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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2015-03-01
Bulletin Contents
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Bulletin Inserts
Sunday Solemn Vesper Services
Hymns of the Day
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America News
Wisdom of the Fathers
Saints and Feasts
Message from Archbishop Demetrios
Parish News and Events
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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

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

  • 601 South Central Avenue

  • Chicago, IL 60644-5089

Contact Information

Proistamenos Very Rev. Timothy Bakakos

frtimothy@assumptionchicago.org | 773-626-3114

Associate Pastor Rev. Fr. Dimitrios Burikas


frdimitrios@assumptionchicago.org | 773-626-3114

Services Schedule

Worship Hours:

Sunday

8:30 am - Orthros

10:00 am - Divine Liturgy

Sunday Summer Hours
8:00 am - Orthros

9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Sunday Church School 

 9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Weekday Services

8:30 am - Orthros

9:30 am - Divine Liturgy

Past Bulletins


Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-40

Brethren, by faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing rather to share ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

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

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

Gospel Reading

Sunday of Orthodoxy
The Reading is from John 1:43-51

At that time, Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and he said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!" Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the son of God! You are the King of Israel!" Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man."

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Bulletin Inserts

    Survey on Science & Technology

    Survey on Science & Technology

    In an effort to better serve our Archdiocese, the Archdiocesan Advisory Committee on Science & Technology (AACST) has developed a simple survey to learn about the particular interests and concerns of our people. The survey will take you less than 3 minutes to complete and your identity is completely protected.

    Hellenic College Holy Cross Open House - October 11, 2014

    Hellenic College Holy Cross Open House - October 11, 2014

    Join the HCHC Community on Saturday, October 11, 2014 for an Open House from 10 AM - 4 PM. Meet professors and sit in on mini-classes; discover our dynamic undergraduate and graduate programs; tour our stunning campus overlooking the Boston skyline; find out about applying and paying for a college education; celebrate your faith; connect with other Orthodox Christian youth; hear beautiful Byzantine chant by seminarians; and more! Register Online at http://hchcopenhouse.eventbrite.com 

    St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - B&W

    St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - B&W

    A Ground Blessing for the new St. Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center will be held on October 18, 2014, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will preside at this historic event. Share the information with your parish!

    St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - Color

    St. Nicholas National Shrine Ground Blessing - Color

    A Ground Blessing for the new St. Nicholas National Shrine at the World Trade Center will be held on October 18, 2014, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will preside at this historic event. Share the information with your parish!

    CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now!

    CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now!

    CrossRoad 2015 Applications Available Now! Calling all high school juniors & seniors who may be interested in applying to this 10-day summer program at Hellenic College Holy Cross! For more information, visit our website: http://www.crossroadinstitute.org/

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal First Mode

Let us worship the Word, O ye faithful, praising Him that with the Father and the Spirit is co-beginningless God, Who was born of a pure Virgin that we all be saved; for He was pleased to mount the Cross in the flesh that He assumed, accepting thus to endure death. And by His glorious rising, He also willed to resurrect the dead.

Apolytikion for Sun. of Orthodoxy in the Second Mode

We worship Thine immaculate icon, O Good One, asking the forgiveness of our failings, O Christ our God; for of Thine own will Thou wast well-pleased to ascend the Cross in the flesh, that Thou mightest deliver from slavery to the enemy those whom Thou hadst fashioned. Wherefore, we cry to Thee thankfully: Thou didst fill all things with joy, O our Saviour, when Thou camest to save the world.

Apolytikion of Martyr Eudocia in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone

The image of God, was faithfully preserved in you, O Mother. For you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By Your actions you taught us to look beyond the flesh for it passes, rather to be concerned about the soul which is immortal. Wherefore, O Holy Eudokia, your soul rejoices with the angels.

Kontakion of Martyr Eudocia in the Fourth Tone

When thou wast brought up from the mire of transgression, like a most precious stone whose brightness is darkened, repentance made thee shine again with godliness; and when thou hadst reached the height of ascetical striving. Christ made thee illustrious with the glory of contest, and hath bestowed on thee His grace to heal, O wise Eudocia, thou rival of angel-kind.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Fourth Mode

To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the victory festival as a thank offering. In your irresistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwedded bride!"

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

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

Kontakion of Great Martyr Catherine in the Second Tone

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

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015

02/20/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicallent2015
In the hymns and services of the Triodion period and at the entrance of this holy season of Great Lent, we are called to repentance. We are invited to come before God in the humility of the Publican. We are beckoned to return to His dwelling and His compassionate embrace as the Prodigal Son. We are confronted with the causes of our separation from God and our need for His great mercy. It is truly a time of repentance as we prepare to commemorate and contemplate all that has been done for us through Christ our Lord.

Archbishop Demetrios Offers Condolences on the Slaying of Coptic Orthodox Christians in Libya - Archdiocese to Participate in a Special Prayer Service

02/19/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/condolencesforcopticchristians
After learning about the recent brutal slaying of twenty-one Coptic Orthodox Christians from Egypt by the members of ISIS, Archbishop Demetrios of America, on behalf of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA, issued letters of condolences to the Coptic Orthodox Bishops in the United States. The Coptic Orthodox Christians were kidnapped in December and January from Libya and were held captive until their massacre.

