Gerald Largent, of St. Panteleimon Orthodox Christian Outreach; meal by GOYA

April 1^st – George Athanasiou, of Sts. Constantine & Helen; meal hosts Daughters of Penelope

Please note: NO program on March 25^th due to Annunciation.

OPA!

Greek folk dance practices for March 25^th & our Greek Festival:

~Kymata Junior Dancers (ages 9-12) Rehearsals on Sundays at Noon in the Fellowship Room. Contact Angelia Szekely (440-724-3807).

~ Kyklonas Advanced Dancers (age 13 & up) will rehearse on Thursdays from 6:45-7:30 p.m. in the hall. Contact Eleni Papouras-Jenks (440-331-2246) for details.

~Aeraki Beginner Dancers (ages 5-8) will begin rehearsing later in the spring.

NOTE: The cut-off date for all the ages above is Jan. 1. Children will be placed into whichever group is based on their age as of Jan 1, even if they will have a birthday prior to the festival. There is no fee for the dance groups, except for the deposits on costumes (distributed before performances,) but all dancers’ families must be members in good standing.

YOUTH CHOIR REHEARSAL

Sat., March 14, 10 a.m.-noon in the chapel to work on Lent and Holy Week hymns.

FESTIVAL KICK-OFF

COOKING Cooking begins at 9 a.m. in the hall on the scheduled days.

March 16-17 Pastitsio

March 23-24 Moussaka

April 27-28 Souzoukakia

May 4-5 Tiropites (May 4- Additional evening work session)

May 11-12 Spanakopites (May 11- additional evening work session)

May 18-19 Galaktoboureko

June 1 Green beans

June 2 Koulourakia

June 8-9 Lamb shanks

June 15 Sauces

June 16 Chicken breast

June 17 Tourlou & Rice pudding

CLEVELAND HOT LIST The St. Demetrios Greek Festival has been nominated in the 2015 Cleveland Hot List in the category “Local Flavor: Festival.” CityVoter contests let customers determine the “Best” in local businesses. Go to http://cleveland.cityvoter.com/st-demetrios-greek-orthodox-church/biz/693607 and vote for our festival and then share the link with your friends. Voting is open until March 15^th.

SPRING BAKE SALE

Let Philoptochos make your Easter holiday easier by ordering tiropites & spanakopites from us. $25 for two dozen. Place orders with Mary Levendusky (440-871-3263.) Pick up dates are Sundays, March 22 and 29.

ADULT COMPUTER CLASS

Paul Manos will be teaching basic computer skills to parish senior citizens who want to learn more about e-mail, using the computer for budgets, or navigating the Internet. Tuesdays at 11 a.m. in the new computer lab (next to the school office) There are six desktops available but we will try to accommodate all who are interested. Contact the church office

MARCH 25TH CELEBRATIONS

GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE Sat., March 21, in Cleveland’s historic Tremont neighborhood. Noon Doxology at Annunciation Church, 2187 W. 14^th St.; 1 p.m. kick-off from the church parking lot. Spectators can line up along the route: Fairfield, W. 11^th St., Lincoln Park, and along W. 14^th St. Post-parade festivities to follow in Annunciation Hall, including folk dance performances and food for sale. St. Demetrios Church will be represented by our youth ministries. Other regional organizations (Pan-Icarian, Cretan Club, etc.) should contact Emmanuel Ermidis (216-323-4092) to sign up. No registration fee this year.

MARCH 25^TH PROGRAM Sun., March 22, immediately following Divine Liturgy, in the Cultural hall, poems, songs, and dances presented by the Greek School, Youth Choir, and the Hellenic Dancers to commemorate this double holiday. PTO will offer refreshments after.

FASHION FOR RESEARCH

Sat., Mar. 28 at noon, Daughters of Penelope 2^nd Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon in the Cultural Hall, to support breast cancer vaccine research at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute. $35/person. (Half tax deductible.) RSVP by Mar 21to Elisa Demis (elisac.demis@gmail.com ~ 440-835-1913.) Your choice of chicken or vegetarian lunch. Fashions by CAbi Clothing, Jewelry by Sabika, Makeup & Skincare by Rodan + Fields. Styles for all ages in evening, office and sportswear. Also, contact Elisa if you are able to donate a door prize (product, service, gift certificates, etc.)

