The Promise Jan.-2014

IN MEMORIAM - NICHOLAS J. BOURAS - ARCHON DEPOUTATOS - FOUNDING MEMBER OF HOLY TRINITY - 1920 - 2013

Promise The

HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH WESTFIELD ^ NEW JERSEY January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

HtgocWestfield@htgocnj.org

908-233-8533

holytrinitywestfield.org

Theophany A RENEWAL OF BAPTSIM ■ THE REVEREND PETER DELVIZIS anuary 6 marks the Universal Celebration of Epiphany or Theophany.

It is, after Pascha and Pentecost, the greatest feasts of the Orthodox Church. It is even greater than the feast of the Nativity of Christ. It commemorates the baptism of our Lord by St. John the Baptist in the waters of the Jordan and, more generally, the public manifestation of the incarnate Word to the world.

it accepted us. This baptismal grace was, then, in some way provisional and conditional; it needed us, of our own free choice as we grew up and became conscious, to confi rm the act of our baptism. Epiphany is, above all, the feast of baptism, not only of Jesus’ baptism, but also of our own.

It is a wonderful opportunity for us to renew in spirit the baptism that we received, and to revive the grace which was conferred on us. For the sacramental grace, even if interrupted and suspended by sin, can become alive in us again, if we turn sincerely to God. At this feast of Epiphany, A RENEWAL OF BAPTSIM - Christian baptism has washed and purified let us ask God to wash us again, spiritually in the waters of baptism. Let us. It has abolished original sin in us and made a new creature out of us. us drown the old and sinful creature that we’ve become in the baptismal We were probably infants when we were baptized; baptismal grace was waters, for this mystical death will renew our being. As the people of God then a divine response, not to our personal request, but to the faith of those were freed from the Egyptians by crossing the Red Sea, so too are we set who brought us to baptism and also to the faith of the whole Church when free by entering the waters of baptism in this spiritual and mystic sense. ^

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Wait for the promise of the Father

Dates in the Life of Our Church JANUARY - FEBRUARY

WED

1

Naming of the Lord & Feast Day of St. Basil the Great New Year’s Day

SUN

19

9:00 AM Orthros 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy FRI

3

SAT

4

SUN

5

9:00 AM Royal Hours of the Theophany

TUE

21

9:30 AM Volleyball Practice Paramoni of Holy Theophany 8:15 AM Orthros

No religious educ. classes 6:00 PM Great Vespers of Holy Theophany

THUR

23 SAT

25

7

8:30 AM Orthros

9

SAT

11

MON

13

TUE

14 16

4:00 PM Greek School

2

St. Gregory the Theologian 8:30 AM Orthros

8:15 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy 4:00 PM Greek School Feast day of the Three Hierarchs 8:30 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

8:30 AM Orthros

4:00 PM Greek School SAT

1

SUN

2

Sr. B-ball & V-ball play-offs, Toms River

9:00 AM Jr. Basketball Tournament, Bouras Center Presentation of Jesus into Temple 8:15 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy Souper Bowl Sunday

6:30 PM Jr. Basketball practice 8:00 PM Sr. Basketball practice 4:00 PM Greek School 7:00 PM Philoptochos Board Mtg., room 101

12:00 PM YHT Meeting, Room 101 TUE

4:00 PM Greek School

TUE

4:00 PM Greek School

4

11

Venerable Chains of St. Peter 8:30 AM Orthros 4:00 PM Greek School

FRI

30

Feast Day of St. John the Baptist

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

17

TUE

THUR

10:00 AM TOTS

4:00 PM Greek School

12:00 PM Vasilopita Luncheon

6:30 PM Jr. Basketball practice

7:30 PM Parish Council Meeting THUR

SUN

26

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy w/ Great Blessing of the Waters

4:00 PM Greek School

10:00 AM TOTS

6:00 PM Annual Family Greek Night, Westwood in Garwood

28

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy THUR

4:00 PM Greek School

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Epiphany

8:00 PM Sr. Basketball practice TUE

11:00 AM Trinity Circle 7:00 PM NNJYC, GOYA State Meeting, Bouras Center

12:00 PM YHT Meeting, Room 101

6

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy 12:00 PM Religious Education Teachers’ Meeting

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy w/ Lesser Blessing of the Waters

MON

8:15 AM Orthros

St. Anthony the Great

7:00 PM Philoptochos Board Mtg., Room 101 7:30 PM Parish Council Meeting

THUR

13

SUN

16

10:00 AM TOTS 4:00 PM Greek School 8:15 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

8:30 AM Orthros

11:30 AM Trinity Circle Cake Sale

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

12:00 PM Godparent/Godchild Communion

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

In Memoriam

NICHOLAS J. BOURAS

Message of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on the passing of Archon Depoutatos Nicholas J. Bouras “If a man be endowed with a generous mind, this is the best kind of nobility.” (Plato) “The righteous shall live by faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4, Romans 1:17) rom our Patriarchal and Primatial Throne, we have learned most grievously of the passing into eternal habitations of the ever-blessed servant of God, Nicholas J. Bouras, Archon Depoutatos of our Great Church of Christ.

