August/September 2013 - St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church
Transcription
August/September 2013 - St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church
36 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 GREECE METRO TOURS Next to Heaven There is only... By Peter Metropolis, Manager 978-535-4000 ext. 110 800-221-2810 Nationwide 978-535-8830 Fax travel@metrotours.com Www.metrotours.com A Publication of SAINT VASILIOS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 5 Paleologos Street, Peabody, MA 01960-4496 . Tel: (978) 531-0777 . Fax: (978) 538-9522 Web: www.stvasilios.org . E-mail: info@stvasilios.org August/September, 2013 Tremont Pharmacy PRESIDENT/CEO: NICK SARANTOPOULOS BRANCH MANAGER: NIKI CHARALAMBOUS 32 CENTRAL STREET - (978) 968-2222 www.myccu.org ORQODOJOS ZWH ● ORTHODOX LIFE Tremont Drug Co. 86 Tremont Street Peabody, MA 01960 Stephen S. Kalivas, R. Ph. 978 531 1853 Monthly Bulletin Advertising Reaches 1,200 Families Ads starting at $325.00 per year Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 Save the Dates as St. Vasilios Prepares for its Annual Festival 2013 Greek Festival Friday, NOVEMBER 8 Saturday, NOVEMBER 9 Sunday, NOVEMBER 10 Greek Foods ● Greek Pastry ● Country Store ● Boutiques ● Dancing ● Religious Display ● Ethnic Dances ● Children’s Games ● Grand Raffle NIKOLAOS K. KANALOUPITIS SEE INSIDE FOR FOOD DONATION AND VOLUNTEER DETAILS Chief Executive Officer Continental Business Systems Church Service Announcements p. 2 Weekday Services /Dates to Remember p. 3 Winter Hours p. 3 Fr. Kerry’s Message p. 4 Parish Council News– President’s Message p. 5 Trivia Night p. 5 2013 Stewardship Update p. 6 Bell Tower Fund Total Pledges & Donations p. 7 Helping to Keep the Children in the Church p. 8, 12 Organizations & Ministries p. 9 Scholarships & Recipients p. 10-11 YOCAMA Mission Trip 2013 p.13 2013 Family Picnic p. 14-15 St. Vasilios Bookstore & Resource Center p. 16 St. Vasilios Coffee Fellowship Hour p. 17 For Rent p. 17 September/October Calendars p. 18-19 November Festival Information p. 20-21 Greek School News & Registration p. 22-25 Church School & Religious Education p. 26-27 Healthbeat p. 28 Cooking for the Heaven from hunger p. 29 St. Val’s Hoops p. 30 St. Val’s Men’s Club New Year’s Party p. 31 Donations p. 33-34 Strategic and Financial Planning and Management P.O. Box 3216 Tel: 978-922-0133 Beverly, MA 01915 Fax: 978-921-0139 nkkanaloupitis@cbs-consulting.net C B S St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church CONSULTING St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church 5 Paleologos Street Peabody, MA 01960-4496 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 15 Peabody, MA 01960 Return Service Requested You are invited to the Leadership Seminar follow-up Sunday, August 18, 2013 Following the Divine Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A light brunch will be served Please RSVP by August 14th (church office) @ 978-531-0777 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 2 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Baptisms The child of John & Sumiko Upton With Godparent Zina Varelas The child of Demetrios & Dina Kalaitzidis With Godparent Speros Venios Weddings George Angelo Scangas & Michelle Finnegan with sponsors Philip Scangas & Theophilos Poulopoulos Funerals The following members of St. Vasilios have fallen asleep into the hands of our Lord over the past months. Chris Donna (Tsaltas) Smyrnios Elene (Patsiaris) Petrovitsis Catherine (Angelakis) Apostolides Jennie (Goulos) Andrian Theodore Tsoutsouras James Zouras Anthony Koutzoukis Carol (Georgelas) Katsarakes George A. Nichole George H. Skaliotis May their memory be eternal. For the most updated information, check out www.stvasilios.org 40– Day Christoforos Christoforou Catherine Apostolides Theodore Tsoutsouras Jennie Andrian Anthony Koutzoukis 3-Month Nicholas Qirjazi Christoforos Christoforou The child of Fotios & Sophia Stamos With Godparents Dimitrios & Katerina Mytaras The child of Stanley & Lia Koulalis With Godparents Peter & Jamie Antonopoulos Daniel Arthur Greeke & Marina Christine Kappa with sponsor Valerie Kappa 246 Andover Street Peabody, MA 01960 Tel: (978) 531-7000 Fax: (978) 538-0152 Email: ambeliotis@avdalaw.com METRO CLEANERS 43 Foster Street, Peabody, MA HOUSE OF QUALITY 978-532-6337 1- Year Mary Provas Theodore Giftakis Georgia Miragias George Terzakis Anthony Triantafillou VASILIOS SIMOU AND FAMILY 32- Year Pantelis Tilas We would like to apologize for the misprints that were in our June/July bulletin. Listed below are the corrections: Nicholas M. Ambeliotis Nicholas P. Vontzalides Athan A. Vontzalides William F. Delaney Ankeles, Vontzalides, Ambeliotis & Delaney LLP 6-Month Aspasia Tilas 5- Year Demi Tzortzis Dimitrios Zamakis & Maria E. Martinoli with sponsor Alexandros Zamakis Jeffrey Roy Conway & Pauline Vromovrisiotis with sponsor George Vromovrisiotis Memorials Trisagia Penelope Karedis 6 mo. Stella Stathos 6 mo. Barbara Tsapatsaris 3 yr. Athena Lewis 3 yr. Vasilios Ritsos 5 yr. Peter Speros 10 yr. Betty (Despena) Revelotis 11 yr. Charles D. (Konstandinos) Revelotis 16 yr. Alexandros Kritopoulos 24 yr. Michael Drougas For the electronic version of ORTHODOX LIFE visit our website at:www.stvasilios.org 35 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 NEW ENGLAND MEAT MARKET Charles Silva 62 Walnut Street, Peabody, MA 01960 978-531-0846 Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 STEPHEN M. ZOLOTAS Attorney at Law 133 Washington Street Salem, MA 01970 Tel: (978) 744-5333 Fax: (978) 832-1177 szolotas@zolotaslaw.com FOFO’S Stefana only $59 Christening Outfits 25% off Decorated Candles Religious Items Plenty of Matia, Matia, Matia 136 Main Street Peabody, MA 01960 (978) 977 9141 Tue-Fri 11-5 Sat 11-4 Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 MENIATES FAMILY IN MEMORY OF JAMES X. & RENA MENIATES Bulletin Advertising Space Available Bulletin Advertising Space Available Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 Please contact Irene at 978-531-0777 ORGETTAS FAMILY IN MEMORY OF MICHAEL & RENA ORGETTAS 34 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 3 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Donations Continued Weekday Services In memory of Catherine Apostolides Drs. Paul & Leslie Donovan Apostolides & family Mr. Norman Dobson Dorothy Tsouvalas Gus & Marie Angelos Fotini Manolakos Diane Nikola & Kirsten Nikola Luz Maria Angelakis John & Marilyn Venios Jean Yokas Elaine, John, Mary Ann & Stavro Apostolides Dr. Donna J. Hagberg Dr. & Mrs. Mark Camel Ms. Tina Lefthes Margo & George Padios Jeanne Gallant Mrs. Mary Franggos Karen Ann & Norman Kramer Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists Mrs. Janice Terzakis Thomas Hawes Priscilla & Kevin Goggin Julie Fleming Bonnie & Jerry O'Neil Bates Family & McCarthy Family Evangeline Leondires Anna & Jim Chronis Esther Crowell Stephen S. Kalivas Joan Tsapatsaris William & Anne Tsapatsaris Maria & John Hatzis George & Claire Apostolides Mark Leondires & Greg Zola Gloria & Ted Kougianos Pat & Kyriakos Andrinopoulos Mary Nickitopoulos Michael & Christine Angelakis Peter Angelakis Daughters of Penelope Zelia Chapter 120 Paul & Francine Butler Tassos & Anna Varinos Madeline & Scott Simon June C. Donovan Howard & Anna Riina Jana Angelakis Ruth & Christine Morfis Katherine Asloglou Rose-Marie & John Newbury Patricia Kaplan Heidi Mason John & Virginia Tsouvalas Frank & Tina Varinos Artemis, Alexis, Nikki Coble Dr. & Mrs. Nicholas Theodore Dormition Thursday, August 15th 8:00 a.m. Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy KAQHMERINES IERES AKOLOUQIES Koi/mhsic Pe/mpth, 15h Augou/stou 8:00 pm ‘Orqroc 9:00 pm Qei/a Leitourgi/a St. Phanourios Tuesday, August 27th 8:00 a.m. Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy Agiou Fanouri/ou Tri/th, 27h Augou/stou 8:00 pm ‘Orqroc 9:00 pm Qei/a Leitourgi/a Beheading of John Baptist Thursday, August 29th 8:00 a.m. Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy Apokomh/ Kefalh/c Prodro/mou Pe/mpth, 29h Augou/stou 8:00 pm ‘Orqroc 9:00 pm Qei/a Leitourgi/a Elevation of the Cross Saturday, September 14th 8:00 a.m. Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy H U / ywsic tou Timi/ou Staurou/ Sabba/to, 14h Septembri/ou 8:00 p.m. ‘Orqroc 9:00 p.m. Qei/a Leitourgi/a Vesperal Liturgy for St. Iakovos Tuesday, October 22nd St. James 6 p.m. Esperino/c Tri/th, 22h Oktwbri/ou St. James 6 p.m. Demetrios the Myrrbearer Saturday, October 26th 8:00 a.m. Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy Dhmh/trioc o Megaloma/rtuc Sabba/to, 26h Oktwbri/ou 8:00 p.m. ‘Orqroc 9:00 p.m. Qei/a Leitourgi/a 2013 Dates to Remember Winter hours begin Sunday, September 8 Church School Begins Sunday, September 15 Peabody International Festival Sunday, September 8 Orthodox Life Class Begins Tuesday, September 10 Inquirer’s Class Begins Tuesday, September 10 Greek School Begins Wednesday, September 11 St. Makrina Study Group Begins Wednesday, October 2 Trivia Night Saturday, October 12 2013 Greek Festival November 8, 9, 10 St Val’s Men’s Club Christmas/New Year’s Party December 31, 2013 In memory of Jennie Andrian-Bell Tower Ted, Sophia & Stephanie Grevelis Gayle & Stefanos Loisou Stratos, Sandy, Peter & Dimitri Kontakos Nicholas & Joan Vontzalides Dimitri & Kiki Karakoudis Calvin Powers Ann A. Toyias Dave & Pat Dwyer Tomas Napoleon Stanley & Judy Lignos Sandra & George Pappas Dolly, John, Anthony & Johnny Zannino Charles, Pauline & Eleni Halepakis Anne M. Brown Denise Martwichuck John & Jennie Quartarone Kim Bento-Lignos Charles & Bessie Silva Mary Tenedios John & Virginia Tsouvalas Mr. & Mrs. Michael Martwichuck George & Elaine Martwichuck & family Georgiann & James Koutrouba Yamalis family Evangeline Leondires Karen & Dimitri Maistrellis Charles Papandreou Winter Hours XEIMERINES WRES Please note that winter hours for Church Services begin on Sunday, September 8, 2013 Oi xeimerine/c w/rec qa arxi/souv thn Kuriakh,/ 8h Septembri/ou 2013. 2nd Orthros - Greek 8:00 a.m. 1st Divine Liturgy - English 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy - Greek & English 10:30 a.m. ‘Orqroc - Ellhnika/ 8:00 p.m. Prw/th Qei/a Leitourgi/a-Agglika/ 9:00 p.m. Deu/terh Qei/a Leitourgi/a Ellhnika/ kai Agglika/ 10:30 p.m. 4 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 33 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Donations THE NEW ECCLESIASTICAL YEAR WHAT IS THE CHURCH? On Sunday, September 1st, our Church marks the Beginning of the New Ecclesiastical Year---It’s a time when all the Fall programs throughout our parishes start-up again…Sunday School, Bible Studies, Choir, Philoptochos, GOYA, the Mirophores Youth Program, our very popular Youth Basketball Program, etc. There is an air of excitement throughout our community as the new school year begins and as families return from their summer vacations…. This also a time when we ALL should reflect on the past year as we assess the spiritual growth of our parish community…It’s also a time when we as clergy together with our parishioners should assess our ongoing ministries so that we may better serve the needs of our faithful. One of the questions that has consistently come-up in my discussions with parishioners through the years, is “Father, just what IS the Church anyway?” Such questions are very common among our people these days since they are constantly bombarded by a pluralistic society which serves-up a never -ending array of spiritual and secular lifestyles. Both young and older parishioners are many times confused by all the rhetoric which surrounds modern-day America, and thus, often do not know who and what to believe. We as Orthodox Christians need to revisit, from time to time, the true definition of what the Church is! St. Paul instructs, in his letters to the churches of the Eastern Mediterranean what it truly means to be members of Christ’s Body: to BE the Church and to be IN the Church… Nowhere in the New Testament is Paul’s teaching on the Church more fully disclosed than in the 4th Chapter of his letter to the Ephesians. He instructs that: *The Church is ONE, “endeavoring to keep the unity of The Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians4:3) There is ONE Church, ONE God, ONE doctrine, and ONE Baptism. *The Church is PEOPLE, men and women who are energized by the Holy Spirit. For “to teach each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:14,&16). *The Head of the Church is CHRIST, “from whom the whole Body is joined and knit together” (Eph.4:25). * The Church “is the new man” (Eph. 4:24), the new creation, made to be righteous and holy. We are no longer alienated from God (Eph. 4:18), but we are renewed together (Eph. 4:23), “members of one another” (Eph. 4:25). The Church then, my dear brothers and sisters, is a place established by Christ where we each may become what we are created to be, maturing and perfected. The Church, in turn, receives what it needs from each of us, so that it too, may be perfected. The Church, as the Body of Christ, carries us beyond our petty and worldly personal concerns, stretching our vision to the eternal and the heavenly as we ascend together to worship the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. If we carefully look around us, we will see how blessed we are here at St. Vasilios Church with so many of our faithful who genuinely strive to have Christ as the centerpiece of their lives. In addition, our parish is doubly blessed with leaders and stewards who truly see themselves as brothers and sisters of Christ as they, together with Fr. Chris, constantly strive to make our community a true beacon of Orthodoxy! It is this dynamic that convinces me of a bright future for our Church. As we begin this new Ecclesiastical Year. I invite all of our faithful to recommit themselves, together with their priest to Christ and His Church! As long as we all continue to have Christ as the centerpiece of our parish life, we have nothing to fear. The future is unlimited if HE is our guide and our role model! I invite you to COME AND BE PART OF THE CHURCH—HIS CHURCH—filled with PEOPLE who are energized by THE HOLY SPIRIT! I wish you all a HAPPY ECCLESIASTICAL NEW YEAR! -- “Christ is in our mist!” “He is and always will be!” +Father Kyriakos V. Saravelas 100 620 100 20 25 25 100 500 150 100 100 50 866.59 1,240 25 50 50 50 25 20 25 100 50 40 100 100 25 100 200 200 20 100 70 30 100 40 50 20 100 50 50 50 25 50 500 25 20 25 Katherine Brown in memory of sister Virginia Pavlis Family & Friends in memory of Chris Donna Smyrnios Mr. & Mrs. Demetreos Limberakis in memory of Agnes Georgion Litsa Athanasopoulos in memory of parents Steven & Roza Rev. Kyriakos & Presv. Sophia Saravelas in loving memory of parents Venis & Anna Saravelas Van Leondires in memory of Mary Tsouvalas France K. Panos in memory of Stella Stathos Dorothy Raczkowski in memory of beloved daughter Kathy Mayo and sister Connie Troubetaris Tess Miragias in memoryof parents Elias & Georgia Miragias & grandparents George & Helen Mandragouras St. Vasilios Philoptohos Athena in memory of all deceased members Charles Mavroules in memory of father James Mavroules-50 yearsCharles Mavroules in memory of departed loved ones Mr. Dionisios Moutsoulas in memory of wife & grandson 2012-2013 Church School weekly donations from students to Bell Tower Fund Family & Friends in memory of Leonidas Tsionis-Bell Tower Fund In memory of Anthony Koutzoukis Norman Dobson Anne Neylon Joseph & Marie DiFranco Jean Yokas Clay & Stella Anastopoulos C. Renaud Tina Manolakos William & Carol Katinoglou Michael & Cynthia Gargas Chrystal & Tony Silva Peter & Jean Sabanty Stephen Kalivas & Poppy Kalivas Bill & Stacie Stephanides Bill & Honey Tsapatsaris Paul & Ritsa Katinoglou Statia & Tom McLaughlin Theodore Booras Tracy Donovan Stasia Roberts & Helen Hathaway Kostas & Niki Spiliakos Tim, Amy, Tiana, Brielle & T.J. Salvo Connie & Jose daRosa Debbie & Alex Tsoukalas Thomas Moran Beatrice Skangos & Paula Skangos Charles Maurais Nicholas J. & Helen F. Decoulos Charles Reid Family Clyde & Mary Hudnall Dolly, John, Anthony & Johnny Zannino St. Val's Men's Club St.Val's Men's Club Paul & Marianne Gardner Dorothy Tsouvalas 20 25 50 50 50 50 50 40 50 40 50 100 100 100 50 100 25 25 200 100 50 50 35 25 25 25 25 100 50 In memory of Elene Petrovitsis Dorothy Tsouvalas E.H. O'Brien R. Paul McCormick Ann & George Goulos Jim & Sophie Metropolis Alex & Demetra Tsoukalas Charles & Mary Baletsa Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Chakoutis John & Marilyn Venios Mrs. Paula M. Halepakis Mr. & Mrs. William Tsapatsaris Mr. & Mrs. Dimitrios Karakoudas Mr. & Mrs. Strato Kontakos Mrs. Despina Drougas & Famly Mr. & Mrs. Costa Apostolopoulas Mr. & Mrs. Nick Stasinos Mrs. Mary Franggos Mary Nickitopoulos Konstadinos & Evangelos Stavrou Charles N. Papandreou In memory of Carol Katsarakes Mr. & Mrs. Peter Mandragouras Cynthia Georgelas Mr. & Mrs. Robert Corriveau Tess Miragias John & Elaine Apostolides Ann Katsarakes The Pitenis family Audrey Atkinson,Ann Freitas, Pearl LaJoie, Sophis Vaciliou Mr. & Mrs. William Stratis ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 32 5 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Parish Council News to organizing family, parish and youth retreats to this amazing place. I