September 13
Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2020-09-13
Bulletin Contents
This Week and Upcoming Events
Event Flyers
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Wisdom of the Fathers
Saints and Feasts
Metropolis of Atlanta
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese News
Assembly of Bishops News
Hellenic College Holy Cross News
Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church
General Information
- Phone:
- (561) 833-6387
- Fax:
- (561) 833-6391
- Email:
- StCatherineWPB@gmail.com
- Street Address:
- 110 Southern Blvd.
- West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Contact Information
Services Schedule
Sunday Services:
8:45 am Orthros
10:00 am Divine Liturgy
Past Bulletins
- Publish Date:
- 2020-09-20
- Publish Date:
- 2020-09-06
- Publish Date:
- 2020-08-30
- Publish Date:
- 2020-08-23
- Publish Date:
- 2020-08-16
- Publish Date:
- 2020-08-09
This Week and Upcoming Events
Christ is in our midst! He is and ever shall be!
Click above to place a Saint in a Pew at Saint Catherine
This Sunday is the Forefeast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross.
Today we also remember the Consecration of the Church of the Holy Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre). This church is honored far above all others as that which Saint Constantine the Great constructed at the place of Golgotha, where our Savior was crucified and buried. For a long time this place had been purposely buried beneath the earth by the Jews and heathen; furthermore, during the reign of Hadrian (117-138), a temple dedicated to Aphrodite was built over the site so that this sacred place might be even further desecrated and fall into utter oblivion. It was here that the Cross was hidden. However, at the command of the pious Emperor Constantine, excavations were made and the tokens of the saving Passion were found. It was here that the very great and magnificent temple named in honor of Christ God's Resurrection -the Anastasis- was built under the supervision of the blessed Helen, while Macarius was Archbishop of Jerusalem. It was he who elevated (exalted) the venerable Cross and performed the consecration of this temple in the year 336.
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We continue to safely accomodate the number of parishioners who attend while maintaining the six foot 'social distancing' requirement. Should our attendees exceed the capacity which we can accomodate, the church will remain open for a brief time following the Divine Liturgy to commune the faithful who were not able to be present in the church proper.
Holy Communion continues to be offered in the traditional manner at the conclusion of the Liturgy. Everyone is to approach by the center aisle pew-by-pew, maintaining your distance in the line using the designated social distancing X's that have been placed in the center aisle. You may remove your masks momentarily to receive Holy Communion. Please do not touch the red communion cloth; it will be held underneath your chin by the assigned adult helper. Those not receiving Holy Communion are in the same line and will not stop for Holy Communion but continue to the Antidoron by the side exit door.
Our church sanctuary is sanitized between services. Note that there is an increase in coronavirus cases in Palm Beach County and observe all precautions.
Please read the COVID-19 Update from His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios in the Metropolis section of this bulletin.
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CDC Website for current Coronavirus updates: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
This Week at Saint Catherine
Sunday, September 13 ~ Forefeast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross
8:45 am Orthros - Link to the Orthros Service text
10:00 am Divine Liturgy - Link to the Divine Liturgy text
Wednesday, September 16
7:00 pm Parish Council Meeting
Next Sunday, September 20
The Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross - we will have the procession and litany of the Elevation at the end of the Divine Liturgy. We invite everyone to participate in the informational Zoom Parish Assembly at 2:00 pm. The link will be placed on the Home Page of our website that morning.
Parish Financial Summary
Parish Financial Summary for Eight (8) Mos. Ended August 31, 2020:
Income: $ 365,742
Expenses: $ 427,861
Net Income (Loss): ($ 62,118)
2020 Stewardship We thank those who have fulfilled - or are continuing to fulfill - their financial pledge for this year. We respectfully ask that those who have yet to begin their financial support to please do so.
Youth Safety Resources
We’re committed to connecting young people with Jesus Christ. To do that, we need to create ministry environments that are safe and health. For more on how you can help, please visit our new Youth Safety website: goarch.org/safety.
Many of our Divine Liturgies have been recorded and can be viewed at www.youtube.com. Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for 2020:
Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church (2020 services)
Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church (2015-2019 services)
Shop with Amazon, donate to Saint Catherine
Amazon Smile is a program that allows for 0.5% of your eligible Amazon purchase to be donated to our Saint Catherine Church (No Added Cost To You). To sign-up visit Sign up for Amazon Smile and press "Select" next to our church name. Then remember to log in to "smile.amazon.com" when you shop.
Event Flyers
A Time for Every Purpose Under Heaven
The Stewardship of Time. Our 2020 Stewardship Campaign.