We address the plentitude of the Church: the Mother Church throughout the oikoumene, our beloved brother His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey, the Most Reverend Metropolitans and Bishops, the clergy and faithful of the Holy Trinity Parish in Westfield, New Jersey that Archon Nicholas served for so many decades with faithful and constant stewardship, the Order of Saint Andrew that he served as Vice-Commander, and indeed his beloved relations and countless friends.

The falling asleep in the Lord of Archon Nicholas is a heavy loss for the Holy Archdiocese of America, but for the Ecumenical Patriarchate worldwide.

His advanced years yield no lasting comfort in the face of the loss of his extraordinary life that was lived so well and so long. A mighty pillar has been withdrawn -- not fallen, for we are all called to pass beyond this world. But he was an unshakeable pillar upon whom all of you have leaned for generations to provide wise counsel, stability, constancy, and a generosity rarely found in the world today.

Indeed, it was Archon Nicholas’ generosity unfeigned and pure - that brought to him and to you a noble presence, a presence that guided not only his beloved parish of the Holy Trinity, but also the Order of Saint Andrew and the whole Archdiocese with sage wisdom, unimpeachable understanding, and a living faith. These spiritual gifts (cf. I Corinthians 12) were part and parcel of his daily life, which he lived responsibly, fully, and righteously.

It has been less than a decade since the Order of Saint Andrew bestowed on its most noble and distinguished son the Human Rights Award named for our ever-memorable predecessor on the Throne of Saint Chrysostom, the late Patriarch Athenagoras. As so many of you know, Archon Nicholas was truly reluctant to accept this high honor. His was both a natural and grace-fi lled humility that always sought the advancement of the cause, not the praise of any individual.

He assiduously avoided the light of acclaim and admiration; rather he sought to shine the light of love, truth, and justice to illuminate the world around him.

His successes in life are far too numerous to recount with a mere listing. His undying love for his beloved wife, Anna, his heroism in the Second World War, his genius at industry, his generosity and sensitivity with his co-workers, his steadfastness and faithfulness in all Church affairs, and as we know here at the Phanar, his utter and complete

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devotion to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. In all his endeavors, the strength of the steel which endowed him and allowed him to be so wonderfully generous to others was manifest in his strength of character.

Of special love and interest for him in the past few years was the Church of his heavenly namesake, which was destroyed on the fateful day of September 11, 2001. He was the first to contribute in a truly magnanimous way to the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church at Ground Zero.

We pray and expect that a fitting tribute to Archon Nicholas be suitably readied in the new church structure. Such a merciful and giving presence can never be forgotten!

For Archon Nicholas was not unlike his heavenly patron, the Wonderworker of Myra who hailed from the regions of our Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The generous and noble mind of Saint Nicholas of Myra was somehow mystically imbued into Archon Nicholas J. Bouras. It was as if the spirit that flowed from these ancient lands of our Ecumenical Throne transcended time and space to find a new home in the heart of Archon Nicholas. And in his noble heart the spirit of Saint Nicholas, that “Canon of faith and Exemplar of humbleness” found a space large to dwell, for Archon Nicholas conducted his life in the way of righteousness, and the Lord made his heart spacious (cf. Psalm 118:32).

Indeed, dear and beloved children in the Lord: Archon Nicholas lived as a one who knew the secret to a happy and fulfi lling life. He was righteous in his ways, generous in his heart, faithful in his soul, and noble in his spirit. His passing from us and from this world to the fullness of God and the world to come is a most worthy passage, and his attainment of rest the sure and certain outcome of his life.

As he is rightly and most befittingly mourned as one so dearly loved and esteemed, let us also celebrate the his noble accomplishments - the chief of which was his generous mind. His achievements will last well beyond our memory and the girders and structures created by his inventiveness and industry.

Indeed, as the Spirit bears witness: ‘His accomplishments shall accompany him to his rest,’ (cf. Revelation 14:13).

