ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ

ΚΑΙ ΚΑΛΗ ΧΡΟΝΙΑ

THE RACE OF LIFE

St. Paul speaking about his effort says: “I have fought the good fight”

No year passes without something good happening. And likewise, no year passes

without some trial and tribulation. The good fight is one that is fought with consistency.

We do not need to be a super-Christian, just a steady one. And we do not want to go

through periods of spiritual ecstasy followed by spiritual mediocrity. Better to keep a

steady pace, for the race is a marathon, not a sprint.

Part of the race is to be an evangelist, to witness for Christ in some way. The easi-

est way is to love your neighbor. Even if the name of Christ is not mentioned, most of the

times this year, there will be conversations, where you will think about Christ, where you

will think, ‘should I offer to pray here?” and then you will make a choice. We will all ex-

perience this. We will all have occasions to bring Christ or prayer into a conversation and it

will come up naturally.

Marathon runners do not think of the entire race at one time. They think about the

race in increments, in miles, in markers. They focus on running one mile at a time, they fo-

cus on the pace of a single mile, not the pace of the entire race. The race is won by running

each individual mile well. Put the miles together and you have a well-run race. This year,

we will run a segment of our life race. Some of us are running the first mile or two (if you

are young or a new Christian); others are somewhere in the middle and some are close to

the end. Focus on running YOUR mile well. Focus on the mile ahead of you. for those who

have not run well to this point, it doesn’t do much good to look back and lament. Look for-

ward and focus on running the next mile well. The good news with God is that He doesn’t

expect anyone to WIN the race, only to FINISH the race. St. Paul didn’t write, “I have won

the race,” or “I have put my opponents to shame.” He wrote, “I have finished the race.”

And how does God want us to cross the finish line? He wants us to have kept the

faith. There are many times when I minister to people who are at the end of life. They may

be very sick very tired. They may have had wonderful successes which have been forgotten

because they lived twenty years past their retirement. And I will encourage them to “keep

the faith”.

We need to finish the race, and we need to keep the faith while finishing the race.

God promises a reward, a crown of righteousness, to those who finish.

As we begin a new year, focus on running a steady race each day. Don’t let hard-

ships ruin your steady pace. And don’t let disappointments threaten your faith. Fight a

good fight, run today’s segment of the race (string days and years together and then finish,

but focus on running today’s segment today) and keep (and grow) in faith.

Borrowed from “LET ALL CREATION REJOICE: REFLECTIONS FOR ADVENT, THE NATIVITY AND EPIPHANY

BY FR. STAVROS N. AKROTIRIANAKIS (available in our bookstore)

INCLUDED IN THIS MAILING: Community Christmas Card, Complementary Calendar (Please pull the folded flap down, to

display our sponsor’s information and important Church numbers as well.), Pocket Calendar and January 2018 Bulletin.

Sun Dec 31 Regular Schedule No Sunday School

Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Konstandinos Bobotsiares by his brother Stavro Bobotsiares & family.

NEW YEAR’S EVE SERVICE St. Basil’s Liturgy Matins 8:30pm Divine Liturgy 9:30pm

NEW YEAR’S DANCE IN SUPPORT OF YOUTH MINISTRIES (see details in bulletin)

Mon Jan 1 The GOYA youth will visit as many parishioners homes as possible, to wish them a blessed, healthy and happy New Year while singing the traditional New Year’s carols (Kalanda). If this is inconvenient, please call the office requesting to be taken off the list.

Happy New Year!

Office is closed.

Tue Jan 2 Men’s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am

Adult Discussion 9:30am

Wed Jan 3 First day of school after the holidays for Annunciation Christian Academy

Philoptochos Board Meeting 6:00pm

Fri Jan 5 Eve of Theophany Blessing of Water - Strict Fast Day Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

Sat Jan 6 Theophany - Greater Blessing of Water - Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

Sun Jan 7 St. John the Baptist Regular Schedule

At the conclusion of services, the Parish Council will receive the Oath of Office. A special presentation will be made to the members of the Parish Council ending their term.

Vasilopita Luncheon - The traditional Vasilopita and Luncheon will take place after services. All proceeds benefit St. Basil’s Orphanage. The ladies of Philoptochos cordially invite the community to attend.

