The Promise-SEP2012 by Abel Montoya

Promise The

HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH WESTFIELD ^ NEW JERSEY

September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

HtgocWestfield@htgocnj.org

908-233-8533

holytrinitywestfield.org

Welcome Back

Ecclesiastical New Year

■

THE REVEREND PETER DELVIZIS

he month of September has arrived which means the start of the Ecclesiastical New Year and a full thrust into the many activities here at Holy Trinity.

I wanted to take this moment to encourage the faithful to make an “Ecclesiastical” New Year resolution. A resolution is a commitment to better the self. It is a thought or desire followed by an action to accomplish such intended goal. The term “new year” implies a new beginning or direction. In other words, in a new year, we are determined to find the power, the energy, and the aspiration to leave behind that which keeps us stagnant in order to propel us to achieve our particular objective. An “Ecclesiastical” resolution is such a pledge that will provide spiritual gain. As your parish priest, nothing could be better than a congregation pledging themselves to Christ as did the Panagia and all the Saints who we remember. In September, we begin Sunday School. Religious education, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ, cannot end with or be limited to our children. We have to be role models for them. Accordingly, we have to return to the classroom of religious studies to better ourselves spiritually and to help direct our precious ones to salvation. As adults, our religious education does not, should not, and must not stop after Sunday School. It must always be an objective of ours. If I ask, “What is your most vivid or important memory of childhood Sunday School?” invariably the answer involves a particular teacher. Most of us do not recall a specific lesson or learning experience but we do remember special people who were there every Sunday to express love and concern, and who lived their faith in the presence of the children. This demonstrates the power of a role model. Further, it shows why it is so significantly important for you to be the role model of faith. The parent is the leader of our faith at home; you don the priesthood of faith in the Μικρή Εκκλησία (the small church or church found in the home). So, what is your “Ecclesiastical” New Year resolution going to be? I encourage you to make one.

Pag. 9

What was Christ

Writing on the Ground?

nce, the All-Loving Lord was sitting in front of the temple in Jerusalem, nurturing hungry hearts with His sweet teachings. A multitude gathered round Him [John 8:2]. The Lord spoke to the people about eternal bliss, about the never-ending joy of the righteous in the eternal homeland in the heavens. And the people delighted in His divine words. But something frightening, savage, and cruel occurred. It originated, as even now it often does, from bad and spiritually blind people. What happened before the Lord? A group forcibly brought forth an unfortunate sinful woman, “taken in the act of adultery;” brought her forth with triumphant boasting and crude and deafening cries. Having brought her before Christ, they cried: “Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the Law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but do you say?” [John 8:4-5; Lev. 20:10 and Deut. 22:22]. The case was presented in this way by sinners, who denounced the sins of others and were adept at hiding their own Pag. 5

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Dates in the Life of Our Church September - October Holy Cross in Asbury Park

SUN

16 MON

17 TUE

18 WED

THUR

20 SAT

22 SUN

No Church Services 7:30 PM NNJYC

THUR

4:00 PM Greek School

4:00 PM Greek School 7:30 PM Choir practice

WED

11:00 AM Baptism

7:30 PM Parish Council 10:00 AM TOTS 4:00 PM Greek School

THUR

8:15 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

7:30 PM Choir practice

SAT

9:00 AM EFGOCM Workshop

SUN

8:15 AM Orthros

13 14

4:00 PM Greek School

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy 11:00 AM Rel. Ed. Open House 2:30 PM Baptism

4:00 PM Greek School 7:30 PM Choir Practice

7:30 PM NNJYC

MON

YHT Christ Encounter Weekend

TUE

8:15 AM Orthros

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

THUR

30th Annual Holy Trinity Golf Outing TUE

9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

TUE

28-30 SUN

8:15 AM Orthros 12:00 PM Rel. Ed. Teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Meeting

10:00 AM TOTS

FRI-SUN

10:00 AM Career Day

1:00 PM Baptism TUE

7:30 PM Choir practice

SUN

12:00 PM GOYA Kickoff celebration

SAT

11:00 AM Trinity Circle

4:00 PM Greek School

THUR

4:00 PM Greek School

11:00 AM Trinity Circle

4:00 PM Greek Schoo 4:00 PM Greek School 7:30 PM Choir Practice Art Show

FRI-SUN

19-21 SUN

WED

8:15 AM Orthros 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Sacraments & Rites CHURCHINGS Sun., May 20 - Alexander Izaguirre Son of Christina Roumantis Sun., May 20 - Isabella Maria Daughter of Michael & Stephanie Phillipou Sat., June 2 - Rocco Amadeus Son of Pamela & Pat D. Sun., July 1 - George Joachim Son of Peter & Kerry Pappas