FDF2015 - The largest gathering of Greek Orthodox Youth in the U.S.

02/16/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/fdf2015release1-02162015
The 2015 Greek Orthodox Folk Dance and Choral Festival (FDF2015) just concluded another very successful year and its four-day weekend celebration of Faith, Dance and Fellowship. FDF is the largest gathering of Greek-Orthodox young people in the United States and arguably the largest youth festival of traditional Greek dancing in the world. Approximately 2,500 young people took part as dancers, musicians and singers, and more than 3,500 people attended in total, including parents, grandparents and friends.

Faith, Dance and Fellowship: 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival

02/12/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/fdfonline2015-02122015
The 2015 Folk Dance and Choral Festival of the Metropolis of San Francisco begins today in Anaheim, California and will run through Sunday, Feb. 15. The renowned FDF event, now in its 39th year celebrates Faith, Dance and Fellowship and is the largest gathering of Greek Orthodox Youth in America, expected to surpass 3,000 people in attendance.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Feb. 12-23, 2015

02/10/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopsschedule02102015-en

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Feb. 8-23, 2015

02/06/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-02-06-2014

Applications for the Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship for 2015-16

02/06/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/trakatelisfellow-02062014
he Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship Fund applications for the 2015-2016 academic year are now available from the Chancellor’s Office of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

2015-2016 Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships Available

02/04/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/scholarshipapps-02042015
Applications and instructions for three scholarships administered by the Department of Philanthropy of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America are available for awards to be made for the 2015-2016 academic year.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of St. Photios and Saint Photios National Shrine Day - February 6, 2015

02/03/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/photiosencyclical2015
On this blessed Feast of Saint Photios, we offer our gratitude and support for our beloved Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine in St. Augustine, Florida. For almost four decades, our National Shrine as been a place that honors the earliest roots of our Greek American experience, affirms the value of this experience and the role of our Hellenic heritage in this country, and offers a beautiful witness of the power and grace of our Orthodox faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Three Hierarchs and Greek Letters Day

01/26/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthreehierarchs2015
On this blessed Feast of the Three Hierarchs, we give thanks to God for the beautiful and faithful witness of Saints Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom. Venerated on this day as great Teachers and Theologians, we also recognize them as representative of many great Saints of the Church who have conveyed truth, communicated divine wisdom, and offered an inspiring witness of the Gospel of love. For the depth of their teaching and their ardent defense of the faith, our hymns call all people to a universal celebration on this day.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 24 – Feb. 1, 2015

01/23/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/adschedule-01-23-2014

Ionian Village Announces Summer 2015 Financial Aid Travel Grants by FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism

01/21/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/ionianvillagefaith-01212015
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America's summer travel program to Greece, Ionian Village, announces the continuation of the FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism sponsored scholarships. Now in its ninth consecutive year these full and partial financial aid grants will be awarded to those participants in the summer camps program in Greece who qualify for need-based financial aid.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 15-25, 2015

01/13/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopsschedule011312015-en

2015 Archdiocesan Yearbook Now Available Online

01/09/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/2015yearbookannounce
The 2015 Yearbook of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is now available online at www.goarch.org/archdiocese/yearbook. The Yearbook can also be downloaded from the website as a pdf and used as a digital book on tablets, smart phones and other digital reading devices.

Schedule of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios for Jan. 10-20, 2015

01/09/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/archbishopsschedule010912015-en
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Wisdom of the Fathers

Moses... was himself saved by means of wood and water before the Law was given, when he was exposed to the Nile's currents, hidden away in an Ark (Exod. 2:3-10). And by means of wood and water he saved the people of Israel, revealing the Cross by the wood, Holy Baptism by water (Exod. 14:15-31). Paul, who had looked upon the mysteries, says openly, 'They were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud' (I Cor. 10:2). He also bears witness that, even before the events concerning the sea and his staff, Moses willingly endured Christ's Cross, 'Esteeming', he says, 'the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt' (Heb. 11:26). For the Cross is the reproach of Christ from the standpoint of foolish men. As Paul himself says of Christ, 'He endured the cross, despising the shame' (Heb. 12:2).
St. Gregory Palamas
Homilies Vol. 1, Homily Eleven para. 14; Saint Tikhon's Seminary Press pg. 123, 14th century

Peter, when after so many miracles and such high doctrine he confessed that, "Thou art the Son of God" (Matt. xvi. 16), is called "blessed," as having received the revelation from the Father;
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century

... while Nathanael, though he said the very same thing before seeing or hearing either miracles or doctrine, had no such word addressed to him, but as though he had not said so much as he ought to have said, is brought to things greater still.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century

What can be the reason of this? It is, that Peter and Nathanael both spoke the same words, but not both with the same intention. Peter confessed Him to be "The Son of God' but as being Very God; Nathanael, as being mere man.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century

And whence does this appear? From what he said after these words; for after, "Thou art the Son of God," he adds, "Thou art the King of Israel." But the Son of God is not "King of Israel" only, but of all the world.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century

Seest thou how He leads him up by little and little from the earth, and causes him no longer to imagine Him a man merely? for One to whom Angels minister, and on whom Angels ascend and descend, how could He be man?
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 21 on John 1, 1. B#58, pp. 72, 73, 4th Century

