June 2013 - St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church

The Desert
Messenger
“Behold, I send My messenger before Your Face, who shall prepare Your way...” (Matthew 11:10)
Volume 11, Issue 6
From
Father
John
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, Las Vegas, NV
June 2013
“But when the Counselor comes, Whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit
of truth, Who proceeds from the Father, He will bear witness to Me . . .” (John 15:26)
Beloved in Christ:
Χριστος Ανεστη! This year the Feast of Holy Pentecost falls on Sunday, June 23, the day on
which the Orthodox Christian Church commemorates – in fulfillment of our Lord’s promise – the descent of
the Holy and Life-giving Spirit as tongues of fire upon the Apostles. On this Sunday, fifty days after the
Resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ, the Divine Economia – that is, God’s plan of salvation for mankind
– came full circle as the Spirit of truth was poured forth upon the Holy Apostles for the growth of His Holy
Church and thereby His Kingdom.
By the Gift of the Holy Spirit, the Apostles were empowered from on high to
fulfill the Great Commission of Christ, going near and far to make new disciples
through Baptism in the Name of the Holy Trinity and teaching the necessity of
following His Commandments. They went from place to place preaching the
“Good News” of the Risen Lord, in the native tongue of those hearing the Word,
traveling even to unchartered areas to increase the number of those being saved
and establish new communities of faith, and in the process, suffering much
persecution – yet, for all their sufferings, they were filled abundantly with a
holy joy and peace.
By God’s loving will, the Apostolic mission continues still today in the
Orthodox Christian Church, which is the true and living receptacle of the Holy
Spirit – and it is through the Church that each believer personally becomes the
temple of the Life-giving Spirit by the ancient worship and prayers, the unchanging teachings of Jesus Christ
and the Holy Mysteries. As our patron, St. John the Baptist foretold, Christ would Baptize “with the Holy
Spirit” (Matthew 3:11): Through the Church, which is the mystical Body of Christ, we the faithful received
that very Holy Spirit at the moment we were Chrismated (this Sacrament is appropriately referred to as our
“personal Pentecost”).
As the same “Holy Fire” that illuminated and empowered the Holy Apostles has been given to us as well, we
must now truthfully discern how we are actively participating in their sacred mission. If we are honest, we
all need to be recharged in our faith, and so the Feast of Pentecost allows for yet another opportunity for us
to rekindle our walk with the Lord and life in His Church: Quite literally, on that day as we bend our knees
in prayer (and more importantly, “the knees of our heart”) during the Kneeling Vespers which follows the
Divine Liturgy, we will be renewed as vessels of the Holy Spirit.
May the renewed Gift of the Holy Spirit be unto our spiritual growth and restore or awaken our love and
genuine desire to serve God, His Church and His world: Come and abide in us, Holy Spirit, cleanse us of all
impurity and save our souls!
With love in Christ,
The Desert Messenger
WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Sundays: 8:45 am Orthros ~ 10:00 am Divine Liturgy
Church School Commencement on Sunday, June 2
Sunday, June 2/5th Sunday of Pascha/
Saturday, June 22/Saturday of Souls
The Samaritan Woman/St. Nikephoros
8:00 am Orthros ~ 9:00 am Divine Liturgy
Orthros: Tone Four
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 20:1-10
Epistle: Acts 11:19-30
Gospel: John 4:5-42
Sunday, June 9/6th Sunday of Pascha/
The Blind Man/St. Cyril of Alexandria
Orthros: Tone Five (First Plagal)
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 20:11-18
Epistle: Acts 16:16-34
Gospel: John 9:1-38
Wednesday, June 12
5:00 pm Orthros ~ 6:00 pm Divine Liturgy
(Holy Ascension of Our Lord)
Epistle: Acts 1:1-12
Gospel: Luke 24:36-53
Thursday, June 13/Holy Ascension of Our Lord
(Liturgy Celebrated on Wednesday Evening)
Sunday, June 16/7th Sunday of Pascha/
Holy Fathers of the 1st Ecumenical Council
Orthros: Tone Six (Second Plagal)
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 21:1-14
Epistle: Acts 20:16-18, 28-36
Gospel: John 17:1-13
Happy Father’s Day!
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
Gospel: John 21:14-25
Memorial follows Liturgy
Sunday, June 23/HOLY PENTECOST
Orthros: Festal
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 20:19-31
Epistle: Acts 2:1-11
Gospel: John 7:37-52; 8:12
Kneeling Vespers following Liturgy
No Fasting All Week
Monday, June 24/Monday of the Holy Spirit/
Nativity of St. John the Baptist
8:00 am Orthros ~ 9:00 am Divine Liturgy
Epistle: Ephesians 5:8-19
Gospel: Luke 1:1-25, 57-68, 76, 80
Saturday, June 29/Holy Apostles Peter and Paul
8:00 am Orthros ~ 9:00 am Divine Liturgy
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 11:21-33; 12:1-9
Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19
Sunday, June 30/1st Sunday of Matthew/All Saints/
Synaxis of the 12 Holy Apostles
Orthros: Tone Eight (Fourth Plagal)
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): Matthew 28:16-20
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 4:9-16
Gospel: Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38; 19:27-30
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos
made his annual Palm Sunday pilgrimage to
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
on April 27-28. On Saturday evening,
His Eminence prayed the Great Vespers of
Palm Sunday, and met with parish members
in Kokkos Hall following the service.
On Sunday, he celebrated the Hierarchical
Liturgy for the Great Feast, and then in the
evening the First Bridegroom Service.
John Michael Boyer, a seminarian and
Metropolis Proto-Psaltis, also joined us.
(Photo by Amy Bauck)
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The Desert Messenger
“COME, TAKE PART IN THE VISION
AND GROWTH OF OUR CHURCH!”
Notice of Parish Assembly
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Immediately Following the Divine Liturgy
in Panos Hall!
AGENDA:
Call to Order/Opening Prayer
 Election of Assembly Chair
Approval of Assembly Minutes: November 18, 2012
 Assistant Priest
 Financial & Stewardship Reports
 Greek Food Festival: September 27-29, 2013
 Building & Maintenance Report
 For the Good of the Parish
 Adjournment/Closing Prayer


All Pledged Stewards in Good Standing for 2013
are encouraged to participate at this vital Assembly!