am also committed to giving every church school student at least one opportunity to go to “What I did on my summer vacation,…._ camp. It is our treasure and we MUST take the opporI went to camp. tunity to let it rejuvenate and renew us. When you see it advertised soon, please consider attending and I had the superior privilege again this year to you too can write home about your experiences at spend some of my “summer vacation” at the Metropol- camp! itan Boston Camp in New Hampshire. The benefits of which are almost too numerous for this article, and Yours in Christ, could probably fill this bulletin. For me it was a chance to unplug from the world. Yes, I had my smart Pam Karamas Katsiris phone and my tablet, but they only worked in the re- Parish Council President treat house great room, and nowhere else in the camp. I brought plenty of work and summer reading, and set PS I, like my kids, made so many friends at camp that up a workstation in the great room. I set a schedule for I have been staying in touch with since I left and startmyself and worked with such focus, free of distrac- ed to miss as I was going down the driveway….Nurse tions and in utter silence and peace. Never have I been Thea, Mike Sintros, Fr Iakovos, and Fr Chris Stamas, more efficient! But I could not deny the other great I miss you! works that were going on around me. Our handicapped son Dean was welcomed into the organized fracas that is camp. He couldn’t wait to get there. He started hugging people before he even got out of my car. The counselors and kids all knew his name and embraced him as one of their own. Mike Sintros, the director, and the wonderful staff took him under their wings, guided him through the full days of activities and smoothed every bump along the way. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Pamela Karamas Katsiris, President Our twins were also there and I could plainly see that they were having a blast. I did not participate or interfere with the organized activities, but rather saw from afar and overheard the excited chatter and stories at meals and on the grounds. I saw first hand the enthusiastic participation at Orthos, Vespers and Liturgy. There were just as many children standing at the two chanter stands as were in the seats. The entire congregation became the choir. We all held Divine Liturgy Hymnals and sang and responded throughout every service. Never have church services gone so quickly, as when we sing and respond through them! The emotion and reverence was infections and transformative. It is something that everyone in our Metropolis should experience. Standing in that chapel, in that beautiful setting, seeing nature and the trees through the big windows and knowing the Christ was standing in our midst must be shared. I am committed Save the Date: Coming October 12, 2013 An adult's fun night of Trivia at St. Vasilios. Come alone or with a team to challenge your memory! Details coming soon. 6 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 2013 Saint Vasilios’ Stewardship ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Men’s Club STEWARDSHIP, A RICH MAN: “A rich man is not who has much but one who gives much. For that remains his forever,” wrote St John Chrysostom. You are invited to be a “Rich Man,” as defined by Chrysostom and give personally to Saint Vasilios by your 2013 Stewardship commitment, for the portion you give “remains yours forever.” May God bless your generosity. As of April 16, 2013 we have 650 stewards pledged for Saint Vasilios. If you have not sent in your PLEDGE for 2013, please do so today. Under our true stewardship system, every member is asked to offer a gift to the church in an amount of his or her own choosing and one that honestly reflects their personal circumstances and ability. Please be mindful that approximately 1000 stewards are asked to sustain our parish budget of $600,000 annually. Thank you for your anticipated response. Below is a listing of the parishioners who have pledged from 5/23/13 through 7/31/13 Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Agouridis Mr. William Andrews Mr. George Apostolides Mrs. Tina Bouchard Mr. & Mrs. George Broufas Mr. & Mrs. Steve Calas Mr. & Mrs. Stephen C. Captain Mr. & Mrs Stefan Celo Mr. Robert Christy Mr. & Mrs. Russell Cooper Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Decoulos Mr Pirro Deftos Mr. & Mrs. George Exarhos Mrs. Mary Franggos Mr. & Mrs. Speros Frangules Ms. Stephanie Frangules Mr. & Mrs Leonidas Gianellis Mrs. Irene Giannis Mr. Dennis Giannis Mr. George Giannis Mrs. Priscilla Giftakis Mr. Demetrios Goulakos Mrs Sharon Gould Mr. Gregory B. Haley Mr. Robert Haley Mrs. Vassy Helas Mrs. Stamatia Joy Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Kachinski Mr. Gregory Kapoglis Mr. James Kardaris Dr. & Mrs. William Kastrinakis Mr. Daniel Katsarakes Mr. Argery Katzounos Mr Theodore Kokoras Mrs. Sharon Kokoras Mr. Jonathan Kokoras Mr. Christopher Kokoras Ms. Emily Korkaris Mr. James Koumarianos Mr. Peter A. Koutzoukis Mr. & Mrs. George Lembidakis Mr. Paul Leontakianakos Mr. Alexandros Litzos Mr. Nikolaos Loris Mr.& Mrs. Peter Mandragouras Mrs. Cathy McDonnell Mr. Mark Metropolis Ms. Elizabeth Murphy Mr. George Naslas Mr. & Mrs. Efthemios Orfanos Mr. Vasilios Panousos Mr. Konstantinos Panousos Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Pappas Mrs. Angelina Pelletier Mr. & Mrs. George T. Poulopoulos Mr. George Psyhogios Mr. Charles Raftell Stasia Roberts Ms. Jennifer Sambatakos Mr. & Mrs. John Sambatakos Mr. Peter Sambatakos Ms. Tanya Sambatakos Rev.&Presv Kyriakos Saravelas Mr. Christopher Scangas Dr. & Mrs. George Scangas Mr. James Scangas Mr. Philip Scangas Mrs. Crystal Silva Mr. & Mrs. Frank Spathanas Ms. Rosalie Spathanas Mr. Demetrios Stephanides Mr. Avraam Stephanides Mrs. Anastacia Stephanides Mrs. Mary Tenedios Mrs. Pauline Tzortzis Ms. Alice Upton Ms. Zina Varelas Mr. Antonios B. Vatousios Mr. George Velonis Dr. Charles Vorrias Mr. George Vromovrisiotis Mrs. Mary Zolotas WINNERS OF THE GOLF TOURNAMENT RAFFLES 1. Tony Maistrellis/Wells Fargo Advisors $1,000.00 2. Scott Speicher $500.00 3. Dimitri Maistrellis $250.00 4. James Chongris/JEDA Management Rd– Of-Golf 5. Spero & Melissa/Matty’s Food & Spirits Red Sox Tickets 6. All State Fire Equipment Rd– Of-Golf 7. Mike Ambeliotis Beverly Gold & Tennis Dinner 8. Mary Rockas North Shore Music Theater 9. John Drivas (Reds) Tickets to New England Revolution 10. Joe Votto 2 Tickets to Men’s Club Xmas/NewYear’s Eve Party 31 30 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 St. Val’s Hoops 2013-2014 Season Through our parish athletic program we seek to provide a truly competitive sporting environment which nonetheless reflects Christian values. Since more than 100 boys and girls participate, we are able to form competitive leagues for both boys and girls comprised entirely of parish teams. In this league, winning is important, but it is not everything; all children, regardless of ability, "make" the team and play in each game. Every child is carefully coached to nurture his/ her self-image and sense of worth. In this supportive and loving atmosphere, even youngsters with little natural ability make remarkable progress in their skills and self-confidence. The boys' program is divided into 2 groups (Junior: age 8 through grade 5 and Intermediate: Grade 5 – Grade 9). The girls group includes all girls age 8 through Grade 9. [There are also boys and girls high school teams that compete with other churches within the Metropolis]. This year we will be hosting clinics during the first weeks of October to get our kids ready for basketball and to better evaluate the players’ abilities so as to make fair teams for the upcoming season. Immediately following the second week of Clinics the Coaches will be placing the players into teams. Players will perform basketball skills and must come to the Clinics and Games prepared to play. We will do our best to place siblings on the same team, but cannot accommodate requests for friends and other relatives. We want to promote children making new and lasting friendships with other members of the St. Vasilios Family. Team practices will be scheduled for the last weeks of October and beginning of November. Games will begin in November. The Turkey Shoot, a fun competition night, will be November 26th . The season runs through the end of February with no games scheduled during Christmas and February school vacation weeks. Games are scheduled Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 6 and 7 pm. The playoffs will be held the first two weeks of March, followed by the always fun League Banquet! We also hasten to remind parents and grandparents that this program is heavily dependent on adult volunteers. While referees are paid professionals, all others providing support and coaching services are drawn from those willing to donate their time and talent. Local businesses also participate in our program by making donations. St. Val’s Youth Basketball registration will be held in September after the first Divine Liturgy in the gym. All children of the parish ages 8 (before Sept 1st) -grade 9 are eligible. The cost is $35 per player $40 per family max. We need volunteers for coaching and assistant coaching if interested or have any questions please contact Steve Stephanides 978-744-8531, Chuck Antoniou chuckant@yahoo.com 617-899-6591 or Tom Gould 978-531-7010. