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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2014-12-21
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
Petermoscow
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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 Letter to the Hebrews 11:9-10; 32-40

BRETHREN, by faith Abraham sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundation, whose builder and maker is God.

And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets - who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated - of whom the world was not worthy - wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us,that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

Gospel Reading

Sunday before Nativity
The Reading is from Matthew 1:1-25

The book of the Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king.

And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.

And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel" (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.

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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!

    CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now!

    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/

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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 Forefeast of the Nativity in the First Mode

O Bethlehem, rejoice; Ephratha, make thou ready; * for in her womb the Ewe-lamb doth bear the Great Shepherd, * and lo, she now urgently maketh haste to give birth to Him. * On beholding Him, the righteous God-bearing Fathers * all rejoice, and with the shepherds sing hymns in praise of * the Virgin that nursed a child.

Apolytikion for Sun. before Nativity in the Second Mode

Great are the achievements of faith! In the fountain of flame, as by the water of rest, the Three Holy Children rejoiced. And the Prophet Daniel proved a shepherd of lions as of sheep. By their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls.

Apolytikion of Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia in the Fourth Tone

O Lord Jesus, unto Thee Thy lamb doth cry with a great voice: O my Bridegroom, Thee I love; and seeking Thee, I now contest, and with Thy baptism am crucified and buried. I suffer for Thy sake, that I may reign with Thee; for Thy sake I die, that I may live in Thee: accept me offered out of longing to Thee as a spotless sacrifice. Lord, save our souls through her intercessions, since Thou art great in mercy.

Kontakion of Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia in the First Tone

A comely virgin wast thou, O wise Juliana; and as thy soul was wounded with love for thy Maker thy body was also pierced through with comely martyric wounds, which adorned thee as the bride of Christ and His Martyr; now as thou dost dwell in the bridechambers of Heaven, thou prayest for all of us.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Third Mode

On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.

Apolytikion of Great Martyr Catherine 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 of Great Martyr Catherine 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

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Nativity 2014

12/16/2014

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

Επίσκεψη του Υπαρχηγού Γ.Ε.Σ. στον Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής Δημήτριο

12/12/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/visit-ltgeneraleconomou-12122014
Ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος δέχθηκε σήμερα την επίσκεψη του υπαρχηγού του Γενικού Επιτελείου Στρατού της Ελλάδος αντιστρατήγου Αλέξανδρου Οικονόμου με τον οποίο συζήτησαν θέματα κοινού ενδιαφέροντος αφορώντα στην επίσκεψη του κ. Οικονόμου στις Η.Π.Α.

Patriarch John X of Antioch Visits Archdiocese

12/10/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/patriarchjohnantiochvisit-12092014
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America welcomed today, Dec. 9, 2014, His Beatitude Patriarch John X of Antioch at the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Dec. 9-20, 2014

12/08/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-12-08-2014

Election of New Bishop

11/29/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/election-koufallakis-11282014
His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, on behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod announces the unanimous election of Archimandrite Apostolos Koufallakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis of...

Visit of Pope Francis to Ecumenical Patriarchate will be broadcast LIVE on EWTN, Nov. 29 and 30

11/27/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/popevisittopatriarchate-ewtn-11262014
The visit of Pope Francis to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople and his meetings with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on November 29 and 30, 2014, will be broadcast live in the United States by EWTN, Global Catholic Network.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Nov. 24 – Dec. 7, 2014

11/24/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-11-24-2014

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.

Pope Francis will visit Ecumenical Patriarchate and meet with His-All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

11/20/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/popevisitspatriarch-11202014
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will welcome Pope Francis to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople on November 29 and 30, 2014. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew extended the invitation to the Pope during His Holiness’ inaugural Mass in March 2013.

Επίσκεψη Υπουργού Ενέργειας και Περιβάλλοντος Γιάννη Μανιάτη και Αρχηγού του ΓΕΣ Αντιστρατήγου Χρήστου Μανωλά

11/06/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/minister-maniatis-visit-11062014
Ο Υπουργός Περιβάλλοντος, Ενέργειας και Κλιματικής Αλλαγής της Ελλάδος, κ. Γιάννης Μανιάτης επισκέφθηκε σήμερα τον Σεβασμιώτατο Αρχιεπίσκοπο Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριο και τον ενημέρωσε για τις επαφές που είχε τις προηγούμενες ημέρες στην Ουάσιγκτον και για το σχεδιασμό της Ελληνικής Κυβερνήσεως επί ενεργειακών θεμάτων. (φωτ. Δημήτρης Πανάγος/GOA)

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.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for November 4-19, 2014

11/04/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-11-04-2014

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.