EVENTS ELSEWHERE

FISH FRIES Our Sister churches are offering fish fries on Fridays. Sts. Constantine & Helen, 3352 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland Hts., now thru March 27 and Annunciation, 2187 W.14^th St., Cleveland, now thru April 3. Visit stsconstantine.com/fish-fry/ or annunciationcleveland.net

JOY LENT RETREAT Sat., March 14, join Cleveland area JOY kids & parents to caravan to St. Gregory Palamas Monastery. We will meet & depart at Bed, Bath & Beyond, 16700 Royalton Rd., Strongsville at 1:15 p.m. and depart from the monastery around 6 p.m. $5/child donaton to the monastery. RSVP by March 6 to Fr. Michael (mgavrilos@stpaulgoc.org)

VISITING RELICS March 20-22, Buna Vestire Romanian Orthodox Cathedral, 3300 Wooster Rd., Rocky River, will host the relics of the St. Anna, grandmother of our Lord Jesus Christ, (from Mt. Athos) and St. Theodora the Empress, who restored the holy icons to public veneration (from Kerkyra, Greece.) Donations collected will benefit the Holy Skete of St. Anna from Mt. Athos.

Fri, Mar. 20- 9:30 p.m. Litany for receiving the Holy Relics

Sat, Mar 21: 10 a.m. Memorial; Noon & 7 pm Akathist services; 5 pm Vespers.

Sun, Mar 22: 10 am Div. Liturgy; 1 pm feastday Banquet; 3 pm Akathist & 4 pm Departure.

The church will also be open daily, 8:30 am-8:30 pm to the faithful to venerate the holy relics.

GOYA SPRING RETREAT March 27-29, at Camp Nazareth, Mercer, PA. Theme “A New Saint: St. Paisios.” Camper & staff registration at Pittsburgh.goarch.org. $150 fee; Financial aid available.

BEHOLDING THE FACE OF GOD THROUGH PHILANTHROPY Sat., March 28, Lenten retreat at St. Paul Church, 4548 Wallings Rd., North Royalton. Speaker Paul Finley, Director of St. Herman’s. 9:30 a.m.-Noon. $5 fee. Call 440-237-8998 to register. Hosted by St. Paul Philoptochos

HOW TO MAKE TSOUREKI Sat., Mar. 28, 10 am at the Nafpaktian Cultural Foundation, 7890 Brookside Dr., Olmsted Falls. $10 donation includes hands-on demonstration by Angie Tsigas and 2 loaves to take home. While waiting for dough to rise, learn to make dough for koulourakia (bring cookie sheets to take & bake at home.) Reservation & pre-pay required as space is limited. RSVP by March 21 to Georgia (440-225-8256.)

HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY Father Andrew Harmon of St. Matthew Orthodox Church will teach a course on "The History of Christianity, Part 2", through Baldwin-Wallace University’s Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) adult education program in Berea. Mondays, 2:30- 4 p.m., for 6 weeks starting April 13, and cover the Schism thru the present. Register: 440-826-3188.

ST. PHOTIOS AWARDS BANQUET Sat., April 18, His Eminence Metroplitan Savas invites all clergy and laypersons to a celebration of our Metropolis of Pittsburgh’s volunteers, at the Wyndham Grand, 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh. 4 p.m. cocktails; 5:45 pm dinner. $75/adult; $25/child, benefits the Metropolitan’s Benevolent Fund. Contact Mary Doreza at 412-877-3415 by April 5^th. St. Demetrios’ honorees are Angelo Georgeson and Peter Stamatis. Axioi!

SWING INTO SPRING Sat., April 25, at St. Paul Hellenic Center, 4548 Wallings Rd., North Royalton. A benefit for Pancreatic Cancer Action Network & Philoptochos charities. $60 before April 6; $65 after (reservations closed after April 20.) 6 p.m. hors d’oeuvres & cash bar; 7 p.m. dinner, dancing to the sounds of Dan Zola Orchestra, Live Auction & more. Call Evangeline Bozikis (216-447-9824) or go to www.stpaulgoc.org

“TRANON HORON” Sat., April 25, dinner-dance of the Greek Pontian Society of Cleveland at Annunciation Hall, 2187 W. 14^th St., Cleveland, 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Music by Karizma, featuring Kostas Papadopoulos on Lira & Georgos Michailidis on Daouli. Dance performances by groups from Chicago, Toronto, Canton and Cleveland. $40/adult; $20/student ages 13- 21; children 12 & under are free. Food buffet. Cash bar. $20 for dance only (after 10 p.m.) Contact Emmanuel Ermidis (216-323-4092) for reservations.

