January 28
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-01-28
Bulletin Contents
Hymns of the Day
Saints and Feasts
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Bulletin Inserts
Wisdom of the Fathers
Parish News and Events
Calendar of Events
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
General Information
- Phone:
- (412)366-8700
- Fax:
- (412)366-8710
- Email:
- office@holytrinitypgh.org
- Street Address:
- 985 Providence Blvd.
- Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5951
Contact Information
Services Schedule
Worship Schedule
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy
Worship Locations:
Sunday worship location: Holy Trinity Church, 985 Providence Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Weekday/Feast Day worship location: St. George Chapel, 8941 Ringeisen Rd., Allison Park, PA
Past Bulletins
- Publish Date:
- 2024-01-21
- Publish Date:
- 2024-01-14
- Publish Date:
- 2024-01-07
- Publish Date:
- 2023-12-31
- Publish Date:
- 2023-12-24
- Publish Date:
- 2023-12-17
Hymns of the Day
Resurrectional Apolytikion in the First Tone
Though the tomb was sealed with a stone by the Jews and the soldiers guarded Your pure body, You arose, O Savior, on the third day, giving life to the world. Therefore, O Giver of Life, the heavenly powers praise You. Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ; glory to Your kingdom; glory to Your plan of redemption, O only loving God. (Page 52)
Apolytikion for Ephraim the Syrian in the Eighth Tone
With the rivers of your tears you made the barren desert bloom; and with your sighs from deep within, you made your labors bear their fruits a hundredfold; and you became a star, illuminating the world by your miracles, O Ephraim, our devout father. Intercede with Christ our God, for the salvation of our souls.
Apolytikion of Holy Trinity Church (Page 75) in the First Tone
English: Blessed are You, O Christ our God, Who has shown forth the fishermen to be most wise by sending down upon them the Holy Spirit. And through them, You drew the world into Your net. O merciful One, glory to You!
Greek: Ευλογητός ει Χριστέ, ο Θεός ήμων, ο πανσόφους τους αλιείς αναδείξας, καταπέμψας αυτοίς το Πνεύμα το άγιον, και δι΄αυτών την οικουμένην σαγηνεύσας, φιλάνθρωπε, δόξα σοι.
Phoenetics: Ev-lo-yi-tos i Hri-ste o The-os i-mon. O Pan-so-fous tous a-li-is a-na-di-xas ka-ta-pemp-sas af-tis to Pnev-ma to A-yi-on, ke di af-ton tin i-kou-men-in sa-i-nef-sas, fi-lan-thro-pe, do-xa si.
Seasonal Kontakion in the First Tone
Your birth sanctified a Virgin's womb and properly blessed the hands of Symeon. Having now come and saved us O Christ our God, give peace to Your commonwealth in troubled times and strengthen those in authority, whom You love, as only the loving One.
Saints and Feasts
January 28
Ephraim the Syrian
Saint Ephraim was born in Nisibis of Mesopotamia some time about the year 306, and in his youth was the disciple of Saint James, Bishop of Nisibis, one of the 318 Fathers at the First Ecumenical Council. Ephraim lived in Nisibis, practicing a severe ascetical life and increasing in holiness, until 363, the year in which Julian the Apostate was slain in his war against the Persians, and his successor Jovian surrendered Nisibis to them. Ephraim then made his dwelling in Edessa, where he found many heresies to do battle with. He waged an especial war against Bardaisan; this gnostic had written many hymns propagating his errors, which by their sweet melodies became popular and enticed souls away from the truth. Saint Ephraim, having received from God a singular gift of eloquence, turned Bardaisan's own weapon against him, and wrote a multitude of hymns to be chanted by choirs of women, which set forth the true doctrines, refuted heretical error, and praised the contests of the Martyrs.
Of the multitude of sermons, commentaries, and hymns that Saint Ephraim wrote, many were translated into Greek in his own lifetime. Sozomen says that Ephraim "Surpassed the most approved writers of Greece," observing that the Greek writings, when translated into other tongues, lose most of their original beauty, but Ephraim's works "are no less admired when read in Greek than when read in Syriac" (Eccl. Hist., Book 111, 16). Saint Ephraim was ordained deacon, some say by Saint Basil the Great, whom Sozomen said "was a great admirer of Ephraim, and was astonished at his erudition." Saint Ephraim was the first to make the poetic expression of hymnody and song a vehicle of Orthodox theological teachings, constituting it an integral part of the Church's worship; he may rightly be called the first and greatest hymnographer of the Church, who set the pattern for these who followed him, especially Saint Romanos the Melodist. Because of this he is called the "Harp of the Holy Spirit." Jerome says that his writings were read in some churches after the reading of the Scriptures, and adds that once he read a Greek translation of one of Ephraim's works, "and recognized, even in translation, the incisive power of his lofty genius" (De vir. ill., ch. CXV).