Συναντήσεις του Αρχιεπισκόπου Δημητρίου με την ανώτατη πολιτική ηγεσία της Κύπρου

10/28/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/cyprusday72014

Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος γιόρτασε τα ονομαστήρια του, διαβεβαίωσε για συνέχιση του αγώνα για τα δίκαια της Κύπρου

10/27/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/cyprusday62014
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Wisdom of the Fathers

Great indeed was the faith of Abraham. . . It was necessary to go beyond human reasoning. . . to manifest also something more.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily XXV on Hebrews XI, 1,2. translation found in The Bible and the Holy Fathers for Orthodox, Monastery Books, St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, Crestwood, NY 2003, p. 955., 4th Century

The tribes of Judah and Levi were united by a fusion of their lines of descent, and that is why Matthew assigns Christ's family to the tribe of Judah. And the Apostle says, 'for our Lord has sprung out of Judah' (Heb. 7:14).
St. Ambrose of Milan
Seven Exegetical Works, 4th Century

Thus, from the tribe of Levi may be counted a heritage that is priestly and filled with holiness, while from the tribe of Judah - to which David and Solomon and the rest of the kings belonged - there shines forth the splendor of a royal descent. And so, by the testimony of the Scriptures, Christ is shown to be at once both king and priest.
St. Ambrose of Milan
Seven Exegetical Works, 4th Century

Pray, my brethren, to the Mother of God when the storm of enmity and malice bursts forth in your house. She, Who is all-merciful and all-powerful, can easily pacify the hearts of men. Peace and love proceed from the one God, as from their Source, and Our Lady - in God, as the Mother of Christ the Peace, is zealous, and prays for the peace of the whole world, and above all - of all Christians.
St. John of Kronstadt
My Life in Christ: Part 1, Holy Trinity Monastery pg. 179, 19th century

Through their prayers for, and alms on behalf of, the deceased, Christians display the relationship between this world and the world to come. The Church in this world and the Church in the other world are one and the same the one Body of Christ one the Church Militant and the other the Church Triumphant. It can be compared to a tree which has roots beneath the earth comprise as well as branches above the earth, but both the roots and the branches comprise one organism. This metaphor also illustrates how we on earth who comprise the Church Militant can receive help from the saints and the righteous ones in the Heavenly Church Triumphant. Saint Athanasios says: 'As it happens with wine inside a barrel which, when the vineyard blooms in the field, senses it and the wine itself blossoms together with it, so it is with the souls of sinners. They receive some relief from the Bloodless Sacrifice offered for them and from charity' performed for their repose. Saint Ephrem the Syrian cites that same example with wine and the vineyard and concludes: 'And so, when there exists such mutual sensitivity even among plants, is not the prayer and sacrifice felt even more for the departed ones?' '[At the Eucharist] the bread itself and the wine are changed into God's body and blood. But if you enquire how this happens, it is enough for you to learn that it was through the Holy Spirit, just as the Lord took on Himself flesh that subsisted in Him and was born of the Holy Mother of God through the Spirit. And we know nothing further save that the Word of God is true and energises and is omnipotent, but the manner of this cannot be searched out. But one can put it well thus, that just as in nature the bread by the eating and the wine by the drinking are changed into the body and blood of the eater and drinker, and do not become a different body from the former one, so the bread of the table and the wine and water are supernaturally changed by the invocation and presence of the Holy Spirit into the body and blood of Christ, and are not two but one and the same.'
St. John of Damascus
An Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, Book 4: Chapter 13; Eerdmans pg. 83, 8th century

The Lord has given us a sign 'as deep as Sheol and as high as heaven', such as we should not have dared to hope for. How could we have expected to see a Virgin with Child, and to see in this Child a 'God with us' (Isaiah 7: 11 & 14) Who would descend into the depths of the earth to seek for the lost sheep, meaning the creature He had fashioned, and then ascend again to present to His Father humanity thus regained?
Irenaeus of Lyons
Against Heresies, III, 19.3 (SC 211, p. 380), 130-208

