June 2019

St. Athanasius the Great Greek Orthodox Church

4 Appleton Street ■ Arlington, MA 02476 ■ 781.646.0705 ■ www.saintathanasius.org ■ email: stathanasiusgoc@gmail.com

Pastoral Message from Archbishop Elpidophoros My Beloved Faithful of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America:

Χριστὀς Ἀνέστη! Christ is Risen! He is truly risen!

Even though I am, as the Apostle Paul once said, “absent in the body” from you, I am very much with you in heart, in mind, and in spirit (cf. I Cor. 5:3). I wanted to take this moment to communicate with you through this marvelous tool of social media, to express how much I desire to embrace all of you as spiritual children, and to manifest to you the love with which God has graced my heart for the precious flock of the Holy Archdiocese of America.

In the coming days and weeks, we will all be learning about one another. I have already received and continue to receive warm greetings and messages of congratulations from across America, and I am heartened by them all. You will be learning about me, but what I want all of you to know most importantly, is that that I am coming to America not only to be your Archbishop, but I am coming to be your spiritual friend and brother, your servant in the Lord, your co-worker in Christ, and your fellow steward of all the gifts of God that have been bestowed upon the Greek Orthodox Faithful of America. Together we will bring the Holy Archdiocese of America to the greater understanding that we are the Body of Christ, and each of us a precious member.

To you and to all our Orthodox Christian Brethren across America, I bring the blessing of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. I am coming to you as your brother in Christ. And, on June 22nd at my Enthronement, I look forward to embracing our ecumenical and interfaith friends as well, and the whole pluralistic American society that values freedom of conscience and religious liberty with such intensity.

Let this be a time of hope and positive expectation for us all. We have much to accomplish together, and by God’s grace and with His strength, we must surely be victorious.

Χριστὀς Ἀνέστη! Ἀληθῶς Ἀνέστη! In the Risen Lord,

Archbishop Elpidophoros of America

SAINT ATHANASIUS THE GREAT GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH

Metropolis of Boston 4 Appleton Street, Arlington, MA 02476

ASKISIS OFFICIAL Publication of St. Athanasius the Great

Greek Orthodox Church Arlington, MA 02476

PARISH COUNCIL OFFICERS Constandinos Ioakimidis .............................. President Peter Stanitsis ................................... 1st Vice President Nicole VanKuilenburg .................... 2nd Vice President S. Nicholas Kriketos .................................... Secretary Fotini Gavrielidis ........................ Associate Secretary Peter Gennis ................................................. Treasurer Michael Terzakis ......................... Associate Treasurer Nikitas Splagounias .................... Associate Treasurer Parish Council Members: ...........................................

Stefanos Bouboulis, Vicki Konstandakis, Alexandros Kyrou, Charlie Pappas, Elias Patoucheas,

Theodore Speros, A. Paul Tsitsopoulos, and Mark Ypsilantis

Great Vespers - Saturday 6:00 p.m. Regular Sunday Worship Schedule

Orthros 8:45 a.m. - Divine Liturgy: 10:00 a.m. SUMMER HOURS BEGIN

Sunday, June 2 Orthros 8:15 a.m. – Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m.

Presiding Priest: Fr. Anthony Evangelatos

St. Athanasius the Great is a parish under the spiritual and ecclesial oversight of His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of the Metropolis of Boston, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, under the jurisdiction of The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.

The St. Athanasius the Great Greek Orthodox Church in Arlington, Massachusetts strives to be the living witness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Our mission as a parish is to “practice hospitality” (Romans 12:13), as St. Paul so exhorts. Thus it is our rich blessing to strive and bring the Light of Christ to all of God’s people, through Orthodox Christian tradition, education and philanthropy. We seek to serve the spiritual needs of our faithful parishioners through the sacramental life of the Church. By means of outreach and faith in God, we continue our growth as a living Church by inviting others into the Orthodox faith through Baptism and/or Chrismation, and educating them through the establishment of our Christian ministries, programs, schools and philanthropic activities.

