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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2014-10-26
Bulletin Contents
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Bulletin Inserts
Sunday Solemn Vesper Services
Hymns of the Day
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News
Wisdom of the Fathers
Saints and Feasts
Message from Archbishop Demetrios
Parish News and Events
Demetrio
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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (773) 626-3114
  • Fax:
  • (773) 626-3141
  • Street Address:

  • 601 South Central Avenue

  • Chicago, IL 60644-5089

Contact Information

Proistamenos Very Rev. Timothy Bakakos

frtimothy@assumptionchicago.org | 773-626-3114

Associate Pastor Rev. Fr. Dimitrios Burikas


frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org | 773-626-3114

Services Schedule

Worship Hours:

Sunday

8:30 am - Orthros

10:00 am - Divine Liturgy

Sunday Summer Hours
8:00 am - Orthros

9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Sunday Church School 

 9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Weekday Services

8:30 am - Orthros

9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Past Bulletins


Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

The Reading is from St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy 2:1-10

TIMOTHY, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me before many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier on service gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to satisfy the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hardworking farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. Think over what I say, for the Lord will grant you understanding in everything.

Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, descended from David, as preached in my gospel, the gospel for which I am suffering and wearing fetters like a criminal. But the word of God is not fettered. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain salvation in Christ Jesus with its eternal glory.

Gospel Reading

6th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 8:26-39

At that time, as Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, there met him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech you, do not torment me." For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.) Jesus then asked him, "What is your name?" And he said, "Legion"; for many demons had entered him. And they begged him not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged him to let them enter these. So he gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. When the herdsmen saw what happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked him to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so he got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him; but he sent him away, saying, "Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you." And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.

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Bulletin Inserts

    Survey on Science & Technology

    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

    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

    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

    St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - Color

    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!

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Third Mode

Let the Heavens rejoice; let earthly things be glad; for the Lord hath wrought might with His arm, He hath trampled upon death by death. The first-born of the dead hath He become. From the belly of Hades hath He delivered us, and hath granted great mercy to the world.

Apolytikion for Commemoration of the Great Earthquake in Constantinople in the Plagal Fourth Mode

O Thou Who lookest on the earth and makest it tremble, deliver us from the fearful menace of earthquake, O Christ our God, and by the intercessions of the Theotokos, send down upon us Thy mercies in abundance and save us.

Apolytikion for The Holy Great Martyr Demetrius the Myrrh-streamer in the Third Mode

A Great champion hath the whole world found thee to be when in grave perils; for thou dost put to flight the heathen, O victorious one. As thou didst humble Lyaeus's arrogance and gaveth boldness to Nestor in the stadium, thus, O holy Great Martyr Demetrius, do thou entreat Christ God that we be granted great mercy.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Second Mode

O Protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame, mediation unto the creator most constant: O despise not the voices of those who have sinned; but be quick, O good one, to come unto our aid, who in faith cry unto thee: Hasten to intercession and speed thou to make supplication, O thou who dost ever protect, O Theotokos, them that honor thee.

Apolytikion in the Plagal of the First Tone

Let us praise the most auspicious bride of Christ, the divine Catherine, protectress of Sinai, our aid and our help. For, she brilliantly silenced the eloquence of the impious by the sword of the spirit, and now, crowned as a martyr, she asks great mercy for all.

Kontakion in the Second Tone

O friends of martyrs, now divinely raise up a renewed chorus, praising the all-wise Catherine. For, she proclaimed Christ in the arena, trampled on the serpent, and spat upon the knowledge of the orators.
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Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News

The 42nd Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress Convenes in Philadelphia July 6-10

06/20/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/pre-clcongress-rel-06202014
The 42nd Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America will convene in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, July 6- 10, 2014, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Hotel and it will focus on the theme of this Congress “The Orthodox Christian Family: A Dwelling of Christ and a Witness of His Gospel.”

New Survey to Assess Resources of the Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries

06/12/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/youthsurvey-06-12-2014
The Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries (Y2AM), of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, designed an online survey to assess its existing resources and channels of communication with young people with the goal of creating more effective means of ministering to youth and young adults.