Sun., Aug. 12 - Gianna Daughter of Christopher & Nicole Boscia

Sun., Sept. 9 - Spiros Provel Son of Milton & Ellie Provel

BAPTISMS Sun., May 6 - Gemma Rose Daughter of Alexander & Catherine Anastasiou Sat., June 9 - Kassandra Lorraine Daughter of Andrew & Maria [Romas] Weicker Sun., Aug. 12 - George & James Thomas Twin sons of Frank & Lori Vastano

WEDDINGS Sat., July 7 -Mary Ellen Repousis & Steven Poulakakos Sun., July 15 - Peter & Kerry Pappas Sat., July 21 -Linsey Hyde & Nicholas Minnella Sun., Sept. 2 - Jennifer Freier & Chad Wolf

FUNERALS Fri., May 18 - ^ Stratos Atheneos Fri., July 20 - ^ George Kalousis Tues., July 31 - ^ George E. Andrianos Mon., Aug. 20 - ^ Athena (Nonis) Manos Mon., Aug. 27 - ^ Stefanos Zourzoukis Wed., Aug. 29 - ^ Louis Michael Pavlakos

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

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Farewell to the Holy Trinity Family On Tuesday, July 17 in honor of Fr. Alexander and Presvytera Mary, the Past Presidents of Holy Trinity held a going away dinner in recognition of their love, dedication and ministry to this parish. Father and Presvytera have relocated to Florida to be closer to family. The parish will miss them but they know that the doors of Holy Trinity and the hearts of its congregants are open to them always. In this September issue of The Promise, the sermon delivered by Father Alexander on Sunday, July 22 is reprinted. ■ THE REV. ALEXANDER G. LEONDIS

n Hebrew we read: “No one takes this honor upon himself, but he that is called of God.” (Hebrews 5:4) Fifty-eight years ago, I received a lifechanging calling from Christ to become a priest. Throughout my years 48 years as a priest, I have tried to make Orthodoxy relevant to my generation and future generations. If I had any success, I attribute it all to our Lord Jesus Christ. The priest’s responsibility is to interpret God’s will for his people and direct them toward God’s Kingdom. Biblical humility is not having an inferiority complex, but discerning God’s will and implementing it with boldness. It is knowing according to St. Paul that “we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.” The priest is God’s man before his people and his peoples’ man before God.

St. John Chrysostom wrote: “For if no one can enter into the Kingdom of Heaven except he be regenerated through water and the spirit, and he who does not eat the body of the Lord and drink his blood is excluded from eternal life, and if all these things are accomplished only by means of those holy hands, I mean the hands of the priest, how will anyone without these, be able to escape the fire of hell, or to win those crowns which are reserved for the victorious?” These words place an awesome responsibility on a priest, a responsibility and burden that cannot be carried without inspiration from above. T he greatest a nd most awesome responsibility of the priest is the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. It is at the Liturgy that the Church fulfi lls its purpose and becomes the Body of Christ on earth. It is the priest who presides over the Body, the Church and takes the place of Christ at the Last Supper saying: “take eat this is my body...” and “drink of it all of you this is my blood...” There is no greater honor or dignity, nor any greater feeling of humility and unworthiness before God for a priest to celebrate the Liturgy. The priest’s leadership is revealed in the Liturgy, during which he repeatedly calls himself and the congregation to: “Commit ourselves and on another and our whole life to Christ our God.” During my years as your priest, I attempted through Church services, and every activity to encourage you and to commit yourselves and one another to Christ our God. I never planned on leaving Holy Trinity because you were my family in Christ, but

Patriarch Bartholomew asked me personally to serve as Chancellor of the Archdiocese in 1996. Whatever administrative position I held in the Archdiocese or the Diocese of New Jersey, Holy Trinity was always my home parish where I found comfort and love. Actually, I should have been a priest for fifty-two years, but the Lord hid my future wife from me, so that I would do four years of graduate work in Theology. It was four years after my graduation from Holy Cross, that I found and married Mary. Mary became my bride, my love, my friend, my support and my sister in Christ Together we created a Christian home where Christ was always the head and service to him was our first priority. If I had any success as a priest, Mary’s unselfish love, dedication, support and understanding at home played a major role. Out three sons were nurtured in the Faith in our household, where we tried to offer our children the best, positive, Christian atmosphere in our home. During my tenure as pastor of Holy Trinity, together with dedicated Orthodox Christians, we grew in many ways. We built and completed our beautiful Church, which is prayerful, warm and conducive to prayer. Pag. 4

Father Peter and Father Alexander with the Past Presidents of the Parish Council who hosted the dinner. The Promise ^ September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

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Pag.3 FAREWELL TO THE HOLY TRINITY FAMILY

Father Peter and Father Alexander with Presvyteres Victoria and Mary.