Mon Jan 8 No “Warm-up America”

Parish Council Meeting 6:00pm

Tue Jan 9 Men’s Discussion Group Meeting at 6:30am

Adult Discussion 9:30am

Wed Jan 10 First day of Greek School after holidays

Young Women’s Discussion Group “Walking on a Peaceful Path” 11:00am

Community Fellowship Night 6:00-6:30pm Paraklesis 6:30-7:00pm Fellowship Meal 7:00 - 8:15 PM Philoptochos Meeting and GOYA Bible Study

Κυρ 14 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο

Ετήσιο Μνημόσυνο της Πρεσβυτέρας Μαρίκας (Μαριάνθης) Καναβού

Ο Καφές προσφέρετε στην αγαπημένη μνήμη της από την οικογένεια της

Δευτ 15 Ιαν Η Χριστιανική Ακαδημία θα είναι κλειστή

«Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική» στον διάδρομο της εκκλησίας 9:00πμ

Τριτ 16 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ

Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ

Πεμπ 17 Ιαν Του Αγίου Αθανασίου Όρθρος – Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Κυρ 21 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Χορωδία Νήπια – 3ή τάξεων

Τριετές Μνημόσυνο της Μαρίας Τσατσαρώνη

Εξαετές Μνημόσυνο του Χαράλαμπου Τσατσαρώνη

Ο καφές προσφέρετε στις αγαπημένες μνήμες της Μαρίας και του Χαράλαμπου

από την οικογένεια τους

Δευτ 22 Ιαν Των Αγίων Τιμόθεου και Αναστασίου. Όρθρος – Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Τριτ 23 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ

Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ

Τετ 24 Ιαν Συνάντηση της GOYA 7:00-8:15μμ

Πεμπ 25 Ιαν Του Αγίου Γρηγορίου του Θεολόγου Όρθρος – Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Κυρ 28 Ιαν Κανονικό ωράριο Αγγελική Χορωδία τάξεων Νήπια – 3ης

Το Ελληνικό Σχολείο θα παρουσιάσει ένα πρόγραμμα προς τιμή των Τριών

Ιεραρχών.

Ο Καφές προσφέρετε προς τιμή των Τριών Ιεραρχών απο τους γονείς του

Ελληνικού Σχολείου (GPTO)

Συνεδρίαση του GPTO (γονέων τον μαθητών του Ελληνικού Σχολείου) μετα τον

καφέ.

Τριτ 30 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ

Των Τριών Ιεραρχών Όρθρος – Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Τετ 31 Ιαν GOYA μελέτη της Βίβλου 7:00-8;15μμ

Κυρ 31 Δεκ Κανονικό ωράριο – Δεν θα έχουμε κατηχητικό σχολείο

Ο καφές προσφέρετε από την οικογένεια του Σταύρου Μπομποτσιάρη για την

αγαπημένη μνήμη του αδερφού του Κωνσταντίνου Μπομποτσιάρη.

Του Αγίου Βασιλείου όρθρος 8:30μμ Θ. Λειτουργία 9:30μμ

Πρωτοχρονιάτικη χοροεσπερίδα 10:00μμ-2018

Δευτ 1 Ιαν Η GOYA θα επισκεφτεί όσα σπίτια μπορεί να εκφράσουν τις ευχές για το νέο έτος

και να ψάλλουν τα κάλαντα. Εάν κάποιος δεν θα είναι στο σπίτι παρακαλούμε να

επικοινωνήσετε με το γραφείο της εκκλησία να ενημερώσετε.

Καλή Χρονιά!

Το γραφείο θα είναι κλειστό

Τριτ 2 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών 6:30πμ

Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ

Τετ 3 Ιαν Πρώτη μέρα της Χριστιανικής Ακαδημίας μετά τις διακοπές

Συνεδρίαση του Διοικητικού συμβουλίου της Φιλόπτωχου 6:00μμ

Παρ 5 Ιαν Παραμονή των Θεοφανίων – Νηστεία - Όρθρος – Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Σαβ 6 Ιαν Των Θεοφανίων – Όρθρος- Θ. Λειτουργία 8:45πμ

Κυρ 7 Ιαν Αγίου Ιωάννου του Βαπτιστή Κανονικό ωράριο

Ορκωμοσία του νέου διοικητικού συμβουλίου μετά την Θ. Λειτουργία.

Eιδική προσφορά θα δοθεί στα μέλη που τελειώνουν την υπηρεσία τους

στο διοικητικό συμβούλιο.

