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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2022-01-30
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
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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (412)366-8700
  • Fax:
  • (412)366-8710
  • Street Address:

  • 985 Providence Blvd.

  • Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5951

Contact Information

Rev. Fr. John Touloumes, Protopresbyter
Proistamenos

fjt@HolyTrinityPgh.org | 412-366-8700

Rev. Fr. Radu Bordeianu
Assistant Priest

FrRadu@HolyTrinityPgh.org

Mary Portellos
Office Administrator

office@HolyTrinityPgh.org | 412-366-8700

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


Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Seventh Tone

By Your Cross You destroyed death and to the thief You opened paradise. You transformed the sorrow of the Myrrh-bearers, and commanded the Apostles to proclaim that You have risen from the dead, Christ our God, granting the world great mercy. (Page 53)

Apolytikion for Three Hierarchs in the First Tone

Those three magnificent luminaries of the tri-solar Godhead, who lit up the whole world with rays of divine doctrines; those mellifluent rivers of wisdom, who irrigated all creation with the waters of the knowledge of God; Basil the Great, and Gregory the Theologian, and the illustrious John, whose tongue produced golden works! Let all of us who are enamored of their words come together and sing hymns to honor them. For they are ever interceding with the Trinity on our behalf.

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.
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Saints and Feasts

3hierarc
January 30

Synaxis of The Three Hierarchs: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, & John Chrysostom

This common feast of these three teachers was instituted a little before the year 1100, during the reign of the Emperor Alexis I Comnenus, because of a dispute and strife that arose among the notable and virtuous men of that time. Some of them preferred Basil, while others preferred Gregory, and yet others preferred John Chrysostom, quarreling among themselves over which of the three was the greatest. Furthermore, each party, in order to distinguish itself from the others, assumed the name of its preferred Saint; hence, they called themselves Basilians, Gregorians, or Johannites. Desiring to bring an end to the contention, the three Saints appeared together to the saintly John Mavropous, a monk who had been ordained Bishop of Euchaita, a city of Asia Minor, they revealed to him that the glory they have at the throne of God is equal, and told him to compose a common service for the three of them, which he did with great skill and beauty. Saint John of Euchaita (celebrated Oct. 5) is also the composer of the Canon to the Guardian Angel, the Protector of a Man's Life. In his old age, he retired from his episcopal see and again took up the monastic life in a monastery in Constantinople. He reposed during the reign of the aforementioned Emperor Alexis Comnenus (1081-1118).

January 30

Athanasia the Martyr & her 3 daughters

St. Athanasia and her three young daughters were arrested because they were Christians. Theoctiste was fifteen; Theodota, was thirteen; and Eudoxia, was eleven. They were flogged and then beheaded, receiving their crowns of martyrdom at Canopus in Egypt (311).

January 30

Hippolytos, Pope of Rome

The Hieromartyr Hippolytos, and the Martyrs Censorinus, Sabinus, Chryse the Virgin and 20 others suffered during the third century. When Saint Hippolytos, Bishop of Rome, learned of the suffering of the martyrs, he appeared before the governor despite his advanced years and rebuked the torturers for their inhumanity. The enraged governor sentenced the holy bishop to be tortured. After long torments, they tied him hand and foot and threw him into the sea.

Saint Hyppolitos was one of the most prolific writers of the early Church. He compiled a Paschal Canon, the famous Apostolic Tradition, “On Christ”, and a “Treatise on the Antichrist.” Saint Hippolytos also wrote many commentaries on Holy Scripture, on the Biblical Books: Genesis, Exodus, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, the Song of Songs, and on the Gospels of Matthew, Luke and John, and on the Prophets Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, on the Psalms of David and on the Apocalyse. Part of his works are preserved only in fragments. His discourses, devoted to the Theophany and the Prophet Daniel, are preserved in full.

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Eighth Tone. Psalm 18.4,1.
Their voice has gone out into all the earth.
Verse: The heavens declare the glory of God.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 13:7-16.

Brethren, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their lives, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Gospel Reading

Synaxis of The Three Hierarchs: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, & John Chrysostom
The Reading is from Matthew 5:14-19

The Lord said to his disciples, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

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Bulletin Inserts

    Weekly Bulletin - Sunday, January 30, 2022

    Weekly Bulletin - Sunday, January 30, 2022

    Weekly Bulletin - Sunday, January 30, 2022

    Holy Trinity GOYA Valentine's Brunch-To-Go!

    Holy Trinity GOYA Valentine's Brunch-To-Go!

    Holy Trinity GOYA invites you to enjoy a Valentine's Brunch-To-Go! Place your order in person following Liturgy or online at HolyTrinityPgh.org/Brunch by Thursday, February 3. Pick up on Sunday, February 6, 2022 in the Gallery following Liturgy. All orders must be placed in advance. Thank you!

    IOCC Soup Sampling

    IOCC Soup Sampling

    Please plan to attend an International Soup Sampling to benefit the IOCC on Saturday, February 5, 2022 from 11:00am until 2:00pm here at Holy Trinity Church.