Comprehensive Examination in Modern Greek Scheduled for June 23

06/12/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/greeklanguageexam-06-12-2014
The 2014 Comprehensive Examination in Modern Greek will be administered on Monday, June 23, from 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., according to an announcement from the Direct Archdiocesan District Office of Education.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Joins Pope Francis at a Vatican Invocation for Peace

06/09/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/VaticanInvocationforPeace
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Joins Pope Francis at a Vatican Invocation for Peace

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

10/10/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopsschedule101012014-en

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

10/10/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/st%20nicholas%20groundblessing-10102014
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

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.

Archbishop Demetrios to Make Official Visit to Cyprus

10/06/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/cyprusvisit-10062014
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.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Join Pope Francis for Vatican Prayer Summit

06/06/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/vaticanprayersummit2014
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of over 300 million Orthodox Christian faithful worldwide, will join Pope Francis at the Vatican for a prayer summit on the evening of June 8, 2014 in an intensive spiritually-focused initiative for Middle East peace process. Together with the Pope and the Ecumenical Patriarch, the Israeli President Shimon Peres and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will participate in an interfaith prayer service of Muslims, Jews and Christians for peace in the region.

Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation Urges Church To Lift Ban on Ordination of Married Priests in Eastern Catholic Churches in North America

06/06/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/orthodox-catholic-consultation-married-priests
The North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation voted in early June to encourage the "lifting of the restrictions regarding the ordination of married men to the priesthood in the Eastern Catholic Churches of North America."

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for June 3-15, 2014

06/03/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-06-03-2014

Saint Basil Academy to Celebrate 70th Anniversary

06/03/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/stbasil70thanniv-06032014
Saint Basil Academy will celebrate its 70th Anniversary, June 21, 2014, in its magnificent campus by the Hudson River, in Garrison, NY.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for May 20-June 6, 2014

05/21/2014

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

EWTN Network to Broadcast Live Ecumenical Celebration of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis in Jerusalem

05/20/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/goa_news.2014-05-20.7388304289
On Sunday, May 25, 2014, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis will meet at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher to commemorate a meeting in the Holy Land fifty years ago by their revered predecessors, Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras and Pope Paul VI.

Ecumenical Patriarchate Announces Official Delegation for Meeting with Pope Francis in Jerusalem May 25, 2014

05/16/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/patriarchaldelegation-05162014
The Ecumenical Patriarchate today released a list of persons accompanying Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of over 300 million Orthodox faithful worldwide, on his pilgrimage to meet Pope Francis in Jerusalem. The trip commemorates the 1964 meeting of their predecessors; Pope Paul VI and Patriarch Athenagoras I.

Archbishop Demetrios, Catholic Archbishop Kurtz Celebrate Growing Closeness Between Orthodox and Catholics Ahead of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Pope Francis Meeting in Jerusalem

05/15/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/jerusalem-join-statement
Fifty years ago, in January 1964, two great Christian leaders met in Jerusalem. Pope Paul VI of Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras of Constantinople swept aside centuries of hostility and embraced one another in the city where Christ was crucified and rose from the dead.

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

05/15/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/sundayahepaencyclical05182014-en
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.

The Meeting of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis in the City of Jerusalem

05/10/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/apostolicpilgrimage
On Sunday, May 25, 2014, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis will meet at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher to commemorate a meeting in the Holy Land fifty years ago by their revered predecessors, Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras and Pope Paul VI.