PARISH MINISTRIES & ORGANIZATIONS

Altar Boys (Acolytes): ................. Fr. Anthony Evangelatos Cantors/Psaltes:……………………Dimitrios Manolakis & …………………………………….Christos Tsavalakoglou Little Halos Director:………..…………..Argyro Nikoletos

Fellowship Hour Ministry:................... Vicki Konstandakis Gardening Ministry: ............................ S. Nicholas Kriketos GOYA President: ..................................... Thanos Arvanitis HOPE & JOY Ministry:…..………….…Betty Dakopoulos P.E.A.C.E. Ministry:…………………….Althea Ioakimidis Philoptochos President……………..………Crystal Iakovou Pine Street Inn Ministry: Michael Terzakis & Randy Fassas Stewardship Ministry:…Peter Gennis & Dimitri Manolakis Sunday School Coordinator:…………….George Makredes Young at Heart Seniors:…………………Katina Ioakimidis

Metropolis of Boston website ...... www.boston.goarch.org Greek Orthodox Archdiocese website ...... www.goarch.org

Fr. Anthony’s Office Hours

Fr. Anthony is generally in the office from 10 am to 3 pm, Tuesday through Thursday, and out of the office on Monday. If he needs to be reached after office hours, please call (401) 662-5259.

CHURCH DIRECTORY Parish Administrative Assistant

Stella Kazantzas

Updated Parish Office Hours Monday - Friday: 9:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Parish Office: (781) 646-0705 FAX: (781) 641-4700

EMAIL: stathanasiusgoc@gmail.com Website: www.saintathanasius.org

Fr. Anthony Email: franthony@saintathanasius.org Fr. Anthony Cell: (401) 662-5259

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From Fr. Anthony Beloved in Christ,

Many of us have heard from time to time about the “Jesus prayer.” Then again, many of us are completely unaware of this theologically rich but simple prayer. So, what is this prayer and how can it be of help to us? Let us explore what the Church has to say about this deeply spiritual prayer. First of all, we should know the text of this prayer before we say another word: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner. What simple words! Who would ever think that such an important prayer could have so few words? In his book The Jesus Prayer, by a Monk of the Eastern Church (St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1995), the author says the following in the introduction to the book: A Romanian writer, N. Crainic, has written that the Jesus Prayer is the ‘heart of Orthodoxy’… More than a private devotion, it borders on the realm of liturgy and even penetrates it. Its implications and possibilities deserve careful attention… The Jesus prayer has been the central prayer of Orthodox monastics throughout the ages, as well as a central prayer for countless of the pious laity. If one were to visit an Orthodox monastery today, one would encounter both monks and nuns continually whispering this holy prayer on their lips as they go about their daily chores. Those monastics who are quite spiritually advanced may not be uttering the prayer at all, but would be praying it from the heart where the name of Jesus resides in all of us. The prayer actually has scriptural roots in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old we have clear indications of the extreme holiness and divine presence surrounding the name of God: You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain. (Exodus 20:7). In the New we have very clear directives regarding the veneration of the name of Jesus: Most assuredly I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (Jn. 16:23-24); There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12); Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Phil 2:9-10). In the book The Jesus Prayer (cited above), the monastic author also says the following: To pronounce the name of Jesus in a holy way is an all-sufficient and surpassing aim for any human life… We are to call to mind Jesus Christ until the name of the Lord penetrates our heart, descends to its very depths… The name of Jesus, once it has become the center of our life, brings everything together. The premise for using the Jesus prayer, therefore, should be clear to us if we truly understand Christ as the very center of our lives. If we live our lives in such a manner, then we should feel the need to call upon Him throughout the day, and even as we lie down to sleep. Many of the Church Fathers speak of “unceasing prayer” and the “prayer of the heart.” The Jesus prayer is precisely that to which they are referring. It is a prayer that we can all offer to God consistently, effortlessly, and straight from the heart. It is a prayer that chases away the Evil One at the time of temptation. It breaks the distraction that we are all subject to during prayer time. It is the prayer par excellence that brings us immediate peace of mind and spirit.

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From Fr. Anthony continued Currently there are more and more pious lay men and women who practice the frequent repetition of the Jesus prayer. We must not mistakenly believe that this prayer, as well as many other pious practices, are meant only for monastics. We that live in the world need to have spiritual weapons at our disposal, if we are at all serious about living the life in Christ. I wish to close with some thoughts of a great spiritual leader and theologian of the Church of Greece, His Eminence the Metropolitan of Nafpaktos, Hierotheos (Vlahos). The following comes from his book, A Night in the Desert of the Holy Mountain, (Birth of the Theotokos Monastery, 1991): It is necessary that we live in Christ, the Word of God, and become Christ and the Word of God by grace. This is achieved when we live in the Church and participate in its holy mysteries, for the ‘Church is manifested in the holy mysteries, not as symbols, but rather…as the Lord said, like the vine branches in the vineyard’ (Nicholas Kavasilas). This is achieved with the invocation of the name of Jesus and the reciting of the Jesus prayer… All of the theology of our holy Orthodox Church is hidden in this small prayer. That is why we should always meditate on the sweetest and most joy-producing name of Jesus… In Christ’s love, +Fr. Anthony Our New Archbishop We join our Metropolis and Archdiocese in welcoming our newly elected Archbishop of America, His Eminence Elpidophoros. Let us all keep him in our prayers as we anticipate his arrival and upcoming enthronement on Saturday, 6/22. Please also make sure to read his first official message to us at the beginning of this issue, and in the Greek section as well. Spiritual Wisdom

