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Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-03-31
Bulletin Contents
This Week and Upcoming Events
Event Flyers
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Memorials and Trisagions
Wisdom of the Fathers
Saints and Feasts
Messages from our Metropolis of Atlanta
Metropolis of Atlanta News
Archepiscopal Message
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese News
Ecumenical Patriarchate News
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Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (561) 833-6387
  • Fax:
  • (561) 833-6391
  • Street Address:

  • 110 Southern Blvd.

  • West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Contact Information

Fr. Chrysostom Mitchell
Priest

stcatherinewpb@gmail.com | (561) 833-6387

Services Schedule

Sunday Services:

  8:30 am     Orthros

  9:45 am     Divine Liturgy

 

Sunday School Classes: 

11:15 am     After Holy Communion

Past Bulletins


This Week and Upcoming Events

 Christ is in our midst!  He is and ever shall be!

 Our services are streamed live on the internet.
at our Saint Catherine website - www.stcatherine-wpb.org 

Join us for Orthodox Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 9:45 a.m.

Light a candle and offer a prayer at Saint Catherine (click above).  

The online form sends the names of your family and friends direct to Father Gustavo at the altar;prayers are offered during the Proskomidi in preparation for the Divine Liturgy!

 

March 31, 2024
The Holy Hieromartyr Hypatius, Bishop of Gangra

 

 COVID-19 protocol:  Parishioners and guests may wear a mask if they desire in our Church and Hellenic Cultural Center.  All are advised not to enter if exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.  Everyone should also follow the CDC guidelines on quarantining if they have recently been with someone who is COVID positive or experiencing symptoms.

Links to the service text:  Links to the service texts are through the Digital Chant Stand of our Archdiocese.  For optimal viewing select the "GR-EN Text/Music" link for Matins (Orthros) and Divine Liturgy. Apps may be downloaded for your phone or tablet. Link to the Digital Chant Stand 

Holy Communion:  When the faithful approach the Holy Chalice, they should stand with respect before the priest and say their baptismal/chrismation name.  After the name is uttered, the faithful should open their mouth to receive Holy Communion.  When the spoon goes into the mouth, the faithful should close their mouth and make sure that they swallow the consecrated Bread and Wine.  Every person who stands before the Holy Chalice, should not have any contact with the red communion cloth, before, during, or after receiving Holy Communion.  The red communion cloth is to be placed under each person’s chin by those who are assisting the clergy.  Under no circumstances should the red communion cloth be used as a table napkin to wipe the mouth, nor should one who has received Holy Communion touch it at all. 

Coffee and Fellowship:  We invite you to join us today for the Spring Parish Assembly meeting in the Hellenic Cultural Center after the Divine Liturgy.

____________  

This Week

Sunday, March 31  Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas
     8:30 am  Orthros
     9:45 am  Divine Liturgy
Parish Assembly ~
Parishioners are reminded that to be eligible to actively participate
they must have fully paid their 2023 Stewardship obligation
and have pledged and begun payment on their pledge for 2024.

Wednesday, April 3
     6:30 pm  Presanctified Liturgy 

Friday, April 5
     6:30 pm  Third Salutations


Next Week and Highlights of Upcoming Services and Events

Sunday, April 7  Sunday of the Holy Cross
     8:30 am  Orthros
     9:45 am  Divine Liturgy
 
Tuesday, April 9
    10:00 am  Mommy & Me
AHEPA and Daughters of Penelope Meetings

Wednesday, April 10
     6:30 pm  Presanctified Liturgy 

Friday, April 12
     6:30 pm  Fourth Salutations

 

Stewardship: As of March 23rd, Stewardship gifts for 2024 have been received from 114 individuals/families totaling $55,552.  Some of the donations represent fulfillment of their total pledge while many others have begun their weekly, monthly or other scheduled donation. We are so thankful to these stewards.

The 2024 Stewardship materials were mailed to our parishioners and are also available on the website. Click here for the 2024 Stewardship Program and Commitment Form. New feature for 2024 - You may complete the commitment form online and email it back to the office. 

The Donate buttons here and on our website lead to our online giving site.  Again, thank you for your support!

 

Youth Safety Resources:  We’re committed to connecting young people with Jesus Christ. To do that, we need to create ministry environments that are safe and health. For more on how you can help, please visit our Youth Safety website: goarch.org/safety.

 

Church Services Streamed:  Many of our Divine Liturgies have been recorded and can be viewed at www.youtube.com.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel; you will be notified when we begin a live stream.

Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church (Services from 2020 until now)

Saint Catherine Greek Orthodox Church (Selected services from 2015-2019)

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Event Flyers

    Saint Catherine Book Sale

    Saint Catherine Book Sale

    Stop by and see Nick at the bookstore on Sundays between 11:30am-1:00pm.

    Mommy & Me

    Mommy & Me

    All caregivers welcome! Join us for Mommy & Me on the dates listed.

    St. John Chrysostom Metropolis Oratorical Festival

    St. John Chrysostom Metropolis Oratorical Festival

    We are proud to be hosting this year's Metropolis Oratorical Festival at Saint Catherine in May. Donations to support this event are welcome and very much appreciated.