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR YOUTH PROGRAMS We are looking for volunteers to help with youth activities and to get them together for fun and fellowship. If you are College age, young adults or a parent we need you. We have created a calendar for the year September thru June with one meeting and one activity per month. We also have great ideas from past leaders and just need your help to make it happen! Please contact Bonnie Antoniou @617-335-0869 or email sarah62898@yahoo.com for more information, questions or to say you can help offer your time. 7 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Bell Tower Fund Campaign Statistics Total Pledges and Donations: Cash on Hand (rounded to nearest $) Outstanding Pledges To be Paid Remaining Comm Credit Union Pledge 2013 Endowment Grant Philoptochos Donation PTA Donation Kolyva Committee Donation $ 291,000 $ 136,000 $ 10,000 $ 32,000 $ 20,000 $ 5,000 $ 10,000 Total $ 504,000 *Men's Club has committed to donating all the proceeds from its New Year's Eve dinner/dance to the Bell Tower Fund. ****Please note that the architects are finalizing drawings and specifications, to send to qualified contractors for bids. If you or someone you know would like to receive the bid package, please leave your contact information and qualifications with the church office as soon as possible. The architects will evaluate qualifications and provide bidding packages within a few weeks. I Am Glad My Church Needs Money Have you ever heard anyone say: “My church is always asking for money. I wish I could belong to a church that never needed any money.” Surely they don’t mean that. Any church that is alive needs money. Only dead churches do not call on their members for support. If anyone should accuse your church of always needing and calling for money, regard it as a compliment. Invite this person to rejoice with you that you both belong to a live, going concern of Jesus Christ rather than a dead stagnant organization from which the glory of Christ has departed. One father was complaining to another that his son cost him a great deal of money-for books, clothes, lunch, allowance, and tuition. “It’s strange that you feel that,” the other father replied. “My son doesn’t cost me a cent. I haven’t spent a dime on him in over two years, but I sure wish I could.” “Why doesn’t he cost you anything?’ asked the first father. The second father replied, “A little over two years ago he died.” A church that is alive needs the liberal, sacrificial support of those who love it. Only a dead church demands no sacrifice. from the Stewardship Committee 8 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Helping to Keep the Children in the Church BY PSA. NICOLE MITESCU reprinted and brought to you by the Stewardship Committee I remember when I was newly married and had just started attending an Orthodox church. People would complain about how their children were refusing to come to church any more, and how when they left the family home, they often left the church entirely. So this is far from a new problem, and there must be hundreds if not thousands of articles written not only by Orthodox authors, but also by writers in many other religious groups, who are facing the same problem: children are not following their parents’ footsteps in faith. This is clearly a critical issue. No young people means no future for our churches. So I started doing a little thinking about it, and I hope this article will start you thinking about it, too; and perhaps it will start a discussion in your family or in your parish. There are lots of reasons why children choose to leave the church as they grow up. Some of them are related to the church practices – perhaps the services are in a language the children don’t understand; perhaps even if they understand the language they still feel bored or unconnected during the services; perhaps they never learn why coming to church and participating in the Sacraments are essential for our spiritual life; perhaps the priest and other adults don’t listen to their questions, much less answer them. All of these are serious problems that we need to face and address honestly. Are we doing all we can to make the children’s time at church (not only in the services but also in Church School, in other church groups, in their interactions with other parishioners) a positive reason for them to want to stay and keep coming back? However, I was thinking about other more fundamental reasons that the children might choose to leave the church as they grow older, and this involves the family. From a very early age, children pick up on the parents’ attitude about going to church. Is it a really meaningful and important commitment for the parents, or is it something they do from time to time as it fits into their busy schedule? Is it important to arrive on time for the services, or is it okay to come in toward the end of the services, whenever it’s convenient for them? Are the services and Sacraments the fundamental reason to come to church or does it simply provide more of a social time with friends and acquaintances the family doesn’t see during the rest of the week? Does the family pray, or read the Scriptures and Lives of Saints at home? All of these give a basis for the impressions the child might have about church. But (in my opinion at any rate), perhaps the most important element for the child is how the family “feels” about going to church. Is it an “obligation” with the children pushed and scolded to get ready for church, behave themselves in church, and not bother the adults otherwise? If this is the “feeling” the parents communicate to the children about church, surely the children will remember it in a rather sad way. The families I’ve seen over the last thirty years whose children have remained in our churches and have become the next generation in our parishes, seem to share some common traits. For one thing, their faith is an important part of their lives, not only on Sunday but also during the rest of the week. They pray together, they try hard to apply the lessons from the sermons and from their spiritual readings to their lives, and they share their faith with their children. And even more than that, they enjoy their faith and are happy and eager to come to church – for them it is a positive experience, and they look forward to it. They encourage their children and help them to find ways to learn and participate in the services. We need to be honest about what we are asking of our children. There are enormous societal pressures on families these days not to attend church – organized sports activities, invitations from non-church-going friends, just the opportunity to stay home and relax after a busy week. And let’s not sugar-coat a basic issue: many young adults just hit a time when they need to break away from the parents and “leaving the church” is a pretty easy way for them to make a statement. And as they get older, the possibility of a (Continued on page 12) ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Cooking for the Haven from Hunger I am happy and proud that the St Vasilios community has reaffirmed their commitment to helping others less fortunate than ourselves in our very own neighborhoods, by cooking for the Haven from Hunger, a shelter that feeds the hungry, on the 4th Thursday of every month. We will be preparing a church cooked meal on the 4th Wednesday of each month for delivery the next morning to the Haven. Church school teacher, Persephone Santos, has generously taken on this task solo for a number of years. We are now trying to lighten her load and we thank her for all the meals she has prepared. The following is the schedule of the the months chosen by various organizations, individuals and ministries of the church: January February March April May June July August September October November December meal) The Fadel Family PTA Church school James