The following is taken from excerpts of sermons of St. John Chrysostom, and from The Salvation of Sinners by Monk Agapios, translated and printed by St. Nektarios Monastery, Roscoe, NY, 2014.

(continued from last month) Furthermore, God’s love regulates not only the length and duration of the sorrows, but also their intensity. Athletic instructors do not train all wrestlers identically. They match up weak wrestlers with easy opponents, whereas, they make powerful and courageous wrestlers contend with tough rivals. Similarly, God allows each one of us to be faced with temptations analogous to our strength. As the Apostle Paul states, the temptations we encounter are such that we can handle: “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” (1 Cor. 10:13). Through these various methods, the Lord cures and saves our souls; this is why we must thank Him and glorify Him.

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From Fr. Anthony continued

Keeping all these things in mind, my dear brothers, let us courageously endure the sorrows that find us; because God is allowing them for our own benefit. When we are hit by hardships and calamities, let’s not be distraught; let’s not be faint-hearted; let us not complain and grumble. Rather, let us accept them as heavenly gifts, as divine blessings, and let us thank and praise the Lord. In this manner, we will remain peaceful and content throughout the duration of our brief earthly life, and we will also go on to enjoy the incorrupt goods and riches in the next eternal life, through the grace and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

__________________________________________________

The Holy Scriptures describe that the stones used to build the Temple of Solomon were first hewn and chiseled outside of the Temple. Once the stones had been prepared and carved with utmost attention and diligence, they were then transported to the Temple and set in place gently, without being struck by a hammer or other tool again: “And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought tither; so that there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building.” (3 Kings 6:7). Similarly, it is necessary for the people who will be placed as precious stones within the framework of the divine manor found in Jerusalem above, to be struck here in this present world with the hammer and chisel of discipline and sorrow. This is because in the heavenly manor on high, there is no sorrow, trouble, hunger, thirst, punishment, or pain, as St. John the Evangelist describes in the book of the Revelation (cf. Rev. 21:4). This is why God allows His friends to suffer and face various sorrows here in this present life. Thus, we must be extremely happy when adversities appear; we should receive them as a gift, as a blessing, and as medicine, which our Heavenly Father sends to us with much love.

Our Lord censured the Apostle Peter when he attempted to prevent Him from being apprehended

and led to death: “Put thy sword into the sheath! The cup which My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it?” (Jn. 18:11). If the Lord referred to the imminent ridicules, torments, and death itself (that He would endure for our salvation) as a cup sent from His Fathers, why shouldn’t we repeat the same words, “Shall I not drink it?” and believe that all the sorrows and difficulties that we encounter are a therapeutic cup containing medicine sent to us by the Heavenly Physician with paternal love for our salvation? (to be continued next month) Reflections on Pentecost

The following is taken from The Year of Grace of the Lord, by a Monk of the Eastern Church (St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1992).

‘Behold we now celebrate the feast of Pentecost, the coming of the Spirit, the fulfilment of the promise and also of our hope.’ It is in these terms that the Church, at vespers for Pentecost on the Saturday evening, invites us to enter into the atmosphere of this very great feast celebrated on the seventh Sunday after Easter, which is not inferior to Easter itself…

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From Fr. Anthony continued At matins for Pentecost, which are celebrated on the Saturday evening or Sunday morning, we read a gospel account of one of the appearances of the risen Jesus. In this passage (John 20:19-31), we see a first descent of the Spirit on the disciples: ‘He (Jesus) breathed on them, and saith unto them, receive ye the Holy Ghost…’ This first coming of the Spirit is no less real than on the day of Pentecost. The difference is that, on the day of Pentecost, the Spirit descended on them with ‘power’. There is the same difference in this between the coming of the Holy Spirit on a baptized Christian at the moment when he receives the sacrament of chrismation or confirmation, and that baptism of the Spirit which we shall speak of again, and which certain Christians receive at an advance stage of spiritual life.

At the liturgy, on Sunday morning, instead of an epistle, the account of the events of Pentecost, as they are described in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles (2:1-11), is read. Certain aspects of this account call specially for our attention.