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Saints and Feasts

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March 01

Sunday of Orthodoxy

For more than one hundred years the Church of Christ was troubled by the persecution of the Iconoclasts of evil belief, beginning in the reign of Leo the Isaurian (717-741) and ending in the reign of Theophilus (829-842). After Theophilus's death, his widow the Empress Theodora (celebrated Feb. 11), together with the Patriarch Methodius (June 14), established Orthodoxy anew. This ever-memorable Queen venerated the icon of the Mother of God in the presence of the Patriarch Methodius and the other confessors and righteous men, and openly cried out these holy words: "If anyone does not offer relative worship to the holy icons, not adoring them as though they were gods, but venerating them out of love as images of the archetype, let him be anathema." Then with common prayer and fasting during the whole first week of the Forty-day Fast, she asked God's forgiveness for her husband. After this, on the first Sunday of the Fast, she and her son, Michael the Emperor, made a procession with all the clergy and people and restored the holy icons, and again adorned the Church of Christ with them. This is the holy deed that all we the Orthodox commemorate today, and we call this radiant and venerable day the Sunday of Orthodoxy, that is, the triumph of true doctrine over heresy.

Evdokia
March 01

The Holy Righteous Martyr Eudocia the Samaritan

This Saint, who was from Heliopolis of Phoenicia (Baalbek in present-day Lebanon), was an idolater and led a licentious life. Being beautiful beyond telling, she had many lovers, and had acquired great riches. Yet brought to repentance by a monk named Germanus, and baptized by Bishop Theodotus, she distributed to the poor all her ill-gotten gains, and entered a convent, giving herself up completely to the life of asceticism. Her former lovers, enraged at her conversion, her refusal to return to her old ways, and the withering away of her beauty through the severe mortifications she practiced, betrayed her as a Christian to Vincent the Governor, and she was beheaded, according to some, under Trajan, who reigned from 98 to 117, according to others, under Hadrian, who reigned from 117 to 138.

Allsaint
March 02

Hesychius the Martyr

Holy martyr Hesychius lived during the reign of king Maximian in 302. He was the first and the leader in the royal palace and the Senate, because he was magistrianus by office. When Maximian ordered that all Christians who were royal soldiers ought to be deprived of their belts (which were a sign of their royal merit) and live as civilians and without honour, many Christians preferred to live without any outward honour due to this illegal order than to be honoured and lose their soul. St. Hesychius was numbered with these Christians as well. When the king heard this, he ordered that the saint ought to be stripped of the expensive clothes, which he used to wear, and be dressed with a shabby mantle without sleeves woven from hair and to be as disgraced and disdained as to consort with women.

When this had been carried out, the king invited him and asked him: "Aren't you ashamed, Hesychius, that you lost the honour and office of magistrianus and that you have been debased to this kind of life? Or maybe you don't know that the Christians, whose way of life you preferred, have no power to restore you to your previous great honour and office?" The saint replied: "Your honour, o king, is temporary but the honour and glory which Christ gives is eternal and without end." Because of these words the king got angry and ordered his men to tie a great millstone around the saint's neck and then to throw him in the middle of river Orontus, which lies in Coele Syria and which is commonly called Oronge. Thus, the blessed man received the crown of martyrdom from the Lord.

Gerasimosjordan
March 04

Gerasimus the Righteous of Jordan

This Saint, who was from Lycia in Asia Minor, lived there for many years as a hermit, and then went to Palestine. There he built the great Lavra by the Jordan River, where a lion served him with great obedience and devotion. One day the lion came looking for Gerasimus that he might feed him, but his disciples took the lion to the place where they had buried the Saint shortly before. The lion fell at the Saint's grave and, after roaring with grief, died at that very place. Saint Gerasimus reposed in 475.

Allsaint
March 06

42 Martyrs of Amorion in Phrygia

These Martyrs, men of high rank in the Roman (Byzantine) army, were taken captive when the city of Amorion in Phrygia fell to the Moslem Arabs in 838, during the reign of Theophilus the Iconoclast. Among them were Aetius and Melissenus, the generals; Theodore, the chief of the imperial ceremonial bodyguard; Craterus, the eunuch; Callistus, Constantine, Bassoes, and Theophilius, who were military officials; and certain others who held important positions. Because of their experience in war and their virtue, the Moslems did not slay them, but tried by all means to convert them to Islam and have them to fight in their own campaigns. They kept the holy Martyrs shut up in a dark dungeon in the city of Samarra in Syria, threatening and abusing them, making promises of glorious rank and magnificent riches, keeping them in hunger, oppression, and darkness, not for a few weeks, or a few months, but for seven full years. Finally, unable to break the courage and faith of their captives, they beheaded them in the year 845.
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Message from Archbishop Demetrios

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Holy and Great Lent 2015

02/20/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicallent2015
In the hymns and services of the Triodion period and at the entrance of this holy season of Great Lent, we are called to repentance. We are invited to come before God in the humility of the Publican. We are beckoned to return to His dwelling and His compassionate embrace as the Prodigal Son. We are confronted with the causes of our separation from God and our need for His great mercy. It is truly a time of repentance as we prepare to commemorate and contemplate all that has been done for us through Christ our Lord.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of St. Photios and Saint Photios National Shrine Day - February 6, 2015