Shortly before the end of his life, a famine broke out in Edessa, and Saint Ephraim left his cell to rebuke the rich for not sharing their goods with the poor. The rich answered that they knew no one to whom they could entrust their goods. Ephraim asked them, "What do you think of me?" When they confessed their reverence for him, he offered to distribute their alms, to which they agreed. He himself cared with his own hands for many of the sick from the famine, and so crowned his life with mercy and love for neighbor. Saint Ephraim reposed in peace, according to some in the year 373, according to others, 379.
January 28
Isaac the Syrian, Bishop of Ninevah
The great luminary of the life of stillness, Saint Isaac, was born in the early seventh century in Eastern Arabia, the present-day Qatar on the Persian Gulf. He became a monk at a young age, and at some time left Arabia to dwell with monks in Persia. He was consecrated Bishop of Nineveh (and is therefore sometimes called "Saint Isaac of Nineveh"), but after five months received permission to return to solitude; he spent many years far south of Nineveh in the mountainous regions of Beit Huzaye, and lastly at the Monastery of Rabban Shabur. He wrote his renowned and God-inspired Ascetical Homilies toward the end of his long life of monastic struggle, about the end of the seventh century. The fame of his Homilies grew quickly, and about one hundred years after their composition they were translated from Syriac into Greek by two monks of the Monastery of Mar Sabbas in Palestine, from which they spread throughout the monasteries of the Roman Empire and became a guide to the hesychasts of all generations thereafter.
January 28
Grace the Martyr
January 28
James the Righteous
January 28
Palladios the Hermit of Antioch
Saint Palladios the Desert Dweller led an ascetical life in a certain mountain cave near Syrian Antioch. Because of his struggles, he received from the Lord a gift of wonderworking. Once, a merchant was found murdered by robbers near his cave. People accused Saint Palladios of the murder, but through the prayer of the saint, the dead man rose up and named his murderers. The saint died at the end of the fourth century, leaving behind several edifying works.
January 28
Theodosius of Totma
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Epistle Reading
Prokeimenon. First Tone. Psalm 32.22,1.
Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us.
Verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.
The reading is from St. Paul's First Letter to Timothy 4:9-15.
Timothy, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and suffer reproach, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you. Practice these duties, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.
Gospel Reading
15th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 19:1-10
At that time, Jesus was passing through Jericho. And there was a man named Zacchaios; he was a chief collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaios, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today." So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." And Zacchaios stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."
Bulletin Inserts
Weekly Bulletin - Sunday, January 28, 2024
Weekly Bulletin - Sunday, January 28, 2024
The Jared Box Project
The GOYA & Philoptochos are working together to fill 200+ Jared's Boxes with small gifts, games, books & other activities to give a fun diversion to children in local hospitals. Please see the attached flyer for details on how you can help.
OVC Sunday - Orthodox Volunteer Corps
Orthodox Volunteer Corps (OVC) is a yearlong domestic service program for Orthodox young adults ages 21-29. Applications for Fall 2024 are open now and due February 22. Please see the attached flyer for details or visit orthodoxvolunteercorps.org.
2024 Stewardship Independence
2024 is the Year for Stewardship Independence!
Faith and Family Weekdays Guide
Be sure to check out the Faith and Family Weekdays 2023-2024 Fall Guide. Grow your knowledge and practice of the Faith. There is something for everyone!
Holy Trinity Hospitality Hour
The all new "Holy Trinity Hospitality Hour" will continue to embrace the opportunity to foster Christ-centered relationships, to "love your neighbor", to meet and greet newcomers and to build and strengthen existing friendships...but in a whole new format!
Wisdom of the Fathers
In this reading we note Zacchaeus' sense of eager expectation, the intensity of his desire to see our Lord, and we apply this to ourselves. If, as we prepare for Lent, there is real eagerness in our hearts, if we have an intense desire for a clearer vision of Christ, then our hopes will be fulfilled during the fast; indeed, we shall, like Zacchaeus, receive far more than we expect.