May the memory of Nicholas J. Bouras, Archon Depoutatos of the Holy Mother and Great Church of Christ be eternal.

Amen. So be it!

At the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Christmas 2013 Your fervent supplicant before God, ♰Bartholomew Archbishop of Constantinople-New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch ^

Photos by D. Panagos The Promise ^ January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

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Concerning Holyy Communion PART TWO

■ THE REVEREND PETER DELVIZIS Last month a series entitled “Concerning Holy Communion” began. This month the article continues introducing fasting, reconciliation and prayer as essential tools in preparing to receive Holy Communion.

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aving introduced this topic on how an Orthodox Christian is to prepare to receive Holy Communion, it was stated in the last issue that an Orthodox Christian is expected to follow the Sacred Canons and Holy Traditions concerning the reception of Holy Communion.

The fi rst and most simple way that the Canons speak of is to follow a complete fast the day of receiving. In other words, nothing is to be taken by the mouth the morning of receiving Holy Communion. No meal is to be eaten. While pastoral exceptions are given to those who must take medication and to infants, this ancient Tradition of the complete fast cannot be broken by anyone else.

This is the strictest and universally followed rule Canon.

Also of critical importance with any preparation in receiving Holy Communion is to make sure that you have reconciled yourself with God and neighbor. The Lord teaches us that, If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. – Matthew 5:23-24.

To be at peace with others is a requirement for receiving the

Eucharist. The Kiss of Peace which is a liturgical act that is exchanged by the clergy during the Divine Liturgy is a sign of reconciliation and forgiveness.

The faithful must also experience reconciliation as a way to offer the Holy Gifts at the altar. There can be no animosity between yourself and another if you are to receive the Eucharist. Pride, greed, lust, envy, anger are from the devil and these things cause enmity and schism between brothers. Holy Communion is not compatible with these things since Holy Communion seeks to unite one to another and all with God. Without sharing the unity and mutual love as a spiritual family the faithful cannot ‘with one mind’ confess the Triune God. The October issue of The Promise also included prayers that are to be read before receiving communion.

This month’s issue includes the prayers after receiving communion.

Prayer is essential with preparation because it is through prayer that we begin to commune with God. The following point cannot be emphasized enough. The highest and most creative form of prayer is found during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. When the Church is in solemn prayer we are assured that God will respond by sending down to us His Holy Spirit. Once again we offer to You this spiritual and bloodless worship, and we ask, pray and supplicate; send down Your Holy Spirit UPON US and upon

these gifts we offer to you. – Prayer of Consecration, The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.

Full participation in the Eucharistic celebration means to be present from the beginning of the Divine Liturgy until the dismissal while also communing from the Holy Chalice.

It is during the Divine Liturgy that we experience and witness the presence of God. I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be given to them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them. – Matthew 18:19-20. It can be considered rather offensive for an Orthodox Christian to ignore the Lord’s presence both by arriving late for the liturgy, after the Lord has manifested Himself to the congregation, and by abstaining from Holy Communion which is His life-giving Body and Blood that was sacrificed upon the Cross and shed for your salvation. If Scripture is searched, you will fi nd that the one person who was not present for

the entire first Eucharistic Banquet was Judas the Betrayer. Judas is not a model of faith by any means.

Each of us at our baptism was given the name of a saint. This “friend of God” should be your role model of piety and the one who shows you Christ. As your patron saint has already consecrated his life to Christ and delights in His presence, so too should you allow him to bring you into closer union with Christ by fi nding delight in being in His House.

It has been said that fervent love fi nds a way for lovers to unite. You are called to express faithful zeal and become a witness of God’s blessings that have been given to you. Through prayer you begin to commune with God and are united in His love. Through the prayer of the congregation you enter into His heavenly dominion and see before you God manifested. By receiving Holy Communion, you are united to Christ and make provision for eternal life. ^

The Venerable Chains of St. Peter

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erod Agrippa, the grandson of Herod the Great and king of the Jews, grew wroth against the Church of Christ, and slew James, the brother of John the Evangelist.

Seeing that this pleased the Jews, he took Peter also into custody and locked him up in prison, intending to keep him there until after the feast of the Passover, so that he could win the favour of the people by presenting him to them as a victim. But the Apostle was saved when he was miraculously set free by an Angel (Acts 12:1-19). The Chains wherewith the Apostle was

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bound received from his most sacred body the grace of sanctification and healing, which is bestowed upon the faithful who draw nigh with faith.