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
June 2: Church School Commencement
Ushers: Adam Bieker, John Fotopoulos, Stephanie Demoleas, George Bochanis, Jim Monoyudis and
Demetrious Asim
Fellowship: Folk Dance Groups
June 9: Parish Assembly
Ushers: Tami Stefanatos, Ramona Tasios, John Fotopoulos, Paula Kelesis, Stacy Mavrantonis and Jeremy Bauck
Fellowship: Pan-Arcadians
June 16: Fathers Day
Ushers: Jim Monoyudis, Demetrious Asim, John Koutsulis, George Bochanis, Stephanie Demoleas and
Adam Bieker
Memorial: Peter Pappas (9 months); Elias Spanopoulos (1 year).
Fellowship: Dina Delalis
June 23: HOLY PENTECOST
Ushers: Stacy Mavrantonis, Paula Kelesis, Ramona Tasios, Tami Stefanatos, Jeremy Bauck and
John Fotopoulos
Fellowship: Forerunners ~ The Seniors of St. John the Baptist
June 30: All Saints/Holy Apostles
Ushers: Jeremy Bauck, John Koutsulis, Adam Bieker, Jim Monoyudis, Paula Kelesis and George Bochanis
Fellowship: Orthodox Connection Las Vegas
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Reverend Fathers and Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
CHRISTOS ANESTI!
Thanks to all who gave of their time and resources in making this holiday a beautiful
one. Don’t ever think that your support and dedication go unnoticed.
Congratulations to the newly elected Philoptochos Officers; with your continued service
I know that this community will move toward an even stronger support of our Church programs. On behalf
of the entire Parish Council and St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, I want to thank Geri Kypreos
for her tireless work in philanthropy and service to the ministry. We hope and pray that God always keeps
her and her family in good health and she continues to be active in the Philoptochos and her Church.
In an ongoing effort to keep our stewards informed, I want to make all of you aware that the Parish
Council is pursuing to bring into our Church the services of a full-time Assistant Priest. This in no means is
meant to replace either of our “retired” priests, Father Dean or Father Paul. As you are aware, these priests
have been assisting Father John and will continue to do so. They are very well respected within our
community and their willingness to come on Sundays and help where needed has been exemplary. The
purpose and reason for a second full-time priest has become imperative if we plan to advance our position
with the youth ministries and functions related to keeping our children connected with the Church, so that
they will continue to be active as adults.
We know that Father John has made himself readily available to serve our spiritual and family needs
through meetings, sacraments or visitations, whether in time of joy or sadness. St. John the Baptist Greek
Orthodox Church is one of the largest parishes in the San Francisco Metropolis; as such, there is no way for
one priest to effectively meet our various ministry needs. With a younger priest to assist Father John, by
God’s grace we will be able to give all our ministries the best attention possible. I have personally visited
parishes smaller than ours that have two full-time clergymen and it is amazing to see the attendance and
involvement of the youth.
We plan to have this as one of the most important agenda items for the upcoming Parish Assembly on
Sunday, June 9, following Liturgy. Please support us on this matter and know that with all of our prayers,
efforts and continued hard work, we can accomplish anything as a strong Christian family in Christ.
May God Bless All of Us and Again . . . CHRISTOS ANESTI!
John Fotopoulos, Parish Council President
Parish
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Photo by David Collins
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Christos Anesti! Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
Before we look back on the past two years, we must begin with many thanks to
all of the ladies who gave their time, talents and treasures during our Holy Week
activities. Our ladies set up and served at the Palm Sunday Luncheon, assisted as
ushers during the services, dyed the Red Eggs, baked Tsourekia and Koulourakia, and sold pastries for the
Agape Picnic. To all of you who lent a helping hand whenever you could, we cannot express enough
gratitude: Thank You!
It has been a great honor and privilege to serve this parish as President of Philoptochos the past two
years. I want to thank my fellow Board Members: Kiki Mavrantonis, Georgia Kostopoulos, Catherine
Manolakos, Dora Hart, Dianne Bacon, Marcie Karas, April Karalis, Ernestine Kachikis, Donna Maland, Chloe
Christian, Alexia Chandrinos, Litza Smith, Bernadette Anthony, Andrea Takas, Cheryl Pandelis, Joanne
DeMangus and Bessie Chachas. As always, this community has been generous to us, allowing us to fulfill all of
our National and Metropolis obligations; additionally, we placed a leaf for the donor tree in the new National
Philoptochos Building recognizing our chapter and our beloved St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church.
We had a variety of hands-on projects which included:
*Assembling packages for our troops overseas which included an Orthodox prayer book;
*Providing teddy bears and blankets as well as activity bags for the older children at UMC;
*Making over 300 sandwiches for the homeless;
*Supporting Dress for Success with over 100 suits provided by the women who attended our
Membership Tea;
*Providing over 8,000 meals with donations made to Three Square Food Bank;
*Supported the shoe voucher program for at-risk schools in Clark County;
*Supported the Clark County reading program;
*Supported Camp Agape as well as our own Camp Cartwheel;
*Supported a helping hands clinic for children who need vaccinations;
*A new project to benefit Rancho High School Students;
*Last but not least, for the past two years Philoptochos continued to help support Father John’s
Discretionary Account which offers aid to those in need in our community, the Kokkos Scholarship
Fund and other ministries within our parish.
I offer a special thanks to everyone who attended the President’s Dinner; it was a lovely affair.
As you can see it has been a very busy two years for all of us and we could not have accomplished this
without the whole community coming together. I hope you will welcome Bernadette Anthony as the next
Philoptochos President and her new Board. ~ Geri Kypreos
Philoptochos
News
The 2013-15
Philoptochos
Board took
the Oath of
Office on
Mothers Day,
Sunday,
May 12.
Photo by
Jeremy Bauck
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Congratulations, Graduates!
George Chomakos
George Chomakos, son of Dean and Tammy Chomakos,
will graduate with his Advanced Honors Diploma from West
Career and Technical Academy, where he has been enrolled in the
Sports Medicine program. George has been accepted (and is
undecided) to both Boise State University and UNLV, to pursue
his Bachelors in Athletic Training; he eventually plans to achieve a
Masters in Kinesiology.