Archbishop Iakovos, of blessed memory, conducted our Thiranoixia service in April of 1975 and served the first Liturgy in our new Church. Metropolitan Silas, of blessed memory, consecrated our church to God’s service on November 1, 1980 in a moving ceremony. We also experienced the consecration of ourselves to Christ as individuals and as a parish at that historical ceremony. Our beautiful Church is a gem, which sparkles in multi-colored facets, both spiritually and aesthetically, especially when we gather to celebrate the Eucharist together. [I designed and drew to scale all the wooden structures in the church and narthex and altar table.] We grew in our love for Christ, for each other, for the Orthodox Church, our Diocese, our Archdiocese, our Patriarchate and performed many charitable acts. We became the Body of Christ, which celebrates His presence among us, and functions according to His will. Whatever we did, we did with love, for Christ who guided us and is among us. Our mission statement through the years was and is, “Christ is among us. He is and shall always be.” Holy Trinity has taken its rightful place among the parishes of our Archdiocese.

We have shown leadership in spiritual, philanthropic, religious education and youth activities. We have dedicated churchmen of our parish who serve on the Metropolis Council, the Archdiocesan Council, the Order of St. Andrew and the National Philoptochos. We are truly a loving, caring, Christcentered Family of God and I have been proud to be your father and brother in the Lord over the years. I love you as family and I am humbled by your love for me, and your response to my leadership. Presvytera Mary and I thank you for your love and respect over the years. You have become our family as we have become yours. You are a loving, enthusiastic, progressive, faithful and a devoted congregation. One of the greatest joys we share together is that we have made Orthodoxy a way of life and have made it accessible to young and old alike. Six men have gone to Holy Cross School of Theology from Holy Trinity to study for the priesthood. St. Paul wrote to Timothy: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his

service.” (1 Timothy 1:12) There is no greater joy for me than being a priest. My life is content and full. I can only say: “My cup runneth over.” If I had my life to live over again, I would want it to be the same. I would make the same choices: to have the same loving parents and family, to be a priest, to marry Mary my loving wife, and to have our three beloved sons. I would want to have the same experiences, serve the same parishes and touch the lives of the same people for Christ and to be touched by them. As some of you know, sons are scattered throughout the United States and each excels in his field because of experiencing the love and support of Christ at Holy Trinity. George is president of a medical device company in the Dallas, Texas area. Anthony is a movie director at Dream Works in animated movies. Fr. Mark after serving as the Archdiocesan National Youth Director, last year accepted the pastorate of the St. Mark Church in Boca Raton, Florida. We will be moving to Boca Raton for the next chapter of our lives and become affi liated with the St. Mark Church and be near our son’s family. Mary and I will miss our Holy Trinity Family, this beautiful Church and each of you personally, our Christ-centered congregation, which we formed together and offered to the glory of God. Father Peter, assisted by Father Gregory, will continue and grow the work of Christ and Orthodoxy at Holy Trinity for my years to come. You are fortunate to have Fr. Peter as your spiritual Father in the Lord and teacher. Support him in the awesome responsibility he bears on his shoulders. Fr. Peter, may God grant you many years as pastor of this wonderful Holy Trinity Family. In conclusion I say, I have my eyes set on Christ Jesus, my God and Savior and I will glorify, honor and worship him until my last breath. Christ is among us. ^

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

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Pag.1 WHAT WAS CHRIST WRITING ON THE GROUND? shortcomings. The frightened crowd parted, making way for their elders – the scribes and Pharisees. It would have been appropriate to ask why these elders and guardians of the Law did not stone the sinful woman themselves? Why had they brought her to Jesus? The Law of Moses gave them the right to stone her. No one would have objected. Who protests, in our day, when a death sentence is pronounced over a criminal? They brought her with a premeditated, fiendish plan to catch the Lord in words contradictory to the Law, that they might accuse Him as well. They hoped with a single blow to do away with two lives – that of the guilty woman and that of Christ. “What do you say?” Why did they ask Him, when the Law of Moses was clear? The Evangelist explains their intent in the following words: “This they said, tempting Him that they might have to accuse Him” [John 8:6]. They now had found an opportunity to accomplish their desire. And it was there, before the Temple of Solomon where the tablets of the Commandments had been kept in the Ark of the Covenant, before a great multitude of people, it was there that He, Christ, had to say something contrary to the Law of Moses; then their goal would be attained. They would stone to death both Christ and the sinful woman. Far more eager were they to stone Him than her, just as they would later with even greater zeal ask Pilate to release the bandit Barabbas instead of Christ. All of those present expected that one of two things would happen: either the Lord, in His mercy, would release the sinful woman and thereby violate the Law; or He would uphold the Law, saying: “Do as it is written in the Law,” and thereby break His own commandment of mercy and loving-kindness. In the first instance, He would be condemned to death; and in the second, He would become an object of mockery and derision. When the tempters posed the question: “What do you say?” A deathly silence fell: silence among the crowd which had gathered; silence among the judges of the sinful woman; silence and bated breath in the soul of the accused woman. As the silence fell, the great legislator of morality and human conduct stooped down to the ground, smoothed out the dust with the palm of His hand, and began to write [John 8:6]. What did the Lord write in the dust? The