That such sacred treasures work wonders and many healings is witnessed by the divine Scripture, where it speaks concerning Paul, saying that the Christians in Ephesus had such reverence for him, that his handkerchiefs and aprons, taken up with much reverence, healed the sick of their maladies: “So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the

evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19:12). But not only the Apostles’ clothing (which certainly touched the bodies of the sick), but even their shadow alone performed healings.

On beholding this, people put their sick on stretchers and beds and brought them out into the streets that, when Peter passed by, his shadow “might overshadow some of them”(Acts 5:15). From this the Orthodox Catholic Church has learned to show reverence and piety not only to the relics of their bodies, but also in the clothing of God’s Saints. ^

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

Religious Freedom

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ith the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate held its second International Conference on Religious Freedom in Berlin, Germany from December 4-5.

Three members of Holy Trinity, Ted Bozonelis, James Fountas and Dr. William Antholis (currently with the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C.), attended this conference.

The conference was organized and hosted by the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in America in cooperation with the Patriarchal Liaison Office of the Orthodox Church to the European Union.

Members of minority communities, human rights lawyers and advocates, diplomats, religious leaders, scholars, politicians and journalists came together to see how the walls of intolerance and misunderstanding can tumble down, and a new future

His All Holines Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew with Dr. Limberakis, Archon’s National Commander (l.) and Ted Bozonelis, Regional Comander (r.)

for all people of goodwill can begin.

Ted Bozonelis is a regional commander of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. He is a member of the Order’s Legal Committee and chairman of the Order’s Patriarchal Properties Committee, which assists His All Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, on legal issues for the return of confiscated properties and developing a legal status and standing for the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Turkey (Constantinople).

Dr. William Antholis is managing director at the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. where he works to set Brookings’ strategic direction and manage its policy research. From 1995 until 1999, he served at the White House and U.S. Department of State.

For more information on this conference visit: www.conference.archons.org or visit the main site at: www.archons.org ^

St. John the Baptist THE FORERUNNER

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n the next day after the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Holy Church glorifies the Forerunner and Baptist John (about him see Mt. 3:1-16; 11:1-19; 14:1-12; Mk. 1:2-8; 6:14-29; Lk. 1:5-25,3980; 3:1-20; 7:18-35; 9:7-9; Jn. 1:1934; 3:22-26), as such a man, who, having been included himself in line with holy prophets, foretold about the Savior of the world, having preceding the manifestation of the Son of God in the flesh, and who was worthy to baptize the Lord in the Jordan.

The Holy Church glorifies him, as “the angel, the apostle, the martyr, the prophet, the chandler, the friend of Christ, the seal of the prophets, the mediator of the old and new grace, in birth most honorable, and the voice of the Word of light”. In the words of the Blessed Augustine, “he surpasses all, he has the advantage before all; everyone who is born from a woman only, is lower than John”. Related to the Lord through his mother, the son of the

priest Zechariah and Elizabeth, the Forerunner of the Lord anticipated the birth of the Lord by six months.

The Angel Gabriel foretold his birth to his father Zechariah in the temple. And to the god-fearing couple, who up to advanced old age were deprived of the consolation of having children, is born the son of consolation, who was petitioned by their prayers, the foreteller of higher things, who was fi lled “with the All Holy Spirit while yet in the womb”, whom “his mother carries inside and who leaps for joy rejoicing in the beautiful fruit of the Virgin”, who was announced.

Saved, by God’s mercy, from the death that overtook thousands

of children in Bethlehem and its vicinity, St. John grew up in the wild and barren desert, preparing himself for great service by a strict way of life, by fasting, by prayers and the awesome reflection about the fate of the people of God. He remained as a desert dweller until that time when the Lord called him for the general preaching to the Judaic people. Obeying this calling, St. John, about 30 years old, appeared on the shores of the Jordan, as the enlightened “glory of the preexisting benefactor”, “the greatest of all prophets” and “the truest preacher”, who through his preaching prepared the people to accept the long awaited Savior, the Messiah, that by the

strength of his service will present Him to the prepared people.

As expressed in the church hymns, St. John was the morning light, “the star”, which by its brightness surpassed the light of all the other stars and foretold the dawn of the thankful day, when Christ shines as the spiritual “Sun” (Mal. 4:2).

Having baptized the sinless Lamb of God among all those sinners who came to him, St. John fi nished his service as if this act sealed all of it. He died as a martyr. As a preacher of penance, he strictly and fearlessly disclosed the vices of the people, and all honored and respected him as a prophet.

