Dear Parishioners of the Assumption,

There are certain moments in one’s life that truly define the direction in which one proceeds. These moments change one’s outlook from that point forward. A defining moment may or may not lead to a change in direction, but it always creates a new reality. It cannot be ignored, even if it is temporarily set aside.

In one’s natural life, there are a few defining moments that are obvious. Some are truly reasons for rejoicing – like one’s wedding day or the birth or a child; some are heartbreaking, like the death of a family member or friend; and some cause us to truly see the world differently, like when we realize our parents are human just as are we.

In the Faith, there are also moments that are defining. For the Faith as a whole, there are many – a few are the incarnation of Christ, the Resurrection and Pentecost (although there are many that are not listed).  For the Faith in America, the establishment of the Archdiocese in 1922, the declaration that its primary reason for existence is the Faith (which wasn’t declared until some point in the 1960’s due to the fraternal ethic nature of the laity) and the creation of Metropolises in 1996.

Our Parish in Louisville has had a few significant defining moments: its establishment in 1925, the purchase of our current property, and the building of our new church in 2009. Of course, there are many other defining moments that are more categorical and have led to the growth that we now enjoy.  Many of these defining periods in our history didn’t occur naturally, but were the result of key individuals of vision who were able to lead the parish forward.  There are so many people that created the foundation of what we enjoy today as a parish, so many former priests, parish council members, festival chairs and many others that built the Assumption.

Today, we are at such a defining moment.  We are pushing against the boundaries of how we are able to minister.  We have activity that we cannot service.  We have youth that have inadequate places for Sunday School, Greek School, Dance and fellowship.  We have no kitchen.  We are immensely grateful for what we have and for those who made it a reality, but we now need to add onto what we inherited, so that we may continue strongly into the future.  

2020 is the year.  If we act as the moment is requiring and urging us to act, we will be able to look back at it and see how our action contributed to the continued growth and thriving of this community, and will recognize that we helped realize this defining moment.

The capital campaign committee, building committee, architect and I are working hard to ensure that all that has been built by those who came before us will continue and progress.  Let the vision of the future infect you – help the faith to be a great beacon in Louisville!  Do the following: come to the December 14th event, make a sacrificial pledge, talk to and inspire others, herald the vision of the great future of the Assumption, be part a part of something greater than yourself!

In His Service, I faithful remain your humble servant,

Fr. Jon

Proistamenos

“Attract, Serve, Illuminate”

If you would like to donate a poinsettia to adorn the Church during the Christmas Season, please see the flyer in the Beacon or the Sunday Bulletin (at the Candle Stand) and contact the Church Office with your offering.

On Saturday, January 11, 2020, the Waters of the Ohio River will be sanctified through the Prayers of our Orthodox Faithful and by the submerging of the Holy Cross in the River. In this way, we sanctify the water of our community and everywhere that it runs.

Come to the Captain’s Quarters in Prospect, KY, and witness your faith to the whole world.

The Blessing will take place at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to participate in this once a year Epiphany Celebration so that as His Blessings are given to us that through us they may be given to the whole world.

On Sunday, January 12, 2020, the Blessed Vasilopita will be cut and distributed to the ministries of our Church and Parish. Through our faith, and the actions born of it, we ask for the Blessings of the Lord upon all of our ministries that do His divine will.

Following the Vasilopita celebration, the Philoptochos members will give the Parish the opportunity to display faith and generosity as Vasilopita is auctioned to aid their philanthropic activities. Our Philoptochos Chapter truly works to aid those who are in need. Let us come and support them as they do His work.

Bible Study is an opportunity for us to apply the Scriptures to our everyday lives. The Bible is the “Good News” that enriches our faith and deepens our understanding of every issue that we face. This can only be done through obtaining the mind of the Holy Fathers. Let the scripture come alive in your life today!!!

The Wednesday Orthodox Bible Study will meet on Wednesday Evenings from 6:00pm-7:30pm (please check calendar to verify times). The Sunday Orthodox Bible Study will meet after Divine Liturgy from 12:00 noon-1:00pm (please check calendar to verify times). Make a commitment to learning His Word!

Did you know that the Assumption recycles? There is a blue recycling bin in the social hall and another in the classrooms area. Please recycle clean and empty plastic, glass and metal bottles/containers as well as paper. Dirty plates, styrofoam, and plastic bags are not recyclable.

Are you already Kroger shopper?
Your current shopping could be benefitting the Assumption!

Kroger Community Rewards® makes fund-raising easy...all you have to do is shop at Kroger and swipe your Plus Card!

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TO USE THE KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM:

· Go to www.krogercommunityrewards.com and register your Kroger Plus Card (if you are already registered, click “Sign In” instead of “Create an Account.”)

· Sign up for a Kroger Rewards Account by entering zip code, clicking on favorite store, entering your email address and creating a password, agreeing to the terms and conditions

· You will then get a message to check your email inbox and click on the link within the body of the email.

· Click on My Account and use your email address and password to proceed to the next step.

· Click on Edit Kroger Community Rewards information and input your Kroger Plus card number. If you use your phone number at the register instead of a card, call 800-576-4377, select option 4 to get your Kroger Plus card number.

· Update or confirm your information.

· Enter “Assumption” or our NPO number of AT066 and select us from the list and click on confirm.

· If enrollment is complete, you will see Assumption’s name on the right side of your information page.

· That’s it!!! Use your registered Kroger Plus card or phone number at the register and our parish benefits!!!

By registering online, coupons can be electronically attached to your Plus Card. Not only do you help the Church, but you save money. Talk to everyone you know about registering to benefit our parish!!!