New Website for our Diakonia Retreat Center
The Metropolis is pleased to announce a new and updated website for our beloved Diakonia Retreat Center: thediakoniaretreatcenter.com. Truly, it is only appropriate that such a place, which has seen much growth over the past few years, receive a brand new website that shall include even more information about the activities of the jewel of our Metropolis. The DRC is the home of Saint Stephen's Camp, the annual weekend for special needs families, our fruitful candle ministry, retreats for clergy and laity, and much more!
Policies for the Safety of Children and Youth
Creating healthy, Christ-centered ministry environments. ------------ As an Archdiocese, we're ready to take the next step in youth safety. ------------ The new Policies for the Safety of Children and Youth is how we'll do it. ------------ Ministry heads check this out! We must prepare and follow all the steps for the safety of our children. Our Archdiocese requires this in order to participate in any youth events !!!
Cyber Security Bulletin !
CYBER CRIME HAS BEEN INFILTRATING OUR LIVES FOR YEARS. More recently, parishes and religious communities around us are being targeted by a phishing scam . . .
Southern Blvd Bridge Replacement Project
Flagler Drive by the church will be closed through next summer. The bridge is scheduled to be completed after Pascha 2021.
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Matins Gospel Reading
Third Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Mark 16:9-20
When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.
After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.
Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they sat at table; and he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. And he said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."
So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it. Amen.
Epistle Reading
Prokeimenon. Plagal Second 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 Galatians 6:11-18.
Brethren, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God. Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.
Gospel Reading
Sunday before Holy Cross
The Reading is from John 3:13-17
The Lord said, "No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man who is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him."
Wisdom of the Fathers
For since Nicodemus had said, "We know that Thou art a teacher come from God," on this very point He sets him right, all but saying, "Think Me not a teacher in such manner as were the many of the prophets who were of earth, for I have come from heaven (but) now. None of the prophets hath ascended up thither, but I dwell there."
Homily 27 on John 3, 4th Century
Our Redeemer and Maker, Who was Son of God before the ages, became Son of Man at the end of ages. Thus the One Who, through the power of His divinity, had created us to enjoy the happiness of everlasting life, might Himself restore us, through the weakness of our humanity, to recover the life we had lost.
Homilies on the Gospels, 2.18. 7th Century. Taken from: Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Vol: John 1-10. Intervarsity Press, 2006, p. 126.
Saints and Feasts
September 13
The Consecration of the Church of the Holy Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre)
The church that is honoured far above all others is that of the Holy Resurrection, which Saint Constantine the Great constructed at the place of Golgotha, where our Saviour was crucified and buried. For a long time this place had been purposely buried beneath the earth by the Jews and heathen; furthermore, during the reign of Hadrian (117-138), a temple dedicated to Aphrodite was built over the site so that this sacred place might be even further desecrated and fall into utter oblivion. It was here that the Cross was hidden. However, at the command of the pious Emperor Constantine, excavations were made and the tokens of the saving Passion were found. It was here, then, that the very great and magnificent temple named in honour of Christ God's Resurrection-the Anastasis-was built under the supervision of the blessed Helen, while Dracilian was Eparch of Palestine and Macarius was Archbishop of Jerusalem. It was the latter, also, who exalted the venerable Cross and performed the consecration of this temple in the year 336.
September 13
Cornelius the Centurion & Martyr
Saint Cornelius was a Roman by race, a pagan by religion, a centurion in rank, an inhabitant of Caesarea of Palestine, a man pious and God-fearing who gave many alms to the people and prayed continually unto God. In accordance with an angelic vision granted to him, he sent to Joppa that they might bring the Apostle Peter. Saint Peter catechized him in the Faith of Christ and baptized all his household (Acts, ch.10). This became the beginning and the first fruits of the calling of the nations. It is said that, after this, he became a bishop, as some say, of Caesarea; but others say of Scepsis, which is not far from Troas; and that he died as a martyr.