PIEROGI PROJECT St. Mary Magdalene Byzantine Catholic Church, 5390 W. 220th St. Fairview Park, welcomes you to visit their parish hall every Friday throughout the year, 2 - 6 pm to purchase hand-pinched, potato-cheese Pierogi. $6/dozen (frozen). A limited supply of kraut and spinach/feta are also available. For more information, contact Deacon Dan at 216-926-2791.

MISSION TRIPS Visit www.ocmc.org or www.projectmexico.org for information on where & how you can serve the Church around the world, or how to support other missionaries.

IOCC 23RD ANNUAL BENEFIT

Mon., May 11, at St. Sava Cathedral, 6306 Broadview Rd., Parma. Doors open at 6 p.m. Guest speaker Mark Gruin, IOCC Director of Strategic Initiatives. Contact Eleni in the church office by May 4 for reservations.

HOLIDAY BREAD

Sun., Dec. 14, purchase your Christmas tsoureki from Daughters of Penelope and

Sun., Dec. 28, get Vasilopita from the Youth Choir.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

HERITAGE GREECE PROGRAM The National Hellenic Society is sponsoring Greek American college students to spend 2 weeks in Greece (June 11-28, 2015) at the American College of Greece, where students will receive academic credit. Students are responsible for airfare costs to and from Athens, but the grant covers all other expenses. Eligible candidates must be of Greek-American descent, enrolled in college, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Candidates that have never or seldom been to Greece are given priority. http://www.acg.edu/admissions/study-abroad/heritage-greece Submissions due Mar. 27

HELLENIC BIRTHRIGHT The PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation is sponsoring ALL fees, accommodations and other expenses for a study abroad program for 20 U.S. undergrad students (ages 18-25) of Hellenic descent who have never been to Greece or last visited Greece under the age of 8. June 19-July 19, 2015, study at American College of Thessaloniki and include travel to historic sites. Students can earn three (3) transferable college credits. Info at www.panhellenicscholarships.org Application deadline: Fri., March 27, 2015.

Thomas A. Stamatis Cleveland Metro AHEPA Chapter No. 389 and Daughters of Penelope Chapter #321 Five scholarships are being offered to students graduating from high school this year, and whose parents are members of these AHEPA/Daughters of Penelope Chapters or members in good standing at St. Demetrios Church. Applications available in the church office, or E-Mail pmanos@sbcglobal.net Submissions due by April 15, 2015. Awards will be presented in church after the Divine Liturgy on AHEPA Day, Sunday May 17, 2015. Winners will be notified and must be present

John M. Manos Cleveland AHEPA #36 Available to graduating high school seniors of Greek descent. Applications in the church office. Submission deadline April 17, 2015. The Scholarships will be awarded on Thu., May 7 at our 50^th anniversary program.

Buckeye AHEPA For students whose parent(s) is/are members of one of the AHEPA or DOP chapters in Buckeye District #11 (Ohio, W.Virginia, Kentucky.) In addition, parents or guardians must have been a member for the past 3 consecutive years. Application available at w ww.bsf.buckeyedistrict11.org Submissions are due by April 15, 2015.

National Daughters of Penelope is offering 14 perpetual scholarships and 11 annual scholarships to qualifying young women enrolled in Graduate and Undergraduate programs. Application available in the church office or www.dopfoundationinc.com Submission deadline is May 15, 2015

National AHEPA www.ahepa.org/ahepa/assets/pdfs/2015_AEF_Application.pdf

Daughters of Penelope Zoe Cavalaris Outstanding Female Athlete Award Honoring a young women of Hellenic descent who has exhibited excellence in athletic ability and accomplishments in any sport or series of sports during the school year of Aug. 1, 2014-June 1, 2015. Application available in the church office. Submission deadline is June 1, 2015.

2015 FOCUS North America Internship Undergraduates and recent college grads (18 years or older) who are interested non-profit management and poverty reduction programs can gain firsthand exposure to the operations of an organization that provides healthcare, housing, job/workforce development, and other community development activities to the homeless and working poor families in North America. Internships typically require a 10 -12 week full-time commitment during the months of June – August.

2015 opportunities at our Pittsburgh headquarters:

1. National Program Intern, with some travel to FOCUS operations nationwide;

2. Research & Planning Intern, working primarily with the Youth Equipped to Serve (YES) Program field office with some travel.

