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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2022-03-20
Bulletin Contents
Saints and Feasts
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Hymns of the Day
Message from Fr. Jon
Upcoming Events
Assumption Parish Calendar
Allsaint
Organization Icon
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (502) 425-7775
  • Street Address:

  • 930 Ormsby Lane

  • Louisville, KY 40242

Contact Information

Presiding Priest Rev. Fr. Jon S. Boukis


priest@agoclou.org | (502) 425-7775

Services Schedule

Orthros - Sunday 8:450am

Divine Liturgy- Sunday 10:00am

Past Bulletins


Saints and Feasts

Allsaint
March 20

Photini the Samaritan Woman

Saint Photini lived in 1st century Palestine and was the woman that Christ met at Jacob's Well in Samaria as recorded in the Gospel according to John (4:4-26). After her encounter with Christ, she and her whole family were baptized by the Apostles and became evangelists of the early Church. Photini and her children eventually were summoned before the emperor Nero and instructed to renounce their faith in Christ. They refused to do so, accepting rather to suffer various tortures. After many efforts to force her to surrender to idolatry, the emperor ordered that she be thrown down a well. Photini gave up her life in the year 66.

St. Photini is commemorated on three occasions during the year: February 26 (Greek tradition), March 20 (Slavic tradition), and the Sunday of the Samaritan Woman on the 5th Sunday of Pascha.

Allsaint
March 20

Cuthbert the Wonderworker, Bishop of Lindisfarne

Saint Cuthbert was born in Britain about the year 635, and became a monk in his youth at the monastery of Melrose by the River Tweed. After many years of struggle as a true priest of Christ, in the service both of his own brethren and of the neglected Christians of isolated country villages, he became a solitary on Farne Island in 676. After eight years as a hermit, he was constrained to leave his quiet to become Bishop of Lindisfarne, in which office he served for almost two years. He returned to his hermitage two months before he reposed in peace in 687. Because of the miracles he wrought both during his life and at his tomb after his death, he is called the "Wonderworker of Britain." The whole English people honoured him, and kings were both benefactors to his shrine and suppliants of his prayers. Eleven years after his death, his holy relics were revealed to be incorrupt; when his body was translated from Lindisfarne to Durham Cathedral in August of 1104, his body was still found to be untouched by decay, giving off "an odour of sweetest fragrancy," and "from the flexibility of its joints representing a person asleep rather than dead." Finally, when the most impious Henry VIII desecrated his shrine, opening it to despoil it of its valuables, his body was again found incorrupt, and was buried in 1542. It is believed that after this the holy relics of Saint Cuthbert were hidden to preserve them from further desecration.

02_palamas2
March 20

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

This divine Father, who was from Asia Minor, was from childhood reared in the royal court of Constantinople, where he was instructed in both religious and secular wisdom. Later, while still a youth, he left the imperial court and struggled in asceticism on Mount Athos, and in the Skete at Beroea. He spent some time in Thessalonica being treated for an illness that came from his harsh manner of life. He was present in Constantinople at the Council that was convened in 1341 against Barlaam of Calabria, and at the Council of 1347 against Acindynus, who was of like mind with Barlaam; Barlaam and Acindynus claimed that the grace of God is created. At both these Councils, the Saint contended courageously for the true dogmas of the Church of Christ, teaching in particular that divine grace is not created, but is the uncreated energies of God which are poured forth throughout creation: otherwise it would be impossible, if grace were created, for man to have genuine communion with the uncreated God. In 1347 he was appointed Metropolitan of Thessalonica. He tended his flock in an apostolic manner for some twelve years, and wrote many books and treatises on the most exalted doctrines of our Faith; and having lived for a total of sixty-three years, he reposed in the Lord in 1359.

His holy relics are kept in the Cathedral of Thessalonica. A full service was composed for his feast day by the Patriarch Philotheus in 1368, when it was established that his feast be celebrated on this day. Since works without right faith avail nothing, we set Orthodoxy of faith as the foundation of all that we accomplish during the Fast, by celebrating the Triumph of Orthodoxy the Sunday before, and the great defender of the teachings of the holy Fathers today.

Allsaint
March 20

Righteous Fathers slain at the Monastery of St. Savas

The Righteous Martyrs were put to death by the barbarians during the reign of Emperor Heraclius, when Saint Modestus was Patriarch of Jerusalem (632-634).

Allsaint
March 20

Myron the New Martyr of Crete

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Sixth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Luke 24:36-53

At that time, Jesus, having risen from the dead, stood in the midst of his disciples and said to them, "Peace to you." But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? See my hands and feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit has not flesh and bones as you see that I have." And when he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them.

Then he said to them, "These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled. Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city, until you are clothed with power from on high."

Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and they returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 2nd Tone. Psalm 27.9,1.
O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.
Verse: To you, O Lord, I have cried, O my God.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 1:10-14; 2:1-3.

IN THE BEGINNING, Thou, Lord, didst found the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of thy hands; they will perish, but thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed. But thou art the same, and thy years will never end." But to what angel has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies a stool for thy feet?" Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?

Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For if the message declared by angels was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him.

Gospel Reading

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas
The Reading is from Mark 2:1-12

At that time, Jesus entered Capernaum and it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven." Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, "Why does this man speak thus? It is a blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, "Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise, take up your pallet and walk? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins"-he said to the paralytic-"I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home." And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 2nd Tone

Angelic powers appeared at Your tomb, and those guarding it became like dead, and at Your grave Mary was standing, seeking Your most pure body. You plundered Hades, not being tempted by it; You encountered the virgin, granting life. O Lord, who rose from the dead, glory to You!

Apolytikion for Sun. of St. Gregory Palamas in the Plagal 4th Tone

Light of Orthdoxy, pillar and teacher of the Church, adornment of monastics, invincible champion of theologians, O Gregory thou wonderworker, boast of Thessalonica, herald of grace: ever pray that our souls be saved.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal 4th Tone

To you, defender and commander in a time of war, I, your City, offer gratitude for victory, for you rescued me from suff'rings, O Theotokos. Since the power you possess is unassailable, from all dangers I entreat you to deliver me, that I may cry to you: Rejoice, O unwedded Bride.
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Message from Fr. Jon

Fr-jon-4

Pastoral Message from the March Beacon

03/01/2022

My Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Often, we can only visualize and make a reality what we bring to the forefront of our minds. For example, we will not notice red cars on the road unless we specifically are focused on red cars; or, as in golf, one will not hit the fairway if dwelling on the trees, water hazards or sand traps. We tend to gravitate toward what is in our minds as our priority, whether conscious or unconscious. 

In a few short days, Great and Holy Lent will be upon us. It is my hope and prayer that each of us has taken a few moments to make our Lenten journeys to Pascha a priority.  In each of the following areas, have we mapped out a sacrificial and challenging, yet achievable plan: fasting, praying, church attendance, reading, philanthropy, and silence. Whether one has or has not, there is still time.

With the Assumption being able to open up a bit more from our Covid protocols of the past few years (new protocols on page 5), we have been able to restore many options that can be incorporated into one’s plan:

  • “Transformative Christianity Webinar” as request by the Philoptochos (see page 2)
  • Lenten Services (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays) - see included calendar.
  • Sunday of Orthodoxy Pan-Orthodox Great Vespers on March 13 in Nicholasville (see page 2)
  • Parish Oratorical Festival on March 20 (see page 2)
  • St. Nektarios, “Man of God,” movie on March 21 (see page 3)
  • Bellarmine Yard Sale  to aid Guatemala (see page 3)
  • Blood Donation as requested by the Philoptochos (see page 4)
  • “Blessings in a Backpack” as requested by the Philoptochos (see page 4)

Take a moment and plan your Lenten journey in fasting, prayer and any or all of the above opportunities. With a plan, Holy Week and Pascha will much more greatly “explode” in our hearts!

A Blessed Great and Holy to all of you as we prepare for His Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection!

In Christ,

Fr. Jon


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Upcoming Events

Philoptochos Ukraine Fundraiser

03/06/2022

Dear Assumption Family,

The people of Ukraine need us!

Philoptochos is launching a fundraiser to support the Ukraine Relief Fund. This fund was established by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America in collaboration with the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC). It aims to raise $1 million for both immediate and long-term support for the Ukrainian people.

Initial IOCC work includes providing generators, fuel, and other emergency supplies. The IOCC is also coordinating with partners in Romania and Moldova who are serving refugees arriving from Ukraine. They are working with local churches to provide emergency supplies including food, water, blankets, baby food, diapers and other hygiene items.

Philoptochos will collect cash or checks on Sunday March 6 and 13 in a special “Ukraine basket” that will be located by the candle tray. Please make checks payable to “Philoptochos” with “Ukraine” in the memo line.  

You may also mail checks to Hadley Dimitropoulos at 6021 Sweetbay Dr, Crestwood, KY 40014. If you prefer to venmo her please email her at  hadley.dimitropoulos@gmail.com.

Thank you very much for your support!


Sunday of Orthodoxy PanOrthodox Great Vespers

03/13/2022

Come and celebrate the Restoration of the Icons into the Church as a united Orthodox Community of Kentucky.

Great Vespers will take place at 5 PM on March 13 at St. Athanasius (100 Lime Ln, Nicholasville, KY)!


Parish Oratorical Festival

03/27/2022

The SJC Parish Oratorical Festival will be held on Sunday, March 27, following Divine Liturgy. All are encouraged to come and be inspired by our youth.  This is a wonderful event!!!  Don’t miss it!


St. Nektarios, "Man of God" Movie!!!

03/21/2022

Dear Parishioners and Friends of the Assumption,
 
We have been given a blessed opportunity to have the biographical movie about St. Nektarios of Aegina, “Man of God,” here in Louisville for 1 night only.  I have been trying for weeks to reach the production company and distribution agent to see if it would be released in the future for us on DVD.  Unfortunately, there has been no response; so, this may be the only opportunity we will be given!
 