Μεσημεριανό Βασιλόπιτας- Μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία θα έχουμε το

παραδοσιακό μεσημεριανό με την κοπή της Βασιλόπιτας. Όλα τα έσοδα θα δοθούν

στο Ορφανοτροφείο του Αγίου Βασιλείου. Η Φιλόπτωχος προσκαλεί όλα τα μέλη

της κοινότητας

Δευτ 8 Ιαν Δεν θα έχουμε «Ας ζεστάνουμε την Αμερική»

Συνεδρίαση του Δ. Συμβουλίου του 6:00μμ

Τριτ 9 Ιαν Θρησκευτική συζήτηση της ομάδας των ανδρών στις 6:30πμ

Θρησκευτική συζήτηση 9:30πμ

Τετ 10 Ιαν Πρώτη μέρα του Ελληνικού σχολείου μετά της διακοπές

Συζήτηση Νέων Γυναικών στις 11:00πμ

Κοινοτική βραδιά

6:00-6:30 μμ Παράκληση

6:30-7:00μμ Δείπνο

7:00-8:15μμ Συνεδρίαση της Φιλόπτωχου

Friday, January 12 - Monday, January 14 Hellenic Dance Festival

Sun Jan 14 Regular Schedule

1yr Memorial - Presv. Marika (Marianthe) Canavos

Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Presv. Marika by her loving family.

Mon Jan 15 Annunciation Christian Academy closed

“Warm-up America” in the Breezeway 9:00-Noon. A knitting group for ALL ages.

Tue Jan 16 Men’s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am

Adult Discussion 9:30am

Thu Jan 18 St. Athanasios Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

Sun Jan 21 Regular Schedule K-3rd grade Angel Choir

3yr Memorial - Maria Tsatsaronis 6yr Memorial - Haralambos Tsatsaronis

Fellowship Hour is offered in loving memory of Haralambos & Maria by their loving families. Mon Jan 22 Sts. Timothy & Anastasios Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am Tue Jan 23 Men’s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am

Adult Discussion 9:30am

Wed Jan 24 GOYA Meeting & Discussion 7:00-8:15pm Thu Jan 25 St Gregory the Theologian Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

Sun Jan 28 Regular Schedule K-3rd grade Angel Choir

The Greek School students will offer a brief presentation in honor of the Three Hierarchs and their contribution to education.

Fellowship Hour is offered by the Greek School parents (GPTO) in honor of “The Three Hierarchs”.

GPTO Meeting in the Greek School room after services. All parents of Greek School students are encouraged to attend. Tue Jan 30 Men’s Discussion Group Meeting 6:30am

The Three Hierarchs Matins & Divine Liturgy 8:45am

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7

USHERS – Jimmy Chrysson, Pete Bobotsiares, George Bambalis, Paula Christakos CHURCH SERV COMM Team 1 - Tom Giannopoulos, Tony Franzese, Presv. Stacy Shepherd, Paul Anthony MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 6 – Athanasia Ballas, Anastasia Katsiadas READER - Ron Sheppard ALTAR BOYS Team 3 - Costa Kortesis, Alexander Marshall, Yanni Petropoulos, Mikie Ioannou, Nicholas Woody, Stavros Karagiorgis, Panagiotis Vgenopoulos, Parker Moye, Angelo Petropoulos, Evangelos Kortesis, Christos Katsoudas, John Spinosa NURSERY – Christina Soriano, Irene Chamis, Nia Kazakos

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 2 - Chris Gallos, Teddy J. Tsiolkas, Angelic Carroll, Tony Vlasis MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 1 – Gabriella Ballas, Athena Grisette READER - George Kalamaras ALTAR BOYS Team 4 - Vasileios Karagiannis, Stevie Raptis, Max Rogatsios, Dimitrios Mitropoulos, William Nolan, Niko Vlahos, Nektarios Vgenopoulos, Pavlos Anson, Vasili Johnson, Andreas Kazakos NURSERY – Chrissy McCullough, Frances Kazakos, Kathy Koutsoupias

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21

USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 3 – George Kalamaras, Virginia Moutos, Chris Spinosa, Vic Pappas MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 2 - Maria Anthony, Zoe Spanos READER - Anthony Whitley ALTAR BOYS Team 5 - Ralph Shepherd, George Raptis, Marcus Neacsu, Michael Ioannou, Matthew Moutos, John Kroustalis, Sebastian Neacsu, Harper Satterfield, Harrison Satterfield, Evangelos Paparoupas NURSERY – Helen Vlasis, Jenny Morris