The Meaning of the Great Fast from the Lenten Triodion
Little Zacchaeus had climbed up into a tree, to see the Lord Jesus with his own eyes. He had sought Him, desired Him. And we must seek Him in order to find Him, and desire that He draw near to us, and climb up high in spirit to meet His glance. Then He will visit our house as He visited the house of Zacchaeus, and bring salvation with Him.
Prolog, 4 February
Parish News and Events
TODAY'S EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Memorials Today
Memorial prayers will be offered at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy today for the repose of the souls of the servants of God, John Beckas (3 years), Betty (Vasiliki) Beckas (19 years) & George Beckas, (6 years). Memorial prayers will also be offered for the servant of God, Jonathan Kohan (1 year). May their memory be eternal! Thank you to the Beckas family for sponsoring today’s Hospitality Hour.
Ladies Philoptochos Meeting – Today
Philoptochos will be holding a very important meeting today for all members. The budget for the year will be discussed and we would like to have everyone's input. Our meeting will be held after Divine Liturgy in the Conference Room, following Sunday School. Please get yourself something to drink and eat and meet in the Conference Room. Looking forward to seeing many of our members at the meeting!
UPCOMING EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
OVC Sunday – Orthodox Volunteer Corps
Orthodox Volunteer Corps (OVC) is a yearlong domestic service program for Orthodox young adults ages 21-29 and an official agency of the Assembly of Bishops. OVC offers young adults from across the country immersive service in Pittsburgh and Boston, working at homeless shelters, after-school programs, free medical clinics, and more. In addition, Corps Members receive weekly formation & training in Orthodoxy and community-based leadership development, live in community with other Orthodox young adults, and engage local parishes. Housing, transportation, and food are 100% covered. Applications for Fall 2024 are open now and due February 22. For more information about OVC, see page 5 of this bulletin or visit orthodoxvolunteercorps.org.
Services This Week:
- Tuesday, January 30,8:30am Orthros/9:30am Divine Liturgy: The Three Hierarchs (St. George Chapel)
Faith & Family Weekdays
Faith and Family Weekdays is back, and there are many ways for each of to grow in the knowledge and practice of our faith. Ready to learn more about the Bible, about the Orthodox Church, about navigating life’s challenges as a Christian, a woman, or a man? It’s all there. There’s a lot more to church than Sundays, and here is where to find it.
THIS WEEK:
- Wed. Jan 31, 6:30pm Vespers/7:00pm: “Explore the Word” - Father Radu leads us through his new book, “Icon of the Kingdom of God.” Drawing on a rich knowledge of scripture, the Church fathers, and theologians, learn what the Church is and what it means to us. Remaining dates are Jan 31, Feb 7, 21 & 28.
- Thurs. Feb 1, 7:00am: “Prayer & Panera” – Prayer and Christian fellowship for men. Meet at church promptly at 7:00am for a 15–20-minute morning prayer and scripture, then move up the hill to Panera for 45 minutes of coffee & conversation.
2024 Stewardship – Have You Committed Yet? We Can Do This Together!
Holy Trinity Church and all its ministries are made possible through the generous donations and support of our stewards, who offer their time, talents, and treasures throughout the year. The 2024 Stewardship Pledge Cards have been mailed out. If you have not yet received a printed pledge card, you may pick one up in the Narthex or call the office at (412-366-8700) to request one to be sent by mail. You also have the option of making your 2024 Stewardship Pledge ONLINE through our new Realm system. It’s so easy! Just visit our website at HolyTrinityPgh.org/pledge or click the “2024 Stewardship Pledge” icon on the front page. Remember, every Holy Trinity member who pledges or donates already has a Realm account, and that makes pledging, giving, and reporting so much easier! You can even access your giving statement any time from your account without waiting for it to be mailed or emailed. Not sure how to access your account? Just visit HolyTrinityPgh.org/give and click “Sign In.” Use your email address and password to login. Don’t know your password? Simply click “Forgot password” and a link will be emailed to you to create or re-create one. And remember, 2024 is the year we ask everyone to make a “Stewardship Independence Pledge” as we together climb Holy Trinity’s “Stewardship Independence Mountain” to fully support our church with internal funding and your love.
[Jan 29] GOYA Basketball Practice
GOYA continues to practice for the 2024 season. This week’s practice will be held on Monday, January 29 from 6:00-8:00pm at the North Allegheny Intermediate School (NAI), 350 Cumberland Rd, Lower Gym. All teens are invited.
