FEB-MARCH 2012 • Vol. 77 • No. 1273
Encyclical
Humanitarian Effort Under Way for Greek Relief NEW YORK – Archbishop Demetrios of America, on behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod, in an appeal published here, has established a relief fund for the people of Greece who are experiencing very hard circumstances. In order to facilitate donations, the Archdiocese has established a web page www.goarch.org/special/ greekrelief to accept contributions online, through facebook, by an SMS text message and of course by traditional checks. To support the Greek Relief Fund, you may make a donation in any one of the following ways: • Donate Online through JustGive. org.Make a secure online donation through our partner JustGive.org. • Donate via Causes through Facebook - Make a secure online donation through the Facebook cause Relief Fund for the People of Greece • Donate via SMS/Text Message on your Mobile Phone through mGive–Donate $10 by simply texting “GREECE” to 27722. The amount of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill deducted from your prepaid account. Message and Data Rates May Apply. Full Terms: mGive.org/T/Privacy Policy • Traditional Check–Contributions may be sent via check to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075 and earmarked for Relief Fund for the People of Greece All methods listed above allow for your donation to go directly to The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, a U.S. IRS approved 501(c) (3) non profit organization.
$1.00
www.observer.goarch.org • e-mail: observer@goarch.org
Holy and Great Lent To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America
Archbishop’s Appeal for Greece For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink Matthew 25:35 – Judgment Sunday
To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Council of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Day, Afternoon and the Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod of our Holy Archdiocese of America, I am writing to you, the faithful members of our Holy Orthodox Church here in the United States, this heartfelt appeal for our brothers and sisters in Greece. The financial crisis that has rocked Europe and deeply affected Greece has reached proportions where the suffering of innocents and the ordeal of common people cry out for urgent and substantive help. So many of our families have roots in Greece and many of us have relatives and friends who are now experiencing privation unknown in that country since the time of the harsh occupa-
tion of the Second World War. Cognizant of this harsh reality, we must respond by offering real and tangible assistance to our brethren through trusted Church affiliated humanitarian and philanthropic agencies which will directly assist those most in need. Therefore, as the time of Great Lent approaches, when we are called by the Church to a greater consciousness of the needs of our fellow human beings, I hope that every Christian will generously respond to this special appeal by making a donation to the Relief Fund for the People of Greece of the Archdiocese.* With paternal blessing and prayers for you and your beloved families, that this Lenten Season may be even more spiritually rewarding to you because of your love and generosity, I remain, With paternal love in Christ,
† Archbishop DEMETRIOS of America * ALL contributions should be forwarded to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075, earmarked for the Relief Fund for the People of Greece.
Major milestone
ORTHODOX OBSERVER photo
On a narrow street in the Colonial Spanish area of downtown St. Augustine, Fla., the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine –the Avero House of the colonial era– honors the first Greek settlers to arrive in the New World in 1768. The Shrine marked a major milestone on Feb. 3–6 weekend, in conjunction with its feast day. (Coverage on pages 2, 4 and page 15 in the Greek section). Each day, thousands of tourists from around the world pass the Shrine.
Icon of the Parable of the Prodigal Son.
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As we begin this season of Holy and Great Lent, we do so in anticipation of the blessings we will receive as we commune with Christ through the special services, observances, and disciplines of our Orthodox Christian faith. We embark on a journey of faith, with the destination of the joy of Pascha before us, knowing that abundant spiritual treasure awaits if we are committed to intensifying prayer and fasting and service to others in charity. We have begun to prepare our hearts for the impact of Great Lent during the Triodion period and our reflection on repentance and forgiveness. Our resolve to follow the services and disciplines is strong, but we also realize that we face many challenges in navigating the course of the season and realizing the great potential that it has to offer in our relationship with God. In the days ahead, we will have responsibilities and commitments to fulfill. We may have a family that will need our care and provision. Each day we will have tasks to accomplish, work to do, and obligations to meet. In addition, we know that new challenges will arise and pressures will appear that will make the journey difficult. Our resolve to strengthen our faith through Great Lent will be tested. Many things will compete for the attention of our hearts and minds, challenging us to be faithful to our commitment to deeper communion with God. In the midst of daily life and during this sacred and solemn season, we must remind ourselves through prayer and reflection that we do not make this journey alone. The services we attend are beautiful and holy times of worship in the presence of Christ and in the company of our brothers and sisters. The disciplines of fasting and giving are disciplines of grace that connect us to the love of God and allow that love to transform us and be offered through us to others. Thus, our resolve and commitment in Great Lent should be strengthened by knowing that His presence and His grace are always with us. We make this journey in Christ. He is the source of the spiritual power we need to remain focused on the meaning of this season.
u u to page 3
2
A RCHDIOCESE N E WS
FEB–MARCH 2012
To contact the National Ministries Archives 212.570.3517 ncalles@goarch.org Communications 212.774.0244 communications@goarch.org Greek Education 212.774.0233 greekeducation@goarch.org Information Technologies 212.774.0240 theo@goarch.org Inter-Orthodox, Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations 212.570.3593 ecumenical@goarch.org Marriage & Family 845.424.8175 familycare@goarch.org Parish Development 847.825.1432 jminetos@goarch.org Philanthropy 212.774.0283 bishopandonios@goarch.org Public Affairs 212.774.0400 fralex@goarch.org
Members of the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine Board of Trustees.
St. Photios Shrine Trustees Review Progress ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine trustees held their annual board meeting Feb. 4 as part of the Shrine’s 30th Anniversary. Those in attendance included Archbishop Demetrios, chairman and Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, president. Dr. Manuel Tissura, first vice president, conducted the meeting that included several reports of ongoing activities in support
of the Shrine. In her report, Shrine Director Polly Hillier noted that the number of visitors have increased in 2011. St. Augustine received about 1 million tourists last year. The Shrine will host a pan–Orthodox women’s retreat on March 10 and about 50 women are expected to attend. Noted Orthodox author and lecturer Frederica Matthews Green will speak. Anthony Megas offered the facilities
Registry 212.570.3558 frmichael@goarch.org Religious Education 617.850.1218 religioused@goarch.org Stewardship, Outreach & Evangelism 646.519.6160 stewardship@goarch.org Youth and Young Adult Ministries 646.519.6180 youthoffice@goarch.org
NEXT DEADLINE
Deadline for submitting information, articles and photos for consideration in the April 2012 issue: Friday., March 23. Photos should be sent as a large format .jpg attachment (300 dpi min.). E-mail to: jim@goarch.org Regular mail: Editor, Orthodox Observer, 8 E. 79th St., New York, NY 10075.
Airport welcome
Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown accompanies Archbishop Demetrios through the airport terminal shortly after his arrival where he was greeted by a large delegation of Greek Orthodox faithful from Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Daytona Beach. At right is Duval County Sheriff John Rutherford. Archon Nicholas Furris (at left) organized the welcome reception.
Change of Address To submit a change of address: Contact Soula Podaras at 212.774.0235 – e-mail: spodaras@goarch.org – fax: 212.774.0239. Or regular mail to: Orthodox Observer, 8 E. 79th St., New York, NY 10075. Be sure to include old address, new address and name of parish. EDITOR IN CHIEF Jim Golding (Chryssoulis) GREEK SECTION EDITOR Eleftherios Pissalidis
USPS 412340
ISSN 0731–2547
In 2012, published monthly except February–March and July–August by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Editorial and Business Office: 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075 TEL.: (212) 570–3555 FAX (212) 774–0239
ORTHODOX OBSERVER PHOTOS
PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING Eleftherios Pissalidis GRAPHIC ARTIST Abel Montoya ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Soula Podaras BUSINESS MANAGER Marissa P. Costidis
CONTRIBUTING CORRESPONDENT & PHOTOGRAPHER: Nicholas Manginas
Periodicals’ postage paid at New York, NY 10001 and at additional mailing offices. The Orthodox Observer is produced entirely in–house. Past issues can be found on the Internet, at: www.observer.goarch.org • E–mail: observer@goarch.org Articles and advertising do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America which are expressed in official statements so labeled.
Subscription rates are $12 per year. Canada $25. Overseas Air Mail, $55 per year. $1.50 per copy. Subscriptions for the membership of the Greek Orthodox Church in America are paid through their contribution to the Archdiocese. Of this contribution, $5 is forwarded to the Orthodox Observer. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ORTHODOX OBSERVER, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075
and grounds report and discussed the need for kitchen and improved bathroom facilities to accommodate the increase number of visitors and groups making pilgrimages and holding retreats. The building interior recently was painted, exterior touch-up work was done and air conditioner work and various electrical needs were addressed. The Shrine, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, receives strong volunteer support from the neighboring parishes of Holy Trinity Church in St. Augustine, St. John the Divine Church in Jacksonville and St. Demetrios Church in Daytona Beach. The Shrine participates in various programs of the St. Augustine community, including as one of the stops on the monthly “Art Walk” and the St. Augustine House of Worship Tour, which took place Feb. 12. Ms. Hillier also promotes the St. Photios Shrine through presentations at various Archdiocese and Metropolis events, including clergy–laity congresses and Philoptochos gatherings. Other presentations The Rev. Dr. Nicholas Louh, pastor of the Jacksonville church, reported that his parish will host the annual Greek Landing Day celebration at the end of June, which commemorates the landing of the Greek colonists in Florida in 1768. Fr. George Ioannou noted that the Light a Candle Foundation enables the faithful to submit offerings for the lighting of candles and reading of names at paraklesis services held every Friday, once a quarter at the Divine Liturgy and during Lenten services. Promotional and fund-raising activities were discussed through the marketing, Wall of Tribute and Friends of St. Photios programs. George Koukoulis encouraged trustees to “bring the Shrine to their home
u u to page 20
To Contact Us For questions about submitting information/news to the Orthodox Observer: Jim Golding, 212.570.3557, jim@goarch.org. Advertising & Greek section, Lefteris Pissalidis, 212.570.3555, lefteris@goarch.org.
3
A RCHDIOCESE N E WS
FEB–MARCH 2012
Three Hierarchs Day
Encyclical
Feast of the Annunciation Day of Greek Independence To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Dimitris Panagos photo
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Demetrios S. Katos, dean of Hellenic College, delivers the keynote address at the celebration of the Three Hierarchs Day event at the Onassis Cultural Center January 30 in New York. His topic was “Transition to Christianity: The Three Hierarchs and the Adoption of Secular Education and Culture.”
Pascha Service to Air on NBC NEW YORK – The video presentation of “Christ is Risen! The Resurrection Service and Divine Liturgy of Pascha,” a program highlighting Orthodox Christian Pascha, or Easter, will air on NBC affiliates nationwide this April. The program, produced by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and videotaped live at St. Nicholas Church in Flushing, N.Y., highlights the midnight Resurrection Service and the Divine Liturgy. Archbishop Demetrios of America leads a procession of the faithful around the church and outside where, following the reading of the Gospel of the Resurrection, they proclaim the joyous hymn
“Christ is Risen!” The Archdiocese is working with affiliates nationwide, urging them to broadcast the program within their local area. Broadcast information will be posted as soon as it becomes available from affiliates. Additional information will be forthcoming at www.goarch.org/special/ paschatv2012, or contact the Department of Communications if you need assistance.To request airing of the program in your local area, contact the program manager of the nearest NBC affiliate. DVD copies of the program will be available for pre-sale ($20, plus $6 shipping). To pre-purchase, contact the Department of Communications at 212.774.0244 or e-mail: gotel@goarch.org
Encyclical
Holy and Great Lent u u from page 1 He is also our destination. As we begin this journey together, I encourage you to keep your eyes looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Each new day reaffirm your resolve to participate in the services and disciplines of Great Lent as you live in the presence of Christ and experience His love for you. May we also remember that making this journey with Him, through the examination of
the soul, through self-denial and obedience to the will of God, and through the suffering and pain of His Crucifixion, we will be with our Lord in the glorious light and life of His Resurrection. With paternal love in Christ,
† Archbishop DEMETRIOS of America
Feeding the poor in Athens
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, For almost two centuries our celebration of the Feast of the Annunciation as Greek Orthodox Christians has been joined by the commemoration of the struggles for independence by our forbearers in Greece that began in March of 1821. These two observances have been and continue to be very important to us, for they represent a deep connection of our Church and our heritage, of faith and life, that offers a unique witness to the world. When we contemplate and celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation, we are presented with a sacred event in which God revealed His love for us and His divine plan for our restoration to life and communion with Him. At the Annunciation, in an aweinspiring manner, God announced through the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that He is going to be incarnate and born by her as God and man. This miraculous event in the history of our faith is one that we celebrate each year. We do this because the Annunciation is both a beginning and a fulfillment. It is the time and place when Christ took upon our humanity in order to redeem us from sin, evil, guilt and death; and for centuries, many had hoped for the day when God would make a new covenant with all of humanity, a covenant of grace and faith. This happened at the Annunciation. The Feast of the Annunciation is also connected to our commemoration of Greek Independence Day not only because of the historical proximity of the events, but because each presents significant themes that connect our faith and our lives, as well as our identity as Greek Orthodox Christians with our Hellenic legacy and heritage. The struggle for independence by our fathers and mothers was born out of an affirmation of free will and the innate quality of our humanity given to us by God to make choices. This combined with the desire for
freedom and self-determination, inspired the people of Greece to seek an end to centuries of oppression and to reclaim control of their lives and destiny. Further, these same people knew that their commitment to independence would require great sacrifice. However, this was a sacrifice, a willing offering of their lives, for the sake of justice, dignity, and freedom. The struggle for independence by the people of Greece was also a beginning and a fulfillment. It was the fulfillment of the hopes of those who had lived and died under oppression, and of the vision of peace and happiness that many wished for their children and descendants. It was also the beginning of a new era, a renewal of a nation and a people. Through the struggle came the opportunity to rebuild and restore their communities and their lives, and to affirm openly and freely their heritage as Hellenes and Orthodox Christians. The relationship of these two observances on this day gives us cause to commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation and Greek Independence Day in an appropriate way. Our priority is our worship of God and our expressions of gratitude and praise for what He has revealed and for His great work of salvation for us through Christ. We give thanks to Him, and we venerate the blessed Theotokos for her commitment to God’s will. We celebrate our creation in His image, a humanity that has been honored and sanctified by Christ so that through faith our fellowship with God can be restored. We are also inspired by the understanding of freedom and human dignity that is revealed to us by God, and in remembrance, we honor the many who have sacrificed so that we might have a beautiful heritage of freedom and faith. It is this heritage that we celebrate on this day. We commemorate the struggles and independence of our ancestors and of all free peoples. We also affirm that our understanding of this freedom and the source of the highest qualities of our humanity are found in God. With this witness of faith and truth, may we continue to offer to the world the fulfillment we find in Him and the beginning of an eternity in His presence filled with absolute freedom, ineffable joy and abundant life. With paternal love in Him, † Archbishop DEMETRIOS of America
CLERGY UPDATE
Ordinations to the Priesthood Dn. Peter Zougras, Archbishop Demetrios, St. Paul Cathedral, Hempstead, N.Y. 01/08/12 Dn. Andrew Kearns, Metropolitan Isaiah of Denver, St. Catherine Church, Greenwood Village, Colo. 01/21/12
Katarina Basileiou/Apostoli/IOCC
The new poor of Greece includes young families like this woman and her two children who gratefully receive food and a blessing from His Beatitude, Ieronymos II, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece during his visit to one of the many soup kitchens in Athens run by ‘Apostoli,’ the social service agency of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Athens.
Elevation to Archdeacon Dn. John Chryssavgis–Archdeacon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, bestowed by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Constantinople 01/07/12 Assignments Fr. Panteleimon Klostri, St. Luke Church, East Longmeadow, Mass. 02/01/12 Fr. Konstantinos Manetas, Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church, Somerville, Mass. 02/01/12 Photos: Dimitrios Panagos
Offikia Fr. Demetrios Demopulos–Office of Protopresbyter, bestowed by Metropolitan Isaiah of Denver 07/19/09 Fr. Stylianos Muksuris–Office of Protopresbyter, bestowed by Metropolitan Maximos of Pittsburgh 06/12/11 Fr. Vasilios Bassakyros–Office of Archimandrite, bestowed by Archbishop Demetrios 01/07/12 Retired Priests Fr. James Moulketis 02/01/12 Fr. Theodore T. Trifon 02/01/12 Priests on Loan Fr. Nicholas Andruchow, to the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of Mexico 12/31/11 Leave of Absence Fr. Nicholas Andruchow
4
FEB–MARCH 2012
St. Photios National Shrine Celebrates 30 Anniversary A ‘Mini-Tour’ of the Shrine
(Above) The courtyard of the Avero House showing the entrance to the gift shop. The Avero House is of typical Mediterranean architectural style. (Below) The “L”-shaped extension behind the house includes the exhibit hall, Shrine and chapel as seen from the upstairs balcony that leads to the office.
The gift shop carries a large selection of religious items that can also be ordered by phone.
th
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – More than 500 people from throughout the Archdiocese marked the 30th anniversary of the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine with various events and church services Feb. 3–6 weekend. Trustees and Shrine supporters, including several Archons, were among those who participated. The St. Photios Shrine is the Archdiocese institution that commemorates the first Greek settlers in the New World, who came to Florida as part of the ill–fated New Smyrna colony established by Dr. Andrew Turnbull in 1768, during the 20–year period when Florida was a British possession. The Greeks, mostly from Asia Minor and the Peloponnese, along with a few hundred Minorcans and Corsicans, were ill–treated, ill–housed and ill–fed and mismanaged on the plantation about 75 miles south of St. Augustine. Many died. The colonists were eventually rescued by the Roman Catholic priest in the area, Fr. Pedro Camps, who established a church on the upper floor of what is called the “Avero House” on St. George Street. It became known as the “Greek Church” and also as the “Minorcan Chapel.” Ironically, Dr. Turnbull made a request in 1777 to King George III of England to allow for a Greek Orthodox priest to be invited to serve the Greeks, but he never received a response. At the time, King George was embroiled in fighting the American colonists further north who launched their War of Independence. Many of the remaining Greeks and Minorcans settled in the Spanish settlement, the oldest city in America, and the Greeks intermarried with the Minorcans and others, or relocated elsewhere. In the 1960s several Greek Americans in Florida and other parts of the country familiar with the history of the colony urged the Archdiocese to acquire the property as a historic site. Archbishop Iakovos strongly supported the idea, but it would be several years before the opening of the Shrine in 1982. The AHEPA paid off the mortgage the following year. The 30th anniversary weekend events included the opening of a temporary exhibit honoring the Greek Christians of Asia Minor on the 90th anniversary of the Smyrna catastrophe, a poetry reading by Presbytera Amhitate Manuel, a trustees dinner and Feast Day luncheon sponsored by Dr. Manuel and Elaine Tissura, and hierarchal Vespers and divine liturgies celebrated by Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta on Feb. 5 and 6. At the trustees dinner, Dr. Andrew J. Ekonomou, an assistant district attorney in Georgia and a Byzantine scholar, author and professor, spoke on the institution of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and its surprising ability to survive to the present day. “We didn’t always have patriarchs like St. Photios,” Dr. Ekonomou said. He noted that, of the total number of patriarchs, 191 were forcibly removed. Among these, 140 were deposed, 41 resigned, 3 were poisoned, 2 were murdered and 1 each was beheaded, blinded or strangled. Unlike Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who has served for 20 years, the average tenure for most patriarchs was 20 months, Dr. Ekonomou said. During the Ottoman years, several Greek factions would oppose each other over their own candidates for the office; something that the Ottoman Turks would exploit.
Recipients of the St. Photios Award for their exceptional volunteer services to the Shrine were Pamela, Michael and William Toundas of Jacksonville. They are shown with Archbishop Demetrios, Shrine Director Polexeni Hillier, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta and Fr. Nicholas Louh, pastor of St. John the Divine Church.
Shrine Treasurer Maria Carantzas and First Vice President Dr. Manuel Tissura receive the Medal of Saint Paul for their meritorious service; shown with Ms. Hillier, the Archbishop and Metropolitan and Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos, first director of the Shrine.
Archbishop Demetrios holds an informal discussion with some young people following Divine Liturgy on Feb. 5.
Archbishop’s reflections In his homily at the Feb. 5 Liturgy, Archbishop Demetrios likened the efforts to make the Shrine a successful endeavor to St. Photios’ efforts to serve and promote the Metropolitan Alexios addresses the congregation following the Feb. 6 faith “as an intense, deliberate, unyielding fighter” who Feast Day Liturgy. Religious and cultural artifacts donated by various individuals “plunged himself into the ocean of education through and supporters of the Shrine are displayed in the exhibit hall. intense, high–level study.” The Archbishop said that Photios “had to fight against the iconoclasts and for maintaining the Orthodox faith and not compromising it.” He said those who have supported and promoted the Shrine over the years are “the people that carry the legacy of such a great ecclesiastical person.” His Eminence had high praise for Metropolitan Alexios’ efforts over the years to support the Shrine, and his work with the youth of the metropolis. “He truly is a good shepherd here,” the Archbishop said. Commenting on St. Photios’ roles as scholar, humanitarian and patriarch, Archbishop Demetrios said that, among his accomplishments he “renewed and A temporary exhibit, “For Their Faith: Remembering the Greek recreated the University of Constantinople,” and “fought Christians of Asia Minor on the 90th Anniversary of the Fall of Smyrna,” curated by Shrine historians Drs. Bill and Gine Samonides, is on display through November.
Orthodox Observer photos
u u to page 12
Dozens of faithful attend the Divine Liturgy on Feb. 5. At left is the Wall of Honor listing names of Shrine supporters.
5
A RCHDIOCESE N E WS
FEB–MARCH 2012
41st Clergy-Laity Congress
Theme: ‘Chosen and appointed by God to go and bear fruit’ Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, In continuation of our series of reflections on the theme of our 41st Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress, “Chosen and appointed by God to go and bear fruit,” let us consider the question, “Where do we go?” It is very clear from the Holy Scripture in John 15:16 and throughout the Gospels and Epistles, that we are sent by God into the world with a message of His divine love and of the salvation that comes through Christ. By this message of truth and faith, offered through our worship, our ministry, and through all areas of our lives, we reveal the power and presence of Christ in all that we do. It is a witness of grace and redemption for a world that is burdened with sin and death. Where do we go? We go into all of the world, into our homes, communities, and workplaces, and into the lives of many who are searching for God and seek answers and meaning in the midst of the serious questions and challenges of life. We must recognize that all around us are people who have needs, and meeting these needs with the presence and love of God will bear tremendous spiritual fruit. There are those who need comfort in a time of great loss and pain. Others are struggling with challenging emotional and spiritual burdens, needing wisdom and strength to find a way through. Many are blinded by the deceptive influences of the world, and they need the illumination of their minds and hearts with truth. Some are facing spiritual or physical death, searching for the assurances of salvation and eternal life. Others around us are burdened with failure and need a message of hope to renew their lives. Many live in sadness and need enduring joy, many live in guilt and need forgiveness. When we see these great needs in the lives of people, so many of all ages and all walks of life, we realize why God has chosen and appointed us to go to them. The answers to their questions,
the goal of their quests, and the relief of their burdens are found only in Him. So many people are seeking answers to the greatest challenges of our human experience. They need help, a way to make sense of it all, and assurance that there is more to this life. In response to their needs, God sends us to bear the fruit that leads them to Him. The fruit of comfort and wisdom, of truth and salvation, hope and joy, love and forgiveness will be produced in lives that receive Him in faith. We have to go and be His witnesses. This means we will be searching for those in need. We will have an apostolic attitude, knowing that we are sent with a purpose, blessed with the gifts we need, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit who will guide us in what to say and do. When we see the needs of others, we will follow the example of our Lord and respond in compassion, not thinking of ourselves in a selfish manner, but showing genuine concern for the life and well-being of another. In addition, when we go and find others struggling in the midst of life’s challenges, we will commit ourselves to helping them. Fruit is not produced without cultivation. Spiritual fruit needs our time, our sacrifice, and our hard work—sacred work that will produce abundant and eternal blessings both in others, in our lives and in our communities of faith. When we obey the call of God, when we recognize that we have been chosen and appointed by Him for a holy task, when we respond to Him and go to those who need to hear, see and receive His grace, the fruit will be transformed lives, renewed purpose, the discovery of meaning, and eternal life and communion with Him. With paternal love in Christ,
Save the Date July 1 - 5, 2012
Chosen and appointed by God to Go and bear fruit you did not choose me but i chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit.
(John 15:16)
Ὁ Θεός μᾶς διᾶλεξε κᾶι μᾶς ὥριςε νᾶ πόρευΘόυμε κᾶι νᾶ φερόυμε κᾶρπόυς όὐχ ὑμεῖς με ἐξελέξασθε ἀλλ’ ἐγώ ἐξελεξάμην ὑμᾶς καί ἔθηκα ὑμᾶς ἵνα ὑμεῖς ὑπάγητε καί καρπόν φέρητε. (Ἰωάν. 15:16)
† Archbishop DEMETRIOS of America
Θρησκευτικό Κάλεσμα στην Ελλάδα και στους Αγιους Τόπους Μοναστήρια και Μνημεία Βυζαντινής Κληρονομιάς
Ιστορικά και Λαογραφικά Για Eνοριεσ • Συλλογουσ • Κολλεγια Για προγράμματα και πληροφορίες απευθυνθείτε:
Pilgrimtours.gr • info@pilgrimtours.gr
Tel.: 011.30.210.3225.159
Phoenix Desert riDge
PHOENIX, AZ More information to come in future issues of the Orthodox Observer!
6
FEB–MARCH 2012
Stewardship & Evangelism
‘Let’s Make Stewardship Our Way of Life’ by Bill Marianes
“WHEW, I’m certainly glad that’s over. Now I can get back to normal.” This sentiment is perhaps one of the most widely felt emotions, generally in the fall, in most Greek Orthodox parishes in America. It follows the two “Main Events” we frequently dread in our church lives, namely our Stewardship Sunday and Greek Festival. Somehow, people we never see during the year magically get their GPS navigation systems to again find their church solely during the day they will attend (and maybe work) the Greek Festival. And then, as if Harry Houdini and David Copperfield attended our parishes, these “part-timers” become like groundhogs that show us their shadows as they disappear until next year. On the other hand, Stewardship Sunday strikes fear in the hearts and minds of many parishioners even more than having to go to confession. Someone might actually ask us to account for what we have done with the gifts God gave us. But thankfully for most, the traveling magic show comes into the pews on only one Sunday, with much fanfare, new slick banners, brochures and slogans, and then disappears just as quickly. Imagine if God only showed up and gave us His gifts one Sunday, or weekend, a year and then He disappeared and left us completely on our own with no food, nothing to drink, no sunshine, etc. Our Lord
gives us unconditional love and gifts every second of every day of our lives. Without His gifts we could not exist. The breath of oxygen you just inhaled and the lungs you used to process it to stay alive were both gifts from your Father. And yet we somehow think our stewardship can be relegated to one Stewardship Sunday or weekend of gyro–making and baklava–slinging. My simple definition is: “Stewardship is what you do with the gifts God gave you.” Nothing more complicated than that. Everything we have is a gift from our Father. And these gifts are ours for only the limited time we are here on this earth. And yet we sometimes forget that what we do with those gifts is one of the measures of whether or not our souls are prepared for salvation and the hoped-for eternal life of theosis and oneness with our Lord and Savior. Stewardship is a way of life. It is what we do every second, minute, hour and day of our life. It isn’t just about writing a check once a year. It is about demonstrating every day that we understand what our responsibility is with respect to ALL of the gifts we have received. We teach our children to say “thank you” when they receive gifts, but do we do the same to our Father who blesses us every moment of our lives? Thankfully, it’s not too late to walk the talk.
