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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2018-11-04
Bulletin Contents
Hymns of the Day
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Wisdom of the Fathers
Saints and Feasts
Parish News and Events
Flyers
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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. Dimitrios Burikas


frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org | 773-626-3114

Services Schedule

Sunday -MAIN CHURCH
8:30 am - Orthros
10:00 am - Divine Liturgy
Sunday Summer Hours - MAIN CHURCH
8:00 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy
Sunday Church School 
 9:45 am - Divine Liturgy

Weekday Services
8:30 am - Orthros
9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

 

The Mission of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

Is to lead the faithful into the Kingdom of God by:

Proclaiming and teaching the Gospel in accordance with the Orthodox Faith;

Sanctifying the faithful through God’s grace in worship, the Divine Liturgy and the sacraments;

Enhancing the spiritual life of the faithful;

Adding to the numbers of the faithful by receiving persons into the church through instruction, baptism and/or chrismation.

Past Bulletins


Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal Second Mode

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

Apolytikion for Joannicius the Great in the Plagal Fourth Mode

With the streams of thy tears, thou didst cultivate the barrenness of the desert; and by thy sighings from the depths,thou didst bear fruit a hundredfold in labours; and thou becamest a luminary, shining with miracles upon the world, O Joannicius our righteous Father. Intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved.

Apolytikion of Great Martyr Catherine in the Plagal of the First Tone

Let us praise the most auspicious bride of Christ, the divine Katherine, 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.

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.
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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

5th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians 2:4-10

Brethren, God who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with him, and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God: not because of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Gospel Reading

5th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 16:19-31

The Lord said, "There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazaros, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazaros in his bosom. And he called out, 'Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazaros to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.' But Abraham said, 'Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazaros in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.' And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.' But Abraham said, 'They have Moses, and the prophets; let them hear them.' And he said, 'No, father Abraham; but if some one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' He said to them, 'If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead.'"

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Wisdom of the Fathers

The man who has once chosen pleasure in this life, and has not cured his inconsiderateness by repentance, places the land of the good beyond his own reach; for he has dug against himself the yawning impassable abyss of a necessity that nothing can break through.
St. Gregory of Nyssa

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Saints and Feasts

18_lukewriting
November 04

5th Sunday of Luke

Allsaint
November 04

Joannicius the Great

Saint Joannicius was born in Bithynia about the year 740. His father was named Myritrikes and his mother Anastaso When he had reached maturity, he excelled in soldiery and was counted worthy of royal honours for his bravery. He had been brought up an iconoclast, but while yet a soldier, he was converted to Orthodoxy by a certain holy elder. He later forsook all things and departed for Mount Olympus, where he spent the remainder of his life in asceticism. Becoming great in virtue, he reposed in the Lord in the year 834, having lived some ninety-four years. To this Saint is ascribed the brief prayer, "My hope is the Father . . . ."

Allsaint
November 04

The Holy Hieromartyrs Nicander, Bishop of Myra, and Hermias the Presbyter

The holy Martyrs Nikandros and Hermias were ordained by the holy Apostle Titus. When they had drawn many to the Faith of Christ, they were accused to Libanius, the Count of the city of Myra, where, after suffering many torments, they were enclosed in a tomb alive, and thus surrendered their spirits into the hands of God.

Archangl
November 08

Synaxis of the Archangel Michael & the other Bodiless Powers: Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Salaphiel, Jegudiel, & Barachiel

All the Angels, according to the Apostle Paul, are ministering spirits, - sent forth to minister to them who shall be heirs of salvation - (Heb. 1:14). God set them as overseers of every nation and people, and guides to that which is profitable (Deut. 32:8); and while one Angel is appointed to oversee each nation as a whole, one is also appointed to protect each Christian individually. He commands them to guard them that hope on Him, that nothing should harm them, neither should any evil draw nigh to their dwelling (Ps. 90:10-12). In the Heavens they always behold the face of God, sending up to Him the thrice-holy hymn and interceding with Him in our behalf, seeing they rejoice over one sinner that repents (Esaias 6:2-3; Matt. 18:10; Luke 15:7). In a word, they have served God in so many ways for our benefit, that the pages of Holy Scripture are filled with the histories thereof. It is for these reasons that the Orthodox Catholic Church, wisely honouring these divine ministers, our protectors and guardians, celebrates today the present Synaxis that is, our coming together in assembly for their common feast to chant their praises, especially for the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, who are mentioned in the Scriptures by name. The name Michael means "Who is like God?" and Gabriel means "God is mighty." The number of Angels is not defined in the divine Scriptures, where Daniel says that thousands of thousands ministered before Him, and ten thousands of ten thousands attended upon Him -(Dan. 7:10). But all of them are divided into nine orders which are called Thrones, Cherubim, Seraphim, Dominions, Powers, Authorities, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels.