September 14
The Elevation of the Venerable and Life-Giving Cross
Saint Helen, the mother of Saint Constantine the Great, when she was already advanced in years, undertook, in her great piety, the hardships of a journey to Jerusalem in search of the cross, about the year 325. A temple to Aphrodite had been raised up by the Emperor Hadrian upon Golgotha, to defile and cover with oblivion the place where the saving Passion had been suffered. The venerable Helen had the statue of Aphrodite destroyed, and the earth removed, revealing the Tomb of our Lord, and three crosses. Of these, it was believed that one must be that of our Lord, the other two of the thieves crucified with Him; but Saint Helen was at a loss which one might be the Wood of our salvation. At the inspiration of Saint Macarius, Archbishop of Jerusalem, a lady of Jerusalem, who was already at the point of death from a certain disease, was brought to touch the crosses, and as soon as she came near to the Cross of our Lord, she was made perfectly whole. Consequently, the precious Cross was lifted on high by Archbishop Macarius of Jerusalem; as he stood on the ambo, and when the people beheld it, they cried out, "Lord have mercy." It should be noted that after its discovery, a portion of the venerable Cross was taken to Constantinople as a blessing. The rest was left in Jerusalem in the magnificent church built by Saint Helen, until the year 614. At that time, the Persians plundered Palestine and took the Cross to their own country (see Jan. 22, Saint Anastasius the Persian). Late, in the year 628, Emperor Heraclius set out on a military campaign, retrieved the Cross, and after bringing it to Constantinople, himself escorted it back to Jerusalem, where he restored it to its place.
Rest from labour. A Fast is observed today, whatever day of the week it may be.
September 15
Nikitas the Great Martyr
This Saint was of high birth among the Goths beyond the Danube River. He was taken by Athanaric, pagan ruler of the Goths, and after being tortured, was burned to death for his confession of Christ. According to some, this took place during the reign of Saint Constantine the Great; according to others, under the Emperor Gratian.
September 15
Bessarion of Larissa
September 16
Euphemia the Great Martyr
Saint Euphemia was from Chalcedon and lived in virginity. According to some, she suffered martyrdom during the reign of Diocletian, in 303; according to others, in 307. Her sacred relics are preserved in the Patriarchate in Constantinople.
September 16
Ninian the Enlightener of Scotland
Saint Ninian was born in Cumberland in Britain around the year 360, about a half century after the Emperor Constantius Chlorus died in the British city of York, and his son Constantine, who was with him when he died, was proclaimed Emperor. Ninian was born of Christian parents of noble lineage, at a time when paganism was still strong in his native land. As a young man he went to Rome, where he spent many years in study and ascetical struggles. At Rome, Saint Ninian was consecrated some time after the death of Pope Damasus in 384, and was sent back to his native island about the end of the fourth century. On his return journey, it is likely that he passed through Tours and met Saint Martin; what is certain is that many churches and cells associated with Saint Ninian, including his own cathedral in Whithorn, were named in honour of Saint Martin. When Saint Ninian returned to Cumberland, he established monasteries that fostered both the life of prayer and missionary labours. By his preaching, his godly life, and his miracles, he ministered to his own countrymen, the Britons, and also converted many of the pagan Picts, who inhabited the northern regions (in today's Scotland). He reposed in peace at his see of Whithorn in Galloway in 432.
September 17
Sophia & her three daughters: Faith, Hope, and Love
These Saints were from Italy and contested for the Faith about the year 126, during the reign of the Emperor Hadrian. Faith was twelve years old, Hope, ten, and Love, nine; each was tormented and then beheaded, from the eldest to the youngest. Their mother Sophia mourned at their grave for three days, where she also fell asleep in peace; because of her courageous endurance in the face of her daughters' sufferings, she is also counted a martyr. The name Sophia means "wisdom" in Greek; as for her daughters' names, Faith, Hope, and Love (Charity), they are Pistis, Elpis, and Agape in Greek, and Vera, Nadezhda, and Lyubov in Russian.
September 18
Eumenius the Wonderworker, Bishop of Gortynia
This Saint took up the monastic life from his youth, and later became Bishop of Gortynia in Crete. He travelled to Rome, and to Thebes in Upper Egypt, where through his prayers he ended a drought; there also, after working many miracles, he reposed in deep old age. His holy relics were returned to Gortynia and buried at the place called Raxos.
September 18
Ariadne the Martyr
September 19
Trophimus, Sabbatius, & Dorymedon the Martyrs
In 278, during the reign of Probus, Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch, and seeing the city celebrating the festival of Apollo at Daphne lamented the blindness of the people, and presented themselves as Christians to Atticus the Governor. Saint Trophimus was stripped of his clothing, and was stretched out and beaten until the earth was red with his blood. Then he was hung up, scraped on his sides, and imprisoned in torments. Saint Sabbatius was tortured so savagely that he gave up his spirit in his sufferings. Trophimus was sent to Synnada, wearing iron shoes fitted with sharp iron nails within; he was further tormented without mercy, then cast into prison. Dorymedon, a counsellor, and a pagan, came to the prison and cared for Trophimus. When a certain feast came, Dorymedon was asked why he did not sacrifice to the idols; he proclaimed himself a Christian, for which he was imprisoned, pierced with heated spits, frightfully punished, and finally beheaded with Saint Trophimus.