    IOCC Health Kit Drive

    IOCC Health Kit Drive

    The IOCC Health Kit Drive and Assembly will be held here at Holy Trinity Church on Saturday, February 5, 2022 from 11:30am until 12:30pm. Youth volunteers and monetary donations are needed.

    Faith and Family Weekdays

    Faith and Family Weekdays

    Faith and Family Weekdays is back, and there is something for everyone! Journey of Marriage; Explore the Word; Parish Book Club; St. Lydia Women's Fellowship; Journey to Fullness; Prayer & Panera; Family Game Night! Check out this handy guide for more details including dates and times.

    Holy Trinity E-Giving Guide

    Holy Trinity E-Giving Guide

    We have expanded our opportunities to do so and now have a number of ways. The first way is that you can continue to bring or mail your donations to the church using the offering/capital campaign envelopes. The second way is Give By Web - the online method on the church’s website. Go to HolyTrinityPgh.org/give, or from the home page click on the Online Giving Tab, then click Give and simply enter your information. The third way is Give By Text, which is as easy as sending a text with the amount you would like to donate to 833-955-2176. You will receive a confirmation link immediately via text. The fourth way is Give By App using the Vanco GivePlus app, found in the App Store and on Google Play. Find information on it and more at HolyTrinityPgh.org/give-info.

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Wisdom of the Fathers

"But whosoever shall do and teach," said He, "shall be called great." For not to ourselves alone, should we be profitable, but to others also; since neither is the reward as great for him who guides himself aright, as for one who with himself adds also another.
St. John Chrysostom
Homilies 15 and 16 on Matthew 5, 4th Century

The Lord says to His disciples, 'Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven' (Matt. 5:16). He does not say this to urge them to show off, but to urge them to organize their lives as is pleasing to God. Just as light effortlessly attracts people's gaze, so a way of life pleasing to God draws their minds along with their eyes. We do not praise the air which shares in the brilliance of the sunlight, but the sun which is the source of this brilliance and bestows it on us. Even if we do praise the air for its brightness, we praise the sun much more. So it is when someone makes the brilliance of the Sun of righteousness (Mal. 4:2) visible through his virtuous deeds. As soon as anyone looks at him, they are immediately led towards the glory of the Father in heaven of Christ, the Sun of righteousness.
St. Gregory Palamas
Homilies Vol. 1, Homily Ten para. 14; Saint Tikhon's Seminary Press pgs. 110-111, 14th century

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Parish News and Events

 

TODAY'S EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

 

Philoptochos Meeting - Today

A Philoptochos meeting will be held in person today, following Divine Liturgy, in the Fireside Room.

 

GOYA Community Valentine’s Brunch-To-Go! Place Your Order TODAY for Pickup Next Sunday

Holy Trinity GOYA invites you to enjoy a “Valentine’s Brunch-To-Go” next Sunday, February 6. Orders must be placed in advance and can be made TODAY in the Gallery following Divine Liturgy or online until this Thursday, February 3 at HolyTrinityPgh.org/brunch. Proceeds benefit GOYA Ministry activities. THANK YOU for supporting our youth!

 

UPCOMING EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

Faith & Family Weekdays

Faith and Family Weekdays is back, and there is something for everyone! Ready to learn more about the Bible, about your Faith, about navigating life’s challenges as a Christian, a woman, or a man? It’s all there. New this season: the Parish Book Club, based on the Orthodox Christian book “Gratitude in Life’s Trenches.” Having been through the challenges of the past 18 months, we could all use a perspective that helps us find blessings and thanks even in the most challenging situations.

THIS WEEK:

  • Tues. Feb. 1, 7:00pm: “Journey of Marriage” – Marriage seminar aimed at preparing couples for their wedding. Based on the “Journey of Marriage” course by Dr. Philip Mamalakis. Conducted as group sessions with other couples to share and grow together. Meets the first Tuesday of the month through May.
  • Wed. Feb. 2, 6:30pm: “Parish Book Club” – Men and women of all ages can learn more about Christian living in the midst of challenges with a discussion of the book “Gratitude in Life’s Trenches: How to Experience the Good Life Even When Everything’s Going Wrong”. Sounds like help everyone could use!
  • Fri. Feb. 4, 7:00pm: “Parish Family Game Night” - Games, fun and fellowship for all ages! Lots of great board games, skill exercises and more. Bring your own favorites with you to share! Popcorn, snacks, and drinks provided. It’s for the entire family, so bring Papou & Yiayia, Mom & Dad, too!

 

[Feb 5] IOCC Health Kit Drive – Monetary Donations Needed

This Saturday, February 5, Holy Trinity Church will host an IOCC Health Kit Drive and Assembly. These small packages of essential supplies, assembled here by youth volunteers, will make a huge difference in ongoing International Orthodox Christian Charities programs or to those in need when disaster strikes. Our goal is to assemble several thousand Health Kits on this day. Donations are needed to help purchase bulk health kit supplies. Please make your check payable to “Holy Trinity AGAPE Fund” with “Health Kit Project” in the memo line and mail to Nick Terezis, c/o IOCC, 306 Marberry Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15215. The kit assembly will take place during the International Soup Sampling event. Please see below.