Archimandrite Cleopas Strongylis Elected Metropolitan of Sweden

05/05/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/cleopasstrongylis-05052014
The Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople elected unanimously today the Very Reverend Archimandrite Cleopas Strongylis Metropolitan of Sweden and All Scandinavia. His Grace Metropolitan elect Cleopas Strongylis has been serving as the Dean of the Annunciation Cathedral in Boston, Massachusetts.
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Wisdom of the Fathers

Faith is the beginning of our union with God: the true believers are the stone of the church of God, prepared for the edifice of God the Father, which is raised up to the heights by the power of Jesus Christ, that is, by the Cross and help of the grace of the Holy Spirit. "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:26). The works of faith are love, peace, longsuffering, mercy, humility, bearing one's cross and life by the Spirit. True faith cannot remain without works. One who truly believes will also surely perform good works.
St. Seraphim of Sarov
Unknown, 19th century

For if we, going about on the earth which is familiar and well known to us, being encompassed with a body, when we are journeying in a strange road, know not which way to go unless we have some one to lead us; how should the soul, being rent away from the body, and having gone out from all her accustomed region, know where to walk without one to show her the way?
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 28 on Matthew 8, 4th Century

Some say, 'Why do they [demons] possess people?' I answer those who wish to have this explained that the reason of these things is very deep. Somewhere one of His saints addressed God by saying, 'Your judgments are a vast abyss.' As long as we bear this in mind, we will perhaps not miss the mark.
St. Cyril of Alexandria
Commentary on Luke, Homily 44. (Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture; vol 3: Luke, Intervarsity Press)

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Saints and Feasts

Demetrio
October 26

The Holy Great Martyr Demetrius the Myrrh-streamer

Saint Demetrius was a Thessalonian, a most pious son of pious and noble parents, and a teacher of the Faith of Christ. When Maximian first came to Thessalonica in 290, he raised the Saint to the rank of Duke of Thessaly. But when it was discovered that the Saint was a Christian, he was arrested and kept bound in a bath-house. While the games were under way in the city, Maximian was a spectator there. A certain friend of his, a barbarian who was a notable wrestler, Lyaeus by name, waxing haughty because of the height and strength of his body, boasted in the stadium and challenged the citizens to a contest with him. All that fought with him were defeated. Seeing this, a certain youth named Nestor, aquaintance of Demetrius', came to the Saint in the bath-house and asked his blessing to fight Lyaeus single-handed. Receiving this blessing and sealing himself with the sign of the precious Cross, he presented himself in the stadium, and said, "O God of Demetrius, help me!" and straightway he engaged Lyaeus in combat and smote him with a mortal blow to the heart, leaving the former boaster lifeless upon the earth. Maximian was sorely grieved over this, and when he learned who was the cause of this defeat, he commanded straightway and Demetrius was pierced with lances while he was yet in the bath-house, As for Nestor, Maximian commanded that he be slain with his own sword.

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Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Encyclical of the Holy Eparchial Synod on the Rebuilding of Saint Nicholas

04/29/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/synodencyclical-stnicholas-04282014
We, the Hierarchs who constitute the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, greet all the Parishes around our great Nation with love and joy, and with significant good news.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy Pascha 2014

04/19/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/paschaencyclical2014
On this beautiful and glorious Feast of Feasts, our hearts and minds are filled with brilliant light and abundant joy in the presence of the Risen Christ. He is in our midst now and forever, in all His holiness and glory, having offered Himself as a pure sacrifice for our sins. He is before us and within us as the Victor over corruption and death, offering true and abundant life through His grace. Our Lord embraces us on this day of exaltation and praise as our Redeemer, guiding us in the way of salvation and sanctifying us for eternal life.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Greek Independence Day Parade - March 30, 2014

03/21/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/paradeencyclical2014
In the joy and fellowship of our shared heritage and faith, I invite you to participate in our annual Greek Independence Day Parade. This year’s parade will be held on Sunday, March 30 on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, and through a strong and vibrant presence of our Omogeneia, we have a tremendous opportunity to affirm publicly an enduring witness of truth and freedom.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Annunciation and Greek Independence Day 2014

03/21/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalannunciation2014
Today we celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation, the crown of our salvation and ultimate human restoration, and the revelation of the mystery that is from all eternity. We worship in adoration and thanksgiving the Son of God who became the Son of the Virgin. We join with the Archangel Gabriel and the heavenly hosts in honoring the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. In the midst of this solemn and holy Lenten season, we exult in this manifestation of the grace of God for our liberation from evil and guilt.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Beginning of Great Lent 2014