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 USHERS - To be determined CHURCH SERV COMM Team 4 - Brian McFarlin, Chad Davis, Renee Kortesis, Kim Karahalios MAIDENS FOR CHRIST Team 3 - Ritsa Liaskonis, Maria Shepherd READER - Will Moye ALTAR BOYS Team 1 - Vaios Demopoulos, Alexandros Kalogeromitros, Yiannis Alexiou, Luke Vlahos, Vasili-os Ziogas, Christos Demopoulos, Demetrios Liaskonis, John Stabolitis, John Petropoulos, William Pierce, Alex Zades NURSERY – Corie Ebert, Paula Manser, Katie Kroustalis

MERRY CHRISTMAS

HAPPY NEW YEAR

STEWARDSHIP OF TALENT It is our distinct pleasure to present to the community for a second year, the An-nual Community Christmas Card written (drawn) by Marianna Liontis in honor of Christ’s Nativity. Marianna’s offering is from an icon named “Mother and Christ-child”. Anyone else in the community wishing to share such a gift/talent please call Fr. Demetri.

What is CrossRoad? The CrossRoad Summer Institute is a ten-day program for

Orthodox Christian high school juniors and seniors held (Session 1&2) on the campus of Hel-

lenic College Holy Cross in Brookline, MA. Session 3 held in Chicago July 21-31.

Explore your vocation. Build lifelong friendships. Quench your thirst for

knowledge. Step outside your comfort zone to encounter Christ in the face of your

neighbor. Dive into Orthodox theology and Scripture with some

of the best professors in the country.

Who is eligible? Orthodox Christian high school juniors and seniors Students between the ages of 16 and 18 years old

Tuition: $850

APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 28, 2018

Apply online today at www.crossroadinstitute.org

For those who are accepted-you may apply for the Sophia V. Bambalis Alumni Scholarship

Session 1: June 16-26, 2018

Session 2: July 2-12, 2018

Session 3: July 21-31, 2018

In loving memory of Gregory, Robert and families by Harry & Theresa Makitka.

In loving memory of our parents Anesti & Fotini Hamberis and Spero & Vasiliki Kroustalis by Nick & Katina Kroustalis.

In loving memory of our parents Mary & George Fragakis and James & Dorothy Toompas by John & Sophia.

In honor of Natalie, Chris, Anna, Bryan, John, Ellie, Julia, Rhodes and McLain by Mom & Dad / Yiayia & Pappou Fragakis.

In loving memory of Nick Anggelis and in honor of Mel Anggelis by Kenny & Vicky Russell.

In loving memory of my beloved husband & our father & grandfather, John P. Gallins and parents & grandparents Maria & Paul Gallins by Marika, Paul, Constantina, Deno, Thomas and John.

In honor & good health of my family by Marika.

In loving memory of Tom Moutos by Mike, Caroline and George Vlasis.

In loving memory of Barbara Linton; Brandi Linton by David Linton.

In loving memory of Chris & Irene Moutos and uncle Tom Moutos by George, Stamey, Chris and Spero Moutos.

In loving memory of Mike Parris by Chris & Wendy Lohr.

In loving memory of all my family and friends by Irene Hartung.

In honor of our children Christos and Amalia and all of our family members by Apostolos & Maria Tsigas.

In loving memory of my beloved husband and son and all of my loved ones by Voula Vlasis.

In loving memory of Jim & Helen Tsiolkas by their children and grandchildren.

In honor of my entire family by Teddy J. Tsiolkas.

In loving memory of Gregory Makitka by Terri Ann, Kaitlyn, Gary Bryan.

In loving memory of George K. Kalamaras by George & Angela Kalamaras.

In honor of Dennis Hondros by George & Angela Kalamaras.

In honor of parents Harry & Theresa Makitka by Terri Ann, Kaitlyn, Gary Bryan.

For the good health of our children, George, Michael, Luke and our Godchildren Will and Athena by Ike & Kristi Vlahos.

In loving memory of Irene Elefantis by her husband Aristides Elefantis and daughter Fotini Kara-giorgis.

In loving memory of Yiayia Barbara P. Meletis and Christos N. Ebert by The Meletis and Ebert Family.