His love for me brought low His greatness. He made Himself like me so that I might receive Him. He made Himself like me so that I might be clothed in Him. I had no fear when I saw Him, for He is mercy for me. He took my nature so that I might understand Him, my face, so that I should not turn away from Him.
42 hymns discovered in 1905 in a Syriac Manuscript.
Odes of Solomon 7 (The Odes and Psalms of Solomon R. Harris adn A. Mingana II, pp. 240-1). Written in Greek for the Christian communities of Syria., Early 2nd Century

How could the human race go to God if God had not come to us? How should we free ourselves from our birth into death if we had not been born again according to faith by a new birth generously given by God, thanks to that which came about from the Virgin's womb?
Irenaeus of Lyons, Against Heresies, IV, 33,4
Sources Chretiennes, Cerf, Paris found in The Roots of Christian Mysticism by Olivier Clement, p. 37., 130-208

This is the reason why the Word of God was made flesh, and the Son of God became Son of Man: so that we might enter into communion with the Word of God, and by receiving adoption might become Sons of God. Indeed we should not be able to share in immortality without a close union with the Immortal. How could we have united ourselves with immortality if Immortality had not become what we are, in such a way that we should not be absorbed by it, and thus we should be adopted as Sons of God?
Irenaeus of Lyons, Against Heresies, III. 19,1
Sources Chretiennes, Cerf, Paris, as found in The Roots of Christian Mysticism by Olivier Clement, p. 38, 130-208

That God should have clothed Himself with our nature is a fact that should not seem strange or extravagant to minds that do not form too paltry an idea of reality. Who, looking at the universe, would be so feeble-minded as not to believe that God is all in all; that He clothes Himself with the universe, and at the same time contains it and dwells in it? What exists depends on Him Who exists, and nothing can exist except in the bosom of Him Who is. If then all is in Him and He is in all, . . .Indeed, if the presence of God in us does not take the same form now as it did then, we can at least agree in recognizing that He is in us today no less tha He was then. Today, He is involved with us in as much as He maintains creation in existence. Then He mingled Himself with our being to deify it by contact with Him, after He had snatched it from death. . . For His resurrection becomes for mortals the promise of their return to immortal life.
St. Gregory of Nyssa, Catechetical Orations, 25 (Patrologia Graeca, Migne.)
Found in The Roots of Christian Mysticism by Olivier Clement, New City Press, NY, pp. 37-38, 330-395

Most of all we should marvel, that being Son of the Unorginate God, and His true Son, He suffered Himself to be called also Son of David, that He might make you Son of God. A slave became His father so that you a slave, might have the Lord as your Father. . .When therefore you are told that the Son of God is Son of David and of Abraham, do not doubt anymore that you too, the son of Adam, should become a son of God. For it was not randomly, nor in vain, that He did lower Himself so greatly, for He had in mind to exalt us. Thus He was born after the flesh, that you might be born after the Spirit.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 2 on Matthew 1: 1-25, Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, 344/354-407

I too will proclaim the greatness of this day: the Immaterial become incarnate, the Word is made flesh, the invisible makes itself seen, the intangible can be touched, the timeless has a beginning, the Son of God becomes the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, always the same, yesterday, today and forever. . . This is the solemnity we are celebrating today: the arrival of God among us, so that we might go to God, or more precisely, return to Him. . . Revere the nativity which releases you from the chains of evil. Honor this tiny Bethlehem which restores Paradise to you. Venerate this crib; because of it you who were deprived of meaning (logos) are fed by the divine Meaning, the divine Logos Himself.
St. Gregory the Theologian
Oration 38, For Christmas (Patrologia Graeca, 36, 664-5) found in The Roots of Christian Mysticism by Olivier Clement, New City Press, NY, p. 41, 330-390

Lift up your voice, O Zion, holy city of God, Proclaim the divine memory of the Fathers. With Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob Honor one whose memory is eternal: For behold, with Judah and levi we magnify Moses the Great, And with him the wonder-working Aaron. With David we celebrate the memory of Joshua and Samuel, Calling all with divine songs and praise To the prefeast of Christ's Nativity, Praying that we may receive His goodness, For it is He who grants the world great mercy.
Orthros of the Sunday before the Nativity
Translation from "The Winter Pascha" SVS Press