George was a recent recipient of an AHEPA Academic
Scholarship and the National Utility Contractors Association
Scholarship. George has been very active from a young age at St.
John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, participating in Church
School, Youth Choir, Altar Servers, Greek Folk Dance (both as a
dancer and director) and GOYA President.
Lindsey Flangas
Lindsey Flangas, daughter of Gary and Amanda
Flangas, is graduating from Faith Lutheran High School as
Valedictorian of her class. She will be attending the
University of Texas to pursue an engineering degree.
During her senior year she was a participant in a
Service Leadership class at Faith Lutheran that goes out into
the Las Vegas area weekly for community service. Lindsey has
been an active member and officer for six years with
Opportunity Village Kids, an organization that has bimonthly
activities with young adults with intellectual disabilities.
Lindsey has participated in Holy Week and Pascha
services as a Myrrh-Bearer and in GOYA, traveling to
California to represent our parish in volleyball tournaments.
Maritza Kelesis
Maritza Kelesis, daughter of George Kelesis and Sandra
Robelledo, goddaughter and niece of Paula Kelesis and granddaughter to
Dina Kelesis, is graduating from Bishop Gorman High School on June
2 as Valedictorian. She was in Gaels on Broadway for three years; she
also was in Honor Society all four years of High School.
Maritza traveled to Europe, Africa and throughout America and
found different cultures and geographic areas interesting and plans to
continue to travel. Maritza will continue her academic career at UCLA
this fall, majoring in the sciences with her final goal to become a
physician.
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The Desert Messenger
Class of 2013!
Alexandra Kilgore
Alexandra (Alex) Kilgore, daughter of Richard and Eleni
Kilgore, will graduate from Centennial High School on June 7. Alex
participated in theater, choir and acting throughout her school
career. She has also competed in junior dragster racing, singing, and
beauty/talent pageants as a hobby; she has won various school awards,
racing awards, and holds state and national pageant titles. Alex also
volunteers her time helping with special needs children in an early
childhood classroom. Alexandra babysits special needs children too.
Alexandra has grown up in St. John Church and her
involvement includes GOYA, Church School (attending from
Kindergarten), feeding the homeless, collecting items for homeless
teens, the annual GOYA Lenten Retreat, Myrrh-Bearers and
volunteering at the Greek Food Festival.
Alex will attend CSN in the fall, as she begins the next step in
her journey to becoming an early childhood special education teacher.
Alexandra Lemelson
Alexandra Lemelson graduated Cum Laude with
a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Harvard
Extension School. Alexandra will be continuing her
Graduate studies in Clinical Psychology this summer at
the Harvard Extension School. Her future plans include
working with children and pursuing her Doctoral degree
in Clinical Psychology at Harvard.
Alexandra is the daughter of Kathy Lemelson,
mother of Matthew Lemelson, and the sister of Father
Emmanuel Lemelson.
Talia Orlando
Talia Orlando, daughter of Alleck and Jennifer
Orlando, will graduate from Centennial High School,
receiving both an Advanced Honors Diploma and High
Honors Award. She enjoyed participating in her school
through community service, choir, theater productions and
student council; she lettered in Leadership and Academics.
Talia proudly accepted admission to Arizona State
University as a New American University Scholar, receiving
the Dean's Award Scholarship. She will major in Social and
Behavioral Sciences, and cannot wait to be a Sun Devil.
Talia has participated in many St. John Church
ministries, including Youth Choir, Church School, and
especially loved dancing and directing with the Greek Folk Dance groups. She will continue her Church
activities at St. Katherine in Chandler, AZ. Talia wishes to thank AHEPA for awarding her a scholarship.
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The Desert Messenger
God Bless Our Graduates!
Demetrios Philippou
Demetrios Philippou, son of Demetri and Luanne Philippou, is
graduating from Shadow Ridge High School with an Advanced Diploma.
In addition to his studies, he was on the baseball team throughout high
school, lettering his Junior and Senior years. He has been involved with
baseball in the community with the Miracle League, assisting special needs
children in the sport.
Demetrios has been active at St. John the Baptist Church in Church
School, the Greek Folk Dance ministry and GOYA. He volunteers each
year for the Greek Food Festival.
Demetrios plans to attend St Katherine College in Encinitas this
fall and has received a baseball scholarship. He will pursue a degree in
Business/Management.
Alexander Szukiewicz
Alexander Szukiewicz, son of Joseph and Justina (Jennia)
Szukiewicz, is graduating from Foothill High School with an Advanced
Diploma. Alex was on Varsity Football and Varsity Bowling. He plans
to attend UNLV in the fall with an undeclared major for now, but he
hopes to eventually work for the FBI.
From a young age, Alex has served the Church as Altar Server
and was appointed Altar Captain the past two years. He has also
participated in GOYA and volunteers each year at the Greek Food
Festival. Alex is the recipient of both the Kokkos and AHEPA
scholarships this year.
Top Honors for Christopher!
Christopher Zimmerman, son of
Paul and Angela Zimmerman, received the
Clifford J. Lawrence Award, in
recognition of his leadership, citizenship,
scholarship and student involvement at
his junior high school. Congratulations,
Christopher!
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“Any circumstance in which a
man finds himself
unwillingly is a prison for
him. So be content with
whatever circumstances you
may now be in, lest, by being
ungrateful, you punish
yourself unwittingly.”
~ St. Anthony the Great
The Desert Messenger
Our Community Registry
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
Baptized into Christ: Na Mas Zisoun!
5300 S. El Camino Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Nicoletta (Aubree Jo), daughter of Christina Blevins,
on May 12, 2013. Godparent: Nick Bilikopoulos.
Rev. Father John Hondros
Evangelos (Angelo), son of Joseph and Christine Pierro,
on May 26, 2013. Godparent: Maria-Elena Pierro.
Chrismation
Athanasios (Thomas) Mitchell on May 19, 2013. Sponsor: Adam Bieker
Karen Rawlinson
Administrative Assistant
Maria Kakavulias
Business Administrator
Tom Welsh
Facilities and Catering Manager
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Marriage: Na Zisete!