 

[Feb 5] International Soup Sampling to Benefit the IOCC – This Saturday!

This Saturday, February 5, from 11:00am until 2:00pm Holy Trinity Church will host an International Soup Sampling event to benefit the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities). Sample five homemade soups for $10 and take your favorite quart home for an additional $10 donation. Experience tastes from around the world! For questions or to pre-order soup, contact Vera at 412-833-0839 or croitv@verizon.net.

 

Snow Cancellations – Where to Check

Please keep in mind over the winter months that there are several options to hear or read about event or service cancellations in the case of snow or inclement weather on the Holy Trinity "Snow Line." First stop: Check our website at www.HolyTrinityPgh.org. To hear by phone, call the church office (412-366-8700) then press option #7 and listen for a recorded weather cancellation announcement. To get updates by computer or smartphone, there are three options: 1) watch the parish email list for email announcements; 2) check the front page of our website, www.HolyTrinityPgh.org. Finally, to get information by radio or television, watch the KDKA Storm Center, as Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church is registered there.

 

Two Important Charity Agencies Again Need Our Generous Outreach Support

Please see Mike Kritiotis today, or contact him at 412-518-0588, or at outreach@holytrinitypgh.org to sign up your family/group/ministry for either of these two worthy causes! The first is a smaller scale project (dinner for 30 people); the second service aims to provide lunch for 140! Thank you, good and faithful servants of Christ! (Also note, we do have parishioners who have expressed interest in helping families with delivering the food to the shelters.)

1. Feed the Homeless at Pleasant Valley Shelter.  Holy Trinity has a long-standing commitment to serve meals to the men at Pleasant Valley homeless shelter.  This organization, near our old neighborhood on the North Side, provides overnight accommodations to 30 homeless men, 365 nights each year and relies totally on volunteers to feed the men. Your group prepares and delivers the food (curbside drop-off available). Our dates are all Sunday evenings, and food needs to be there by 7:45pm.

2. Provide Bag Lunches for Needy Families through NRP.  Get your group or family and friends together for a meaningful day of giving to the poor and hungry in our region. Sponsored through the Orthodox outreach of the “Neighborhood Resilience Project”, the 2022 weekly schedule of delivering 140 lunch bags to our less fortunate neighbors every Saturday of the year, has many open dates available. Holy Trinity Church’s participation has been critical in fulfilling this goal in the past, and we are grateful for our parishioners’ renewed generosity again this year.

 

2022 Holy Trinity Stewardship Pledge Cards Now Due

The 2022 Holy Trinity Stewardship Pledge Cards have been distributed and all Holy Trinity Stewards should complete one immediately. If you have not yet received a 2022 pledge card or are new to Holy Trinity, additional pledge cards can be found at the Welcome Table located in the Narthex of the church.  Our member-funded church needs each and every one of us, no matter the amount. And remember, a signed pledge card is required as part of maintaining your membership in good standing at Holy Trinity Church each year. We’re grateful to all of you for your commitment. Questions? Contact Stewardship Chairman Mike Kritiotis or email stewardship@HolyTrinityPgh.org.

 

Holy Trinity Church Completion and Consecration Campaign: Have You Pledged Yet?

Plans are now being developed to complete the necessary items so Holy Trinity Church can be consecrated by the end of 2023, as was approved by the General Assembly last November. The plans provide for completing all the items required for consecration including completing the remaining iconography in the Church and Narthex; installation of numerous items of handcrafted ecclesiastical wood furnishings, most notably a permanent iconostasis and required new Holy Altar table; Altar furnishings and other liturgically required items for the Consecration; and more appropriate seating to replace the temporary chairs in the Church. If you haven’t done it already, please fill out the center section of the “ONE HOLY TRINITY” Pledge Card with your Church Completion and Consecration Campaign pledge amounts for 2021-2023.

 

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 our Holy Trinity family know 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 stop by our Connect Center located in the Gallery and join us for our Fellowship Coffee hour.

 

About Receiving Holy Communion in the Orthodox Church

As an extension of our hospitality and outreach ministries, 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. The antidoron is not a sacramental offering but is blessing and a reflection of the agape (love) feast that followed worship in the ancient Christian Church. Please join our parish family for hospitality after the holy services 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. In approaching the Holy Chalice, we respectfully ask anyone wearing a mask to fully remove it as you approach the Holy Gifts and do not replace it until you have received antidoron, so that the Body and Blood of Christ are not spread on the mask and discarded. Also, anyone wearing lipstick should remove it before receiving. For all those receiving, please wait in the Holy Communion line reverently, prayerfully, and quietly without talking. It is traditional as we approach with awe that we make the sign of the Cross or bow down with a “metanoia” as an act of humility before the Lord. Be sure to offer your baptismal name to priest before receiving. Please take great care that the red cloth is fully under your chin and to fully open your mouth so that none of the precious Body and Blood of Christ is accidentally spilled. Thank you for your cooperation, and may God have mercy on us all!

 

Upcoming Memorials: Feb 6: Toula Giannoutsos (1 year), John Giannoutsos (9 years); Feb 20: Jeff Mason (40 days); Feb 27: Anthony Balouris (40 days)

 

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