Evangelist maintains silence concerning this and does not write of it. It was too repulsive and vile to be written in the Book of Joy. However, this has been kept by tradition. The Lord wrote something unexpected and startling for the elders, the accusers of the sinful woman. With His finger He disclosed their secret iniquities. For these, who point-out the sins of others, were experts in concealing their own sins. But it is pointless to try to hide anything from the eyes of One Who sees all.

had prepared for Him a thousand deaths, who desired His death more than everlasting life for themselves. The Lord wanted only to correct them, to make them think of themselves and their own sins. He wanted to remind them that while they carried the burden of their own transgressions, they shouldn’t be strict judges of the transgression of others. This alone did the Lord desire. And when this was done, the dust was again smoothed over, and that which was written disappeared - forever erased.

“M(eshulam) has stolen treasures from the temple,” wrote the Lord’s finger in the dust.

After this our great Lord arose and kindly said to them: “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” [John 8:7]. This was like someone taking away the weapons of his enemies and then saying: “Now, shoot!” But the benevolent Saviour, stooping down again, wrote on the ground [John 8:8]. What did He write this time? Perhaps their other secret transgressions, so that they would not open their closed lips for a long time. As they left, they remained silent.

“A(sher) has committed adultery with his brother’s wife;” “S(halum) has committed perjury;” “E(led) has struck his own father;” “A(marich) has committed sodomy;” “J(oel) has worshipped idols.”

And so one statement after another was written in the dust by the awesome finger of the righteous Judge. And those, to whom these words referred, bending down, read what was written, with inexpressible horror. They trembled from fright, and dared not look one another in the eye. They gave no further thought to the sinful woman. They thought only of themselves and of their own death, which was written in the dust. Not a single tongue was able to move, to pronounce that troublesome and evil question: “What do you say?” The Lord said nothing. That which is so filthy is fit to be written only in fi lthy dust. Another reason why the Lord wrote on the ground is even greater and more wonderful. That which is written in the dust is easily erased and removed. Christ did not want their sins to be made known to everyone. He, the innocent Lamb of God, did not contemplate revenge or death for those who

The square before the Temple was suddenly empty. No one was left except those two whom the elders had sentenced to death – the sinful woman and the Sinless One. The woman was standing, whereas He remained stooped towards the ground. A profound silence reigned. Suddenly the Lord arose again, looked around, and seeing no one but the woman, said to her: “Woman, where are your accusers? Hath no man condemned thee?” The Lord knew that no one had condemned her; but with this question He hoped to give her confidence, so that she would be able to hea r a nd understand better what He would say to her. The woman regained the ability to speak, and she answered: “No man, Lord.” These words were uttered by a pathetic creature, who just before had no hope of ever uttering another word, a creature who most likely was feeling a breath of true joy for the first time in her life. Finally, the good Lord said to the woman: “Neither do I condemn you; go, and sin no more” [John 8:10-11]. When the wolves spare their prey, then, of course, the shepherd does not wish death for his sheep either. When God does not judge this means that He forgives your sin. For this reason, the words “Neither do I condemn you,” means the same as “Your sins are forgiven thee; go, daughter, and sin no more.” ^ ■ BISHOP NIKOLAI OF OKRID

The Promise ^ September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

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Don’t leave your faith at home, take it with you These Olympic Athletes took it with them to London

ur Orthodox faith is something we take with us wherever we go. We don’t compartmentalize our faith, meaning; we should not wear our faith to church only on Sundays and then check it at the door upon exiting. No, our faith is something we are proud to have and to hold at every moment of the day. We take our faith with us to work, to school, to restaurants, to athletic competition etc. Many of our forefathers suffered, even to death, to deliver us our Orthodox faith. Here a re a few scenes from t he 2012 London Summer Olympics of tremendous Orthodox athletes who excel in sports and who are also proud to display their Orthodox faith.