Peter Walid Nesheiwat and Ida Anna Ohan on May 11, 2013.
Koumbaros: David Walid Nesheiwat.
Nicholas Minakis and Tanya Kevo on May 18, 2013.
Koumbaros: Theodore P. Manasses.
Telephone: (702) 221-8245
FAX: (702) 221-9167
E-mail:
frjohn@vegasgreekorthodox.com
Website: vegasgreekorthodox.com
Parish Council: John Fotopoulos
Joseph Anthony Pierro, Jr. and Christine Suzanne Fortuna
on May 25, 2013. Koumbara: Rhonda Kay Pierro.
Philoptochos: Bernadette Anthony
Evangelos Palios and Tania Hermes on May 25, 2013.
Koumbaros: George Vlahos.
Chanters/Youth Choir:
Presvytera Maria Hondros
Fallen Asleep in the Lord: Eternal Memory
Church School:
Eileen Koutsulis
Eftie Grabovoi on May 4, 2013. Funeral on May 11.
Altar Servers:
Alex Szukiewicz
Choir: Athena Mertes
Stewardship Committee:
Jennia Szukiewicz
Notes from the Loft
Christos Anesti! Thank you again to the Choir for the
beautiful hymns sung during Holy Week and Pascha!
The Youth Choir will be singing the Divine Liturgy on
Sunday, June 2. We will have a brief Rehearsal immediately
following Liturgy on Sunday, June 16. This will rehearsal will
prepare us for the hymns of Pentecost sung on Sunday, June 23. No other
rehearsals will be scheduled for this month.
I will be attending the Church Music Conference June 27 - 30 at St.
Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles and serving as the Youth Choir Director.
Some of our Choir members are planning to attend the conference and it
would be wonderful to have a small group from our parish attend this year.
The hotel registration deadline is June 10 and the conference
registration information will be available soon. Please see me if you would like
to attend the conference. If you are interested in joining the Choir, the
conference would be an excellent introduction into the world of Liturgical
music and fellowship!
Athena Mertes, Director
“Now concerning the contribution to the saints . . . On the first
day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and
store it up, as he may prosper . . .” (1 Corinthians 16:1, 2)
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Hellenic Historical Society:
Nitsa Filios
GOYA:
Tammy Chomakos & Kouli Pouridis
HOPE and JOY:
Sharon Katsaros
Orthodox Family Fellowship:
Amy & Jeremy Bauck
Youth Ministries:
Eileen Koutsulis
Orthodox Connection Las Vegas:
Adam Bieker
Adult Basketball: Panagiote Tsolis
Forerunners:
Marie & Gary Setian
Greek Folk Dance:
Tammy Chomakos
Greek School: Paula Kelesis
Orthodox Bookstore:
Adam Bieker
Bill Andrews Library:
Spero Demoleas
Kokkos Scholarship Committee:
Helen Stock
The Desert Messenger
Youth Ministries
Church School
Christos Anesti! I cannot believe another year is coming to an end. We will be celebrating Church
School Commencement on Sunday, June 2. At that time we will honor our High School Graduates, our
Church School participants, and announce the Kokkos Scholarship Recipients. I will also announce as the
Pennies and Prayers amount that we collected for Mission Parishes during Lent. Thanks to our students who
donated every week; it is such a great cause and the money will be well spent.
I would like to congratulate all of our high school seniors for all of their hard work. We wish them
much success in the future! I would like to take this time to thank all of our teachers who all do a fantastic
job: All of us should be thankful for each and every one of them. Our classrooms were even more enriched
this year with Presvytera Maria coming into our classroom teaching all sorts of wonderful things, including
Church hymns, how to make Kollyva and even how and when we cense our homes. We are so blessed to have
her helping with our program.
I would like to thank the Ladies Philoptochos for hosting our end-of-the-year party after
Commencement – they so generously sponsor this for us every year. Our staff must also be acknowledged:
Sheryl and the custodial staff (Fernando, Roman and Andrea) for making sure that our rooms and facilities are
in tip-top shape; and Karen for taking care of all our administrative needs weekly – I could not do without
her. Last and certainly not least, thanks to Father John for his love, knowledge, support and everything he
does for our program. I feel blessed to have him as our wonderful parish priest.
We will be starting our New Church School Year on Sunday, September 8.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns.
Eileen Koutsulis, Church School Director (702)521-6516 or vivaleenie@cox.net
Youth Choir News
Christos Anesti! The Youth Choir did a fabulous job chanting the Holy Saturday Morning service. It
was a very enthusiastic group; we even had help from some of our Youth Choir “graduates.”
To coincide with Church School Commencement, the Youth Choir will chant the Divine Liturgy on
Sunday, June 2. Please be on time at 9:40 am in the usual spot.
The Youth Choir enjoyed a mini-golf outing in late May as an appreciation for all their excellent effort.
Please remember that new voices are encouraged to join us in the fall. Thank you!
Love, Presvytera Maria
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Greek Folk Dance
Registration for Greek Folk Dance continues through August 27. A table will be set up during
Fellowship on various Sundays or you can mail your registration to the Church Office. We would like to
encourage new and old dancers to join, as this is a wonderful way to meet and make new friends, stay
connected with our Church and to learn the dances of our ancestors.
The fee is $100 per dancer and $75 for each additional sibling. Late registration will be allowed
August 28 through October 1: During this period, the fee increases to $200 per dancer. There will be no
registrations allowed after October 1.
New this year, the registration for Division III (non competitive) is $50 per dancer. Registration is
open to all children who have been baptized and/or chrismated in the Orthodox Church, and who are at least
4 years old as of December 31, 2013. Proof of such must be turned in at the time of registration; if you do not
have a copy of your baptismal certificate, you should get on top of this ASAP.
Dancers must attend Divine Liturgy on Sundays on a regular basis and those who are of age (4-17
years) must be a regular participant of Church School. Also, the parent(s) must be a Steward of St. John
Church for 2013.
Tammy Chomakos and the Folk Dance Board
Orthodox Family Fellowship
We would like to thank those who joined us in May to donate their time and talents in helping to
make our Church grounds look nice. Orthodox Family Fellowship will not be meeting during the summer
months. If you have any ideas for future Days of Service within our community, please feel free to contact
Amy at abauck@cox.net or via phone at (702) 250-5064. We hope you all have a blessed summer break.
