The Purpose Driven Life - St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church · march 2013 volume 17 number 3 st. nicholas monthly bulletin st. nicholas greek orthodox church 4967 forest park avenue

MARCH 2013 VOLUME 17 NUMBER 3

ST. NICHOLASMONTHLY BULLETIN

ST. NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH4967 FOREST PARK AVENUEST. LOUIS, MO 63108 -1495

Proistamenos: Fr. Douglas Papulis(636) 527-7843

Parish Priest: Fr. Michael Arbanas(314) 909-6999

Office (314) 361-6924Fax (314) 361-3539

sngoc.org

The Purpose Driven Life

Most of my neighbors are not of my faith. Like most neighborhoods, we do not see much of each other. Everyone seems so busy, but we do check up on each other to be sure that everything is alright; and then on some of those gorgeous days in late winter and early spring, when a few warm days come and give us a reprieve from the harsh winter, we venture outdoors and then we have a grand time talking. Somehow on one of these days, the topic of food came up. I said that at this time I wasn’t aware that the price of meat was sky high because I wasn’t eating any because of Great Lent. I said that I had not purchased any for at least two months because I was emptying out my freezer before it started and would not purchase any until the last week in April because “My” Easter was on May 5. They were surprised about this. It is disturbing that although this area has many Orthodox churches, only one neighbor, a former Franciscan, knew that there was a religion such as Orthodox before they met us.

This led me to thinking, where have we gone wrong? Why have we kept this treasure buried and not shared? I have been receiving much literature on “The Purpose Driven Life” and the “Purpose Driven Church.” Over 19 million copies in the English language have been sold. There is much to be faulted in the plan but the enthusiasm

and commitment it inspires in people for its six-week or forty-day plan bears mention. I was discussing this with a fellow Orthodox who commented that the Orthodox Great Lent is 40 days. Have you any comments?

Great Lent is a journey. As such, our journey will be successful toward our goal—the Glorious Resurrection—as the preparations we make for it. The Church guides us, it provides us with many specific services—the Canon of Andrew, the Akathists, the Paraclesis, the Pre-Sanctified Liturgies, the St. Basil Liturgy, the Mission Services where we meet to strengthen each other on the road, and for those who live in areas where there are no Orthodox Churches it can provide lists of books and literature to help you with your prayer, study and meditative life. The Orthodox Church has over 2000 years of experience in the purpose driven life of the forty-day period we call Great Lent. However, it does not benefit us if we do not take advantage of this help and knowledge.

I end this with the greeting the “old people” gave each other when meeting during Great Lent. “May you have a good Lent and live to greet the Holy Resurrection.”

—Presvytera Nina StroyenEditor of Orthodox Herald

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin MARCH 2013

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St. Nicholas ServantsParish CouncilGeorge Bude, President 314-579-9151Steve Ott, Vice-President 636-230-8066 Mary Ann Mastorakos, Secretary 636-532-3222Demetrios Tsikalas, Treasurer 314-481-6879Nicky Antoniou 314-878-7720Michael Ferretti 636-458-8577Dr. Andrew Galakatos 314-922-4457Yemane Habtu 636-532-4665Alexandra Kavourinos 314-862-2866Dr. William Mastorakos 314-966-4117Pete Papadopoulos 314-721-6599Sakis Salas 636-379-2109Peter Takes 314-862-2866Peter Vaccaro 314-781-7700George Zotos 636-530-6988Audit Committee Janet Pappageorge 314-878-3513Harry Lemakis 314-631-1619Peter Lemakis 314-965-6137Mark Vleisides 314-576-2898Stewardship CommitteeFr. Douglas Papulis 314-361-6924Teddy Hart, Chairperson 314-997-4826George Bude 314-579-9151Michael Ferretti 636-458-8577John Koch 636-922-7732Mary Ann Mastorakos 636-532-3222Steve Ott 636-230-8066Michael Pappas 636-207-7789Michael Tsichlis 314-849-2309Demetrios Tsikalas 314-481-6879Chris Varvares 314-374-3674Cemetery Committee Irene Schildroth 314-845-2434Pat Johnson 314-832-0061William Karides 636-281-0727Election CommitteeAndrew Efthim 636-938-6787Jim English 314-355-1372Teddy Hart 314-997-4826Harry Lemakis 314-631-1619Nick Tharenos 314-576-7011Library Committee Elaine Coulson 314-991-5033Michael Kontominas 314-997-1299Michael Tsichlis 314-842-1604Physical Facilities Pat Johnson 314-832-0061Leo C. Pashos 314-351-0516Paul Efthim 314-892-9832Physical Facilities Family Life Center Nick Tharenos 314-576-7011George A. Pappas 314-569-1890Sam Mezines 314-878-8144Planned GivingJohn Koch, Chairman 636-922-7732Voula Francis 314-822-1176Sakis Salas 636-379-2109Dan Tarlas 314-968-5010Peter Vaccaro 314-781-7700Scholarship Committee Barbara Corrigan 314-576-1576 Tina Fakonas 636-394-5339 Denise Karras 314-368-4205Philoptochos Christina Anastas, President 314-647-4636

St. Irenaeus Orthodox Theological InstituteMichael G. Tsichlis, PhD 314-361-6924 Ext 330Church School Director Jenny Pappas 636-207-7789Handmaidens Alex Kavourinos 314-862-2866Rosie Hartley 618-239-9359Dance Troupe - Georgia Johnson 314-832-0061GOYA -Helen Carey 636-458-5173 -Mark & Renee Vleisides 314-576-2898JR. GOYA - Mimi Davis 636-532-4470 -Debbie Palazzola 636-458-2133 HOPE - Presvytera Caroline Arbanas 314-909-6999 - Nadina Robinson 314-457-8511 Our Little Angels/Cherubs - Bess Fitzmaurice 636-343-3849- - Cynthia Pappas 314-365-3131

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Following are remarks I made on “Stewardship Awareness Sunday,” January 27. Due to an inclement weather prediction very few parishioners were in church. Therefore, I am re-stating them.

“The Parish Council has seen fit to bestow upon me the honor and privilege of leading the parish as president for the next year, but with it comes the sobering reality of a mortgage debt of 5.8 million dollars and an expense budget of 1.4 million dollars. Thus, we are faced with a daunting financial challenge which although intimidating can be fulfilled and even surmounted.

“However, it will require an awareness by each of us to take on his or her “fair share” of the burden—which brings me to the purpose of my remarks this morning. The Parish Council and the Stewardship Committee have designated today as “Stewardship Awareness Sunday,” the purpose of which is to focus on the recognition and appreciation of our financial relationship and, yes, our obligation to our Lord and this parish.