AHEPA is the key to opening doors: Hellenism – Preserving our culture in America Education – Providing scholarships to worthy students Philanthropy – Donating thousands of man hours & millions of dollars AAssociation – Americanism, volunteerism and patriotic endeavors HEPA is the key to opening doors:
Hellenism Preserving our culture Help AHEPA feed the–needy in Greece. To makein aAmerica tax deductible donation to Greek ducation – Providing scholarships to worthy students Inc.” to: AHEPA Aid mailEyour contribution made payable to the “AHEPA Foundation, Philanthropy – Donating thousands of man hours & millions of dollars Headquarters, 1909 Q Street, NW. Suite 500, Washington, DC 20009. Or visit our Association – Americanism, volunteerism and patriotic endeavors web site and click contribute.
Help AHEPA feed the needy in Greece. To make a tax deductible donation to Greek Aid mail your contribution made payable to the “AHEPA Foundation, Inc.” to: AHEPA Headquarters, 1909 Q Street, NW. Suite 500, Washington, DC 20009. Or visit our web site and click contribute.
AHEPA needs individuals like you to assist in providing scholarships, HUD homes to our nation’s elderly, or playing amateur athletics across this country. AHEPA does so AHEPA needs individuals like you to assist in providing scholarships, HUD homes to much for so elderly, many; you need toamateur be partathletics of our growing family, join usAHEPA in celebrating our nation’s or playing across this country. does so much for th so many; you need to be part of our growing family, join us in celebrating our 90 year. our 90 year. th
JOIN TODAY! • www.ahepa.org JOIN TODAY! • www.ahepa.org CElEbrAting 90 yEArs of sErviCE to our CommunitiEs!
CElEbrAting 90 yEArs of sErviCE to our CommunitiEs!
The book Oriented Leadership says “Stewardship is what a person does, after saying, ‘I believe’ as proof of that belief.” We all like to talk and tell folks what “we believe.” But what have we done lately with the gifts God gave us? Not just your talents, but including your talents. Not just your time, but including your time. Not just your money, but including your money. What have you done with the amazing thing that you do so spectacularly? Who in your parish have you taught that thing that only you can do so well? When was the last time you brought your wit, wisdom, philosophy, coaching, fix-it skills or just loving care to one of your Parishioners (or a total stranger) who was afraid, confused, lost, sick, suffering, hungry, thirsty, in prison, or just in need? There is only one thing keeping you from being the incredible steward you are capable of becoming. And that one thing is You. I know you are busy. So is everyone else. But every day of your life, among the trillions of gifts God gives you each nanosecond, are two very big ones. The first, is the gift of 24 hours. And the second, is the gift of free will to decide what you will do with the first gift. It is up to you. As we all told our children at one time or the other: “You are the boss of you.” What have you done today with the gifts God gave you? In which ministries of your parish, Metropolis, Archdiocese or
Patriarchate have you assisted this week or month or year? This is what you are called to do every day, not just the weekend of the Festival or Stewardship Sunday. You can’t change how you got to where you are, but you can change where you’re going. You don’t know when you will meet your Maker and be asked to account for your life. Perhaps you may not want to wait and hope you’ll get a “Hail Mary” shot like the thief next to our Lord on the day of His crucifixion. Ask to be remembered in His kingdom every day, and in every way you act, and with what you do with the gifts God gave you. Don’t wait for the Main Event(s). It might just be too late. Do something today! And God bless you as you pursue your own unique stewardship calling. SOTPAETJ (stay on The Path, and enjoy the journey) Bill Marianes is the managing partner of the Atlanta office of the McGuire Woods law firm. He serves on the Archdiocese Council, National Stewardship Ministries and as the Atlanta Metropolis General Counsel. To learn about the Igniting the Flame of True Orthodox Stewardship 101/201 program that helps parishes implement true Orthodox stewardship, contact Bill at 404-443-5700 or sotpaetj@ gmail.com or bmarianes@mcguirewoods. com.
FEB–MARCH 2012
The Voice of Philoptochos
7
Philoptochos Launches Appeal to Aid People of Greece National Philoptochos President Aphrodite Skeadas on Jan. 17 issued an immediate appeal to all Philoptochos presidents, members nationwide and their respective communities to support a drive for the welfare of the people of Greece. President Skeadas stated, “We enter 2012 mindful of the dire economic circumstances and supreme hardships faced by our brothers and sisters in economically ravaged Greece, our ancestral homeland. We cannot and will not turn our backs to the needs of our people.” Daily news reports document widespread poverty in Greece where many parents can no longer afford to provide adequate food and warm winter clothing for their children while other parents are forced to abandon their children in orphanages. People struggle to exist with less income as unemployment continues to rise. For all too many, hope disintegrates into depression. These tragedies affect young and old, families, and most importantly, the children who have had their dreams and futures taken away. National Philoptochos will provide a measured and deliberate response that addresses concrete social needs to alleviate hunger and homelessness, to strengthen family and children’s services and to ensure that families remain united. National Philoptochos Social Worker Paulette Geanacopoulos leads a team to identify appropriate nonprofit, non-governmental and religious organizations with which Philoptochos can partner to ensure maximum impact. Philoptochos will make every effort to ensure transparency and accountability regarding utilization of its contributions. Philoptochos Sisters are urged to unite in love to help those in need. Immediate aid is imperative and Chapters are asked to contribute generously to this unique appeal for the welfare of our fellow Greek Orthodox Hellenes. With the support of all members, National Philoptochos will offer life-changing and life-saving relief to help our brothers and sisters rebuild their lives at this critical time. Donations marked ‘Welfare of the People of Greece” may be sent to: National Philoptochos, 7 West 55th Street, New York, NY 10019. To make online donations go to www. philoptochos.org
SAVE THE DATE ! 2012 National Philoptochos Biennial Convention July 1 – 4 in Phoenix, Ariz. Be part of celebrating 80 Years of Philanthropy and help shape the vision for the next 80 Years. National Philoptochos releases limited edition 80th Anniversary Philoptochos scarf to rave reviews. To order visit: www.philoptochos.org
Orthodox Observer photo
San Francisco Metropolis Meeting
Members of the San Francisco Metropolis Board welcomed Archbishop Demetrios at their Feb. 18 meeting in Anaheim, Calif., where board President Jeannie Ranglas presented His Eminence with a donation and an embroidered framed cross with the words “Faith, Hope, Love” in Greek. Metropolitan Gerasimos also attended the meeting with Chancellor the Very Rev. Apostolos Koufalakis; Fr. Gary Kyriacou, chairman of the Metropolis Faith-DanceFellowship (FDF) Festival and six seminarians that the Metropolis Philoptochos hosted over the weekend.
Honoring Our Leaders: Dina Skouras Oldknow National Philoptochos celebrates ’80 Years of Philanthropy’ and continues its series of word vignettes recognizing our Past National Philoptochos Presidents. We proudly honor the seventh National Philoptochos President Dina Skouras Oldknow, and thank her for her service and the following reflections on her tenure as National President from 1990 through 1994. Dina was appointed to the National Board of Philoptochos in 1977, though she has been philanthropically and civically involved in Los Angeles since she was 22. She remembers with great joy hosting a three-day event in Los Angeles in 1984 on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the enthronement of Archbishop Iakovos. While attending the National Convention held in Washington in 1990, Archbishop Iakovos whispered to her “I’d like to talk to you about something”. She was nervous and thought she had done something wrong. It was there that he asked her to serve as the Philoptochos National President. The Archbishop told her with a smile on his face “I asked your husband first.” She was moved and extremely humbled to hold the office of National President. Dina traveled to New York approximately every 10 days during her two consecutive terms as National President. She spoke endearingly about Terry Kokas, who was director of the National Philoptochos Office at that time. Terry assisted Dina greatly during her term of office. The Children’s Medical Fund was established under Dina’s first term as president. There was a medical fund luncheon in New York but the luncheon was not held in each Diocese until later. During Dina’s second term IOCC was introduced to the National Philoptochos. Dina is very proud of the fact that she visited every Diocese, Canada and South America (at that time Canada and South America were under our jurisdiction) She recalls with a smile that in 1991 she met Jeannie Ranglas, a young chapter president. She is so proud of Jeannie who is now president of the Metropolis of San Francisco. Dina’s family has always been
DINA SKOURAS OLDKNOW
very supportive of her great passion for the society. She has four daughters: Elizabeth, who has two daughters and a son; Theodora; Constantina; and Teresa, who has one son and one daughter. She states emphatically that without the support of her family and especially her husband Bill of blessed memory she would have had a very difficult time traveling back and forth to New York and spending so much time away from them. In 2007 Dina was asked by her parish priest, Fr. John Bakas to take the helm once again as chapter Philoptochos president of St. Sophia Cathedral where she served from 2007–2011. Dina travels to the Clergy–Laity Conferences and to National Philoptochos Board meetings and delights all the members with her warm smile but most importantly her enduring faith and commitment to Philoptochos. Dina feels strongly that the National Philoptochos should have a home of its own. She states “The Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy should be a priority for all Greek Orthodox people as we celebrate our 80th year of Philanthropy and service to our Church”. (Thanks are extended to Jeannie Ranglas, Metropolis of San Francisco President and Kathy Gabriel, National Philoptochos 3rd Vice President, for meeting with Dina to capture her message to all Philoptochos members and friends.)
Terry Kokas Passes Away by Christine Karavites
Terry Kokas, the first press and information officer of the Archdiocese and the third director of the National Philoptochos, passed away in Chicago on Jan.15. The National Philoptochos Society and the entire Church in America lost a faithful Church woman and a talented and brilliant public relations pioneer in her passing. Terry was a Chicago resident first at St. Nicholas Church and later at the Assumption Church until His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos, of blessed memory, appointed Terry to serve the Greek Orthodox Church of North and South America as the first publicity director of the Archdiocese. She held that position for 25 years, then was appointed as the national director of Philoptochos, where she served for 10 years. Archbishop Iakovos honored Terry for her outstanding service and commitment to the Church by bestowing upon her the Archdiocesan Medal of St. Paul and the Medal of St. Andrew. Terry was truly a pioneer who promoted the Greek Orthodox Church of America and was a sought after resource for both national and international reporters and media. As National Philoptochos director she captured the important history of the organization in her memorable historical text and promoted the important Philoptochos philanthropic activities throughout the world. Terry was the daughter of the late Tom and Alexandra Kokas; a sister of Mary Andritsis, Ann Palermo, Lillian Stamas and Angelo Kokas, and the late Sam Kokas. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews and a special godmother to Sophia Skoubis. She was a longtime friend of Roula Pantazopoulos of New York and a dear friend to many throughout the United States. Memorial donations in her memory may be sent to the Children’s Medical Fund at the National Philoptochos Office, 7 West 55th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10019.
A RCHDIOCESE N E WS
8
FEB–MARCH 2012
Commentaries and Reflections A HIERARCHAL REFLECTION
ENCYCLICAL
Imagine If We Resolved To Live Our Lives Differently Sunday of Orthodoxy by Metropolitan Methodios of Boston
IMAGINE... A few weeks ago we closed our personal Book of 2011 and placed it in the library of eternity. Rather than make resolutions for the New Year - resolutions which more than likely I would not keep I decided instead to reflect upon the past, observe more carefully the present, and try to envision the future, as these aspects of time bear upon the life of the Church and of her members. I said to myself: “Imagine” how different the world would be if we lived each day as if it would be our last, as if at any given moment we would face Almighty God to give an accounting. After all, the Scriptures have warned us of the unpredictability of life, ‘The Master of the servant may come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know.’” (Matt. 25:50) Imagine how different things would have been last year - how many mistakes we would have avoided - had we cherished every day as a God–given gift to make our world a better place. I bet our priorities would have changed dramatically, thereby altering both the course of our personal life and our role in the life of the Church. I said to myself, “Imagine if in 2012 we would all learn to bridle our egos and ‘not be desirous of vain glory”’(Gal. 5:26). If we would learn from Him who said, ‘I am meek and lowly in heart”’(Matt. 11: 29). Imagine if in the New Year we were to set aside time each day to pray and to read the Holy Bible and the writings of the Church Fathers. Imagine if we lived each day according to the tenets of our Orthodox faith. Imagine if we lived each day by the truth. If we had the courage to drop the masks of hypocrisy–to look straight into the mirror of reality to see ourselves as we really are–and then muster the courage and strength to change. To become more wholesome and less shallow. To become more self–effacing and less narcissistic. To become what God has willed us to be and be happy with what we achieve by the grace of God. Imagine if we could replicate in our own lives the example of the tenth leper
(Lk. 17:12) who returned to the One who healed him to express his gratitude. Imagine if we were able to shun the example of the nine lepers whose ingratitude and thoughtlessness easily turns them into poster children of what has come to be known as “the age of entitlement.” I also thought to myself, “Imagine what our Church would be like if we bishops, priests and deacons lived up to the expectations of our high calling.” Imagine if we clergy and laity were imbued with a vibrant missionary spirit and worked diligently in response to the command of the Lord to ‘Go and make disciples of all nations’ (Matt. 28:19), starting right here at home in America! Imagine if we clergy were ever-mindful of the fact that the Priesthood is a precious gift, a vocation and not a job. The priesthood, its dignity and honor, cannot be bought. It cannot be sold for ‘a plate of lentils.’” (Gen. 25: 29-34) Imagine for a moment if our liturgical services were as uplifting as those which long ago inspired the words of the Russian emissaries of Prince Vladimir who described their experience of the liturgy in the great cathedral church of St. Sophia in Constantinople in their initial encounter with Orthodoxy: “And the Greeks led us to the edifice where they worship their God, and we knew not whether we were in heaven or on earth. For on earth there is no such splendor or such beauty...We only know that God dwells there among men, and their service is fairer than the ceremonies of other nations. For we cannot forget that beauty.” Imagine if everyone who is privileged to serve on the parish councils of our communities did so for unselfish reasons and not for self-projection or to satisfy some selfperceived importance and indispensability. Imagine if all parish council members were men and women of deep and abiding faith who live the sacramental life of the Church. People who are drawn to and love the beauty of the Lord’s house wherein they experience Christ’s transforming power and sanctifying presence. People who do not pride themselves in proclaiming that they “meditated on God when they walked by the ocean!”Imagine how powerful the witness of our Church would be if we would invest more in things eternal and less in things transient. If we would devote as much time
Visions of Forgiveness by Dr. Tony Vrame
We often think of the Sundays of the Triodion independently from one to the next according to wonderful and appropriate themes: humility in the Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee; return from exile in the Publican of the Prodigal Son; the last judgment in the Parable of the Last Judgment; and forgiveness itself from Christ’s Sermon on the Mount. Notice that three of these are parables, essentially extended metaphors that are meant to help us understand how God works. The parables are rich stories that allow for many possible avenues of reflection. What happens when we connect all the stories to the final teaching moment in this coming Gospel reading, the Sunday of Forgiveness? Is forgiveness the key to understanding all of these? Does forgiveness in various dimensions become
the “clue” to understanding our preparation for Great Lent? In order to be forgiven, one must first become humble. The Publican measured himself against God’s standards, where as the Pharisee compared himself to other men. The Publican went home justified, meaning “right with God,” in other words, he had restored his relationship with God. The Prodigal asked his father directly to forgive him. The overwhelming love of the Father, not only forgave, but restored the son, even though the Father had every right not to. A loving God is waiting for us to return to him and will forgive us. Without a loving Father, the Parable loses its point. The Parable of the Last Judgment though shows that the Father doesn’t always forgive. Notice how in this story, despite the plea from the latter group, the Father didn’t relent and still sent them to a place
to our spiritual edification as we do to our business commitments and social calendars. Imagine if everyone, according to their means, was a cheerful giver providing the Church with the necessary financial resources to continue, improve and expand her ministries and services in fulfillment of her saving mission to the world. Imagine if some of us realized that we contribute less to the Church than it costs us daily to enjoy a fancy cup of coffee or to pay for our cable or satellite TV service. Imagine if the criticisms we sometimes hear or make on aspects of church life were less strident. Constructive and not destructive. Mean-spirited attacks are hurtful and divisive. We have been enjoined by the Lord to notice first the log in our own eye before we see the speck in our brother’s eye (Matt. 7:3), and admonished by St. Paul, ‘You have no excuses, O Man, whoever you are, when you judge another, for in passing judgment on him, you condemn yourself because you, the judge, are doing the very same things’ (Rom. 2.1). Indeed, in imitation of God we are instructed to be ‘slow to anger and abounding in mercy.’” (Ps. 103:8) Imagine if we parents and grandparents who fault the Church when our children are “not involved” exercise greater discernment, and realize that children learn more by example than by words. That we had to provide a loving environment that nurtures faith and the values of the Gospel. That children emulate the example provided by parents every day of the week, including the seventh. Staying home Sunday after Sunday for chores, recreation or rest is not what parents should do if we really want to inculcate the Orthodox ethos in our children to produce a living faith and a true Greek Orthodox identity.imagine, finally, if everyone–clergy and laity–worked together in harmony by sharing talents, bearing one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2), exchanging views, seeking advice, forgiving offences and overcoming misunderstandings (Matt. 6: 14-15), inspiring and supporting one another in the love of Christ. If we did, surely we would be successful in building stronger Greek Orthodox homes and vibrant communities of faith. Just IMAGINE! of eternal punishment. In the teaching of Jesus about forgiveness, the key clause is “if.” There is a condition placed upon us to receive forgiveness. Asking for forgiveness for ourselves is not enough. We must forgive others. We cannot expect God to forgive us if we do not forgive others. These visions are about the individual and the interpersonal or social dimensions of forgiveness and the connections between them. These visions of forgiveness are not only about asking to be forgiven ourselves, but about forgiving others. It is not just about looking ourselves in the mirror and seeing ourselves for who we really are, but about recognizing how we look at others. It’s easy to look to the heavens and ask for forgiveness. It’s far more difficult to go to someone directly, have an honest discussion, and seek and give forgiveness Tony Vrame, Ph.D., is director of the Archdiocese Department of Religious Education.
To the Reverend Priests, the Deacons in Christ, the monastics, and all the pious and Christ-loving Orthodox faithful, “In the icons, we see the sufferings of our Master for us: the Cross, the Grave, Hades slain and pillaged; we see the contests of the Martyrs, the crowns, that very salvation which our first Prize-winner and Contest-master and Crown-bearer wrought in the midst of the earth. This festival we celebrate today and together we rejoice and are made glad with prayers and processions, and we cry out with psalms and hymns: Who is so great a god as our God? You are the God who performs wonders.” Synodikon for the Sunday of Orthodoxy Beloved Faithful, Brothers and Sisters in the Lord, Today on this magnificent feast of the triumph of our Holy Orthodox Faith, we behold the icon of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who is the Icon of the invisible God (Col. 1:15). Though no man has seen God at any time, the Only–Begotten Son, Who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him (Jn. 1:18). And in the living icons of our Lord Jesus Christ – the Saints, Martyrs and Confessors of the Orthodox Faith, we behold those who, by their holy lives and oftentimes by their martyric deaths have exalted the truth of the Gospel for all the world to see. We, who are their spiritual descendants and heirs, are bound to confess their heroic and saintly deeds, which bear witness to the greatness of God and the power of faith. The Sunday of Orthodoxy is most auspiciously placed at the beginning of the Great Lent as an encouragement for all of us to proclaim, and most importantly act, according to the ‘right belief’ of our Faith. We give honor to the memory of the Righteous by our authentic engagement in the spiritual disciplines of fasting, praying, and almsgiving. Through the help of our All–Merciful and Loving God, our sacrifices and spiritual efforts can bear fruit in our lives and in the lives of our families, church communities and society. What is more, these days of grace, repentance and transformation prepare us to become partakers of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ at Holy Pascha. As the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America, we exhort all the faithful to celebrate this Feast with special joy, and with a shared sense of our common Faith. The Assembly includes every canonical Orthodox presence in our region, and as such is a living icon of the varied traditions that have been carried to the New World by faithful Orthodox Christians from around the world. We encourage mutual celebrations and fellowship in the spirit of the Feast. Let us honor those who have come before us and preserved for us the integrity of Holy Orthodoxy. Let us be ourselves icons of the Living God, filled with faith, hope and love, and thus fulfill our Lenten struggle, and be counted worthy to worship the Holy Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. With paternal love in Christ, The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America
9
FEB–MARCH 2012
TALES FROM L.A.
Cultural Televangelism by Fr. John S. Bakas
I was having lunch at a friend’s restaurant in West Los Angeles the other day when I spotted a parishioner at another table enjoying a meal with his wife. I went over to greet them with a big hug and after some small talk I told Alex and Calliope that it had been months since I had seen them in church and I missed them. The last time I had seen them briefly was at the Easter Divine Liturgy. “Thanks for asking Father,” Alex said, “but you know we have subscribed to several Greek TV channels and watch the Liturgy from different parts of Greece on Saturday night and that seems to do it for us.” It wasn’t the first time I have heard such an answer. I’m hearing it more often. “to be honest with you Father, we really enjoy the television services from the old country. The splendid vestments of the bishops and priests and my, the beautiful voices of the deacons as they chant the petitions in Greek. The authentic and splendid Byzantine iconography and those chanters remind me of my old village in Greece. Every Saturday we can relive the glories of Byzantium and the cultural heritage of our people. Not only that, but we can have dinner with friends over at our house while the televised Liturgy is going on. It’s enough for us. If the phone rings I can mute the channel and if I don’t like what the bishop is saying I can turn him off. Oh, by the way, when is the next LA Greek Festival?” I, of course, wished them well, invited them to church with a smile and returned to my table. What a pity, I thought, Liturgy via satellite; impersonal and without involvement or participation; in a sense a form of “religious entertainment.” No demands, no obligations – just a nostalgic, religiouscultural fix from far away. Of course there is nothing intrinsically wrong with watching the Liturgy on television. One can be inspired and educated in a limited sense but the part of participating personally in the Divine Liturgy is missed. There is no substitute for sacramentally participating and praying with fellow believers in church. So many of our Orthodox Christians have limited themselves to seeing the Church strictly as a religiously cultural experience devoid of an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ in the context of community. Televised Liturgy for shut-ins and those not able to attend church for a time is certainly acceptable. But where is the fellowship? No Holy Communion, no required reverence, no prayer, no offering of oneself, no involvement, no repentance, no spiritual growth, no feeding on the Word and no sanctification. So many of our people who wear crosses as jewelry accessories or wear what has become trendy Komboskinia (prayer cord bracelets) on their wrists, do it as a cultural fashion statement. They become cultural Christians where their expression of faith, if any, is generic. Anything goes. Cultural Christians see Christ only in the merits of iconographic art, often arguing if an icon is truly in the Byzantine style or not, and miss the whole point of the icon’s purpose. They’ll use such cliches as “This is Western and not really Greek.” Cultural Christians see the church
building not as the spiritual house of God, a place of worship, a holy place, but an architectural statement where domes or no domes or arches determine the religious validity of the structure. Cultural Christians hear the hymns sung by the church choir and judge its beauty and correctness by nostalgic standard of their past cultural experience. Cultural Christians, and I have heard it from some prominent leaders of the Church, quietly say they don’t believe in the basic Credal statements of our Orthodox Faith. They really don’t believe in the Virgin birth of our Lord, the Divinity of Christ, His bodily Resurrection or Ascension; and one man said to me when referring to the Lord’s Ascension, “What, He went up like in a hot air balloon? Give me a break.” Yes, we recite the Nicene Creed but, for many, its just words, like children in school reciting the Pledge of Allegiance; words coming out automatically without understanding or meaning. Cultural Christians demand that the Church provide them and their families with entertainment, parties, sports, and social activities devoid of balance between the secular and the sacred. Many avoid a stewardship commitment. They know the cost of everything, but the value of nothing. One family left St. Sophia and went to the Baptist Church because their son could get saxophone lessons and play in the church “worship band.” Thus we see that cultural Christianity crosses denominational lines. Orthodox Christians don’t have a monopoly on it. English poet William Blake stated, “And we are put on earth a little space that we may learn to bear the beams of love.” Avoiding intimate involvement in the Church and experiencing true spiritual growth, we fashion “protective clothing and leaden aprons of indifference” that resist the spiritual radiation of God’s uncreated “beams of love.” There is a story of the proud young father, whose little son comes to him one day in a questioning mood. The son asks, “Dad, who is God?” The father thinks for a moment and then answers his son, “You know, Son, I’m not really sure…but I know He’s supposed to be important to us somehow.” The son pauses a bit and then asks, “Well, Dad, what about this man named Jesus? Why do we have all those pictures of Him in church?” The father peevishly scratches his head and responds, “Umm…I’m not really sure I know. But I do know that He’s pretty important to us.” So the son looks up to his father once again and asks, “Dad, what about when the priest brings out that gold cup with the spoon? Why is he doing that?” The father is starting to get a bit nervous now because he’s drawing a complete blank, but he answers his son honestly, “Son, I’m not really sure how to answer that either. But I do know that it’s pretty important to us.” After a few minutes of silence, the son looks up to his father to ask one final question. “Dad, you don’t mind me asking you all this stuff, do you?” The father, his heart swelling with great pride for his little one’s precociousness, smiles down at his young son and responds with confidence, “Of course I don’t mind, Son! How else are you going to learn?”
u u to page 20
From the Design Studio of Stefana Eternal comes the faith inspired collection
‘Crosses Byzantine’ Crosses Byzantine are decorative crosses inspired by Byzantine Artistic Tradition. Exclusively designed and crafted by hand, these family heirlooms are to be cherished for generations to come. Truly a gift worth giving by parents, grandparents or koumbari. 10822 W. National Avenue Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53227 Ph.: 414-321-5764 www.pauls-jewelers.com
Fotios Cross
Fares Begin at...
299
$
ONE WAY
480
$
plus tax
plus tax
rOuNd trip £∂§∂∆∂ to athens or thessaloniki º£∏¡∞ from new York ∂π™π∆∏ƒπ∞ RESTRICTIONS DO APPLY • SPACE IS LIMITED • CALL TODAY Lowest HoteL & Car Fares avaiLabLe
∂¶π∫√π¡ø¡∏™∆∂ ª∞∑π ª∞™ ™∆√ π¡∆∂ƒ¡∂∆
Contact: Eleni & Ari Poulos WEB: www.eleni.com • E-mail: elenistours@yahoo.com
LOWES priCES t tHE MAr iN KEt
∂�›Û˘·Ó·�·Ì‚¿ÓÔ˘Ì ¢È·‚·Ù‹Úȷηș˘Ì‚Ô�·ÈÔÁÚ·ÊÈο (¶�ËÚÂÍÔ‡ÛÈ·,ªÂÙ·ÊÚ¿ÛÂȘ, ¶ÈÛÙÔ�ÔÈËÙÈο,Î.�.�.)
