November 8, 2014

Reverend Clergy and the Faithful of the Holy and God-protected Metropolis of Atlanta

My Beloved Ones,

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

[1 John 3:18]

It is my honor and privilege to welcome you to the Annual Archangel Michael Feast and Honors. As you all know, this event has become a beloved tradition of our Metropolis of Atlanta family, celebrating the Feast of our Patron Saint and Protector, Archangel Michael. The name Michael means “who is like God”, so with this celebration, we honor two stewards from each parish, whose lives exemplify the fundamental nature of our Orthodox Christian journey to Theosis, with the loving spirit and generous commitment of a Christ-centered life.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, if we could see clearly with the eyes of faith, we would see that we are surrounded by angels, for both angels and men were created by God to participate in the divine life. We should strive to emulate the angels, imitating their holiness, and their love and devotion to God, for in this way we carry out the work of our Lord. By honoring these individuals tonight, we are also celebrating and giving thanks for all the devout, faithful people in our Metropolis family, who unselfishly offer their time, talents, energy and resources as they “first give themselves to the Lord by the will of God.”

Each year, I am deeply and personally moved and inspired by the wonderful zeal and enthusiasm demonstrated on this special occasion. Out of love and in commemoration of Archangel Michael, this event is a joyful witness to the reality of God’s Love and Grace in our Parish communities throughout our Holy Metropolis of Atlanta. Therefore, it gives me great joy to share this special occasion with you and to bestow my Hierarchical blessings and prayers on the past and present honorees. It is both my pleasure and my privilege to congratulate the 2014 honorees, on behalf of our entire Metropolis family.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the organizers of this beautiful event, the Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. George Tsahakis, the Metropolis staff, as well as all the many friends of the Metropolis, for the unselfish gift of their time, energy and resources. Through their hard work, dedication and commitment, they make this event a success.

May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Love of God the Father and the Communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. I remain

With paternal blessings and with much love in Christ,

+ALEXIOS

Metropolitan of Atlanta 

Chapter Membership Growth & Participation - 100 to 199 Mbrs 

1st Place

Saint Mark 5060

Boca Raton, FL

Increased Membership 32%

Most Impressive Internet Newsletter - Chapter 

1st Place Runner-up

Saint Nektarios

Charlotte, NC

Most Impressive Internet Newsletter - Metropolis

1st Place

Metropolis of Atlanta 

Most Innovative Enviro-Project

1st Place 

Holy Trinity Cathedral 5054

New Orleans, LA

Plastic Mats for Homeless

Most Innovative Website Communiqué  - Chapter 

1st Place Runner-up

Holy Trinity 5026

Raleigh, NC

Most Innovative Website Communiqué  - Metropolis

1st Place

Metropolis of Atlanta

Most Outstanding Outreach Project

1st Place

Ss Markella & Demetrios 5014

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Children in Crisis Birthday Bash

1st Place

Saint Katherine 5058

Melbourne, FL

M.O.M. & W.O.W. Event

.

Most Outstanding Youth Project

1st Place Runner-up

Holy Trinity Cathedral 5054

New Orleans, LA

Saving Our Ecclesiastical Artifacts

Most Successful Fundraiser Project

1st Place Runner-up

Saint Mark 5060

Boca Raton, FL

Men's Culinary Delights

October 24, 2014

Reverend Clergy and the Faithful of the Holy and God-protected Metropolis of Atlanta

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

“Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go…” Genesis 28:15

I greet you with love and joy in the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as we have begun a new Ecclesiastical Year, with prayers for a healthy, happy and peaceful year, filled with God’s blessings. With all the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the coming year, it is a good time for us to take stock both of where we are and where we wish to be. It is equally important to reflect on how we live our lives as followers of Christ.

As you may recall from my previous letter, a dedicated team, clergy and laity, from throughout our Metropolis and Archdiocese has been diligently working to create a comprehensive Strategic Plan. This Strategic Plan will provide us with a vision, assistance and resources to our parish communities. We have reached a critical stage in this historic work and we want your invaluable input. We are creating a bold, new and bright future for our Metropolis of Atlanta and I need your assistance.

 That is why I am personally inviting you to a very special and unique gathering, “New Metropolis Strategic Plan Presentation and Open Forum Q&A” on Saturday November 8th from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm in Carlos Hall at the Annunciation Cathedral in Atlanta.  Our hard-working Strategic Planning team will present our new proposed Vision, Mission, Statement of Why, Core Values, 11 Strategic Areas of focus and 37 very specific Strategic Goals. After this presentation, you will have the opportunity to provide feedback and suggestions so that we can build a consensus for our bright new future.

We welcome you to bring your family or friends for this event, including anyone joining us for the Archangel Michael Honors events. The more different perspectives and input we have, the better our future will be. It is not often that we have the opportunity to gather together as a family of faith to discuss a new and dynamic direction for our Metropolis. With this important endeavor, we will be able to decide what we want to do and where we want to be over the next 3 to 5 years and beyond in our Metropolis.

Please make every effort to attend this important meeting. We have reserved a place for you and your participation is vital. I look forward to seeing you and welcoming you on November 8th. 