“What is our fair share of the burden? Twenty-one of our members believe their fair share is a pledge of at least ten thousand dollars per year for ten years and in recognition thereof they have been designated as members of Leadership St. Nicholas. Another 16 members believe their fair share is 5% of their annual income, indefinitely, and in recognition thereof they have been designated Super Stewards.

“There is another stewardship level suggested on the pledge sheet—that being 3% of the pledgor’s annual income. For example, if one’s income is $40,00 per year, his/her fair share would be $1200; $50,000-$1500 and so forth.

“Some of you might consider 3% as beyond what is fair or what you think you can afford. In response I say that many churches suggest or require that their parishioners “tithe” to the church; i.e., give 10% of their income. 3% is less than a third of tithing and in comparison is certainly not confiscatory. So if you can’t join Leadership St. Nicholas or become a Super Steward you should at least seriously consider allocating 3% of your income toward stewardship.

“This perhaps is a radical departure from the past when 300, 400, or 500 dollars seemed appropriate. That misunderstood culture has existed in this parish for far too long. We cannot sustain our church and family life center on pledges in those amounts, This is your parish—not the Priests’ parish or the Parish Council’s parish. The attitude of “let the other fellow do it” is not only misplaced but selfish. Each of us must “carry his own water,” so to speak.

“Please don’t misunderstand. Some of our retired parishioners, who are living on→

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3Please visit us at www.sngoc.org

Social Security and a small amount of savings cannot be expected to meet the 3% minimum. That holds true for those of us who have lost their jobs or simply have a very small income and a family to support. However, for the rest of us we owe it to our God, our church and to one another to see to it that His house is properly cared for and maintained, and that the ministries of the church, e.g., our Sunday School, are properly funded so that they can grow and flourish rather than stagnate and wither.

“To date we have received 228 pledges, totaling $448,911 which is a good start. Many of you have made generous pledges. A few have doubled their pledge from last year, and many have increased substantially, pledging well over $1,000 up to $5,000, $6,000 and $7,000 in three instances.

“However, 65 of those pledges are for $400 or less, and more dramatically, 23 are for under $100. With that kind of response we will not make our budget of $664,000. We still need $216,000 in pledges,

“I am hopeful, however, that we will do better than that. If those of you here today who have not pledged would commit to Leadership St. Nicholas or Super Steward or become a 3% pledgor we will have a good chance not only to make budget but to exceed it.

“As to those of you who have already pledged but for less than you think you can afford, I hope that you would reconsider your pledge and ask for another pledge sheet by calling Katherine Ellis at the church office, 314-361-6924. How gratifying it would be if some of you recognize your obligation and submit a supplemental pledge sheet.

“Wouldn’t it be nice to have a total budget surplus at the end of the year instead of a deficit?”

Yours in Christ,

George J. Bude

PLANNED GIVING…..The Eternal Light Society of

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

Announcing the creation of The Eternal Light Society of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church! This is the official St. Nicholas Planned Giving Ministry operated under the St. Nicholas Stewardship Ministry. Our Planned Giving Ministry is headed up by John Koch, with guidance and resource assistance from group members that include Voula Francis, JD, Sakis Salas, CFP®, Peter Vaccaro, LUTCF and Dan Tarlas.

The Mission is “to educate and inform parishioners of the opportunities available to them to provide a legacy gift to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.” To launch this Ministry, we will host an initial educational presentation on the Basics of Planned Giving, led by Mr. Michael C. Weeks, CELA, Estate Planning Attorney, on Saturday, February 16, 2013 at the Family Life Center beginning at 4:00 pm. A second presentation on the same subject will be held Sunday, February 24, at Church, beginning at Noon. The topics to be covered by Mr. Weeks include:

· Direct Gift from an Individual Retirement Account (“IRA”)Bequests

· Gift of Appreciated Stock and Other Assets

· Charitable Gift Annuity

· Charitable Remainder Trust/Charitable Lead Trust, and

· Much more!

These presentations are designed to educate parishioners of all ages about the various opportunities by which Legacy Gifts can be made to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Depending on the situation, such gifts may yield valuable tax and other important benefits. The members of the Planned Giving Ministry are dedicated to helping you learn about various gifting strategies, and assist you in the event you are considering making such gifts.

More announcements will be made about future presentations that will focus on one or two types of Planned Giving to SNGOC. The Planned Giving members will be available to answer your questions on a private one-on-one basis, with the highest level of confidentiality.


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SUPER STEWARD PROGRAM

COMMITMENTS

(as of February 12, 2013)We wish to thank the following pa-rishioners who have committed to the Super Steward Program begin-ning in 2013:

“St. Nicholas Super Stewards” make a commitment to contribute at least 5% of household income, and pledge to provide leadership and direction to the church through attendance at parish meetings. It is understood that this pledge covers any Brick Campaign and Mortgage Paydown payments already being made.

George and Mary BudeNicholas Byron

Timothy and Christine CameneGeorge and Frances Demetre*

Katherine EllisMichael and Georgia Ferretti

Catherine JonesMichael & Maria Kamburis

Harry and Christine Lemakis*Mary Ann MastorakosMary C. Mastorakos

Cynthia MilonasWilliam and Charlene Mitchell

Pete and Teeshia NezamisSylvia NicozisinKathrine SharosPeter Vaccaro*

Elias Yannakakis

*New Commitment

LEADERSHIP ST. NICHOLAS UPDATE(as of February 12, 2013)

St. Nicholas Church would like to recognize and thank the following parishioners who are charter members of our new “Leadership St. Nicholas” stewardship program. Starting in 2013, the 21 Parishioners listed below have agreed to commit a minimum pledge of $10,000 per year for the next 10 years.

Beyond their very generous financial support, they have agreed to provide leadership and direction to the parish through participation at general assemblies and other important parish gatherings. They will also offer their assistance to Father Doug as our Church Family seeks increased financial support from the St. Nicholas Community.

Please join us in thanking the following individuals:

Steve and Diana OttFr. Doug and Christina PapulisJason and Barbara PulosJohn and Gina RussonKatherine RutterDrs. David and Martha SewallGeorge and Ann SourisGeorge and Kim TarlasDemetrios and Jackie TsikalasChris and Jill VarvaresTom and Daphne Whaley

AnonymousGus and Angie DemosAndrew EfthimDr. Andrew GalakatosDrs. Greg and JoAnn GalakatosBill and Diana GraysonJim and Teddy HartDean KalomasJohn and Mary Anne Koch*Bess Millonas

To date the Leadership St. Nicholas and Super Steward Programs have raised $262,810, a terrific beginning to meeting our stewardship goal which is to increase stewardship overall by 25%. Our budget goal is $664,000.