September 20
Sunday after Holy Cross
Metropolis of Atlanta
Message from Metropolitan Alexios
My Beloved Ones,
Today marks the very solemn occasion of the 19th anniversary of the events of 9/11. Most need no reminder of this tragedy; but as the years pass, there is a generation of young people for whom this date is a historical event.
On Monday, we observe another occasion, but one of hope and triumph: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross. After St. Constantine legalized Christianity, his blessed mother, St. Helen, made it her goal to find the earthly relics of Christ, including the True Cross. Arriving at Golgotha in the year 325, she found the former execution place now a site for trash. In all the destruction, many would have felt overwhelmed and discouraged; emotions which I am sure those who remember the site of Ground Zero understand.
However, just as so many of the courageous first responders risked their health to help recover and rebuild after 9/11, so too did St. Helen search with her senses, and her heart. Soon, she saw and smelled the kingly plant known as Basil, and three crosses were uncovered. A sick woman was brought before the True Cross of Christ and the crosses of the two thieves. She venerated the first and the second, with no change; but when she kissed the third, she was instantly healed. Similarly, when a funeral procession passed by, the True Cross of Christ was able to raise the man from the dead.
For many, the veneration of the Cross of Christ poses a question: how can an instrument of death be worthy of devotion? St. Paul recognized this when he wrote “…we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 23-24). Indeed, it is only when we understand that God turned human reasoning upside down, that we begin to understand His mission: He who came into the world as a poor child, chose to end death—not with a legion of angels—but instead by His own death.
The reality of sin and evil was perhaps never clearer than on a day like 9/11. Almost two decades later, we solemnly remember the fear and sadness that day inspired. We also remember, though, the sense of hope and brotherly love that came in the days, weeks, months that followed; especially when we think of how New York City rebuilt in tribute, including our Archdiocese’s own contribution, the blessed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox National Shrine. As we commemorate the passing of another anniversary, praying for the souls of the victims and their families, may we seek to find comfort in the shade of Christ’s Cross, remembering that after the Crucifixion came our Lord’s glorious Resurrection, promising the ultimate victory of light over darkness, life over death, proving, once and for all, “the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
+ALEXIOS
Metropolitan of Atlanta
COVID-19 Resources
Supplemental letter for re-opening churches
May 22, 2020
I greet you my beloved with love and joy in the name of our Resurrected Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I pray that this message finds you well, as we prepare to re-open our churches.
This past week we hosted conference calls via Zoom with all the parishes in our God protected Metropolis. I offer my sincere gratitude to all who participated in these meetings as they were very beneficial, not only for those who attended, but for myself as well. In those meetings, we were able to review, assess the regulations of each State and see how we can best celebrate our Church Services in each location. From our discussions, we received valuable information to share with all of you.
Therefore, in addition to the guidelines stated in the letter dated May 13, 2020, please consider these supplementary guidelines as well.
To read the rest of His Eminence's letter and review the Metropolis protocols, please click here.
New OCAMPR website and COVID-19 Resources
Christ is in our midst! In response to the challenges we are facing in our communities, country, and worldwide, OCAMPR is reaching out to provide assistance to care professionals at this time. Please visit the new OCAMPR website and our COVID-19 Resources page: https://www.ocampr.org/covid-19-resources.html It contains links to the best resources for healthcare professionals as we serve our clients, patients, and parishes. Consider contributing useful information that you have found or developed. We are in the process of developing additional resources that might be useful.
We’re particularly interested in supporting the professionals on the frontlines, many of whom are carrying additional risks and burdens. It is easy to be overworked and isolated specifically as the stresses and complexities of care-providing increase.
Visit our Support for Frontline Professionals page:
https://www.ocampr.org/support-for-frontline-healthcare-professionals.html Here you may sign up for prayer support, receive a daily quote and reflection, or share your work experiences. Please share these resources with anyone whom you think might benefit.
We know that these are unique times for all of us, and we also know that we have been invited to provide important care at this time. OCAMPR seeks to support each healthcare professional because we do not need to respond alone. If you have any questions, comments, or specific needs that OCAMPR can assist you with at this time, do not hesitate to reach out to us at ocamprinfo@gmail.com. We seek to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) at this time as we offer our skills and services in faith and in love.