In loving memory of Toni Plumber by Victoria Blevins.

In honor of my Goddaughter Julia Spinosa by Victoria Blevins.

In honor of our families by Georgia & Greg Wood.

We would like to thank you for beautifying our church during the Christmas Season with your loving donations in honor, in health and in memory of your beloved. If anyone’s name

was left off this list, we are truly sorry.

STEWARDSHIP 2017

With 2017 coming to an end we would like to thank all of our Stewards for your support of Annunci-ation Ministries. The Stewardship list is updated on the 15th of every month.

Stewardship 2018

Neither ice nor snow could disrupt our community Stewardship Sunday, another delicious event. The food was wonderful and Angel Choir and Greek School youth gave us all a wonderful holiday lift. A special spirit was present once again, as we gathered as a Church Community to break bread. Chris Karahalios, our Chef did a wonderful job assisted by his many helpers.

Our thanks to all who helped, and to all who supported the Annunciation Ministries through Stewardship in 2017. We anticipate that by the end of December we will have met our goal for 2017. BRAVO!

To date 123 Stewardship Cards have been received for 2018. We would like to thank all who responded in such a timely fashion. We would like to remind all those who have yet to respond, to do so at your earliest convenience. Remember our Stewardship basket is LARGE. It needs all of our help.

May God bless you in the coming year.

Dino Cortesis Bill Karahalios George Stabolitis

Stewardship Committee

Balourdos, Chris & Eleni Boyd, Katie Chrysson, Christopher & Jennifer Chrysson, Gabriel & Sarah Cortessis, Angelo & Evridiki Hodges, Dr. Steve & Jennifer Kontos, Johnny & Kelly Kortesis, John & Renee Kortesis, Niki Kroustalis, Jim & Irene Pantazis, Bessie Raptis, Dean & Angie

Sabio, Antonio & Anna Simos, Terry & Marie Siokis, Konstantinos & Elizabeth Strates, Maria C. Strates, Konstandina "Tina" Strates, Thomas C. Tsolis, Constantine & Angela Vlachos, Ilias & Heather

Should you need a statement for IRS tax purposes, please call the Church office (765-7145)

Our goal for 2017 was 410 Stewardship families.

To date 406 Families have responded.

Thank you

Blessing of Homes - During the Epiphany Season, Frs. Demetri, Costa and Dino (Carros) will be blessing homes by request. Please call the office (765-7145) before January 5 to have your home blessed. Thank you.

The Good Samaritan helpers visited/sent cards to the following members of the Church this month: Virginia, Despina, Voula, and Marina.

If you desire members of the Good Samaritan Helpers to visit you, or know of others that desire it, or those who need cards, please let one of our members know. We would also like to help

those who need rides to doctors' offices or need help in other ways. Members to call are: Mary Wnentowski 749-5391; Persephone Cortessis 765-2473; Martha Dentiste 768-1077; Emily Kafant 766-0604; Nicky Hondros 723-1320.

Join us as we ring in the New Year!

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

Featuring Tasios Christou & Band

from Washington, DC

December 31st 10:00 pm

THE HELLENIC CENTER

PRESALE $30 Adults / $15 Students

12 & Under FREE

(Tickets at the door will be an additional $5)

Join us for a night of greek & American music,

delicious food, and a lot of fun!

Champagne toast at midnight

Featuring a breakfast buffet

Tickets will be sold after church every Sunday

for more info call Church office 336-765-7145,

Jimmy 336-399-2153 Or Mary 336-749-1886

All proceeds benefit youth ministries!

For the good health of our family by John & Louisa Pantazis.

In loving memory of our parents, brothers and sister by Terry & Roxanne Gianopoulos.

For the good health of our children, grandchildren, Godchildren, brothers and sisters by Terry & Roxanne Gianopoulos.

In loving memory of Bill & Mabel Sfikas and Jim Uhl by Sfikas Family.

In loving memory of my beloved husband, Gus by Emily S. Kafant.

In loving memory of my husband, son, daughter-in-law, parents and in-laws by Alice Piedad.

In honor of our children and grandchildren by Uly & Teddie Grisette.

In honor of our family - Ken, Helene, Cameron, Connor, Dean, Mallory, Maria by Ted & Litsa Tsiol-kas.