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Saints and Feasts

Petermoscow
December 21

Saint Peter, Metropolitan of Moscow

Our holy and wonderworking Father Peter, Metropolitan of Moscow, was born in Volhynia, tonsured a monk at twelve years of age, and later ordained a priest. He lived in solitude for a time in a desert place north of Lvov and founded the Holy Transfiguration Monastery; afterwards he was sent to Constantinople, where the holy Patriarch Athanasius consecrated him Metropolitan of Kiev in 1308, and he returned to Vladimir, where the Metropolitans of Kiev had their residence at that time (see Saint Jonas on June 15). In 1325, he moved to Moscow, where he founded the Dormition Cathedral, and after his repose in December 21, 1326, was buried there. He was also an iconographer, and two of his icons, the Dormition and the Petrovskaya, are found in the Dormition Cathedral (see also Oct. 5 and Aug. 24).

Eugenia
December 24

Eugenia the Righteous Nun-martyr of Rome

This Martyr was the daughter of most distinguished and noble parents named Philip and Claudia. Philip, a Prefect of Rome, moved to Alexandria with his family. In Alexandria, Eugenia had the occasion to learn the Christian Faith, in particular when she encountered the Epistles of Saint Paul, the reading of which filled her with compunction and showed her clearly the vanity of the world. Secretly taking two of her servants, Protas and Hyacinth, she departed from Alexandria by night. Disguised as a man, she called herself Eugene while pretending to be a eunuch, and departed with her servants and took up the monastic life in a monastery of men. Her parents mourned for her, but could not find her. After Saint Eugenia had laboured for some time in the monastic life, a certain woman named Melanthia, thinking Eugenia to be a monk, conceived lust and constrained Eugenia to comply with her desire; when Eugenia refused, Melanthia slandered Eugenia to the Prefect as having done insult to her honour. Eugenia was brought before the Prefect, her own father Philip, and revealed to him both that she was innocent of the accusations, and that she was his own daughter. Through this, Philip became a Christian; he was afterwards beheaded at Alexandria. Eugenia was taken back to Rome with Protas and Hyacinth. All three of them ended their life in martyrdom in the years of Commodus, who reigned from 180 to 192.

Nativity
December 25

The Nativity of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

The incomprehensible and inexplicable Nativity of Christ came to pass when Herod the Great was reigning in Judea; the latter was an Ascalonite on his fathers's side and an Idumean on his mother's. He was in every way foreign to the royal line of David; rather, he had received his authority from the Roman emperors, and had ruled tyrannically over the Jewish people for some thirty-three years. The tribe of Judah, which had reigned of old, was deprived of its rights and stripped of all rule and authority. Such was the condition of the Jews when the awaited Messiah was born, and truly thus was fulfilled the prophecy which the Patriarch Jacob had spoken 1,807 years before: "A ruler shall not fail from Judah, nor a prince from his loins, until there come the things stored up for him; and he is the expectation of the nations" (Gen.49:10).

Thus, our Saviour was born in Bethlehem, a city of Judea, whither Joseph had come from Nazareth of Galilee, taking Mary his betrothed, who was great with child, that, according to the decree issued in those days by the Emperor Augustus, they might be registered in the census of those subject to Rome. Therefore, when the time came for the Virgin to give birth, and since because of the great multitude there was no place in the inn, the Virgin's circumstace constrained them to enter a cave which was near Bethlehem. Having as shelter a stable of irrational beasts, she gave birth there, and swaddled the Infant and laid Him in the manger (Luke 2:1-7). From this, the tradition has come down to us that when Christ was born He lay between two animals, an ox and an ass, that the words of the Prophets might be fulfilled: "Between two living creatures shalt Thou be known" (Abbacum 3:2), and "The ox knoweth his owner and the ass his master's crib" (Esaias 1: 3).

But while the earth gave the new-born Saviour such a humble reception, Heaven on high celebrated majestically His world-saving coming. A wondrous star, shining with uncommon brightness and following a strange course, led Magi from the East to Bethlehem to worship the new-born King. Certain shepherds who were in the area of Bethlehem, who kept watch while tending their sheep, were suddenly surrounded by an extraordinary light, and they saw before them an Angel who proclaimed to them the good tidings of the Lord's joyous Nativity. And straightway, together with this Angel, they beheld and heard a whole host of the Heavenly Powers praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men" (Luke 2:8-14).