May our God of mercy, compassion, and love, through the prayers of His Most Holy Mother, Sts. Kosmas and Damian, St. Luke the Physician, and all the Saints be with all of you in the Lenten Season.
in Christ,
OCAMPR Executive Board
Stewardship Calling in the era of COVID-19
I just wanted to make available to you a very extensive set of resources I offered on my last AFR podcast with a lot of specific suggestions for parishes to consider in 10 strategic areas as a result of COVID-19 as well as a lot of other online resources they could access.
The podcast was over 2 hours given all of the content and resources, and I have also provided two written transcripts, once of the entire show, and a second one that just featured all of the ideas in the 10 areas and resources. I also encouraged those people who can afford to do so to accept the Coronavirus Contribution Challenge by taking their government check they will receive and contributing it to their local church, ministry or charity.
The podcast is free and can be shared and used with no conditions or restrictions. The specific podcast “Spread The Word Not The Virus” can be accessed here: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/stewardshipcalling/spread_the_word_not_the_virus
The printed resources can be downloaded here https://stewardshipcalling.com/internet-radio/, by scrolling down to the April 1, 2020 program notes.
Feel free to use or share what you want on the Metropolis communications or wherever. Thanks again for all you do and stay safe.
Have a blessed day.
Bill Marianes
Youth, Education and Hellenic Culture
For information on Policies for the Safety of Youth and Children, please click https://atlmetropolis.org/policies-for-the-safety-of-youth-and-children! Please remember that all parishes must comply and sign their parish contracts by December 1 to host any youth ministry programs or events on the parish level (Sunday School) or to participate on a District or Metropolis Level Events (Retreats, WYR & HDF).
September 9, 2020
My Brothers in the Lord,
I greet you with love and joy in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! I pray that we all experienced a blessed and joyous feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos.
As we enter this period of the new Ecclesiastical Year, the Metropolis turns its attention to those beautiful events: the Winter Youth Rally & Hellenic Dance Festival. Both WYR and HDF remain committed to safe environments for our Metropolis faithful to come together in fellowship, worship, and dance. Indeed, the Metropolis continues to closely monitor the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in accordance with CDC, State and Federal Guidelines.
Therefore it is with a heavy but clear heart that I write to inform you, based on the recommendation from both the WYR Committee & the HDF Executive Committee(in consultation with our Metropolis Administration, and the Clergy Syndesmos) we feel the safest and most prudent decision is to cancel this year’s Winter Youth Rally, and the Hellenic Dance Festival for 2021.
While this news must surely come as a disappointment, please know that your WYR and HDF teams are working diligently, in coordination with the Metropolis Youth Office, to prepare a few educational events, webinars and opportunities, which will allow us to celebrate our Hellenic Culture and Faith, while observing proper safety measures.
Thanking all the Metropolis faithful--grandparents, parents, and children--for theircontinued patience, and encouraging our continued prayerful intercessions to our Most-Holy Mother, I remain,
Paternally yours with love and blessings in the Lord,
+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta
Family Life Ministry
A growing branch of Family Life Ministry and generously powered by Leadership 100, Engage Orthodoxy is a place for anyone to find Orthodox Christian Content curated by a thoughtful and intentional administrative team.
“Engage Orthodoxy” is not only the name of this new site, but it is also the name of a movement away from division and towards unity. Engage Orthodoxy is a movement towards community, involvement, Orthodox friendships, and relationships. EO seeks to bring the the faithful, the curious, the lost, and the searching TOWARDS their faith and Christ and in turn, towards each other. Engage Orthodoxy is a movement forward into the future of the faith. Join us as we move toward Christ, toward each other, and toward the church.
For more information, or to order “Woven: An Interactive Book for the Modern Teenage Girl on Orthodox Christianity” please visit, woveninhislove.org
We also share with you helpful links from the OCN and the Family Life Ministry of the Metropolis of Atlanta.
Journey of Marriage (Pre-Marital Seminar)
All couples marrying in the Metropolis must attend a Metropolis-sponsored Journey of Marriage seminar prior to their wedding. The couple will present their certificate of completion to their parish priest after the seminar.
To see the full list of seminars in Florida and in our entire Metropolis for 2020 and beyond, and to register, please visit: https://atlmetropolis.org/pre-marital-seminars-journey-of-marriage
Registration is online. Materials costs are included in the registration. The seminars are currently being conducted by Zoom meeting.
The Strategic Plan
➩ Updates to atlstrategicplan.org ⇦
Have you gone to the atlstrategicplan.org website to find completed materials covering Stewardship or Outreach, Best Educational Materials or Youth Worker Training?