King Herod married Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, who was still living. St. John “with conviction” accused the king as “the lawless one”, and for it he was put in prison and then beheaded by the sword at the request of Herodias. ^

The Promise ^ January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

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Parish Council What is a Parish Council?

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Parish Council is the administrative body of a Church community elected by its stewards for the purpose of working together with the Parish Priest or Proistamenos in fulfi lling the mission and goals of that particular community.

Both clergy and laity are the “People of God,” who seek by the grace of the Holy Spirit to fulfi l the mission entrusted to them to live and proclaim the Holy Gospel and the Holy Tradition of the Orthodox Church.

Historically, clergy and laity have worked together in dealing with matters of the Church’s life. The Parish Council is an example of the synergy of clergy and laity; it is a vehicle for implementing the ongoing mission of the Church and planning the necessary strategies, policies, procedures, and activities that will enable the Parish to move forward in accomplishing God’s work.

The member of the Parish Council, it is important to remember, has been elected to serve a special ministry which requires total love, loyalty, and dedication to Christ and His Church.

Being an official representative of the Church the member is expected to exert every effort to exemplify its sacred character and spirit.

Upon election to this trusted office, the member assumes three basic obligations which will help guide the Parish Council’s ministry: 1. To understand, live by, and uphold the

tenets, teachings, and traditions of the Greek Orthodox Church; 2. To understand and abide by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Regulations as set forth by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America through the Clergy-Laity Congresses.

3. To live by and uphold your oath of office by utilizing your God-given time, talents, and treasures for the spiritual progress and advancement of the parish.

Christ-CenteredServant Leadership Parish Council members serve as role models for parishioners and must take their ministry very seriously. They should lead by example by attending Church and parish events, and regularly participating in the sacramental life of the Church. By doing so, they will have a powerful effect on the overall life of the community. If Parish Council members treat everyone with love and respect, as Christ loves us, then parishioners will do likewise.

The Council members must practice servant leadership by identifying and examining the ministry needs of the parishioners and taking the necessary steps to meet those needs, whether through the improvement and expansion of existing ministries or through the creation of new ones.

Responsibilities and Roles The most important responsibility of the Parish Council is to assist the Parish Priest in the

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS

On December 8, 2013 Parish Council elections were held to fill eleven vacancies on the 23 member Parish Council. Congratulations to the following candidate-elects: Nicholas J. Bouras, Notis Kotsolios, B. Theodore Bozonelis, Agapios Kyritsis, Leon Carayannopoulos, Robert LoAlbo, Theodore Demetriou, John Logus, James C. Fountas, Richard Frigerio, JoAnn Jayson. These individuals will serve one term that includes the years 2014-2015. administration of the ministries of the Parish (GOAA Regulations 29:1A). In all things, Council members should imitate our Lord Jesus Christ, who “came not to be served but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). The entire focus of the Parish Council must be to serve the needs of the faithful and to spread the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

-Excerpts from, Welcome to the Parish Council Printed July 2010 Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. ^

Parish Life SCOUTING

Presentation of Scouting Awards.

Families with honored scouts.

Chi-Rho & St. George Medals.

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Miriam Kotsonis, Addressing Scouts.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

GOYA

FROM THE YHT PRESIDENT ■ BY NIKOLAS KARSOS he GOYA of Holy Trinity hosted a State “Harvest Dance” on October 18, 2013 in the Bouras Center.

It was a great evening of fellowship with 400 GOYANS and chaperones from 14 churches throughout NJ. The GOYANS enjoyed great food including a loukoumades-sundae station, and dancing to both Greek and American music. The Bouras Center was beautifully decorated in the Harvest theme. It was a very successful event for all!

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A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE PARENTS THAT HELPED TO MAKE OUR HARVEST DANCE SUCH A SUCCESS: •Kathy Maglaras: Harvest Dance Lead Advisor •Chairs: Marianne Savorgiannakis & Nina Anastasiou •Set-up: Mike Savorgiannakis •Decorations: Kelly Vitoroulis & Anthe Angiledes •Chaperones & Security: Sandy Boutsikaris & Stephen Xenios •Food Donation: Christodolou Family •Loukoumathis: Michelle Kallinosis & Felicia Karsos •Parent Volunteers: John Apostolou, Jenny Basis, Peter Boutsikaris, Mary Carayannopoulos, Marigo Chantzis, Aida Economides, Chris Economides, Maria Kanaras, John Kanaras, John Karsos, Peter Koniaris, Debbie Martin, Gary Leichtling, John Logus, Donna Panagos, Greg Panagos, Anna Saava, & Athena Xenios.