May the Lord lead the way as we begin our journey to a beautiful future! Constantly remembering you in prayer with love and joy, and asking for your prayers in return, I remain,

With paternal blessings and with much love in our Lord,

+ALEXIOS

Metropolitan of Atlanta

November 11 is when we take the time to remember and honor our veterans. On this day we express our gratitude and appreciation to our military men and women who have served our country in time of war and as guardians in time of peace. Their devotion to country is an incredible gift, freely offered. In gratitude for this great gift, we ask God to bless those who have sacrificed more than we will ever know: career, family life, health and in some cases, their lives.

Veterans Day is our opportunity to say “thank you” to the dedicated and courageous men and women who have served our country in the past and who are serving in the present, especially those who have been injured or traumatized by war.

Of course, these sacrifices are impossible to repay. But we can honor those who offer service to our country with all our hearts. On this Veterans Day 2014, let us be grateful and let our gratitude inspire us to generosity and commitment to our nation, especially those who have protected us through the years.

“If you perform righteousness, then the day becomes good to you; if you perform sin, then it will be evil and full of retribution. If you contemplate these things, and are so disposed, you will consider the whole year favorable, performing prayers and charity every day...” St. John Chrysostom

Happy New Year! On September 1, we begin the new Ecclesiastical Year, for unlike the secular world, the Church follows a different calendar, the pattern of nature and natural life. In the ancient world, after the harvest was gathered and stored, the people would prepare themselves for the beginning of a new cycle, a new year. Although we no longer follow an agricultural calendar, for many of us, this is the beginning of the academic year as well, and a time to initiate our ministries and programs once more in our parishes, after summer vacations.  We enter a new year, filled with new decisions, new joys, new challenges, and new opportunities.

This new Ecclesiastical Year belongs to God, Who in in His infinite grace and wisdom has graciously given us the gift of time to seek Him.  Thus the new Ecclesiastical Year gives us a wonderful opportunity to examine our personal and spiritual lives, with honesty and sincerity. Sometimes we may despair, as we look back over the previous year, and realize that we have made very little progress. The same habitual sins and problems may beset us from year to year.

The message of the new year is that “with God all things are possible.’ We can resolve that this year will be different, better than last year. We can resolve to leave behind bad habits or excuses, commit ourselves to spiritual growth and resolve to immerse ourselves more fully in the life of the Church, availing ourselves of its resources: worship, prayer, fasting, charity, the Holy Scriptures, and the Lives of the Saints. As St. Paul reminds us, “let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” 

So today, with the new Ecclesiastical Year, let us remember God, without Whom nothing good can be done (John 15:5) and beseech Him to hear our prayers, so that we may journey through the coming year, with hope, trust and thanksgiving. May He guide and protect us in the coming year and always as we strive to bear faithful witness to Christ. May He comfort us in sorrow and difficulty and strengthen us for the challenges that lie ahead. May His grace be the source of all that we do in His Name!

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

 As we prepare for the Archangel Michael Feast and Honors, and the meetings of all our Metropolis Boards and Committees, we look forward to welcoming all our friends, both old and new. Your unselfish commitment to the mission and ministries of our Metropolis of Atlanta is a blessing to all your Metropolis family.

I am pleased to inform you that we have received a tremendous response to our invitations for the Honors Banquet and Program on Saturday, November 8th in Atlanta. This year, there is a special celebration “United in Ministry” benefiting our Diakonia Retreat Center and Hellenic College/Holy Cross on Friday evening, November 7. We hope that you have made plans to attend this special event as well.

We are also excited about welcoming all the Archangel Michael Honorees and their families and friends, as we celebrate and give thanks for all the devout, faithful people in our Metropolis family! Praying for a safe journey for all our participants, 

Faithfully yours,

+Fr. George Tsahakis

Chancellor

THE  SEVENTEETH ANNUAL

ARCHANGEL MICHAEL FEAST & HONORS

NOVEMBER 6 – 9, 2014

Schedule of Activities

Thursday, November 6, 2014

 4:00-6:00 PM            Vicars Meeting                                  Metropolis Board Room

 6:00-7:00 PM            Vicars Dinner                                    Metropolis Board Room

 7:00-9:00 PM            Vicars Meeting Resumes                  Metropolis Board Room

Friday, November 7, 2014

 9:00 -  9:30 AM         Coffee & Refreshments                               Metropolis Board Room

10:00-12:00 PM         Vicars & Ambassadors Meeting                  Metropolis Board Room    

10:00 -5:00  PM         Philoptochos Board Meeting                        Cathedral Board Room       

12:00 -1:00  PM         Lunch for Vicars & Ambassadors              Cathedral Kafenion

 1:00 - 2:00  PM         Lunch – Philoptochos (working lunch)       Cathedral Board Room

 1:00 - 5:00  PM         Metropolis Council Meeting                         Metropolis Board Room     

 5:00 - 6:00  PM         Vespers                                                           Metropolis Chapel

 6:00 -7:00   PM         United in Ministry Reception                       Hellenic Center Atrium

 7:00   PM                   Dinner and Entertainment        Kartos Ballroom - Thalia N. Carlos Hellenic Center                

Saturday, November 8, 2014

   8:00  -9:00  AM       Orthros                                                           Metropolis Chapel

 9:00 - 10:00  AM       Divine Liturgy                                               Metropolis Chapel