02/03/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/photiosencyclical2015
On this blessed Feast of Saint Photios, we offer our gratitude and support for our beloved Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine in St. Augustine, Florida. For almost four decades, our National Shrine as been a place that honors the earliest roots of our Greek American experience, affirms the value of this experience and the role of our Hellenic heritage in this country, and offers a beautiful witness of the power and grace of our Orthodox faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of Three Hierarchs and Greek Letters Day

01/26/2015

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthreehierarchs2015
On this blessed Feast of the Three Hierarchs, we give thanks to God for the beautiful and faithful witness of Saints Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom. Venerated on this day as great Teachers and Theologians, we also recognize them as representative of many great Saints of the Church who have conveyed truth, communicated divine wisdom, and offered an inspiring witness of the Gospel of love. For the depth of their teaching and their ardent defense of the faith, our hymns call all people to a universal celebration on this day.

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

12/29/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/january1encyclical2015
On this blessed Feast of Saint Basil and the beginning of the New Year, our honored tradition is to offer prayers and support for the sacred ministry of our beloved Saint Basil Academy. For seventy years this institution of our Holy Archdiocese has offered the love of Christ, the comfort of His presence, and the healing power of faith to children, youth, and families in need. Serving Orthodox children from throughout the United States, Saint Basil Academy continues to provide a caring and spiritual environment where they are able to grow, learn, and achieve.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Nativity 2014

12/16/2014

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

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Thanksgiving Day 2014

11/20/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalthanksgiving2014
These foundations of Thanksgiving Day, and its place within the history and life of this nation as a regular observance have made this a holiday shared by many as well as a time for families to gather in fellowship and gratitude. The focus on giving thanks to God, the attitude of gratefulness for the blessings in our lives, and the traditions centered upon the family resonate with our emphasis on the family as a dwelling of Christ and a witness of His Gospel.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Archangels - November 8, 2014

11/05/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalarchangels2014
The blessed ministry of the angels is also reflected in the quality of care and compassionate service offered by our beloved Saint Michael’s Home. On this feast we recognize the faithful service of the trustees, directors, and staff, affirming that in a sacred environment, filled with the presence of God, they are being faithful to His command to offer comfort, love, and healing.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Holy Unmercenaries - November 1, 2014

10/28/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/unmercenariesencyclical2014
We are led in this effort by our National Ladies Philoptochos Society, and on Sunday, November 2, local chapters throughout our Holy Archdiocese will have a special offering for these ministries. I ask that you contribute generously to assist the work of our beloved Ecumenical Patriarchate at a time when critical needs there and throughout the Middle East are growing. As we are witnessing, long established ministries are challenged for resources as new humanitarian crises and desperate pleas for assistance are growing.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for OXI Day - October 28, 2014

10/21/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicaloxiday2014
As we commemorate OXI Day on October 28 and remember the valiant stand of the people of Greece in 1940 against the advancement of the forces of Fascism, we are aware that struggles for freedom and peace and against tyranny are very much a part of our modern world. Just as some of us and most certainly our fathers and mothers saw and experienced the brutality and inhumane actions of an occupying force, so too we are witnesses today of persecution, violence, and death.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for National Leadership 100 Sunday - October 26, 2014

10/09/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclialleadership1002014
On this Sunday, October 26, the Feast of Saint Demetrios and following the Feast of Saint Iakovos on October 23, we give thanks to God for the steadfast and abounding labor of the members of Leadership 100 and celebrate the great accomplishments of the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund, as its celebration of its 30th Anniversary comes to a close.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross

09/10/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/encyclicalcross2014
We lift up the Cross because while it was used as an instrument of torture and indignity, it brought honor and glory to God. It was used as a means of ending life, but it became entrance to eternity. It was used as a violent weapon, but for believers it became a weapon of true peace. The Cross, a symbol of suffering and defeat, through Christ it became a symbol of hope and victory. Instead of death, our Lord through the Cross brought us life and abundance of life.

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

08/27/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/indictionencyclical2014
As we commemorate this Feast of the Indiction, the beginning of the new ecclesiastical year, we ask our great and merciful God to “bless the crown of this year which His goodness has allowed us to begin” (Hymn of Orthros). It is His goodness and grace that has brought us to the beginning of one more ecclesiastical year and to another blessed cycle of the feasts and observances of our Holy Orthodox Faith. In anticipation of the marvelous and wonderful things our Lord will accomplish in our lives, parishes, and families, we look forward to the blessings that will come through our worship, prayer, and service.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos - August 15, 2014

08/11/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/dormitionencyclical2014
We commemorate this blessed Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, honoring and celebrating her faith in God and the witness of the miraculous power of grace in her life through her willing obedience to His will. As a result of the amazing level of personal holiness and the abundance of grace, the Theotokos offers us a superb example of a relationship with God and a deep connection with Him that is essential for our lives and the sacred institution of the family.