The Mr. and Miss Goya Pageant took place on Sunday October 13th

at the Pines Manor in Edison, NJ. It was a rewarding experience and an honor to represent our parish. It was an experience that brought us closer to our faith, and one that we will never forget. We want to thank our fellow goyans for choosing us as their representatives. We also want to thank Mrs. Conti, Mrs. Boutsikaris, and Mr. Altmann for all their support with the pageant preparations. Nicole Economides made it to fourth runner-up!

Top - GOYA Affirmation of Office.

Right - Nik Karsos, President, offering remarks on Youth Sunday.

Below - Youth Sunday Thanksgiving Day Luncheon.

FELLOW PARISHIONERS: I would like to start off by congratulating Nicole Boutsikaris, Caroline Maglaras, and Michael Apostolou for the medals they earned at the Bowling Tournament on November 2nd.

On November 1st, The Youth of Holy Trinity held the fi rst Big Brother-Big Sister event of the year. Big BrotherBig Sister was created for YHT members in the 6th to 8th grade. This new program serves two purposes.

The fi rst purpose is to assimilate young YHT members into the culture of GOYA so they will feel comfortable attending future events where all age groups are invited. The second purpose is to show these young members how important Christ is in our lives and how GOYA can act as the bridge between the church and our everyday lives.

For the fi rst Big Brother-Big Sister event the officers and I chose to hold a day of sports activities. By

participating in these sports activities the GOYANs were able to create bonds through teamwork. After all the sporting events were through we broke off into groups and discussed the link between sports teams and the church as team.

The officers and I look to continue hosting these events once every two months. Our hope is that by the time we leave this GOYA we will have left behind the same strong friendships in the younger members that we officers are carrying off with us to college. ^

The Joy/Hope Ministry

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owling and Pizza! What’s not to love? On November 10th, the Joy/Hope Families participated in a fun-fi lled bowling event at Garwood Lanes. The Joy/Hope ministry is open to all children ages 5-12 of Holy Trinity with their families and is a great way to connect with members of our parish.

We have so many fun events planned for fellowship with the children for this school year. The annual Christmas Party on December 6 had over 30 children and very entertaining. Please contact Julie Vagelos (732-595-8589) or Peggy Tsirigotis (240-447-7554) for more information or email us at Joy/HopeHTGOC@yahoo.com.

January TBD - Game and Movie Night

February 21 - Apokriatiko Glendi

March 8 - Laser Tag, Bounce Factory

March 29 - Quilt-a-Thon

April 12 - Palm Making

May 4 - End of Year Swim Party ^

Bowling outing The Promise ^ January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

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Philoptochos KEEPING CHRISTMAS

■ PENNY PEFANIS, PRESIDENT To aid the poor, the aged, the hungry, the needy, and the sick through charitable works performed with discretion, courtesy, and kindness.

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espite all the recent emphasis on the commercial and materialistic aspects of the Christmas holiday, the Light that shines through it all has remained the same for the last two thousand thirteen years. The story of the First Christmas, is as real in the New

Year as it always is. The clear vision of the Holy Birth at Bethlehem has kept constant the spirit of abiding love of Jesus Christ.

In these turbulent times seemingly devoid of spiritual or moral values, it can sometimes seem that the world is on a dangerous course.

But, if we fi x our eyes and our hearts on the Shining Star, it could lead us to a tranquil harbor where our fears and our hopes would be stabilized. In toasting the Newborn of God in the New Year we are embraced and offered new life.

Henry Van Dyke wrote: “It is a good thing to observe Christmas Day. The mere marking of times and seasons, when men agree to stop work and make merry together is a wise and wholesome custom. It helps one to feel the supremacy of common life over the individual life. Are you willing to stoop down and consider the needs and desires of little children; to remember the weakness and loneliness of people who are growing old; to stop asking how much your friends love you and ask yourself

Philoptochos honoring Stephen Gusis as a Friend of Philoptochos for endowing the children of Holy Trinity with educational opportunities by means of scholarships.

whether you love them enough; to bear in mind the things that other people have to bear in their hearts; to make a grave for your ugly thoughts and a garden for your kindly feelings, with the gate open? Are you willing to do these things even for a day? Then you can keep Christmas.

Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world – stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death – and that the blessed life which began in Bethlehem is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love? Then you can keep Christmas.