Gass Philoptohos PTA Men's Club Men's Club Daughters of Penelope Parish Council Thanksgiving (City of Peabody prepares the meal) Church School (unless Christmas falls on 4th Thursday, then City prepares the I want to personally thank all the groups in advance for their time and effort for this worthwhile cause. If any parishioner would like to assist in cooking on any particular month, please contact the head of the group above to find out what time they will be preparing the meal. You can call Persephone at 978-531-2121 for more information, or you can also contact Thanasi Pantazelos, apantazelos@gmail.com from the Parish Council, who is our liaison for this ministry. Thank you for participating in this worthwhile ministry and to committing to help those less fortunate than us, My very best, Pam Katsiris 29 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 HEALTHBEAT 28 9 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Organizations & Ministries Dear Parishioners, Last year, the Stewardship Committee distributed an updated copy of our Parish Ministry book to all our parishioners by mail. Annually in this issue of the Orthodox Life , we again publish an outline of our current ministries available to our parishioners. Our goal is to constantly provide our faithful with the spiritual and educational tools needed to successfully serve God. For additional information, you also may look further on our parish web site at www.stvasilios.org and view the PARISH MINISTRY book file on our main web page or come to our church office for an additional written copy. Below is a listing of that is included in the Parish Ministry Book. If you have any questions, please contact the appropriate parishioners listed below or the Church Office at 978-531-0777. Our History in Brief Who is a Parishioner? Stewardship Worship Schedule Priestly Ministry Hospital Visits EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS The Orthodox Life Study Group St. Makrina Women’s Study Group On Becoming an Orthodox Church School Greek School St. Vasilios Scholarship Program YOUTH PROGRAMS Junior GOYA Senior GOYA Altar Boys Myrofores Playgroup St. Val’s Hoops Metropolis of Boston Athletic Ministries Metropolis of Boston Cam (MBC) ADULT FELLOWSHIP Parish Council Philoptochos Society PTA (Parent Teachers Association) St. Val’s Men’s Club St. Methodios Faith & Heritage Retreat Center OUTREACH PROGRAMS St. Stephen’s Ministry Parish Nurse Internet Ministry Religious Resource Center & Bookstore Family Choir Marriage Preparation Program PASTORAL GUIDELINES Fasting Weddings, Divorces, Baptisms, Funerals and Memorials The 12 Major Feast Days of the Orthodox Church Church Positions Regarding the Sanctity of Human Life Contact Information Presiding Priest Rev. Christopher Foustoukos frchris@stvasilios.org Parish Council President Organizations Liaison Office Manager Stewardship Chairman Church School Greek School Principal Altar Boys Myrofores Mrs. Pam Katsiris Mrs. Bonnie Antoniou Mrs. Irene Stephanides Mr. Stephen S. Kalivas Mrs. Sophia Hennessey Mrs. Dina Kalaitzidis Fr. Christopher Foustoukos Mrs. Jan Terzakis Pam@stvasilios.org sarah62898@yahoo.com irene@stvasilios.org steve@stvasilios.org sophenna@yahoo.com greekschool@stvasilios.org frchris@stvasilios.org janterzakis@comcast.net St. Vals’s Hoops Mr. Steve Stephanides 978-744-8531 Philoptochos President PTA President Mrs. Tracey Franggos Mrs. Constance Spack tracey.franggos@perkins1.com cdpap7@yahoo.com St. Val’s Men’s Club President Mr. Chris Grevelis CGrevelis@ebsb.com St. Stephen’s Ministry Deacon Michael Fadel rnkfadel@hotmail.com Parish Nurse Mrs. Sophia Grevelis SKGrevelis@comcast.net Religious Resource Center Mrs. Kaye Nicolakis knicolakis@comcast.net Family choir Mr. Tony Vatousios vatousiosfamily@gmail.com ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 10 Church School Calendar 2013-2014 Scholarships A BRIEF HISTORY Over fifty years ago, a group of St. Vasilios women shared a common desire: that a scholarship be awarded to aid the deserving youth of the church in their pursuit of a college education. They knew that in order to do the most good, this money would not only have to help the current generation, but somehow meet the growing needs of the future. So when the first scholarship of $100.00 was established in June of 1956, it was with the understanding that their work was far from over. This marked the birth of the St. Vasilios P.T.A. Scholarship Program. 27 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 In just ten years, the scholarship grew to an impressive $500.00 dollars and by 1969 the program reached an important milestone with the award of the first annual $1,000.00 scholarship. Under the diligent guidance of Fr. Andrew Demotses, the selfless dedication of the parish and the tireless determination of the P.T.A. members, the scholarship program continued to grow. Today we honor the vision of those women who first established the St. Vasilios Scholarship by awarding thirty-six $1,000.00 scholarships, one $1,500.00 scholarship and one $2,500.00 scholarship to thirtyeight outstanding members of our church who intend to pursue a higher education. September 1 8 15 First day of classes and Blessing of the Church school teachers 22 29 October 6 13 Columbus Day – no classes/YOCAMA Presentation 20 – Teaching Liturgy 27 PRE-K: Children who will turn 4 years old by September 1, 2013 will be eligible to attend the Pre-K Class. Registrations for the PreK students will be mailed out to the parents with a return date of September 2, 2012. Any questions regarding Pre-K students, please contact Carol Spyropoulos at 978-535-7090. K-12 STUDENTS: Last year’s registered students in these grades will receive a letter to report to their assigned classes. Any questions regarding K-8 please contact Sophia Hennessey at 781-248-1416 or email @ sophiahenna@yahoo.com. Any questions regarding the High School program please contact Andrew Constantinou at 978-532-3703. NEW STUDENTS: On Sunday September 9 a registration table will be set up at the Educational Center foyer to register NEW STUDENTS . INACTIVE STUDENTS: If you have a child that has been away for a year or two or more from our Orthodox Christian Religious Education program, do not hesitate to re-register your child. We welcome them and want them back! November 3 10 – Festival – no classes 17 24 December 1– Thanksgiving weekend – no classes 8 15 – Christmas Pageant 22 – Communion Breakfast and Snow day for Pageant 29 – Christmas Vacation – no classes January 5 12 19 26 February 2 9 – Koylva Sunday 16 – President’s Day – no classes 23 March 2 – Godparent’s Sunday 9 – Sunday of Orthodoxy 16 23 30 St. Vasilios, along with the PTA and Fr. Andrew Demotses and Fr. Christopher Foustoukos, is honored to present our young members of our church 35 scholarships totaling over $38,500.00 at our annual Scholarship Banquet on June 14, 2013 at Angelica's Restaurant. The Scholarship Trust Fund has grown from a single $500.00 scholarship to over $38,500.00 over the past 56 years. The Class of 2013 and our returning college recipients have given their time and talents to making St. Vasilios a part of their lives. Congratulations! Registration information April 6 – Independence Day Parade 13 – Palm Sunday – no classes 20 – Easter Sunday – no classes 27 – Back to classes May 4 Field Trip to Hellenic College 11 – Mother’s Day – YES classes 18 – Last day of classes Classes begin SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2013 For your convenience you can also visit the St. Vasilios Website site www.stvasilios.org to download the 2013 Church School registration form for new students Pre-K through Grade 12 , and mail it to: St. Vasilios Church School, 5 Paleologos St., Peabody 01960 or bring it to the Church School Office on September 9. NOTE: Fr. Chris Foustoukos and our dedicated Church School teaching staff are looking forward and ready to welcome our students. The mission of the Religious Education program of St. Vasilios Church School is to embrace all our children in the Orthodox Christian faith and for them to learn the love of God and the Biblical teachings of the Old and New Testaments. We are in need of Church School teachers. We currently have no volunteers for pre-school age. If this position is still open on September 9th, there will be no preschool class this year. Please contact Sophia Hennessey if interested. ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 26 Church School & Religious Education CHURCH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER Train up a child in the way he should go; even and was instrumental in putting together the when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs Christmas Pageant each year. 22:6 Congratulations and best wishes to our 2013 St. St. Vasilios Church School begins on Sunday, Sep- Vasilios High School Graduates: Matt Chigas, Eleni tember 15, 2013. We are excited about this new Coufos, Pamela Coufos, Joanne Frangias, Anastasia school year. Remember, it is important to start Kalivas, Xanthi Pantazelos, Alex Pissios, Kristina your child’s Sunday off by attending the first Divine Santos, Chris Scangas, Eleni Stefanopoulos, Zoe Liturgy. Iacovino, Alyssa Kastrinakis, Dmitria Yeannakopoulos and Nichol Brown. We pray that God We as Orthodox parents, teach our children to live blesses them and keeps them safe as they enter a their faith. We present them to God when they are new chapter in their lives. baptized and we give them their first visible symbol of their faith; their cross. We teach them to Sadly, we take a moment to remember those cherlight their first candle, venerate their first icon, and ished members of our Church School family who take Communion while still in our arms. If we as we lost this past year. Sandra Kessaris was a long parents and church school teachers don’t commit time Kindergarten teacher. Stella Stathos and our time and energy to our church and church Catherine Apostolides taught for some 60 plus school, our children won’t either. If our children years and both were former Church School Direcdon’t, their children won’t. They will have lost a tors. These women will never be forgotten for the living relationship with their Orthodox faith and kindness they showed so many. May their memowith the St. Vasilios community. By coming togeth- ries be eternal. er, parents and teachers can build the next generation of strong Orthodox adults. The Church School As always there is a long list of those whom the is always in need of volunteers. If you are interest- teachers would like to thank. Thank you to Fr. ed in teaching, co-teaching, or helping out in other Chris, Fr. Andrew and Deacon Michael for always ways please contact Sophia Hennesssey, the being there to teach us, inspire us, and support us. Church School Director at 781-334-4686 for more Thank you to Seminarians; Jared, Sampson and Miinformation. chael for joining our classrooms and teaching our children. Also we would like to thank the PTA for At the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year, it their support throughout the years. was decided that the weekly donations from the students would be donated to the Bell Tower Fund. From September to May our devoted, caring teachA goal of $500.00 was set. Congratulations to our ers encourage spiritual growth in the lives of our youth for donating $889.45. This year the Church youngest parishioners. In addition to learning School students will continue to help restore the about our faith, the classes provide an opportunity bell towers and their beautiful St. Vasilios Church. for the children to socialize and share a sense of community with others. Faith, fun and friendship A special thank you to two of our Church School won’t happen unless your child comes to class! We teachers who ‘retired’ this past year. Carol Spy- pray you’ve had a great summer vacation and look ropoulos taught for more than 23 years, mostly in forward to seeing you in September. the Pre-K class. Carol also assisted many teachers with their curriculum. Although retired, Carol will still give of her time and talents. Pam Hutchinson also retired. Pam taught grade 3 for many years 11 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 2013 St. Vasilios Scholarship RECIPIENTS Nicole Brown Alexandra & Constantine Tingus Scholarship $2,500.00 Gina Casey Kostas-Coras Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Matthew Chigas Mary Emeromistis Scholarship $1,000.00 Pamela Coufos John & Ourania Apostolides/Varinos Scholarship $1,000.00 Eleni Coufos Peter & Helen Georgilakis Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Vlasi Duni Catherine Ellen Decoulos Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Vasili Frangias Chris Kalivas Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Joanna Frangias Michael & Rena Orgettas Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Nicole Elizabeth Goggin Catherine & Paul Apostolides Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Kara Hutchison Nicholas William Decoulos Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Steve Karalolos Stella Mattarocchia Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Cosmo Karalolos Michael & Theodora Zolotas Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Nicholas Koen George Chunias Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Alexis Metropoulos Helen and Mary Nickitopoulos Scholarship $1,000.00 Andrew Najjar Leonidas & Eugenia Tsionis Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Alexandra Najjar Vontzalides/Chigas Family Scholarship $1,000.00 Yianno Pantazelos Fr. Andrew & Presvytera Mary Demotses Scholarship $1,000.00 Maria Pantazelos Michael & Cynthia Maniatakos Gargas Scholarship $1,000.00 Athanasios Pantazelos Congressman Nicholas Mavroules Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Xanthi Pantazelos St. Vasilios PTA Scholarship $1,000.00 Nicholas Petromelis Constantine & Markella Lygomenos Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Alexandros Pissios Anthony and Maria Lalikos Memorial Scholarship $2,000.00 Christopher Scangas St. Vasilios PTA Scholarship $1,000.00 Reina Lucy Sekiguchi Stella Kotronis Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Fotakis Sotiri St. Vasilios Men's Club Community Technical Scholarship $1,000.00 Eleni Stefanopoulos John Franggos Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Leonidas Stephanides Odysseus & Helen Demotses Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Leonidas Stephanides Demetrios & Stavroula Panagopoulos Family Scholarship $1,000.00 Victoria Tansey Kanella, Jennie, Andrew, Chris and James Lalikos Memorial Schoalrship $2,000.00 Mary Votto James Kallas Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Demetra Votto John D. & Sophia Maihos Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Joseph Votto St. Vasilios Men’s Club Scholarship $1,000.00 Michael Warren Stephen Boulakes Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 Dimitria Yeanakopoulos Peter & Sophia Halekas Scholarship $1,000.00 Dorothy Zachariadis Christine Theo Memorial Scholarship $1,000.00 12 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Helping to Keep the Children in the Church (Continued from page 8) “mixed marriage” with the other spouse being nonOrthodox is quite high, leading to a pull in other directions. There are also sad situations in church where members find themselves in bitter disputes with other parishioners. Even if they don’t know the causes, the children pick up on the tension and unhappiness in what should be a loving environment; and if there is a disconnect between what the adults say and how they actually behave, the children are quick to label the adults as “hypocrites” and the faith therefore false. So we need to recognize that what we are asking of our children is not easy, and if we can’t provide them with adequate support and try our best to “live what we preach,” we are letting them down in a big way. On the other hand, there are families who come faithfully in spite of problems in their church and find a way to overcome any negativity, and indeed bring light and love to the rest of the parish. And there are children whose parents are not really connected to their church by their faith, but who find a mentor or friend in an adult, perhaps the priest or a Church School teacher or a grandparent, and find a deep faith of their own in that way. God works in mysterious ways indeed. So what are some ways we can help our children grow in our faith and remain in our churches? We can give them the best instruction possible; we can bring them to all the services; we can teach them to cook, sing and dance according to our own traditions. And all that will (or at least might) help. But just like raising children in general, there is no simple “one way”. And I am no expert – in our own family, of our three grown children, only one attends an Orthodox church regularly at this point. But my thought is that the bottom line for children has to be in the positive experience they find at church, and perhaps most important of all, how the family as a whole makes their church experience a happy, meaningful and spiritually enriching part of their lives. Then we beg God’s forgiveness for our mistakes and failings, and add a lot of prayers for the spiritual safety of our children