Nektario
November 09

Nektarius the Wonderworker, Metropolitan of Pentapolis

Saint Nektarius was born in Selyvria of Thrace on October 1, 1846. After putting himself through school in Constantinople with much hard labour, he became a monk on Chios in 1876, receiving the monastic name of Lazarus; because of his virtue, a year later he was ordained deacon, receiving the new name of Nektarius. Under the patronage of Patriarch Sophronius of Alexandria, Nektarius went to Athens to study in 1882; completing his theological studies in 1885, he went to Alexandria, where Patriarch Sophronius ordained him priest on March 23, 1886 in the Cathedral of Saint Sabbas, and in August of the same year, in the Church of Saint Nicholas in Cairo, made him Archimandrite. Archimandrite Nektarius showed much zeal both for preaching the word of God, and for the beauty of God's house. He greatly beautified the Church of Saint Nicholas in Cairo, and years later, when Nektarius was in Athens, Saint Nicholas appeared to him in a dream, embracing him and telling him he was going to exalt him very high.

On January 15, 1889, in the same Church of Saint Nicholas, Nektarius was consecrated Metropolitan of the Pentapolis in eastern Libya, which was under the jurisdiction of Alexandria. Although Nektarius' swift ascent through the degrees of ecclesiastical office did not affect his modesty and childlike innocence, it aroused the envy of lesser men, who convinced the elderly Sophronius that Nektarius had it in his heart to become Patriarch. Since the people loved Nektarius, the Patriarch was troubled by the slanders. On May 3, 1890, Sophronius relieved Metropolitan Nektarius of his duties; in July of the same year, he commanded Nektarius to leave Egypt.

Without seeking to avenge or even to defend himself, the innocent Metropolitan left for Athens, where he found that accusations of immorality had arrived before him. Because his good name had been soiled, he was unable to find a position worthy of a bishop, and in February of 1891 accepted the position of provincial preacher in Euboia; then, in 1894, he was appointed dean of the Rizarios Ecclesiastical School in Athens. Through his eloquent sermons his unwearying labours to educate fitting men for the priesthood, his generous alms deeds despite his own poverty, and the holiness, meekness, and fatherly love that were manifest in him, he became a shining light and a spiritual guide to many. At the request of certain pious women, in 1904 he began the building of his convent of the Holy Trinity on the island of Aegina while yet dean of the Rizarios School; finding later that his presence there was needed, he took up his residence on Aegina in 1908, where he spent the last years of his life, devoting himself to the direction of his convent and to very intense prayer; he was sometimes seen lifted above the ground while rapt in prayer. He became the protector of all Aegina, through his prayers delivering the island from drought, healing the sick, and casting out demons. Here also he endured wicked slanders with singular patience, forgiving his false accusers and not seeking to avenge himself. Although he had already worked wonders in life, an innumerable multitude of miracles have been wrought after his repose in 1920 through his holy relics, which for many years remained incorrupt. There is hardly a malady that has not been cured through his prayers; but Saint Nektarius is especially renowned for his healings of cancer for sufferers in all parts of the world.

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Parish News and Events

Memorials

In memory of past members of the Assumption Philoptochos Society

Artoklasia and Coffee Fellowship

Today's Artoklasia and Coffee Fellowship is being hosted by the Assumption Ladies' Philoptochos in honor of their patron saints, Sts. Cosmas and Damianos the Unmercenaries, whose feast day is November 1st. 