And if you can keep it for a day, why not always?”

As we open our gifts, sing our carols and toast the New Year, let us offer a prayer to Him for all He has provided us during the departing year. We extend our best wishes to one and all, hoping that each of us will receive the blessings he and she desires and above all, the good health necessary to enjoy them.

We extend our deep appreciation for the gracious and talented efforts of the following that have made the November and December events so warm and gratifying: > Nitsa Bruno: Tribute to Veterans > Sophie Stappas: Soles4Souls – Shoe Collection > Joanne Kallerges: Pastry Packaging for Homebound > Ellen Manos-Athenson: Bloomingdale’s Fashion Show > Marina LoAlbo: Christmas Party Their countless hours of planning, preparing and welcoming us all have lifted our spirits and exemplified their Christian love in all they do.

Please join us for the Vasilopita Celebration in honor of St. Basil on Sunday, January 26, 2014, breaking bread together as the Holy Trinity Family. ^

The Ladies Philoptochos of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Invite you to the

Annual Vasilopita Luncheon & P hiloptochos Stewardship Sunday January 26th, 2014

In the Bouras Center, following the Divine Liturgy. All proceeds to benefit the children of St. Basil’s Academy Reservations may be made until Sunday, January 19, 2014 at the Philoptochos table during the Fellowship Hour or mail your reservation to: “Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church - Attn: Philoptochos Vasilopita 250 Gallows Hill Road - Westfield, NJ 07090-1109” Holy Trinity Vasilopita Luncheon & Philoptochos Stewardship Sunday. Jan. 26th, 2014 Please mark your return envelope: Attn. “V” More information, Nitsa Bruno 973-763-7752 backtotheisland@comcast.net Janet O’Sullivan 908-654-5548 janetzos@comcast.net Chairs

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Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ E-mail: ________________________________________ # of Adults: _______ # Children 16 & younger:_______ Amount Enclosed: Cash $______ Check#______ ADULTS: $1500 - CHILDREN 16 & YOUNGER: $500

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

THE BOOKSTORE

The Holy Trinity Greek School PTO

■ SANDY MOURATOGLOU, CELIA KAPSOMERA & ANDREA BLASI

Cordially invites you to our

W

ho among the family and friends of small children does not relish the thought of seeing their eyes light up at the sight of toys, candies and other goodies on Christmas morning? They know that the carefree joys of childhood will too soon be replaced by the responsibilities of adulthood. And yet, isn’t there something more special than such gifts at Christmas?

Rather than lighting up children’s eyes at the sight of such gifts, perhaps it would be the greatest gift of all to light up their hearts by teaching them about the Light of Christ that He offers to children of all ages!

Of special note for young children at Christmas are two bibles:”The Toddlers Bible”, for children ages two to five, and the Children’s Bible, for children ages 6 and older. Both of these bibles feature large print and magnificent color pictures!

For older “children”, as this month’s feature we chose The Sapphire Elixir, an eloquent novel by F. Voutsakis. The story is the dramatic chronicle of a fictional village of interminable exiles forced from their homes in Anatolia and repatriated to a mountain in Macedonia close to the shores of lake Vegoritis. The author deftly leads his readers through a journey that covers the seminal events of the first three-quarters of the 20th century.

Although most of the inhabitants are transplants who repatriate to Northern Greece after the Treaty of Lausanne, the characters of the novel hail from places as close as Epirus and as far as America.

Each contributes to a richly crafted tapestry of diverse often-combustible personalities infusing drama and intrigue in the harsh life of a village that endures two wars and wrestles with change as a sign of progress or destruction.

A richly textured novel to savor for its language and ideas, The Sapphire Elixir was presented to our community by the Holy Trinity Cultural Committee in April 2013 and was warmly received. A thoughtful gift, especially to those with a connection to that part of the world.

Come to the Book Store to browse all our offerings.

If you don’t see what you want we can order it for you. Please support the Book Store: all profits are donated to our Church. ^

GREEK SCHOOL PTO ■ CHRISTINA WARNICK, PRESIDENT

A

nother academic year has begun for our Greek School. We warmly welcome to our school several new families, as well as a new teacher, Kyria Stavroula Margoupi.

The students celebrated their annual Christmas Program on December 19th in the Bouras Center. Also, The Holy Trinity Greek School PTO cordially invites you to our Annual Family Greek Night at the Westwood in Garwood. Please mark your calendars for Saturday, January 25th.

All are welcome to join us for dinner, dancing and raffled items.