NoN stop flight us air from
1-800-989-4733
5 Bayberry Drive, Broomall, PA 19008
Call Now and Begin Saving Money with Eleni Tours, Inc.
phila to atheNs
aNd coNtiNue to thessaloNiKi
610-355-7730 • Fax: 610-355-0823
Oriental carpet & area rugs
Ceramic tile & grout cleaning
Upholstery & fine fabrics
Headboards & bed frames
Drapery & shades
Fabric walls
Marble & stone cleaning
Leather furniture
Serving the Tri-State Area 212.777.4040 fabracleen.com fabracleenstoneandtilecare.com
10
FEB–MARCH 2012
Trakatellis Fellowship Applications Available The Archdiocese Chancellor’s Office has applications available from the Christos and Georgia Trakatellis Fellowship Fund, which Archbishop Demetrios and his brother, Professor Antonios Trakatellis, established in 2011 in memory of their parents, Christos and Georgia. The fund offers fellowships to Holy Cross School of Theology graduates who plan to continue their studies in the Greek language, Hellenic culture and liturgical practice. This study could be part of either an established doctoral or masters-level program, or of a free program. It should be well-structured and clearly defined in view of the fund’s purpose that could be pursued in the United States, in Greece or at the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Candidates shall be chosen based
on merit and need. The Fellowship provides $3,000 per semester, up to two semesters. One or more full or partial fellowships will be awarded annually. Instructions and applications are available on the Archdiocese website: www.goarch.org Candidates may also contact the Chancellor’s Office (by e–mail at: scholarships@goarch.org or by calling (212) 774-0513 to request an application. Applications must be completed and submitted with all necessary documentation to the Chancellor’s Office by April 20. Submitting an application does not automatically guarantee an award. Each candidate’s application will be considered individually along with supporting documentation.
An Invitation to HCHC Alumni As part of the 75 th anniversary commemoration of Holy Cross School of Theology, the Orthodox Observer invites alumni of the School to submit a brief article (250500 words) of a memorable experience (anecdotal, poignant or other personal remembrance) of your years at the seminary. It may focus on a particular classroom experience,
religious or social experience or other topic of your choice. Articles will appear in each issue through the culmination of the anniversary in May 2013. Include your name, year of graduation and current position. Submit by e-mail to the Observer (jim@goarch.org, or observer@ goarch.org).
HCHC NEWS
Memories of Holy Cross by Helen I. Jonas
A most memorable moment….how do I narrow it down? Both Hellenic & Holy Cross were heaven on earth for me. As a graduate of Hellenic, my most memorable moment was when I stood before the iconostasis where Archbishop Iakovos solemnly and reverently placed the cross around my neck. As I listened attentively to his poignant words, how we are servants of God, how we at the seminary are a family (Oh… how true!), and how we need to learn as much as we can about our Holy Orthodox Faith and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I felt as though I was in heaven here on earth. Finally, as a graduate of our beloved Holy Cross seminary, my most memorable moment was when my brother, Fr. Nicholas Jonas, and I both graduating from Holy Cross as the first brother/ sister tangent (what an honor!). As we departed our beloved school for the final time via car, the tearful embrace of our brothers and sisters that we so came to love over our six-year journey became a reality for us that, although it was good-bye, it was only temporary as we knew we were friends and family for life. Before we made our final departure that early morning (3 a.m.), we stopped by the closed doors of the chapel were we both hugged her columns and kissed her doors as though kissing our parents good-bye, we embraced and confirmed that this is our home and that our school with her outstretched arms, is our mother and is always welcoming us home. My mother told me during my stay on the “holy hill” that these would be the best years of my life and to enjoy
them. Oh how true and oh how I did! I literally lived each moment to its fullest – the campus life, the beautiful services and the day-to-day encounters as well as what Boston had to offer. I would like to end this reminiscing by thanking first and foremost, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the beautiful opportunity he afforded me to not only experience Hellenic College where I learned to become a teacher, but Holy Cross where I learned how to improve as an Orthodox Christian (my first lessons were from my beloved parents and parish priest). I want to thank all of my wonderful professors and teachers and the entire faculty of HCHC, for without them, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. And I also want to thank all of my spiritual brothers and sisters, especially my best friends, Florence Stabile McMahon and Jeannie Leventis and my sister-in-law, Anastasia Kocefas Jonas. Finally, I would like to thank my beautiful brother – what an honor it was to not only experience our school together but to also have the honor of being the first brother/sister tangent to have graduated from Holy Cross! I am currently an elementary/secondary education teacher, a chanter and religious education teacher at my parish of Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Palos Hills, Ill. where my brother is the parish priest. I also speak and chant at the neighboring Orthodox churches in the Chicago area. Helen I. Jonas is a1982 Hellenic College graduate and a 1984 Holy Cross graduate.
Holy Cross Responds to Missions Call by Fr. Luke A. Veronis
As Holy Cross School of Theology celebrates its 75th anniversary, how has our seminary lived up to fulfilling our Lord’s call of missions. Jesus Christ commanded his followers to “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and taught us to become the “light of the world” and “the salt of the earth.” As Christ was sent into the world to incarnate divine love and share His Good News to a hurting world, He clearly challenged his disciples: “as the Father has sent me, so now I send you.” We are all called to become “ambassadors of Christ” in proclaiming His eternal message to all people everywhere. It seems so obvious that our Orthodox Christian faith is imbued with this spirit of missions. Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, the foremost Orthodox missionary and missiologist, has often highlighted this in his writings: “The spirit of apostleship is indelibly wrought in the very nature of the Church and should be lived in every age. Mission is part of the Church’s genetic material, a fixed element in her DNA.” Yet a fundamental question we need to answer is “Have our seminarians faithfully tried to fulfill this missionary mandate?” Over the past 75 years, our school has graduated approximately 1,100 students from the School of Theology. Of those,
about 75 have gone on to serve outside of America. This includes 25 who have served for at least two years as long-term cross-cultural missionaries, including four who became metropolitans and one who became a bishop, and another 50 or so foreign students who have returned to their homelands to serve their home Churches in missionary settings, including another who became a metropolitan. With these estimates, we see that 2.3 percent of our graduates have become cross–cultural missionaries, and another 4.5 percent have returned to their homelands to fulfill the Great Commission by going forth and making disciples of all nations. Almost seven percent of our graduates have served or are serving outside of America! This may not represent a great number, but if we excuse the first 50 years of our school’s history as a time for an immigrant church to mature and stabilize itself within its own country, and look more closely over the past two and a half decades, we can see important progress in the missionary spirit! Over the past 25 years, 5.7 percent of our graduates have served as cross-cultural missionaries for at least a two year term. Another very optimistic sign of a growing awareness of our universal and catholic
u u to page 24
FEB–MARCH 2012
PA N- ORT HODOX N E WS
OCMC News Schools Planned for Children in Kenya ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – A few years ago, retired priest Fr. E. Anthony Tomaras of Gig Harbor, Wash., was searching for a way to honor his presbytera of blessed memory, Dr. Sophronia Tomaras, who had devoted her life to education, both secular and religious. A graduate of Koraes Greek-American Parochial School of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Palos Hills, Ill., she earned a BA degree from the University of Chicago at age 18, degrees in education from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, and her Ph.D. from the University of Washington, Seattle. Her professional career with the Tacoma Public Schools spanned 26 years as an elementary teacher, a research assistant, a senior editor of the district’s curriculum tests and a director in staff development for the Office of Research and Evaluation. For many years, she served as the Diocese of San Francisco Religious Education Commission chairwoman, and as a member of the Archdiocesan National Curriculum Committee authoring two books used in elementary grades, as well as the Department of Religious Education’s annual Planbook and Lectionary for Teachers. She also translated more than 80 Orthodox hymns into English and published them in a widely used hymnal. Two years ago Fr. Tomaras’ daughter, Presbytera Irene Supica, and her husband, Fr. Stephen, from Holy Trinity Church in Spokane, both long-time supporters of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC), approached Fr. Martin Ritsi with the idea of supporting the establishment of a school in Africa. Since the Turkana region of Kenya has been a major focus of OCMC in recent years, Fr. Martin looked into the education needs of the area on a recent trip there and conceived of the idea for a school. Fr. Tomaras recently made a contribution to the OCMC, for the children of the town of Lodwar in the Turkana region of Kenya to help establish the school complex, which will be named for Presbytera Tomaras. The project will include six separate classrooms for 30 students each, an office, kitchen, restrooms, and storage, as well as an area for religious services. The school will be under the auspices of the Orthodox Church through local clergy, one of whom is studying early education at the Masters level in the country’s capital of Nairobi. The facility will be an academy that will provide an Orthodox–focused education to raise the education level of the surrounding area.The Turkana region in far northwest
Kenya is a semi-arid desert with little infrastructure. Life is harsh for the people who are beginning to transition from a nomadic lifestyle. Orthodoxy is new to the area, growing rapidly, and being embraced with enthusiasm. There are many non-Christians in the region, and Orthodox clergy, both native and from the U.S. through OCMC, have been performing mass baptisms and extensive catechetical instruction. Along with the main facility in Lodwar, Fr. Anthony’s donation will fund two smaller classrooms in the remote desert village of Nekabosan whose residents are in the process of converting to Orthodoxy. Currently the children meet for instruction under a large tree, but miss many days because of the blistering heat and harsh elements.The site has been selected and prepared, and construction should start sometime soon. Fr. Martin Ritsi, executive director of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center in St. Augustine, Fla., recently told the Observer that the schools “will be of unbelievable help to them” (the Turkana tribe). Fr. Ritsi said negotiations are still under way for the property in Lodwar, where he hopes to build the primary school academy that would charge tuition. Income from the school would benefit the Orthodox Church there. The OCMC’s efforts have experienced occasional setbacks resulting from armed conflicts between tribes. At one point the people of Nekabosan had to flee across a nearby river and stayed with other Orthodox Christians in the area. However, the situation has returned to normal, Fr. Ritsi noted.
Albania School Serves Missionary Effort for 10 Years by Georgia Gilman Bendo
Protagonists School has just begun its 10th year in existence. From 12 students in 2002 to about 250 this year, we thank God for always blessing us with success and strengthening us to face new challenges. Archbishop Anastasios maintains education as a top priority in his vision for the Church’s social outreach in Albania. In Albania, students must study two foreign languages starting in 3rd grade. Since we are an “Albanian-American” school, our English program is essential and many of the parents choose Protagonists because of it. Although we are a private school it is still illegal
to teach the faith during school hours, so we must at least be vigilant that our curriculum is not working against us. I realized this last year while choosing the books for our English classes. Often the authors of these books are primarily interested in keeping the attention of young adults with little care to high moral standards. One series that the bookstore was encouraging us to use, for example, was rife with reading material about scandalous relationships and less than admirable examples of friendships. Fortunately we were able to find an excellent series for our
u u to page 20
11
12
St. Photios Anniversary u u from page 4 for philanthropy and charity.” He said that Photios’ actual purpose for sending the “two brothers from Thessaloniki” (Sts. Cyril and Methodios) on a mission to the Slavs in Central Europe was not to Christianize them, since they were already Christians, but to “educate them” through the creation of the Slavonic alphabet. The Archbishop called on the supporters of the Shrine to, in like manner, “fight and struggle to enhance our spiritual life and fight for a better community of what in which we belong.” He said the Shrine has existed 30 years because of “clergy and laypeople fighting and determined to help the institution grow quantitatively and qualitatively, of people and a community fighting for a tomorrow that is better than today.” Following the Liturgy, the Archbishop held a memorial service for the departed supporters and founders of the Shrine: Archbishop Iakovos, Ernest Villas, George Croffead, the Shrine’s godfather; Olga and George Fotiou, James and Stella Kalivas, Tom Xynidis, and Spero and Martha Zepatos. Awards ceremony Several presentations took place at the luncheon that followed. AHEPA Supreme
President Dr. John Grossomanides presented a Wall of Honor a donation registration on behalf of his organization and himself. Leadership 100 Chairman Constantine and Dr. Maria Caras registered on the Wall of Tribute and also were sponsors of the Feast Day Weekend. Leadership 100 registered in 2011. The Toundas Family of Jacksonville received the St. Photios Award for their volunteer service. Others registrants who received certificates from Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Alexios included Bethany Gregory of White Cloud, Mich., in memory of her parents William and Sophia; Jim and Helen Tasios of Winston Salem, N.C; Theodora Skarlis of Fernandina Beach, Fla., and Nicholas E. Kelley. The Shrine Essay Contest first place award was bestowed to Madelaine Assi. The benefactors of the contest are Archon and Mrs. Constantine M. Rizopoulos. In the 1980s and ‘90s, Dr. Rizopoulos served as principal of St. Demetrios School in Astoria, N.Y. Shrine Director Polly Maouris Hillier received a special award for her years of service. Archon and Trustee Ted Johnson presented a Dedication Day Recognition of committee members who created the Shrine and Bishops John of Amorion and Dimitrios of Xanthos for their strong support in its founding.
DO YOU LIKE THE ORTHODOX OBSERVER? HAVE YOU SOMETHING TO SUGGEST? SEND US A FEW LINES...
8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075
Fax:(212) 774-0239 E-mail: observer@goarch.org
FEB–MARCH 2012
Book Review Fr. Papademetriou Edits Book on Orthodox – Muslim Dialogue In 1985 a conference took place at Hellenic College Holy Cross School of Theology that brought together Orthodox Christian and Muslim scholars in a dialogue about the ongoing relationship of the two faiths over the past 1,400 years. Among those in attendance was the Rev. Dr. George C. Papademetriou, retired professor at HCHC and former head of the library, who assembled the various presentations of studies given at the conference. The result was “Two Traditions, One Space: Orthodox Christians and Muslims in Dialogue,” published in 2011. The book notes that, for centuries, Orthodox Christians and Muslims have co-existed in close proximity to each other. The volume gathers scholarly studies about their historic connections, as well as contemporary efforts at dialogue that promote understanding. This encompasses some of the earliest attempts at dialogue involving St. John of Damascus, who considered Islam to be a heretical sect of Christianity, to the present-day efforts of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Fr. Papademetriou has drawn together articles that sketch important areas for dialogue, including the Muslim view of Jesus as a prophet, reflections on the efforts of John of Damascus and St. Gregory Palamas, the role of Aristotle in Islamic and Christian thought and other elements.
The book is available directly from the publisher, Somerset Hall Press, at www. somersethallpress.com, and is also available via Amazon.com and other online booksellers. Somerset Hall Press is located at 416 Commonwealth Ave., Suite 612, Boston, MA 02215.
FEB–MARCH 2012
METROPOLIS NEWS Annual Project Generation Symposium Engages Teens on Religion, Environment
BROOKVILLE, N.Y. – “There is no doubt in our mind that the only way forward is through the concerted effort of our younger generations. Ultimately it is you that need to address this issue; ultimately, it is you that will be faced with the consequences of this crisis; and, ultimately, it is you that will oblige us to assume responsibility for the way we treat the earth and its resources, encouraging us to do so in a manner that dignifies both creation and our Creator.” – Patriarch Bartholomew On Saturday, Feb. 4, youth from across the Direct Archdiocesan District joined together for the second annual Project Generation environmental symposium. Thirty-one teens gathered at the Church of the Holy Resurrection for a three-hour event that featured four presentations from their peers about environmental issues; a viewing of “Living Waters,” a video about the Religion, Science & Environment (RSE) Symposia organized by His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew; and culminating in a group discussion led by Frs. Evagoras Constantinides and Fr. John Vlahos. The participants in the discussion were engaged in breakout sessions and debate, and concluded with a brainstorming session, led by co-chairs Callie
Catacosinos and Chris Gabriel, to recommend next steps for all of our teens. In the winter months preceding this week’s symposium, project organizers were busy educating their peers on the efforts of His All Holiness by attending five inter-GOYA retreats, at which they spoke to more than 600 youth from across the Direct Archdiocesan District, and visiting numerous parishes, speaking at GOYA meetings and Teen Seminars. By the day of the event, five parishes sent a total of 31 teens to participate. Team Generation will continue to work with Goyans from across the DAD, rolling out the recommendations of this year’s symposium. In addition, project founder Chris Gabriel has been invited to attend the Boston Metropolis Winter Camp, where he will introduce Generation to the campers on President’s Day weekend. Planning sessions with the Metropolis of Pittsburgh are expected to begin by early March. Project Generation was initiated in 2009, responding to the call of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for the younger generation to lead the way forward on environment issues. Following more than a year of planning, organizing and recruiting, the inaugural symposium was held in February 2011, in conjunction with the Direct Archdiocesan District Youth Office.
13
14
FEB–MARCH 2012
ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΣ–ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 2012
ΕΤΟΣ 77 • ΑΡΙΘΜΟΣ 1273
Α ΡΧ Ι Ε Π Ι ΣΚΟΠ Ι Κ Η Ε Γ Κ Υ Κ Λ ΙΟΣ
Ἑορτή Ἁγίου Φωτίου και Ἡμέρα Ἐθνικοῦ Προσκυνήματος Πρός τούς Σεβασµιωτάτους καί Θεοφιλεστάτους Ἀρχιερεῖς, τούς Εὐλαβεστάτους Ἱερεῖς καί ∆ιακόνους, τούς Μοναχούς καί Μοναχές, τούς Προέδρους καί Μέλη τῶν Κοινοτικῶν Συµβουλίων, τά Ἡµερήσια καί Ἀπογευµατινά Σχολεῖα, τίς Φιλοπτώχους Ἀδελφότητες, τήν Νεολαία, τίς Ἑλληνορθόδοξες Ὀργανώσεις καί ὁλόκληρο τό Χριστεπώνυµον πλήρωµα τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς. Προσφιλεῖς Ἀδελφοί καί Ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Μέ τήν Γιορτή τῆς µνήµης τοῦ Ἁγίου Φωτίου τοῦ Ὁµολογητοῦ καί Πατριάρχου Κωνσταντινουπόλεως, εὑρισκόµεθα χρονικά στήν ἔναρξη µιᾶς ἰδιαιτέρας περιόδου λατρείας, καθηµερινῶν προσευχῶν καί στοχασµῶν µας. Ἔχει ἤδη ἀρχίσει ἡ περίοδος τοῦ Τριωδίου, οἱ τρεῖς ἑβδοµάδες πρό τῆς Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς, καί στήν παροῦσα περίοδο οἱ λατρευτικές εὐκαιρίες, τά ἁγιογραφικά ἀναγνώσµατα καί οἱ ὕµνοι κατευθύνουν τήν προσοχή µας πρός τήν ἀνάγκη νά προετοιµασθοῦµε γιά τήν Μεγάλη Ἑβδοµάδα: τήν ἑβδοµάδα τῆς Σταυρώσεως καί Ἀναστάσεως τοῦ Κυρίου µας. Καλούµεθα, ἐπίσης, νά ἀναλογισθοῦµε τίς δυσκολίες τῆς ζωῆς µας ὡς Χριστιανῶν καί νά βιώσουµε τή δύναµη καί τίς εὐλογίες οἱ ὁποῖες πηγάζουν ἀπό τή ζωή τῆς πίστεως. uΣελίδα 17
41η Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση Θέμα: Ὁ Θεός μᾶς διάλεξε καί μᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦμε καί νά φέρουμε καρπούς Προσφιλεῖς Ἀδελφοί καί Ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Καθώς ἀρχίσαµε αὐτή τή νέα χρονιά καί τίς ἑτοιµασίες µας γιά τήν ἐπερχοµένη 41η Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς µας, σᾶς προσκαλῶ σέ µιά ἀρχική θεώρηση τοῦ θέµατος αὐτῆς τῆς εὐλογηµένης συνάξεώς µας: Ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά φέρουµε καρπούς. Τό θέµα αὐτό βασίζεται στούς λόγους τοῦ Κυρίου µας
41η Διετής Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση 1-5 Ιουλίου, Phoenix, AZ στούς µαθητές Του στό κατά Ἰωάννην Εὐαγγέλιο (Ἰωάν. 15:16), ὅταν τούς δίδαξε περί τῆς σηµασίας τῶν σχέσεων µεταξύ των καί τούς διαβεβαίωνε περί τοῦ µεγάλου ἔργου τό ὁποῖο θά πραγµατοποιοῦσε ὁ Θεός µέσῳ τῆς πιστῆς διακονίας των. Ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπε: οὐχ ὑµεῖς µε ἐξελέσασθε ἀλλ’ἐγώ ἐξελεξάµην ὑµᾶς καί ἔθηκα ὑµᾶς ἵνα ὑµεῖς ὑπάγητε καί καρπόν φέρητε (Ἰωάν. 15:16). Σ’αὐτό τό πρῶτο ἄρθρο
σειρᾶς ἄρθρων ἐπί τοῦ θέµατος τῆς Κληρικολαϊκῆς µας, ἐξετάζουµε τή σηµασία αὐτοῦ τοῦ βιβλικοῦ ἐδαφίου καί τήν ἐπίγνωση πού αὐτό προσφέρει σχετικά µέ τή ζωή καί τήν διακονία µας ὡς Ὀρθοδόξων Χριστιανῶν καί τήν προσφορά ἀγάπης καί ἀποστολικῆς διακονίας τῆς Ἐκκλησίας µας στήν Ἀµερική. Οἱ ἀνωτέρω λόγοι τοῦ Κυρίου µας ἀρχίζουν µέ τήν ἐπιβεβαίωση τῆς ἐκφράσεως τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Θεοῦ πρός ἐµᾶς. Ἔχουµε ἐπιλεγεῖ ἀπό Ἐκεῖνον διότι ἐν ἀγάπῃ µᾶς δηµιούργησε, µᾶς συγχώρησε καί µᾶς λύτρωσε. Μᾶς ἐπέλεξε γιά µία ἰδιαίτερη καί αἰώνια σχέση µαζί Του µέσῳ τῆς ὁποίας ἀποκαθίσταται ἡ κοινωνία µαζί Του, µεταµορφώνεται καί ἀνακαινίζεται ἡ ζωή µας καί µᾶς παρέχεται ἡ δύναµη νά ζήσουµε σέ κατάσταση ἁγιότητος. Μᾶς ἐδιάλεξε γιά κάποιο σκοπό. Στήν Α’ Ἐπιστολή τοῦ Ἀποστόλου Πέτρου διαβάζουµε: Ὑµεῖς δέ γένος ἐκλεκτόν βασίλειον ἱεράτευµα, ἔθνος ἅγιον, λαός εἰς περιποίησιν, ὅπως τάς ἀρετάς ἐξαγγέλητε τοῦ ἐκ σκότους ὑµᾶς καλέσαντος εἰς τό θαυµαστόν Αὐτοῦ φῶς (Α’
uΣελίδα 16
ΤΑΜΕΙΟ ΑΡΩΓΗΣ για τους αδελφούς μας στην Ελλάδα ΝΕΑ ΥΟΡΚΗ – Έκκληση για την οικονομική υποστήριξη του δοκιμαζόμενου Ελληνικού λαού και την άμεση και ουσιαστική βοήθεια προς τους αδελφούς μας της Ελλάδος απηύθυνε ο Σεβασμιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αμερικής κ. Δημήτριος με ειδική εγκύκλιό του εξ ονόματος της Ιεράς Επαρχιακής Συνόδου προς το πλήρωμα της Ελληνικής Ορθοδόξου Αρχιεπισκοπής Αμερικής. Στην εγκύκλιό του ο Φωτογραφία: ΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ ΜΠΕΧΡΑΚΗΣ Αρχιεπίσκοπος Δημήτριος Κάτοικοι των Αθηνών περιμένουν τη σειρά τους κατά τη διάρκεια μεταξύ άλλων αναφέρει: «Η δωρεάν διανομής κρεμμυδιών από ντόπιους αγρότες στην Πλατεία οικονομική κρίση πού έχει Συντάγματος. κλυδωνίσει την Ευρώπη και έχει επηρεάσει βαθειά την Ελλάδα έχει πάρει διαστάσεις όπου η ταλαιπωρία των αθώων και η δοκιμασία των απλών ανθρώπων καλεί προς άμεση και ουσιαστική βοήθεια. Οι οικογένειες πολλών εξ ημών έχουν ρίζες στην Ελλάδα και πολλοί από μας έχουμε συγγενείς και φίλους οι οποίοι βιώνουν τη στέρηση, φαινόμενο πού έχει να παρουσιασθεί στη χώρα αυτή από τη σκληρή εποχή της κατοχής κατά τον Δεύτερο Παγκόσμιο Πόλεμο». Ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος τονίζει ακόμη ότι η ανταπόκριση στο κάλεσμα για τον έρανο πρέπει να είναι άμεση και γενναιόδωρη και προσθέτει: «Ενήμεροι της σκληρής αυτής πραγματικότητος, οφείλουμε να ανταποκριθούμε προσφέροντας αληθινή και συγκεκριμένη βοήθεια στα αδέλφια μας μέσω αξίων εμπιστοσύνης ανθρωπιστικών και φιλανθρωπικών οργανισμών που συνδέονται με την Εκκλησία, οι οποίοι θα βοηθήσουν άμεσα τους ανθρώπους με τις μεγαλύτερες ανάγκες». Για το σκοπό αυτό έχει δημιουργηθεί στην Αρχιεπισκοπή ειδικό ταμείο με την επωνυμία «Ταμείο Αρωγής για το Ελληνικό Λαό» και οι εισφορές πρέπει να αποστέλλονται στην Ιερά Αρχιεπισκοπή Αμερικής, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075 με την ένδειξη: Relief Fund for the People of Greece. Επιπλέον, η Εθνική Φιλόπτωχος Αδελφότης Κυριών της Ιεράς Αρχιεπισκοπής, έχει ήδη απευθύνει προς τις τοπικές οργανώσεις και τα μέλη της παρόμοια έκκληση.
ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΙΚΗ ΕΓΚΥΚΛΙΟΣ Ἐπείνασα γάρ καί ἐδώκατέ µοι φαγεῖν, ἐδίψησα καί ἐποτίσατέ µε Ματθ. 25:35 – Κυριακή τῆς Ἀπόκρεω
Προσφιλεῖς Ἀδελφοί καί Ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Ἐκ µέρους τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἐπαρχιακῆς Συνόδου τῆς Ἱερᾶς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς Ἀµερικῆς, ἀπευθύνω σέ σᾶς, τά πιστά µέλη τῆς Ἁγίας Ὀρθοδόξου Ἐκκλησίας µας ἐδῶ στίς Ἡνωµένες Πολιτεῖες, αὐτή τήν ἐγκάρδια ἔκκληση γιά τούς ἀδελφούς καί τίς ἀδελφές µας στήν Ἑλλάδα. Ἡ οἰκονοµική κρίση πού ἔχει κλυδωνίσει τήν Εὐρώπη καί ἔχει ἐπηρεάσει βαθειά τήν Ἑλλάδα ἔχει πάρει διαστάσεις ὅπου ἡ ταλαιπωρία τῶν ἀθώων καί ἡ δοκιµασία τῶν ἁπλῶν ἀνθρώπων καλεῖ πρός ἄµεση καί οὐσιαστική βοήθεια. Οἱ οἰκογένειες πολλῶν ἐξ ἡµῶν ἔχουν ρίζες στήν Ἑλλάδα καί πολλοί ἀπό µᾶς ἔχουµε συγγενεῖς καί φίλους οἱ ὁποῖοι βιώνουν τή στέρηση, φαινόµενο πού ἔχει νά παρουσιασθῇ στή χώρα αὐτή ἀπό τή σκληρή ἐποχή τῆς κατοχῆς κατά τόν ∆εύτερο Παγκόσµιο Πόλεµο. Ἐνήµεροι τῆς σκληρῆς αὐτῆς πραγµατικότητος, ὀφείλουµε να ἀνταποκριθοῦµε προσφέροντας ἀληθινή καί συγκεκριµένη βοήθεια στά ἀδέλφια µας µέσῳ ἀξίων ἐµπιστοσύνης ἀνθρωπιστικῶν καί φιλανθρωπικῶν ὀργανισµῶν πού συνδέονται µέ τήν Ἐκκλησία, οἱ ὁποῖοι θά βοηθήσουν ἄµεσα τούς ἀνθρώπους µέ τίς µεγαλύτερες ἀνάγκες. Καθώς πλησιάζει ἡ Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Τεσσαρακοστή, καί θά κληθοῦµε ἀπό τήν Ἐκκλησία νά ἐπιδείξουµε µεγαλύτερη εὐαισθησία στίς ἀνάγκες τῶν συνανθρώπων µας, εὔχοµαι ὁ κάθε Χριστιανός νά ἀπαντήσῃ γενναιόδωρα σ’ αὐτή τήν ἰδιαίτερη ἔκκληση προσφέροντας στό Relief Fund for the People of Greece τῆς Ἀρχιεπισκοπῆς. Εὐχόµενος καί προσευχόµενος πατρικά γιά σᾶς καί τίς οἰκογένειές σας ὥστε αὐτή ἡ περίοδος τῆς Ἁγίας καί Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς νά εἶναι πληρέστερη πνευµατικῶν ἀνταµοιβῶν λόγῳ τῆς ἀγάπης καί γενναιοδωρίας σας, διατελῶ
Μέ πατρική ἀγάπη,
† ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀμερικῆς Δημήτριος
16
ΟΡΘΟ∆ΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ
ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΣ–ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 2012
41η Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση “ Ὁ Θεός μᾶς διάλεξε καί μᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦμε καί νά φέρουμε καρπούς” uΣελίδα 15 Πέτρου 2:9). Ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε νά προσφέρουµε µαρτυρία τῆς ὑπάρξεώς Του διά τῆς λατρείας καί διακονίας µας. Σύµφωνα µέ τούς λόγους τοῦ Ἀποστόλου Παύλου πρός τόν Τιµόθεο, ὁ Θεός µᾶς ἐκάλεσε κλήσει ἁγίᾳ οὐ κατά τά ἔργα ἡµῶν, ἀλλά κατ’ ἰδίαν πρόθεσιν καί χάριν τήν δοθεῖσαν ἡµῶν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ (Β’ Τιµοθέου 1:9). Μᾶς ἐπέλεξε γιά κάποιο σκοπό. Ἔχουµε ἐκλεγεῖ γιά νά πραγµατοποιήσουµε πᾶσαν εὐδοκίαν ἀγαθωσύνης καί ἔργον πίστεως ἐν δυνάµει ὅπως ἐνδοξασθῇ τό ὄνοµα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡµῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐν ὑµῖν καί ὑµεῖς ἐν Αὐτῷ (Β’ Θεσ. 1:11-12). Ἐπιπλέον, ἐφόσον ὁ Θεός µᾶς ἐπέλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε, µᾶς δίδει καί ὅλα ὅσα χρειαζόµεθα γιά νά ἐκπληρώσουµε αὐτό τό µεγάλο ἔργο. Μᾶς ἐφοδιάζει µέ χάρη, δύναµη, ἱκανότητα, σοφία καί τά µέσα γιά ν’ ἀναπτύξουµε ἀποτελεσµατικούς τρόπους µεταδόσεως τοῦ Εὐαγγελίου τῆς ἱάσεως, τῆς ἀληθείας καί τῆς εἰρήνης. Ἡ ἐκλογή καί ἀποστολή µας ἀπό τόν Θεό σ’ αὐτό τόν χρόνο καί τόπο ἐµπερικλείει ἐπίσης καί τήν θεία ἐντολή Του νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά φέρουµε καρπούς. Ὁ Κύριος παρότρυνε τούς µαθητές Του καί ἐµᾶς νά πορευθοῦµε µαθητεύσαντες πάντα τά ἔθνη (Ματθ. 28:19). Ἔχουµε, λοιπόν, ἀποστολή ὅπως οἱ Ἀπόστολοι νά πορευ-
θοῦµε καί νά κηρύξουµε λέγοντες ὅτι ἤγγικεν ἡ βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν (Ματθ. 10: 7), καί νά συγκεντρώσουµε τόν λαό τοῦ Θεοῦ ἵνα γεµισθῇ ὁ Οἶκος Του (Λουκ. 14:23). Ὡς ἄνθρωποι τοῦ Θεοῦ, τούς ὁποίους ἐπέλεξε καί ὥρισε, ἔχουµε ταυτοχρόνως µίαν ἀποστολή καί ἕνα µήνυµα νά δώσουµε στόν κόσµο. Στό πνεῦµα τῆς ἀγάπης Του γιά µᾶς καί γιά ὅλη τήν ἀνθρωπότητα, µᾶς δίνει τήν ἐντολή: πορευθῆτε. Ὅταν ἀκούσουµε τήν φωνή καί τό κάλεσµα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅταν ἀνταποκρινόµεθα στό θέληµά Του, τό ἀποτέλεσµα θά εἶναι µεγάλο καί ἄφθονοι καρποί θά γεµίσουν τή ζωή, τόσο τήν δική µας ὅσο καί τῶν ἄλλων. Πρέπει νά συνειδητοποιήσουµε τή σπουδαιότητα τῆς ἐπιλογῆς µας καί τῆς ἀποστολῆς µας ἀπό τόν Θεό νά πᾶµε στόν κόσµο καί νά µοιρασθοῦµε µαζί του τό Εὐαγγέλιο. Ἀπολαµβάνουµε τόν καρπό τῆς ἀδελφοσύνης καί τῆς σωτηρίας ὅταν γινόµεθα δικοί Του ἄνθρωποι καί καλοῦµε τούς ἄλλους ν’ ἀποµακρυνθοῦν ἀπό τό σκοτάδι καί νά ἀγκαλιάσουν τό θαυµαστό φῶς Του. Ἀναγνωρίζουµε τόν καρπό ὁ ὁποῖος προέρχεται ἀπό τήν πίστη ὅταν ἀποδεχόµεθα τήν ἀποστολή µας ὡς ὁµολογητῶν τῆς χάριτος καί τῆς ἀληθείας, καί ὅταν ὁ Χριστός δοξάζεται στή ζωή µας καί στίς ζωές τῶν ἄλλων καθώς προσέρχονται σ’ Ἐκεῖνον. Βλέπουµε τόν καρπό τοῦ Εὐαγγελίου καί τήν παρουσία τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ὅταν πορευ-
όµεθα καί µοιραζόµεθα τήν ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ διά τῆς λατρείας, τῆς διδασκαλίας καί τοῦ κηρύγµατος, καί διά τῶν εἰδικῶν ἀποστολῶν καί διακονιῶν πού προσφέρουν θεραπεία, εἰρήνη καί ἐλπίδα στούς ἀνθρώπους σ’ ὁλόκληρη τήν χώρα καί στόν κόσµο γενικώτερα. Ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦµε, καί ὅταν πορευθοῦµε, θά φέρουµε καρπό χαρᾶς καί ἀγάπης στή ζωή µας καί στίς ζωές πολλῶν ἄλλων. Καθώς ἀρχίζουµε τίς ἑτοιµασίες µας γιά τήν 41η Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευσή µας, ἄς µελετήσουµε τό θέµα της Ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά φέρουµε καρπούς.Ἄς στοχασθοῦµε τή σηµασία αὐτοῦ τοῦ θέµατος σέ κάθε τοµέα τῆς ζωῆς τῆς Ἐκκλησίας στήν Ἀµερική. Ἄς ἀξιολογήσουµε τό ἔργο καί τίς προσπάθειές µας, ἀναζητώντας τήν καθοδήγηση τοῦ Θεοῦ, σκεπτόµενοι κατά ποιόν τρόπο ἡ µαρτυρία καί ἡ διακονία µας φανερώνουν τήν ἐπιλογή καί τήν ἀποστολή µας ἀπό τόν Θεό, καί πῶς οἱ ἐνέργειές µας εἶναι ἀποτέλεσµα κλήσεως καί συγκεκριµένου σκοποῦ, µέ ἀποτέλεσµα νά ἀνταποκρινόµεθα ὑπευθύνως στήν ἐντολή Του νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά φέρουµε καρπούς. Μόνον τότε θά γνωρίζουµε ὅτι ἡ ἀποστολή µας ἐκπληρώνεται, ὅταν οἱ καρποί πού θά φέρουµε θά προσφέρουν χαρά στούς ἀνθρώπους καί δόξα στόν Θεό.
Φωτογραφία: ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ
30ή Επέτειος Ιερού Προσκυνήµατος Αγίου Φωτίου Αγ. Αυγουστίνος, ΦΛΟΡΙ∆Α - Πάνω από 500 άτοµα από όλη την Αρχιεπισκοπή τίµησαν µε την παρουσία τους την 30ή επέτειο ίδρυσης του Ιερού Προσκυνήµατος του Αγίου Φωτίου στον Αγιο Αυγουστίνο της Φλόριδα, µε διάφορες εκδηλώσεις κατά τη διάρκεια 3 – 6 Φεβρουαρίου. Συµµετείχαν κοινοτικοί επίτροποι και υποστηρικτές του Ιερού Προσκυνήµατος, συµπεριλαµβανοµένων αρκετών Άρχόντων του Τάγµατος του Αγίου Ανδρέα του Οικουµενικού Πατριαρχείου. Το Ιερό Προσκύνηµα του Αγίου Φωτίου είναι Αρχιεπισκοπό ίδρυµα που τιµά τους πρώτους Έλληνες αποίκους στο Νέο Κόσµο. Στο στιγµιότυπο ο Σεβασµιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αµερικής ∆ηµήτριος κατά τη διάρκεια Θείας Λειτουργίας στο Παρεκκλήσι του Ιερού Προσκυνήµατος του Αγίου Φωτίου.
Ἑορτή τῶν Τριῶν Ἱεραρχῶν καί Ἡµέρα των Ἑλληνικῶν Γραµµάτων ΝΕΑ ΥΟΡΚΗ.- Παραπάνω από τριακόσιοι-πενήντα προσκεκληµένοι έδωσαν το παρών το Σάββατο 28 Ιανουαρίου στην αίθουσα πολιτιστικών εκδηλώσεων του καθεδρικού ναού της Αγίας Τριάδας στο Μανχάταν, στα πλαίσια των τριήµερων εορτασµών της Ηµέρας των Τριών Ιεραρχών, από την Ιερά Αρχιεπισκοπή Αµερικής και τα κοινοτικά σχολεία. Κατά τη διάρκεια της ειδικής τελετής που διοργάνωσε µε επιτυχία το Γραφείο Παιδείας της Αµέσου Αρχιεπισκοπικής Περιφέρειας, Βραβεία Αριστείας των Τριών Ιεραρχών έλαβαν 69 µαθητές και µαθήτριες, τις ακαδηµαικές επιδόσεις των οποίων εξήρε ο Σεβασµιώτατος Αρχιεπίσκοπος Αµερικής ∆ηµήτριος, τονίζοντας πως «στα πρόσωπά σας, στα πρόσωπα των νέων παιδιών που είστε εδώ απόψε, βλέπω το µέλλον της Οµογένειας και του Ελληνισµού». Οι 69 µαθητές και µαθήτριες που αρίστευσαν στην Εξέταση της Νεοελληνικής Γλώσσας του 2011 είναι: Stella Angelakakis, Chris Angelidis, Evangelos Armatas, Orestis Avlonitis, Christos Bakalexis, Kalliopi Belitsis, Zoe Bousbouras, Despina Budis, Emmanuel Budis, Argiro Chatzis, Theodora Douros Danias, Christina Efstathiadis, Georgios Eleftheriadis, Polyxeni Emmanouil, Ileana Exaras, Eleftherios Gementzopoulos, Chrisa Georgakis, Nicholas Georgiou, Elias Germanakos, Christina Glekas, Eleni G ogos, De nnis G rap s a s, Ni kol a s Kefalonitou Gupta, Christina Hamelos, Maria Kakias, Sophia Karamatzanis, Dimitrios Kartas, Alexandra Katechis, Ourania Katechis, Theodora Kontopoulos, Anastasia Koronios, Demetrios Koutsidis, Markos Kouzounis, Paraskevi Leonardos, Barbara Ligas, Kalliopi Logothetis, Yianni Louka, Ismini Mangafas, Ariadne Manikas,
Despina Marmaropoulou, Aphrodite Megaris, Erofili Moraitis , Demetrios Neophytou, Alexandra Nerantzinis, Irene Nicholas, Dimitris Papas, Erini Papas, Joanna Papasmiris, Chrysoula Passos, Dimitri Perdik, Dimitris Petrakis, Theoharis Petsios, Mark Plimakis, Apostolos Polianidis, Chris Roditis, Vasiliki Savvides, Maria Shinas, Eleni Shyta, Stefanos Spiratos, Konstantinos Stavrou, Konstantinos Theologitis, George Trantafillou, Sophia Maria Tsilerides, Zachary Tzavelis, Alexandra Vasilakos, Katerina Vrionedes, Andreas Xenophontos, Maria Zacharis και Spiridoula Zolotas. Στην οµιλία του ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος ∆ηµήτριος τόνισε τη µεγάλη σηµασία του έργου των κοινοτικών σχολείων, των διδασκάλων, αλλά και των γονέων που αφιερώνονται στην εκπαίδευση των παιδιών τους. Αναφέρθηκε επίσης στην τεράστια και ανεκτίµητη πολιτιστική και εκπαιδευτική κληρονοµιά της Ελληνικής Γλώσσας, στη µεγάλη ανάγκη διατήρησής της, αλλά και καλλιέργειας της όχι µόνο στο χώρο του σχολείου, αλλά και µέσα στο σπίτι. Ο Σεβασµιώτατος τόνισε την τεράστια συµβολή των Τριών Ιεραρχών και των Εκκλησιαστικών Πατέρων σε αυτήν καθαυτήν την ανάπτυξη και τον γλωσσικό πλούτο της Ελληνικής. Στη συνέχεια επέδωσε στους 69 µαθητές και µαθήτριες τα «Βραβεία Αριστείας των Τριών Ιεραρχών» τα οποία έχει καθιερώσει η Αρχιεπισκοπή σε αναγνώριση των επιτευγµάτων τους στην Ελληνική Γλώσσα. Η Εξέταση στην Νεοελληνική Γλώσσα, γνωστή και ως Regents Test, είναι εγκεκριµένη και αναγνωρισµένη σε πολιτειακό επίπεδο και πραγµατοποιείται µε επιµέλεια του Γραφείου Παιδείας της Αµέσου Αρχιεπισκοπικής Περιφέρειας. Κύρια οµιλήτρια της βραδιάς ήταν η
Πολιτειακή Βουλευτής της Νέας Υόρκης, Αραβέλλα Σιµωτά, µε θέµα «Τα Ελληνικά, η γλώσσα της ∆ηµοκρατίας». Το πρόγραµµα παρουσίασε η διευθύντρια του Ελληνοαµερικανικού Ηµερησίου Σχολείου «Βασίλειος Σπυρόπουλος» του Αγίου Νικολάου του Flushing Νέας Υόρκης κ. Αθηνά Κροµµύδα. Η κυρία Μαρία Μακεδών, διευθύντρια του Γραφείου Παιδείας της Αµέσου Αρχιεπισκοπικής Περιφέρειας καλωσορίζοντας τους εκατοντάδες προσκεκληµένους τόνισε τη σηµασία του έργου των Τριών Ιεραρχών αλλά και της διατήρησης της ελληνικής γλώσσας. «Στις 30 Ιανουαρίου, η Εκκλησία µας τιµά τη µνήµη των Τριών Ιεραρχών – Βασιλείου του Μεγάλου, Γρηγορίου του Θεολόγου και Ιωάννη του Χρυσοστόµου – και γιορτάζει τα Ελληνικά Γράµµατα, το σύνολο της πνευµατικής µας κληρονοµιάς. Η Εκκλησία µας τιµά τους Άγιους Τρεις Ιεράρχες και Οικουµενικούς ∆ιδασκάλους, γιατί µε τη διδασκαλία τους, το παράδειγµά τους και το τεράστιο συγγραφικό τους έργο θεµελίωσαν την Ορθόδοξη Χριστιανική Πίστη και ζωντάνεψαν την αγάπη για τις κλασικές σπουδές και τα Ελληνικά Γράµµατα», είπε η Κ. Μακεδών. «Εχει καθιερωθεί, κάθε χρόνο, η Ιερά Αρχιεπισκοπή Αµερικής να εορτάζει τη σηµαντική αυτή µέρα µε λαµπρότητα και µε σειρά εκδηλώσεων, αρχής γενοµένης µε την αποψινή, που είναι αφιερωµένη στους µαθητές και τις µαθήτριες των κοινοτικών µας σχολείων. Γιορτάζουν και τα σχολεία µας, οι εκπαιδευτικοί και οι χιλιάδες µαθητές, που φοιτούν σ’αυτά και µαθαίνουν τα δικά µας Ελληνικά Γράµµατα. Τα κοινοτικά σχολεία της Αρχιεπισκοπής –ηµερήσια και απογευµατινά– έχουν µία συγκεκριµένη αποστολή: να δηµιουργήσουν ανθρώπους ηθικούς, Ελληνολάτρεις και περήφανους για την κα-
ταγωγή τους. Στα σχολεία αυτά, διδάσκονται τα παιδιά µας την ελληνική γλώσσα και βιώνουν τις ελληνο-χριστιανικές αξίες και παραδόσεις», ανέφερε η ∆ιευθύντρια του Γραφείου Παιδείας της Αµέσου Αρχιεπισκοπικής Περιφέρειας. Στη συνέχεια η κ. Μακεδών, εξήγησε στους παρευρισκόµενους πως αξιολογούνται οι µαθητές και οι µαθήτριες κατά τη διάρκεια των εξετάσεων. «Η αξιολόγησή τους έγινε µε βάση την επίδοσή τους στην Εξέταση της Νεοελληνικής Γλώσσας, γνωστή ως Comprehensive Examination in Modern Greek, την οποία επιµελείται η Αρχιεπισκοπή από το 1973 και χαίρει της αναγνώρισης των Αµερικανικών εκπαιδευτικών αρχών. «Για τη συγγραφή της Εξέτασης συνεργάζονται εκπαιδευτικοί κοινοτικών σχολείων και πανεπιστηµιακοί καθηγητές από εδώ και την Ελλάδα. Με την Αρχιεπισκοπή να επωµίζεται όλα τα έξοδα συγγραφής, εκτύπωσης και διαχείρισης, η Εξέταση παρέχεται δωρεάν στους µαθητές. «Τεράστια η συµβολή της Αρχιεπισκοπής µας, εποµένως, αν σκεφτεί κανείς ότι έχουν ευεργετηθεί χιλιάδες παιδιά από το 1973. Εφέτος, η εκπαιδευτική µεταρρύθµιση της Πολιτείας της Νέας Υόρκης κατήργησε τις εξετάσεις ξένων γλωσσών, καθώς δεν τις θεωρεί πλέον απαραίτητες για την αποφοίτηση των µαθητών από το λύκειο. Στην πραγµατικότητα, η Πολιτεία κατήργησε τις Εξετάσεις προκειµένου να αποφύγει το έξοδο και ζήτησε από τις κατά τόπους σχολικές επιθεωρήσεις (the local school districts) να δηµιουργήσουν τις δικές τους εξετάσεις ξένων γλωσσών ανάλογα µε τις ανάγκες της περιοχής. Κάτι ανάλογο µε αυτό που γίνεται στη δική µας περίπτωση για χρόνια, όπου η Αρχιεπισκοπή, ως η ανωτέρα Αρχή των κοινοτικών σχολείων, δηµιουργεί την Ελληνική Εξέταση», συµπλήρωσε η κ. Μακεδών.
17
ΟΡΘΟ∆ΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ ORTHODOX OBSERVER
ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΣ–ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 2012
41η Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση Θέμα: Ὁ Θεός μᾶς διάλεξε καί μᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦμε καί νά φέρουμε καρπούς
Η Θεολογική Σχολή της Χάλκης.