Now you can watch videos in each of these 4 areas to learn from the experts!
Workshops at the 2019 Metropolis Clergy-Laity Assembly in Jacksonville, Florida on these topics were videotaped to provide additional materials to help parishes in these areas.
The Stewardship Training video can be found here: https://atlstrategicplan.org/home/completed-goal-materials/9-1-comprehensive-stewardship-program
The Best Education Materials Training video can be found here: https://atlstrategicplan.org/home/completed-goal-materials/4-1-best-education-materials/
The Outreach, Evangelism, and Philanthropy Training video can be found here: https://atlstrategicplan.org/home/completed-goal-materials/7-1-outreach-evangelism-and-philanthropy
The Youth Worker Program Training Video can be found here: https://atlstrategicplan.org/home/completed-goal-materials/11-2-youth-worker-program/
_________________
Take a look at the online portal.
Vist www.atlstrategicplan.org/portal to view a list of the completed goals.
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese News
09/09/2020
09/09/2020
09/08/2020
09/08/2020
Assembly of Bishops News
Statement of the Chairman of the Assembly of Bishops On the Tragic Explosions in Beirut, Lebanon
08/06/2020
We express our deep sorrow at the devastation created by the explosions in Beirut. We mourn for the people of Lebanon, who now face an additional challenge in this time of great crisis.
Statement on the Tragic Conversion of Hagia Sophia from Museum to Mosque
07/10/2020
We, the Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, protest the decision of the civil courts in Turkey, as well as the clear direction of their government, to re-convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque. As citizens of the United States of America, we implore our government to intervene for the reversal of this decision. Furthermore, we urge the Turkish government to return to the status quo whereby Hagia Sophia remains a museum, respecting both its origins and history.
Encyclical for Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday 2020
07/07/2020
The Holy Orthodox Church, through Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry, brings the mercy, forgiveness, and love of Christ to those people who need hope and healing living in the darkness of prison.
Assembly of Bishops Releases Guidelines and Considerations for Safer Orthodox Church Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
06/16/2020
As parishes open their doors, and faithful around the country return to church, the Assembly of Bishops' COVID-19 Task Force - comprised of priests, public health professionals, risk management experts, and lawyers - has produced updated Guidelines and Considerations for Safer Orthodox Church Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA Continues to Minister to the Incarcerated through Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry During Covid-19
06/11/2020
Despite the unprecedented challenges caused by the global coronavirus pandemic, Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM), an agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA, has maintained its ministerial connection to Orthodox men and women in jails and prisons across the United States.
Assembly of Bishops’ Executive Committee Calls All to Prayer for Justice and Peace during Nationwide Civil Unrest
06/02/2020
We stand in unequivocal solidarity and peaceful protest with all those who condemn racism and inequality, which betray the spirit of democracy in our nation, i.e. “one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”. At the same time, we denounce all expressions of violence and revenge, including those despoiling and detracting from peaceful demonstrations.
Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Task Force Premiers Mini Series
05/30/2020
The Assembly of Bishops’ Mental Health Task Force presents a 6-episode miniseries on Mental Health and Orthodox Christianity. Check out the flyer below for more details!
Learn About the Assembly of Bishops Live on Ancient Faith Radio
05/28/2020
Tune in to a live interview with the current Secretary, Metropolitan Gregory, the initial Secretary, Mary Arey, and the Director of Operations, Nicholas Anton, to learn about the past, present, and future of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America.
Leadership of Assembly of Bishops Appeals for Equitable Treatment of Religion in Reopening of States
05/22/2020
Today, the Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America met via video conference and determined that a direct appeal to several Governors be made to insist on the equitable treatment of religion in the reopening of certain States.
A Nationwide Approach of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA for the Staged Reopening of Churches during the COVID-19 Pandemic
05/14/2020
We have heard the pained cry of the Faithful who, although faithful in their devotion, as witnessed by virtual participation in broadcast services and their continuing stewardship support of the Church, have felt an intense separation from Holy Eucharist and their Communities.
A Video Compilation of Pascha (Easter) from Home During the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic
04/21/2020
During a painful time of forced separation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Orthodox Christians united as the one Body of Christ worshiping from home. This short compilation highlights creative ways the faithful celebrated Holy Week and Pascha (Easter) in 2020!
ACOB-USA Releases a Video Message of Solidarity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
04/10/2020
Unable to gather in person for Holy Week, the heads of jurisdictions joined together to send you a message of solidarity from their homes to yours!