10:00 -  5:00  PM       Philoptochos Board Meeting                        Cathedral Board Room

10:00 -11:00  AM       Archons Meeting                                           Metropolis Board Room

10:00 -12:00  PM       HDF Meeting                                                 Metropolis Upstairs Room

11:00 -12:00  PM       Diakonia Deca Board Meeting                     Metropolis Board Room

11:00 – 1:00  PM       Winter Youth Rally                                      Metropolis Upstairs Room

12:00-1:00     PM       Lunch, Philoptochos (working lunch)         Cathedral Board Room

 1:00-4:00 PM      ** New Metropolis Strategic Plan Presentation and Open Forum Q&A–                                                                                                                                               Cathedral Carlos Hall

**Everyone invited and encouraged to attend/participate and offer their feedback and input.    

  5:00    PM               Great Vespers                                                Annunciation Cathedral

  6:00    PM            Banquet Reception                                        Hellenic Center Atrium

  7:00    PM        Archangel Michael Feast and  Honors Banquet*                    

                            Kartos Ballroom - Thalia N. Carlos Hellenic Center

Sunday, November 9, 2014

      8:00 AM                           Orthros                                               Annunciation Cathedral

     9:30 AM                            Honors Archieratical Divine Liturgy at

                                                Annunciation Cathedral, officiated by His Eminence

                                                Metropolitan Alexios, & Joined by our Clergy

    11:30 AM                           Honorees 2014 Group Picture following                 Solea

                                                The Divine Liturgy with His Eminence

                                                Metropolitan Alexios and Clergy

                                                NOTE:  Fellowship Reception hosted by                Carlos Hall

                                                The Annunciation Cathedral following

                                                Divine Liturgy

* All Vicars, Ambassadors, Metropolis Council, Metropolis Philoptochos Board, Archons, Diakonia Deca and our Archangel Michael Honorees and their guests are encouraged to attend.  

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

Protocol No. 147/14

September 1, 2014

Beginning of the Ecclesiastical New Year

Day for the Protection of our Natural Environment

To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

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.

This time of year is also the beginning of the academic year when our children, youth, and young adults return to school.  In addition, it is the time in association with the new Church year and the academic year that our religious, Greek education, and day school programs begin in parishes throughout our Holy Archdiocese.  These ministries are vital in teaching and nurturing our spiritual and cultural heritage among our youth, but they are also essential to the well-being of the Orthodox Christian family.

With our continued emphasis on the theme of our recent Clergy-Laity Congress, “The Orthodox Christian Family: A Dwelling of Christ and a Witness of His Gospel,” we begin this ecclesiastical year reflecting on the priority of strengthening families through the educational ministries of our parishes.  It is also a time to focus on the important role of Christian education in the home.

In our sacred work of teaching, we must affirm that education in the parish and in the home involve a collaborative and committed effort on the part of clergy, teachers and parents.  In addition to offering knowledge about our faith and Hellenic culture or teaching basic academic disciplines, programs in the parish should emphasize the identity of the Orthodox Christian family and offer resources that guide families in staying connected to God and the Church.  Through worship, prayer, reflection, and teaching in the home, families should reinforce the guidance received through the educational ministries of the parish, nurturing family members in the faith and becoming a kat’oikon ekklesia – the Church in the home (Romans 16:5, Colossians 4:15).

The Orthodox Christian family that is strengthened and guided by the educational ministry of the parish becomes a dwelling of Christ and a witness of the Gospel.  The members of the family are connected to God and to the primary mission of the Church.  Children and youth are nurtured in the faith.  They connect the values, ideals, and treasures of their cultural heritage to life today as an Orthodox family.  And the family receives the wisdom and spiritual guidance needed to seek the potential of each member, to mature in Christ, to serve others, and to bring honor and glory to God.

As we reflect on the beginning of the ecclesiastical year and our ministry to families, we also recognize that this day has been designated by the Ecumenical Patriarchate as the Day for the Protection of our Natural Environment.  With grateful hearts and as faithful stewards, we must also renew our commitment to protect all that God has created.  We do this when we identify abuse, waste, and destructive practices and affirm the priority of sustaining and respecting life.  We are also witnesses of our Creator and His grace when we seek to conserve, to renew, and to transform the world around us so that it is productive and beneficial for all people and for generations to come.

As we begin this new ecclesiastical year, I ask each of you to consider  your efforts and concern for the natural environment and to make every effort to protect the created order.  Regarding the family, I also ask all of our parishes to plan, evaluate, and offer the resources to ensure that our educational programs are helping families become Orthodox Christian families.  May we make every effort to equip and edify families in unity of faith and the knowledge of the Son of God (Ephesians 4:13) so that each family member has the spiritual foundation to mature in the fullness of Christ, and the family becomes a dwelling of Him and a witness of His Gospel.  Also, as we ask for our Lord’s generous blessings through the cycle of this year, may we also pray that He will keep our families and the natural environment in peace, safe and secure from all harm.

With paternal love in Christ,

†DEMETRIOS

Archbishop of America

FACING THE WINDS OF CHANGE IN OUR SOCIETY

Change seems to be a good thing some times; we may change schools, neighborhoods, towns, or even states; we may change cars, doctors, even political parties. Change can be a welcome renewal at times. When it comes to issues of Faith, moral issues and family values, however, change may not be the best course of action for us.