Φωτογραφία: ΝΙΚΟΣ ΜΑΓΓΙΝΑΣ
Οικουμενικός Πατριάρχης Βαρθολομαίος: «Ουδείς έχει να φοβηθεί από την επαναλειτουργία της Σχολής της Χάλκης» του Νικολάου Μαγγίνα
Την ελπίδα πως σύντοµα θα επαναλειτουργήσει η Θεολογική Σχολή της Χάλκης, έτσι ώστε να επανορθωθεί η αδικία που συντελέσθηκε το 1971 οπότε και αποφασίσθηκε µε απόρρητο διάταγµα της τότε Κυβερνήσεως το κλείσιµό της, εξέφρασε σήµερα ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης Βαρθολοµαίος, ηµέρα κατά την οποία η Πρωτόθρονη Εκκλησία της Ορθοδοξίας τιµά τη µνήµη του Αγίου Πατριάρχου Κωνσταντινουπόλεως Φωτίου, ιδρυτή της Ιεράς Μονής Αγίας Τριάδας Χάλκης. «Το Οικουµενικόν Πατριαρχείον...προέβαλλε πάντοτε προς τας Τουρκικάς αρχάς δια σειράς Μνηµονίων και Πατριαρχικών Γραµµάτων, αλλά και προς πάσαν άλλην διεθνή κρατικήν ή µη οργάνωσιν, το δίκαιον αίτηµα της επαναλειτουργίας της Σχολής, επιζητούν την επανόρθωσιν της αδικίας», είπε στην οµιλία του ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης και πρόσθεσε: «Τον Γολγοθάν, τον κάθε Γολγοθάν, το κάθε Πραιτώριον, την πάσαν αδικίαν ακολουθεί η Ανάστασις». Και ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης σηµείωσε µε νόηµα: «Ουδείς έχει να φοβηθή από την λειτουργίαν µιας τοιαύτης Σχολής. ∆ιότι εξ αυτής εξήρχοντο άνθρωποι µεµυηµένοι εις την Θείαν Αγάπην, η οποία πάντα στέγει, πάντα ελπίζει, πάντα υποµένει και η οποία ουδέποτε εκπίπτει». Η ηµέρα πανηγύρεως της Ιεράς Μονής συνδυάστηκε µε την εγκατάσταση του νέου ηγουµένου της, Μητροπολίτη Προύσης Ελπιδοφόρου, στον οποίο ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης, µετά τη θεία λειτουργία, επέδωσε και την ηγουµενική ράβδο. Αργότερα στην αίθουσα τελετών της Σχολής, ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης στην οµιλία του ευχήθηκε επιτυχία στη διακονία του νέου ηγουµένου και να «ίδη επί των ηµερών του επαναλειτουργούσαν την Σχολήν, τρέφουσαν και καταρτίζουσαν τα νοσσία αυτής δια του πνεύµατος και της µαρτυρίας και του ήθους της Μεγάλης Εκκλησίας». «Περιττόν να είπω, Παναγιώτατε ∆έσποτα, πόσον µικρός, ελάχιστος και ανάξιος αισθάνοµαι δια την θέσιν ταύτην αναλογιζόµενος τους προκατόχους µου επιφανείς και πολιούς Ιεράρχας του Θρόνου, λογίους άνδρας καυχήµατα του Γένους και αδάµαντας της Εκκλησίας, Σχολάρχας πλήρεις Πνεύµατος Αγίου και σοφίας της θύραθεν και της εκκλησιαστικής», είπε στην οµιλία του ο νέος ηγούµενος, Μητροπολίτης Προύσης. «Περιδιαβαίνων τους χώρους της Μονής, αναδιφών εις την σπανίαν Βιβλιοθήκην, προσευχόµενος εν τω Ναώ, ενδιαιτώµενος εις την τράπεζαν, παρατηρών τας ευγενείς µορφάς εις τους πίνακας της παρούσης αιθούσης, αισθάνοµαι βαρύ το φορτίον της πολυτίµου και
παλαιφάτου κληρονοµίας και κάµπτονται τα γόνατα εκ του δέους της ευθύνης». Στην πανηγυρική θεία λειτουργία παρέστησαν οι Μητροπολίτες Γερων ∆έρκων Απόστολος, Τρανουπόλεως Γερµανός, Πριγκιποννήσων Ιάκωβος, Μυριοφύτου και Περιστάσεως Ειρηναίος, Μύρων Χρυσόστοµος, Σασίµων Γεννάδιος, Ελσινκίου Αµβρόσιος, ο Γενικός Πρόξενος της Ελλάδος Νικόλαος Ματθιουδάκης, Άρχοντες του Θρόνου, καθηγητές και µαθητές από την Εκκλησιαστική Σχολή Χανίων Κρήτης και πλήθος πιστών. Στην οµιλία του, ο Οικουµενικ΄ςο πατριάρχης βαρθολοµαίος τόνισε µεταξύ άλλων: «Η τελεσθείσα σήµερον εόρτιος Θεία Λειτουργία εις το Ιερόν τούτο Σταυροπήγιον, το πηχθέν προ δώδεκα περίπου αιώνων υπό του σήµερον εορταζοµένου Ιερού Φωτίου του Οµολογητού, του Μεγάλου εκ των εν Αγίοις προκατόχων της ηµετέρας Μετριότητος εις τον πανίερον Αποστολικόν και Πατριαρχικόν Οικουµενικόν Θρόνον της Κωνσταντινουπόλεως, έχει ιδιαιτέραν εκκλησιολογικήν και θεολογικήν σηµασίαν, ως άλλωστε και πάσα τέλεσις της αναιµάκτου Θείας Ευχαριστίας, διότι παραπέµπει την µνήµην και την καρδίαν ηµών εις τον Γολγοθάν, και δη εις τον Χριστόν, ο Οποίος ανυψώθη και απέθανεν εν τω Σταυρώ, είτα δε Ανέστη δια την σωτηρίαν του κόσµου παντός. Εδώ, ο Πατριάρχης Κωνσταντινουπόλεως Φώτιος, ο Οµολογητής, ο και Καθηγητής του Πανεπιστηµίου αυτής, έπηξε τον Σταυρόν της Ιεράς ταύτης Μονής, η οποία έµελλε να αναδειχθή εις τούς µετέπειτα αιώνας, και ως Μονή και ως Σχολή φυτώριον εκκλησιαστικής φιλοµαθείας και παιδείας και καταρτίσεως στελεχών και κηρύκων του Σταυρού και της Αναστάσεως του Χριστού και της οµολογίας της εις Αυτόν πίστεως, ως υπήρξε και η προσωπική ζωη και η µαρτυρία του ιδίου: οµολογία της Ορθοδόξου πίστεως και προάσπισις αυτής έναντι των αιρέσεων. Σταυρός και Ανάστασις, αποτελούν το βίωµα της Ορθοδόξου ηµών Εκκλησίας και του αληθινού Χριστιανού, ο οποίος δέον να διακρίνεται δια το σταυροαναστάσιµον αυτού ήθος. «Ο Σταυρός είναι σηµείον αναγνωρίσεως του Χριστού και του αληθινού Χριστιανού. Η σταυροαναστάσιµος αύτη ατµόσφαιρα συναντάται εις την Ορθόδοξον Θεολογίαν, η οποία είναι εµπειρική δια της σταυρώσεως και ουχί στοχαστική η ηθικιστική. Επί πλέον, αυτό το σταυροαναστάσιµον ήθος συναντάται εις την µυστηριακήν και την πνευµατικήν ζωήν της Εκκλησίας µας: εις την µυστηριακήν, δοθέντος ότι τα µυστήρια τελειούνται δια της Χάριτος του Θεού, η οποία παρέχεται δια του τύπου και του σηµείου του Σταυρού• και εις
uΣελίδα 18
Προσφιλεῖς Ἀδελφοί καί Ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Σέ συνέχεια τῆς σειρᾶς σκέψεων ἐπί τοῦ θέµατος τῆς 41ης ∆ιετοῦς Κληρικολαϊκῆς Συνελεύσεώς µας Ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε καί µᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά φέρουµε καρπούς, ἄς ἀναλογισθοῦµε τό ἐρώτηµα, Πορευόµεθα πρός ποία κατεύθυνση; Γίνεται σαφές στήν Ἁγία Γραφή, στό κατά Ἰωάννην Εὐαγγέλιο 15:16 καθώς καί διάχυτα ἀντιληπτό σέ ὅλα τά Εὐαγγέλια καί τίς Ἐπιστολές, πώς ἀποστελλόµεθα ἀπό τόν Θεό στόν κόσµο µεταφέροντας τό µήνυµα τῆς θεϊκῆς ἀγάπης Του καί τῆς σωτηρίας ἡ ὁποία πραγµατοποιεῖται µέσῳ τοῦ Χριστοῦ. Μέ αὐτό τό µήνυµα ἀληθείας καί πίστεως, τό ὁποῖο µᾶς προσφέρεται µέσῳ τῆς λατρείας, τῆς διακονίας καί µέσῳ ὁλοκλήρου τοῦ φάσµατος τῆς ζωῆς µας, ἀποκαλύπτουµε τήν δύναµη καί τήν παρουσία τοῦ Χριστοῦ σέ ὅλες µας τίς πράξεις. Πρόκειται περί µαρτυρίας χάριτος καί λυτρώσεως σ’ἕναν κόσµο βεβαρηµένο ἀπό τήν ἁµαρτία καί τόν θάνατο. Πορευόµεθα πρός ποία κατεύθυνση; Πορευόµεθα πρός ὁλόκληρη τήν ἀνθρωπότητα, πρός τά σπίτια µας τά ἴδια, τίς κοινότητές µας, τούς χώρους ἐργασίας µας καί στίς ζωές πολλῶν ἄλλων οἱ ὁποῖοι ἀναζητοῦν τόν Θεό στήν προσπάθειά των ν’ ἀπαντήσουν ἐρωτήµατα καί ν’ ἀνακαλύψουν τό νόηµα τῆς ζωῆς ἐν µέσῳ σοβαρῶν διληµµάτων καί προκλήσεων. Ὀφείλουµε νά ἀναγνωρίσουµε ὅτι περιστοιχιζόµεθα ἀπό ἀνθρώπους µέ ἀνάγκες, ἡ κάλυψη τῶν ὁποίων µέ τήν παρουσία καί τήν ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ θά ἀποφέρει ἄφθονους πνευµατικούς καρπούς. Ὑπάρχουν συνάνθρωποί µας οἱ
ὁποῖοι χρειάζονται παρηγορία ὅταν πονοῦν καί ὑποφέρουν ἀπό κάποια σοβαρή ἀπώλεια. Ἄλλοι ἀγωνίζονται ἔναντι συναισθηµατικῶν καί πνευµατικῶν προκλήσεων, ἔχοντας ἀνάγκη σωστῆς καθοδηγήσεως καί δυνάµεως γιά ν’ ἀνταπεξέλθουν. Πολλοί ἔχουν παραπλανηθεῖ ἀπό τίς ἀπατηλές ἐπιρροές τοῦ κόσµου καί αὐτό πού χρειάζονται εἶναι ἡ φώτιση τῆς διανοίας καί τῆς καρδιᾶς των µέ τήν ἀλήθεια. Ἄλλοι πάλι ἀντιµετωπίζουν πνευµατικό ἤ φυσικό θάνατο, ἀναζητώντας ἐπιβεβαίωση τῆς σωτηρίας καί τῆς αἰώνιας ζωῆς. Ἄλλοι γύρω µας βιώνουν τήν ἀποτυχία καί ἀναζητοῦν ἕνα µήνυµα ἐλπίδος γιά ν’ ἀνασυντάξουν τή ζωή των. Ἄλλοι ζοῦν ἐν θλίψει καί χρειάζονται διαρκῆ χαρά, καί πολλοί ζοῦν αἰσθανόµενοι ἐνοχές καί χρειάζονται συγχώρηση. Ὅταν διαπιστώνουµε αὐτές τίς τεράστιες ἀνάγκες στίς ζωές τῶν συνανθρώπων µας οἱ ὁποῖοι εἶναι ὅλων τῶν ἡλικιῶν καί κοινωνικῶν στρωµάτων, κατανοοῦµε γιά ποιόν λόγο ὁ Θεός µᾶς διάλεξε νά πορευθοῦµε πρός αὐτούς. Οἱ ἀπαντήσεις στά ἐρωτήµατά των, οἱ στόχοι τῶν ἀναζητήσεών των, καί ἡ ἀνακούφιση ἀπό τά βάρη των βρίσκονται µόνο σ’ Ἐκεῖνον. Πάρα πολλοί ἄνθρωποι ἔχουν ἐρωτήµατα σχετικά µέ τίς βαθύτερες προκλήσεις τῆς ἀνθρώπινης ἐµπειρίας. Χρειάζονται βοήθεια, ἕναν τρόπο νά κατανοήσουν τή ζωή των καί τήν βεβαιότητα ὅτι αὐτή ἔχει πολύ µεγαλύτερο νόηµα καί σηµασία ἀπ’ αὐτή πού φαίνεται. Σέ ἀπάντηση τῶν ἀναγκῶν αὐτῶν, µᾶς στέλλει ὁ Θεός νά φέρουµε τούς καρπούς οἱ ὁποῖοι θά τούς ὁδηγήσουν σ’ Ἐκεῖνον. Ὁ καρπός τῆς
uΣελίδα 19
Α ΡΧ Ι Ε Π Ι Σ ΚΟΠ Ι Κ Η Ε Γ Κ Υ Κ Λ ΙΟΣ uΣελίδα 15 Οἱ δυσκολίες αὐτές ἐµπεριέχονται ἐπίσης καί σ’ ἕναν ἄλλον ἑορτασµό τῆς ἡµέρας αὐτῆς, δηλαδή στήν ἀναγνώριση καί τήν προσφορά στηρίξεώς µας στό προσφιλές µας Ἐθνικό Προσκύνηµα τοῦ Ἁγίου Φωτίου στήν πόλη Ἁγίου Αὐγουστίνου, Φλόριδας. Ἀπό τῆς ἱδρύσεώς του, τέσσερις δεκαετίες πρίν, τό Προσκύνηµα ἔχει προσφέρει µαρτυρία τῶν δυσκολιῶν ζωῆς καί πίστεως πολλῶν ἀνθρώπων οἱ ὁποῖοι µετανάστευσαν σ’ αὐτή τήν χώρα. Αὐτή ἡ κληρονοµιά καρτερικότητος τονίζεται ἀπό τήν τοποθεσία τοῦ Προσκυνήµατος, ὅπου πρωτοπόροι Ἕλληνες µετανάστες συναντήθηκαν καί λάτρευσαν τόν Θεό. Τό 1768 ἦλθαν στή χώρα αὐτή ἀναζητώντας συνθῆκες ἐλευθερίας καί εὐηµερίας. Ἀντ’ αὐτοῦ, στήν ἀρχή ἀντιµετώπισαν καταστά-σεις σκλαβιᾶς καί τεραστίων δυσκολιῶν. Τό Προσκύνηµά µας ἀποτελεῖ φόρο τιµῆς σ’αὐτούς τούς προγόνους πού ἐπέδειξαν θαυµαστό θάρρος καί πίστη καί θυσίασαν τόσο πολλά. Τό Προσκύνηµα τοῦ Ἁγίου Φωτίου εἶναι ἐπίσης τόπος στόν ὁποῖον διατηρεῖται ἡ ἱστορία µας ὡς Ἑλληνοαµερικανῶν καί τόπος πού προσφέρει µαρτυρία τοῦ ρόλου καί τῆς σπουδαιότητος τῆς Ὀρθοδόξου πίστεως καί Ἐκκλησίας µας. Μέσα ἀπό ἐκθέσεις, ἐκδόσεις καί εἰδικές
ἐκδηλώσεις, τό Προσκύνηµα µᾶς ἐνηµερώνει καί ὑπενθυµίζει τίς προκλήσεις καί εὐκαιρίες πού εἴχαµε στίς Ἡνωµένες Πολιτεῖες καθώς καί τίς συνδροµές πολλῶν Ἑλληνοαµερικανῶν στήν πολιτιστική, πολιτική καί θρησκευτική ζωή τῆς χώρας. Ἐπίσης, µέ τό ὡραῖο παρεκκλήσιό του καί τό πληροφοριακό ὑλικό πού προσφέρει σχετικά µέ τήν Ὀρθόδοξο πίστη µας, τό Προσκύνηµα ἀποτελεῖ µαρτυρία γιά χιλιάδες ἐπισκέπτες κάθε χρόνο τού γεγονότος ὅτι ἡ πίστη µας συνεχίζει νά χαρίζει σέ κάθε ἄτοµο τό Εὐαγγέλιο τῆς ἀγάπης καί τῆς σωτηρίας. Ἐκφράζοντας τήν ὑποστήριξή µας σ’ αὐτή τή ζωτική διακονία τῆς Ἐκκλησίας µας στήν Ἀµερική, ἄς προσευχηθοῦµε γιά τούς διευθυντές, τά µέλη τοῦ διοικητικοῦ συµβουλίου, τό προσωπικό καί τούς δωρητές τοῦ Ἐθνικοῦ Προσκυνήµατος τοῦ Ἁγίου Φωτίου. Εἶναι καλό, ἐπίσης, νά συνδεόµεθα µέ τήν κληρονοµιά µας αὐτή καί τήν µαρτυρία πίστεως διά γενναιοδώρων εἰσφορῶν καί διά τῆς συµµετοχῆς µας στά προγράµµατα καί στίς ἐκδηλώσεις του. Μέ τήν ὑποστήριξη τοῦ Προσκυνήµατος ὡς τόπου µνήµης καί προσευχῆς, θά διαφυλάξουµε στό διηνεκές τή µαρτυρία τῆς ζωῆς καί τῶν θυσιῶν αὐτῶν πού προηγήθηκαν καθώς καί τῆς ἐλπίδος καί ζωῆς πού ἐκπηγάζει ἀπό τόν Κύριό µας Ἰησοῦ Χριστό.
18
ΟΡΘΟ∆ΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ
ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΣ–ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 2012
ΛΟΓΟΣ ΚΑΤΗΧΗΤΗΡΙΟΣ ΕΠΙ ΤH EΝΑΡΞΕΙ ΤΗΣ ΑΓΙΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΜΕΓΑΛΗΣ ΤΕΣΣΑΡΑΚΟΣΤΗΣ † ΒΑΡΘΟΛΟΜΑΙΟΣ ΕΛΕΩ ΘΕΟΥ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΟΣ ΚΩΝΣΤΑΝΤΙΝΟΥΠΟΛΕΩΣ – ΝΕΑΣ ΡΩΜΗΣ ΚΑΙ ΟΙΚΟΥΜΕΝΙΚΟΣ ΠΑΤΡΙΑΡΧΗΣ ΠΑΝΤΙ Τῼ ΠΛΗΡΩΜΑΤΙ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ, ΧΑΡΙΣ ΕΙΗ ΚΑΙ ΕΙΡΗΝΗ ΠΑΡΑ ΤΟΥ ΣΩΤΗΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΚΥΡΙΟΥ ΗΜΩΝ ΙΗΣΟΥ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥ, ΠΑΡ’ ΗΜΩΝ ∆Ε ΕΥΧΗ, ΕΥΛΟΓΙΑ ΚΑΙ ΣΥΓΧΩΡΗΣΙΣ
«Περιχαρῶς δεξώµεθα πιστοί, τὸ θεόπνευστον διάγγελµα τῆς νηστείας». Ἀγαπητοὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀδελφοὶ καὶ τέκνα ἐν Κυρίῳ, Κατὰ τὸν τελευταῖον καιρὸν παρατηρεῖται µία ἔξαρσις ἀνησυχιῶν. Πολλὰ προβλήµατα ἀναφύονται. Ὁ κόσµος ὑποφέρει καὶ ζητεῖ βοήθειαν. ∆ιερχόµεθα πράγµατι µίαν γενικωτέραν δοκιµασίαν. Ἄλλοι τὴν ὀνοµάζουν ὕφεσιν οἰκονοµικήν, ἄλλοι κρίσιν πολιτικήν. ∆ι᾿ ἡµᾶς εἶναι ἐκτροπὴ πνευµατική. Καὶ ὑπάρχει θεραπεία. Πολλαὶ λύσεις δίδονται καὶ ἀπόψεις ἀκούγονται. Ἀλλὰ τὰ προβλήµατα παραµένουν. Ὁ ἄνθρωπος αἰσθάνεται ἐγκαταλελειµµένος καὶ µόνος. Ἀγνοεῖται ἡ βαθυτέρα φύσις του. Παραµένει εἰς τὴν κατήφειαν τῆς ἀσαφείας καὶ τῆς ἀπογνώσεως. Αἱ προτεινόµεναι λύσεις, ὁποιανδήποτε κατεύθυνσιν ἢ ἔκβασιν καὶ ἂν ἔχουν, δὲν λυτρώνουν τὸν ἄνθρωπον, διότι ἐκ προοιµίου τὸν ἀφήνουν δέσµιον τῆς φθορᾶς καὶ τοῦ θανάτου. Ἡ Ἐκκλησία εἶναι ὁ Θεάνθρωπος Κύριος, ὁ ἐλευθερωτὴς τῶν ψυχῶν ἡµῶν. Εἰσερχόµενος ὁ ἄνθρωπος εἰς τὸν χῶρον τῆς Ἐκκλησίας εἰσέρχεται εἰς τὸ κλῖµα τῆς θείας παρακλήσεως, τῆς συµφιλιώσεως τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καὶ τῆς γῆς. Ἔρχεται εἰς τὰ ἴδια. Ἠρεµεῖ τὸ πνεῦµα του. Εὑρίσκει ἕν οὐράνιον κάλλος καὶ µίαν ὡριµότητα πνευµατικὴν «εὐωδίας ἐνθέου πληροῦσαν πέρατα κόσµου».Ἡ Ἐκκλησία γνωρίζει ὅλα ὅσα ὑποφέροµεν. Καὶ ἔχει τὴν δύναµιν νὰ µᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃ. Μᾶς καλεῖ εἰς µετάνοιαν. ∆ὲν ὡραιοποιεῖ τὸ ψεῦδος οὔτε ἀποκρύπτει τὰ δεινά. Λέγει ὅλην τὴν ἀλήθειαν. Καὶ προτρέπει τὸν ἄνθρωπον νὰ ἀντικρύσῃ τὴν πραγµατικότητα ὡς ἔχει. Νὰ συνειδητοποιήσωµεν ὅτι εἴµεθα γῆ καὶ σποδός. Εἰς τὸν Μέγαν Κανόνα τοῦ Ἁγίου Ἀνδρέου γίνεται λόγος διὰ τὰ δάκρυα τῆς µετανοίας καὶ τὸν κλαυθµὸν τοῦ πένθους, τὸν πόνον τῶν τραυµάτων. Ἀλλὰ ἀκολουθεῖ ἡ ἀνάπαυσις τῆς ψυχῆς καὶ ἡ ὑγεία τοῦ πνεύµατος. Ὑπάρχει ὁ Πλάστης καὶ Σωτὴρ ἡµῶν. Ἐκεῖνος διὰ τὸ πλῆθος τοῦ ἐλέους Του µᾶς ἐτοποθέτησεν εἰς τὸ µεθόριον τῆς ἀφθαρσίας καὶ τῆς θνητότητος. ∆ὲν µᾶς ἐγκατέλειψεν. Ἦλθε καὶ µᾶς ἔσωσε. Κατέλυσε τῷ Σταυρῷ Του τὸν θάνατον. Ἐχαρίσατο ἡµῖν τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν τῆς σαρκός. Ἐφ᾿ ὅσον εἴµεθα σύµφυτοι τοῦ Χριστοῦ, διατὶ ταρασσόµεθα µαταίως; ∆ιατὶ δὲν προστρέχοµεν εἰς Αὐτόν; Ἡ Ἐκκλησία δὲν σχολιάζει τὴν φθορὰν οὔτε µᾶς ἐγκαταλείπει εἰς αὐτήν. Γνωρίζει τὰς βαθυτέρας ἐφέσεις τοῦ ἀνθρώπου καὶ ἔρχεται ὡς ἀρωγὸς καὶ λυτρωτὴς ἡµῶν. Ἔχοµεν ἀνάγκην τῆς τροφῆς. Ἀλλ᾿ «οὐκ ἐπ᾿ἄρτῳ µόνῳ ζήσεται ἄνθρωπος» (Ματθ. δ΄ 4). ῎Εχοµεν ἀνάγκην τῆς πνευµατικῆς κατανοήσεως, ἀλλὰ δὲν εἴµεθα ἀσώµατοι. Εἰς τὴν Ἐκκλησίαν εὑρίσκοµεν τὸ πλήρωµα τῆς ζωῆς καὶ τῆς κατανοήσεως ὡς θεανθρωπίνην ἰσορροπίαν. Μακρὰν τοῦ Θεοῦ ὁ ἄνθρωπος ἐξαχρειοῦται καὶ διαφθείρεται. Ἐκεῖ ὅπου ἀφθονοῦν τὰ ὑλικὰ ἀγαθὰ καὶ θεοποιεῖται ἡ σπατάλη, εὐδοκιµοῦν οἱ πειρασµοὶ τῶν σκανδάλων καὶ ἡ σύγχυσις τῆς σκοτώσεως. Ἐκεῖ ὅπου µὲ δέος ζῇ ὁ ἄνθρωπος καὶ δέχεται τὰ πάντα µὲ εὐχαριστίαν καὶ εὐγνωµοσύνην, ὅλα ἁγιάζονται. Τὸ ὀλίγον εὐλογεῖται ὡς ἀρκετόν, καὶ τὸ φθαρτὸν ἐνδύεται τὴν αἴγλην τῆς ἀφθαρσίας. Ἀπολαµβάνει ὁ ἄνθρωπος τὸ πρόσκαιρον ὡς δῶρον Θεοῦ. Καὶ τρέφεται µὲ τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τῆς µελλούσης ζωῆς ἀπὸ σήµερον. Ὄχι µόνον λύνονται τὰ προβλήµατα, ἀλλὰ καὶ οἱ πόνοι τῶν δοκιµασιῶν µεταβάλλονται εἰς δύναµιν ζωῆς καὶ ἀφορµὴν δοξολογίας. Ὅταν αὐτὸ συµβῇ ἐντὸς ἡµῶν· ὅταν ὁ ἄνθρωπος εὑρίσκῃ τὴν προσωπικήν του ἀνάπαυσιν καὶ σωτηρίαν διὰ τῆς παρακαταθέσεως τῶν πάντων Χριστῷ τῷ Θεῷ, τότε φωτίζεται ὁ νοῦς του. Γνωρίζει τὸν ἑαυτόν του καὶ τὸν κόσµον ὅλον. Ἔχει ἐµπιστοσύνην εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ ∆υνατοῦ. Αὐτὸ τὸ γεγονὸς τὸν ἴδιον τὸν πιστὸν στηρίζει. Καὶ µεταδίδεται δι᾿ ἀοράτου ἀκτινοβολίας ὡς ἐνίσχυσις πρὸς ὅλους τοὺς πεινῶντας καὶ διψῶντας τὴν ἀλήθειαν. Ὁ κόσµος ὅλος ἔχει ἀνάγκην τῆς σωτηρίας ἀπὸ τὸν ∆ηµιουργὸν καὶ Πλάστην του. Ὁ κόσµος ὅλος ἔχει ἀνάγκην ἀπὸ τὴν παρουσίαν τῆς πίστεως καὶ τὴν κοινωνίαν τῶν Ἁγίων. Ἂς εὐχαριστήσωµεν τὸν Κύριον καὶ Θεὸν ἡµῶν δι᾿ ὅλας τὰς εὐεργεσίας Του, καὶ διὰ τὴν παροῦσαν περίοδον τῆς Ἁγίας Τεσσαρακοστῆς. Ἰδοὺ καιρὸς εὐπρόσδεκτος, ἰδοὺ καιρὸς µετανοίας. Εἴθε νὰ διαπλεύσωµεν τὸ τῆς Νηστείας πέλαγος διὰ συντριβῆς καὶ ἐξοµολογήσεως, ὥστε νὰ φθάσωµεν εἰς τὴν ἄληκτον χαρὰν τῆς Ἀναστάσεως τοῦ Κυρίου καὶ Θεοῦ καὶ Σωτῆρος ἡµῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, εἰς τὸν Ὁποῖον πρέπει πᾶσα δόξα, τιµὴ καὶ προσκύνησις εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων. Ἀµήν.
∆ιάπυρος πρός Θεόν εὐχέτης πάντων ὑµῶν
Ἁγ ί α κ αὶ Μεγά λη Τεσσα ρ ακοστὴ , βιβ
† Ὁ Κωνσταντινουπόλεως Βαρθολοµαίος
“Ουδείς έχει να φοβηθεί από την επαναλειτουργία της Σχολής της Χάλκης” uΣελίδα 17 την πνευµατικήν ζωήν, ως θυσία και προσφορά, ως κένωσις και υπέρβασις εν Χριστώ των αισθήσεων και των δερµατίνων χιτώνων της φθοράς και της θνητότητος... «Ο σπόρος της εκκλησιαστικής φιλοµαθείας ο οποίος ενυπήρχεν εις την ίδρυσιν της Μονής ταύτης, εµφυτευθείς υπό του ανιδρυτού αυτής Ιερού Φωτίου, ανεβλάστησεν εις το γόνιµον έδαφος αυτής και εκαρποφόρησεν εν έτει 1844 ότε ιδρύθη υπό ενός ετέρου εκ των προκατόχων ηµών, του Πατριάρχου Γερµανού του ∆´, το ιερόν “φυτώριον των παρ ἡµῖν εκκλησιαστικών και θεολογικών γραµµάτων”, η παγκοίνως γνωστή Ιερά Θεολογική Σχολή της Χάλκης, η οποία µέχρι της δια λόγους “τυπικούς” εν έτει 1971 απαγορεύσεως της λειτουργίας της, προσέφερεν ανεκτιµήτους υπηρεσίας και διακονίαν εις τον Οικουµενικόν Θρόνον, εις την Ορθοδοξίαν, εις τον Χριστιανισµόν, εις τα Ιερά Γράµµατα και εις την εν γένει παιδείαν των καθ ἡµᾶς κάτω τούτων χρόνων. «∆υστυχώς, αιφνιδίως, προ τεσσαράκοντα ετών εχαρακτηρίσθη και αύτη, ως γνωστόν, υπό του Υπουργείου Παιδείας της Χώρας ηµών ως Ανωτάτη Σχολή και δι αὐτό εκλείσθη. Εν τούτοις, η Σχολή αυτή δεν είχεν ιδρυθή δυνάµει της τότε ισχυούσης σχετικής νοµοθεσίας, αλλά ελειτούργει από του 1844 ως Μειονοτική Θρησκευτική και
κυρίως Ιερατική (κατά τινα τρόπον επαγγελµατική) Σχολή, και ως τοιαύτη ανεγνωρίζετο υπό των Κρατικών Αρχών, εκαλύπτετο δε η λειτουργία αυτής υπό των άρθρων 40 και 41 της Συνθήκης της Λωζάννης δια των προβλέψεων της οποίας ορίζεται ότι οι πολίται της Χώρας ταύτης, οι ανήκοντες εις µη µουσουλµανικάς µειονότητας, έχουν ίσον δικαίωµα να συνιστούν, διευθύνουν και εποπτεύουν, ιδίαις δαπάναις, τοιαύτας σχολάς, και ότι η Τουρκία αναλαµβάνει την υποχρέωσιν όπως αι διατάξεις αύται της Συνθήκης της Λωζάννης αναγνωρισθούν ως θεµελιώδεις νόµοι του Τουρκικού Κράτους και όπως ουδείς νόµος η κανονισµός η επίσηµός τις πράξις διατελώσιν εν αντιφάσει προς τας διατάξεις ταύτας η κατισχύωσιν αυτών. Εν τούτοις, αι εγχώριοι διατάξεις κατίσχυσαν αυτών και ούτως αι πύλαι της Σχολής παραµένουν κεκλεισµέναι και αυτή σιωπώσα. Και έτσι µία Ορθόδοξος Θεολογική Σχολή εκλείσθη κατά τρόπον ανορθόδοξον! «Το Οικουµενικόν Πατριαρχείον, έκτοτε, δια των προκατόχων ηµών Πατριαρχών Αθηναγόρου και ∆ηµητρίου, ιδιαιτέρως όµως, επιτραπήτω ηµίν, επί της εικοσαετούς και πλέον ταπεινής Πατριαρχικής διακονίας ηµών, προέβαλλε πάντοτε προς τας Τουρκικάς αρχάς δια σειράς Μνηµονίων και Πατριαρχικών Γραµµάτων, αλλά και προς πάσαν άλλην διεθνή κρατικήν ή µη οργάνωσιν, το δίκαιον
αίτηµα της επαναλειτουργίας της Σχολής, επιζητούν την επανόρθωσιν της αδικίας. Ελπίζεται πλέον ότι η φιλόλαος Κυβέρνησις της Τουρκίας, υπό την σθεναράν και ρηξικέλευθον ηγεσίαν του Πρωθυπουργού αυτής κ. Ρετζέπ Ταγίπ Ερντογάν, µελετά υπευθύνως και θετικώς την επίλυσιν του ζητήµατος, έχουσα υπ ὄψει το διεθνώς κατωχυρωµένον ατοµικόν δικαίωµα του ανθρώπου, και ιδίως των µειονοτήτων, να διατηρούν θρησκευτικά σχολεία διδάσκοντα την θρησκείαν αυτών. Το πρόβληµα της Θεολογικής Σχολής Χαλκης είναι ήδη αµέσως συνυφασµένον προς τα γενικώτερα προβλήµατά της Μειονότητός µας εν Τουρκία, ένια των οποίων ερρυθµίσθησαν ήδη υπό της Κυβερνήσεως, προς την οποίαν και από της θέσεως ταύτης εκφράζοµεν ευχαριστίας... Ναι! αναµένοµεν την ηµέραν αυτήν, διότι, τον Γολγοθάν, τον κάθε Γολγοθάν, το κάθε Πραιτώριον, την πάσαν αδικίαν ακολουθεί η Ανάστασις. Το Καθολικόν της Ιεράς ταύτης Μονής αναµένει τας προσευχάς των σπουδαστών, τα βιβλία εις την Βιβλιοθήκην αναµένουν τας χείρας, αι οποίαι θα τα τοποθετήσουν επί των αναγνωστηρίων προς απορρόφησιν εξ αυτών της αποτεθησαυρισµένης Πατερικής και θύραθεν γνώσεως. Αι αίθουσαι διδασκαλίας ανυποµονούν να ακούσουν και πάλιν την φωνήν των διδασκόντων και των ακροωµένων τας απορίας και ερωτήσεις. Οι διάδροµοι διερωτώνται διατί έπαυσαν
να ηχούν επ αὐτῶν τα βήµατα των νέων, των δι αὐτῶν πορευοµένων προς την άνωθεν σοφίαν την πλήρη χάριτος και αληθείας. Οι κήποι προσφέρουν την ανθηφορίαν των, αλλ οὔτε νεανικαί ούτε πρεσβυτικαί χείρες θωπεύουν τα πολύχρωµα και ευώδη άνθη. Και ταύτα πάντα άνευ οφέλους τινός δια την χώραν, δια την κοινωνίαν. Αντιθέτως! Και η µεν και η δε βλάπτονται, ζηµιούνται εκ της αδίκου σιωπής. Εαν οι νόµοι ηρµηνεύοντο µετά πλείονος ευρύτητος πνεύµατος, πόσον ωραιοτέρα θα ήτο η ζωη των ανθρώπων! Η αληθής φύσις της Σχολής µας είναι ότι αύτη είναι αληθής σχολή µυήσεως εις τον πνευµατικόν κόσµον της αµωµήτου Ορθοδόξου πίστεώς µας, εις τον τρόπον ενεργείας της Θείας Χαριτος, εις τον τρόπον προσευχής, εις τον τρόπον καταπολεµήσεως του κακού δια του αγαθού, εις τον τρόπον προσεγγίσεως Θεού και ανθρώπων εν αγάπη και ειρήνη και αληθεία. Ουδείς έχει να φοβηθή από την λειτουργίαν µιας τοιαύτης Σ χ ο λ η ς. ∆ιότι εξ αυτής εξήρχοντο άνθρωποι µεµυηµένοι εις την Θείαν Αγάπην άνθρωποι ωλοκληρωµένοι, αγαθοποιοί, ειρηνοποιοί, φιλάνθρωποι, φιλοπρόοδοι, φίλεργοι, φιλοµαθείς, φίλοι του Θεού και φίλοι των ανθρώπων. Το ήθος και το εκκλησιαστικόν φρόνηµα και η δηµιουργική δραστηριότης των αποφοίτων της Σχολής ηµών συνιστούν αξιόπιστον µαρτυρίαν περί των αποτελεσµάτων του εκπαιδευτικού και αµιγώς πνευµατικού και λειτουργικού προγράµµατός της», σηµείωσε µεταξύ άλλων ο Οικουµενικός Πατριάρχης.