02/27/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicallent2014
On this journey we are led by the prayers and services of the Church to reflect on our struggles and our spiritual challenges. We are called into the holiness of worship and the presence of God, so that we might see our weaknesses and the aspects of our lives that are contrary to His divine and saving will. However, Lent is not a time of despair, hopelessness and defeat. It is a season of grace.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of St. Photios and St. Photios National Shrine Day

02/03/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/stphotiosencyclical2014
Events, as the above, are also witnesses of the strength of faith in our lives as Greek Orthodox Christians and in our Greek American community. We have and continue to see how our faith brings us together in mutual support and commitment to the mission of the Church and the sharing of the Gospel. Many who are members of our Hellenic organizations are also members of our parishes and contribute their time and resources regularly to ministry at all levels of the Church in America. In addition, they lead and serve both in the parish and the Greek American community in promoting the cherished relationship of our heritage and our faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Three Hierarchs and Greek Letters Day - January 30, 2014

01/24/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/threehierarchs2014
The teaching and witness of the Three Hierarchs presents to us an authentic synergy between person and community. Each of us is called individually through the Gospel to meet the Risen Christ, to believe in Him and receive the forgiveness and grace of God. We are offered the opportunity to be renewed through communion with Him, to live daily according to His will, to strive toward our created potential as human beings, and to receive the gift of eternal life. We are also called to live, worship, and serve in community. We gather together to worship the One who gives us life and purpose. Through our worship, the Holy Sacraments, and through the preaching and teaching ministries of the Church we receive strength and guidance in the life of faith. As the family of God, brothers and sisters in Christ, we join together in service to one another and to any in need.

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

12/27/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalnewyear2014
Thus, at the beginning of this new year and the beginning of each and every day, our hope must rest securely in Christ. We might anticipate what may come in the months ahead, but our anticipation should come from a foundation of hope in the will and power of God. This is a hope that cannot be quenched or extinguished. It is a hope that can withstand any struggle or challenge that may come. It is a hope that can carry our souls to great spiritual heights when the wondrous and marvelous work of God is revealed.

Encyclical of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for Christmas 2013

12/16/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/patriarxikiapodixeisxristougennon2013-en
The sweetness of the Holy Night of Christmas once again embraces the world. And in the midst of human trial and pain, of unending crises, of passion and enmity, of concern and despair, it presents the mystery of the Incarnation of the Divine Word as a genuine and timely solution. For He descended as dew in a field of cotton inside the womb of the ever-Virgin Mary in order to give rise to righteousness and much peace. (See Ps. 71.7)

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ 2013

12/16/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopschristmas2013encyclical-en
It is into the midst of the plight of humanity and these challenges that we carry the message of this Feast: For unto us a Child is born and unto us a Son is given! We share a Gospel of hope and promise. Christ has become man, and this unique gift to us has become the spiritual foundation for our offering to others in need. In gratitude to Him, in our compassion for our fellow human beings, and as a witness of the greatest gift of all, we offer to those who have lost everything, who carry the burden of despair, who suffer under conditions they cannot control or change, who have been victims of the abuse of others. They need to hear and see that God has given Himself to them, that His grace is revealed through Christ so that they might have hope and true life.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Thanksgiving Day 2013

11/22/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/thanksgiving2013encyclical-en
When we commune with Him and offer our prayers of thanksgiving for all that He gives to us, we have no need for anxiety or worry. From day to day and year to year the circumstances of our lives will change. Challenges will come. Great joy and happiness will be experienced. Dear family members and friends will leave this temporal life. New relationships will begin. Through all of this, we are encouraged by the Apostle Paul to have no anxiety about anything because our trust is in our Creator and Redeemer.