God Bless, Jeremy and Amy Bauck
HOPE and JOY
We kicked off summer with a picnic at Mountain's Edge Park and had a great
time! We will be going out with GOYA once again for a night under the stars in June!
Spring Mountain Ranch will be performing "The Music Man." Please join us on Saturday,
June 15 for this great night of fellowship! The show starts at 8:05 pm.
For more information and directions, go to http://supersummertheatre.org/. Please RSVP with me at
(702) 292-0850 so we know to look for you.
Your Sister in Christ, Sharon Katsaros, HOPE and JOY Advisor
GOYA
Christ is Risen, GOYAns! Congratulations to All Our Graduates! May God, His Holy Mother, the
Saints and Heavenly Hosts be with you as you take your first steps in life as adults.
Always remember what your parents have taught you and try your best to uphold the Commandments
of our Lord. Please do not forget your daily prayers and to attend Divine Liturgy regularly. We love you all . . .
Kali Pro-otho (Good Progress)!
This month, we will join together with HOPE & JOY for a night under the stars. Spring Mountain
Ranch is performing “The Music Man” on Saturday, June 15 at 8:05 pm. Please join us for this great night of
fellowship. For more information and directions, go to http://supersummertheatre.org/.
GOYA is a youth ministry for teens in Junior and High School: Please call or email our advisors to join
and participate.
Love in our Ascended Lord, Tammy Chomakos (702) 338-4671 or greeknirish@cox.net
and Kouli Pouridis (702) 604-0885 pouridis5@embarqmail.com
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Pan-Arcadians: Greek Language Classes
My Fellow Parishioners,
Congratulations to the Pan-Arcadian 2013 Greek Language Program
Graduates: Irene Caredis, Anastasia Cho, Eleni Cho, Eleni Cuilla, Maria
Demetriou, George Filios, Nikoletta Filios, Pete Flangas, Sofia Foskaris, Stefania
Foskaris, Stephen Gebhard, Alexandra Liaos, Alyssa Nicole Liaos, Juliana
Likourinou, Irene Sinopoulos, George Sinopoulos, Sophia Stilianessis, Zoe
Zachariou, Theodore Zachariou, Whitney Zamora, Alexandros Zarkos,
Nikoletta Zarkos and Yiannis Zarkos.
The Pan Arcadians are working on the Greek Language Program curriculum for next year. Preregistration for continuing students has begun and continues through August 23. Registration forms for
children and adults are available at the Church Office; space is limited so please register early. The Greek
Language Program is free of charge for all current Stewards of St. John the Baptist Church.
Please call me at (702) 417-4703 for any questions regarding the program. ~ Eleni Soursos
Forerunners - The Seniors of St. John the Baptist
Once again Forerunners had another flourishing year of monthly meetings and get-togethers. For our
final meeting until the fall, we will meet at the Rio World Buffet within the Rio Hotel/Casino on Monday,
June 10 at 11:30 am. Please try to get there on time so that we can be seated per our plan. The cost is $10 per
person; we hope all of you will make it there.
Just as a reminder: We will host Fellowship on Pentecost Sunday, June 23, following the Divine
Liturgy and Kneeling Vespers. Please do not forget to bring your goodies to the hall before Liturgy.
We have had a productive year, supporting various charities, donating to our Church and having
delicious luncheons, during which we have enjoyed positive discussions and wonderful entertainment. We
now have 69 paid members, the majority of whom join us for most meetings. We continue to help within our
parish as needed, and we look forward to helping once again before and during the Greek Food Festival.
Thanks to our Presidents, Gary and Marie, and all the “usual suspects” who continue to help at each
meeting and contribute to the success of Forerunners.
Have a safe summer, keep hydrated, wear sun block and enjoy this wonderful life we have been given.
Yours in Christ, Ruth Plentzas
Stewardship and Community Outreach
Christos Anesti! I hope everyone is having a wonderful Paschal Season! Also, congratulations
to all our graduating seniors!
As we celebrate these special occasions each year we also know that it is time to look forward
to summer. Please remember the Lord and His Holy Orthodox Church during the months when
vacation seems to be the top priority.
Our beloved Church does not close its doors, like schools, for the hot summer months. So we
must do our best to continue with our spiritual endeavors through this time of year: Attending
services, visiting the sick and homebound and providing financial support to our parish should still be
of utmost importance for each and every one of us Orthodox Christians. May we all be blessed in our
acts of good faith.
To the Glory of our Merciful Lord Jesus Christ . . .
Justina Szukiewicz, Stewardship and Community Outreach
12
The Desert Messenger
Orthodox Connection Las Vegas
Christos Anesti!
“I know your works; you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you are cold or hot! So, because
you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of my mouth.” (Revelation 3:15-16)
Having just completed a Lenten season, how do we see our efforts as we look back? Did we approach
Christ with all our hearts and give everything we could, so that we knew at the end we had no excuses? Or,
did we have struggles that pushed us past our breaking point and made us question ourselves and our own
resolve as Christians – yet through this questioning we found the answers in the unending love of Christ? Or
were we like the majority, who went through the motions of Lent as if it was an obligation, without truly
experiencing a change of mind and the love of Christ in the process?
Christ wants our zeal and our passion, He wants our heartbreak and struggles, but He does not want
our complacency. If we are ever under the impression that we have done enough, or that Christ owes us
something for our efforts, then it is time to sit down with our priest. Regardless of our efforts, we are never
worthy of Him; rather, it is only through Christ’s forgiveness, which is continuously offered by Him through
His Church that we are saved.
Just because this Lenten season has come to end does not mean that we have to wait for another
fasting period to try again. Being a Christian is a lifestyle that occurs each second of each day the Lord grants
us. Once we realize that we are sinners and need to repent, then we either gain the zeal or the humility – and
hopefully both – that puts us in His favor and keeps us from being “spewed out of His mouth.”
For the month of June, please join us in an evening of fellowship as we learn humility by finding out
what type of bowlers we are. OCLV will gather on Friday, June 14, 7:30 pm, at the Orleans Bowling Lanes.