In loving memory of Aristidis Gatsis by Maria and Penny Gatsis.

In loving memory of my parents by Maria Gatsis.

In loving memory of Pete C. Nichols by Chris Nichols.

In honor of Violet Nichols by Chris Nichols.

In loving memory of my Nouna Jane Emanuel by Theodora Bill Katsimbas.

In honor of my Nouno Angelo Emanuel by Theodora Bill Katsimbas.

In loving memory of our parents and brothers by Bill & Dina Katsimbas.

In loving memory of my husband Xenophon Gallins by Bessie Gallins.

In loving memory of our beloved Father & Grandfather Frank Nicholson Jr. by the Ilias Vlachos Family.

In loving memory of Vaso Kazakos by Theodore Tasios Kazakos Family.

In loving memory of Fotios & Dimitra Kalabokis and Dionisios Paloumbas by Jim & Maria Paloum-bas.

In loving memory of Tom, our beloved husband and father by Virginia, Frank and Stuart Moutos.

In loving memory of Pete Nichols by Vi Nichols.

In honor of my loving family by Vi Nichols.

In loving memory of our parents Mr. & Mrs. William Beskas by George & Dee Beskas.

In loving memory of our parents Mr. & Mrs. Chris Konomos by Dee & George Beskas.

In loving memory of Sophia Bambalis by George, Chris, Peter and Nitsa Bambalis.

In honor of our Annunciation Community by George & Chris Bambalis.

In loving memory of Gus Stogias by his wife Maria and daughter Bessie.

In loving memory of Panayioti & Anastasia Karaiskos by Maria Stogias and family.

In loving memory of Vasilios & Vasiliki Stogias by Maria Stogias and family.

In loving memory of our mother Mary T. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins.

In loving memory of our father Paul J. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins.

In loving memory of our big brother John P. Gallins by Teddy & Helen Gallins.

In honor and good health of our family by Konstantinos & Evangelia Kazakos.

In loving memory of Pappou Stavro Karagiorgis and Para-yiayia Anastasia Kokinos by Stavro and Victoria Karagiorgis.

In loving memory of Fr. Theodore & Presv. Elisavet Kazakos, Seraphim & Georgia Ballas and Aga-memnon by Gregory & Maria Ballas.

In loving memory of Konstandinos (Gus) Kafant by Fr. Costa, Presv. Stacy Shepherd and family.

In loving memory of Ralph & Rebecca Shepherd by Fr. Costa & Presv. Stacy Shepherd and family.

In honor of our children, grandchildren, Godchildren, nieces and nephews by Fr. Costa & Presv. Stacy Shepherd.

In loving memory of departed family members by Vasilios & Vasiliki Fallis.

For the good health of our family by Vasilios & Vasiliki Fallis.

In loving memory of my beloved husband and our father, Christo by Helen, Pete, Thomas, Maria and Konstandina Strates.

In loving memory of Neal C. Delahanty by Melanie Delahanty and children.

In loving memory of Mary Mavromatis by Melanie Delahanty.

In loving memory of Sean & Rachel Carroll by Stan & Angelic Carroll.

In loving memory of our parents by Stan & Angelic Carroll.

In honor of Yiayia Eleftheria and Yiayia Zaharoula by Stavros and Maria Karagiorgis.

In loving memory of departed family members by Nick & Effie Kontos.

In honor of our children and grandchildren by Nick & Effie Kontos.

In loving memory of Sarah by Stevan, Sue and Steve Dupor.

In loving memory of my husband Nick and our parents by Mel N. Anggelis.

In honor of my family by Mel N. Anggelis.

In loving memory of Angelo & Georgia Vlahos by George & Olga Vlahos.

In loving memory of John & Maria Mathes by Olga & George Vlahos.

In loving memory of Konstantina Papathanasiou by her loving family.

In loving memory of Anastas & Katherine Pantelides and Sophie Papajohn by Richard & Diana Cox and family.

In loving memory of Katherine & Anastas Pantelides by Kathy Cox.

In loving memory of our parents and relatives by Tasios & Stavroula Kazakos.

In honor of our children and grandchildren by Tasios & Stavroula Kazakos.

In honor of Savvas Papadopoulos by Dimitrios & Anastasia.

In loving memory of Seraphim & Georgia Balatsia and Haralambos & Maria Tsatsaronis by John & Penny Ballas and family.