Archiepiscopal Encyclical Calling for Prayers and Support for the Victims of the Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines

11/15/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/philippines-encyclical-11152013
On behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, I greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, bringing to your attention the dreadful devastation produced by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines on November 8th and asking for your prayers and assistance at these difficult times for millions of people.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Archangels - November 8, 2013

11/06/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/goa_news.2013-11-06.5632953259
The power to bring sanctity into any place in this world is also given to each of us when we live in Christ, and we seek to bear fruit in the lives of others. On this feast we recognize this especially in the ministry offered by Saint Michael’s Home in New York. For over fifty years, the staff and directors of Saint Michael’s have offered compassionate service to the elderly, and in so doing have created a place of love, grace, and holiness.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Unmercenaries - November 1, 2013

10/29/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/holyunmerceriesencyclical102913-en
This commemoration of Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian and our offering of support to the philanthropic ministries of our Patriarchate represent the very meaning of philanthropy. In response to God’s grace in their lives, Cosmas and Damian used their skills to offer compassionate service to all. Their motivation to respond was not based on the worthiness of a person, nor was it dependent on the social or economic status of the one in need. Freely they had received the power of healing through the grace of God, and freely they gave as a witness of the true life that is found in Christ.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for OXI Day - October 28, 2013

10/23/2013

http://www.goarch.org/news/oxiday2013archbishopsencyclical-en
As Orthodox Christians, we are called to live and do justly, to confront the machinations of evil, and to do so in the grace of God with a love for life and for others who are created in His image and likeness. Our just and holy ways should also be characterized by dignity and humility. True, decent humility is not a sign of weakness, but of great strength and faith, revealing a deep and abiding trust in the sacredness of the human person and in the power and promises of God.
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Parish News and Events

 PARISH NEWS AND EVENTS

Memorials:
5 Years ~ Emily (Amalia) Cotsirilos, No Pews

Coffee Fellowship:

Today's Coffee Fellowship is hosted by the Family of Emily Cotsirilos in her memory. Everyone is invited to Plato Hall to enjoy Fellowship.

 Sunday Church School:

Divine Liturgy begins promptly at 9:45am in St. Catherine's Chapel. Classes will take place immediately following the Divine Liturgy in Plato School.  If you have not, as yet, registered your child for the 2014-15 school year, please do so by contacting the Church Office, securing a registration form online at our Church’s Website (www.assumptionchicago.org), or by speaking with our SCS Director, Mrs. Christina Arvanites.

Stewardship Message:

Encourage Active Stewards To Spread The Word

As parishioners and caretakers of this Parish, we need to launch a deliberate effort to specifically ask people for an ongoing commitment to pray, give, and tell others about your parish ministries.  Those who commit are with you, so emphasize appreciation and updates with them instead of the usual appeals that everyone else gets.  It is the mission of everyone, not just the priest and Parish Council.

2014 Stewardship:

We thank and are appreciative to all stewards who have pledged to our beloved Parish of Panagia.  Through your continued and loving support, the Parish Council has been able to serve as caretakers and deal with the needs and priorities that face our Church.  We ask that you complete your 2014 pledge card and return it to the church office at your convenience.

Outreach Thought for the Week:  Friendliness has Eternal Implications

Remember that Zacchaeus was converted merely by Christ’s acceptance of him.  Reaching out to those who enter our doors with a sincere handshake, greeting and a welcoming smile could be the most important missionary work we do.

Dates to Remember:

Friday, October 25th
7:30 pm - JOY Meeting will meet at the River Forest Community Center,
8020 Madison Street, River Forest, IL

Saturday, November 1st
Feast Day of Sts. Cosmas & Damianos
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Sunday, November 2nd
Philoptochos Ladies Society offering an Artoclasia and a Memorial Service

Monday, November 3rd
7:00 pm – Adult Bible Study will meet in St. Catherine’s Meeting Room

Thursday, November 6th
6:30 pm – Grand Raffle Banquets, Fountain Blue Banquets, Des Plaines, IL

Saturday, November 8th
Synaxis of Archangels Michael & Gabriel
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Wednesday, November 12th
7:00 pm – SCS Staff Meeting in St. Catherine’s Meeting Room

Thursday, November 13th
Feast Day of St. John Chrysostom
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Thursday, November 13th
7:00 pm – Panagia Monthly Book Club will
meet at the Pan Arcadian House, Elmhurst, IL

Friday, November 14th
7:30 pm – Jr. GOYA Meeting will meet at the Oak Brook Park District,
1450 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook, IL

Ladies Philoptochos Membership Drive November and December:

During the months of November and December, the Ladies Philoptochos will be holding its “2015 Membership Drive”.  All ladies of our Parish of Panagia are invited and encouraged to become a member and participate in the many good works and acts of philanthropy that this organization participates in.  There will be a table set up in Plato Hall each Sunday during coffee fellowship hour, and Demetra Lakerdas and Pat Karabas will be available to answer any questions and to register you.  In addition, all current members of Philoptochos are encouraged to pay their 2015 dues.