as they grow up! Inquirers Study Group Have you ever wished you could attend an introductory class on the Orthodox Faith? Would you like to learn more about your faith? Are you interested in perhaps becoming Orthodox? You can find answers to these questions and more by attending the Inquirer’s Class that will begin meeting on Tuesday evenings from 7:00-8;00 beginning on September 10th. This group will meet for ten weeks. To reserve your spot in this informative discussion group please call the Church Office 978-531-0777. Bible Study -Orthodox Life The Orthodox Life Study Group will begin another fall session on Tuesday, September 10th. This group will be gathering to study the book of Revelation. We will meet on Tuesday afternoons from 2:30-4:00 in the Board Room. Please remember five points necessary for studying scripture. First is faith: a commitment, resolve and acceptance of Christ into our life. Second is prayer: to have our life be in communion with God. This kind of relationship makes our hearts and minds receptive to God’s written word. Next is study: which helps us understand the truth in the scriptures. Fourth is application: the gospel is not a Gospel unless you live it. Finally is witness: sharing the Good News not only intellectually but spiritually as well. Please feel free to join us! St. Makrina Study Group The St. Makrina women’s study group will begin meeting on Wednesday October 2nd from 9:30 to – 11:00 a.m. The class will run for 8 weeks and is open to women of all ages. Please come and join us. If you would like more information you can speak with Presv. Claire @ 617-957-0175 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 25 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 24 Greek School Upcoming Performance: Dance Practice Friday, September 6th 3:30 International Festival Peabody Square Sunday, September 8th Time TBA We are interested in expanding our Greek School Program by adding an Introductory Class for children 4 years of age to meet once a week and also to offer an Adult Course on either weeknights or weekends. If you are interested please contact Dina Kalaitzidis at greekschool@stvasilios.org End of Year Program & 6th Grade Graduation ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 YOCAMA MISSION TRIP 2013 Young Orthodox Christian American Mission Adventures Trip to New Mexico 13 14 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 2013 ST. VASILIOS FAMILY PICNIC A GREAT SUCCESS Our Greek Gamily Picnic was once again a fabulous success!! We would like to extend a thank you to all who volunteered and attended. Heartfelt congratulations and BIG THANK YOU to the Picnic Committee. KAI TOU XRONOU!! We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincerest thanks to all our donors and wonderful volunteers for their generosity and assistance in making our 2013 St. Vasilios Greek Family Picnic at Winter Island a huge success. Donations ranged from food and supplies, delicious pastries, lifting and toting, cooking and food prep, serving with a smile and monetary support. Every gift of time, treasure and talent, large or small made the day possible. You have all helped us show that our community is vibrant, that we can join together to create a festive and successful event and have fun and fellowship doing it. We look forward to more successes in the future! In Christ, Bessie Silva, Picnic Committee Chairs Pam Katsiris Parish Council President George Karavedos James Maravelias New England Meat Market George Nikolouzos Old Neighborhood Foods Pargas Family Parish Council Philoptohos Prime Roast Beef Petrillo's Piazza Produce John and Helene Rogers Sandra Ruggeri + family Pissios Family 23 Greek School The St. Vasilios Greek School has functioned continuously since the founding of our parish. The Greek School is the oldest educational program within the church. The school offers the youth of our community knowledge of the Greek language, a love for the Orthodox Faith, and an appreciation for the culture and history of the Greek people. Our students build strong bonds with their classmates that last a lifetime. We will have an open registration this year, you can visit the church website www.stvasilios.org to download the registration form and bring it to the office at your convenience, Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Greek School will begin on Wednesday, September 11th with an Agiasmos Service at 3:30 p.m. in the church. Classroom assignments will be announced at the end of the service. Tuition for the 2013-2014 School Year Tuition for St. Vasilios members in good standing: Pre-K: $100 per student Kindergarten-6th grade: $300 per student $500 maximum per family Tuition for members in good standing at another parish: Pre-K: $150 per student Kindergarten-6th grade: $350 per student $550 maximum per family Must provide documentation of good standing to the church office Again we hope you accept our deepest and heartfelt appreciation. Andreas Produce Bonnie and Chuck Antoniou Michael Bresnahan Carl Michael Salon/Athene Hennesey Catherine Ciano Community Credit Union D'amatas Pizza Finishing Touch Nails Garden City Pub Glama Furs Giovanni's Tewksbury Pauline and Charles Halepakis In the Cut Barber Shop ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Stephanides Families Super Seven Subs, Lynn Louisa's Pizza Brandon Simpson St. Val's Men's Club Maria Tsouvalas Joe Votto James Yeannakopoulos Winter Island Park Staff Salem Mayor's Office We thank all the organizations, ministries and volunteers. Please know if we did not mention you by name it was an unintentional oversight and we appreciate all that helped make this great! Tuition for non-members of a parish: Pre-K: $300 per student Kindergarten-6th grade: $500 per student $850 maximum per family Tuition includes books If you have any questions regarding the Greek School program you can contact Principal Dina Kalaitzidis at greekschool@stvasilios.org. Greek School consists of 8 grades Pre-K through 6th, open to students in grades Kindergarten through 7th grade in American School. Children entering Kindergarten can enroll in the Pre-School class. The Pre-School class will meet every Wednesday. Kindergarten through 6th grade will meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3:30-5:00 Our highly qualified and experienced teaching staff comes together to provide our community’s children with knowledge of their heritage and Greek language. The staff adjusts the curriculum to the needs and abilities of our children who come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Our curriculum consists of conversational skills, culture, reading, religion, writing and dance. In addition to this students perform dance at a number of church and city events throughout the school year. If you have any questions regarding the Greek School program you can contact Principal Dina Kalaitzidis at greekschool@stvasilios.org. We look forward to working with your children this year! For Greek School news and pictures visit: http://stvasiliosgreekschool.shutterfly.com 22 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Greek School news Opportunity Knocks Each September, opportunity knocks for every Greek Orthodox child, the opportunity of learning a second language, Greek history and the rudiments of Orthodox faith. Our fast-moving world is demanding the knowledge of two and three languages and public education is even now initiating language courses in the elementary grades. How fortunate and advanced a youngster is when he has the head start that attendance at Greek School can give him. No other language offers comparable fundamental training to all tongues as does Greek. Even more important is the fact that both in high school and college knowledge of Greek will be a decidedly strong asset in the mastery of English vocabulary, for over 35 percent of the English language has Greek derivatives. Unfortunately, however, we live in a world of material and superficial values that often lure us into believing that other activities are more important. Music and dancing lessons, baton twirling, TV, athletics, school clubs, etc., compete with Greek Schools for valuable time. They are all feeble excuses for non-Greek learning and when stripped of their glamour really offer very little in comparison to the lifelong contribution given to each child by the Greek School curriculum. No child need to be deprived of music lessons, athletics or after-school activities because of Greek School; only the degree of participation will be affected. Children of today must learn to discriminate and choose widely from the multitude of activities available to them and in making