Dates to Remember

Sunday, November 4th
Parish General Assembly and Ministry Fair - 12pm
Plato Hall
 
Thursday, November 8
Feast of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel
8:30 am Orthros
9:30 am Divine Liturgy
 
Benefit Dinner and Raffle - 6pm
Jim and Pete's Restaurant
Elmwood Park, IL
 
Thursday, November 9
Feast of St. Nektarios the Wonderworker
8:30 am Orthros
9:30 am Divine Liturgy
 
Friday, November 10th
Family Bowling Outing - 7pm
Stardust Bowling
Addison, IL
 
Philoptochos

Today, the Philoptochos Society honors their Patron Saints Cosmas and Damianos by offering the Artoclasia service for the prayers and wellbeing of Philoptochos members and a memorial service remembering the Philoptochos members who have fallen asleep.  Following the Divine Liturgy, we invite you to join us in Plato Hall for the Coffee Fellowship and 2019 Philoptochos Membership Kick-off.

Also, we begin the collection of clean, gently used coats for the 3rd Annual ONE WARM COAT drive, running through Sunday, March 3, 2019.  Please place your donations of clean, gently used coats, particularly children’s coats, in the designated box located the narthex of St. Catherine’s Chapel.  Thanks to your generosity, last year, we donated 285 coats.  If you have any questions or wish to make a monetary donation, please contact Jette Georgopoulos at 708.439.6041. 

ONE WARM COAT is a national non-profit organization that works to provide a free, warm coat to any person in need.  Coats are distributed to children and adults in the communities where they were collected, without charge, discrimination or obligation.  Since its inception in 1992, volunteer organizations have hosted more than 27,000 ONE WARM COAT drives and more than 5 million coats have been given away. 

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the next General Meeting of the Philoptochos Society is scheduled one week earlier than usual, on Thursday, November 15th, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Catherine’s meeting room.  The meeting will follow the Divine Liturgy marking the beginning of the Christmas Fast.  Please also attend the Divine Liturgy.

General Assembly TODAY
Today, our parish will be holding its Fall General Assembly for this year at 12pm in Plato Hall. All those who are pledged stewards for 2018 are eligible to attend and participate in shaping the future of Panagia. 
 
Ministry Fair TODAY
There will be a Ministry Fair today in Plato Hall immediatel following the Divine Liturgy to showcase our community's many ministries. These ministries have blessed us with opportunities to serve our Lord. For example, our children learn about our faith by celebrating Liturgy, serving as altar boys and choir members, attending Sunday Church School, as well as growing in friendships through GOYA, Junior GOYA, JOY and HOPE. Adults in our community grow in faith not only by our many worship services but also by our adult education classes, Bible Study and lecture nights. All ages grow in faith and fellowship by enjoying our community events, participating in outreach and missions, and catching up with new and old friends at coffee hour.  Please visit the Ministry Fair today and learn about how our Panagia family is serving our Lord through our many ministries. 
 
Family Bowling Outing November 9th
For the November Youth gathering, our youth advisory team has planned a family bowling night! On Friday, November 9th, we will be gathering at Stardust Lanes (37 E. Lorraine, Addison) at 7pm for a night of bowling and fellowship. All are invited! Please contact Alayna Vlagos at amweigand@yahoo.com to RSVP by November 7th. 
 
Stewardship Sunday November 11th
The Parish Council has designated Sunday, November 11th as ‘Stewardship Sunday’.  This past week, 2019 stewardship packets were mailed to all faithful (stewards) of this Parish.  We ask that you please prayerfully consider your pledge commitment for 2019, complete the pledge card and commitment card that are included in the packet, and bring it to church on November 11th.  Following the Divine Liturgy on that day, you will have the opportunity to deposit both completed 2019 commitment cards (in the envelope provided) and place them into the tray/basket that one of the Parish Council members will be holding as you exit the Church.  We are forever grateful to the many loving stewards, supporters, and friends of this Parish who stand tall in their commitment to our Lord, the Blessed Panagia and this ministry.
 
Assumption Family Retreat November 17th
The Assumption Family Retreat will be taking place on Saturday, November 17th at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center (920 224th Ave., Kansasville, WI). This all-day retreat will give our families an opportunity to grow closer to God, bond with each other, enjoy fellowship with their fellow Orthodox families, and deepen their faith. The theme of the retreat is: "Why Church? Making the life of the Church relevant for our families". There is no cost to attend the retreat, and all three meals will be provided. If you would like to register, there is an online registration at tinyurl.com/GORetreat. There are also hard copies of the registration packet available at church. Please feel free to contact Fr. Dimitri at frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org with any questions or concerns.
 