FEB–MARCH 2012 ΦΕΒΡΟΥΑΡΙΟΣ – ΜΑΡΤΙΟΣ 2012
41 Κληρικολαϊκή Συνέλευση η
Θέμα: Ὁ Θεός μᾶς διάλεξε καί μᾶς ὥρισε νά πορευθοῦμε καί νά φέρουμε καρπούς uΣελίδα 17 παρηγορίας καί τῆς σοφίας, τῆς ἀληθείας καί τῆς σωτηρίας, τῆς ἐλπίδος καί τῆς χαρᾶς, τῆς ἀγάπης καί τῆς συγχωρήσεως, θά παραχθεῖ στίς ζωές ἐκείνων οἱ ὁποῖοι θά δεχθοῦν τόν Θεό µέ πίστη. Πρέπει νά πορευθοῦµε καί νά καταστοῦµε ὁµολογητές Του. Αὐτό συνεπάγεται ὅτι θά ἀναζητήσουµε τούς ἀνθρώπους οἱ ὁποῖοι ἔχουν ἀνάγκη. Θά ἀποκτήσουµε ἀποστολική διάθεση γνωρίζοντας ὅτι ἀποστελλόµεθα γιά νά ἐκπληρώσουµε κάποιο ἔργο, εὐλογηµένοι µέ τά δῶρα πού χρειαζόµεθα καί δυναµωµένοι ἀπό τό Ἅγιο Πνεῦµα τό ὁποῖο θά καθοδηγήσει τούς λόγους καί τίς πράξεις µας. Ὅταν συναντοῦµε τίς ἀνάγκες τῶν ἄλλων, θά µιµηθοῦµε τό παράδειγµα τοῦ Κυρίου µας καί θά ἐπιδείξουµε συµπόνοια, χωρίς νά σκεπτόµεθα τόν ἑαυτόν µας µέ τρόπο ἐγωϊστικό, ἀλλά ἐπιδεικνύοντας γνήσιο ἐνδιαφέρον καί φροντίδα γιά τήν εὐηµερία τῶν ἄλλων. Ἐπιπλέον, ὅταν πορευθοῦµε καί ἀνακαλύψουµε ἀνθρώπους πού παλεύουν ἐν µέσῳ προκλήσεων, θά δεσµευθοῦµε νά τούς βοηθήσουµε. Ὁ καρπός δέν παράγεται χωρίς καλλιέργεια. Ὁ πνευµατικός καρπός γιά νά εὐδοκιµήσει χρειάζεται τό χρόνο µας, τίς θυσίες µας καί τήν σκληρή ἐργασία µας - ἱερή ἐργασία ἡ ὁποία θά παραγάγει ἄφθονες καί αἰώνιες εὐλογίες τόσο στούς ἄλλους ὅσο καί στίς ζωές µας ἀλλά καί στίς κοινότητες τῆς πίστεώς µας. Ὅταν ὑπακοῦµε στό κάλεσµα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὅταν ἀναγνωρίζουµε ὅτι ἔχουµε ἐπιλεγεῖ καί ὡρισθεῖ ἀπό Ἐκεῖνον γιά τήν ἐπιτέλεση ἱερᾶς ἀποστολῆς, ὅταν ἀνταποκρινόµεθα σ’ Ἐκεῖνον καί πορευόµεθα πρός τούς ἀνθρώπους πού ἔχουν ἀνάγκη νά ἀκούσουν, νά δοῦν καί νά λάβουν τή χάρη Του, τότε ὁ καρπός θά εἶναι µεταµορφωµένη ζωή, ἀναζήτηση νέων στόχων, ἀνακάλυψη τοῦ µηνύµατος τῆς ζωῆς, καί αἰώνια ζωή καί κοινωνία µέ τόν Θεό.
ΟΡΘΟ∆ΟΞΟΣ ΠΑΡΑΤΗΡΗΤΗΣ
19
Α Ρ Χ Ι Ε Π Ι Σ ΚΟΠ Ι Κ Η Ε Γ Κ Υ Κ Λ ΙΟΣ
Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Τεσσαρακοστή Προσφιλεῖς Ἀδελφοί καί Ἀδελφές ἐν Χριστῷ, Καθώς ἀρχίζει ἡ περίοδος τῆς Ἁγίας καί Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς, προσµέ-νουµε τίς εὐλογίες τίς ὁποῖες θά λάβουµε ἀπό τήν κοινωνία µας µέ τόν Χριστό µέσῳ τῶν ἱερῶν ἀκολουθιῶν, ἑορτασµῶν καί τηρήσεως τῶν κανόνων πρακτικῆς τῆς Ὀρθο-δόξου Χριστιανικῆς πίστεώς µας. Ξεκινοῦµε µία διαδροµή πίστεως µέ προορισµό τή χαρά τοῦ Πάσχα, γνωρίζοντας ὅτι µᾶς περιµένει ἄφθονος πνευµατικός θησαυρός ἐάν ἐπιδοθοῦµε στήν ἐντατικοποίηση τῆς προσευχῆς καί τῆς νηστείας καί τῆς προσφορᾶς διακονίας στούς ἄλλους µέ πνεῦµα ἀγάπης. Κατά τήν διάρκεια τοῦ Τριωδίου ἔχουµε ἀρχίσει νά προετοιµάζουµε τίς καρδιές µας γιά τήν εἴσοδο τῆς Ἁγίας καί Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς καί γιά τήν περίοδο τῆς µετανοίας καί συγχωρήσεως. Ἡ ἀποφασιστικότητά µας στό ν’ ἀκολου-θήσουµε τίς ἱερές ἀκολουθίες καί νά πειθαρχήσουµε στίς ἱερές πρακτικές τῆς Ἁγίας καί Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς εἶναι δυνατή, ἀλλά συνειδητοποιοῦµε ταυτόχρονα ὅτι ἀντιµετωπίζουµε πολλές προκλήσεις. Καθώς διατρέχουµε τήν περίοδο αὐτή, ἀντιλαµβανόµεθα τό πλῆθος τῶν δυνατοτήτων πού µᾶς προσφέρει ἡ σχέση µας µέ τόν Θεό. Μέσα στίς ἑπόµενες ἡµέρες, θά ἔχουµε νά ἐκπληρώσουµε εὐθῦνες καί ὑπο-χρεώσεις. Ἔχουµε τήν οἰκογένειά µας πού ἐνδέχεται νά χρειάζεται φροντίδα καί στήριξη. Κάθε µέρα θά ἔχουµε πράγµατα νά φροντίσουµε, ἐργασία νά ἐκπληρώ-σουµε καί ὑποχρεώσεις νά διευθετήσουµε. Ἐπί πλέον, γνωρίζουµε ὅτι θά προκύψουν νέες προκλήσεις καί νέες πιεστικές καταστάσεις θά ἐµφανισθοῦν πού θά καταστή-σουν τήν πορεία µας δύσκολη. Ἡ ἀποφασιστικότητά µας νά δυναµώσουµε τήν πίστη µας µέσῳ τῆς Ἁγίας καί Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς θά δοκιµασθῆ. Πολλοί περισπαµοί θά ἀποπειραθοῦν νά τραβήξουν τήν προσοχή τῶν καρδιῶν καί τῶν διανοιῶν µας προκαλώντας µας νά παραµείνουµε πιστοί στήν ἀφοσίωσή µας στήν προσπάθειά µας γιά βαθύτερη ἐπικοινωνία µέ τόν Θεό. Μέσα στήν καθηµερινή µας ζωή καί στή διάρκεια αὐτῆς τῆς ἱερῆς καί κατα-νυκτικῆς περιόδου, πρέπει νά ὑπενθυµίζουµε στόν ἑαυτό µας µέσῳ τῆς προσευχῆς καί τῆς σκέψεως ὅτι δέν πορευόµεθα σ’ αὐτή τήν διαδροµή µόνοι µας. Οἱ ἱερές ἀκολουθίες πού παρακολουθοῦµε εἶναι ὡραῖες καί ἱερές εὐκαιρίες λατρείας µέ τήν παρουσία τοῦ Χριστοῦ καί τήν συµµετοχή τῶν ἀδελφῶν µας. Οἱ πρακτικές τῆς νηστείας καί τῆς φιλανθρωπίας εἶναι πρακτικές χάριτος ἡ ὁποία µᾶς συνδέει µέ τήν ἀγάπη τοῦ Θεοῦ καί ἐπιτρέπει στήν ἀγάπη αὐτή νά µᾶς µεταµορφώνει καί νά µεταδίδεται ἀπό ἐµᾶς στούς ἄλλους. Ἔτσι, ἡ ἀποφασιστικότητα καί ἡ ἀφοσίωσή µας στήν Ἁγία καί Μεγάλη Τεσσαρακοστή πρέπει νά ἐνισχύεται γνωρίζοντας ὅτι ἡ παρουσία τοῦ Θεοῦ καί ἡ χάρη Του εἶναι πάντοτε µαζί µας. Κάνουµε αὐτή τήν πορεία ἐν Χριστῷ. Ἐκεῖνος εἶναι ἡ πηγή τῆς πνευµατικῆς δυνάµεως τήν ὁποία χρειαζόµεθα γιά νά ἑστιάζουµε τήν προσοχή µας µόνιµα στή σηµασία αὐτῆς τῆς περιόδου. Ἐπίσης, ὁ Χριστός εἶναι καί ὁ προορισµός µας. Καθώς ξεκινοῦµε µαζί αὐτή τήν πορεία, σᾶς προτρέπω νά ἀτενίζετε πάντοτε εἰς τόν τήν πίστεως ἀρχηγόν καί τελειωτήν Ἰησοῦν (Ἑβρ. 12:2). Ἡ κάθε νέα ἡµέρα ἄς ἐπισφραγίζῃ τήν ἀπόφασή σας γιά συµµετοχή στίς ἱερές ἀκολουθίες καί πρακτικές τῆς Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστῆς καθώς ζῆτε µέσα στήν παρουσία τοῦ Χριστοῦ καί βιώνετε τήν ἀγάπη Του γιά σᾶς. Ἄς µή λησµονοῦµε, ἐπίσης, ὅτι ἀκολουθώντας αὐτή τήν πορεία µαζί Του, µέσῳ τῆς ἐξετάσεως τῆς ψυχῆς µας, τῆς αὐταπαρνήσεως καί τῆς ὑπακοῆς στό θέληµα τοῦ Θεοῦ, καί µέσῳ τῆς Σταυρώσεώς Του, θά βρεθοῦµε µαζί µέ τόν Κύριό µας στό ἔνδοξο φῶς καί στή ζωή τῆς Ἀναστάσεώς Του. Μέ πατρική ἐν Χριστῷ ἀγάπη, † ὁ Ἀρχιεπίσκοπος Ἀµερικῆς ∆ηµήτριος
20
FEB–MARCH 2012
Cultural Televangelism u u from page 9
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS Offered to Communities, Organizations, Church festivals and all other functions. Kontos Foods famous for its POCKET-LESS PITA, is proud to present its original products once again.
Fillo Kataifi
Spanakopita Tyropita
Delicious, traditional products made
with the highest quality ingredients
Courteous Service • WE SHIP EVERYWHERE in the US & CANADA
Exclusive Distributor for USA & CANADA of TRIKOMITES HALOUMI KONTOS FOODS, INC • EVRIPIDES KONTOS, President
BOX 628, PATERSON, NJ 07544 (973) 278-2800 • Fax: (973) 278-7943
DO YOU LIKE THE ORTHODOX OBSERVER? HAVE YOU SOMETHING TO SUGGEST? SEND US A FEW LINES...
8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075
Fax:(212) 774-0239 E-mail: observer@goarch.org
My fellow priests can relay such stories from their own experiences in parish life. Yet when the struggles, suffering and pains of life hit, when darkness and desperation affects us, when a relationship abruptly ends and when death visits our family, where do we get the strength? The strength comes from above; from the beams of love of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is present in our midst, through His Holy Church. It is He who said, “Where two or three are gathered together in My Name, I am there in the midst of them.” (Matt. 18:20) It is in the intimacy of liturgical worship that the God–Man Jesus the Savior says to us, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and
learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your soul.” (Matt. 11:28-29) St. John Chrysostom, my favorite among the saints, sums it up best. “Nothing makes my life so full of joy as the sight of you flocking so joyfully to the Church. In the Church the joyful will preserve their joy; in the Church the disconsolate will find courage; in the Church the troubled will become happy; in the Church the spiritually weary will find rest; in the Church, refreshment beckons to the heavy laden.”To these eternal truths we say, “Amen”. Fr. Bakas is dean of St. Sophia Cathedral, Los Angeles, and a faculty member of Loyola Marymount University, School of Theology.
Albania School Serves Missionary Effort for 10 Years u u from page 11 middle school students Our after-school catechism club is called “Spiritual Journey” and is open to all the students once a week. Many of those who sign up are from Orthodox backgrounds but we also have a number of students from Catholic, Muslim, and even atheist families. We teach the basic beliefs and traditions of the Orthodox Church with catechism books, crafts, songs, field trips, etc. Two years ago, I started teaching the older students from a book which was written by Archbishop Anastasios and recently translated by my husband into Albanian. The book, Divine Messages, is written for the catechist, so I am creating an accompanying activity book with small paper crafts for each lesson for the students. Although formal persecution of faith has ended in Albania, there continue to be frequent attacks on the Church in the media. Sometimes they try to make the people feel that it is not really Albanian to be Orthodox. To combat this I try whenever possible to show the children that Orthodoxy has been around a long time in Albania and is an integral part of its history and culture. To this purpose, we invited the students on a trip to Ardenica Monastery this spring. This 13th century monastery is dedicated to the Nativity of the Theotokos and the walls of the church are covered in icons painted by famous Albanian iconographers. The national hero George Kastrioti Skanderbeg (1405–1468) was even married in a chapel at this monastery. Every so often God grants us a glimpse of the fruit of our efforts. At the end of January, our students have first semester exams. One day Elena, a recently baptized
6th grader, ran up to me breathless. “I found you!” she exclaimed. “Teacher, there’s St. Basil, St. Gregory, and who’s the third?” “Oh, the Three Hierarchs; St. John Chrysostom is the other one,” I replied. “Why?” “Well we’re about to have an exam and I remember last year in Spiritual Journey club you told us they were the protectors of students and we should pray to them for help at school! Thanks!” and she ran off. I was delighted to see something we discussed last year had stuck and she was actually putting it into practice. For more information contact: Mr. Alex Goodwin Communications Director Orthodox Christian Mission Center 1-877-463-6784 OCMC Missionary Georgia Gilman Bendo has been serving in Albania for the past seven years. Her ministry work focuses on teaching English at the Protagonists School in Tirana and offering after-school catechism to young people.
St. Photios Trustees’ Meeting u u from page 2 and office” by promoting its work and encouraging support. Trustee Rose Papanikolas–McGrath displayed a laminated promotional poster for parishes to place on their bulletin boards. Vannette Carousis presented a report on contributors for the Wall of Tribute in the exhibit hall. Individuals and organizations can have their names included on the wall for a minimum donation of $1,000. Joanne Stavrakas discussed the Friends of St. Photios fundraising effort.
She cited the support of Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey who has sent letters to each of his parishes urging them to befriend the Shrine, and who absorbed the printing and mailing costs associated with the promotion. In his comments to the trustees, Archbishop Demetrios noted that “The Shrine is a tremendous asset. It means a place of pilgrimage where people have to come for something sacred and holy. It vibrantly radiates the sacred and holy; something needed today in our world. Thank you for being the witness for such a work and mission.”
FEB–MARCH 2012
Leadership 100
21
Leadership 100 Conference Installs New Chairman, Approves Grants by George Schira
MANALAPAN, Fla. – Charles H. Cotros of Memphis, Tenn. was inaugurated as the chairman of Leadership 100 on Feb.11 at the Grand Banquet of the 28-year-old national charitable organization, which concluded its 21st annual Conference at The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach hotel. He served as vice chairman for the past two years under Constantine G. Caras, of Greenville, Del., who completed his term as chairman but who remains a member of the executive committee. Cotros, who has served as a director of Allied Waste Industries Inc. of Phoenix, since July 2004 and as interim chief executive officer and board chairman from October 2004 through 2007, began his career in 1960 with Tri-State General Food Supply (Tri-State), which merged with SYSCO in 1974 where he served in various positions prior to being elected chief operating officer in 1995, president in 1999, and chief executive officer and chairman of the board of directors in 2000. He served on the board of Sysco from 1986 until his retirement in 2003. A graduate of Christian Brothers College in Memphis and Tulane University in New Orleans, he is married to the former Constance (Connie) Pappas. The couple has two daughters, one son, and 11 grandchildren. Active in Greek Orthodox parishes in Houston, Texas and Memphis, Cotros is an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. George S. Tsandikos of New York, took office as vice chairman of Leadership 100, having served as treasurer. He has
Dimitris Panagos photo
Charles H. Cotros addresses the Leadership 100 members as outgoing Chairman Constantine Caras, Dr. Maria Caras and Archbishop Demetrios look on.
been managing director of Rockefeller & Company in New York since 2003 having previously served as vice president, Private Bank of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, also in New York from 1989 to 2003 and as an associate with Burns and Levinson, Counselors at Law, Boston, from 1987 to 1989. He holds an A.B. in economics from Brown University, Providence, R.I., and a J.D., Cum Laude, from Boston College Law School, Newton Centre, Mass. Tsandikos
is a member of Holy Trinity Archdiocesan Cathedral in New York, and an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Argyris (RJ) Vassiliou of Stamford, Conn., took office as treasurer. He is currently the president of Acme Pallet Company Inc., in New York and Di-Cor Industries Inc., in Bristol, Conn. He received a B.C.E. degree from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in1989 and a M.S. degree from Princeton University in
1991. Vassiliou also serves as treasurer of Saint Michael’s Home in Yonkers, N.Y., and on the Board of Anatolia College in Thessaloniki, Greece. He is an alumni member of the National Leadership Council for the Campaign for Stuyvesant High School and an active member of AHEPA. He is married to the former Ann Pappajohn. They two children and attend the Church of the Archangels in Stamford. He is an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Kassandra L. Romas of Short Hills, N.J., was re-elected and resumed office as secretary of Leadership 100. She earned a B.A. degree from the College of New Rochelle, New Rochelle, N.Y., in 1967 and a M.A. from Manhattanville College in 1968. She was married to Christos Romas, MD immediately upon graduation and, shortly afterwards, settled in Short Hills, where her husband started and maintained his ophthalmology practice and where they raised three daughters, Christina, Annette and Maria. She engaged as a leader and organizer in a wide range of volunteer activities until her husband’s passing. Shortly afterwards she became an executive recruiter for Michael E. Marion and Associates and, later, director of the newly formed Bouras Properties, LLC where she currently is managing director/ landlord of a large office building, in Summit, N.J.. She serves on the Board of Trustees of the National Philoptochos Society and is a member Holy Trinity Church in Westfield, N.J., where she has served as parish council president. She has chaired
u u to page 24
22
FEB–MARCH 2012
STERLING TRAVEL 20 LAUREN LANE, PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. 08865 www.hellastickets.com
SF Metropolis FDF
Κρατήσεις αεροπορικών εισιτηρίων, δωματίων ξενοδοχείων και ενοικιάσεις αυτοκινήτων
ΝΕΑ ΥΟΡΚΗ – ΑΘΗΝΑ
From
425
$
ONE WAY
From
$
715
ROUND TRIP
Total price • all taxes and feed included
Τηλεφωνείστε δωρεάν (Toll Free): 1.800.GREECE-8 (1.800.473.3238) 1.908.213.1251 • 1.908. 213.6826
ΙΔΙΟΚΤΗΤΕΣ: ΒΑΣΙΛΗΣ & ΜΙΝΑ ΑΓΓΕΛΗ
Archbishop Demetrios is welcomed to the Hilton hotel in Anaheim by several young dancers in the FDF.
FDF 2012 Filled with Dance, Music and Fellowship by Kristen Bruskas
ANAHEIM, Calif. – Nearly 4,000 dancers, singers, family, friends and spectators came together the weekend of Feb. 16–19 for the 36th annual Metropolis of San Francisco Faith, Dance and Fellowship Festival that also included a choral competition. Thirty-two parishes from the Metropolis were represented, forming 93 groups which participated in the festivities for the weekend. FDF is under the leadership of Metropolitan Gerasimos, executive chairman; and Fr. Gary Kyriacou, chairman; with active participation from the Board of Trustees and support of the Management Team under the leadership of the 2012 Managing Director Nicholas Metrakos. The traditional opening ceremonies began with a parade of all the groups carrying the flags and banners for their parishes, followed by an Agiasmos service led by Metropolitan Gerasimos. At the conclusion of ceremonies, FDF participants and their families were surprised with a Skype greeting from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. After Metropolitan Gerasimos greeted His All Holiness and introduced him to one of the largest youth ministry programs in our Archdiocese, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew spoke to the audience of more than 2,500 people, congratulating
FDF Chairman Fr. Gary Kyriacou presents an official T-shirt emblazoned with the event theme, “Believe,” to Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco.
them on their efforts to promote our faith and culture, and offered his paternal blessings to all those gathered. As the Metropolis clergy chanted Ton Despotin, His All Holiness stood up and blessed the participants which brought to conclusion this very
ORTHODOX OBSERVER SEEKS PART-TIME ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANT The Orthodox Observer, the nation’s largest Greek Orthodox national monthly publication with a circulation of 165,000, is seeking a motivated advertising sales consultant to start immediately. The position is part-time and home-based with visits to national headquarters as necessary. Responsibilities include developing and cultivating new advertisers and agencies, working with current clients, maintaining effective and revenue-generating relationships, assisting in implementation of sales packages and ensuring high levels of service to clients. The candidate must also meet quarterly and annual revenue goals and assist in developing local and national marketing initiatives. Requirements: Bachelors degree, advertising sales experience, strong written and oral interpersonal skills. Print media experience is also required. Excellent negotiation and customer service skills a must in order to close new business and grow existing accounts. Strong knowledge of national and international Greek American market. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. If you are motivated to think outside the box, are success orientated and self motivated, want to work hard in order to ensure personal and organizational success and have a love for the Greek Orthodox Church, we want to hear from you! Salary – Commission based No personal visits or calls please. Please email your cover letter and resume to: gotel@goarch.org
Patriarchal Skype – Highlighting the opening ceremonies of the Faith-Dance-Fellowship Festival was this appearance of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to the audience via Skype on Feb. 16.
23
FEB–MARCH 2012
San Francisco Metropolis FDF powerful message from our Spiritual Father and Patriarch. Archbishop Demetrios arrived at FDF on Friday and enjoyed two full days of competition, watching attentively as the dancers from varying age groups performed to the very best of their ability. A variety of workshops were offered which the dancers attended throughout the weekend which provided FDF participants the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the Orthodox faith, discussing contemporary topics, learning about living an Orthodox Christian life amidst a secular society, and emphasizing this year’s FDF theme, “Believe.” The second annual Greeks Got Talent competition was held on Friday evening and featured eight presentations which included guitar, violin and clarinet solos, vocal music ranging from musical theatre to opera, and hip hop dance. Among the judges panel were two distinguished guests from Greece: Yiorgos Lianos, musician, TV Host, and Fame Story contestant; and Vangelis Giannopoulos, music producer and talent manager. The winner for the evening was 18-year old Angelica Whaley from the Annunciation Church in Sacramento, CA, who performed the Puccini aria “O Mio Babbino Caro.” Concurrent activities In addition to all the FDF festivities, the Metropolis Philoptochos Board and Metropolis Church Music Federation each held their Winter Board meetings at which Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Gerasimos briefly participated. On Saturday evening, a gala dinner was sponsored in honor of Archbishop Demetrios by the Archons of the Metropolis
Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Gerasimos address a sea of young dancers.
of San Francisco with nearly 150 people in attendance. A special presentation on the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Religious Freedom initiatives of the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle was offered by National Commander Dr. Anthony J. Limberakis. The Archieratical Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop Demetrios on Sunday morning with over 30 clergy from the Metropolis of San Francisco joining in prayer in the Holy Altar. A youth choir
directed by Church Music Federation President Kathy Meck offered their angelic voices during the Liturgy, while students from Hellenic College Holy Cross School of Theology along with Fr. Seraphim Dedes from Charlotte, N.C. chanted for the daily services throughout the weekend and the Sunday Orthros. At the Awards Ceremony, Archbishop Demetrios commented on how overwhelmed he was with the weekend, es-
pecially the enthusiasm, commitment and energy of the dancers, singers and their families. This was His Eminence’s third visit to FDF and each time he leaves with a renewed excitement for this ministry, and remarked that on several occasions he has used FDF as an example of a thriving youth ministry that needs our continued support and cultivation for the preservation of our faith and culture.
Top winners – (Below) the Minoan Dancers of Nativity of Christ Church in Marin County won the highest honor in the Advanced Senior Category –First Place and the Best Costume Award.