Prior to the Olympics, Ksenia Afanasyeva and her teammates Viktoria Komova and Aliya Mustafina, lit candles at a Russian Orthodox Church on media day (3).

with us today and it helped us a lot. We believe in God, we believe in people who are near us. We will give it all now in the finals.”

THE FERVENT ORTHODOX FAITH OF GREEK OLYMPIANS

Fr. Joseph, an ascetic from Mount Athos of the Hermitage of Saint Minas, is the spiritual father of the female Olympic rower Christina Giazitzidou. His letter is full of encouragement for the Greek athletes.

Good news came to the Greek people when the Men’s Four Sculls Coxless rowing team qualified for the finals of their sport. They ended second in their category with the time 6:02.61 after USA (6:01.72) and before Germany (6:04.61). These four men are Stergios Papachristou, Yiannis Tsillis, Giorgos Tsialas, and Yiannis Christou (4).

Ethiopian athlete (1) Meseret Defar provided one of the most emotional moments of the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games when she crossed the fi nish line in the 5000 meter race to win the gold. She then pulled an icon of the Virgin Mary out from under her jersey, showed it to the cameras and held it up to her face in deep prayer. Before the race Orthodox Christian Defar entrusted herself to God with the sign of the Cross. Afterwards a teary-eyed Defar proudly showed the icon of the Panagia with the Baby Jesus that she carried with her for the entire race.

“Really I am happy for this medal because Greece needs this medal at this time. Greek people need this medal,” he told Reuters. “Everybody knows about the hard times in Greece. I want to say thanks to everybody in Greece who was watching my fight. It would have been good if it was gold but no bad thing that it’s bronze.” W hen Iliadies was asked by Greek reporters to whom he ded icated h is metal, he said: “I dedicate it first to God, then to all the Greeks.” Iliadis went on to say: “I thank God! This metal will go to Mount Athos.”

K senia Dmitrievna Afanasyeva (b. September 13, 1991) is a Russian artistic gymnast. She is the 2011 World Champion on the floor exercise, and represented Russia at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. In the photo (2), K senia Afanasyeva holds an icon of her patron Saint Xenia of St. Petersburg after her performance during the artistic gymnastics women’s floor exercise final at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Tuesday Aug. 7, 2012, in London. Afanasyeva placed the icon near the mat prior to her performance.

I l i a s I l i a d i s ( 5 ) p ut a s id e h i s disappointment at missing out on a judo gold medal at the London Olympics and said he hoped the bronze he won on Wednesday will bring some joy to those suffering in crisis-hit Greece.

After their victory, Stergios Papachristou said: “This is the fi rst time in a heavy category that Greece enters the finals at the Olympic Games. I want to mention Father Joseph of Mount Athos. He sent a letter with wise words, which we had

Two months before winning the bronze medal in London, Ilias visited the Holy Monastery of Vatopaidi on Mount Athos, in order to “receive strength from the Panagia”. He told Pemptousia in an interview that he would give his medal if he won to the Monastery as an offering to the Panagia. In the interview he also speaks of judo, athleticism, his love for Greece, his deep Orthodox faith, and his time living in Georgia. ^

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

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Philoptochos ■ AVI KIRIAKATIS, PRESIDENT

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

eloved Philoptochos sisters in Christ, I greet you with agape, joy and enthusiasm as we begin this ecclesiastical New Year as one united and mighty team. Philoptochos women renew their faith and their relationship with the Lord by exercising commitment to serve those in need. With the Lord’s blessings, Philoptochos enters this year addressing its mission respectfully with agape, demonstrating its faithful and loyal service.

support and generate greater awareness of HCHC. Our beloved Scholi strives to fulfi ll the need of the Orthodox Church to educate each generation of clergy and lay leaders, who share a common experience of learning and faith and who, through their chosen professions, exemplify the values and spirit of Orthodox Christianity. The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society has demonstrated its love and dedication to this institution of higher learning through a strong philanthropic history and remains committed to its successful future. On Sunday, September 11, 2012 Philoptochos will have a tray collection for Hellenic College/Holy Cross Scholarships.