such choices for their children, parents must ask themselves the simple question: “Of all the opportunities available to my children, which ones will contribute the most to their future success and happiness?” The easiest choice is not necessarily the best choice, for nothing worthwhile comes easy and easy things are seldom worthwhile. Moreover, it has become clear over the years that those children who are exposed to Greek School usually migrate to junior choir and to junior GOYA and subsequently into the senior groups of these organizations. Through Greek School, Greek Orthodox youth find friends of similar sympathies and aspirations. Such associations benefit Orthodoxy obviously, but the enhancing of the language is also their natural product. No child will ever regret attending Greek School, but those who do not attend may in future years bitterly regret the choice their parents made denying them this privilege. Every Greek Orthodox home with children of Greek School age must make that important decision. St. Vasilios Greek School ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 15 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 ST. VASILIOS BOOKSTORE AND RESOURCE CENTER 16 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 21 20 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 17 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 HELP NEEDED FOR OUR NOVEMBER FESTIVAL We need every parishioner to volunteer some time (even ONE HOUR) to make our Festival another great success! Below is the list of volunteer opportunities. Please contact the appropriate person to GET INVOLVED! Set-up / Clean-up Baking Kitchen Prep Kafeneio / Pastry Shop Bessie Silva Ruthie Morfis Steve Stephanides 978-771-2119 978-531-8655 978-744-8531 FOOD DONATIONS If you would like to donate food for the festival, please contact Jim Limberakis at 617-694-5022 or 978-535-0351 Steve Stephanides at 978-744-8531 for a complete list of items needed. BOOTH RENTALS If you’re interested in showcasing your own items for sale at the Festival, please contact Tina Manolakos at 978741-7547 or Bessie Silva at 978-771-2119 on renting a table. COUNTRY STORE The Country Store is seeking donations of baked items and other goods to be sold at the Festival. For more information, please contact Persephone Santos at 798-531-2121. SOUVENIR JOURNAL The Souvenir Journal is a great way to advertise your business or send a greeting in honor or memory of a loved one. For more information on placing an ad in the journal, please contact Meni Frangias at neasmirni8615@aol.com or 978-532-5782 (Please see following page). SKEWERING We will be skewering for the Festival on Wednesday, November 6th at 6.00p in the Educational Center. To volunteer, please call Steve Stephanides at 978-744-8531. As most of you know, while Church School is in session, parents, grandparents and friends gather in the Rev Andrew Demotses Community Center for fellowship and refreshments. These “coffee hours” are a place for us to reconnect with our St. Vasilios family, celebrate joys and be comforted during loss. The St. Val’s PTA supplies and staffs our time together with volunteers, but has always welcomed and encouraged anyone from the community to sponsor a week. These sponsorships help defray the costs of paper goods and supplies. You can use these days to remember loved ones on their birthday, anniversary, name day, christening, celebrating a wedding or mourning at a funeral or memorial service, or just for the good health of family and friends. events and improvements that effect student classrooms and experience. This year we will be offering FULL SPONSORSHIP for $150 with no other sponsors and no donation baskets placed on the tables, or $50 for a PARTIAL SPONSORSHIP. There may be multiple sponsors on such days, and a free will basket will be in place. We also welcome any homemade treat, fruit platter or sweet you would like to provide for the event. Your sponsorship will be listed in the Sunday Bulletin that is distributed in church and placed in a frame on the table of treats. We ask that you consider sponsoring a coffee hour in the near future or in the alternative, be generous at the free will baskets! Please contact Louisa Simpson at louisa.brandon@gmail.com or 978-774-2689 to Just as the church and families have been feeling the reserve your week. squeeze of the slow economy, rising costs and limited incomes, the PTA has also been struggling with the Also we are looking for volunteers to staff the Coffee continued pressures of financing our weekly fellow- Hour. We will have sign ups the first weeks of ship. The weekly cost to put forth refreshments is church school or you can contact any of the PTA ofapproximately $250. This accounts for coffee and ficers. necessary condiments, donuts, muffins, and paper goods. We operate at a loss each and every week and it has become increasingly more difficult to subsidize. In addition, we try to focus our hard won fundraising dollars on student centered programming, FESTIVAL PLANNING MEETINGS The following meetings are open to all parishioners to help with our November festival, Tuesday August 13th 6pm parlor room Wednesday Sept 11th 6pm parlor room Wednesday Oct 9th 6pm parlor room Wednesday Oct 23rd 6pm parlor room Any questions call Bessie Silva 978-771-2119 or email bessiesilva@gmail.com International Festival St. Vasilios will be participating in the City of Peabody’s annual International Festival on Sunday, September 8th. If you are interested in making a donation for this event, please contact Pam Katsiris at 978-740-2449 or Bessie Silva at 978-771-2119. We will be skewering for the International Festival on Thursday, September 5, at 6 p.m. in the Educational Center. Please contact Steve Stephanides at 978-744-8230 to volunteer. All are welcomed to assist. FOR RENT: Location with plenty of parking! Minutes from Peabody Square! Great space for a dancing school, pre-school, office or whatever you want. This space has direct off street access to the building. Two floors featuring full kitchen, 2 baths and plenty of storage. First floor features three large rooms, currently used as class rooms totaling 1320 square feet, with access to private grassy courtyard. Second level, one big room with dividers is 1476 square feet and includes the kitchen. Extra tall ceilings, huge windows and very bright. Floors can be rented together or separately with private access to each. Landlord to pay electric and water. Tenant to pay for gas heat. Come see! Please contact Evelyn Rockas at cell: 617 256-8500 email: evelyn.rockas@nemoves.com website: www.northshorerealestatebyevelyn.com/ 18 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 September 2013 Sun 1 8 am Orthros 9 am Liturgy 8Nativity of Mon 2 Tue 3 12 pm International Festival 15 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy First Day of Church School Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent 22 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent 29 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent Ministries Sunday Pie sale 4 Thu 5 October 2013 Fri 6 Sat Sun Mon 7 Labor Day 9 Orthodox Life 2:30 pm 6 pm Prep for International Festival 10 7 pm Bell Tower Committee Orthodox Life 2:30 pm Inquirer’s 7 pm 7 pm Building Committee 16 17 11 12 13 First Day of Greek School 14 Holy Cross Orthros 8 am Liturgy 9 am 6 pm Functions Committee 19 20 21 Inquirer’s 7 pm 23 24 7 pm Bell Tower Committee 30 7 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent Orthodox Life 2:30 pm 7 pm Bylaws Committee 6 7 pm Parish Council 18 13 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent Orthodox Life 2:30 pm Inquirer’s 7 pm 26 27 28 Church School Pie Baking 20 Teaching Liturgy 27 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent 2 St. Maktrina 9:30-11:00 am 8 9 Inquirer’s 7 pm Thu Fri Sat 3 4 5 10 11 12 6 pm Trivia Night 6 pm Functions Committee 7 pm Bell Tower Committee 7 pm Building Committee 7 pm Parish Council 14 15 16 Columbus Day Office Closed Orthodox Life 2:30 pm No Greek School Inquirer’s 7 pm 17 18 19 24 25 26 Vespers Somerville 7pm Bylaws Committee 21 22 23 Orthodox Life 2:30 pm 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Parish Sign-Up for Time & Talent Wed Inquirer’s 7 pm Orthodox Life 2:30 pm YOCAMA Presentation/ No Sunday School 25 Tue 1 Office Closed Theotokos Winter Hours 8 am Orthros 9 am 1st Liturgy 10:30 am 2nd Liturgy Wed 19 ORTHODOX LIFE - August/September 2013 Inquirer’s 7 pm 7 pm Bell Tower Committee 28 St. Demetrios Orthros 8 am Liturgy 9 am 6 pm Functions Committee 7 pm Parish Council 29 30 31 National Clergy Retreat Until November 1st 6 pm Functions Committee