(Above) Dancers from the host parish of St. John the Baptist in Anaheim.
Swe epstakes winners – (Right) Ta Aidhonia of St. Demetrios in Seattle won the Sweepstakes Award in the choral competition.
Aloha paidia! (Right) The Nisiotes & Nisiotopoula group from Sts. Constantine and Helen in Honolulu traveled the furthest to attend FDF – a 2,500-trip for which they held 11 fund-raisers over the past year.
Youth choir – (Left) The Sunday morning Archierarchal Divine Liturgy included the angelic voices of the youth choir, consisting of members from the five parishes in the chorale competition. Workshop participants – (Right) Elementary-age children attend the Iconography for Kids workshop led by Paul Gikas. Several mandatory workshops took place as part of the spiritual dimension of FDF. Other workshop leaders were Jacob Saylor and Frs. Jim Pappas, Niko Bekris, Anthony Savas, Luke Palumbis, Nebojsa Pantic, Aris Metrakos, John Hondros, Jason Roll, Earl Cantos and Allan Boyd.
Orthodox Observer photos
Knife fight – (Above) Two members of the Thorivos group of Annunciation in Modesto present a Pontian dance where a knife duel is acted out.
FDF 1st place results At the awards ceremony that capped the 36th FDF Festival in Anaheim the following groups took first place honors in the nine dance categories and one choral event. FDF videos and pictures will be posted in four weeks on the organization’s website: www.yourfdf.org. The winners will be posted in early March on the same website. Videos may be downloaded at no cost.
Choral St. Spyridon, San Diego. Dance categories Division II Special Achievement Award: St. John the Baptist, Anaheim. Primary: Annunciation, San Francisco; Advanced Primary - St. George, Downey, Calif. Junior: St. Demetrios, Seattle. Advanced Junior: St. John the Baptist, Las Vegas. Division I Special Achievement Award:: St. Katherine, Chandler, Ariz. Intermediate: St. Spyridon, San Diego. Advanced Intermediate: St. George, Downey. Senior: St. Demetrios, Seattle. Advanced Senior: Nativity of Christ Church in Marin County. Sweepstakes Awards Choral: St. Demetrios, Seattle. Division II Dance: St. Sophia, Los Angeles. Division I Dance: Assumption, Long Beach.
24
FEB–MARCH 2012
Leadership 100
Conference Approves Grants u u from page 21 the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity of New York’s annual Cathedral Ball and been active in building restoration projects at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation of New York. On Friday, Feb. 10, the General Assembly recognized the service of George P. Stamas of Baltimore, senior partner in the prestigious Washington law firm of Kirkland & Ellis LLP, for his service on the board of trustees since 2002. He was presented with a Commendation for Distinguished Service. George and his wife, Georgia, have been members of Leadership 100 since 2000. Eliana Papadakis, a long-time and devoted member, and a community and philanthropic leader in Philadelphia, was elected to his seat. She and her husband, the late Dr. Constantine Papadakis , who was president of Drexel University, joined Leadership 100 in 2000. The late Michael R. Henry was also recognized for his service on the Board of Trustees and for his many contributions in the area of marketing and membership development. His wife, Sofia, an active member of Leadership 100, accepted the Commendation for Distinguished Service award. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE APPROVES NEW GRANTS The Executive Committee, meeting at conference approved grants totaling $416,250, all of which were recommended by the Grant Committee under the chairmanship of John Sitilides. The grants included: • The Archdiocese Department of Religious Education “Living Our Orthodox Faith – The New Series” – for $81,750 to publish and update Grade 5 pupil textbook and teacher guide “God Calls Us”, completing the revision of the elementary “Living Our Orthodox Faith” textbook series. • The Archdiocese Department of Internet Ministries “Bulletin Builder Version
2.0” – for $95,000 to assist in completing a full rewrite and redesign of the entire Bulletin Builder system. In 2004, Leadership 100 funded the launch of this successful project. Today, one third of GOA parishes utilize Bulletin Builder to create their weekly bulletins. • The Archdiocese Center for Family Care: “Renewal of Family Ministry Grant” – for $100,000 to provide assistance for ongoing development and evaluation of the Center’s direction and materials, including a study of Orthodox Christian families and the production and dissemination of Family Ministry publications. • The Archdiocese Department of Stewardship, Outreach and Evangelism “Planned Giving Resources for our Parishes” – for $21,500 to provide a complete set of resources, such as printing, mailing and promotional materials, to the parishes of the GOA with the goal of assisting parish members in their estate planning while encouraging them to remember the Church in their plans. • The Archdiocese Department of Stewardship, Outreach and Evangelism: “Orthodox Natural Church Development” – for $18,000 to provide guidance to parishes that implement the Natural Church Development System, designed to assist parishes to promote church growth by objectively evaluating, assessing and measuring church health in an organized and methodical way. • The Metropolis of Boston: “Emerging Leaders Ministry” – for $100,000 to establish a Contemporary Professional Ministry Program to engage professionals in the Church and in Athletic, Social, Cultural, Professional, Education and Spiritual activities with their peers, motivate their greater contribution of talents and resources, and create settings for social, educational and spiritual interaction, innovatively, practically and meritoriously, with promise for national application. With the addition of the new grants, grant distributions since the inception of Leadership 100 total $32,255,686.
Koulourakia:
The original traditional Easter treat! Savor the sweet, delicate flavor of the popular Easter cookie made from the recipe inspired by three generations of yiayias Delicious, Beautifully boxed and bowed! Koulourakia, Baklava and Paksimadia Perfect for your Easter gift giving, or just to enjoy yourself! Complimentary shipping info@sweetsbystella.com 914-708-0096 Visit us at: www.sweetsbystella.com
2012 YEARBOOK
of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Includes general information, Metropolis and parish listings, Archdiocese departmental and institutions information and other valuable resources.
Only $18, plus $5 shipping and handling
Call 212.774.0244 to purchase your copy with a credit card
Dimitrios Panagos photo.
Students of New York Greek Schools receiving the Three Hierarchs Award of Excellence.
Direct Archdiocese District Holds Three Hierarchs Events NEW YORK – Several events took place Jan. 28–30 to celebrate the Feast of the Three Hierarchs. On Jan. 28, a Three Hierarchs Awards of Excellence Ceremony was held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral Center where Archbishop Demetrios presented the Three Hierarchs Awards of Excellence to students who excelled in the Comprehensive Examination in Modern Greek in June 2011. (See list below) New York State Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas was the main speaker. The program featured a musical performance by students of the “William Spyropoulos” Greek-American School of St. NicholasFlushing, N.Y., under the direction of Areti Giovanou. On Jan 29, the Church of the Three Hierarchs parish held a tribute in honor of Greek Letters and their Patrons Holy Fathers of the Church. The Hellenic Heritage Award was presented to Archon Peter J. Pappas. On Jan. 30, the Archbishop officiated at the Archieratical Divine Liturgy Divine Liturgy for students, teachers and administrators of the Greek schools at the Archdiocesan Cathedral. Award winners Three Hierarchs student winners were: Stella Angelakakis, Chris Angeli-
dis, Evangelos Armatas, Orestis Avlonitis, Christos Bakalexis, Kalliopi Belitsis, Zoe Bousbouras, Despina Budis, Emmanuel Budis, Argiro Chatzis, Theodora Douros Danias, Christina Efstathiadis, Georgios Eleftheriadis, Polyxeni Emmanouil, Ileana Exaras, Eleftherios Gementzopoulos, Chrisa Georgakis, Nicholas Georgiou, Elias Germanakos, Christina Glekas, Eleni Gogos, Dennis Grapsas, Nikolas Kefalonitou Gupta, Christina Hamelos, Maria Kakias, Sophia Karamatzanis, Dimitrios Kartas, Alexandra Katechis, Ourania Katechis, Theodora Kontopoulos, Anastasia Koronios, Demetrios Koutsidis, Markos Kouzounis, Paraskevi Leonardos, Barbara Ligas, Kalliopi Logothetis, Yianni Louka, Ismini Mangafas, Ariadne Manikas, Despina Marmaropoulou, Aphrodite Megaris, Erofili Moraitis, Demetrios Neophytou, Alexandra Nerantzinis, Irene Nicholas, Dimitris Papas Erini Papas, Joanna Papasmiris, Chrysoula Passos, Dimitri Perdik, Dimitris Petrakis, Theoharis Petsios, Mark Plimakis, Apostolos Polianidis, Chris Roditis, Vasiliki Savvides, Maria Shinas, Eleni Shyta, Stefanos Spiratos, Konstantinos Stavrou, Konstantinos Theologitis, George Trantafillou, Sophia Maria Tsilerides, Zachary Tzavelis, Alexandra Vasilakos, Katerina Vrionedes, Andreas Xenophontos, Maria Zacharis and Spiridoula Zolotas.
Holy Cross Responds to Missions Call u u from page 10 identity, and of the great responsibility and privilege to reach out to all nations, is the increasing number of HCHC students who have participated in short-term mission teams. Of course, going on such teams is not the same as committing a portion of one’s life to serve in a cross-cultural setting, but these experiences do open up hearts and minds to better understand the essential role of offering a witness of God’s love to the world around us. The first short-term Orthodox mission team sent out by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Mission Center to Kenya in 1987 included nine participants who would graduate from Holy Cross. And since then, there have been at least 200 Holy Cross graduates who have participated in short-term mission trips via the OCMC, Project Mexico, or the Hogar Orphanage in Guatamala. The number of 200 over the past 25 years reflects how 55 percent of our graduates have gotten personally involved in the mission movement. This healthy sign of progress is even magnified in 2011, when 25 HCHC students, by far the most ever
in a single year, went on trips to Albania, Guatemala, Tanzania, and Uganda. That’s an encouraging 13 percent of our present student body getting a taste of the missionary field in a single year here at school. Who know what seeds these experiences are planting in the lives of our students, and how they will allow these seeds of faith to grow and sprout in their future ministries. From these experiences, hopefully more students and graduates will accept the greater challenge of becoming longterm cross-cultural missionaries for at least several years of their ministry. Much work is still needed, and as Jesus reminded us, “The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few.” As true as this is for our Church in America, it is even much truer in so many places around the world. Yet graduates of HCHC are understanding this universal call and more faithfully responding to it. Fr. Luke A. Veronis is the director of the Missions Institute of Orthodox Christianity at HCHC, an instructor in missiological courses at HCHC, a former 10-year OCMC missionary, and pastor of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Webster, Mass.
25
FEB–MARCH 2012
Community Takes a Fresh (Vegetable) Approach to Feeding the Hungry P A R I S H
profile
St. George that are offered for sale. It is a way of supporting St. George while contemplating the Passion of our Lord, Jesus Christ. • The Philoptochos Wine Fest, featuring an evening of wine, food and fellowship, with 100 percent of the money raised going to charities. The Philoptochos also offers cookbooks for sale at the parish book store and holds a baklava and spinach pie sale during the year. • “Learning the Divine Liturgy” – a two DVD set presented by Fr. Nicholas as a teaching tool and gift. • An ink cartridge collection project to collect and return used ink cartridges for which the parish receives $4 per cartridge. • The Kroger’s Community Rewards Program - Every time parishioners shop at Kroger’s, their purchases earn dollars for the church. • Gordon Food Services - St. George has been enrolled with GFS (Gordon Food Services) to receive a percentage of all purchases made at any of their stores.
Name: St. George Greek Orthodox Church Location: Bloomfield Hills, Mich. Metropolis of Detroit Size: about 385 families Founded: 1959 Clergy: Fr. Nicholas Pathenos (Holy Cross ‘81)
E-mail: stgeorge48302@hotmail.com Web: www.stgeorge-bh.org Noteworthy: Parish has a strong outreach program. BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. – The medium-sized community of St. George Church carries the biblical exhortation to feed the hungry to a higher level than what might be considered the norm. Like many parishes, St. George has an outreach program of providing support to the local food banks whose importance is significant in this Detroit suburb 30 miles northwest of downtown. “Perhaps our most innovative outreach program is a vegetable garden located on our church property, the proceeds of which are donated to the local food bank,” said Fr. Nicholas Pathenos, a Missouri native, the parish priest. That garden is no ordinary backyard tomato patch, but is more like a nursery. Last year the community volunteers who tend the garden harvested 60 tons of produce consisting mostly of corn, squash, peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes. With a population of about 4,000, Bloomfield Hills has ranked as one of the top five wealthiest cities in the United States with population between 2,500 and 9,999. Among its most notable residents have been Mitt Romney, current candidate for the Republican nomination for president; National Hockey League star Chris Chelios of the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Redwings, actor Robin Williams and singer Aretha Franklin. The current economic situation though, has caused massive unemployment in the auto industry and has affected the local church. A number of parishioners are employed in the industry, especially as automotive engineers. Presently, the parish consists mostly of third and fourth generation Greek Americans. The first Greek immigrants arrived in the area in the early 1900s from Asia Minor.
PEOPLE uPulitzer nominee Melody Simmons, a member of Annunciation Cathedral in Baltimore and its Philoptochos board, reporter for The Daily Record newspaper in Baltimore and a regional correspondent for the Observer, recently was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for her five-part investigative series in The Record. She and a colleague spent months looking into a $1.8 billion real estate development project by Johns Hopkins Hospital for a world–class biotech park that displaced hundreds of people who lost their homes but that has yet to be built 10 years later. Her efforts also involved about 70 follow–up stories. Melody also occasionally writes for the New York
ST. GEORGE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH The first settled in nearby Pontiac and many opened businesses such as restaurants and grocery stores. According to a parish history, a group of 40 Greek Orthodox held their first general assembly Dec. 30, 1928, at a church they purchased on Hill Street. In July of the following year, they started a Greek school teacher search and a Mrs. Tsivikos was hired in 1930 at a salary of $45 a month. Also in 1930, the city of Pontiac aquired the Hill Street church to make way for an urban renewal project. The parish then bought three lots for $10,500 in another part of the city and made plans for a new church in 1931. Archbishop Athenagoras visited the community in 1934. During that year, tuition for Greek school was $1 per family, regardless of the number of children enrolled. Membership dues were $5 per family. The fee for weddings was $10 and, for funerals, $5, later reduced to $2.50. Today, the parish has several active ministries, including the Philoptochos and Daughters of Penelope chapter, and youth activities. There are about 100 active young people, Fr. Nicholas said, with 92 students in Sunday School and about 82 in Greek school. The Greek school is one of the largest in the Detroit area, Fr. Nicholas pointed out. The community offers opportunities for members of all ages. Other groups and activities include AHEPA, choir, Family Activities Corner, GOYA, Outreach Committee and Youth Choir. Family Activity Corner is a religiousbased family friendly internet section that provides activities and information for the entire family. It includes a Table Top Times and National Public Radio. Prize winners are to be announced in April.
uCharity award nominee Luke Metropulos, a freshman at Duke University and the son of Fr. Chris Metropulos, pastor of St. Demetrios Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and the executive director of Orthodox Christian Network, has been chosen as one of nine finalists for the National Make–A–Difference Day All–Star Award for his charity project that he began in high school: a national fishing trip that benefits families in need. USA Weekend magazine has decided to open up the voting to a popular vote. Whichever program receives the most votes will win $10,000 as well as national recognition for their charity. An individual can vote every day, only once. Voting ends Feb. 29.
Prayer Guide, Play the Saints Alive game, The Sacraments, Children’s Bible Reader Online, Making an advent calendar, Advent calendar icons, What Can I Give To Jesus?, The Ten Commandments puzzle, Baking Prosphora (Athonite Style) by “Adventures of an Orthodox Mom.” The priest conducts Bible studies at various times during the year. The main revenue sources are the stewardship program and income from the Christianbased pre-school, but there are fund-raisers throughout the year that include: • The St. George Holy Thursday Photographs, consisting of three 8 x 12 photographs of Holy Thursday evening service at
Priest’s ministry Fr. Nicholas sometimes combines his avocation of flying with his ministry. A licensed private pilot, he has flown to various destinations to perform a wedding or to attend conferences and meetings. He recently had a harrowing experience with the engine of the plane he was flying, a Piper Cherokee, malfunctioned and quit, forcing him to make an emergency landing without power. He escaped uninjured. In his daily activities, he describes his ministry as “very active, both within and beyond the local parish community. My biggest challenge is dealing with the economic impact and challenges of the area on people’s lives. I do a lot of counseling.” — Compiled by Jim Golding
IS youR PARISh... Ready to expand parish participation? Seeking funds for a building project? Wishing to promote Planned Giving?
Assistance is Available! The office of Parish Development offers guidance to parishes through:
Strategic Planning Workshops: For greater involvement in your parish Capital Campaign Planning Studies: Assessing your project’s fundraising potential Capital Campaign Management: Planning and coaching from beginning to end
Stewardship Assistance: Inspiring greater giving in your parish Parish Planned Giving Programs: Guidance in cultivating planned gifts Grant Proposal Research & Writing: Help throughout the grant proposal process
Want More Information?
Contact us to discuss your Goals & Needs and allow us to explain how we might be of help. Greek orthodox Archdiocese of America office of Parish Development 3 South Prospect Avenue, Ste. II Park Ridge, IL 60068 Phone: (847) 825-1432 Email: jminetos@goarch.org
26
FEB–MARCH 2012
YO U T H N E W S
Metropolitan Evangelos with the hundreds of participants in the Metropolis of New Jersey Folk Dance Festival.
Metropolis of New Jersey Holds 17th Annual Greek Folk Dance Festival by George Tomczewski
WESTFIELD, N.J. – On Jan. 20-22, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey held its 17th Annual Greek Folk Dance Festival in Annapolis, Md. The annual event began Friday evening with registration and a pizza party open to all of this year’s participants. On Saturday morning Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey blessed the festivities, beginning with an opening prayer and a keynote address during the opening ceremonies. In his address to the dancers, dance directors, parents and Greek dance enthusiasts, Metropolitan Evangelos stressed the beauty of this cultural event which brings the youth of our Holy Metropolis together in an exciting and fun–filled event which showcases our beautiful and diverse Greek Heritage in the area of dance. The Metropolitan expressed his gratitude to all of those that had traveled from near and far distances to be part of the annual Folk Dance Festival, but most especially to the dancers, parents and instructors from the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Port Jefferson, NY,
who traveled the furthest to take part in the festival. Metropolitan Evangelos thanked the Rev. Protopresbyter Kosmas Karavellas for his many years of love and dedication to the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of New Jersey Greek Folk Dance Festival and for his unwavering commitment to the youth. He also thanked Felicia Karavellas, co-chair of the event, all of the volunteers and the entire host parish of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Annapolis, as the work of the dedicated volunteers ensured that this year’s Festival was even more successful than the previous 16. Metropolitan Evangelos told the audience that in his mind, regardless of the judges’ decisions, all of the groups deserved first place for their tremendous dedication and efforts. On Saturday and Sunday over 30 dance groups, consisting of more than 300 dancers representing 10 parishes from throughout the Metropolis of New Jersey, and the Direct Archdiocesan District performed dances from all parts of Greece, Cyprus, and Asia Minor for the audience of parents, grandparents, family, and friends that had filled the Annapolis High School auditorium
to capacity. All of the dancers did an outstanding job of demonstrating their love of their rich Greek Heritage and all of the hard work they have put in over the past year in order to prepare for this event. The spectators eagerly cheered each and every group for their wonderful performances. On Saturday evening a dinner dance was held at the Sts. Constantine and Helen Community Center with two different live Greek bands. The true purpose of this event is to bring together Greek Orthodox children from throughout the Metropolis together for a weekend of fellowship. This purpose was achieved as the youth from the 10 parishes gathered together on the dance floor and danced traditional Greek dances as one large group. This fellowship continued into Sunday morning when all of the dancers, directors, advisors, and families came together to participate in the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by Metropolitan Evangelos at the host parish of Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis. Metropolitan Evangelos is hopeful that the annual Folk Dance Festival will continue to grow, attracting more young people to participate every year. The results of the Folk Dance Festival are: Primary Division Best Costume: Ta Ellinakia–St. Nicholas in Baltimore. 3rd place: Hara–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis.
2nd place: Ta Ellinakia–St. Nicholas in Baltimore. 1st place: Elliniki Psihi–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Newport News, Va. Junior Division Best Costume: Diamantia–Annunciation in Baltimore, and Junior Aegean Odyssey Dancers–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis. 3rd place: Demetrakia III–St. Demetrios in Baltimore. 2nd place: Diamantia–Annunciation in Baltimore. 1st place: Jr. Aegean Odyssey Dancers–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis. Intermediate Division Best Costume: Senior Aegean Odyssey Dancers–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis. 3rd place: Sr. Aegean Odyssey Dancers–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Annapolis. 2nd place: Ellinopoula–Sts. Constantine and Helen in Newport News. 1st place: Demetrakia II–St. Demetrios in Baltimore. Senior Division Best Costume: Evangelakia–Annunciation Cathedral in Baltimore. 3rd place: Annunciation Senior Hellenic Dancers–Annunciation Cathedral in Norfolk, Va. 2nd place: Demetrakia I–St. Demetrios in Baltimore. 1st place: Evangelakia–Annunciation Cathedral in Baltimore. George Tomczewski is youth director of the Metropolis of New Jersey.
2012 Liturgical Guidebook Available
NJ Metropolis Epiphany Three girls swim for the cross at the annual Metropolis of New Jersey Epiphany celebration held Jan. 14 in Ocean City, Md. This year’s event attracted hundreds of Orthodox faithful from throughout Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey presided over the festivities, including the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, the Blessing of the Waters and the subsequent Diving for the Cross.
The National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians has recently completed and distributed more than 900 copies of the 2012 Liturgical Guidebook to parishes and individuals across the Archdiocese. As the official Archdiocesan resource for Greek Orthodox church musicians, the Liturgical Guidebook lists the weekly changes of the hymns, responses, verses, and Gospel and Epistle readings for Sunday Divine Liturgies and the major Feast Days of the liturgical year. In the frontispiece of the Liturgical Guidebook, His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios note his appreciation for the valued service church musicians provide to
their parishes: “you fill our churches with the sound of your harmonious voices lifted in song, praise, and thanksgiving unto God. The Liturgical Guidebook facilitates this worthy aim as it is a valuable resource for musicians and clergy to adhere more faithfully to the proper protocol of the Orthodox Church and thereby preserve the integrity of our rich liturgical music tradition.” Additional copies of the 2012 Liturgical Guidebook are still available at a cost of $30.00, which includes shipping and handling. For copies and further information, contact Peter Vatsures at 68 West Cooke Road, Columbus, OH 43214 or via e-mail: vatspnv@hotmail.com.
27
FEB–MARCH 2012
YO U T H N E W S Metropolis of Denver GOYA Basketball Weekend Raises $10,000 for OCF DALLAS – More than 550 Goyans from 18 parishes of the Metropolis of Denver competed in the annual GOYA Basketball Weekend, Jan. 13-16, hosted by Holy Trinity Church. The event raised $10,000 for the Orthodox Campus Fellowship organization and also supported various local charities. OCF is the official collegiate campus ministry program under the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America. But for Dean Xeros, this year’s tournament committee chair, and Metropolitan Isaiah of Denver, the decision to host OCF at this youth event was driven by more than a desire to support OCF financially. As the official college-campus ministry for not only the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, but all the Orthodox churches in North America, OCF is in the business of helping high school seniors make the transition from high school to college— and from GOYA to OCF. Mr. Xeros and Metropolitan Isaiah could think of no better way to expose Greek Orthodox youth, and especially graduating seniors, to life as an Orthodox Christian after high school than to introduce them to the ministry of OCF and the students that participate in it. The record number of GOYA members comprising 57 teams played more than 100 games held simultaneously every hour for more than eight hours on 12 basketball courts. The tournament, which took place Jan. 14, was organized in four divisions: Junior Girls, Junior Boys, Senior Girls and Senior Boys. “The annual basketball tournament has always been my favorite weekend of the entire year,” said Katherine Konstans, a graduating high school senior and president of the Holy Trinity Dallas GOYA. “Although I get to play basketball with some of my closest friends against girls from other parishes, the entire weekend has always been about the bond we create together as Orthodox Christians.” “This was by far the largest Metropolis of Denver GOYA basketball tournament to date, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of my fellow 28 committee members and the guidance of Deacon Paul Zaharas,” said Holy Trinity
Metropolitan Isaiah addresses more than 1,000 young people and parents at the Divine Liturgy during the GOYA Basketball Weekend.
Dallas parishioner and GOYA Basketball Weekend chairman Dean Xeros. It is the second time in three years the event has been held in Dallas. The $10,000 donation, collected in the months leading up to the tournament, will benefit college students throughout the Archdiocese. As the official college-campus ministry for not only the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, but all Orthodox Churches in North America, OCF helps high school seniors make the transition from high school to college–and from GOYA to OCF. About 70 graduating high school seniors attended the weekend events. They met with OCF delegates representing several universities and colleges and received OCF Connect Kits, which included religious materials. Sunday morning’s Divine Liturgy drew an estimated 1,400 people. Nine Holy Cross seminarians traveled from Boston and chanted during Liturgy, and met and interacted with Goyans and their families during the weekend. During his sermon, Metropolitan Isaiah referenced the games played, saying that while one team wins, the losing team benefits equally through their experience. He added that the joys of winning and sadness of losing are only temporary, but that the lessons learned through their participation would serve them throughout their lives.
Holy Cross School of Theology Seminarians traveled to the tournament where they assisted with events and spoke with many of the Goyans about HCHC.
At the conclusion of the awards dinner, Metropolitan Isaiah addressed the more than 1,000 persons in attendance about the future of the Metropolis of Denver, saying that he is encouraged by the direction the Church is going, having seen that year after year a growing number of Orthodox Christian youth travel from across the Metropolis to participate in its ministries. To learn more about helping high school seniors transition from high school
Seniors participating in the tournament were honored at the awards ceremony.
to college, view the OCF film “Transition” and OCF’s ConneckKits at the OCF’s E-store at www.ocf.net. To have OCF represented at a local youth event, contact Christina Andresen, Orthodox Christian Fellowship Chapter Development at christina@ocf.net.
(Top) Dallas vs. Houston junior girls; (Middle) Senior Girl champs from Salt Lake City; (Bottom) Junior boys from St. Catherine, Greenwood Village, Colo., vs. St. George, Albuquerque, N.M.