Please RSVP by Tuesday, June 11 so lanes may be reserved.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 30, as OCLV will be hosting Fellowship. Please email me what
you will bring for everyone to enjoy.
In Christ, Adam Bieker orthodoxconnectionlv@gmail.com
WE ARE TRAVELING TO EPHESUS
. . . Through the Word of God!
Please Join Us for a Summer Adult Study with Father John!
St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians
Starting Wednesday, June 5 at 7:00 pm
Meeting Wednesday Evenings in Kokkos Hall
BYOB (Bring Your Own Bible)!
We will Follow the RSV Edition: Available in the Orthodox Bookstore
Orthodox Bookstore
I am eager to assist as the temporary Director of the Bookstore. I hope to meet more of you as you
come in after Liturgy; please share your opinions on how this vital ministry can meet your spiritual needs.
Come, check out our books and other spiritual aids to get help you through the summer. This is a
great time to dive into a new book on your trip, or even if enjoying time off at home. Spiritual reading is
always helpful for the summer months to keep our mind from getting too relaxed. Have a great summer!
As the Greek Food Festival approaches, please let me know if any of you are interested in volunteering
for the Orthodox Bookstore Booth.
Christos Anesti! Adam Bieker
13
The Desert Messenger
From Palms to the Empty Tomb!
Photos by Amy Bauck
& David Collins
14
The Desert Messenger
Holy Week 2013
15
The Desert Messenger
2013 Stewardship Report
2013 Stewardship Status as of May 20, 2013:
Pledges
Stewardship Target – 2013
Initial Pledges:
Additional Stewardship:
Increased Stewardship:
Stewardship Gifts Pledged:
$340,000
$307,087
$488
$0
$307,575
Gifts Received
Stewardship Gifts Pledged:
Stewardship Gifts Rcvd:
Stewardship Unpaid Balance:
Pledge Range
$1-$49
$50-$149
$150-$249
$250-$599
$600-$999
$1,000-$1,499
$1,500-$2,499
$2,500-$4,999
$5,000-$11,999
$12,000+
Stewardship Target Deficit:
Stewardship Target Overage:
Percentage of Goal Pledged:
Stewardship Families Pledged:
$32,425
$0
90%
361
$307,575
$156,871
$150,704*
Number of Families
8
55
40
116
44
45
27
18
7
1
$ of Gifts Pledged
$150
$5,250
$7,703
$46,892
$30,470
$49,250
$50,655
$58,825
$43,380
$15,000
*Stewardship pledges that are unfulfilled as of May 20, 2013
Financial Status for Month of April 2013
Bank Accounts
General Operating
Building/Maintenance
Community/Education Ctr
Construction (Loan Paymts)
Food Festival
Icon Money Market
Library Checking
Bookstore Checking
Loans
Construction Loan
(6% Interest)
Revolving Line of Credit
(5.75% Interest)
Term Loan
(5 years at 5.75% Interest)
Beginning Balance
as of 3.31.13
Income
$84,721.33
$54,297.30
$29,932.70
$650.00
$12,070.86
$16,138.73
$32,327.79
$490.46
$7,212.85
$620.35
$1,980.67
$1,155.37
$1,230.55
Expenses
$49,316.03
$16,747.38
$5,348.22
$5,597.94
$473.71
$7.00
$7.00
$92.70
Principal
$2,492.99
Internal Bank Transfers
Transfers In
Transfers Out
$27,000.00
$13,000.00
$14,000.00
$519,063.45
Payment
$5,174.82
Interest
$2,681.83
$50,000.00
(Principal balance transferred to term loan)
YTD Interest
$10,547.04
Balances
as of 3.31.13
$62,702.60
$13,835.32
$22,861.37
$26,729.85
$16.75
$20,826.20
$15,973.67
$2,293.22
$516,570.46
$1,354.56
$50,000.00
$50,000.00
Greek Food Festival Payables
Party Time Rentals
$1,939.22 ($1,443.14 disputing invoice for missing/damaged items)
“. . . And no one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit.”
(1 Corinthians 12:3)
16
The Desert Messenger
2013 Stewards and Contributors: “Chosen and Appointed by God to Go and Bear Fruit”
Adamy, Marina
Agnos, Dimitrios and Angeline
Ahlume, Almaz
Alcala, Phil and Georgia
Alvonellos, Tim and Katerina
Anastasakis, Mark and Elaine
Anastasiou, Andrew and Kathleen
Andraktos, Manuel
Andrews, Catherine
Anthony, Stavros and Bernadette
Anton, Manuel and Carol
Aristides, George and Diana
Asim, Demetrious
Asselanis, George and Samantha
Attard, Constantine and Sophia
Bacon, Ken and Dianne
Bagis, Eleni
Balodimas, James
Barbarino, Demetra
Bartzos, Sam and Eugenia
Bauck, Jeremy and Amy
Berendji, Jim and Vivian
Berta, Irene
Bicos, Andriana
Bieker, Adam and Cassie
Bigler, Louis
Birtas, Ann
Birtas, Helen
Bochanis, George
Borzekas, Stephen
Bosnos, Kostas and Mary
Brilis, George and Satoko
Britten, Ronald and Carol
Brown, Faye
Bruninga, William
Bucy, Brent and Elaine
Carabas, Stephen and Linda
Carahalis, John and Jillian
Caras, Louis
Caredis, Jon and Marjorie
Carrico, William and Alexandra
Carson, Michele
Carter, Maria
Cero, Dean
Chachas, Bessie
Chachas, James
Chandrinos, Alexia
Chandrinos. Peter
Chanos, George
Chomakos, Dean and Tammy
Chomakos, George and Nikki
Chondrakis, Dimos and
Kaaren Kragerd
Christian, Clair and Chloe
Christopoulos, Ann