All interns will receive stipends, but are responsible for their own housing.

Download and complete the internship application form at www.focusnorthamerica.org

Application Deadline is April 15th, 2015. Successful candidates will be informed of their acceptance by April 30, 2015.

GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA

~George & Naouma (Gioule) Gioles Scholarship and The Katina John Malta Scholarship- for undergrad students

~The Paleologos Scholarship- for graduate work of a non-theological nature.

Email scholarships@goarch.org for applications. Submission deadline: April 27

JOAN LAMBROS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Available to women of St. Demetrios Church who are pursuing a college or graduate school education in the Sciences. Applications in the church office (sdgoc@ohiocoxmail.com) Submission deadline: May 1, 2015.

1^ST ANNUAL DR. KOMNINOS FOTINOS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Available to any high school senior whose family is a member of St. Demetrios Church. Student needs to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Preference will be given to those pursuing a degree in healthcare. Application is available in the church office. Submission deadline is May 1, 2015.

THE NAFPAKTIAN CULTURAL FOUNDATION $500.00 scholarships available to High School Seniors AND current College students who are of Greek ancestry and permanent residents of Northeast Ohio. Information, requirements and application for both of these scholarships are available in the church office or download at: http://www.nafpaktian.org/index.php/non-vis/scholarships/

High school application deadline: June 15, 2015

College application deadline: Sept. 15, 2015

IONIAN VILLAGE Teens in Grades 8 -12 and young adults can travel across Greece, venerate relics of saints, and visit sites of Greek history, operated by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Teen Session I: June 22 – July 11; Teen Session II: July 19 – Aug. 7.

Spiritual Odyssey excursions for young adults ages 19-24: June 1-11.

Applications for participants and counselors at www.Ionianvillage.org

THE KULIS FOUNDATION is generously offering over $400,000 in various scholarships to students of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and other jurisdictions. Learn more and apply before April 1, 2015 http://kulisfoundation.org/college-christian-scholarships/

ELECTION RESULTS

Following last week's Election for the 2015 Parish Council, we congratulate returning board members Steve Alex, Jeanne Burpulis, Randy Carpenter, James Diamond, Nikolaos Petousis, Byron T. Spooner. The new board will be sworn-in on a date to be announced in January.

AGIO FITNESS WALK

Join fellow parishioners every Tuesday & Thursday from 9:30 -11 a.m. for 90 minutes of spiritual & physical wellness. Begin the morning with a 5-minute morning prayer in St. Philothei Chapel followed by walking in the Zapis Activity Center (at your own pace.) This Family Ministry program is for all parishioners.

GOYA GOINGS-ON

BASKETBALL BEGINS Basketball practices for upcoming tournaments begin this week. Boys meet Mondays & Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. Girls meet Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7-9 p.m.

GOYA GYRO SALE Sun., Nov. 9, in the hall immediately following Divine Liturgy.

SHUT- IN Fri., Nov. 14, overnight retreat in the Zapis Activity Center. Info at today’s meeting.

LEAF RAKING SERVICE DAY Sun., Nov. 23. More details at today’s meeting

"TALKING TO GOD"

August 11-15 is St. Demetrios Vacation Church school for kids in K-gr. 6. 9:30 a.m.-Noon daily. Registration forms on the church bulletin board. Register by Aug. 4 to ensure supplies. Free will donations to benefit Camp Nazareth fund. Parents are needed to help! Interested volunteers can contact the church office.

Parental Share Bulletin Insert Title - Please Edit

Survey on Science & Technology

In an effort to better serve our Archdiocese, the Archdiocesan Advisory Committee on Science & Technology (AACST) has developed a simple survey to learn about the particular interests and concerns of our people. The survey will take you less than 3 minutes to complete and your identity is completely protected.

Hellenic College Holy Cross Open House - October 11, 2014

Join the HCHC Community on Saturday, October 11, 2014 for an Open House from 10 AM - 4 PM. Meet professors and sit in on mini-classes; discover our dynamic undergraduate and graduate programs; tour our stunning campus overlooking the Boston skyline; find out about applying and paying for a college education; celebrate your faith; connect with other Orthodox Christian youth; hear beautiful Byzantine chant by seminarians; and more! Register Online at http://hchcopenhouse.eventbrite.com

St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - B&W

A Ground Blessing for the new St. Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center will be held on October 18, 2014, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will preside at this historic event. Share the information with your parish!