28
FEB–MARCH 2012
Film & Television The Descendants by Fr. Gary Kyriacou
In the movie Shrek, Donkey and Shrek embark on a journey to become friends. In the midst of this journey, Shrek explains that ogres are like onions. “Layers. Onions got layers and Ogres got layers.” The Descendants also has layers and writer/director, Alexander Payne, does an amazing job of peeling those layers away for us as we witness the tribulation of an American family. It’s been said many times that without sorrow, we would not be able to appreciate joy. This film takes us on an excursion of emotion. The Descendants serves as a platform to discuss the complexities of life. Group leaders can use this film to launch healthy conversation. Why do bad things happen? How are we to respond when bad things happen? How can we respond to the pain others are feeling? It offers the opportunity to explore the themes of grieving, forgiving, loving and dying (to name a few). This movie introduces unpleasant themes that are essential for family members to understand. As his world is turned upside down, Matt King (George Clooney) has to make sense of life. He is left to raise his daughters after a boating accident leaves his wife in a coma in the midst of dealing with a complicated business transaction. We are introduced to Matt King at a pivotal point in his life. The dilemma, as tragic as it is, is quite familiar. The filmmaker thrusts the audience into the life of Matt King, allowing us to feel his pain, confusion, triumph and accomplishment. It begs the classic inquiry, “Why does God let bad things happen?” The movie tackles this dilemma in a very subtle way. Thought provoking is the way the filmmaker puts us into the mind of Matt King, and allows us to feel his The Descendants speaks to life’s afflictions. Although the boating accident is quite extreme, other themes introduced in the film are experienced quite often by Christians. St. John Chrysostom, in Homily XLVI on the Book of Acts, explains, “Afflictions cut us off from the sympathy we have for the present world.” Spellbound with affliction, Matt King and his family find the true meaning of life and the value of relationship. The film offers a great lesson. Author Robin Sharma wrote that every one of us is riddled with issues which assemble our personhood. How we react
to current challenges dependents on how we have handled crises of the past. What immobilizes one person can actually motivate another. Understanding that everyone is fighting an inner battle helps us understand our fellow human beings. For example, rather than becoming frustrated with the person paying for their latte with nickels and dimes, we should refrain from judgment and remain indifferent because we do not know the complex issues this person bears. Director Alexander Payne illustrates Sharma’s lesson well in The Descendants. In a scene in which King’s father-in-law berates and blames him for the crises the family is tangled, King (in a very sympathetic, loving and understanding way) merely says, “You’re right.” The moment was ripe for argument: a full-blown, drag out, fight with Clooney’s character offered the opportunity to say, “Oh NO!” However, he doesn’t. He identifies his father–in–law’s pain, recognizes the hurt a father is feeling for a daughter, and smirks away the opportunity to argue in his George Clooney way. The scene is very reminiscent of the way Joseph embraced and forgave his brothers, for selling him years earlier, rather than scolding and rebuking them for this atrocious act. Do not be misled; The Descendants is not a sad, depressing movie. Like Payne’s other films (About Schmidt and Sideways) the film is magnificently sprinkled with comedy. In unpredictable ways and unexpected moments, you’ll find yourself laughing. The liberties allotted to Scotty, Matt King’s 10– year–old daughter, creates great comedic relief and illustrates the importance of a father’s influence in a child’s life. I have high praise for the work of director and writer Alexander Payne and the acting of George Clooney. Be advised that this movie is rated-R. The Motion Picture Association of America assigns an R–rating to motion pictures that may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements, so that parents are counseled to take this rating very seriously. Editor’s note: The movie was nominated for an Academy Award for “Best Picture.” However, the Observer went to press before the Oscars were televised. Fr. Kyriacou, pastor of St. Demetrios Church in Camarillo, Calif., contributes occasional articles on film and television-related topics.
Obituary Fr. Basil G. Kissal ROCKVILLE, Md. – Fr. Basil G. Kissal, 69, a retired priest who served numerous parishes, died Jan. 29. He was born Aug. 20, 1943, in Washington and attended public school in Maryland. He attended Hellenic College where he received a B.A. in Greek Studies, then continued his education at Holy Cross School of Theology. He married Areti Christakos in June 1968. Fr. Kissal was ordained as a deacon and priest April 10-11, 1976, in Chicago by Bishop Timothy of Rodostolon. He was assigned to St. George Church in Bangor, Maine April 15, 1976, where he served through August 1977. Fr. Kissal then served St. Nicholas
Church in Manchester, N.H., from Sept. 1, 1977 to Sept. 14, 1978; Annunciation in Rochester, N.Y., Sept. 15, 1978 to October 1984, St. Nicholas Chapel, Squaw Valley, Calif., and St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, October 1984-Oct. 14, 1985; St. George, Albuquerque, N.M., from Oct. 15, 1985 to July 1988; Sts. Constantine and Helen in Washington, from July 1988 to March 31, 2003; Holy Trinity Cathedral, Charlotte, N.C., from April 1, 2003 to July 15, 2005; and Sts. Sophia, Faith, Hope & Agape Church, Jeffersonville, Pa. from July 15, 2005 to Sept. 30, 2006. He is survived by his presbytera, Areti; and two sons, George James and Constantine Charles Kissal. Services took place Feb. 1 with Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey officiating, assisted by other clergy.
29
FEB–MARCH 2012
Great and Holy Lent
Spiritual Training for the Biggest Event of Our Lives by Eva Kokkinos
“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) On Feb. 5, two NFL teams finally met in Indianapolis, IN for the biggest game of their careers… The Super Bowl. So, for the New York Giants and the New England Patriots, this game would be the place where all of the training, discipline, and determination would be necessary to achieve their ultimate goal. Only one team could be awarded the Lombardi trophy and be named the Super Bowl Champions. This year, the New York Giants prevailed. On April 15, 2012, Orthodox Christians throughout the world will attend the most important event of the liturgical year… the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! In preparation for that day, each Orthodox Christian must train in spiritual disciplines to be ready for Pascha. More importantly, this spiritual discipline and training is really preparation for eternal life! So how does an Orthodox Christian begin this spiritual discipline? During Great Lent, how do we become Champions in Christ? 1) Champions in Fasting Don’t be fooled by the commercials and endorsements. You won’t find a professional athlete eating fast food or a buffet of desserts when preparing for a big game. Instead, athletes who want to succeed make sure to discipline themselves from certain foods, certain drinks, and even certain activities. Athletes train their minds and bodies to be in the peak condition to achieve their goals. For the Orthodox Christian, fasting is a difficult but necessary tradition of the Orthodox Church. Fasting is a way for us to discipline and prepare ourselves to receive our Lord through the Sacrament of Eucharist. In addition, fasting involves more than just
abstaining from certain foods. We also discipline our eyes, ears, minds, and mouths by fasting from actions that do not help us grow closer to God. We have to always keep in mind the goal of our Christian lives and to prepare daily. 2) Champions in Charity Have you ever seen two players collide on the football field or the basketball court, leaving one on the ground? Isn’t it great when you see a player from the opposite team help the down player get back onto their feet again? Playing on different teams does not mean they are from different planets and courtesy does not apply. It is an incredibly noble gesture for one to offer their hand to another and lift them up when they are down. During this Lenten season, charity plays an enormous role in our transformation. Sometimes we will encounter those who are in trouble, those who have collided with disaster, poverty, disease, or misfortune. God calls each of us to extend our hand to those who are down spiritually, emotionally, socially, and even financially and help them get back on their feet. As Jesus says in the Gospel of Luke, “for whatever you do for the least of these my brethren, you did it unto me.” Most importantly, take a look at the icon of the Resurrection of our Lord. Jesus endured the ultimate battle against evil, conquering death by death. Even Jesus extended His hands to both Adam and Eve, pulling them from Hades. Shouldn’t we do the same for all those who we see that need a “helping hand?” 3) Champions in Humility Isn’t it interesting that the NFL gives a penalty when someone spends too much time showing off in the end-zone? There
is nothing wrong with being happy or enthusiastic about a great play. But unsportsmanlike conduct is not tolerated. A true champion is one who is confident, but humble. Humble and truly professional athletes remember that game is more important than ego. Look at the Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee in the Gospel of Luke (18:10-14). When the Pharisee prayed, he did not simply pray. Instead, he went on and on about how good he was… especially compared to the Publican. But the Publican, a tax collector, humbly asked God to forgive him. No trash talk, no boastful talk, no aggression toward the Pharisee who was judging him. So what was the result? Jesus said, “Those who exalt themselves shall be humbled, and those who humble themselves shall be exalted.” 4) Champions in Love In time, the trophies, MVP awards, signing contracts, or bonuses all expire or tarnish and fade. But those athletes who had positive attitudes, played fairly, and who spent their time helping others are the ones who leave a lasting impression on sports fans. For Christians, the same is true. St. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13 says, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I become as a sounding brass or a clanging cymbal… love never fails.” We can offer someone a smile when they are having a really rough day. We might offer a kind word when a friend is being bullied or criticized. We can have lunch with someone who is sitting alone. These small gestures “never fail” to leave a more lasting and meaningful impression on those around us. In turn, we will receive that “imperishable crown” when we make an effort to live a life in Christ.
Must – have Items for Great Lent Whether you are a teen or an adult, Great Lent can be a challenging part of the Christian journey. With the right tools and resources, Lent can really be a special time where our faith and our commitment to Christ are deepened! Here are a few “must-have” items to help get on the right track: 1) Orthodox Study Bible – Pick up your Orthodox Study Bible, visit www. goarch.org for the reading of the day, and commit specific time to reading the Holy Scriptures. You can also get the Daily Readings on your smartphone with the Daily Readings app! Don’t have a Bible? Go to your local parish bookstore or visit your favorite online Orthodox bookstore to purchase a copy. 2) Orthodox Prayer Book – During the Lenten season, we have an opportunity to more deeply focus on our prayer life. But we don’t always know how to pray or what to say. There are wonderful Orthodox prayer books that you can take with you wherever you go… school, work, camp, etc. Go to your local parish bookstore to find a copy. You can also find Orthodox Christian prayers on many church websites. You can download a copy and keep it at you nightstand or with your icons. 3) Parish Calendar of Lenten Services –Great Lent is filled with beautiful service to attend. Make sure you have a copy of your parish’s Lenten services. Some parishes even have them posted online or available in an e-Newsletter. Attending Lenten services might encourage you to attend more regularly throughout the year! 4) Lenten Cookbook – There are many delicious and healthy recipes that are “fast-friendly” for any Lenten or fasting period in the Church. Look online for Orthodox Christian Lenten cookbooks. People shared recipes on many online recipe website. A great way to share ideas is a Lenten pot-luck and recipe share! Plan a youth event where everyone must prepare a Lenten dish and bring a copy of the recipe. Collect the recipes and make them available to everyone to take home! You could even make your OWN cookbook as a youth group!
“Into the Desert”: a 40day Lenten Challenge Are you up for the challenge?? We are once again offering Into the Desert: A 40-Day Lenten Blog. Beginning on Clean Monday, this Lenten blog is designed to motivate, challenge, and inspire young people to grow in Christ during Lent. Young people can utilize the blog for their own personal Lenten journey. Youth groups can incorporate the blog into their youth group meetings and Lenten discussions. In fact, there are many ways you can use this blog! Families can start a tradition of evening Lenten discussions. Youth workers can follow the blog to deepen their own knowledge and spiritual growth. If you have a Facebook page or website, feel free to share the link with your friends and family. It is not too late to follow the blog! Visit www.orthodoxyouthministry. blogspot.com • www.youth.goarch.org.
30
FEBRUARY–MARCH 2012
OBSERVER’S CLASSIFIEDS Archbishop Demetrios of AmericA the first DecADe 1999-2009
NAPLES, FLORIDA Be an informed Buyer • Seller !!! (888) 438-4133
REAL ESTATE
www.jimsellsnaplesflorida.com
FOR SALE in KASTRI
For SALE in Kastri, Athens, at a prominent location, plot of land 9442 sqm. with a building factor 0.6, facade 52.0 meters and a villa of 1802 sqm. Call: 011.30.210.361.5098 and 011.30.694.483.8193
HOMES FOR SALE IN MYKONOS
Mykonos, two new 1302 (sqm) homes, in Marathi area, 1 km from the beach, 11/2 km from the town, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, large terrace, 300,000 Euros. Call 770.394.5475
REAL ESTATE BROKERS
T
his beautifully produced book presents a full spectrum of the activities in the life of the Greek Orthodox Church in America from the years 1999-2009, the first ten years of Archiepiscopal Ministry of Archbishop Demetrios of America. The 368-page hard cover book contains 537 photographs, all taken by the Official Photographer of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Dimitrios Panagos, and masterfully compiled & edited by Revekka Papadopoulou. Chapters include: Biography, Enthronement, Archpastoral Ministry, Education & Youth, Ecumenical Patriarchate, Official trips, Welcoming Visitors, At the Nation’s Capital, Omogeneia & Cultural Events, Sep. 11-2001, Ecumenical Relations & SCOBA, 40th Anniversary of Episcopacy, and Honors & Degrees.
“A must for every Greek Orthodox parish & home in America.” To order your copy of this book ($75 per copy + $10 S&H) please call 212-774-0244, or email gotel@goarch.org, or complete this order form and mail it to: GOTelecom, 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075. All proceeds to benefit “Archbishop demetrios benevolent fund.”
Yes,_I_want_to_order_______copies Enclosed_is_my_check_for:_$_________________or_I_authorize_GOTelecom_to_charge_my: Exp._date:_______________________ Card_No.:____________________________________________________________________________ Name_on_Card:_______________________________________________________________________ Name:__________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________________________________ City:___ ___________________________________State:_____________________ _ Zip:_ _________________ Phone:____________________________________ Email:_ ___________________________________________
IF YOU ARE MOVING Mail this coupon to the Orthodox Observer 8 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075 AND Ask your parish to forward your name and new address to the Observer in order for you to continue receiving the newspaper IF you move but your new home is located in the district of the same parish, then list your new address below: NAME ___________________________________________ ADDRESS ______________________________________ CITY___________________ STATE ______ ZIP________
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR OLD LABEL
MUSICIANS
O R I O N E X P R E S S HELLENIC ORCHESTRA Featuring DR. BOUZOUKI • Greek Music for Any Occasion
bouzouki60@hotmail.com
(216) 470-4251
RENT A CAR SERVICES
NAPLES FLORIDA REAL ESTATE Vicky Lewis Broker-Associate Experience the difference... the difference is experience
239.777.4904
Vicky@TheNaplesExperience.com www.TheNaplesExperience.com Μ ΙΛ Ω Ε Λ Λ Η Ν Ι Κ Α D O W N I N G - F RY E R E A LT Y, I N C .
TRANSLATION SERVICES
MOUNT ATHOS PILGRIMAGE MAY 1 to MAY 15, 2012 For information please contact Theofilos Russos at (714) 535-0975 • www.mtathospilgrimage.com Exclusively for Men
Certified Translations: GREEK-ENGLISH-GREEK
TRAVEL SERVICES
GUIDELINES FOR SUBMITTING PHOTOGRAPHS 1) Conventional photographs: We accept Color or Black & White photos, printed on photographic paper. Photographs should be sharp and clear. Pictures printed on color printers, either Inkjet or Laser and photocopies or clippings of previously published photos are NOT accepted. 2) Digital photographs: We accept digital pictures if they conform to the following specifications: • Minimum resolution 1600 pixels wide x 1200 pixels high (approx. 2 mega pixels, digital cameras should be set to high resolution, high quality. If you scan a standard photograph -usually 4x6”- use a minimum of 300 dpi. We discourage scanning your own photos, send the actual photo.) • File format JPEG or TIFF (JPEGs are smaller files and easier to e-mail, TIFFs are better quality) • Color mode RGB, color depth minimum 8-bit. • Image files placed within any word-processing file or any other application are not accepted. • Digital pictures can be submitted by e-mail, DVD/ CD-ROM, (Disks can not be returned). • E-mail to: observer@goarch.org • lefteris@goarch. org. In the subject line write only the word “photos”
VERY IMPORTANT: Attach the image files and do not include them in the body of the e-mail or they will not be usable.
3) Please include information about the photo(s); place, time and event as well as the names of all persons shown, left to right.
Book & Autobiography Writing in Both Languages Legal Translations • Fast service • Reasonable prices
Tel.: 646.460.0470 • Fax: 917.210.3487 • e-mail: leotaurina@yahoo.com
Advertisement Disclaimer ORTHODOX OBSERVER does not endorse, support, sanction, or verify the information or material printed as advertisement unless otherwise specifically indicated. ORTHODOX OBSERVER has no affiliation with any of the organizations/companies/advertisers, listed in, described on or printed, and it makes no representations or warranties whatsoever with regard to those organizations or any other organization, entity or person. The ORTHODOX OBSERVER reserves the right to edit, categorize, revise, or refuse any display or classified advertisement. In addition, the ORTHODOX OBSERVER has the right to terminate any ad at any time for any reason. Parties posting ads are responsible for the accuracy and content of their ads. The ORTHODOX OBSERVER will not be liable for any damages arising out of errors or omissions. The ORTHODOX OBSERVER will not be held liable for any damages of any kind relating to any ad.
PHOTO SERVICES-VARIOUS
Dimitrios
Photography & Video
To Purchase Photos from all events visit www.panagos.com You can find us on Facebook
CALL NOW ( 516) 931-2333 Your Ad Here
ADVERTISE IN THE
ORTHODOX OBSERVER
observer@goarch.org
Tel: (212)570-3555
31
FEB–MARCH 2012
Why Not Become All Fire?
The Work of the Holy Spirit in Our Homes by Fr. Barnabas Powell
“You see, your Godliness! Great is the power of prayer, and it brings most of all the Spirit of God, and is most easily practiced by everyone. We shall be blessed if the Lord God finds us watchful and filled with the gifts of His Holy Spirit.” This is a quote from the conversation of St. Seraphim of Sarov and his disciple Nicholas Motovilov. St. Seraphim was attempting to teach him that the whole of the Christian life is about acquiring the Holy Spirit. Motovilov, like many of us, simply didn’t understand until St. Seraphim revealed the practical path and absolute necessity of having a purposeful and Spirit-led life. As we continue our journey through the season of Lent, the Church in Her love and care for us, invites us to enter more deeply into the Christian life and prepare ourselves to celebrate the Lord’s Pascha! In light of the modern pressures on our families, we must practice the time-tested wisdom of the spiritual disciplines if we ever hope to stem the tide of the sad statistics of our children leaving the Church, and if we ever hope to regain that which strengthens our marriages and our Orthodox homes. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit So, what is it about acquiring the Holy Spirit that heals these maladies in our families and our homes? First, it is important to remember how our Orthodox faith embraces the dogma of the Holy Trinity. This cornerstone of Orthodox theology has very practical applications in our families: If God knows Himself as Three Persons in eternal communion, and we are created in the image of God, then being in communion with Him and with each other is at the very center of our life together as a family, and as a community. Second, let us take a look at the present ministry that the Holy Spirit accomplished in His Church. In John 16: 5-11, Jesus, before He goes to the cross for our salvation, tells His disciples of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Church after our Lord ascends to heaven. He “will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” This three-fold ministry of the Holy Spirit gives us powerful insights into how our Christian lives are to be forever changed and practiced every day in our homes! Notice, the Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin. For we Orthodox, sin isn’t so much the breaking of a rule as it is “missing the mark.” So, our Lord tells us that the first ministry the Holy Spirit will do for us is to show us what harms us. Isn’t that important information? As parents we are constantly telling our children that this or that act or behavior is harmful to them. “Don’t touch that stove, sweetie! You’ll burn yourself.” The Holy Spirit, if we are paying attention to His ministry in our daily
lives, will warn us when we are about to live in a way that actually harms us! What a powerful and important gift! Next, our Lord tells us that the Holy Spirit will convict the world of righteousness. So, the Holy Spirit, the Helper, won’t just warn us when we are approaching a danger zone in our lives, He will also show us the path that helps us. Our Orthodox faith isn’t just about dos and don’ts! No, our faith is filled with practical practices that lead to a way of life governed by wisdom and beauty. Our homes can be places of peace and our children can be given a very solid foundation in Orthodoxy that keeps them connected to the faith their whole lives. The Holy Spirit guides us into the good and helpful Christian path and practice that makes our lives as they were intended to be! Finally, our Lord tells His disciples that the Holy Spirit will convict the world of judgment, because the “the ruler of this world is judged.” This means that all the excuses we come up with for why we don’t practice the faith, as we should are all empty. Our Lord came and destroyed every enemy of humanity; sin, death, and Satan. So, when we make excuses, we really are living below the freedom Christ has purchased for us. The work of the Holy Spirit in our lives is to continually remind us that all our true enemies are defeated and we can, by God’s grace, live our lives as faithful Christians. We can, so the only question is “will we?” Putting the Holy Spirit into practice in our homes Now the question is how do we put into practice this wonderful ministry of
the Holy Spirit in our lives? Remember what St. Seraphim told Motovilov at the start of our article? Prayer is the very first and vital step to making our faith more than simply a small decoration in our lives. If we ever hope to allow the Holy Spirit to bring His vital ministry to our homes and our families and our children, we will have to practice prayer. And the Church, in her love and care for us, gives us literally volumes of teaching on how to pray. First prayer invites the Holy Spirit to enter our hearts and homes. The prayer we Orthodox pray every morning to the Holy Spirit reveals so much: “Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth. Who is everywhere present and fills all things. Treasury of Good Gifts, Giver of Life. COME and abide in us. Cleanse us from all sin, and save our souls, O Good one. Amen.” Next, prayer invokes the Spirit’s activity in our lives. Most of the time my biggest problem in my Christian life isn’t that I’m doing bad things as much as I neglect good things. When I have an active prayer rule, when my children see me praying, when my wife prays with me at our family icon corner, I am greatly assisted in staying awake to my constant need for God and I am reminded of His love and grace in my home. This provides me with the depth and spiritual strength I need to keep pushing back against a world where it is easy to forget God. Finally, prayer produces intimacy. Remember the old ‘50’s song; “To know him is to Love him.” This is especially true of God. You simply cannot get to know someone you never spend any time with. But regular prayer every day, creates a sense of intimacy with God that will give us the spiritual sensitivity to hear His voice warning us when we are approaching danger, leading us to deeper goodness, and reminding us that every spiritual enemy we will ever have has been dealt with by our Lord Jesus. This intimacy is the never-disappointing ingredient that will strengthen our families, train our children, and shine the light of our faith to the world. As we approach Holy Week and Pascha, gather your family daily at your icon corner and practice your Orthodox faith that has changed the lives of millions for centuries. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you and your family so that, together, you will enter into Pascha renewed, refreshed, and revitalized by His daily ministry in your lives.
Fr. Barnabas Powell is the parish priest at Sts. Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Greek Orthodox Church in Cumming, Ga. He is a 2010 graduate of Holy Cross School of Theology. After several years as a Protestant pastor he, and 20 families in his former church, converted to Orthodoxy in 2001 after a ten year journey to the fullness of the faith. He and Presbytera Connie have two daughters, Alexandra and Katherine.
A STUDENT’S PRAYER Christ my Lord, the Giver of light and wisdom, who opened the eyes of the blind man and transformed the fishermen into wise heralds and teachers of the gospel through the coming of the Holy Spirit, shine also in my mind the light of the grace of the Holy Spirit. Grant me discernment, understanding and wisdom in learning. Enable me to complete my assignments and to abound in every good work, for to you I give honor and glory. Amen. – From ‘My Orthodox Prayer Book’ by the Department of Religious Education.
ONLINE RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES • The Sounding Orthodox Blog–Orthodox Christian Network (OCN). On this blog, you’ll find practical and thoughtful posts on a number of topics–including “Home & Family”–presented from a variety of perspectives, all of them rooted in the tradition of the ancient Christian Faith. Visit http://blog.myocn.com • Readings from under the Grapevine Podcast–Ancient Faith Radio (AFR). This podcast concentrates on Orthodox Christian books and other classic literature from a variety of sources. Dr. Chrissi Hart reads inspirational stories for children of all ages. Visit http://ancientfaith.com/podcasts/grapevine • Orthodox Christian Parenting Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ orthodoxchristianparenting
32
FEB–MARCH 2012
The Metropolis of New Jersey at a Glance Editor’s note: The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, consists of more than 500 parishes in the United States and the Bahamas, apportioned within eight metropolises and the Direct Archdiocesan District. The Metropolis of New Jersey, headed by Metropolitan Evangelos, extends for about 335 miles from the west bank of the Hudson River and the New York border to the Appalachian Region along the Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina borders.
General Information Number of parishes: 55
(Source: Archdiocese Yearbook and Metropolis website)
Geographic entities: The Metropolis includes the states of New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and the Philadelphia metropolitan area of southeastern Pennsylvania. Approximate area: about 60,000 square miles. Largest parish: Annunciation Cathedral, Baltimore Monastic Community: St. Nektarios, Emmitsburg, Md. Chancellor: There is no Chancellor position, but the Metropolis of New Jersey has a Vicar General, Fr. Kosmas Karavellas, and four regional vicars: Fr. Nicholas Bacalis (Virginia), Fr. Kosmas Karavellas (Maryland), Fr. Constantine Pavlakos (Northern Virginia) and Fr. Emmanuel Pratsinakis (Delaware Valley).
Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey
Major Ministries Philoptochos, Youth and Young Adult Ministries, Camp Good Shepherd, Greek Folk Dance Festival, GOYA Olympics, Young Adult League, St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, Youth Day, St. Andrew Eastern Orthodox Law Enforcement Federation, Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians, Religious Education, Greek Education
Contact Information Address: 215 E. Grove St., Westfield, N.J. 07090, Tel. (908) 301-0500 e-mail: metropolis@nj.goarch.org • web: www.nj.goarch.org
List of Parishes Source: Archdiocese yearbook (Note: Numbers indicate the cities and towns with Greek Orthodox parishes. The following cities have more than one parish: Jersey City, N.J. – 2; Philadelphia – 2; and Baltimore – 3. The star, located between numbers 7, 9 and 10, indicates Westfield, N.J., location of the Metropolis headquarters and of Holy Trinity Church, which does not have a separate number).
New Jersey 1. Tenafly (St. John the Theologian Cathedral), 2. Fairview (Ascension), 3. Jersey City (two churches-Evangelismos, St. Demetrios), 4. Paramus (St. Athanasios), 5.Clifton (St. George), 6. Randolph (St. Andrew), 7. Union (St. Demetrios), 8. Elizabeth (St. Fanourios), 9. Perth Amboy (St. Demetrios), 10. Piscataway (St. George), 11. Flemington (St. Anna) 12. Wyckoff (St. Nicholas), 13. Roseland (Sts. Nicholas–Constantine and Helen), 14. Holmdel (Kimisis Tis Theotokou), 15. Asbury Park (St. George), 16. Trenton (St. George), 17. Toms River (St. Barbara), 18 Atlantic City (St. Nicholas), 19. Egg Harbor (Holy Trinity), 20. Cherry Hill (St. Thomas)), 21. Vineland (St. Anthony), 22. North Wildwood (St. Demetrios).
Pennsylvania 23. Philadelphia (two churches-St. George Cathedral, Evangelismos), 24..Elkins Park (Annunciation), 25. Jeffersonville (St. Sophia-Sts. Faith, Hope & Agape), 26. Broomall (St. Luke), 27. Upper Darby (St. Demetrios), 28. Media (St. George)
Delaware 29. Wilmington (Holy Trinity).
Virginia Maryland 30. Bel Air (Sts. Mary Magdalen & Markella), 31. Baltimore (three
churches-Annunciation, St. Demetrios, St. Nicholas), 32. Frederick (Sts. Peter and Paul), 33. Bethesda (St. George), 34. Lanham (St. Theodore), 35. Annapolis (Sts. Constantine and Helen), 36. Ocean City (St. George).
37. Winchester (Dormition of the Virgin Mary), 38. Loudoun County (Greek Orthodox Community) 39. Falls Church (St. Katherine), 40. Fredericksburg (Nativity of the Theotokos), 41. Charlottesville (Transfiguration), 42.
Richmond (Sts. Constantine and Helen Cathedral), 43. Hopewell (St. Elpis), 44.Williamsburg (St. Demetrios) 45. Newport News (Sts. Constantine and Helen), 46. Norfolk (Annunciation Cathedral), 47. Virginia Beach (St. Nicholas), 48. Lynchburg (St. George), 49. Holy Trinity, 50. Danville (St. Peter).