IOCC Sunday November 18th
On Sunday, November 18th, our parish will be showcasing International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC).  "IOCC, in the spirit of Christ's love, offers emergency relief and development programs to those in need worldwide, without discrimination, and strengthens the capacity of the Orthodox Church to so respond" (IOCC Mission Statement). Our goal is to raise awareness and generate support for this worthy organization and ministry of our Holy Orthodox Church.
 
Austin Community Thanksgiving Day Luncheon at Assumption
For the second consecutive year, Assumption Church will open our doors on Thanksgiving Day to welcome any and all who have need — for a meal, for warmth, for conversation, and for community. Our Thanksgiving Day meal will be served from 11:30am-2:30pm. Volunteers are needed to setup, prepare food, serve and socialize with our guests. Volunteers can come as early as 8:30 am to help for however long their schedule permits. Food donations are welcomed and we will once again be offering meal deliveries to our shut-ins. For more information or to volunteer, please email outreach@assumptionchicago.org or contact our church office at 773-626-3114.

Parish Council Elections Set For Sunday, December 2nd

Please be advised that on Sunday, December 2nd, our Parish will hold Parish Council elections for the 2019-20 term.  You are asked to please give serious consideration to offer your time, talent and service to God and His Church.  We are in need of new faces, stewards who want to work and offer service to our blessed Parish of Panagia.  Below, you will find the guidelines for placing your name for consideration on the Parish Council along with a form to place your name into nomination.  Deadline for submission is Monday, November 12th.  Please return the form to either Fr. Timothy or to the Church Office in a sealed envelope.

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APPLICATION FOR NOMINATION FOR THE PARISH COUNCIL

                      ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

 Qualifications to be a Candidate for the Parish Council:

 1.  Must be spiritually, canonically and financially in good standing:

      a. SPIRITUALLY: Attend Divine Services regularly and receive the Holy Sacraments;

          uphold the teachings and traditions of the Church.

      b. CANONICALLY: If married, married in the Orthodox Church.  If divorced, have an

          ecclesiastical divorce. Must live his/her life and activities in accordance with the Faith and

          Canons of the Holy Orthodox Church.

       c. FINANCIALLY: Must be a member of the Parish for at least one year immediately

           preceding the date of elections.

  2.   Must be willing to take the following oath:

 “I do solemnly swear that I will uphold the dogma, teachings, traditions, holy canons, worship, and moral principles of the Greek Orthodox Church, as well as the constitutional charter, discipline, and regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and that I will fulfill faithfully and sincerely the duties and obligations required of a member of the Parish Council.  So help me God.”

 3.   Must attend a mandatory Seminar conducted by the Parish priest in accordance with the

 UPR, Article VIII,  Section 3:

 All candidates shall attend a seminar conducted by the priest prior to the election at which the priest shall discuss the Uniform Parish Regulations and explain them to the candidates, particularly the oath of office. At the conclusion of the seminar all candidates will acknowledge by signing a statement that they understand the Uniform Parish Regulations and, if elected, will abide by them and the oath of office. If a candidate for the Parish Council refuses to attend the seminar and sign the declaration, his or her name shall be deleted from the list of candidates.

 Additional Responsibilities:

 1. To participate in the sacramental life of the Church setting an example for the parish.  This means frequent AND regular attendance at worship services.

 2. to collect the revenue of the Church and to administer the affairs of the parish in such a manner to aid the Priest in the fulfillment of its aims and purposes

 3. After appropriate discussion, to support and cooperate “fully” with all majority decisions of the Parish Council.

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 PARISH COUNCIL APPLICATION

I wish to place my name in nomination for election to the Parish Council of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.  As required by the Uniform Parish Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.  I hereby declare that I have been a member in good standing for at least one year prior to the date of elections, and I understand the duties and responsibilities which are expected of the members of the Parish Council.

Please print:

Name___________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________

City____________________State____________Zipcode__________

 

Signature of Applicant_____________________________________

Please return this application to:

THE BOARD OF ELECTIONS Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

601 S. Central Avenue / Chicago, Illinois 60644

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RETURNED BY MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21st

ELECTIONS WILL TAKE PLACE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE DIVINE LITURGY IN PLATO HALL UNTIL 1:00 PM, ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4TH

Adult Education Program

Fr. Dimitri will be conducting monthly religious education lectures for adults on the following dates after the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy in St. Catherine's Chapel. This year's theme is "Send down your Holy Spirit: The Sacraments of the Orthodox Church". The tentative dates for the lectures are:

November 18th - December 9th - January 27th - February 17th - March 10th - April 7th - May 5th

Young Adult League

The Assumption Church is revitalizing their Young Adult ministries. In order to do so, we are asking young adults (ages 18-27 who are out of high school) and families with young adults to contact the church to provide contact information. All we need is a name, phone number, and email address to create a young adult database for our parish. Please email contact info to frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org. Our hope is to periodically organize social events for the young adults and support the Metropolis of Chicago YAL events and programs.