St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - Color

CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now!

CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now! Calling all high school juniors & seniors who may be interested in applying to this 10-day summer program at Hellenic College Holy Cross! For more information, visit our website: http://www.crossroadinstitute.org/

Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Second Mode

Angelic powers were above Thy tomb, and they that guarded Thee became as dead. And Mary stood by the grave seeking Thine immaculate Body. Thou hast despoiled Hades and wast not tried thereby. Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst grant us life. O Thou Who didst arise from the dead, Lord, glory be to Thee.

Apolytikion for Sun. of St. Gregory Palamas in the Plagal Fourth Mode

Light of Orthdoxy, pillar and teacher of the Church, adornment of monastics, invincible champion of theologians, O Gregory thou wonderworker, boast of Thessalonica, herald of grace: ever pray that our souls be saved.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode

To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!"

Saints and Feasts

March 08

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

This divine Father, who was from Asia Minor, was from childhood reared in the royal court of Constantinople, where he was instructed in both religious and secular wisdom. Later, while still a youth, he left the imperial court and struggled in asceticism on Mount Athos, and in the Skete at Beroea. He spent some time in Thessalonica being treated for an illness that came from his harsh manner of life. He was present in Constantinople at the Council that was convened in 1341 against Barlaam of Calabria, and at the Council of 1347 against Acindynus, who was of like mind with Barlaam; Barlaam and Acindynus claimed that the grace of God is created. At both these Councils, the Saint contended courageously for the true dogmas of the Church of Christ, teaching in particular that divine grace is not created, but is the uncreated energies of God which are poured forth throughout creation: otherwise it would be impossible, if grace were created, for man to have genuine communion with the uncreated God. In 1347 he was appointed Metropolitan of Thessalonica. He tended his flock in an apostolic manner for some twelve years, and wrote many books and treatises on the most exalted doctrines of our Faith; and having lived for a total of sixty-three years, he reposed in the Lord in 1359.

His holy relics are kept in the Cathedral of Thessalonica. A full service was composed for his feast day by the Patriarch Philotheus in 1368, when it was established that his feast be celebrated on this day. Since works without right faith avail nothing, we set Orthodoxy of faith as the foundation of all that we accomplish during the Fast, by celebrating the Triumph of Orthodoxy the Sunday before, and the great defender of the teachings of the holy Fathers today.

March 09

The Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebastia

These holy Martyrs, who came from various lands, were all soldiers under the same general. Taken into custody for their faith in Christ, and at first interrogated by cruel means, they were then stripped of their clothing and cast onto the frozen lake which is at Sebastia of Pontus, at a time when the harsh and freezing weather was at its worst. They endured the whole night naked in such circumstances, encouraging one another to be patient until the end. He that guarded them, named Aglaius, who was commanded to receive any of them that might deny Christ, had a vision in which he saw heavenly powers distributing crowns to all of the Martyrs, except one, who soon after abandoned the contest. Seeing this, Aglaius professed himself a Christian and joined the Martyrs on the lake, and the number of forty remained complete. In the morning, when they were almost dead from the cold, they were cast into fire, after which their remains were thrown into the river. Thus they finished the good course of martyrdom in 320, during the reign of Licinius. These are their names: Acacius, Aetius, Aglaius, Alexander, Angus, Athanasius, Candidus, Chudion, Claudius, Cyril, Cyrion, Dometian, Domnus, Ecdicius, Elias, Eunoicus, Eutyches, Eutychius, Flavius, Gaius, Gorgonius, Helianus, Heraclius, Hesychius, John, Lysimachus, Meliton, Nicholas, Philoctemon, Priscus, Sacerdon, Severian, Sisinius, Smaragdus, Theodulus, Theophilus, Valens, Valerius, Vivianus, and Xanthias.

March 10

Quadratus the Martyr & his Companions

These Martyrs contested for piety's sake in Corinth during the reign of the Emperor Valerian (253-260).