Statement of the ACOB-USA Executive Committee Concerning Holy Week and Pascha (Easter)
04/04/2020
After consultation with public health officials, law enforcement, theologians, and pastoral care professionals, we, members of the Executive Committee, have reached a consensus concerning Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Pascha (Easter) and strongly encourage all Bishops of the Assembly to implement the following recommendations
Assembly of Bishops USA Announces COVID-19 Resource Center for Orthodox Christians
03/27/2020
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA announces a resource center for clergy and faithful during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Statement to the Faithful On Church Attendance and Best Practices during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Pandemic
03/17/2020
Responding to the rapid spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), and as your Bishops and Spiritual Fathers, we must be very clear and emphatic about one thing: it is not a sin to refrain from church services or sacraments during this time of pandemic.
Encyclical for the Sunday of Orthodoxy
03/05/2020
While we process with the icons in our churches, our celebration should not be merely a remembrance of a past event with significance only for those who inherited it as a cultural tradition. We must remember that the valiant martyrs and confessors that struggled in defense of the icons did not do so to defend an esoteric theological formula but to proclaim the Faith that 'established the universe.'
Assembly of Bishops Executive Committee Appoints New Committee Chairs and Director of Operations
03/05/2020
During their February 27th meeting, the Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops USA (ACOB) appointed Metropolitan Tikhon as Chair of the Committee for Monastic Communities and Archbishop Benjamin as Chair of the Committee for Liturgy. Additionally, the Executive Committee appointed Nicholas Anton as ACOB’s first Director of Operations (DO).
Executive Committee meets to Prepare for 10th Anniversary Celebration
02/27/2020
On Thursday, February 27, 2020, the Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America convened at the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America to discuss the 2020 and 2021 budgets, ongoing projects, and the upcoming 10th Anniversary of the Assembly, to be held May 2-5 in Washington, DC.
Mission Sunday 2020
02/25/2020
Sunday, March 1st, has been designated Mission Sunday by the Hierarchs of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. Missions lies at the very core of our Orthodox tradition. The Church was founded on a spirit of sharing the Good News of Christ’s Resurrection with the world so that all people, in every nation, may partake of salvation and restoration through Him.
Assembly of Bishops Delegation Participates in March for Life
01/24/2020
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America sent a delegation to the annual March for Life in the nation’s capital on Friday, January 24, 2020. The event marks the 47th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion.
Orthodox Scouting Sunday - February 9, 2020
01/21/2020
Scouting gives us all of the good behaviors we aspire our children to have, while minimizing the bad ones. In Scouting, all youth are taught the Scout Oath, which ends with this phrase, 'To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.' Each and every Scout lives by this code in every aspect of their life.
Share the Light Sunday 2020
01/15/2020
Together let’s celebrate OCN media ministry missions as an official agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America. The 3rd Sunday of January each year has been declared by the Assembly of Bishops as OCN Sunday.
Pan-Orthodox Christmas Concert 2019
12/09/2019
In the midst of this Christmas season, on December 8, 2019, professional choirs of the families of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches came together in concert to bear witness to their respective spiritual traditions, interpreting a selection of ancient and beautiful hymns portraying the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the Lord’s Nativity.
Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry Launches National Search for Executive Director
12/06/2019
OCPM seeks a highly motivated and purpose-driven leader as Executive Director. The mission of the OCPM is to serve those who are incarcerated and their families, and provide resources, training and support to our ministry partners.
Pan-Orthodox Christmas Concert - Dec 8, 2019
12/04/2019
A Showcase of the beautiful and spiritual sacred hymns of the Christmas Season as presented by professional choirs of the families of the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches. The concert will portray the ancient apostolic tradition of the Holy Incarnation and Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation Concludes Fall Meeting
10/29/2019
The Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation met from October 24-26, 2019 in Maryland to continue its work on marriage. Members of each delegation delivered papers on the rite, theology, and practices concerning marriage as understood in each respective tradition.
Assembly of Bishops of the USA and the Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches Revive the Joint Commission of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches
10/08/2019
Representatives of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Christian churches met today at the Armenian Cathedral of St. Vartan for the first meeting of the joint commission in nearly a decade. The meeting began with a common prayer service followed by open discussions.
Executive Committee of the Assembly of Bishops Recommits to Orthodox Unity in the USA
09/18/2019
The Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America met today, under the chairmanship of Archbishop Elpidophoros, to discuss the state of Orthodox Christian unity in the USA. Recognizing the challenges in global Orthodoxy, the jurisdictional representatives reiterated their commitment to the local faithful of America and rededicated themselves to fulfilling the call for canonical normalcy and pastoral unity on contemporary issues.