For the good health of our families by John & Penny Ballas.

In loving memory of George & Bessie Papadis and Angelo & Georgia Pantazis by John & Louisa Pantazis.

Happy New Year! We ended 2017 celebrated the Holiday at our Christmas Social. It is

always nice making memories with our fellow members while enjoying some refresh-

ments. Thank you, Effie, for opening up your home to us again this year.

As we bring in the New Year, we will be holding our Membership Drive between January

1st through March 31st. Please join us for Margaritas, Meza (appetizers) and Membership

at 7PM, Wednesday, January 10th. We have some activities we would like to plan for

2018, so come and have a voice as we make decisions on what we want to tackle for the

rest of the year. We’ve had a great start, so let’s keep the momentum going.

In Christ's Love, Kiki Gonzales

For with God, all things are possible. LUKE 1:37

Ευτυχισμένο το νέο έτος!

Φτάνοντας στο τέλος του 2017, γιορτάζουμε τα Χριστουγέννα στη γενική μας συνέλευση.Είναι

πάντα ωραία να μοιράζεσαι αναμνήσεις με τους συναδέλφους, απολαμβάνοντας ένα ποτό

ή αναψυκτικό. Ευχαριστούμε Effie, για την φιλοξενία για μια ακόμη χρονιά!

Μετά τον ερχομό του νέου έτους , θα τρέξουμε το Drive Membership μεταξύ της 1ης Ιανουαρίου

και της 31ης Μαρτίου. Σας προσκαλούμε λοιπόν την Τετάρτη 10 Ιανουαρίου στις 7 μμ να ερθετε

για ένα ποτό ή ορεκτικό, και παρακαλείστε και για την ετήσια συνδρομή. Επίσης θα

προγραμματίσουμε τις δραστηριότητες για το 2018. Έλατε να πείτε την γνώμη σας και να

αποφασίσουμε μαζί ως προς το πώς θα κινηθούμε την υπόλοιπη χρονιά. Είχαμε μια καλή αρχή,

οπότε ας συνεχίσουμε με την ίδιο ζήλο και στη συνέχεια.

Εν Χριστώ αγάπη, Κική Γκονζάλες

—- God Sent Forth His Son —-

When the time had fully come — prophetically, politically, lin-guistically, morally and religiously — God sent forth His Son. Not prophets any more. Not patriarchs any more. Not priests. Not angels from heaven. Not kings. But His own Son. “In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world” (Hebrews 1:1-2). God cared enough to send His very best. He spared not His own son. “But last of all he sent unto them his Son, saying, “They will reverence my Son.”

On behalf of the Parish Council, I would like to wish

all of the community a Blessed New Year!

George Bambalis

President, Parish Council

Prayer List

As members of an Orthodox Christian family, we are called upon to pray for each other in time of need. Please pray for:

Stella, Thomas, Marina, Virginia,

Frankie, Stuart, Despina, Paul,

Maria, Pete, Spiro, Demetri and

the extended family, Mary, Mel

If you would like us to remember you or your loved one in our prayers, please contact our Church office at 765-7145. We will begin with a fresh list of names every month.

Parish Council News

We would like to thank ALL who accepted nominations for Parish Council.

The following were elected to serve:

Sammy J. Ballas, Sammy Gianopoulos, Greg Karagiorgis, The Honorable Ted Kazakos, John Kortesis, Peter C. Strates

They will be serving for 2018 & 2019. Our thanks to the nomination committee comprised of George Bambalis, Stan Carroll, Paula Christakos and Nick Karagiorgis.

Our sincere appreciation is expressed to the Parish Council members who have completed their term of office: Helen Bambalis, Ody Chamis, Jimmy Chrysson, Sammy Gianopoulos, Nick Karagiorgis and Jim Paloumbas.

We thank them for their desire to lead our community with dedication and love. A small gift will be offered in behalf of the community on Sunday, January 8.

Χρονια Πολλα και Καλη Χρονια!!!

We are looking forward to anoth-

er wonderful year but like always

it will be off to a very busy

start. Greek School Classes will

resume on Wednesday January

10th. The children will be working on the

Three Hierarchs Performance that will be on

Sunday January 28th in the sanctuary after

church services. We will also be hosting Cof-

fee Hour that day in Honor of the Three Hier-

archs. I will be sending out a sign-up Genius

for that. Also on that day after the Coffee hour

we will be having our first GPTO meeting of

this school year. We have tried to cut back on

the number of meetings because we know you

are all really busy so we need all parents to be

in attendance for this one. We appreciate your

continued support.