Archbishop Demetrios calls for prayers for the Christians in the Middle East

07/29/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/call-for-prayer-middleeast-07292014
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, For decades, the region considered a cradle of civilization and the birthplace of Christianity has become an arena of violence, resulting in the loss of countless lives. While the source of violence has varied in each instance, what is consistent in every case is that the blood of innocent victims has saturated the Middle East. This is especially true of Christians, who have endured unimaginable suffering because of their faith.

Encyclical of Archbishop Demetrios for Independence Day - July 4, 2014

06/27/2014

http://www.goarch.org/news/archiepiscopal4thjuly2014encyclical-en
On this Independence Day we offer thanksgiving and praise to God for the freedom we have as human beings created in His divine image and as citizens of a nation that values, protects and promotes freedom as essential to human life, well-being, and potential. As Orthodox Christians we know and affirm that God is the source of our freedom because He is the absolutely Free and the Creator of genuine freedom.
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Parish News and Events

 PARISH NEWS AND EVENTS

Coffee Fellowship:

Today’s Coffee Fellowship is hosted by the Assumption Community.  Please join us in Plato Hall to enjoy fellowship.

 Sunday Church School:

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

A Reflection For Great Lent

Being Separate in a Connected World

Fr. Christopher Makiej

Beloved in Christ, we have to see ourselves as being different than the world around us!  As Christians we are called to be “in the world, but not of the world.” (John 15:19).  The Scripture says “come out and be separate…..” (2 Cor. 6:17)

Yet this can be very difficult in a world that pressures us to conform to its ways and to be connected to it at all times. We live in this age of the 24hr news cycle, which most of the time is not really “news,” but entertainment, shock factor, blog/twitter commentary of usually trivial information.  We live in the age of text, twitter, snap chat, Facebook, etc., etc. and we’re pressured to feel we have to be connected constantly or we’ll miss something.

And yes, we are missing something, Jesus, and relationship with Him.  We’re missing quietness, prayer, stillness, reflection.  And instead, we’ve become impersonal, impatient, addicted, and even nervous if we don’t have our iPhone “on us” at all times.  Is this human advancement?  Is this progress of civilization?

Simply because Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs say this is the way we should live, think, interact, then must it be so?   Who are they anyway - Prophets, Saints?  Meanwhile, like the national heroin epidemic, we have the smart phone/screen addiction epidemic.  Yet, people are in denial as their texting thumbs ache from carpal tunnel.  Is all this natural?  We’re all high on information overload and our minds are not wired to handle it.

In his book, ‘The Shallows’, author Nicholas Carr explores the impact that our perpetual internet connection is having on the way we think.  Numerous studies point to the same conclusion, he writes:  “When we go online, we enter an environment that promotes cursory reading, hurried and distracted thinking, and superficial learning.  We’ve grown quite adept at scanning and skimming, but what we are losing is our capacity for concentration, contemplation and reflection.”

Yes, we need the technology to function, but how much have we allowed it to control us?  Are we able to take breaks, step away and be separate – and make a connection with God without a screen in front of us?

GREAT LENT…….now more than ever, Lent is a great way to feel that separation during these 40 days of prayer and fasting; to feel that things are different; to slow down, put the phone aside, and be within ourselves and in God’s presence.

Beloved, don’t let trendy modern gadgetry rule and ruin your life!  Use moderation and self-discipline.  Take breaks from your home/office computer and smart phone.  Get some exercise; take a walk; communicate face to face with your spouse and children; come to church more often to pray and get connected with the “spiritual network,” not just the social network.  Rather than constantly gaze at the icon apps on your computer screen at home, come to Sunday Liturgies and the Lenten services and gaze at the Iconostasion icon screen and enter into true connection and real prayer.

I certainly realize the importance of networking and messaging, etc.  But I also believe that as modern Orthodox Christians, we have a responsibility, whether it’s through banners on our texts, tweets, emails, websites, etc,, to not only spread the truth of Christ and the Gospel, but to communicate the message to use less technology, in order to remind people to take significant breaks from “the screen.”

Less is more.  Less screen means more worship time; it means more time alone reading the Bible, in prayer, in reflection, without all the beeps and buzzing.  It means more quality family time, more time in communication and interaction with your spouse; more real conversations and human interaction with real people; more eyes off the screen and contemplating the beauty of nature and God’s presence in all things with our natural eyes.

Do not conform to this world, but be transformed (Romans 12:2).  Social media has a highly addictive and time consuming effect which can negatively affect our marriages, families and relationships.  Therefore we should not feel pressured to conform to all the jinglism of the technology lingo.  Certainly it’s fine to do so in moderation, but I submit that it’s also ok if you do not choose to like us or friend us or follow us….and it doesn’t mean that you’re not hip or cool. And, though it may be a bit extreme, I declare it’s also ok if you want to throw your phone out the window and say enough!

I believe that we are way beyond society simply “adjusting” to the new technology, as we have in the past to the advent of radio, television or the remote control.  We’re in a spiritual and contemplative free fall.  Just google “screen addiction” and read for yourself.

I also think it’s fascinating that as we “advance” with the larger HD 3D TV’s and ever more vivid images of “the screen,” we have very little that is good (noble, just, pure, lovely) to display (Philippians 4:8).  Most modern movies and TV shows lack creativity, art, joy and beauty.  Without God, is that not the result?  We have fantastic screens, but terrible entertainment.  It seems modern man has lost his soul as fast as the speed of technology advances.