Glykophilousa
December 26

Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos

This Synaxis - which is to say, our coming together to glorify the Theotokos - is celebrated especially in her honour because she gave birth supernaturally to the Son and Word Of God, and thus became the instrument of the salvation of mankind.

Stephen
December 27

Stephen, Archdeacon & First Martyr

Saint Stephen was a Jew, by race, and, as some say, a disciple of Gamaliel, the teacher of the Law mentioned in Acts 5:34 and 22:3. He was the first of the seven deacons whom the Apostles established in Jerusalem to care for the poor, and to distribute alms to them. Being a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, he performed great signs and wonders among the people. While disputing with the Jews concerning Jesus, and wisely refuting their every contradiction, so that no one was able to withstand the wisdom and the spirit whereby he spake, he was slandered as a blasphemer and was dragged off to the Sanhedrin of the elders. There with boldness he proved from the divine Scriptures the coming of the Just One (Jesus), of Whom they had become the betrayers and murderers, and he reproved their faithless and hardheartedness. And finally, gazing into Heaven and beholding the divine glory, he said: "Lo, I see the Heavens opened and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God." But when they heard this, they stopped up their ears, and with anger cast him out of the city and stoned him, while he was calling out and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then, imitating the long-suffering of the Master, he bent his knees and prayed in a loud voice for them that were stoning him, and he said, "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge," And saying this, he fell asleep (Acts 6, 7), thus becoming the first among the Martyrs of the Church of Christ.

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Message from Archbishop Demetrios

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.

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.

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.
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Parish News and Events

 PARISH NEWS AND EVENTS

Note:

This year our Parish of Panagia sent Christmas poinsettias to our two past proistamenoi, Rev. Fr. Demetrios Treantafeles and Rev. Fr. George Massouras, who faithfully served our Community for many years.  Our Sunday Church School also sent a Christmas card to each priest, signed by many children and members of the teaching staff.  Fr. Demetrios called to thank the Parish for their thoughtfulness, and especially wanted to acknowledge the children for remembering both him and Presvytera Rose, and for their Christmas cheer.  Presvytera Despina also called to say thank you, on behalf of Fr. George and herself, for the kindness extended by the Parish during this Christmas season.

Weekday Service:

Wednesday, December 24th
Christmas Eve
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy
5:30 pm – Great Vespers

Thursday, December 25th
Christmas Day
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Friday, December 26th
Synaxis of the Theotokos
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

 Saturday, December 27th
Feast Day of St. Stephen the First Martyr
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Coffee Fellowship:

Today’s Coffee Fellowship is hosted by Rose Marie Stewart.  Please join us in 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 Thought For The Week:

…the Magi represent a sincere desire to seek after God, searching through science, nature, and their cultural traditions to communicate with their Creator and discover His will for them, even when it was something so unexpected.  Imagine their long, arduous journey, possibly a 1500 mile expedition from Persia to Bethlehem, over mountains and deserts, a journey that took many months.

What faith, determination and sacrifice they must have had.  During their journey, unexpected challenges and discouraging setbacks would have been commonplace.  Yet they persevered.  They overcame the difficult trials and tests of their journey, and persisted in their search for God’s truth.

When they finally met the Christ Child, they bowed down in worship.  They offered Jesus the most precious of their gifts.  Although they were the “wise men” of their day, they didn’t allow their ego to interfere with their unexpected discovery.  Everything seemed so astonishing, and yet in humility they approached the Christ Child to worship Him and offer the best of their gifts – gold, frankincense, and myrrh.                                                     ------Borrowed

 2014 Stewardship:

We fast approach the end of the year 2014.  We ask that our stewards who have not as yet completed their pledge commitment for the current year to please do so as soon as possible.  2015 Stewardship pledge packets have been sent to all faithful of this Parish, and we ask that you complete and return your “commitment of love” pledge card in the envelope that was provided as soon as possible.  Your Parish of Panagia is forever grateful for your continued and ongoing support and love to Christ and His Church.