Save-the-date

Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy

ednesday, May 15 , 2013 – Philoptochos Annual Fashion Show – We are delighted this year to have Debbie Vlahakis and Kathy Maglaras Co-Chair our fashion show at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park, main fund raising event for Philoptochos charities.

hiloptochos celebrates its eightieth year as the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America reaffirming its mission and commitment for the future. Philoptochos seeks to enhance and expand its role of assisting those most in need through its ministries and programs. As this crossroad in its history, Philoptochos continues its campaign to establish a permanent home in New York City, the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy, to serve the worthy and noble causes of this important ph i l a nt h r o pic or g a n i z at ion . National Philoptochos announced an initiative to commemorate donations from chapters a nd individuals by offering a leaf towards the “Tree of Life” with the goal that every chapter and/or individual is represented on the tree, which will be displayed prominently in the Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy.

Hellenic College Holy Cross School of Theology

s we celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, it has been the tradition and the commitment of the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, to offer our love and support for the seminarians and students at our beloved Hellenic College and Holy Cross School of Theology. This year Hellenic College Holy Cross School of Theology is celebrating 75 Years of Faith, Education, and Service. In honor of this historic milestone the school has launched a yearlong series of activities designed to commemorate this anniversary. Among them is a 75th Anniversary Commemorative Album which will be compiled to promote and strengthen

May the Blessings of the New Church Year be with all of us!

Calendar of Events September 2012 9/9 Sunday - Tray Collection – Hellenic College Holy Cross Scholarships– Janet O’Sullivan, Maria Stevens 9/11 Tuesday - Board Meeting 7 pm

Room 101 9/13-14 - Thursday, Friday - Rummage - Sale Cynthia Ladas, Chairperson 9/16 Sunday - Holy Cross Asbury Park

October 2012

All Sundays in October - Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Anna Savva, Chairperson 10/10 Wednesday - 7:00 pm - Philoptochos General Meeting “Shoes-4-Souls” 10/24 Wednesday - Lord & Taylor “Shop Smart Do Good”– benefits fashion show Grand Raffle gifts – Penny Pefanis, Chair 10/ 26,27,28 - Friday, Saturday, Sunday - Art Show to benefit HomeFirst Plainfield – Nitsa Bruno, Avi Kiriakatis Co-Chair 10/28 Sunday - 50/50 Raffle Drawing – Marina LoAlbo, Chairperson - Bouras Center 12 pm ^ The Promise ^ September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

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A Guide to Orthodox Church Etiquette AFFIRMATIVE

NEGATIVE

● We do attend Church every Sunday and on feast days; on

● We do NOT attend Church services whenever we please and

time and at the beginning of the Divine Liturgy. We know that arriving late is an affront to God. ● We do enter the Narthex of the church quietly and with reverence. ● We do make the sign of the Cross properly when: we enter the Narthex; when we light a candle and kiss the icons; when we enter the Nave; and before we sit in our pew. ● We do make the sign of the Cross during the Divine Liturgy and at the various services when: the name of the Holy Trinity [Father, Son and Holy Spirit] is invoked; the Virgin Mary and the Saints are mentioned; and whenever the priest makes the sign of the Cross. ● We do make the sign of the Cross before and after the reading of the Holy Gospel. ● We do follow the Divine Liturgy using the liturgy book in the pew book holders and during various services when prayer books are provided. ● We do make the sign of the Cross at the consecration of the Holy Gifts. ● We do make the sign of the Cross when the priest offers Holy Communion to the people. ● We do make the sign of the Cross before and after we have received Holy Communion. ● We do pray, meditate and contemplate about our relationship with Jesus Christ, His Church, His Kingdom and His Teachings during all the service; especially when we follow and read the silent prayers read by the priest. We also read aloud The Creed and the Lord’s Prayers. ● We do kiss the priest’s hand when we receive the antidoron and we are careful to prevent crumbs from falling to the floor.

at any time we desire. ● We do NOT talk, whisper, converse, laugh, chew gum or make any unnecessary and unbecoming motions or gestures in the Narthex and the Nave of the Church. ● We do NOT cross our legs when sitting in the pews, nor do we make the sign of the Cross as one might play a guitar; we do NOT feed infants during Church Service. ● We do NOT enter the Nave of the Church when the Epistle and Gospel are being read; when the Great Entrance takes place; when the congregation is kneeling during the consecration of the Holy Gifts; when the priest is facing the congregation, or when the Nave doors are closed. ● We do NOT take the antidoron from the priest but rather receive it from him; we do NOT receive it with the left hand, but always with the right hand cupped over the left hand so that crumbs of the bread do not fall on the floor. ● We should avoid receiving Holy Communion with lipstick on our lips; we do not keep our hands in our pockets or behind us but at our sides. ● We do NOT make the sign of the Cross before we receive the antidoron from the priest. ● We do NOT leave the Divine Liturgy until it has been completed, nor do we leave before the sermon. ● We do NOT allow children to cry or make noises continuously during the Church Services. ● We should avoid kissing icons with lipstick on our lips. Blotting your lips is recommended. ^