‘And when the day of Pentecost was fully come…’ Pentecost is both a culmination and a start. A new way was opening to the disciples, but they had prepared themselves for it. Somehow, we cannot enter into Pentecost without preparation. We need first to have assimilated the whole spiritual substance that the fifty days between Easter and Pentecost have offered us. Before that, we need to have experienced the risen Christ: the days of the Passion, too, need to have been lived through. In short, one must have matured…

As soon as the liturgy is over, vespers, which have a special structure, begin. During this service, the congregation, kneeling, sings with solemnity the troparion ‘Heavenly King, Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, thou who are everywhere present and fillest all things…’ We know that this troparion is said at the start of every liturgy and the majority of services in the Byzantine rite; and it is, if we are not mistaken, the only prayer addressed directly to the Holy Spirit in this rite. On the morning of the Sunday of Pentecost, this prayer is of cardinal importance: singing it marks the moment when the Church concentrates its whole aspiration towards the Spirit, and entreats its coming; at this moment, each believer who is kneeling can, if he truly asks the One who is the supreme ‘gift’, receive in his heart the renewal of Pentecostal grace, and the descent of the dove.

While the congregation kneels, the priest reads seven long prayers: two of them are addressed to God, without distinction between the three divine Persons; two are addressed to the Father, and three to the Son. At first glance, these may seem a bit diffuse; but an attentive analysis will reveal that in them is contained a summary of Orthodox doctrine. They recapitulate the whole divine economy of salvation; they indicate all that God has done for men since the creation, and they earnestly entreat the gifts of which we have need… Fast of the Holy Apostles Since the date of Pascha was fairly late, the annual Fast of the Apostles is almost non-existent this year. The fast always begins the day after the Sunday of All Saints, which this year falls on 6/24, the Nativity of St. John the Forerunner, and ends on 6/28. Therefore the Apostles Fast will only last five days this year.

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From Fr. Anthony continued On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday we fast from all animal products, but are permitted to eat fish, shellfish, olive oil, and to partake of wine (all alcoholic beverages). Wednesday and Friday are strict fast days when no fish, olive oil or wine is permitted. Let us honor the Holy Apostles of our Lord by upholding this short fast period. May the Holy Apostles pray for all of us! Parish News In Appreciation On Saturday, 5/11, we proudly hosted the Metropolis Oratorical Festival, the first time a parish has hosted this event. A sincere thank you goes to Nicholas Kriketos, the chairman of the event, who was assisted by both Parish Council and Philoptochos members. The festival was attended by His Eminence and local clergy, along with 29 speakers, their families and festival judges, totaling to about 150 persons. Our guests were sincerely thankful and appreciative of our efforts. May it be a blessing to all those involved with this event.

Annual Greek Festival This current issue of our monthly bulletin is going to print while the festival is still in progress. Let us take this opportunity to acknowledge all the hard work of our festival co-chairs, Parish Council members, Philoptochos members, Goyans, and the many other volunteers who helped with food preparation, set-up, and many hours of volunteering during the festival. We also wish to thank our many donors and sponsors, whose generosity has helped us immensely. May God grant us another successful festival this year!

Baptisms 5/25 – Jack Anthony Adams, son of Kevin and Alexa Adams, who was given the name Antonios. His sponsors were Alannah Mullen and Trent Mullen. 5/25 – Zacharias Korfias, son of John and Monique Korfias. His sponsor was Katerina Korfias. 5/26 – Peter Michael Evangelinos, son of Devin and Carrie Evangelinos, who was given the name Panayiotis. His sponsor was Melina Hill.

Donations Holy Chrism vessel (used for Holy Chrismation) – Christine Christopher in memory of her brother James Demopoulos

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2019 Laity Recipients

We are pleased to announce that this year’s laity award recipient for our parish is Katherine Kriketos, who will be honored along with her late husband, Nicholas, posthumously.