Food Drive

Our Parish will again collect non-perishable food items that will be part of food baskets for those families in need this Christmas Season.  Beginning today, and through December 2nd, we ask that you please bring your items and leave them in the Narthex of the main Church or in Saint Catherine's Chapel Narthex. Also, if you prefer to make a monetary donation towards perishable items that will be included in the food baskets, you may do so as well (please make your check payable to Assumption Church, indicating it for the Christmas Food Drive).  We ask that you please be part of this effort and contribute what you can.  The SCS high school students will help with the packing. 

Toy Drive

It's that wonderful time of year!! Our neighbor, Loretto Hospital has once again reached out to us for assistance in collecting toys for their Annual Visit with Santa/Toy Drive. Please see attached flyer for more information.
For those that are not familiar with Visit with Santa: For the last 28 years Loretto Hospital has hosted a Visit with Santa at the Columbus Park Refectory for children of the Austin area to visit with Santa and be given a gift that has been graciously donated by local area organizations. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, December 8th. Our parish as well as other local area businesses has stepped forward to assist by collecting gifts that will be given to these children. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

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 website 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 as we now broadcast live each Sunday.  Just access it by going to our website at:  www.assumptionchicago.org.

Also, our parish is starting a database of all college students in the community. If you have a college student in your family or if you are a college student, please send your name, school, area of study, address, and email address to Fr. Dimitri at frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org.

Coffee Fellowship Hosts Needed

Have you considered selecting a day to host the Weekly Fellowship Hour following Worship Services on a specific Sunday in 2018?  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 2018 Year:            

December   9, 23, 30 

January   6, 13, 20, 27

We are in the Loop!

Through a generous donation by Mr. and Mrs. Chris Maniates in memory of Mrs. Helen Maniates, we are delighted to announce that we are now part of a growing number of places with a hearing loop. If you need assistance, please see one of the Parish Council Ushers for assistance.

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 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, 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 with the many others who are offering a prayer for the person who is ill, will bring comfort beyond comprehension.

Just think about that….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.

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 Fr. Dimitrios.  With the help of each steward/member, we come together as a Church family to better offer our thanks to our Lord.

Bookstore

Do you need gifts for your family or relatives?  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!

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).

Website News

In addition our Parish’s website, we encourage you to keep abreast on the latest news and happenings about Orthodoxy from our Metropolis of Chicago and our Holy Archdiocese.

Please use the links below to access any of the three sites:

Assumption Church:               www.assumptionchicago.org
Metropolis of Chicago:            www.metropolisofchicago.org
Archdiocese of America          www.goarch.org

All three websites will provide you with articles and resources for the Orthodox Church.  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, the Orthodox calendar, and much more.  Specifically, on our Parish’s website, we have uploaded past and current editions of the Assumption Newsletter and the St. Catherine Newsletter, which are available for reading online.

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.

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

A reminder to all, 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.

NOTE:  Please note that this morning’s Divine Liturgy, as well as prior Divine Liturgies, are available for rebroadcast.  Simply log on to our parish’s website (www.assumptionchicago.org) and click on the “Watch Worship Services Online” link.

 Ushers: Ted Pappas, Christina Arvanites, Tom Collis, James Lakerdas

 

PROPER CHURCH ETIOUETTE FOR WORSHIP

ENTERING THE CHURCH
When entering an Orthodox Church, reverently make the sign ofthe Cross. First, light your candle. Candles represent the light of Christ and the flame of the Holy Spirit. Candle-stands are in the narthex. You may then venerate the icons before you.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PUNCTUALITY
The Orthodox Divine Liturgy begins when the priest intones, "Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit". We need to arrive early enough to receive this blessing. Arriving later causes a distraction for others who are praying. If an occasional problem occurs and you have to come in late, enter the Church reverently and quietly. Try not to interrupt the Liturgy by your entrance. The best way to avoid this situation is to arrive on time.