Best wishes to both our faculty and students, new and returning, for a fun and fulfi lling year. Καλή Χρονιά! ^

8 t h Annual Family Greek Night Saturday, January 25, 2014 • 6:00 - 10:00 PM

The Westwood 438 North Avenue, Garwood, NJ

Hors oeuvres, Dinner and Dancing, Beer, Wine and Soda DJ Music

• Adults $60.00 • Teens $40.00• Children $25.00

8th Annual Family Greek Night. Please R.S.V.P. by Jan 15, 2014 Name:______________________________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________ E-mail:___________________________ # of Adults:________________________ # of Teens (12 - 19 yr. old):__________________ # Children (5 - 13 yr. old):______________# Children (under 5 yr. old-FREE): ___________ Amount Enclosed: Cash $_____________________ Check#______________________ Families to be seated with: _______________________________________________

Please make checks payable to : “Holy Trinity Greek School PTO”.

Please contact Maria Tarhanidis (tarhanidis@yahoo.com) with any questions.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Godparent/Godchild Sunday with Communion Breakfast February 16, 2014

Sponsored by Holy Trinity Religious Education

Godchildren are encouraged to invite their Godparents to receive Communion with them and to attend the Breakfast.

Orthros 8:15 AM; Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM Breakfast in the Bouras Center after Sunday School classes Reservations during the Fellowship Hour on Jan. 26th, Feb. 2nd & Feb. 9th.

$12.00 for adults • $6.00 for children under 12

Godparent/Godchild Sunday with Communion Breakfast Name:_____________________________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________ E-mail:___________________________ # of Adults:___________________ # of Children (12 and younger):. old):________________ Amount Enclosed: Cash $_____________________ Check#______________________

The Promise ^ January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

9

T.O.T.S. Trinity Orthodox Toddler Social ■ MELISSA KRIKOS

“M

om, does Jesus receive birthday gifts for his birthday?” a small child asked.

The mother thought and then responded to her child with this-- Jesus receives love.

This gift is given by those who love Him to others in need.

Through angel and mitten tree projects, or giving to local charities, these are all gifts to Jesus. During their Christmas party, Our TOTS children brought their offering to the baby Jesus. The children brought toys, diapers, and baby items to the altar and presented these gifts of love. These items will go to mothers and children in need.

As Christians we are the hands of God. Through our gifts to others in need we are giving back to Him and furthering his kingdom. If we teach our children this from young it will be instilled in them always.

As we delight in the joys of Christmas this year, may we always remember the true gift of love and hope in Jesus Christ. That is the greatest gift of all. ^

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

PARKWAY LIQUORS Greek Wines & Liquors • Greek Wines from different regions.

• Various kinds of Ouzo, Rakhi & Arak.

• Great selection of Liquors & Beer Mon - Sat 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM • Sun. 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM 870 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ 07033

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The Promise ^ January 2014 ^ Volume 38, Issue 1

11

Wait for The

Non Profit Org. US postage PAID Rahway, NJ Permit No. 654

Promise

of the Father

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 250 Gallows Hill Road ^ Westfield, NJ 07090 Change Service Requested

Metropolis of New Jersey

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Office Staff

Contact Information Mailing Address 250 Gallows Hill Rd. Westfield, NJ 07090-1109 Phone 908-233-8533 Fax 908-233-0623 E-mail HtgocWestfield@htgocnj.org Web site holytrinitywestfield.org Presiding Priest Rev. Peter Delvizis

Accountant Diana R. Waltsak Caretaker Ocione Nunes Admin. Assistant E. Joy Daniledes Worship Psaltis Pascalis Kuvalakis Choir Director Kathryn Athanasoulas Organist Phyllis Verenes Head Acolyte Nik Karsos

E-mail FrPeter@htgocnj.org

Schedule of Services

The Promise: Volume 38, Issue 1

Sundays

Weekdays

Orthros

8:15 AM

8:30 AM

Divine Liturgy

9:30 AM

9:30 AM

10 issues published annually.

No subscription fee.

Article deadline - 10th of the preceding month

Ministries Parish Council Philoptochos Religious Education Greek School Youth (GOYA) JOY / HOPE TOTS Bookstore Cultural Greek School PTO Trinity Circle

Agapios Kyritsis Penny Pefanis Jenny Hantzios-Basis Rita Fitanidis Nik Karsos Julie Vagelos & Peggy Tsirigotis Joanne Paras Sandy Mouratoglou Barbara Manos Christina Warnick Antoinette Genakos