T.O.T.S. Trinity Orthodox Toddler Social A reflection…

hirteen years ago, the Trinity Orthodox Toddler Social or T.O.T.s was formed. This group consisting of toddlers and their parents come together to form special bonds in a church setting. Not only does T.O.T.S. provide a safe, secure environment for young children to explore, experience and expand their horizons with their parent nearby, it provides an opportunity for moms (dads or caregivers) to meet, share and support one another. Most importantly, it provides an atmosphere where very young Orthodox Christians are introduced to God’s house and His loving kindness. There have been many relationships fostered through T.O.T.S. for old and young alike. ‘Toddlers’ from thirteen years ago are still active in the Holy Trinity Family. Their lives have remained interconnected through: Sunday School, Greek School, Joy, Hope, and GOYA.

Relationships built through T.O.T.S. are not limited to only those under four years of age. There are many adults whom have met and become friends, confidants and koumbaroi for each other. T.O.T.S. will begin meeting again on September 19 in the preschool room from 10 AM till 11:30 (though some moms leave early to pick up older siblings from pre-school and kindergarten while others bring their lunch and stay later). We meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Children from 18 months through four years of age are welcome with a parent or caregiver. Please dress for play and paint… be ready for action… bring your own drinks… snack will be provided. Come join us! Most of all, be ready to possibly meet a ‘friend of a lifetime’ as well as spend time with the caring One who is always there for us… for eternity. ^

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

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Pag.1 WELCOME BACK - ECCLESIASTICAL NEW YEAR In making a resolution, know that punctuality is key. I heard on television one night that being late is the greatest insult one can ever give. If you are late for a meeting or some rendezvous, it demonstrates a certain disregard and lack of respect. It purports self-importance and demeans the value of the other. If it’s habitual, it conveys an attitude that, “I just don’t care.” The greatest purpose found in people of faith is to worship together. The greatest act in worship is the celebration of the Eucharist – Christ’s Mystical Supper. Being a participant in this act is to be a participant in the greatest mystery found in the universe. People of faith know this and respond by saying, “How can I ever miss such a profound and life-affecting event.” For them, every moment spent in God’s temple is a new creative experience. Start your resolution with a pledge to respect the faith of our fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers by participating in the entire Divine Liturgy. Make a pledge to arrive at church by 9:30 AM or even earlier since Orthros (the morning service) begins at 8:15 AM. Our forefathers made great sacrifices in preserving and presenting this faith to you. By making this resolution, you accomplish two things with but one act. On the one hand, you respect and become full participants in the Eucharistic celebration receiving the full and multi-faceted

blessings offered through this service. On the other hand, you enter into the most acclaimed center of learning of all – Christ’s Church. No institution of higher learning or book can instruct you more about life and spirituality than the Church. By experiencing, first-hand, and coming into contact with Christ in a peaceful, controlled and unrushed manner, your spiritual eyes will be opened wider and you will become a living role model of faith – fi lled with God’s love. Resolutions are important in that they push the self to reach for a higher and stronger state of being. If we don’t push, if we don’t try to get stronger, then we atrophy. I want to guide you toward this particular reality concerning faith. I want to encourage you to be present at the beginning of the Divine Liturgy so that we may enter into God’s heavenly kingdom united together. When the opening verse of the Divine Liturgy is joyfully proclaimed: “Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.” – we are to be joined, one to another, as if hands were interlocked, and triumphantly march into God’s kingdom as one family so that we might be united to Him and share in His divine glory. Think about your resolution. Energize yourself. Then, just do it. Have a happy New Year! ^

Parish Life

Career Day Program ■ JIM GIANAKIS

he AHEPA has scheduled its second annual Career Day Program at Holy Trinity on Saturday, October 6, 2012 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. This program is designed to more formally guide our youth and young adults in their educational and career paths, and also serves to assist adults in our community who are at a crossroads in their careers. The program will target such issues as the college admissions process, academic and career planning, resume writing, interview skills, job and internship opportunities, mentor relationships, networking, navigating the changing work environment, the

corporate hiring process, allowing your faith to guide your career, and so much more! We encourage members of our youth programs, recent alumni and parents to attend and to reach out to neighboring churches and communities that may benefit from the program. We also encourage members of Holy Trinity to volunteer to be mentors to our youth and young adults. If you are interested in participating in the program, have an opportunity to share and/or have ideas for future presentation topics, please contact Jim Gianakis jim. gianakis@gmail.com, Peter Tarhanides ptarhanides@gmail.com and/or the church office. ^

Bookstore

Come to the Book Store to Understand What $32 Buys!