Won’t you please consider joining the dedicated stewards listed above by either pledging $10,000 for ten years or by pledging 5% of your household income each year. If not, at least consider a pledge of 3% of your annual income which is a third pledge level suggested on the pledge sheet,

*New Commitment



Trifon and Laura AbatgisTom and Stacey AlexanderJulia AmbrozatChristina AnastasGeorge and Patricia AnastasStephanie AnastasMichael and Juliet AngelidesGeorge AngelosSteve Angelos Vasso AngelosThomas and Ann AntoniouKonstantinos and Georgia AntonopoulosFr. Michael and Caroline ArbanasCostas and Assimo AzariadisNickolas and Danene BettaBecky BrooksVirginia CalbosDennis and Helen CareyMatina (Stamatina) CassimatisNicholas and Susan CassimatisTed and Stacey CassimatisGus CatsavisAdonis ChakidesGeorge and Jacquenell ChakidesDanae CharalambousHarry CharlesJanine ChohlisGeorge and Anna ChrissosJohn ClonesKatherine CondaxisChristopher & Robyn ConstantinidesFrancis and Stephany CaronaRoxana CouteranisNicholas CowlenMaria CutsoukosAnastasios and Linda DagartzikasGeorge DamosHellen DemmasJames and Theresa DemosTheodore and Helen DemosAlexis DendrinelisSocrates DendrinelisSophia DendrinelisTheodore and Beverly DoiasDavid DoranDimitri EckFrank and Carol Efthim

Janet EfthimRichard and Dena EfthimGeorge and Diane EllisJim and Jennifer EnglishAnastassios and Christina FakonasEdward FerrettiLyndia FinerLeonard and Katherine ForstingAgnes FryntzkoJim and Stacie FryrearNicholas and Nancy GaddisChristopher and Kimberly GalakatosTheresa GalakatosCleopatra GeorgesNiko and Alexia GeorgesMichael and Nicholetta GertkenNicholas and Kathleen GinosKathryn GitchoPaul and Stella GitchosGeorge and Stephanie GlioumasByron and Carolyn GolfinLeon and Elaine GolfinChristopher and Georgiana GrantJames and Audrey GuarinoAlexandra GuentherYemane and Abrahatzion HabtuGeorge HarocoposBetty HeineAaron and Kathy HinniAlexandra HowerJustin and Margaret JemasNoel and Marilynn JemasRobert and Stacey JurgielIrene KallaosSavas and Jeraldine KallaosTom and Mersine KallaosMaria KaragianisAchilles and Dorothea KarakasWilliam and Pam KaridesValerie KarrasHarriet KastarisNicholas KatsarasDemetrios and Amy KatsikasJimmy and Brenda KavadasDan and Anne KazanasStephen and Tinna KingJohn and Katina Kirby

Thomas and Katina KirkkouJames and Denice KnicosJohn and Mary Anne KochLeopold and Cynthia KonczakNick and Jamie KondisConstantine and Ann KontoleonNicholas KontrasStella KrekorianCatherine KrewetTheodore and Susan LamprosChristopher LearaPaul and Helen LearaMatt and Gloria LeeboltPeter and Susan LemakisConstance LewisTerry and Kathy LivaditisMichael and Susan MadduxChrist and Filareti MalamasTom and Jennifer MalamasChrist and Trigona MaleasTom and Frieda MaleasKonstantinos and Eleftheria ManolisJeffrey and Andrea MarkwardtDena MarmigasGlenn and K. Sandy MartinJason and Claire MartinMichael and Dawn MasonWilliam MastorakosJordan and Barbara MavromatisGregory and Cheryl McDermottBruce and Veronica McGregorColin and Stephanie McPherronJames and Fleeda MemosAdamantia MenasAthan and Bonnie MertisChris and Mary MezinesSam and Maureen MezinesIrene MillerRoger and Athena MillerMichael and Tasia MillonasWilliam and Claudia MillonasJohn MilonasRobert and Mary MucklerBenjamin and Betsy MurphyEmmanuel and Gina NakisNick NezamisJoe and Helen Nichoalds

List continues on Page 6

ST. NICHOLAS STEWARDS - as of February 12, 2013


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ST. NICHOLAS STEWARDS (Continued from Page 5)

Mekonnen OgbeMary O’HaraCarl and Nancy OtsoJoseph and Deborah PalazzolaDimitrios and Cathy PanopoulosPete and Estelle PapadopoulosJanet PapageorgeAlexandra PapanicolaouAndrew PapayDino and Michelle PappasGeorge and Bess PappasJane PappasStephen and Carol PappasChristopher and Christine ParadowskiLeo and Despina PashosAngelo PaspalasGeorge PaspalasVictoria PeppesCharles and Katharine PerkinsFrieda PerkinsAnastasia PetersonMargaret PierroutsakosSophia PierroutsakosEllen PiskosAlexandra PlatipodisNick and Maria PlatipodisClark and Tumica PorterBoris and Georgia PrstojevichMary PulosElizabeth RiethmannScot and Christiane RoemerOlga SalasSakis and Cathy SalasNicholas and Tania ScarpinoIrene SchildrothConstantin and Janet ShamiaRichard and Katia ShasserreThomas and Doloris SkalasByron and Stacy SmyrniotisJames Jr. and Carmen SorbelloJames Sr. and Catherine SorbelloJohn and Hariklia SourisKosmas and Despina SourisLeon and Johanna SpanosMagdalen SpirosJohn and Maria SpiveyPete D. And Teresa Stavrides

Steven and Michelle StorgionSophia StrickerJames and Anne StrongPeter and Alexandra TakesJohn TanurchisLeonora TaratsasGus TassosJohn TassosMulugheta and Zegge TeferiNick and Becky TharenosTom and Vicki ThavoridesGeorge TheodoreArgyirios and Evangelia TheodorouStacy and Matthew ThompsonJeanne TomprasEvelyn TrakasMary TsichlisMichael and Vasilika TsichlisPenny TsichlisNiki TallimantosCatherine TsimprisJohanna VaheyHarry and Florence VarsamMary VararesKon VelliosMark and Renee VleisidesMary VolasLoretta WackerMark and Sophia WestfallDon and Susan WinterMary WoodcockChris and Nicole WoodromeMark and Patricia WunderlichAndrew and Karen YannakakisPeter and Suzanne YannakakisAlexandra ZahariasAnthony and Karen ZamanAnn ZotosGeorge and Dianne ZotosKatherine Zotos

Schnucks eScrip

Schnucks offers a program that rewards customer loyalty by contributing a percentage of purchases to your chosen non-profit group that supports the education, development and betterment of youth. St. Nicholas is now a registered beneficiary of eScrip in partnership with Schnucks. Through your patronage of Schnucks and the use of the Schnucks eScrip Community Card, you can help St. Nicholas earn dollars.