Let me use an example from everyday life: Redecorating our house, painting it a new color, moving the furniture around, getting a new couch, fixing the yard and redoing the landscaping are all welcome changes that refresh and renew our living space and may re-invigorate our lives in various ways. No one in their right mind, however, will dig

into the foundation of the house or meddle with the structural beams of the building just for the sake of change. There are some things you do not touch, for the structure will come down crumbling on your head.

Similarly, the Christian Faith and the spiritual/moral aspects of our life are the foundation and structural supports of our society and humanity itself. It has taken the very humbling of God Himself and his presence on earth for these things to be fully revealed to us. In addition, two thousand years of application and testing of these principles in the lives of Orthodox Christians, has shown their great value for us both on the personal as well as the societal level.

Unfortunately, in our days, certain people, themselves removed from God and immersed in their own passions, confused about the essential things of life, have been meddling with principles that we Orthodox have held precious over the centuries: The doctrines of the Faith (the divinity of Christ and the resurrection) have been under severe scrutiny and outright mockery for decades by the so called "intellectuals" of our time; marriage has been under attack, both as a principle and also as an institution, leading to a tremendous increase in broken families with dire spiritual, moral and psychological consequences for millions of people (both spouses and children); unbridled sexuality and

the idolatry of the flesh have been paraded even in our own living-rooms in the guise of entertainment and a norm of life, leading millions to sexual addictions, while virginity and the purity of body and soul have been mocked and ridiculed as backward and up-normal; the family, as a core institution of our society, is being pushed to the brink of destruction by new norms, new types of relationships and new ideas which are offering a false sense of personal freedom with dire consequences for all of us.

The question arises bigger than life: What can we do as Orthodox Christians?

The answer: Resist the winds of change!!! The Orthodox Church has survived the decadence of the Roman society and conquered it, establishing a Christian Empire and an Orthodox Christian culture that lasted over a thousand years, because it refused to go along with the norms of their time. It, then, survived fourteen centuries of subjugation to the muslims and decades of abuse by the communists because it held fast to the Christian principles of life and the Faith in Christ's divine power and the hope of the resurrection through Him.

This is our call today as American Orthodox Christians: We need to hold fast to the principles of Faith and life as handed down through the centuries to us and resist the winds of change!!!

 Fr. Panayiotis Papageorgiou, HOLY TRANSFIGURATION, Marietta, GA

HOLY TRINITY, Orlando, FL Philoptochos is collecting any and all useable sports equipment   to support “Sports 4 the Kids” which provides homeless and disadvantaged kids in Central Florida an opportunity to participate in sports. 

HOLY TRINITY, Charlotte, NC visitation of the myrrh-flowing Icon of Panagia Kardiotissa  Saturday, November 15 and Sunday, November 16. Saturday, Orthros 9am, Divine Liturgy & Paraklesis 9:50am.  Anointing to follow, Youth Choir will sing, Retreat for all Sunday School Students in the Church, Luncheon to follow, Vespers Service 6pm    Anointing to follow. Sunday, Orthros 8:50am Divine Liturgy & Paraklesis 10:00am. Procession of Icon with children and Myrophores escorting the Icon from the Church to return to PA.

Parishioners of HOLY TRANSFIGURATION, Marietta, GA provided over 100 bags of non-perishable food to needy families with their “Reverse Offering.” Over fifty children received specially planned and varied breakfasts, lunches and dinners which would feed the entire family for at least one week. Because of parish support of Jacob’s Garden, the parish vegetable garden, the sale of vegetables this summer provided enough money for each family to have one or two gallons of fresh milk, loaves of fresh bread and sliced ham and turkey sandwich meat. So many vegetables were picked the week before that the families were able to choose bags of bell peppers, squash, tomatoes, beans and greens.

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN Philoptochos St. Nicholas Market Nov. 15 (10 - 5) and 16 (12-5) in the church hall.  30 booths featuring home-made baby items, jewelry, candles, Christmas ornaments, Christmas crafts, floral arrangements, as well as loukomades, baklava, koulouraki and food items from Yiayia's grocery.  No admission charge. Greek Lenten lunch of Greek salad with tiropita available for purchase. 

HOLY TRINITY, Biloxi, Mississippi CONSECRATION Friday, November 14 Great Vespers - 5:30 p.m. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres reception to follow. Saturday, November 15, Orthros - 8:00 a.m. Consecration Liturgy - 9:00 a.m. Celebration Luncheon at Beauvoir - 1:00 p.m. $ 35.00, Sunday, November 16, Divine Liturgy - 10:00 a.m., Complimentary lunch to follow

ST. CHRISTOPHER, Peachtree City, GA Philoptochos Holiday GREEK PASTRY SALE: Spanakopita and Tiropita $10.00 per dozen ; Baklava $18.00 per dozen ; Kourambiethes $15.00 per dozen ;Melomakarona $15.00 per dozen ; Koulourakia $8.00 per dozen’ SAMPLER MIXED DOZEN $20.00 per box ;~Order deadline Nov. 10, ~Pick up dates – Friday Nov 21 3-6pm  and Saturday Nov. 22 9am – 12pm at 313 Dividend Drive, Peachtree City. See www.saintchristopherhoc.org for order form.