■ SANDY MOURATOGLOU & ANDREA BLASI

Start the Ecclesiastical New Year with a Pearl of Great Price in value, not cost! A mere $32 buys a magnificent tool to aid your lifelong spiritual journey. Of the multitude of our Lord’s blessings, one of the most beautiful is grace “God’s unlimited, unconditional, uncreated love, freely given to those who do not deserve it.” That is, we have God’s love, no matter what! But how we respond to that love is also important. Other features include: “Introduction to the Orthodox Study

Bible”, page xi, “Overview of the Books of the Bible”, page xv, “Introducing the Orthodox Church”, page xxi, “The Bible: God’s Revelation to Man”, page 1753, “How to Read the Bible”, page 1757, Morning and Evening Prayers, pages 1791 and 1794. The general subject of each section is printed in centered bold type, with references to similar passages below that centered in regular type. Copious notes explain important aspects of the passage, and make references to other passages as applicable. All this for only $32. What a bargain! ^ The Promise ^ September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

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YHT

lease support the Youth of Holy Trinity (YHT) on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012 in the Holy Trinity parking lot on their fall fundraiser. They are raising funds to benefit a local charity and the YHT. Pumpkins will be sold in three different sizes- small, medium, and large- as well as mums for your fall decorating. There will also be refreshments of pumpkin bread loaves for purchase and apple cider for your enjoyment. To facilitate the sale, the YHT will be holding pre-sale opportunities to order in advance at the YHT fellowship hour table:

ROBERT’S RULES WORKSHOP FOR GOYANS This year the advisors of YHT are very excited to be working with the GOYANS and eager for them to be successful during the 2012-2013 year. One of the ways the advisors will be helping the GOYANS reach their goals is by bringing in guest speakers to inspire and teach them.

An important tool for our GOYANS to have is understanding and implementing Robert’s Rules in order to conduct YHT meetings. To better help our GOYANS with this, guest speaker Maria Logus will be donating her time to instruct our GOYANS with Robert’s Rules. Maria Logus, an attorney employed by the New York State Unified Court System for more than 30 years, currently serves as Chief of Staff for the state courts within New York City. Ms. Logus is a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians and has chaired four National Philoptochos Biennial Conventions. Maria Logus was awarded the Medal of St. Andrew by His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos for her service to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America. This workshop will be held on Sunday, Sep. 9th, 2012 at 12:00 and will last one hour. This workshop is open to all GOYANS. If your GOYAN is interested in participating, please contact GOYAN corresponding secretary Andreas Vlahakis at Vlahakis_a@delbarton.org by Wednesday, September 5th, 2012. ^

NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL DIRECTOR NAMED

providing assistance and directing the largest ministry at Holy Trinity.

t the end of last year, Lou Martin, of blessed memory, and Ria Wolff announced their retirement as Directors of Holy Trinity’s Sunday School program. Our parish owes them a great deal for their dedication, love and care directed towards our children and insuring that wonderful teachers fi ll the classrooms.

She has extensive religious education and teaching experience. She attended Fordham University majoring in Economics and while there taking three semesters of religious education. She is employed in the banking industry but also has a certificate of eligibility in elementary education and high school business education.

It is with gladness that Jenny Hantzios Basis is announced as Holy Trinity’s new Sunday School Director. She will continue the work of

She is a person of faith being rooted in our Orthodox faith and we wish her much success and blessings in this new role. ^

Sunday, September 23 , Sunday, September 30, Sunday, October 7 Please stop by the table to place your orders. God bless you and thank you for your support!

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey

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The Promise ^ September 2012 ^ Volume 36, Issue 6

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

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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

Worship Psaltis Pascalis Kuvalakis Choir Director Kathryn Athanasoulas Organist Phyllis Verenes Head Acolyte Christopher Wolff

E-mail FrPeter@htgocnj.org Priest Rev. Gregory Rubis Schedule of Services

The Promise: Volume 36, Issue 6

Sundays

Weekdays

Orthros

8:15 AM

8:30 AM

Divine Liturgy

9:30 AM

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Administrative Assistant Irene Panagakos Accountant Diana R. Waltsak Caretaker Ocione Nunes

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

Ted Demetriou Avi Kiriakatis Jenny Hantzios-Basis Rita Fitanidis Barbara Arbes Stephanie Johns Peggy Tsirgotis Joanne Paras Sandy Mouratoglou Barbara Manos Christina Warnick

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