In Christ,

Heather Vlachos

CHRISTMAS DONATIONS The white poinsettia that adorned our Altar for the Christmas Season was given in loving memory of our Beloved Father George Thalassinos by the

members of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church.

The red poinsettias that were placed on the solea were in loving memory and in honor of the following:

In memory of my loving husband, Angelo D. Kortesis from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis

In memory of Dimitriou, Vasiliki, and Olga Kortesis and George and Anastasia Vlahos from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis

In memory of Yiannis Vonortas, George C. Vlahos, Tom G. Vlahos, Stefanos and Margarita Drosin-is, Konstantina Pappas and Janice Cude from Mrs. Ricke A. Kortesis

For the Blessed Health of my children, grandchildren and family members from Mrs. Ricke A. Korte-sis

For the Health and Happiness of our family, Ricke, Jimmie, Michelle, Erica, George, JoAnn, Frederi-ca, Konstantina, Angelo, Tracie, Brandon, Michaela, Caitlyn, Jackson, Logan, and Maggie from Richard and Bessie Epes.

In loving memory of our family members who walk with God and are truly missed from the Epes Family

In loving memory of Sarandis & Sophia Kangelaris by Fr. Demetri, Presbytera Olga and family.

In honor of Harry & Maria Koukos’ 67th wedding anniversary by Fr. Demetri, Presbytera Olga and family.

In loving memory of Webb Smalling by Sandy and family.

In loving memory of Andrew Carros and Jim & Helen Tsiolkas by Helen Carros Tsiolkas and family.

In loving memory of departed family members by Tom & Anna Giannopoulos.

For the good health of our family by Tom & Anna Giannopoulos.

In loving memory of our parents and siblings by John & Elizabeth Strates.

For the good health of our family by John & Elizabeth Strates.

In loving memory of our father and grandfather Tom Leloudis by Bobby & Gogo Leloudis and family.

In loving memory of our father Tom Leloudis by George & Lina Leloudis.

For the good health of my children and grandchildren by Sia Leloudis.

In loving memory of Stefano, Virginia, Panagiote and Maria by Gus & Bessie Strates.

In honor and good health of our children and grandchildren by Gus & Bessie Strates.

In loving memory of Alex Fragakis.

In loving memory of Andra Fragakis.

In loving memory of our parents and sons by James & Stavroula Hodges.

In honor of our children and grandchildren by James & Stavroula Hodges.

In loving memory of our parents by Konstantinos & Evangelia Kazakos.

Annunciation Christian Academy Christmas Program

Merry Christmas and

Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year! May Jesus’ light shine on all of us in the upcoming year.

The Sunday School students were excellent stewards during the Stewardship Luncheon that took place on December 10th. Our Angel Choir (grades K-6) did a fantastic job singing Christmas songs and getting us all into the spirit of Christmas. We want to thank Mrs. Connie and Ms. Sandy for organizing such a wonderful program for our parish to enjoy.

Calendar

12/31 No Sunday School 1/7 Regular Schedule 1/14 Regular Schedule 1/21 Angel Choir (K-3) 1/28 Angel Choir (K-3)

Looking ahead…

On February 4th, Godparent/Godchild Sunday will take place and there will be no Sun-day School. Students are encouraged to invite their godparents and/or someone special to attend the Liturgy with them. Please be looking for more information on this.

Additionally, the following dates have been scheduled for the Oratorical Festival:

March 11th: Junior Division March 18th: Senior Division

Please contact Bessie Epes or Ted Kazakos if you are interested in participating.

With Service in Christ,

Fr. Demetri, Fr. Costa & Sunday School Coordinators Zoe Bobotsiares, Helen Karagiorgis & Heather Vlachos

Sunday School News from Annunciation

—- When the Time Had Fully Come —-

Like a doctor, God stood by the side of suffering humanity for centuries listening care-fully to man’s spiritual breathing and taking the pulse of his soul. Suddenly, “when the time had fully come,” He decided that the time had come for surgery. It was to be such delicate surgery that the Master surgeon decided to come down from heaven to perform the surgery Himself.

“But when the time had fully come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (Gal. 4:4-5).

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