Sunday, November 2nd the Philoptochos Ladies Society is offering an Artoclasia in honor of their patron Sts. Cosmas and Damianos and for the health and welfare of the Philoptochos members together with a Memorial Service for the deceased Philoptochos members.

Thursday, November 20th at 10:30 am there will be a General Meeting in St. Catherine’s Meeting room and on November 24th and 25th the Philoptochos ladies will host receptions for the Vespers and the Feast Day of St. Catherine.

Birth Announcement:

We are starting this new section for the weekly bulletin as well as the Church Newsletter to congratulate new parents on the birth of their children.  If you would like for us to post the great news to the community, please speak to either Fr. Timothy or call the Church Office 773-626-3114 with the good news.

National Leadership 100 Sunday:

Today, Sunday, October 26th, our Holy Archdiocese recognizes and gives thanks to the many faithful and steadfast members of Leadership 100, and celebrates the great achievements of the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, which, over 30 years since its founding by Archbishop Iakovos of Blessed Memory, has continuously provided assistance to the ministries of our Church for the glory of God. Through the generosity of many and through the grants and philanthropic endeavors of the members of Leadership 100, we all have benefitted, and have experienced what the Apostle Paul prayed for the Hebrews, namely that they “consider one another in order to stir up love and good works”.

The Organization of Leadership 100 has held as one of their precious missions, to give unwavering support of giving scholarships and grants to the young men who study at our Holy Cross Theological School. In addition, Leadership 100 has long supported the Retired Clergy Association, and also provided assistance to widowed presbyters.  It has also assisted, through their love and good works, to provide our youth and young adults and families through ministries in the care centers of our Church and in our summer camps across the United States.  Leadership 100 is also sensitive to the need of the Clergy to remain informed and knowledgeable of the world we live, so it provides funding for further education, wellness seminars, and ongoing education, which ultimately provides our Parishes befits as well.

We are honored to have several stewards/members of our Parish who also are members of Leadership 100.  To them and all its members, we thank you for your support, unwavering commitment, and continued love to Jesus Christ and His Church.

Sunday Church School 90 Acts of Kindness Challenge:

Our 90 Acts of Kindness Challenge continues to progress!  Thank you to all our fellow parishioners for the continued support of our Sunday Church School and its events. Together we are making a positive difference one kind act at a time!

Act of Kindness #1-10 Completed – Please visit our website or our bulletin board to see who benefited from these Acts of Kindness

Act of Kindness #11 – Now through December 28th we will be collecting gently used clothes (children and adult sizes) and new, twin bed sheets for disabled residents of group homes in the Metropolis of Monemvasia and Sparta, Greece. Collection boxes in St. Catherine’s Chapel Narthex

Act of Kindness #12– On November 2nd and 9th we will be donating our excess Halloween candy to Operation Gratitude for our military troops overseas. Collection boxes in the Narthex.

Act of Kindness #13 – On November 2nd and 9th we will be making snack packs for TLP (homeless teens in Chicago) Donations of granola bars, instant soup, prepackaged cookies/crackers welcomed.

Act of Kindness #14 – Throughout the year we will be collecting pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House *Ongoing

Act of Kindness #15 – High School Girls will have an opportunity to provide a day of pampering to oncology patients at Rush Hospital through the efforts of an organization called Straight from the Heart.

There’s so much more kindness to spread and our Sunday Church School is just the right group to do it!! Our goal is 90 by our Anniversary Dinner on October 18, 2015! You can watch our progress as we fill in a “thermometer” that is displayed in St. Catherine’s Meeting room.