Chumas, Russell and Stella
Cole, Darrick and Carla
Collins, David
Collins, Dean
Cominos, Ted
Conger, William and Alexia
Constantine, Bill
Corum, Evgenia
Costacos, John
Costas, Charles and Louise
Costin, Sergiu and Garanin, Lucia
Costuros, George and Marsha
Cosulas, Rev. Basil and Samantha
Cotsilis, Jenny
Couluris, Chris and Catherine
Coutris, Angela
Dalacas, Dimitri and Athanasia
Dalacas, Eleni
Dalacas, Eugenia
Dalacas, Nick and Georgia
Dawood, Evon
Delalis, Dina
Delia, Joel and Scarlet
DeMangus, Joanne
Demolas, Illias and Jody
Demolas, Maria
Demoleas, Helen
Demoleas, Spero and Grace
Demoleas, Stephanie
Demopoulos, Tommy and Vasiliki
Deverikos, Peter and Angela
DeWindt, Dennis and Susan
Dominguez, Eric and Amalia
Doskas, Athanasios and Anastasia
Dougan, Linda
Doukakis, Panagiotis and Chrisi
Dounis, Dina
Dounis, Georgia
Dounis, Kiki
Economon, Andrew and Stacy
Eliades, Harry and Agapi
Eliades, Katerina
Eliakis, Peter and Glenda
Eliakis, Varthie and Lee Ann
Eliopulos, Goldie
Exarhos, Nick and Sharon
Eyler, Fr. Paul and Presv. Ilean
Eyler, John and Elizabeth
Failla, Jon and Jennifer
Farren, Anthony and Maritsa
Filios, George and Nitsa
Filios, Spiridon and Eleni
Flangas, Bill and Marilyn
Fotopoulos, John and Barbara
Frangakis, Christos and Anastasia
Frangakis, Costa
Frangakis, John
Franzi, Jack
George, Pete and Georgia
Georgiou, Byron and Therese
Georgiou, Eleftherios and Jennifer
Georgis, John and Kaliopi
Gialketsis, Barbara
Gialketsis, Bill and Shelli
Gialketsis, Julie
Gialketsis, Steve
Gialketsis, William and Terry
Gianakoulias, Nick and Magda
Goddard, Elizabeth
Gordon, Victor and Demetria
Gott, Thomas
Gousdovas, Nikos
Grabovoi, Daniel
Grabovoi, Daphne
Grabovoi, Eftie +
Grigore, Vally and Ana
Grillas, Roula
Grissom, Tony and Georgeea
Gruber, Ernest and Zoe
Hamilton, Mary
Hamilton, Paul and Brandi
Harmon, Nicholas and Barbara
Harrison, Angie
Haynes, Leonard and Maria
Hetzel, David and Joanne
Hoadrea, Jimmy and Monci
Hondros, Catherine
Hondros, Christina
Hondros, Fr. John and Presv. Maria
Hoover, Patrick and Pauline
Howard, William and Willie
Hristopoulou, Spiridoula
Iteen, Robert and Sophia
Janlerri, Sotiraq
Kachikis, Paul and Ernestine
Kakavulias, Christina
Kakavulias, George and Helen
Kakavulias, John
Kakavulias, Maria
Kanellis, Ann
Kanoles, Konstantine
Kanoles, Helene
Kaptain, Catherine
Karalias, Petros and Constance
Karas, James
Karas, John and Marcie
Karas, Vasiliki
Karris, Mark and Suzanne
Karvounidis, Nick and Alexandra
Katris, Nick and Kathryn
Katsaros, Thomas and Sharon
Kelesis, Dina
Kelesis, George
Kelesis, Paula
Kentros, William
Khoury, Ray and Nicole
Kilgore, Richard and Eleni
Kleanthis, George and Zanetta
Kokenes, Katherine
Koliambas, Eleni
Kolokithas, Thomas and Vangie
Konsolakis, George and Sophia
Kostopoulos, Georgia
Kotonias, George and Patricia
Kountanis, Panagiota
Kourlos, Georgia
Koutsulis, John and Eileen
Koutsulis, Sam and Effie
Kratky, Frank and Constance
Kypreos, George
Kypreos, Peter and Geri
Kyprianou, Gilbert and Alexis
Ladies Philoptochos Society
Lakis, Antoinette
Lapi, Llazaraq and Natasha
Latelle, Penny
Lazarakis, John and Panagiota
Lekar, Michael and Effie
Leonis, Nick and Sophia
Leonis, Tishe
Leventis, Nicholas and Christina
Leventis, Petros and Maja
Lewis, Foula
17
Liaos, James and Tina
Liaos, Steven and Francine
Liaos, William and Irene
Likourinou, Angie
Likourinou, Steve and June
Loughton, Dustin and Rena
Luckey, Jason and Shawna
Lymberopoulos, Mary
Maddox, Thomas and Maria
Malamatos, Kindina
Malpee, Mack and Kalliope
Mamasis, Dena
Mamasis, Tessie
Maniatakos, Ted and Maria
Manolakos, Catherine
Manos, Patricia
Mansour, Muna
Manteris, Arthur and Sue
Margaretis, John and Lucila
Matsis, Alexandra
Matsis, John and Rebecca
Matsis, Mike and Kristin
Mavrantonis, Kiki and Stacy
Mavroidis, Demetrios and Debra
Mavros, Alex and Clark, Jen
Mavros, Michael and Debbie
Mavroudis, Frank and Vess, Olga
McKinney, Michael and Mersene
McNear, Elizabeth
Menegatos, James and Dana
Mengisie, Melaku
Mertes, Patrick and Athena
Millet, Jennie +
Minas, Arthur and Ewa
Miner, George and Loreane
Mirich, Kyle
Monoyudis, Jim and Julie
Mulopulos, George
Murnane, Sharon
Murphy, Terry and Karen
Myers, Stella
Nadzan, Don and Athena
Nedelcu, Laura and Ciprian
Neocleous, Plato
Newell, Eric and Devona
Newell, Ronald and Maria
Nicholas, John and Estella
Nichols, Georgia Christ
Nichols, Mary
Nikitas, Rigas and Aphrodite
Nikolopoulos, Nick and Dimitra
O'Brien, Christoula
Olmsted, Travis and Marilyn
Orlando, Alleck and Jennifer
Osborn, Pearl
Ostis, Sotirios
Pacheco, Nia & Adrian
Pallis, Paul
Pan Arcadians
Pandelis, Cheryl
Panos, William and Jeanne
Pantos, James
Papas, Christian and Nicole
Papas, Peter and Rita
Pappas, Antonia