This is a one time showing on Monday, March 21, at 7 PM.  It will be shown at Tinseltown (off Westport Road by I-265).  I encourage all of our faithful to attend. As of February 11, Tinseltown has opened a second theater with a 7:10 PM showing!!! The 7 PM showing is almost sold out (except the first 2 rows) and the 7:10 PM showing is in an even smaller theater.  Get your tickets today!!!
 
Click on this link (https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God) and put “40241” (or Louisville, KY) in the search box.  Click on Tinseltown Louisville and get your tickets.  There are many in Louisville that will want to attend – so get your tickets today!
 
In addition, I have acquired 20 of the book “St. Nektarios, the Saint of our Century” (pictured below).  It is one of the best books that I have read and encourage you to get a copy for your family.  It is $35 per book and will be available this Sunday after Divine Liturgy.
 
In Christ,
Fr. Jon

Bellarmine Yard Sale Philanthropic Opportunity

03/26/2022

On Saturday, March 26, Bellarmine University will hold a yard sale for which proceeds will be sent to Guatemala to aid in the building of homes for those in need.  We are gathering clothing and household items at the church to aid in this worthy cause.  You may bring your items bagged on Sundays, March 6, 13 and 20.

If you have good quality used furniture or other large items, please contact Evanthia Speliotis at espeliotis@bellarmine.edu to discuss delivery, or potential pick-up.

This is a wonderful opportunity for our members that our “abundance may supply their lack” (2 Cor 8:14).  Please consider using this opportunity as part of your Lenten journey!


"Blessings in a Backpack"

09/12/2021

With the schools open to in person classes, we are happy to announce that the program sponsored by AGOC Philoptochos in partnership with Broadway Baptist Church, that supports children from Chenoweth Elementary School is back! We are collecting food for 40 less fortunate children that will be placed in their Backpacks every Friday, so they can have food over the weekend.


Your help and generosity have made this program possible over the years and is needed now more than ever! Please look for the information on what type of foods we are collecting (non-perishable individual packages, nuts free, etc). The collecting bin is in the back of the church.


If you have any questions, please contact Alice Collis at aliceccollis@gmail.com


Livestreaming Services

For the next few weeks, Livestreaming our services on Facebook will be the new normal.  It is truly important that we, as the Body of Christ, continue to pray together during these trying times.
 
You do not need to register with Facebook to watch our livestream or view the daily video postings that have been uploaded. (In order to post, “like,” or comment, you must be “on” Facebook.)  One merely needs to navigate to the page and scroll down.  Facebook will have a pop-up asking you to register, but you need not register. I do not have Facebook, nor will I register.
 
Click on this link (www.facebook.com/AGOCLou) and bookmark our page in your browser.  Faith is foundational in our lives and, when so many thinks around us are changing, it is steadfast.  I have offered thanksgiving to God that we have such great technology for our faithful to stay connected.

Orthodox Bible Study

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 Orthodox Bible Study is currenly on Summer break. Make Bible Study part of a greater commitment to the faith in the Fall.


Amazon Smile

Great News!!!  Amazon Smile will donate .5% of your purchases to the Assumption!!!
 
All you have to do is enter through the link below and shop as usual!!!
 
Don’t forget to bookmark it on all your devices!!!
 

Kroger Community Rewards®

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!!!


Parish COVID Guidelines

02/22/2022

Assumption Parish (Louisville, KY) Worship Guidelines

Revised February 22, 2022

 

Before Coming to Church, please assess your health:  If you are experiencing any symptoms of illness, please stay at home.

†  Mask protocols

  • The wearing of masks is optional and supported. The Parish Council wants every person to feel safe in the Church.
  • Although wearing a mask is not formally mandated and is a personal prerogative for anyone to wear a mask as he/she sees fit, as a church community, we want to be as caring and welcoming of everyone as we possibly can.
  • Wearing a mask is out of love and care for your fellow parishioners, so that everyone may feel safe and comfortable attending church and participating fully in our community of faith.

†  Seating

  • A section of the church will be designated for individuals who choose to social distance (masks required in this section). 
  • The remaining portion of the church will be open seating for those who do not choose to be socially distant.

†  Fellowship Hall

  • Coffee Hour will resume in the hall without restriction.
  • Sunday School will return to the classrooms.

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Assumption Parish Calendar

  • Assumption Calendar

    March 20 to March 27, 2022

    Sunday, March 20

    8:45AM Orthros

    10:00AM Divine Liturgy

    11:00AM Sunday School

    11:30AM Greek School

    Monday, March 21

    7:00PM "Man of God" Movie (St. Nektarios of Aegina)

    Wednesday, March 23

    6:00PM Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts

    Friday, March 25

    10:00AM Divine Liturgy of the Great Feast of the Annunciation

    6:00PM Salutations to the Theotokos (3rd)

    Sunday, March 27

    8:45AM Orthros

    10:00AM Divine Liturgy

    11:00AM Sunday School

    11:30AM Greek School

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