The Jared Box Project
The GOYA & Philoptochos are working together to fill 200+ Jared's Boxes with small gifts, games, books & other activities to give a fun diversion to children in local hospitals. We will be collecting items for tween & teen boys and girls (ages 8 and up). Items may be purchased at the dollar store or on our Amazon gift registry under "Holy Trinity Pittsburgh GOYA" and dropped off in the collection bin in the gallery until February 11, 2024. The boxes will be assembled as a service project during the upcoming Holy Trinity hosted GOYA basketball tournament. For more information about The Jared Box Project see https//thejaredbox.org or contact Nicole Steiner at 412-352-0289.
[Feb 16-18] Holy Trinity GOYA Basketball Tournament - Volunteers Needed!
Save the dates for the upcoming Holy Trinity hosted GOYA Basketball Tournament to be held February 16-18, 2024! We are making plans to welcome over 400 GOYAns, clergy, coaches, and chaperones from 11 parishes throughout the Metropolis. To make the tournament a success, the GOYA will need help from everyone in our community. Volunteers will be needed to run the clocks and keep score, oversee gyms & hotels, serve as medical points of contact at the gyms, sell concessions and prepare and serve meals. Please volunteer online at HolyTrinityPgh.org/volunteer. Contact Tournament Chairperson, Penny Balouris at 724-813-5726 for more info.
Hospitality Hour News
We are starting a New Year and need some help with our Hospitality Hour. It is not much effort if it is shared, so please do your part and volunteer! How? Offer to help set up or clean up once or twice during the year or gather with a couple of families and host a Sunday, to honor someone or something, or "just because". See an Open Table date? Bring something and help out. Please do not let this fall on just a few people! Our next available date is February 25. Questions? Contact Stacy Dickos at 412-298-9409 or email hospitality@HolyTrinityPgh.org.
GREECE BY FAITH – ACT FAST – THIS TRIP IS FILLING QUICKLY!!
The Holy Trinity Pilgrimage Ministry is pleased to announce its 2024 Pilgrimage: “Greece by Faith” September 23 through October 4, 2024. To request a reservation form, please send an email to pilgrimage@HolyTrinityPgh.org. Your reservation form and $800 deposit must be and submitted by March 11, 2024. Full payment is due June 21, 2024. For more details visit: holytrinitypgh.org/2024-greece. A brochure was included in the January edition of the Herald and additional copies can be found at the church office window.
Welcome, Holy Trinity Guests!
We welcome all our guests to Holy Trinity Church today, whether as visitors from out of town, family members joining others here for worship today or even soon-to-be members here for the first time. No matter what the reason the Holy Spirit brought you here today, we welcome you with open arms and hearts filled with the love of Christ. Please help us welcome you by signing in at the hospitality table in the Narthex, where you will be presented with a yellow lapel Cross to help us know that you're here. Please fill out an information card so we can contact you with any information you may need concerning life here at Holy Trinity Church. Following Liturgy, we invite you to join us for our Hospitality hour.
About Receiving Holy Communion in the Orthodox Church
We welcome all who have come to worship with us today. Whether you are an Orthodox Christian, an inquirer to the faith or a first-time guest in an Orthodox Church, we are pleased to have you with us and thankful for the opportunity to share and bear witness to this ancient and timeless Faith. In accordance with the holy canons and traditions of the Church, please note that Holy Communion and the other Holy Mysteries (Sacraments) are received only by those who are baptized and chrismated (confirmed) Orthodox Christians who have properly prepared through prayer, fasting and confession. All others are invited receive the antidoron (blessed bread) and a blessing from the priest at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy. Please also join our parish family for Hospitality Hour and allow us to meet and welcome you. Interested in joining or learning more about the Orthodox Christian Faith? Please see one of our priests or complete a visitor’s card today! How to receive: Please remember the following helpful hints aimed at helping to preserve the solemnity and safety of the Holy Mystery. Anyone wearing lipstick should remove it before receiving. Be sure to offer your baptismal name to priest before receiving. Please take great care that the red cloth held by the acolytes (you should not hold it) is fully under your chin, then use the centuries-old practice of receiving: please fully open your mouth, then gently close your lips to make sure the Holy Gifts are securely in your mouth and so that none of the holy and precious Body and Blood of Christ is accidentally spilled. Thank you for your cooperation, and may God have mercy on us all!