Pappas, Constantine and Karina
The Desert Messenger
2013 Stewards and
Contributors
Pappas, Libby
Pappas, Rita
Paton, Mia
Paul, Janet
Payan, Luis and Eleni
Pelletier, Michael
Pendleton, Tricia
Petro, Aleko and Georgia
Petrou, Jim and Penelopi
Philippou, Demetrios and Luanne
Pierro, Joe and Rhonda
Pierro, Joseph Jr. and Christine
Platis, Anna
Plentzas, Spiros and Ruth
Polimerou, Angeline
Politis, Mayra & Victor
Poulos, Christine
Pouridis, Kouli and Para
Powers, Russell and Rebecca
Prifti, Mirela
Prokopis, Chris and Ritsa
Punsalan, Basil and Sophie
Pytikakis, Manos and Mary
Qeleshi, Elton and Ornela
Radosta, Athena
Raptis, Fr. Dean and Presv. Evonne
Rifakes, John and Carol
Rodis, Dimitri
Rodis, Sophia
Rouvas, John and Keri
Rubje, Eva
Rudolph, Brandon and
Kordogiannis, Christina
Ruffner, Skip and Kathy
Salon, Nicholas and Janelle
Salvarlis, Thomas and Joyce
Savvas, Savva
Setian, Gary and Marie
Shields, William and Oda, Etenesh
Shinas, George and Sharon
Skalkotos, Nikolas and Georgia
Skandros, Georgia
Skarlatos, Irene
Smith, Kathleen
Snow, Clifford and Christina
Snowden, Robert and Niki
Soper, Robert and Maria
Sorkin, Olga
Sparangis, Spyro and Helen
Sparkuhl, Alexander and Antoinette
Stasinis, Argery
Staubs, Douglas and Anastasia
Stavropoulos, Terry and Niki
Stefanatos, Michael and Tami
Stenos, Louis
Stilianessis, Howard and Antonia
Stock, Helen
Struzas, Maria
Sukhov, Boris and Katerina
Szukiewicz, Alex
Szukiewicz ,Joe
Szukiewicz, Joseph and Jennia
Tafoya, Steven and Irene
Takas, Andrea
Tasios, Pete and Ramona
Taxiarchos, Andrew and
Alexandra
Taxopoulos, Bryan
Teed, Charles
Thomas, Angie
Thompson, Maggy
Tohme, Tony and May
Touroutoglou, Nikolaos
Tringas, Chris and Brigette
Tselikis, Nicholas and Jennifer
Tsiralidis, Kosmas and Katerina
Tsolis, Christos and Panagioula
Tsolis, Panagiote
Tzelalis, Steve
Tzortzis, Vasilios and Maria
Varinos, Nick and Kiki
Vergos, Charles and Eve
Vlassopoulos, Maria
Wagner, Christopher and Sophye
Walter, Vernon and Alice
Walters, Lane and Mary
Waterhouse, David
Waters, Gary and Susan
White, William
Willey, Anthony
18
Williams, Anthony and Anna
Wilson, Steven and Cleo
Womack, Karl
Womack, Kimberly
Wronski, Chuck
Xerogianes, Nick and Nikki
Xikis, Victoria
Yurkov, Nikolina
Zachariou, Aspasia and Sozos
Zaferatos, Ted and Marinella
Zimmerman, Paul and Angela
Zoumboulis, Tina
19
Apostles/All Saints
8:45 am Orthros
10:00 am Divine Liturgy
30 Synaxis of Holy
Holy Pentecost
24 Monday of the
8:45 am Orthros
Holy Spirit/Nativity of
10:00 am Divine Liturgy St. John the Baptist
& Kneeling Vespers
8:00 am Orthros
9:00 am Div. Liturgy
7:30 pm Basketball
27
20
of Our Lord
(Liturgy celebrated
6/12)
13 Holy Ascension
6
28
Peter and Paul
8:00 am Orthros
9:00 am Divine Ltiurgy
29 Holy Apostles
8:00 am Orthros
9:00 am Divine Liturgy
(Memorial follows
Liturgy)
22 Saturday of Souls
8:05 pm GOYA/HOPE
& JOY: “The Music Man”
at Spring Mountain
Ranch
21
15
8
1
Saturday
7:30 pm OCLV at
Orleans Bowling
Lanes
Friday
14
7
Pentecost Week: No Fasting All Week
7:00 pm Adult Study
26
25
19
23
18
6:00 pm Parish Council 7:00 pm Adult Study
6:30 pm Philoptochos
Board at RePete’s
17
8:45 am Orthros
7:30 pm Adult
10:00 am Divine Liturgy Basketball
Happy Father’s Day!
16
5:00 pm Orthros
6:00 pm Divine Liturgy
(Holy Ascension)
7:30 pm Adult Study
12
11:30 am Forerunners
Luncheon at Rio Buffet
7:30 pm Adult
Basketball
11
10
8:45 am Orthros
10:00 am Divine Liturgy
Parish Assembly
follows Liturgy
5
Wednesday Thursday
9
4
Tuesday
7:00 pm Adult Study:
Letter to the Ephesians
3
Monday
8:45 am Orthros
7:30 pm Adult
10:00 am Divine Liturgy Basketball
Youth Choir Chants
Church School
Commencement
2
Sunday
JUNE 2013 - IN THE YEAR OF THE LORD
The Desert Messenger
The Desert Messenger
NONPROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
LAS VEGAS NV
PERMIT NO. 98
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
5300 South El Camino Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89118-1922
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The Desert Messenger
The Way of the Lord
“O my brothers, though we do not see our Lord,
we see His works, which have sanctified the whole of human
history from beginning to end and have illuminated the
significance of the spiritual in all creation under the heavens.
If we do not see the Lord, we see His Holy Church,
built on His innocent blood, and from innumerable saints and
righteous ones and unnumbered souls baptized in His Name
through ages and ages. If we have not beheld our Lord
face to face as the Apostles looked on Him,
we believe that He is with us in the Body and Blood
which we by His commandment receive in Communion
and will receive and rejoice with joy unspeakable.”
~ Bishop Nikolai Velimirovic