Katherine D. Kriketos and Her Beloved Husband, the Late Nicholas S. Kriketos

Katherine Kriketos, lovingly referred to as Kay by fellow parishioners at the St. Athanasius the Great Greek Orthodox parish in Arlington, MA, has been a dedicated steward of her parish since 1965, working happily and tireless alongside her husband Nicholas “Nick” S. Kriketos until his passing in 2000, and since then, with continued love for their parish. Kay and Nick dedicated their lives to the spirit of good stewardship in their parish. Kay started her service to Christ and His church as a child at the Annunciation Cathedral in Boston, following in the footsteps of her parents, who were also actively involved in many charitable and worthy causes of the parish. Kay’s Sunday School bus rides were full of the laughter and excitement of a vibrant parish, and inspired her to become a Sunday School teacher and member of the Annunciation choir. Nick began his service to Christ and His church at Sts. Constantine and Helen in Cambridge, MA, where he was a faithful altar server who also became a member of his

parish choir. After his family relocated to the Annunciation Cathedral in Boston, Nick met the love of his life in the choir loft, where singing the angelic hymns of the Divine Liturgy led Nick and Kay to the joy of marriage at the Annunciation Cathedral. Settling in the Town of Arlington, Nick and Kay joined the Saint Athanasius the Great parish during the year of its inception in 1964. It is here where Kay and Nick continued their service to Christ and His Church, with their energetic, exemplary involvement in the ministries of the parish. Kay became involved in the St. Barbara's Philoptochos Society, where she has led over the years countless workshops and bake sales, donating supplies and goods, sharing her time, talents, and kindness with all those around her. As both leader and active servant in the Philoptochos, Kay has held the Office of Vice President and several other executive offices in St. Barbara’s. Nick was president of the parish council in 1979, and over the years, also held the office of vice president and other executive office roles. Perhaps his most well-known role at the parish was his volunteerism in the Town of Arlington as an Auxiliary Police Officer, Lieutenant, and, eventually, Captain of the Arlington Auxiliary Police Officers—Nick was instrumental in making the St. Athanasius parish a prominent, active contributor to the Town of Arlington, and thus, in introducing many Arlingtonians to the vitality and love that are the essence of Greek Orthodoxy and a life in the Greek Orthodox Church. Their greatest joy was raising their two children in an active, full life in the Church, teaching them to love Christ through service to their parish. Kay and Nick shared the same love and passion and dedication to Christ, and they raised their family to understand stewardship as a lifetime commitment to service in Christ. Nick and Kay served their parish community side-by side, up until Nick’s passing almost two decades ago. Kay’s unwavering dedication to lay service continues to this day.

It is with great pleasure that we honor Kay and her late husband, Nick, with this year’s Laity Award. Their dedication and service to the Saint Athanasius the Great parish is inspirational, and their commitment offers an example from which future generations can learn to grow in the love of their Orthodox Christian faith.

If you would like to attend the Metropolis Laity Awards banquet on Sunday, June 9, 2019, please contact the church office for reservation information.

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Spiritual Hygiene

The following teen class addressed the

importance, and many times

underestimated value, of ‘constant

contact’ with God:

Suppose you owned a nice sports car;

how often would you wash and wax it?

But what if that was the only

maintenance you performed? How long

do you think it would be before other

issues started to surface like, mechanical problems?

By only caring for a car’s exterior is like our bathing, grooming and dressing nice. But what’s going on

within? Is everything also okay with our inner ‘mechanics’, as well?

Added to that: What if bathing each week was restricted to as many times we prayed; would that be a

good thing? Like with any auto, people need ongoing care for their interior condition too; not merely an

exterior appearance.

So, just as repetitive washings will never get a car’s engine to keep on running well, neither will many

baths, fragrances, fancy clothes or jewelry enable a person to attain meaningful inner spiritual

contentment.

When burdened by stress, worry or feeling down, some have regrettably tried to escape reality, by

resorting to temporary ‘fixes’, like drugs, instead of turning to God for help.

True inner peace comes only through an ongoing relationship with God. How many times will He be hearing from us this week?

(From Teen Class Notes - George Makredes)

Dear Sunday School Students and Parents, Because of the assignment of our new Archbishop Elpidophoros, the annual awarding of promotion and graduation certificates is delayed this year, due to necessary revisions to the certificates by the Archdiocesan Department of Religious Education. The new date is Sunday, June 16, on which we will also acknowledge all high school and college graduates.

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JUNE 2019

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Strict Fast Wine/Oil Allowed Fast Free Fish Allowed