Dates to Remember:

Saturday, December 20th
Ice Skating at Rosemont, IL

Wednesday,December 24th
Christmas Eve
8:30 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy
5:30 pm - Great Vespers

Thursday, December 25th
Christmas Day
8:30 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

 Friday, December 26th
Synaxis of the Theotokos
8:30 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

 Saturday, December 27th
Feast of St. Stephen the First Martyr
8:30 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Thursday, January 1, 2015
New Year’s Day – Feast Day of St. Basil
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

 Monday, January 5, 2015
Eve of Epiphany
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Monday, January 5, 2015
7:00 pm – Adult Bible Study in St. Catherine’s Meeting Room

 Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Feast of Holy Epiphany
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Feast Day of St. John the Baptist
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Thursday, January 8, 2015
7:30 pm – Book Club Meeting at the Pan Arcadian Bldg. in Elmhurst, IL

Saturday, January 10, 2015
Dive For The Cross
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Oak Brook Park District

Sunday, January 11, 2015
Annual Parish and Metropolis Vasilopita

Wednesday, January 14, 2015
SCS Staff Meeting in St. Catherine’s Meeting Room

Friday, January 16, 2015
7:30 pm – Jr. GOYA meeting at the Oak Brook Park District

 Saturday, January 17, 2015
Feast Day of St. Antonios
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Sunday, January 18, 2015
Annual Stewardship Brunch in Plato Hall following the Divine Liturgy

Monday, January 19, 2015
7:00 pm – Adult Bible Study in St. Catherine’s Meeting Room

Friday, January 23, 2015
7:30 pm – GOYA meeting at the Oak Brook Park District

Friday, January 30, 2015
Feast Day of the Three Hierarchs
8:30 am – Orthros
9:30 am – Divine Liturgy

Friday, January 30, 2015
7:30 pm – JOY Meeting at the River Forest Community Center

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.

Christmas Offering Appeal:

The Annual Appeal for Christmas where our faithful and supporters are able to make their prayerful gift to our Panagia Parish and our Lord’s Ministries have been mailed this past week to all stewards.  We ask that you please consider and remember your Spiritual Home with your gift of love.

Outing to the Art Institute of Chicago, January 18, 2015:

 On January 18, 2015, the Assumption Church will sponsor an outing to the Art Institute of Chicago to view Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium.  The exhibit consists of 63 pieces of Byzantine art and iconography--most of which have previously never left Greece.  Sponsored by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and the Benaki Museum in Athens, the exhibit previously visited the National Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C.) and the Getty Museum (Los Angeles).

A chartered bus will leave the Assumption Church immediately after the Divine Liturgy and will return to the Church at 4.00 PM. A private guided tour by the professional staff of the Art Institute will be provided.

The cost per person is:  Students greater than 13 years old--$20; Adults--$30.00; Seniors greater than 65 years old--$24.  Seating is limited.  Please call the Church Office at 773-626-3114 for reservations.

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 #1-30 Completed – Please visit our website or our bulletin board to see who benefited from these Acts of Kindness

Act of Kindness #31 – We will be collecting lovingly and gently, used Icons to pack and mail to OCMC. Collection will take place 11/2- 1/18. Boxes are in the St. Catherine’s Narthex.

Act of Kindness #32 – SCS Students will be creating get well cards for patients that our Parish Priests visit.

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. *Do you have a suggestion for an Act of Kindness or have an organization that you would like to see benefit? Please let Mrs. Christina Arvanites know.

Next Orthodox Adult Bible Study, Monday, January 5, 2015:

Our Adult Bible Study will meet on Monday evening, January 5, 2015, 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, January 8, 2015 at the Pan Arcadian House, 880 North York Road, Elmhurst, IL.  The discussion will center on the Everyday Saints.  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.

 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 2015?  You might want to celebrate a family event, a memorial, or just want to share time with the Church family.  Please call the Church Office (773.626.3114) to book a date and for more information.  Available dates for the first half of 2015 are:

Jan. 4          Feb. 15        March 15     April 26        May 24        June 28

Jan. 18        Feb. 22        March 22     May 3           May 31        July 5

Jan. 25        March 1       March 29     May 10        June 14       July 12

Feb.1           March 8       April 19        May 17        June 21       July 19

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 Update:

The Parish Council announces that effectively immediately, prices for graves at Elmwood Cemetery will be the following:  $1,995.00 (members), and $2,295.00 (non-members).  Our Parish has only forty-six (46) graves remaining in the Panagia section, and the Church pricing is about 50% less than the graves that are being sold at Elmwood.  For more 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:

Dean Bastounes, Nick Mansour, JoAnn Stavropoulos, Bill J. Vranas

 

 

 

 

 

 

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