Here’s how the eScrip program works. Pick up a card at Church or at your Schnucks and register the card for use in the St. Nicholas program. You can register online (http://www.escrip.com/merchnts/identity/schnucks/community stl.jsp) or call 800-931-6258 from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday. There are a number of organizations with similar names registered throughout the country, so you could use St. Nicholas eScrips Group ID (164502657) or our zip code (63108) to locate and select the right organization. Then, all you need to do is present your card to the cashier when you purchase your groceries at Schnucks and St. Nicholas will receive a contribution based on the following formula:

1% on monthly purchases between $0 and $300, plus

2% on monthly purchases between $301 & $600,plus

3% on monthly purchases between $601 & $999.

If 200 parishioners spent, on average, $500 per month at Schnucks and used their card, they would generate $24,000 in gross contributions annually. eScrip charges a 15% fee and so the net annual proceeds to St. Nicholas in this example would be $20,400.

This is such an easy way to earn

funds for our St. Nicholas Community!



February 25-March 2This is a fast-free week. Meat is eaten even on Wednesday and Friday. By remitting this rule, the Church stresses that the true humility of the Publican is the true trait of the Christian heart rather than merely external mortification that generates pride as it did in the heart of the Pharisee, who boasted that he fasted twice a week.

Sunday, March 3This is called the Sunday of the Prodigal Son from the reading for the day—Luke 15:11-32. This reminds us that we must repent before we can hope to return to the Father. “I have recklessly forgotten Thy glory, O Father, and among sinners I have scattered the riches which Thou gave me. And I now cry to Thee as the Prodigal: I have sinned before Thee, O merciful Father, receive me as a penitent and make me as one of Thy hired hands.”

Saturday, March 9This is the first Soul Saturday or “Ancestors’ Saturday.” On this day and the following Soul Saturdays, we remember all those who in the faith have fallen asleep in the Lord. We pray for all deceased forefathers, parents and relatives for whom the time of repentance is past, and who can obtain mercy of God through the prayers of us, the living. We pray for the souls of all the faithful who are awaiting the Last Judgment. We should give a list of all whom we wish to be prayed for by name to the priest.

Sunday, March 10Meatfare, or Last Judgment Sunday, Matthew 25:31-46. The services for today are interwoven with fear of eternal damnation and a firm resolution to reform. At vespers is read: “O my soul, beware before the end, and cry out ‘O God, my God, save me once again, for Thou alone are the merciful One!” This is the last day on which meat is eaten until Pascha/Easter.

Sunday, March 17This is known as Cheesefare or Forgiveness Sunday. Matthew 6:14-21. This is the last day before Great Lent

BEGINNING OF HOLY LENT 2013begins. The gospel admonishes us to forgive men their transgressions. It is customary at the vespers of this day to ask and receive mutual reconciliation. This custom is founded on the words of Jesus heard today: “For if you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” The altar cloths are dramatically changed from light to dark, as are the vestments of the altar servers during this touching service. The music also changes to special minor Lenten modes In a pensive mood; we go forth into the world prepared for the fasting, prayer and repentance of Lent.

Monday, March 18—Clean MondayThis is the beginning of Clean Week, the First Week of Lent. Moving hymns and prayers that were composed by such holy men as St. John of Damascus, Cosmos of Maium, St. Andrew of Crete and others distinguish the services of Lent. Added to the prayers of the Church and our own daily prayers is the one composed by St. Ephraim. The prayer sums up all that is essential in spiritual life. Even meditating on the first few words “O Lord and Master of my life” would help one to more deeply enter into the relationship and one’s soul.

—Orthodox Herald

ON THE SAINTSSt. Eubuia - March 30

She was the wife of the fanatic idol-worshipper Eustorgius. She endured his evil ways courageously for many years. She was from a Christian family, and showed greater zeal for the Orthodox faith than her husband did in his service to falsehood. She was the mother of the Great Martyr, Panteleimon, and cared more for his soul than for his body. She reposed while her son was still young, but in peace, for she had nourished him upon the waters of Christ. She was not afraid that his orphanhood or the mania of his father would lead him astray and her faith was not mistaken. From heaven she saw the victories and crowns of her son. (Nicomodia, Asia Minor, 3-4th C.)


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1 F 1 Jn 2:7-17 Mk 14:3-9 2 S 1 Tim 6:11-16 Lk 20:46-47;21:1-4 Sun 3 1 Cor 6:12-20 Lk 15:11-32 4 M 1 Jn 2:18-29;3:1-8 Mk 11:1-11 5 T 1 Jn 3:9-22 Mk 14:10-42 6 W 1 Jn 3:21-24;4:1-11 Mk 14:43-72;15:1 7 T 1 Jn 4:20-21;5:1-21 Mk 15:1-15 8 F Heb 12:1-10 Mt 20:1-16* 9 S 1 Thes 4:13-17 Lk 21:25-27,35-36 Sun 10 1 Cor 8:8-13;9:1-2 Mt 25:31-46 11 M 3 Jn 1:1-15 Lk 19:29-40;22-7-39 12 T Jude 1:1-10 Lk 22:39-42,45-71;23:1 13 W Joel 3:12-21 Joel 2:12-26 14 T Jude 1:11-25 L 23:1-31,33,44-56 15 F Zech 8:7-17 Zech 8:19-23** 16 S Gal 5:22-6:2 Mt 6:1-13 Sun 17 Rom 13:11-14;14:1-4 Mt 6:14-21+ 18 M Gen 1:1-13 Prov 1:1-20 19 T Gen 1:14-23 Prov 5:1-15;Is 5:2-16 20 W Gen 1:24-31 Prov 2:1-12 21 T Gen 2:4-19 Prov 3:1-19 22 F Gen 2:20-3:20 Prov 3:19-34*** 23 S 2 Tim 2:1-10 Mk 2:23-28;3:1-5 Sun 24 Heb 11:24-26;32-40 Jn 1:44-52 25 M Heb 2:11-18 Lk 1:24-38 26 T Gen 4:8-15 Prov 5:1-15 27 W Gen 4:16-26 Prov 5:15-23;6:1-3 28 T Gen 5:1-24 Prov 6:3-20 29 F Gen 5:32-6:8 Prov 6:20-7:1 30 S Heb 3:12-16 Mk 1:35-44++ Sun 31 Heb 1:10-14;14;2:1-3 Mk 2:1-12 * 1st Saturday of the Souls ** 2ndSaturday of the /Souls + Great Holy Lent Begins (Clean Monday) ***3rd Saturday of the Souls ++Celebration of Books Week