1

Vespers 6 pm

2 Sunday of the Blind Man

Summer Hours begin Orthros 8:15 am

Div. Liturgy 9:30 am

3

4

5 Apodosis of Pascha followed by Great

Vespers of the Ascension, 7 pm

6 The Ascension of Our Lord

Orthros 8:30 am Div. Lit. 9:45 am

Festival Appreciation Dinner 6:30 pm

7

8

Great Vespers 6 pm

9 The Holy Fathers of the 1st Ecumenical

Council Orthros 8:15;Div. Lit. 9:30 am

Memorials: +Homer Ypsilantis 1yr

+Lazaros 1 yr and +Stella 20 yrs Psiakis +Aggeliki Aggelis 1yr

10

11

12

Parish Council 7 pm

13

Great Vespers of St. Methodios at

Metropolis Center, 7 pm

14 Little Halos Graduation

10 am to 12 pm

15 Saturday of Souls Orthros 8:30 am Div. Lit. 9:45 am

Great Vespers 6 pm

16 Holy Pentecost Orthros 8:15 am

Div. Liturgy 9:30 am Fathers Day

Graduation Sunday

17 Feast of the Holy Spirit Orthros 8:30 am Div. Lit. 9:45 am

18 19

20

21

22 Great Vespers 6 pm

23 Feast of

All Saints Orthros 8:15 am Div. Liturgy 9:30 am 30

The Synaxis of the Holy 12 Apostles

Orthros 8:15 am Div. Liturgy 9:30 am

24 Nativity of St.John

the Forerunner Orthros 8:30 am Div. Lit. 9:30 am;

Fast of the Apostles Begins

25

26

Parish Council 7 pm

27

28

29 The Holy Apostles

Peter & Paul Orthros 8:30 am Div. Lit. 9:30 am

Great Vespers 6 pm

Goya Basketball at Ottoson Middle School Every Friday 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Adult Greek Dancing Every Monday 7:00 pm

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Ιουνίου 2019 Κυριακή Δευτέρα Τρίτη Τετάρτη Πέμπτη Παρασκευή Σάββατο

1

Μέγας Εσπερινός 6 μμ

2 Κυριακή του Τυφλού

Όρθροςπμ Θεία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

Αρχίζουν οι

καλοκαιρινές ώρες

3 4 5

Η Απόδοσις του Πάσχα & Μέγας Εσπερινός της

Αναλήψεως 7μμ

6 Η Ανάληψις του Σωτήρος

Όρθρος πμ Θεία Λειτ. 9:45 πμ

Δείπνος Ευγνωμοσύνης

δια το Φεστιβάλ

7

8

Μέγας Εσπερινός 6 μμ

9 Των Αγ. Πατέρων της 1ης Οικ. Συνόδου

Όρθροςπμ Θεία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

Μνημόσυνα + Όμηρος Υψηλάντης 1 χρ και +Λάζαρος 1χρ

& +Στέλλα 20 χρ Ψιακής

+Αγγελική Αγγέλη 1χρ

10 11 12

Κοινοτικό Συμβούλιο 7 μμ

13 Εσπερινός

του Αγ. Μεθοδίου στο Μητροπολιτικό

Κέντρο 7μμ

14 Λίτελ Χέλος

Αποφοίτησης 10 πμ – 12 μμ

15 Ψυχοσάββατο

Όρθρος πμ Θεία Λειτ. 9:45 πμ

Μέγας Εσπερινός

6 μμ

16 Η Αγία Πεντηκοστή

Όρθρος Θ. Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

Εορτή των Πατέρων Ημέρα Αποφοίτησης

17 Του Αγίου Πνεύματος

Όρθροςπμ Θεία Λειτ. 9:45 πμ

18 19

20 21 22

Μέγας Εσπερινός 6 μμ

23 Κυριακή Των Αγίων Πάντων Όρθροςπμ

Θεία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ -----------------------------

30 Ιουίου Η Σύναξις των

Αγ. 12 Αποστόλων Όρθροςπμ

Θεία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

24 Γενέθλιον του Τιμίου Προδρόμου Άρχεται η Νηστεία των Αγ. Αποστόλων

Όρθρος πμ Θιία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

25 26

Κοινοτικό Συμβούλιο

7 μμ

27

28

29 Των Αγ. Αποστόλων Πέτρου & Παύλου

Όρθρος πμ Θιία Λειτ. 9:30 πμ

Μέγας Εσπερινός 6 μμ

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To promote charitable, benevolent and philanthropic outreach to preserve the sanctity of life and

family and to perpetuate and promote our Orthodox faith and traditions

mote our Orthodox faith and traditions.

April 28, 2019

To the Stewards and Friends of Philoptochos,

Last week, as we neared the beginning of Holy Week and the end of our Lenten journey, we learned of the raging inferno in Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. Media reports of devastating destruction quickly

spread, with film of the collapsing spire shown over and over again. And then came the reassuring news that the cathedral structure had been spared and would be restored.

But nothing was more moving or more inspiring than the image of the Cathedral’s altar and illuminated gold Cross. In the midst of smoke and flames, the altar Cross, glistening still with hope and wonder, brought us

peace and comfort, and assured us of the certainty of God’s love, of the sacrifice of His Only Son, and of the promise of rebirth and renewal.