NOVEMBER

 ST. DEMETRIOS, Daytona, FL Greek Festival Nov. 6-9

HOLY TRINITY, Orlando, FL Greek Festival Nov. 7-9

ST. GEORGE, Hollywood, FL HDF Car Wash at Pasvanti's Sunoco Nov. 8, 10am

ST. GEORGE, Hollywood, FL Traditional Panigiri Under The Stars Nov. 8 8:30pm

ST. KATHERINE, Melbourne, FL Philoptochos “Greek Taverna Night,” Sat. Nov. 8, 6:30pm, $35/pp, reservations only

ST. GEORGE, New Port Richey, FL Toy Run Nov. 8, 12-5, midway rides, food & drink, benefits Boys & Girls Club

ST. NEKTARIOS, Charlotte, NC Feast Day Sat. Nov. 8 3-5pm, sanctuary open for veneration, 5pm Great Vespers with Artoclasia & anointing, followed by reception. Sunday Nov. 9, 8:15 Matins & Divine Liturgy followed by Panegiri & festive Luncheon. Suggested donation $10/adult

HOLY TRANSFIGURATION, Marietta, GA Hellenic Studies Annual Fall Bake Sale, Sunday, NOV. 9, homemade Greek baked goods & pastries

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN Thanksgiving Lunch hosted by Philoptochos Sun. Nov. 9

ST. PHILOTHEA, Athens, GA Teaching Liturgy, Nov. 9, “The Meaning of the Entrance Hymns”

ST. LUKE, Mooresville, NC Nov 9 Steward Appreciation Thanksgiving Luncheon

 ST. MARK, Boca Raton, FL Philoptochos Monday Nov. 10 Lecture Series, with Thea Halo (Author of "Not Even My Name") the Pontic Greek, Assyrian and Armenian Genocide and expulsion in Turkey after World War I

 ST. GEORGE, New Port Richey, FL YOUNG AT HEART 3 Days Trip to KEY WEST Nov. 10 – Nov. 12

ST. NEKTARIOS, Charlotte, NC Veteran’s Day Tribute, Nov. 16, memorial services, recognition & special coffee hour honoring all military personnel & veterans

 ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, Hobe Sound, FL Nov.  12   Feast Day Evening Vespers Service, Nov.  13 Divine Liturgy

ST. JOHN, Myrtle Beach, SC Philoptochos annual bake sale December 12-13

ANNUNCIATION, Ft. Myers, FL Circle of Friends Movie Night, Nov. 13, 6pm, “Noah,” $5 includes pizza & soda

ANNUNCIATION, Atlanta, GA Golden Group Thursday, Nov. 13 annual Veteran’s Day Luncheon, sponsored by

the Arcadian Society of Atlanta.

ANNUNCIATION, Atlanta, GA Philoptochos Annual “Toys for Tots” event, Thurs. Nov. 13, Mystery Chef Dinner, $20 donation & bring a new unwrapped toy. Reservations required

ST. ANDREW, Kendall, FL Greek Festival Nov. 14-16

 ST. GEORGE, New Port Richey, FL GREEK FESTIVAL, Friday Nov.14 - Sunday Nov. 16

 HOLY TRINITY, Biloxi, Mississippi CONSECRATION Friday, Nov. 14- Sunday, Nov. 16

ANNUNCIATION, Winston-Salem, NC Sat Nov 15 Philoptochos Bake Sale 8:30 am - 7:30 pm

CHRIST THE SAVIOR, Spring Hill, FL Nov. 15, Garage Sale

HOLY CROSS/STS. CONSTANTINE & HELEN, Huntsville, AL Bake Sale, Nov. 15 10am-2pm

ST. GEORGE, Hollywood, FL HDF Pasta Bingo Night Nov. 15, 8pm

ST. NICHOLAS, Wilmington, NC Nov. 15 + 16 - Philoptochos Bake Sale

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN Philoptochos St. Nicholas Market Nov. 15 (10 - 5) and 16 (12-5) in the church hall.  30 booths featuring home-made baby items, jewelry, candles, Christmas ornaments, Christmas crafts, floral arrangements, as well as loukomades, baklava, koulouraki and food items from Yiayia's grocery.  No admission charge. Greek Lenten lunch of Greek salad with tiropita available for purchase. 

 ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, Hobe Sound, FL Golden Harvest Dinner Dance Saturday, Nov. 15, Palm Bch Gardens, FL

 ANNUNCIATION, Atlanta, GA Athena’s Marketplace Saturday, Nov. 15, 9:30am-4pm, vendors selling a wide array of merchandise, delicious Greek lunch, homemade Greek specialty foods & pastries.