DAILY BIBLE READING GUIDEMARCH 2013

PARISH LIFE

BAPTISMS“All you who have been baptized in Christ”

THOMASSon of Andrew and Alexandra GuentherGodparent: Sarah Whaley

MASON JAMESSon of Matthew & Gloria LeeboltGodparent: Heather Westfall

BETELIHEMDaughter of Mogos & Himeret AbrahaGodparent: Mezan Oqbe

AUSBY MICHAELSon of Evan & Catherine SotiriouGodparent: Demetra Sotiriou

FUNERALS“Where the Righteous Rest”

January 17th Agnes BotomleyJanuary 19th Christine VazopolosJanuary 22nd Mary G. CoukoulisJanuary 25th George A. OttFebruary 5th Alexandra NesbitFebruary 6th George P. CassimatisFebruary 11th George Krekorian

MEMORIALS

March 3rd 1 Year Cleopatra GalakatosMarch 10th 40 Day George P. Cassimatis 4 Year Andrew P. CassimatisMarch 31st 6 Month Nikolaos S. Botonis

May their memory be eternal.



HARNESSING THE TALENTS OF A GREAT PARISHMarch Stewardship Report

Who Are We, And Where Do We Go From Here?

Part 2—who are we—as friends, especially friends in christ?

The Wednesday morning Men’s Group had an incredibly powerful session several weeks ago, and with a record gathering of 18. That may not sound like many, but the room was at capacity, and the feeling of connection was unmistakable. The discussion was real and genuine. Through this ministry, men are doing what men have had so much trouble doing historically, expressing their faith and admitting their vulnerability before the Lord. There were men born into the Orthodox faith and men who have married into it. Papous, and men with newborns. Father Michael’s topic was friendship, and as he always does, he referenced Christ in Scripture. To a man, it can be said that each was humbled, open and honest, and energized.

Friendship is commonly misunderstood. We have “friends,” but often they are actually acquaintances, such as at work, with whom we are friendly, but without that setting we would have no connection. We all have had people we thought were friends, but who effectively terminated the relationship once they got what they wanted out of us. Who are our real friends, upon whom we can depend when the chips are down? Who would never in a million years take advantage of us? Who we could turn to for anything, anytime?

We all agreed that many of us have childhood friendships that have lasted to this day, and they are quite probably not fellow Orthodox. We have true friends from other settings than childhood. But one man put it best that morning—he made the distinction between the word “friend” and a word with a much deeper meaning,

“brotherhood.”At Church, and especially a parish where generations

have come, we have an advantage. We are drawn by our desire to worship, but the bonds have deeper roots than a Sunday service. It may sound corny, but it’s real—there exists a brotherhood.

For many of us, our grandparents came over here together. Our parents grew up together. We grew up together. To call many of us merely friends does not do the relationships justice. We are brothers and sisters, but more precisely, we are brothers and sisters in Christ. This Men’s Group hit on all cylinders that morning, as it does most mornings. We came away with a heightened sense of who we are to each other. There were converts in the room who spoke openly about how they established their connections within this framework, and men who have

moved into town. These men are deepening their bonds to the parish. But the common denominator in everyone is Christ.

We have, through this deeper relationship, the unique ability to take someone not born of this parish and literally adopt him or her—right into parish life—right into pareia—right into everything that we stand for—in Christ. Just being Greek won’t do it, but being Orthodox, enriched by the traditions that come with it will. As Orthodox we have the most consistent theological basis upon which to worship that is possible. Admittedly it’s a bit complicated sometimes, but we have two willing priests and others knowledgeable in the religion willing to explain. All we have to do is want it. If this parish is to grow, we must invite others to want it as well. We can take care of the “adoption.”

The numbers over the last few decades tell a real story—many from that core that we grew up with have died, some have moved away, and some have gone to other religions. In order to survive and indeed thrive going forward, we must—we must—invite those not originally in our parish into it with open arms and give them the chance to take ownership in the Orthodox— enriched by the Greek experience. Whether we realize it or not, going forward we’ll be more and more identified as Orthodox, enriched by our ethnic heritage. It is a rich heritage, and it is naturally inviting to others. Let’s make it so.

And yes, this is perhaps an ultimate form of stewardship.

If you would like to discuss stewardship, please call Michael Pappas (636-207-7789 at home or 314-973-7799 at work) or the church office.

ON THE BIBLE—FaithfulnessScripture gives us many examples of people who were faithful to God, teaching us that without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). We read about one of them in Hebrews 11, Abraham, who received many blessings because of his faith. When Abraham’s faith in God was tested, he was willing to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. God was pleased with his faithfulness and delivered his son from death, and Abraham became known as the father of the faithful. Like Abraham, we are chosen to have unconditional faith in God, regardless of our circumstances. Our faithfulness to God might be tested at various times in our lives, but it is important not to lose faith in those times, and continue trusting in God’s eternal love and mercy. When we are faithful like Abraham, we will be a blessing to others as well, just as Abraham’s descendants were blessed because of his faith.


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PHILOPTOCHOS CORNER - MARCH 2013

Annual Vasilopita Celebration was held on Sunday, January 13 – we thank Ann Zotos, Chair, for another successful fundraiser to St. Basil’s Academy and Georgia Ferretti, Chair, and her committee for a delicious Vasilopita Luncheon. A very special thank you to the ladies who baked and donated the Vasilopita Bread: Aliki Bibas, Vassiliki Dubis, Chrysoula Panopoulos, Becky Tharenos, Maria Zouglas and Thomai Karakasis. These contributions continue to be a tremendous support for the Academy and we thank our St.Nicholas parishioners, church groups and organizations for their general donations and continued support. For more than half a century, St. Basil Academy has provided a “home away from home” for Orthodox young people who come from broken homes, or are victims of poverty, abuse or abandonment.

General Membership Brunch Meeting – Saturday, January 26 – Our membership brunch was a huge success! Over 60 in attendance joined us for a lovely brunch catered by Kerry Boudoures. We welcome our new members: Fifi Scarato and Despina Souris. We were honored to have as our guest His Eminence, Metropolitan Tarasios of Buenos Aires. His Eminence graced us with a few words and was so pleased with our St. Nicholas Philoptochos and all that we do.