March 11

Sophronius, Patriarch of Jerusalem

This Saint was born in Damascus. As a young man he became a monk at the Monastery of Saint Theodosius the Cenobiarch in Palestine, where he met John Moschus and became his close friend. Having a common desire to search out ascetics from whom they could receive further spiritual instruction, they journeyed together through Palestine, Syria, Asia Minor, and Egypt, where they met the Patriarch of Alexandria, Saint John the Almsgiver, with whom they remained until 614, when Persians captured Jerusalem (see also Saint Anastasius the Persian, Jan. 22). Saint Sophronius and John Moschus departed Alexandria for Rome, where they remained until 619, the year of John Moschus' death. Saint Sophronius returned to the Monastery of Saint Theodosius the Cenobiarch, and there buried the body of his friend. He laboured much in defence of the Holy Fourth Council of Chalcedon, and traveled to Constantinople to remonstrate with Patriarch Sergius and the Emperor Heraclius for changing the Orthodox Faith with their Monothelite teachings. After the death of Patriarch Modestus in December of 634, Sophronius was elected Patriarch of Jerusalem. Although no longer in the hands of the Persians, the Holy Land was now besieged by the armies of the newly-appeared religion of Mohammed, which had already taken Bethlehem; in the Saint's sermon for the Nativity of our Lord in 634, he laments that he could not celebrate the feast in Bethlehem. In 637, for the sins of the people, to the uttermost grief of Saint Sophronius, the Caliph Omar captured Jerusalem. Having tended the flock of his Master for three years and three months, Saint Sophronius departed in peace unto Him Whom he loved on March 11, 638.

Saint Sophronius has left to the Church many writings, including the life of Saint Mary of Egypt. The hymn "O Joyous Light," which is wrongly ascribed to him, is more ancient than Saint Basil the Great, as the Saint himself confirms in his work "On the Holy Spirit" (ch. 29). However, it seems that this hymn, which was chanted at the lighting of the lamps and was formerly called "The Triadic Hymn," was later supplemented somewhat by Saint Sophronius, bringing it into the form in which we now have it. Hence, some have ascribed it to him.

March 12

Theophanes the Confessor

Saint Theophanes, who was born in 760, was the son of illustrious parents. Assenting to their demand, he married and became a member of the Emperor's ceremonial bodyguard. Later, with the consent of his wife, he forsook the world. Indeed, both of them embraced the monastic life, struggling in the monastic houses they themselves had established. He died on March 12, 815, on the island of Samothrace, whereto, because of his confession of the Orthodox Faith, he had been exiled by Leo the Armenian, the Iconoclast Emperor.

March 13

Pouplios the Martyr, Bishop of Athens

March 14

Benedict the Righteous of Nursia

This Saint, whose name means "blessed," was born in 480 in Nursia, a small town about seventy miles northeast of Rome. He struggled in asceticism from his youth in deserted regions, where his example drew many who desired to emulate him. Hence, he ascended Mount Cassino in Campania and built a monastery there. The Rule that he gave his monks, which was inspired by the writings of Saint John Cassian, Saint Basil the Great, and other Fathers, became a pattern for monasticism in the West; because of this, he is often called the first teacher of monks in the West. He reposed in 547.

Wisdom of the Fathers

Now Matthew indeed saith, that "they brought him," but the others, that they also broke up the roof, and let him down. And they put the sick man before Christ, saying nothing, but committing the whole to Him.

St. John Chrysostom

Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century

For though in the beginning He Himself went about, and did not require so much faith of them that came unto Him; yet in this case they both approached Him, and had faith required on their part. For, "Seeing," it is said, "their faith;" that is, the faith of them that had let the man down.

St. John Chrysostom

Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century

For He doth not on all occasions require faith on the part of the sick only: as for instance, when they are insane, or in any other way, through their disease, are out of their own control. Or rather, in this case the sick man too had part in the faith; for he would not have suffered himself to be let down, unless he had believed.

St. John Chrysostom

Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century

Forasmuch then as they had evinced so great faith, He also evinces His own power ... He healed first that which is invisible, the soul, by forgiving his sins; ... He, in fact, in His abundance of counsel, made use of their envy for the manifestation of the miracle.

St. John Chrysostom

Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century

Take up your bed. Carry the very mat that once carried you. Change places, so that what was the proof of your sickness may now give testimony to your soundness. Your bed of pain becomes the sign of healing, its very weight the measure of the strength that has been restored to you.