ST. PAUL, Savannah, GA HOPE/JOY Fall Festival, NOV. 16, Fun & Games

ST. DEMETRIOS, Fort Lauderdale, FL GOYA Gyro Sunday Fundraiser, Nov. 16

ST. JOHN, Tampa, FL Greek Festival Appreciation Luncheon Sunday, NOV. 16

 ST. LUKE, Mooresville, NC Nov 17 YOUNG AT HEART BIG BAND NIGHT

ANNUNCIATION, Atlanta, GA Golden Group trip to the Tellus Museum and Science Center Tuesday, Nov. 18, 9:30 AM, $30 includes transportation & admission fees. Lunch at Shoney’s on your own

District GOYA Advent Retreat Nov 22 – 23, Gold Coast Christian Camp, Lake Worth, FL 33449

ST. JOHN, Tampa, FL 9th Annual Advent Retreat: “Restore Unto Me the Joy of Your Salvation: Making Prayer and Worship

More Meaningful Experiences in my Life.” Saturday, NOV. 22,  9am – 3pm, $15/pp, lunch provided

ST. NEKTARIOS, Charlotte, NC Annual Community Fundraiser, “A Night on Broadway,” Nov. 22, hors d’oeuvres & cocktails, 6:30pm, Broadway Show 7:30pm, music by Nick Trivelas, dancing & auction to follow. $50pp. $20 students

ST. NICHOLAS, Tarpon Springs, FL Philoptochos 5th Annual Rummage Sale Nov. 22

CHRIST THE SAVIOR, Bluff City, TN 2nd Annual Advent Retreat Sat, NOV. 22, 10am – 3pm

Guest Speaker: Fr. Barnabas Powell. Suggested donation is $10 for adults. Lunch provided.

ST. NICHOLAS, Wilmington, NC Nov. 22 - First Annual St. Nicholas Talent Show

HOLY TRANSFIGURATION, Marietta, GA Annual Stewardship Thanksgiving Luncheon, Sunday, NOV. 24

Shrimp and Grits, Free Will Offering

 ST. KATHERINE, Naples, FL St. Katherine Day luncheon Nov. 23, Feast Day Great Vespers, Philoptochos Reception Nov. 24, Divine Liturgy Nov. 25

ST. STEFANOS, St. Petersburg, FL Philoptochos Bake Sale & Turkey Raffle Nov. 23

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Heart of Greece Dance Troupe Thanksgiving Bake Sale Nov. 23

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Feast Day Nov. 24 Great Vespers 7pm followed by reception hosted by Philoptochos, Nov. 25 Orthros 9am, Divine Liturgy 10am

ST. KATHERINE, Melbourne, FL Mon., Nov. 24 - Vespers for St. Katherine followed by Artoklasia & reception - 6 pm Tues., Nov. 25 - Feast day of our Church St. Katherine Orthros 9 am Divine Liturgy 10 am

ST. JOHN, Jacksonville, FL Thanksgiving Communion Breakfast, Thanksgiving Day Thursday, NOV. 27, Liturgy 9am Followed by a Community Breakfast

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Sunday Nov. 30, “Brunch for the Red Carpet” fundraiser to replace the carpet in the church

DECEMBER

 ST. GEORGE, Greenville, SC Thursday, Dec. 4, Annual Philoptochos Nameday Celebration -   St. Barbara Feastday

HOLY TRINITY, Raleigh, NC Philoptochos Holiday Café Featuring Delicious Greek Food  Thursday, Dec. 4, 11am-8pm Friday, Dec. 5, 11 am-8 pm , Saturday, Dec. 6, pastry pick-up only, 9am-12 pm

ST. LUKE, Mooresville, NC St. Nicholas Feast Day and Gingerbread House Family Day Dec 6 9:15am

ST. PAUL, Savannah, GA Family Seminar: Our Home Runs, Strengthening relationships in the young families, Sat. Dec. 6 Led by: CH. CPT. Curtis Sutherland and Fr. Vasile Mihai, $40 for materials, $10/family for dinner

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD, Tallahassee, FL Feast Day of St. Nicholas Family Pancake Breakfast  Sponsored by GOYA Saturday,Dec. 6 Following Divine Liturgy, crafts and a surprise visit from St. Nicholas

ANNUNCIATION, Mobile, AL Breakfast with St. Nicholas, Sat, Dec. 6, 11am – 12pm

St. Photios Blessing of the Animals Saturday, Dec 6

HOLY TRINITY, Charleston, SC Philoptochos Christmas Party Dec. 6

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Dinner Dance Dec. 6, cocktails 6:30pm, dinner 7:30pm, music by the Aegean Duo, dancing, $75pp, $40 student (ages 12-22), $10 for supervision of children 11 & younger

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN HOPE & JOY Caroling Sunday, Dec 7

ST. GEORGE, Greenville, SC Greek School Christmas Caroling Dec. 7

ST. NICHOLAS, Ft. Pierce, FL Annual Dinner Dance Sat, Dec. 13, 5pm – 10pm, live band. Tickets available in advance or at the door

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Candlelight Service & Nativity Program & Dinner, hosted by the Sunday School, desserts, raffle, live music & Christmas caroling, Sat. Dec. 13, 5pm, $20 donation, children free

ST. PAUL, Savannah, GA Philoptochos Christmas Brunch & Ornament Exchange, Dec. 13, 11:30am

ST. LUKE, Mooresville, NC Parents’ Night Out Dec 13 4pm

HOLY TRINITY, Charleston, SC HOP/GOYA Brunch, Dec. 13

ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, Hobe Sound, FL Dec.  13  Philoptochos Saturday  Bake Sale & YiaYia's Attic