The Haven of Grace Shower – Tuesday, January 29 – The Haven of Grace hosted a lovely Community Baby Shower benefiting the mothers and babies of The Haven of Grace at the Family Life Center. The ladies of Haven of Grace served a beautiful and delicious complimentary buffet. Over sixty attended the shower. The Haven’s Wish List of gift cards, diapers, clothes and much more filled the room. Christina Anastas and Jeanne Tompras were presented with a monogrammed plaque and gifts for assisting with the shower. Many thanks to Susan Cox, Chair, and Cyndi Miller, Director of Development and Community Relations for organizing the event.

Glendi Luncheon/Pre-Lenten Bake Sale – Sunday, February 3 – Congratulations to Nikki Gertken and Becky Liringis, Co-chairs, and their committee for a lovely luncheon. The auditorium was decorated in a Valentine

setting. A very special thank you to the ladies for donating the delicious homemade pastries for our parishioners and friends to enjoy for their Super Bowl party. Results will be given at the General Meeting on March 14.

Godparent’s Day – Sunday, February 3 – We celebrated the privilege of Holy Communion with our Godchildren. We thank Roxane Couteranis for chairing this special day and for the delicious cookies.

Koliva - One tray was prepared in December, 3 trays in January, and 8 trays in February. Thank you to all those who have helped prepare trays in the past year: Bess Millonas, Irene Schildroth, Cleo Georges, Chris and Tina Paradowski, Haroula Souris, Gina Russon, and Ed Ferretti.

Sandwiches for the Needy - Thank you to the following for preparing sandwiches: Vasiliki Dubis and Cleo Tarlas in January; Nadina Robinson and the 4th Grade Sunday School Class in February; and Bess Millonas and Stephanie Glioumas in March.

Coffee Hour - Thank you to Mary Bude and Kathrine Sharos for hosting in December and Georgia Johnson and the St. Nicholas Dancers for hosting in January and February.

Save the Date – Thursday, March 14 – General Meeting – Please join us for dinner at 6:00 p.m. at the Family Life Center. Guest Speaker, Eric John Shanburn, FOCUS- Gateway City, St. Louis Director, will be joining us for a special program.

Save the Date- Monday, March 18 – Lenten Luncheon (First Day of Lent) – Philoptochos Board will host its Annual Lenten Luncheon following the 11:00 a.m. Compline Service. The ladies will be selling their delicious “Laganes” Traditional Bread. Please place your orders with Kathy Ellis (314.361.6924) by Wednesday, March 13. Orders can be picked up Sunday, March 17 or Monday, March 18. Proceeds from the sale of the bread will benefit Philoptochos’ Families in Need.

Save-the Date- Wednesday, March 20 – Pre-Sanctified



Dinner – Philoptochos will host its Annual Pre-Sanctified Dinner after Liturgy in the Philoptochos Room at the Family Life Center. We hope you can join us.

Save the Date – Sunday, March 24 – Sunday of Orthodoxy – St. Nicholas will be the host church for this year’s Vesper’s and buffet dinner. Christine Lemakis and Roxane Couteranis, Co-chairs, will spearhead this lovely event.

Save the Date – Sunday, April 28 – Palm Sunday Brunch. Once again Philoptochos will host its Annual Palm Sunday Brunch. Please join us with your family and friends for a delicious brunch: Sautéed Lemon Fish, Gourmet Omelets, Poached Salmon, Assorted Pastries, Champagne Mimosas and Children’s Buffet. A special afternoon is planned for the children. Adults - $20 and Children under 12 - $5. More details to follow.

Philoptochos Board Elections – If you are interested in running for the Board please contact Sandra Kamburis, Screening Committee Chair, 314.952.9958 or [email protected] no later than March 21, 2013. All candidates seeking election to the Board of Directors must qualify in accordance with the Philoptochos Bylaws. To be qualified for election to the Board of Directors, the member must have been a member in good standing of the Parish and the Chapter for a period of at least one year prior and must have attended a minimum of four meetings held in the year previous to the election year. All candidates must be present at the election meeting. Board Elections will be held at the General Assembly Meeting on May 9, 2013.

Calendar of Events

Sat. – 3/02 Trivia NightThurs. – 4/11 Board MeetingFri. – 5/03 EpitaphionSun. – 5/05 - Agape ReceptionThurs. – 5/09 General Meeting to Elect Board of DirectorsSat. – 5/18 A Festival of Tables

The Cherubs and HOPE groups participated in a Christmas Cookie Baking Event at St. Nicholas Church. Many thanks to the kids from Jr. GOYA and GOYA who helped with the event.

—Photos Courtesy of Nadina Robinson

HOPE - Presvytera Caroline Arbanas 314-909-6999 - Nadina Robinson 314-457-8511

Our Little Angels/Cherubs - Bess Fitzmaurice 636-343-3849- - Cynthia Pappas 314-365-3131

Advisors for HOPE / LITTLE ANGELS / CHERUBS


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MEMORIAL DONATIONS - January 10th thru February 10th

CHURCH FUND

In Memory of Christos C. ChronopoulosDan & Andrea TarlasIn Memory of Kristina M. BamvakaisRobert & Susan SchoelchSteven & Pamela OttoIn Memory of Karen Whaley RuggMercine & Tom KallaosIn Memory of Agnes BottomleyJill & Gary LewisHelen EvangelidesMs. Geri WeatherbyGene & Dorothy TricoliEdward FerrettiMaureen & Richard Pollitt FamilyIn Memory of Christine VazopolosRobert & Kathy WebbAngelina BorodemosEdward & Barbara RechtienCarmen MamasNick & Olga GakesJohn & Lisa HillenbrandKatherine GeorgenThe Belcher FamilyHelen & Chris Christ

“Your friends at the YMCA”Fay ThavoridesMarti & Bob FowlerIn Memory of Mary G. CoukoulisMary C. MastorakosHelen C. HassakisKatherine EllisGeorge P. PaspalasMr. & Mrs. George PappasEdward FerrettiIn Memory of George OttSusan & Mike MadduxBertha LappasEunice KreherEdith S. Walker FamilyMr. & Mrs. Otto BruecknerIn Memory of Ruth HartMichael & Georgia Ferretti

FAMILY LIFE CENTER

In Memory of Kristina M. BamvakaisJanet E. PapageorgeIn Memory of Christine Vazopolos

Cynthia MilonasKatherine EllisJanet E. PapageorgeLeon & Johanna SpanosIn Memory of Mary G. CoukoulisCleo F. TarlasIn Memory of Estella RuzickaAlexandra KamakasIn memory of George CassimatisMary C. MastorakosHelen C HassakisKatherine EllisSocrates DendrinelisAndrew Cassimatis & FamilyCarol CassimatisAngelo P. Paspalas