And so therefore, beloved in Christ, during this beautiful Lenten season, may we “consider our ways.” (Haggai 1:7).  Let us come out and be separate - not conforming to the world, but transforming the times.  And let us consider some serious fasting from the gadgetry that controls us, and focus on disconnecting…so that we may truly connect, and commit ourselves, and one another, and our whole life, to Christ our God.

2015 Stewardship:

We thank and are appreciative to all stewards who have pledged and remained committed to our beloved Parish of Panagia.  Through your continued and loving support, the Parish Council has been able to serve as caretakers and steward the needs and priorities that face our Church.  We ask that you complete your 2015 pledge card for the New Year at your earliest convenience and return it to the church office.  If you have a balance on your 2014 commitment, you may submit that as well.

Lenten/Easter Needs:

We are in need of donors for the flowers that are used during the Lenten/Easter Season.  Should you wish to offer a donation for one of the items below, please call the Church Office - 773-626-3114

 Palm Leaves for Palm Sunday April 5th- $1,060.00

Icon for The Salutations to the Theotokos (5 Friday’s)
February 27th, March 6th, March 13th, March 20th, March 27th - $175 per week

Jonquils for the Sunday of the Veneration of the Cross - $245

Icon for Bridegroom Services, April 5th, April 6th, April 7th and April 8th - $175

Large Icon of the Last Supper – April 8th - $400

3 Wreaths for Holy Thursday, April 9th - $325 each or $975

Rose Pedals, Holy Friday, April 10th - DONATED

Carnations, Holy Friday, April 10th - $500

Lavaro, April 11th and April 12th - $200

Easter Lilies for Holy Pascha, April 11th and April 12th - $624

  Dates to Remember:

PRE-LENTEN TRIODION PERIOD THROUGH
PASCHA AND BRIGHT WEEK 2015

 Sunday, March 1st
First Sunday of the Great Lent
Sunday of Orthodoxy
6:30 p.m. Sunday of Orthodoxy Great Vespers Service at
St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church
1220 South 60th Court, Cicero, IL

 Monday, March 2nd
6:00 p.m.  Great Compline Service
7:00 p.m.  Adult Bible Study

 Wednesday, March 4th
9:00 a.m.  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

 Friday, March 6th
7:00 p.m.  Second Salutations to the Theotokos

 Sunday, March 8th
Second Sunday of Great Lent
Feast Day of Saint Gregory of Palamas

Monday, March 9th
6:00 p.m.  Great Compline Service
7:00 p.m.  Adult Bible Study

 Wednesday, March 11th
6:00 p.m.  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

Thursday, March 12th
7:00 p.m. Assumption Book Club

 Friday, March 13th
7:00 p.m. Third Salutations to the Theotokos

 Saturday, March 14th
9:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m.   Annual Lenten Youth Retreat

Sunday, March 15th
Third Sunday of Great Lent
Veneration of the Holy Cross
Parish Oratorical Festival – Following Service
7:00 pm - Solemn Vespers
St. Sophia Church, Elgin, IL
Rev. Fr. Peter Balkas, Preacher

Monday, March 16th
6:00 p.m.  Great Compline Service

Wednesday, March 18th
9:00 a.m.  Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

Thursday, March 19th
10:30 am - Philoptochos General Meeting and Lenten Lecture
in St. Catherine's Meeting Room

Friday, March 20th
7:00 p.m. Fourth Salutations to the Theotokos

Sunday, March 22nd
Fourth Sunday of Great Lent
Saint John Climacos
7:00 pm - Solemn Vespers
St. Demetrios Church, Hammon, IN
Rev. Fr. Constantine Aliferakis, Preacher

Monday, March 23rd
6:00 p.m.  Great Compline Service

Wednesday, March 25th
Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos
8:30 a.m.  Orthros
9:30 a.m.  Divine Liturgy Main Church
(No Presanctified Liturgy in the evening)

Friday, March 27th
7:00 p.m.  Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos

Saturday, March 28th
Philoptochos - Baking Day for the
Easter Bake Sale in Plato Hall

Sunday, March 29th
Fifth Sunday of Great Lent
Saint Mary of Egypt
7:00 pm - Solemn Vespers
St. Basil Church, Chicago, IL
Rev. Fr. Chris Mihalopoulos, Preacher

 Saturday, April 4th
Saturday of the Resurrection of Lazarus
8:30 a.m.  Orthros
9:30 a.m.  Divine Liturgy Main Church

Sunday, April 5th
Palm Sunday
Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon following Services
7:00 p.m.  Service of the Bridegroom

Monday, April 6th
Great and Holy Monday
7:00 p.m.  Service of the Bridegroom

Tuesday, April 7th
Great and Holy Tuesday
7:00 p.m.  Service of the Bridegroom

Wednesday, April 8th
Great and Holy Wednesday
2:30 p.m.  Sacrament of Holy Unction
7:00 p.m.  Service of the Bridegroom
Holy Unction will be distributed after the Service.