The North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation Releases New Agreed Statement on the Vocation and Mission of the People of God
08/06/2019
More than five years in the making, this new text takes a different approach to ecumenical dialogue: instead of addressing together an issue that has prevented full communion between the churches, here the Catholic and Orthodox theologians examine together challenges that affect both churches, in this case the role of the laity in the two traditions and the problem of clericalism.
North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation and Joint Committee of Orthodox-Catholic Bishops Concludes Productive Spring Meetings
05/31/2019
The North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation’s 96th session was held at the St. Methodios Faith and Heritage Center in Contookook, NH, from May 28-31, 2019. His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios and His Eminence Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin chaired the meeting. The membership, eighteen theological scholars of varying disciplines, contributed to discussions on pastoral, theological, and practical matters.
North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation Convenes for 96th Meeting
05/29/2019
The North American Orthodox-Catholic Theological Consultation commenced its 96th meeting today at the St. Methodios Faith and Heritage Center. The high-level consultation is the oldest and longest-running in the world and meets biannually to discuss theological differences and commonalities between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. The agenda will address vocation and ministry, inter-Christian marriage, Synodality, and respective Church updates.
Fast Questions and Fast Answers about American Orthodox Christian Monasteries
03/04/2019
There are eighty Orthodox Christian monasteries in the USA which represent great variety of ethnic and liturgical traditions. In fact, America is, probably, the only place in the world where - within the same country - one can visit Greek, Russian, Romanian, Serbian Orthodox monasteries and experience their different 'ethnic' liturgical styles, worship practices, church architecture, musicology and iconography.
Statement on the Sanctity of Life
01/31/2019
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America affirms the sanctity of life based on the firm conviction that life begins at the moment of conception. The Assembly remains steadfast in its conviction that any interference in the development of life is a serious issue, and therefore it regularly participates in a variety of relevant events and also releases pertinent statements on the topic.
2019-2020 Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships Available from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
01/29/2019
Applications for two scholarships administered by the Department of Philanthropy of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America are now available to students from Orthodox Churches affiliated with the Assembly of Bishops.
Fast Questions and Fast Answers about the Geography of Orthodoxy in America
12/05/2018
Fast Questions and Fast Answers about the Geography of Orthodoxy in America is the second essay in a group of mini-reports about Orthodox Church life in America. Surprising, stimulating, and, at the same time, important facts about the geographic distribution of Orthodox parishes and church members in America are discussed in this essay.
Orthodox Christian Hierarchs Gather for Second Day of Annual Meeting
10/04/2018
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America is committed to encouraging spiritual unity, communication, and cooperation among the parishes of various jurisdictions situated in the same geographic areas. The work of local clergy brotherhoods is a critical part of this process of achieving greater unity.
Address of the Chairman His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America
10/03/2018
The door is open, but here are many adversaries for us, too. Many challenges. This is why it is vitally important to be together, to act together, to strengthen the work of this Assembly. Here we have the opportunity to discuss strategies for offering our Orthodox witness, to deal with problems that we face as churches, as well as problems that we may face with one another.
Fast Questions and Fast Answers about American Orthodox Bishops
09/25/2018
Based on questions that American Orthodox hierarchs often receive from clergy and parishioners, this essay offers readers plenty of interesting facts about their lives as Bishops, as well as who they are as people.
New Map of Bishops and Parishes Available on the Assembly Website
08/07/2018
A new map, Orthodox Bishops and Parishes in the United States, is now available on the Assembly's website. The updated map shows: a) locations, names and jurisdictions of all active Orthodox bishops in the United States and b) the total number of Orthodox parishes in each county.
Directory of Pan-Orthodox Clergy Brotherhoods and Associated Pan-Orthodox Organizations
07/20/2018
The first-ever national state-by-state directory of the active local and regional Orthodox Clergy Brotherhoods and associated Pan-Orthodox laity organizations has been published by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA. Thirty-six local or regional Orthodox Clergy Brotherhoods and nine Pan-Orthodox laity organizations are listed in this directory.
Orthodox Christian Churches in 21st Century America: A Parish Life Study
01/30/2018
The study 'Orthodox Christian Churches in 21st Century America' offers a comprehensive picture of the lives of local American Orthodox parishes, including such aspects as membership, worship, programs, religious education, youth, usage of electronic technologies, and much more. In addition, the study also addressed the crucial question: 'How are Orthodox Christian parishes faring today among the many other American local religious communities?'