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

In Memory of Marina VerreosHarry & Christine LemakisIn Memory of Anthony N. ThavoridesHarry & Christine LemakisIn Memory of Virginia DoumourasHarry & Christine LemakisIn Memory of Christos C. ChronopoulosHarry & Christine LemakisPhillip & Elaine KavanaughIn Memory of Marion BogdanovichHarry & Christine LemakisIn memory of Kristina M. BamvakaisMr. & Mrs. George A. SourisHarry & Christine LemakisIn memory of Nicholas VelliosMr. & Mrs. George A. SourisIn Memory of Karen Whaley RuggMichael & Georgia FerrettiHarry & Christine LemakisIn Memory of Christine VazopolosMr. & Mrs. George A. SourisThe Sullivan FamilyChristine KronesSocrates DendrinelisBess MillonasIn memory of Estella RuzickaHarry & Christine LemakisIn Memory of George OttGina & John RussonMr. & Mrs. George A. Souris

Continued on Page 13, Column 1



CHURCH SCHOOL NEWS March 2013

The Lenten season begins March 18th. We are on the late schedule this year! I hope you are all taking time during this period to talk to your children about this time and what it means. Try to observe the fast and attend the weekly services. Thanks to all our families who donated for the SOUPER BOWL canned food drive this year. We extended our collection a couple of extra weeks due to some Sundays when we had low attendance due to weather. Once again our collection will be donated to our FOCUS Gateway City food Pantry. FOCUS is a pan-Orthodox community outreach program that emphasizes hands-on help to the homeless and working poor. We will have final numbers and official winners next month. There will be three processions during Lent in which our younger children (grades 3 years old to 4th grade) participate. The first is on March 24th—the Sunday of Orthodoxy. The second is on April 7th which is the Sunday of the Cross. These two processions take place AFTER Communion. The third is on Palm Sunday, April 28th and this takes place DURING the Great Entrance so parents and children must be on time for Liturgy in order to participate. Please mark your calendars from now so that your children can be present for those Sundays.We will also begin registration for Church School 2013-2014 during the Lenten season. Please stop by the Church School office and fill out a registration form or send one in from the Bulletin. The deadline for regular registration will be May 19—which is the last day of Church School for this year.

In Christ’s Service

Jenny Pappas

Harry & Christine LemakisKatherine EllisIn memory of Ruth HartHarry & Christine Lemakis

SCHOLARSHIP FUND

In Memory of Kristina M BamvakaisHelen & Chris Christ

SUNDAY SCHOOL FUND

In Memory of Christos C. ChronopoulosMr. & Mrs. Anthony ZamanIn Memory of Kristina M. BamvakaisDan & Andrea TarlasIn Memory of Christine VazopolosThimios & Mary Zanetos

RESTORATION OF ST. NICHOLAS

In Memory of Virginia DoumourasTed & Beverly DoiasIn Memory of Mary G. CoukoulisKoula Magdalin & FamilyGeorge & Helen AlexandresSam MagdalinosPhillip & Elaine KavanaughLew & Connie CristMr. & Mrs. George A. SourisVirginia O’HareDave & Carol HamptonJohn F. & Beatrice C. BlackDeborah & Phillip GouldBud & Anne StrongAlexandra KamakasIn Memory of Gus & Mary CoukoulisFreda Boyaci

LIBRARY FUND

In Memory of Christine VazopolosPenny Christoffel

PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY

In Memory of Christine Vazopolos Nina BozasBetty JenningsRodney & Elaine Been


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For almost two centuries our celebration of the Feast of the Annunciation as Greek Orthodox Christians has been joined by the commemoration of the struggles for independence by our forbearers in Greece that began in March of 1821. These observances have been and continue to be very important to us, for they represent a deep connection of our Church and our heritage, of faith and life, that offers a unique witness to the world.

When we contemplate and celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation, we are presented with a sacred event in which God revealed His love for us and His divine plan for our restoration to life and communion with Him. At the Annunciation, in an awe-inspiring manner, God announced through the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that He is going to be incarnate and born by her as God and man.

This miraculous event in the history of our faith is one that we celebrate each year. We do this because the Annunciation is both a beginning and a fulfillment. It is the time and place when Christ took upon our humanity in order to redeem us from sin, evil, guilt and death; and for centuries, many had hoped for the day when God would make a new covenant with all of humanity, a covenant of grace and faith. This happened at the Annunciation.

The struggle for independence by the people of Greece was also a beginning and a fulfillment. It was the fulfillment of the hopes of those who had lived and died under oppression, and of the vision of peace and happiness that many wished for their children and descendants. It was also the beginning of a new era, a renewal of a nation and a people. Through the struggle came the opportunity to rebuild and restore their communities and their lives, and to affirm openly and freely their heritage as Hellenes and Orthodox Christians.

The relationship of these two observances on this day gives cause to commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation and Greek Independence Day in an appropriate way. Our priority is our worship of God and our expressions of gratitude and praise for what He has revealed and for His great work of salvation for us through Christ. We give thanks to Him, and we venerate the blessed Theotokos for her commitment to God’s will. We celebrate our creation in the image of God, which resulted in the creation of a humanity that has been honored and sanctified by Christ so that through faith our fellowship with God can be restored.

We are also inspired by the understanding of freedom and human dignity, which is revealed to us by God, and in remembrance, we honor the many who have sacrificed so that we might have a beautiful heritage of freedom and faith. It is this heritage that we celebrate on this day. We commemorate the struggles and independence of our ancestors and of all free peoples. We also affirm that our understanding of this freedom and the source of the highest qualities of our humanity are found in God. With this witness of faith and truth, may we continue to offer to the world the fulfillment we find in Him and the beginning of an eternity in His presence filled with absolute freedom, ineffable joy and abundant life.

With paternal love in Him,

(Signed) ✝Archbishop Demetrios

✝DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America

OUR FAITH



HELLENIC CULTURE CAMP The 19th annual Hellenic Culture Camp for Grades 2-8 will be held from July 22 to July 26. The camp will be held at the St. Nicholas Family Life Center on South Highway 40 Drive, just east of Mason Road. The camp combines classes in Greek heritage and culture along with arts and crafts, water slide, soccer, and other sports activities. It is an opportunity for all children of Greek heritage to form a lasting fellowship with one another. Vetta Sports will again sponsor the camp and the fee will be $75. If you would like to volunteer to participate with a project, please call Johanna Spanos, 314 966 5176. Donations for the Greek Lunch and arts and crafts supplies are welcome.

AHEPA SCHOLARSHIPSThe St. Louis AHEPA Chapter 53 Scholarship Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2013 scholarship.

Preference is given to graduating high school seniors. For an application please e-mail

[email protected] or call Basil Pappas at 314-843-8677.