 Thursday, April 9th
Great and Holy Thursday
9:00 a.m.  Vespers and Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil
7:00 p.m.  The Holy Passion of Our Lord

 Friday, April 10th
Great and Holy Friday
9:00 a.m.  Reading of the Royal Hours
3:00 p.m.  Removal of Christ from the Cross
7:00 p.m.  Service of the Lamentations

Saturday, April 11th
Great and Holy Saturday
9:00 a.m.  Vespers and Divine Liturgy
11:00 p.m.  Canon of the Holy Resurrection

 Sunday, April 12th
HOLY PASCHA
12:00 Midnight Resurrection Service & Divine Liturgy
11:00 a.m. Vespers of the Feast of Agape

Friday, April 17th
Friday of Bright Week
Feast of The Life-giving Fountain
8:30 a.m.  Orthros
9:30 a.m.  Divine Liturgy

Wednesday, April 23rd
Feast Day of Saint George the Great Martyr
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Easter Lambades:

If you need Lambades for your children or Godchildren please stop by and check out the Lambades that the Ladies of the Assumption Philoptochos will be selling every Sunday from March 1st up to Easter during the Coffee Fellowship.

Children’s Winter Retreat:

The Metropolis of Chicago is hosting a winter retreat titled “Great Escape Winter Camp” for children grades 6 through 12.  The retreat, which will take place at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, will begin on Friday March 6th to Sunday March 8th. The fee for the camp is $155.00. Children will be transported via bus and they will be picked up and dropped off at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Des Plaines.  For more information please contact Deacon Chris Avromopoulos at cpavro@aol.com.

2015 Celebration of Books:

Holy Apostles is excited to announce their annual Celebration of Books from Sunday, March 8th through Sunday, March 15th.  This year the keynote speaker on all three nights will be Fr. Maximos.

Finding God in Scripture and Creation:
The Theology of St. Maximos the Confessor

Sunday, March 8th
6:30 pm Vespers; 8:00 pm Presentation, “The Search for Truth”

Monday, March 9th
6:30 pm Compline; 8:00 pm Presentation, “The Book of Nature”

Tuesday, March 10th
6:30 pm Compline; 8:00 pm Presentation, “The World of Scripture”

Wednesday, March 11th through Sunday, March 15th Holy Apostles Church is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and all are welcome to browse the books and icons in their bookstore.

Thinking of Converting to Orthodoxy?

If you, a family member, or friend, who are not of the Orthodox Faith, and may be considering conversion to Orthodoxy, please contact the Church Office (773.626.3114) or speak with Fr. Timothy.  A Confirmation/Chrismation Class is being formed to prepare those who have expressed interest to convert to Orthodoxy.  This also includes couples who are planning to be married in the Orthodox Church in the near future, and where one of the couple is contemplating converting to the Orthodox Faith.  We plan to begin this process in late February or the first week in March.

AHEPA 13th District Scholarships Available:

Applications for the Order of AHEPA’s 13th District Scholarship Awards are now being accepted.  Eligible students must be high school seniors, have a minimum four-year cumulative grade point average of ‘B’, and be either of Greek heritage or have a parent that is an active member of the AHEPA family.  For further info, or to obtain an application, please call the Church Office (773.626.3114).  Deadline for submitting application is March 15, 2015.

George Mougolias Memorial Scholarship:

The GMMF Scholarship Program was created to give the Orthodox youth in the community the opportunity to further their academic studies.  The awards are based on need and their involvement in the Orthodox community and their academic achievements.  For further information, or to obtain an application, please call the Church Office (773.626.3114).  Deadline for submitting application is April 15th.

Thank you from Sunday Church School:

Our sincerest thanks to all that lovingly donated to our most recent 90 Acts of Kindness fundraiser. Special thanks to John Szubert for all his assistance in coordinating it. Whether your intention was to see Fr. Timothy go down the hill at Villa Olivia in a tube or to help our Acts of Kindness we thank you! With your generous support we raised a little over $5,400 in less than a month! THANK YOU!!

All money raised will be used for our remaining 43 Acts of Kindness. Some examples of how the funds will be used are to buy supplies for the starter kits for homeless veterans, for the sack lunches we will be preparing for Night Ministry, care packages for cancer patients and donations to the Multiple Sclerosis society just to name a few. Please check our recently updated website under the news/events tab for more information and our weekly bulletin. 

Sunday Church School 90 Acts of Kindness Challenge:

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

Act of Kindness #1-47 Completed – Please visit our website or our bulletin board to see who benefited from these Acts of Kindness

Act of Kindness #48 – We will be baking/delivering cookies and thank you cards to the Chicago Police Dept.15th District-Austin (Dept. responsible for serving our church) 5701 W. Madison, Chicago.

Act of Kindness #49 - On Saturday, March 7th from 4:30-7pm we will be serving a meal to the homeless at Marquard Center 1645 W. LeMoyne, Chicago. All Volunteer spots have been filled, THANK YOU!

Act of Kindness #50 – Students will be making craft kits (plastic bags filled with an easy craft a child/teen can do as they wait to visit with a doctor) for patients at St. Jude’s Research Hospital. (grades 7/8 & HS will be assembling)

Act of Kindness #51 – We will be making quilts for the SEWonderful Quilts. SEWonderful Quilts recycles designer fabric into one-of-a-kind quilts which are gifted, free of charge, to children (0-21yrs) suffering with life-threatening illnesses, as well as children who have been sexually abused

Act of Kindness #52 – We will be collecting broken, used crayons that will be melted down and made into larger sized crayons for special needs children. All grades will sort and package.