Next Orthodox Adult Bible Study, Monday, November 3rd:

Our Adult Bible Study will meet on Monday evening, November 3rd, at 7:00 pm, in Saint Catherine’s Meeting Room.  We have moved into study of another Epistle written by Saint Paul the Apostle, the Epistle to the Ephesians.  This class is open to all, and it is hoped that you will avail yourself to the opportunity to study the Bible in-depth.  All you need to bring along with you is your Bible.  For further information and/or questions, please see Father Timothy.

Panagia’s Monthly Book Club:

Our Monthly Book Club has commenced for this fall.  The next gathering will be Thursday, November 13th at the Pan Arcadian House, 880 North York Road, Elmhurst, IL.  The discussion will center on the Life of St. Constantine.  The Monthly Book Club will meet the 2nd Thursday of each month.  If you would like to join the group or want further information, please contact Father Athanasios.

 Establishment of Assumption Prayer Ministry:

The Assumption Adult Bible Study Group has developed an idea that may be of interest to parishioners and friends of our Panagia Parish.  They are interested in being able to form a ministry comprised of individuals who would like to pray for the health of those individuals who may be ill or experiencing health issues.  Our Orthodox Faith teaches us that the ‘power of prayer’ literally works miracles, and Jesus instructs us in the Bible that we should “always pray for one another in the fellowship of love and through the Holy Spirit”.   As a Panagia Parish, we are united as brothers and sisters in Christ, and we are encouraged to pray for one another as any family would do.  So, how do we plan to do it?  It’s simple, easy, and spiritually uplifting and rewarding.  Here is what we can all do:

  • If you are interested in participating, you need only submit your name and email address to the Church Office or Fr. Timothy.
  • When a name is submitted to be prayed for, you will be contacted by email, given the first name of the person to be prayed for, along with the prayer to be read by you, offering the prayer for the intercession of God upon that individual, and asking that the afflicted be healed by God’s abundant blessing.
  • Your prayer, together along with the many others who are offering a prayer for the person who is ill, will bring comfort beyond comprehension.

Just think about that….our prayers collectively praying for a person who needs the loving and tender Hand of God during his/her special time of need.  It’s that simple.  Just provide us with your email address, and you can join this ministry team who will pray for the person who needs help the most.  It costs nothing, takes only a few seconds to do, but will make us all part of a spiritual family that looks and cares for one another.

Assumption Choir:

Mrs. Marika Panton, our Choir Director, has again put out the call to any and all interested people who might like to become a part of the Church Choir.  They are always looking for energetic voices to compliment the fine voices who are already a part of our Assumption Choir.  If you are interested, you may contact Marika at 708.366.7435.

 College Students -- Check Out OCF  (Orthodox Christian Fellowship):

To our young people who are going away to college for the first time, or to those returning to school to continue their studies, Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) is the organization which keeps you connected to your Church and your Orthodox Faith.  OCF has 300 chapters in colleges and universities throughout North America.  So be sure to check out their web site to locate and find out about your chapter --  WWW.OCF.NET.  We also encourage our college young people to share their e-mail addresses with our Church so that we may keep them informed of their “Spiritual Home” while they are away.  And always remember, your Assumption Church’s weekly Divine Liturgy Services are just a click away on your computer each Sunday as we now broadcast live each Sunday.  Just access it by going to our website at:  www.assumptionchicago.org

 Bookstore:

Do you need gifts for your family or relatives?  Then please visit the Bookstore in Plato Hall after the Divine Liturgy on Sundays.  There you will find unique gifts for everyone, such as books for children and adults, icons of your or your children’s patron saints, crosses, key chains and other beautiful items, which will make much appreciated gifts this year.  Please stop in and browse, you’ll be glad you did.

Coffee Fellowship Hosts Needed:

Have you considered selecting a day to host the Weekly Fellowship Hour following Worship Services on a specific Sunday in 2014?  You might want to celebrate a family event, a memorial, or just want to share time with the Church family.  The following dates for 2014 are available:

December 28

Please call the Church Office (773.626.3114) to book a date and for more information.