To the Stewards and Friends of Philoptochos, I pray that Pascha will bring Christ’s love, peace and joy to your hearts and your lives.

Χριστός Ανέστη!

Maria Logus, President, National Philoptochos Society

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Philoxenia House Visit

‘Home away from Home! The Philoxenia House

- this Orthodox “home away from home”

continues to offer hospitality to brethren from

throughout Greece and the world, all of whom

come to Boston for medical treatment. The

Philoptochos joined our youth in a visit to the

Philoxenia House. It was our privilege to support

Philoxenia House and visit the guests before

Easter and to offer our donations.

Annual Easter Bake Sale

Our Community continues to leave us speechless

with your continued support of our fundraising

events. This year’s event more successful than

ever. Our deep gratitude for your support and

your donations.

With our Bake Sale behind us, the Philoptochos’

work never ends as we prepare our Parish for Holy

Week. The Holiest time of the year for Greek

Orthodox. We share these beautiful moments

with you all with deep thanks for all your donations

that made this possible!

Easter Preparations

"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I

also received, how that Christ died for our sins

according to the Scriptures; and that He was

buried, and that He rose again the third day

according to the Scriptures; and that He was seen

of Cephas, then of the twelve; after that, He was

seen of above five thousand brethren at once."

1 Cor. 15:3-6

"Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the

Lord..."

Holy Week in the Eastern Orthodox Church

institutes the sanctity of the whole calendar year of

the Church. Its center of commemorations and

inspiration is Easter, wherein the glorified

Resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated. Every

Sunday is dedicated in the Eastern Orthodox

Our Beautiful Altar Ready for Palm Sunday

Church to the Resurrection of the Lord. One

hundred days also are dedicated to Easter, 50

before it for preparation, and another 50 after it

for commemorating the glorification of the Lord.

Easter is considered the "Feast of Feasts."

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"Father, forgive them for they know not

what they do..."

"Come ye and receive light from the unweaning

life, and glorify Christ, who arose from the dead,"

"Christ has Risen from the dead, by death

trampling upon Death, and has bestowed life

upon those in the tombs."

"Take part in this fair and radiant festival. Let no

one be fearful of death, for the death of the Savior

has set us free...

Christ is Risen, Truly He is Risen!

With Easter still visible in our Rear View

Mirror, we hit the deck running with cooking

and baking for our Annual Festival. The first

of many anticipation is building in the Town

of Arlington and Greater Boston

St. Athanasius largest fundraiser of the year,

we invite young and old to join us as we

prepare with laughs, hard work, and family

time! St. Athanasius Family Time

"Do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves..."

High School and College Graduates: Please

call the Church Office and let us know if you

have reached these important milestones in

your life.

Let us Celebrate your achievements on

Sunday June 16, 2019 after Liturgy.

Deadline: June 10,2019

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Thank you! – Ef-hari-sto!

We invite you to the

well-deserved

Greek Festival

Volunteer Appreciation

Dinner

Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.

James Bouboulis Auditorium

4 Appleton Street

Arlington, MA 02476

On behalf of Fr. Anthony, our Festival Committee, the Parish

Council, and all the parishioners, friends, and neighbors who

worked tirelessly to prepare, volunteer their time, and generously

donated towards our 2019 Greek Festival, we thank you for all your

help, love, and support!

Dean Ioakimidis, Parish Council President

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GOYA News Xristos Anesti!

The month of May was a fun

month! To start it off GOYA

participated in the Walk for

Hunger where we donated $100.

On Mother’s day, we passed out

roses before and after church to all

the mothers that were there! The

roses were a great success and

every mother received one. GOYA

also hosted a bake sale that same

day, thank you all who bought a

Greek pastry and donated to us. On top of hosting a bake sale, we are raffling off some cool

baskets after church on June 9th!

Next month we have lots of fun end of year

events coming up! First off we have

Kimball Farms on June 9 after church. On

June 20, we will be going to the beach, and

then on June 22, we will be having a pool

party at Yianni Stefanidis house, thank you

to his family for hosting! Our last event of

the year will be a trip to Six Flags, which

will be on June 25.

Sincerely,

Mia Stanitsas

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We can’t believe the school year is almost over! Despite all the rainy days in May, we managed to go out and observe the changes in the weather, the trees and flowers. In class we planted seeds so we can watch them grow. For Mother’s Day, the children made beautiful cards for their mothers accompanied by a hand crafted candle holder. Furthermore, we learned about good nutrition habits and studied the farm animals.