St. Peter Chrysologus

Homily 50.6. Taken from: Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Vol. 2: Mark. Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 2005, p. 27.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News

Archbishop Demetrios to travel to Alabama for the 50th Commemoration of the “March on Selma”

03/04/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/selmavisitannounc-03042015

Archbishop Demetrios, the Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in America will take part in the events commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the historic March on Selma, led by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in which Archbishop Iakovos of North and South America also participated, along with other civil rights leaders on March 15, 1965.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Mourns the tragic death of Fr Matthew Baker

03/02/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/frbaker-accident-03022015

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, on behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod and the plentitude of the clergy and laity of the Archdiocese, expressed the deep sorrow and mourning of the Church for the untimely and tragic death of Rev. Fr. Matthew Baker, as a result of a car accident last night

NY GOYA Youth Present Donations for St. Nicholas and Assistance to Greece

02/27/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/5boro-goya-02272015

Representatives of the GOYA groups (Greek Orthodox Youth of America) in New York’s five boroughs visited His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, Feb. 24, at his office and presented a donation of $10,000 dollars as their contribution to the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas at the World Trade Center.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015

02/20/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicallent2015

In the hymns and services of the Triodion period and at the entrance of this holy season of Great Lent, we are called to repentance. We are invited to come before God in the humility of the Publican. We are beckoned to return to His dwelling and His compassionate embrace as the Prodigal Son. We are confronted with the causes of our separation from God and our need for His great mercy. It is truly a time of repentance as we prepare to commemorate and contemplate all that has been done for us through Christ our Lord.

Archbishop Demetrios Offers Condolences on the Slaying of Coptic Orthodox Christians in Libya - Archdiocese to Participate in a Special Prayer Service

02/19/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/condolencesforcopticchristians

After learning about the recent brutal slaying of twenty-one Coptic Orthodox Christians from Egypt by the members of ISIS, Archbishop Demetrios of America, on behalf of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA, issued letters of condolences to the Coptic Orthodox Bishops in the United States. The Coptic Orthodox Christians were kidnapped in December and January from Libya and were held captive until their massacre.

FDF2015 - The largest gathering of Greek Orthodox Youth in the U.S.

02/16/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/fdf2015release1-02162015

The 2015 Greek Orthodox Folk Dance and Choral Festival (FDF2015) just concluded another very successful year and its four-day weekend celebration of Faith, Dance and Fellowship. FDF is the largest gathering of Greek-Orthodox young people in the United States and arguably the largest youth festival of traditional Greek dancing in the world. Approximately 2,500 young people took part as dancers, musicians and singers, and more than 3,500 people attended in total, including parents, grandparents and friends.

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

02/12/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/fdfonline2015-02122015

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopsschedule02102015-en

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

02/06/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-02-06-2014

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

02/06/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/trakatelisfellow-02062014

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.

2015-2016 Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships Available

02/04/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/scholarshipapps-02042015

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/photiosencyclical2015

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthreehierarchs2015

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-01-23-2014

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

01/21/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/ionianvillagefaith-01212015

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.

Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015

02/20/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicallent2015

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

02/03/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/photiosencyclical2015

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

01/26/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthreehierarchs2015

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

12/29/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/january1encyclical2015

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/nativityencyclical2014

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Thanksgiving Day 2014

11/20/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthanksgiving2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalarchangels2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/unmercenariesencyclical2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicaloxiday2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclialleadership1002014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalcross2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/indictionencyclical2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/dormitionencyclical2014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/call-for-prayer-middleeast-07292014

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

http://www.goarch.org/news/archiepiscopal4thjuly2014encyclical-en

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.

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Hellenic College Holy Cross Open House - October 11, 2014

St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - B&W

St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - Color

CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now!

Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Second Mode

Apolytikion for Sun. of St. Gregory Palamas in the Plagal Fourth Mode

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode

Saints and Feasts

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

The Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebastia

Quadratus the Martyr & his Companions

Sophronius, Patriarch of Jerusalem

Theophanes the Confessor

Pouplios the Martyr, Bishop of Athens

Benedict the Righteous of Nursia

Wisdom of the Fathers

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News

Archbishop Demetrios to travel to Alabama for the 50th Commemoration of the “March on Selma”

03/04/2015

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Mourns the tragic death of Fr Matthew Baker

03/02/2015

NY GOYA Youth Present Donations for St. Nicholas and Assistance to Greece

02/27/2015

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015

02/20/2015

Archbishop Demetrios Offers Condolences on the Slaying of Coptic Orthodox Christians in Libya - Archdiocese to Participate in a Special Prayer Service

02/19/2015

FDF2015 - The largest gathering of Greek Orthodox Youth in the U.S.

02/16/2015

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

02/12/2015

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

02/10/2015

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

02/06/2015

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

02/06/2015

2015-2016 Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships Available

02/04/2015

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

02/03/2015

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

01/26/2015

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

Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015