Prosfora Bakers Needed:

One of the blessings of Stewardship that we are given is the ability to serve our Church in a number of ways.  Our Church is in need of individuals who can offer the weekly Prosforo (Bread) for the Divine Liturgy.  Should you be able to offer your service, please inform the Church office or see either Fr. Timothy or Mrs. Demetra Spyropoulos.  With the help of each steward/member, we come together as a Church family to better offer our thanks to our Lord.

Cemetery Graves:

Periodically, we place a reminder in our Weekly Bulletin about the availability of cemetery plots (graves) for purchase from our Church in the Panagia sections at Elmwood Cemetery.  For further information, please call the Church office and speak with Gail (773.626.3114).

Proper Church Etiquette:

Worship Services are vital instruments and components to our prayer development.  In order to help us achieve this, we need to be cognizant of our fellow parishioners and all those around us.  Therefore, please make sure that cell phones are completely turned off during Services.  In addition, while we most welcome children to participate in the liturgical life of the Church, it remains the responsibility of parents to make sure that children do not become a distraction to those around them.  Therefore, if a child is crying, or in some way in need of attention, please feel free to take him/her to the Narthex or Cry Room.  You are most welcome to enter and exit the Church proper as many times as necessary.  By doing this, all who are in attendance will be afforded the opportunity to worship and pray together. (Please keep in mind that we are also privileged to have a complete Sunday School Liturgy celebrated in Saint Catherine’s Chapel each week for your use as well).  We ask for your cooperation.  Ushers will be available to help you, if needed.

Holy Communion Announcement:

While we pray and work for the reconciliation and unity of all the world’s Christians, the reality remains that there is still no intercommunion between our Orthodox Churches and the Churches of the West.  This means that only baptized, chrismated, and observant Orthodox faithful are allowed to receive Holy Communion in our churches.  At the same time, we warmly welcome all non-Orthodox to join us in prayer and celebration, and humbly offer to all present the Antidoro bread of fellowship at the end of the worship service.  We offer this important symbol ‘instead of the Gifts’, in the words of the Apostle Paul, ‘Till we all come to the unity of the Faith’ (Eph. 4.13).

We Need Your E-mail Address:

Are you receiving the weekly bulletin online in your e-mail mailbox each week?  How about our Assumption Church’s Newsletter and the Saint Catherine’s Newsletter?  If not, please give the Church Office your e-mail address so that you can stay informed about the schedule of religious services, events, and news of our Community.

Website News:    www.assumptionchicago.org

We are excited to announce that many additions/changes have been made to our Church’s Website.  In addition to upcoming events in our Parish and throughout our Metropolis of Chicago, we are constantly updating information as well regarding our faith.  You can find articles and resources for the Orthodox Church on our web site.  They include the history of Orthodoxy, special Services and Blessings, Spirituality, Teachings of the Orthodox Church, how to become a member of the Orthodox Church, the meaning and celebration of The Holy Eucharist, the form and characteristics of Orthodox worship, the Sacrament of Confession, Holy Week Meditation and Study Guide, Fasting, and many others.  We have up loaded the current editions of the Assumption Newsletter and the St. Catherine Newsletter, and are available for reading online.  Through the help of Mr. Chris Panos, we have also uploaded all previous newsletters dating back to 2008. They are now available online.  Just log on to our website www.assumptionchicago.org, and see the many changes we have made.

Our Sunday Church Services are broadcast live on the Internet each week:

A reminder to all, in April of last year, our Parish of Panagia began broadcasting live to the internet each Sunday.  This is of particular benefit to our shut-ins, elderly, college students, and vacationers who are away from home, yet need to receive the benefit and blessing of the weekly Divine Liturgy experience.  All you need to do is log on to our website www.assumptionchicago.org, and click the link to begin watching the Worship Service live.  We have also archived our Services allowing anyone to click and watch the Service/sermon at their leisure.  We encourage you to give it a try.

Ushers:

Chris Limperis, Jack Woods, Mary Ellen Woods, John Vassiliades, Dean Sarantos

 

 

 

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