On Friday May 31, our annual field trip to the Drumlin farm took place where children had fun with farm activities and looking at the animals.

Making carrot prints using real carrots! Planting seeds!

Important dates:

*Friday, June 14th: Last day of school/Graduation program

We are currently accepting applications for the 2019-2020 school year. For more information about the school please contact the Director, Argyro, at

(781) 646-1322 or email at littlehalospreschool@gmail.com

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REMEMBERING OUR VETERANS – EVERY DAY!

OPERATION HOUSEWARMING BASKETS

F O R

H O M E L E S S V E T E R A N S

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston Philoptochos with the overwhelming support and generosity of all Philoptochos chapters and parish communities at large, to date have provided more than 200 “Housewarming Baskets” to veterans transitioning to independent living. Because veteran’s needs are continuous this is an important and on-going ministry.

The items listed below represent the homeless veteran’s needs as identified by the homeless veterans in order to establish their home in the community. Items collected by your chapter/parish should be delivered to the Metropolis for distribution to the veterans (162 Goddard Ave., Brookline Ma. 02445-7414).

HOMELESS VETERANS WISH LIST – ALL NEW- NO USED ITEMS PLEASE Broom/dustpan, mop Inflatable bed with air pump Bucket, toilet brush & holder Bed pillows Shower curtain & shower rings Bed blankets Dishpan dish rack/tray Non-slip (inside) shower mat Twin/full size bed cover Cloth (outside) shower mat Dish cloth/towel Set of twin size bed sheets Flashlight/batteries Set of full size bed sheets All-purpose cleaner Set of plastic dishware & cups (for 4) Dish soap Set of pots & pans Toothpaste Coffee maker Bar soap (pkg of 4) Electric toaster oven Toilet paper (pkg of 4) Cooking utensil container Paper towels (pkg of 4) Liquid hand soap Bath towels/wash cloths Tea kettle Trash container/bags Mattress pads or protectors Small bathroom trash container Gillette razors Laundry detergent Woman’s hygiene items Set of silverware (for 4) Manual can opener Cleaning sponges Set of cooking utensils

NOTE: Monitory contributions or gift cards in lieu of the listed items are also welcome. The funds will be used by the Metropolis Philoptochos to purchase the items listed for the veterans. Please make checks payable to: Metropolis of

Boston Philoptochos. Thank you for your continued support and generosity.

Metropolis of Boston Philoptochos Note: Should you have any questions or need assistance you may contact: Eleni Stamboulidis at 508-807-1828

(estamboulidis@hotmail.com) or Georgia Lagadinos at 617-734-1994 (gmel11@aol.com).((r s Nee

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SAINT ATHANASIUS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH CONFIDENTIAL FAMILY INFORMATION FORM Please complete and return this form to the Church Office

4 Appleton Street, Arlington, MA 02476

Name: Home Telephone:

Address: City: State: Zip:

I am a new steward: My previous parish was?

I would like to receive my monthly bulletin via U.S. mail: or via email:

Member Spouse Children /Age

Name: /

Mobile Tel: /

E‐mail: /

Occupation: /

Work Tel: /

2019 STEWARDSHIP PLEDGE / DONATION

Family Name

I understand it takes approximately $1,000 per active Stewardship family to operate and support the ministries and facility of the St. Athanasius Parish in 2019.

We would like to pledge $ Weekly (approx. $20/week)

We would like to pledge $ Monthly (approximately $85/month)

We would like to pledge $ Yearly

You can also pledge at http://www.saintathanasius.org/stewardship/

Please check those items in which you or a member of your family has some expertise or interest.

Place name or initials of the specific family member after each item checked.

Bible Study Youth Ministry Office Work

Teaching Sunday School Medical/Nurse

Greek School/Little Halos Church Choir Art/Design Services

Visitation of Elderly/Infirm Reader (in liturgy) Legal

Philoptochos Ushering / Welcome Finance

Festival Evangelism Architecture

Outreach to Community New parents Real Estate Management

Soup Kitchen Scouting Electrical

Computer – Hardware/Systems Computer ‐ software Web Design

Youth Work Gardening PR / Marketing

Construction Mechanical / Plumbing Other

Ver. 01-2018 19

Volume Thirty, Number Ten, June 2019

“One Final Thought”

Blessed is the man who endures temptations, for he will

receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to

those who love Him.

(James 1:12)

Please call the Parish Office (781) 646-0705 to be removed from this bulletin mailing.

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