ST. PHILOTHEA, Athens, GA Sunday School Nativity Pageant, Sun, Dec. 14, 11:30am – 1:30pm

ST. PHILOTHEA, Athens, GA Stewardship Breakfast, Sun, Dec. 14, 11:30am – 12:30pm

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN Nativity Program Dec. 14

ST. GEORGE, Knoxville, TN Philoptochos Nativity Lunch Dec. 14

ST. KATHERINE, Melbourne, FL Sunday School Spaghetti Fundraiser Luncheon, Dec. 14

ST. DEMETRIOS, Ft. Lauderdale, FL Christmas Pageant Dec. 14

ST. DEMETRIOS, Ft. Lauderdale, FL Christmas Boutique Dec. 14

HOLY TRINITY, Charleston, SC Christmas Pageant, Dec. 14

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Dec. 14 Philoptochos Christmas Pastry & Vasilopita Bake Sale

ST. CATHERINE, W. Palm Beach, FL Dec. 20 Saturday, Philoptochos Christmas Party noon, buffet lunch, desserts, music and dancing, $45pp

ANNUNCIATION, Mobile, AL Christmas Camp Sat, Dec. 20, 10am – 2pm

ST. JOHN, Jacksonville, FL Community Christmas Party Saturday, Dec. 20, 4:30 - 5:30 Visit with Santa 6pm. Program followed by dinner

ANNUNCIATION, Mobile, AL Candlelight Service/Christmas Pageant Sun, Dec. 21, 6pm – 7pm

ST. LUKE, Mooresville, NC Candlelight Caroling service & living Nativity scene, Dec. 21 6:30pm

ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, Hobe Sound, FL Dec.  23  Christmas Pageant

MOA Winter Youth Rally, Dec. 27-30

ANNUNCIATION, Mobile, AL GOYA Lock-in Dec. 31-Jan. 1

Feastdays in November
Why are we celebrating Liturgy on these days?

November 8 Feast of the Archangels-This feast commemorates the Archangels Michael and Gabriel and all of the “bodiless powers” of heaven, all of the angels.

November 9 Feast of St. Nectarios-St. Nectarios is a “modern day” saint, a saint of the 20th Century, (Died in 1920, Canonized as a Saint in 1960), who was a bishop in Greece. St. Nectarios is the patron saint of cancer patients and is considered one of our “healing” saints, meaning that we invoke his intercessions when we are praying for those who are sick. Cancer sufferers and survivors are urged to attend this Liturgy in order to pray for continued healing through the Intercessions of St. Nectarios. 

November 13 Feast of St. John Chrysostom-St. John Chrysostom lived in the 4th Century. He was a Bishop of the Church and is recognized as one of the Three Hierarchs (together with St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory the Theologian). He received the title “Chrysostomos,” meaning “the Golden Mouth,” for his great ability in oratory. St. John Chrysostom authored the Divine Liturgy that we celebrate on most Sundays. Therefore, we offer the Divine Liturgy on this day in honor of St. John Chrysostom.

November 21 Feast of the Entrance of the Virgin Mary into the Temple-The Entrance of the Virgin Mary (Ta Eisodia) Commemorates when the Virgin Mary entered into the Temple at age two to begin a life of service to God, in preparation for the awesome role she would play in the history of humanity as the Theotokos. This is one of the 12 Major Feastdays of the Orthodox Liturgical Year. 

November 25 Feast of St. Katherine the Great Martyr- St. Katherine was born in Alexandria, Egypt in the third century. She was very wise and eloquent, successfully arguing for Christianity in the face of tyrannical rulers and philosophers. She was martyred in the year 305 and her relics were taken by Angels to Mount Sinai where they were discovered many years later. St. Katherine has the title “Pansophou” the “All-Wise.” 

November 30 Feast of St. Andrew-St. Andrew is the first-called of the Apostles. He is also the patron saint of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

This Week in Orthodoxy

Headlines include:

• Mosul’s Christians find safe haven in Jordan.
• Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America, Demetrios declares Nov 2 a day of prayer and support for Philanthropic Ministries.
• The Orthodox Church of America has completed its audit of records for the 2013 fiscal year.
• The National Philoptochos Society appoints a new President at the National Philoptochos Board meeting.

http://myocn.net/week-orthodoxy-october-31-2014/

Blog: Is Orthodoxy Ethnically Exclusive?

OCN Blogger Fr. Ernesto Obregon, himself a Cuban-American Orthodox priest, offers his unique perspective on the role of ethnicity in American Orthodoxy. Find out why he thinks this is an issue that will find its own resolution.   http://myocn.net/orthodoxy-ethnically-exclusive/

You can support our ministry with only 10 cents a day!  100 percent of your donation goes to ministry, not to overhead. For the cost of a cup of coffee each month, you can help OCN comfort, inspire, and inform people around the world.   http://myocn.net/donate-10-cents-day-orthodox-christian-network/

CRTL: Helping Children Grieve

Fr. Chris speaks with Maria Scaros Mercado, a licensed creative arts psychotherapist and board certified clinical chaplain and pastoral counselor, who reveals the importance of allowing children to grieve and to grieve with you. We also speak with Tiffany Papageorge about her new book My Yellow Balloon, which navigates children through the experience of love, loss, grief, and finding peace.  http://myocn.net/helping-children-with-grief-and-loss/

Holy Mountain: a universal presence and a heavenward orientation

Are you enjoying OCN's partnership with Pemptousia? Read the latest article from Pemptousia, tracing through history and story-telling the influence of Mount Athos on Orthodoxy worldwide.  http://myocn.net/holy-mountain-universal-presence-heavenward-orientation/

Support OCN When You Shop!