STANDING IN CHURCH
It is the custom of some Orthodox Christians to stand throughout the Divine Liturgy. If you choose to stand, please do so near the sides so that the view of the Altar is not blocked for those who are seated. If you are accustomed to sitting during the Divine Liturgy, remember to stand at these times:
When the Liturgy begins and the priest gives the blessing
During the Small and Great Entrances

  • When the priest turns and faces the congregation, giving his blessing
  • When the priest is censing the icons and congregation
  • During the Gospel reading
  • At the Anaphora
  • For Holy Communion
  • At the final blessing

RECITATION OF NICENE CREED AND LORD 'S PRA YER
We must remember that when the Orthodox Divine Liturgy is celebrated, it is 'interactive '. That means we are not merely spectators but participants. The Nicene Creed is the foundation and principle tenets of our Orthodox Faith. Therefore, we should recite it together, loudly and with conviction, as it defines us as 'believers' and 'Orthodox Christians'. Likewise, the Lord's Prayer is to be recited loudly and boldly. It is the one prayer that Jesus Christ authored and recited when preaching here on earth.

HOLY COMMUNION
Orthodox Christians are invited to approach and receive Holy Communion if they are properly prepared and ecclesiastically in order with the Church. The Church school students and their teachers should approach first. Once the children have communed, all others who are prepared to do so may then approach the Holy Chalice. Please come as close to the Chalice as possible to avoid accidents. The red cloth held by the priest and the altar servers is there to prevent any particles ofthe giftsfromfalling onto thefloor.

CHILDREN
If a baby or toddler needs a snack, please clear away any leftover pieces. However, the child should not have anything in his/her mouth when he/she comes to Holy Communion. It is not acceptable at any time to chew gum in Church (at any age). Plan to have your children use the restroom and get a drink before Liturgy begins, and don't allow them to come and go continually

RESPECTFUL BEHAVIORS
Remember that you are in Church to worship God, the Holy Trinity. The priest says, "With the fear of God, faith, and love draw near". Let this be the way you approach your worship:

  • Refrain from socializing during the Divine Liturgy: save your greetings and conversations for the fellowship hall. We are in the Liturgy to pray and worship God, not to distract others. This especially applies to the Narthex where parishioners and Parish Council members gather.
  • Mobile devices: The use of mobile phones is never proper during the Liturgy. If you have a professional reason to carry one for emergencies, keep it on mute or vibrate, and sit near the exit so that leaving for an emergency will not be a distraction to others. Otherwise, turn off your phone before entering the sanctuary.
  • Lipstick: Do not wear lipstick when approaching to take Holy Communion or when kissing the cross, an icon, the priest's or bishop's hand, or any sacred object. It is best not to wear it at all in the Church.
  • Leg crossing: One should not be too casual in the Divine Liturgy. In our North American culture, we tend to cross our legs to get comfortable when sitting. Crossing one's legs in Church is not permitted, not because it is "wrong", but rather because it is too casual and relaxed för being in Church. Keeping your feet on the ground also enables you to remain attentive and to stand when necessary. 
  • Church Dress: Respectful attire is also an important part of attending Orthodox services. You do not need to be dressed "fancy" but respectfully and modestly to present yourself to God. No shorts, short skirts, or revealing clothing please. Men and boys must remove their hats when entering the Church.

HANDLING THE HOLY BREAD (ANTIDORON)
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, it is customary to receive a piece of holy bread or antidoron. While antidoron is not Holy Communion, it is blessed bread and as such should be eaten carefully so that crumbs do not fall. Both adults and children should always remember to eat the antidoron with respect. Leaving Church without receiving antidoron and the final blessing from the priest is foreign to our Orthodox culture. This includes the chanters, choir, parish council members, and ushers as well.

LEAVING BEFORE DISMISSAL
Leaving Church before dismissal deprives us of a blessing. Worship has a beginning ("Blessed is the Kingdom... ") and an end ("Let us depart inpeace... 'Y). To leave immediately after Communion is to freat the Church with disrespect.

NOTE: Worship services are vital instruments and components to our prayer development. In order to do this, we need to be cognizant of our fellow parishioners and all those around us. For those parents with children, we encourage you to expose them to the worship experience. If a child is 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

 

 

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