E-mail is preferred. Please note the completed package must be

returned by April 15.

RESTORATION OF ICONS IN THE CHURCHThe First Sunday Of The Fast:

The Sunday of OrthodoxyFor more than one hundred years the Church of Christ was troubled by the persecution of the iconoclasts of evil belief, beginning in the reign of Leo the Isurian (714-741) and ending in the reign of Theophilus (829-842). After Theophilus’ death, his widow, the Empress Theodora (celebrated on February 11), together with the Patriarch Methodius (celebrated on June 14), established Orthodoxy anew.

This ever memorable queen venerated the icon of the Mother God in the presence of the Patriarch Methodius and the other confessors and righteous men, and openly cried out these holy words: “If anyone does not offer relative worship to the holy icons, not adoring them as though they were gods, but venerating them out of love as images of the archetype, let him be anathema.” Then with common prayer and fasting during the whole first week of the forty-day fast, she asked God’s forgiveness for her husband. After this, on the First Sunday of the Fast, she and her son, Michael the emperor, made a procession with all the clergy and people and restored the holy icons, and again adorned the Church of Christ with them.

This is the holy deed that all we the Orthodox commemorate, and we call this radiant and venerable day the Sunday of Orthodoxy, that is, the triumph of true doctrine over heresy.

—The Great Horologion, Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Boston, Massachusetts, 1997.

This year, on March 24, Sunday of Orthodoxy will be celebrated at St. Nicholas Church together with our Metropolitan Area Orthodox churches. Vespers Service is at 4:30 p.m. After this beautiful service, a Lenten meal will be provided by Philoptochos along with contributions from all the other churches.

What a beautiful way to begin our journey through Lent!

PAXIMADIAFrom Philoptochos

$40 for 100

Call Becky Tharenos

314-576-7011

The St. Nicholas Book Group will meet Monday, March 4 to discuss Train Dreams by Denis Johnson. In this short novel, Johnson recounts the life of Robert Grainier, an orphan who comes of age in Prohibition-era Idaho, where the American West was not yet tamed. The New York Times called it “a tender, lonesome and riveting story, an American epic writ small.” We will meet at 7 p.m. at the Family Life Center. All are welcome.

The St. NicholasBook Group


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We extend to you, the beloved Faithful of St. Nicholas, the opportunity to share in making our Great Lent a Holy and most beautiful and inspiring event by decorating our Church. Below are items needed during the Holy Season:

Mid-Lent Veneration of the Cross - Jonquils for Sunday of the Cross - donated by Mary VarvaresOrgan rental for Easter Service -Palms for Palm Sunday - Palm Sunday Crosses - donated by Matina CassimatisPalm Sunday Icon Flower Arrangement - Jasmine Plants - 12 Azalea Plants - Heretisme (Friday night) Candles - Levane (incense) - donated by Katherine Ellis in memory of loved onesAltar Candles for Holy Week Services Palm Sunday - Monday - donated by Sophia Chronopoulos and family Tuesday - donated by Sophia Chronopoulos and family Wednesday - donated by Sophia Chronopoulos and family Thursday - donated by Sophia Chronopoulos and family Friday - Saturday - donated by Stephanie Glioumas in memory of her father, George PetersonFlowers for the Icon of the Bridegroom (Nymphios) - Holy Wednesday Service Holy Unction (Q-tips, baggies, cotton balls and olive oil) - donated by Carol PatakasHoly Thursday Icon Flower Arrangement for Divine Liturgy - Holy Thursday Icon Flower Arrangement Service for 12 Passion Gospels - Holy Thursday 12 Gospel Candles - donated by Katherine Siromas RutterHoly Thursday Service Wreath -Holy Thursday Service Candles for Cross - donated by Katherine Siromas RutterGood Friday Sheet for Body of Christ - donated by the family of Mary Rupi in her memoryGood Friday Icon Flower Arrangement for Royal Hours - Good Friday Icon Flower Arrangement The Descent from the Cross - Good Friday Icon Flower Arrangement The Lamentations (Epitahion) - Good Friday Epitaphion Candles - Good Friday Anthonero (Rosewater) - donated by Rosie Hartley in memory of parents, Calliope and AlexanderGood Friday Crucifixion Arrangement - Holy Saturday Icon Flower Arrangement for 1st Divine LiturgyHoly Saturday Resurrection Candles for Priests One candle - donated by Kathrine Sharos in memory of Demetrios and Margaret Sharos Two Candle - donated by Anna P. Siromas in memory of her parents, Efthalia and PashalisHoly Saturday Resurrection Icons -Holy Saturday Floral Cross for Resurrection Service - Holy Saturday Resurrection Banner - Agape Service Icon Flower Arrangement - Easter Eggs - donated by Dino BenosOlive Oil (for votive lights) - donated by Carol Patakas14 Palm Tree Plants - Resurrection Lite Meal Donations

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church4967 Forest Park AvenueSt. Louis, MO 63108-1495

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDST. LOUIS, MO

PERMIT NO. 1029

Please visit us at www.sngoc.org

PHILOPTOCHOS PHILANTHROPY

FOOD FOR THE HUNGRYMARCH

Corned BeefGreen BeansFruit Cocktail

Corn Bread MixPowdered Milk

Dishpan Detergent (Optional)Baby Wipes

Gentle Washing Machine Detergent (optional)

APRILChopped HamIrish Potatoes

SpinachJello or Pears

Powdered Milk - OptionalTooth Paste

Baby/Children’s ShampooHand Sanitizer/Liquid Soap (Optional)

Thanks to Barbara Mavromatis and Susan Winters, Co-chairs!

A special note of gratitude to the wonderful parishioners who have been filling their food bags for the needy year after year. We receive grateful thanks from FOCUS-ST LOUIS and their director and from HAVEN OF GRACE and all the grateful ladies they serve. We don’t always know who you are, but you are doing God’s work by feeding the poor and needy.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Proverbs 19:17

We have received a request for the following items: gently used small adult desks, desk chairs, laptop computers, working television sets and converter boxes (not cable boxes) that are used for older television sets that you are replacing. We continue to need men’s clothing and in particular, casual clothes and men’s shoes and boots.Please let us know if you have gently used furniture and we will contact our resources to see if we can use them for our outreach programs. If you have any questions, please contact

Johanna Spanos (314) 966-5176 or Jeanne Tompras (314) 994-7667

Thank you!

PHILANTHROPY REPORT

Documents

The Purpose Driven Life - St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church · march 2013 volume 17 number 3 st. nicholas monthly bulletin st. nicholas greek orthodox church 4967 forest park avenue