Shop on Amazon, buy anything you need, and support OCN at no additional cost to you! Click above to enter Amazon through our portal, and Amazon will donate a portion of the proceeds to OCN each time you make a purchase. Thank you for your support!

http://myocn.net/orthodox-christian-store/

FAQ REGARDING THE 2014 ST PHOTIOS GREEK ORTHODOX NATIONAL SHRINE ESSAY CONTEST

Senior High School Students are invited to submit a 1,000 word essay comparing the immigrant story of the Greek Colonists who came to America in 1768 with the story of a friend or family member.  The deadline for submission is November 21, 2014.  F

1. Why offer an annual Essay Contest?

We are connected to one another through our stories.  The story of the largest colony of immigrants to settle in one place in the new world was written by historian, Dr E P Panagopoulos.  There are as many immigrant stories as there are immigrants yet with similar circumstances.  We can connect with each other by sharing these stories.

2. What is the relationship between New Smyrna Beach and St Augustine, FL?

 On April 17, 1768 7/8 ships docked in St Augustine, the capital of the East Florida Province.  (the 8^th one arrived in August as it was lost at sea).  The ships were registered into port, their manifests recorded and then laden with the supplies necessary to bring the travelers to Mosquito Inlet where Dr Andrew Turnbull, the lead entrepreneur of this British Crown project, would set up an indigo plantation which he would name New Smyrna Colony, after the birthplace of his wife and first born son, Nicholas.  In 1777, the surviving colonists escaped to St Augustine where Gov. Patrick Tonyn granted them refugee status.

3. Where can I find additional information about the Greeks who came to America in 1768?

On the Shrine’s website, by emailing your questions to info@stphotios.com, by referring to the many books written on the subject including:  The New Smyrna Colony, an 18^th century Odyssey by Dr Panagopoulos.

4. Do I have to compare their story to someone I know? 

Yes, you must know or have known the person.

5. How do I submit my essay?

Your essay can be emailed to info@stphotios.org.  It is due by November 21.  You may also mail it to Polly Hillier, St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine, St Augustine, FL 32084.

6. When will I learn the results of the contest?

You will receive an email of the results by December 23, 2014.  After the students are contacted, a  press release posting the results will be available on the Shrine website,  www.stphotios.org.  By January 1^st, certificates of participation will be sent with the prizes. 

7. What are the prizes?

There are three cash prizes – First prize - $500, 2^nd prize $250, 3^rd prize $100.

Our Registration Chair has tested the links and Registration is NOW OPEN for individuals to sign up for the Winter Youth Rally, December 27-30, 2014.

If you are participating in a TEAM SPORT, your Coach or Lead Advisor must have already entered your team into the system so you ensure you have both your TEAM NAME & PASSWORD before you begin the registration process.  Individuals, Bible Bowl Competitors, Coaches, Advisors, and Priests should use the last link and do not need a password to register.

The cost to attend WYR 2014 is $250.00 per person, and includes:  3 nights, 4 days at the Marriott Century Center; 3 breakfasts, 3 full dinners, lunch on Tuesday (final competition day), snacks, a Dance, and our Opening Mixer.

Other important details include:

• Team & Individual Registration CLOSES on NOVEMBER 17th.
• LATE REGISTRATION NOVEMBER 18TH – DECEMBER 1st (based on availability)is $295.00 per participant
• Payment can be made by credit or debit card. (We are not responsible for insufficient fund fees)
• At the time of registration, you will have the option of paying in full OR paying fifty percent (50%) of total cost.  If you chose the 50% payment option, the balance will be automatically charged to the credit card on file the week of November 24th. 
• If you register after November 18th, full pre-payment is required. 

CANCELLATIONS

Before December 2nd:               100% refundable less a $25 processing fee

December 3rd - December 10th: 50% refundable less a $25 processing fee

December 11th-December 28th:  non-refundable

Your LEAD ADVISOR will also be able to guide you, and answer questions regarding paperwork, team travel, expectations, practice schedule, etc.  We look forward to seeing YOUth in Atlanta & cheering on our Teammates in Christ!

SENIOR BASKETBALL BOYS (10^TH – 12^TH GRADERS):

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009630&mode=0

JUNIOR BASKETBALL BOYS (7^TH – 9^TH GRADERS):

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009662&mode=0

GIRLS BASKETBALL (7^TH – 12^TH GRADERS):

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009663&mode=0

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL (7^TH – 12^TH GRADERS):

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009664&mode=0

CO-ED VOLLEYBALL (7^TH – 12^TH GRADERS) AND AT LEAST TWO BOYS ON THE TEAM:

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009660&mode=0

INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION LINK FOR GOYANS NOT PLAYING A SPORT:

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009646&mode=0

PRIESTS, ADVISORS, COACH/ADVISOR:

https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3107661&RF=3009647&mode=0