Act of Kindness #53 – We will be collecting used/preowned Nintendo DS, Playstation, Wii, and any other video games as well as any equipment. These will be donated to the Toybox Connection for use in foster care and State of IL operated group homes.

Act of Kindness #54 – We will be making “starter kits” for homeless veterans that will be transitioning into a home for the first time. Starter kits include items such as dish towels, pot holders, kitchen sponges, cleaning supplies. Donations of these items are welcomed.

Act of Kindness #55 – Children will be decorating paper lunch bags and filling them with small toiletries items for use at Fisher House. Fisher House provides temporary housing for families of veterans receiving care at Hines VA Hospital. www.fisherhouse.org

Act of Kindness #56 – We will be assembling hygiene kits for IOCC. Donations of bars of soap, combs, washcloths, and hand towels are welcomed. www.iocc.org

Act of Kindness #57 – We will be collecting children sized shoes for Share Your Soles. www.shareyoursoles.org

Act of Kindness #58 – We will be making Memorial Day cards for veterans to be given at the Jesse Brown VA Home.

Act of Kindness #59 – On April 19th we will be making sack lunches for The Night Ministry and will have the opportunity to distribute them to the area homeless from 4pm-5pm Volunteers ages 11 and up needed. Please see Christina Arvanites to volunteer

Act of Kindness #60 – On April 25th from 10am-12 we will be doing a craft or game with  disabled children of Marklund Home in Bloomingdale. Volunteers ages 9 and up needed. Please see Christina Arvanites to volunteer

Act of Kindness #61 – On Sunday, April 26th students will have a jump rope contest and raise money for the Multiple Sclerosis Society, we will also be wearing orange to raise awareness and support this organization.

Act of Kindness #62 – Our Ladies Philoptochos and Church School students have joined together to support a benefit for little 5 year Chris Ellis who is battling Stage 4 neuroblastoma. Please see any Ladies Philoptochos member or SCS student to purchase a $10 raffle ticket.

There’s so much more kindness to spread and our Sunday Church School is just the right group to do it!! Our goal is 90 by our Anniversary Dinner on October 18, 2015! You can watch our progress as we fill in a “thermometer” that is displayed in St. Catherine’s Meeting room. *Do you have a suggestion for an Act of Kindness or have an organization that you would like to see benefit? Please let Mrs. Christina Arvanites know.

Church School on FACEBOOK:

Our Sunday Church School has created a FACEBOOK page. Like our page: Assumption Sunday Church School! See our progress on our Acts of Kindness Challenge, keep up to date on upcoming events and view photos from recent events.

Next Orthodox Adult Bible Study Monday, March 2, 2015:

Our Adult Bible Study will meet on Monday evening, March 2, 2015, at 7:00 pm, in Saint Catherine’s Meeting Room.  We have moved into study of another Epistle written by Saint Paul the Apostle, the Epistle to the Philippians. This class is open to all, and it is hoped that you will avail yourself to the opportunity to study the Bible in-depth.  All you need to bring along with you is your Bible.  For further information and/or questions, please see Father Timothy.

Panagia’s Monthly Book Club:

Our Monthly Book Club will meet on Thursday, March 12, 2015, at 7:00 pm at the Pan Arcadian House, 880 North York Road, Elmhurst, IL.  The discussion will center on the Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives  by Elder Thaddeus.  The Monthly Book Club meets the 2nd Thursday of each month.  If you would like to join the group or want further information, please contact Father Athanasios.

 Establishment of Assumption Prayer Ministry:

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

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

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

  Bookstore:

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

Coffee Fellowship Hosts Needed:

Have you considered selecting a day to host the Weekly Fellowship Hour following Worship Services on a specific Sunday in 2015?  You might want to celebrate a family event, a memorial, or just want to share time with the Church family.  Please call the Church Office (773.626.3114) to book a date and for more information.  Available dates for the first half of 2015 are:

March 15     May 17        June 21         July 19       Aug. 23        Sept. 20

March 29     May 24        June 28         Aug. 2        Aug. 30        Oct. 4

April 26        May 31        July 5            Aug. 9        Sept. 6         Oct. 18

May 3          June 14       July 12         Aug. 16        Sept. 13       Nov. 1

Prosfora Bakers Needed:

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

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

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

Cemetery Graves Update:

The Parish Council announces that effectively immediately, prices for graves at Elmwood Cemetery will be the following:  $1,995.00 (members), and $2,295.00 (non-members).  Our Parish has only forty-six (46) graves remaining in the Panagia section, and the Church pricing is about 50% less than the graves that are being sold at Elmwood.  For more information, please call the Church office and speak with Gail (773.626.3114).

Proper Church Etiquette:

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

Holy Communion Announcement:

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

We Need Your E-mail Address:

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

Website News:    www.assumptionchicago.org

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

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

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

Ushers:

 

Ted Pappas, Rose Marie Stewart, James Lakerdas, Voula Spyropoulos, Tom Collis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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