    CrossRoads - An amazing summer program

    CrossRoads - An amazing summer program

    An amazing summer program for high school juniors and graduating seniors. This can be the best ten days possible this summer! We have a scholarship available. Contact Father Andrew.

    The 2024 Archdiocese Directory is available for Download

    The 2024 Archdiocese Directory is available for Download

    https://goa-yearbook.s3.amazonaws.com/2024+Directory.pdf

    St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival

    St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival

    Introduced in 1983, the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival provides Greek Orthodox teenagers the opportunity to write and talk about their faith. The Oratorical Festival Program begins at the parish level and is divided into two divisions: Junior Division for students in grades 7–9 Senior Division for student in grades 10–12 The top speakers in the Junior and Senior Divisions advance to the district level. Two finalists in each district division represent the district at the Metropolis Oratorical Festival. The top speaker in each metropolis division is then selected to participate in the Archdiocese Finals, which is hosted by a different metropolis each year. We are hosting the 2024 Metropolis Oratorical Festival May 10-12, 2024 at Saint Catherine.

    What's New on Engage Orthodoxy

    What's New on Engage Orthodoxy

    Engage Orthodoxy is a beautiful website created by Family Life Ministry to provide resources and inspiration for our Orthodox family. Engage Orthodoxy hosts several blogs written by Orthodox authors on timely topics. In addition to blogs, Engage Orthodoxy has launched a podcast aimed at Orthodox homeschool families of teens. Check out our newest posts and listen to our podcast at www.engageorthodoxy.net

    Policies for the Safety of Children and Youth

    Policies for the Safety of Children and Youth

    Creating healthy, Christ-centered ministry environments. ------------ As an Archdiocese, we're ready to take the next step in youth safety. ------------ The new Policies for the Safety of Children and Youth is how we'll do it. ------------ Ministry heads check this out! We must prepare and follow all the steps for the safety of our children. Our Archdiocese requires this in order to participate in any youth events !!!

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Tenth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:1-14

At that time, Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and He revealed Himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas, called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We will go with you." They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, have you any fish?" They answered him, "No." He said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, for the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his clothes, for he was stripped for work, and sprang into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish lying on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish that you have just caught." So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them; and although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." Now none of the disciples dared ask Him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after He was raised from the dead. .

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Second Tone. Psalm 117.14,18.
The Lord is my strength and my song.
Verse: The Lord has chastened me sorely.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 1:10-14; 2:1-3.

IN THE BEGINNING, Thou, Lord, didst found the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of thy hands; they will perish, but thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed. But thou art the same, and thy years will never end." But to what angel has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies a stool for thy feet?" Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?

Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For if the message declared by angels was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him.

Gospel Reading

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas
The Reading is from Mark 2:1-12

At that time, Jesus entered Capernaum and it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven." Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, "Why does this man speak thus? It is a blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, "Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise, take up your pallet and walk? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins"-he said to the paralytic-"I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home." And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

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Memorials and Trisagions

There are no memorials or trisagions today.

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Wisdom of the Fathers

Take up your bed. Carry the very mat that once carried you. Change places, so that what was the proof of your sickness may now give testimony to your soundness. Your bed of pain becomes the sign of healing, its very weight the measure of the strength that has been restored to you.
St. Peter Chrysologus
Homily 50.6. Taken from: Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Vol. 2: Mark. Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 2005, p. 27.

Now Matthew indeed saith, that "they brought him," but the others, that they also broke up the roof, and let him down. And they put the sick man before Christ, saying nothing, but committing the whole to Him.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 29 on Matthew 9, 1. B#54, pp. 195, 196, 4th Century

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Saints and Feasts

02_palamas2
March 31

Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

This divine Father, who was from Asia Minor, was from childhood reared in the royal court of Constantinople, where he was instructed in both religious and secular wisdom. Later, while still a youth, he left the imperial court and struggled in asceticism on Mount Athos, and in the Skete at Beroea. He spent some time in Thessalonica being treated for an illness that came from his harsh manner of life. He was present in Constantinople at the Council that was convened in 1341 against Barlaam of Calabria, and at the Council of 1347 against Acindynus, who was of like mind with Barlaam; Barlaam and Acindynus claimed that the grace of God is created. At both these Councils, the Saint contended courageously for the true dogmas of the Church of Christ, teaching in particular that divine grace is not created, but is the uncreated energies of God which are poured forth throughout creation: otherwise it would be impossible, if grace were created, for man to have genuine communion with the uncreated God. In 1347 he was appointed Metropolitan of Thessalonica. He tended his flock in an apostolic manner for some twelve years, and wrote many books and treatises on the most exalted doctrines of our Faith; and having lived for a total of sixty-three years, he reposed in the Lord in 1359.

His holy relics are kept in the Cathedral of Thessalonica. A full service was composed for his feast day by the Patriarch Philotheus in 1368, when it was established that his feast be celebrated on this day. Since works without right faith avail nothing, we set Orthodoxy of faith as the foundation of all that we accomplish during the Fast, by celebrating the Triumph of Orthodoxy the Sunday before, and the great defender of the teachings of the holy Fathers today.

Hypatius
March 31

The Holy Hieromartyr Hypatius, Bishop of Gangra

This Saint, who was from Cilicia of Asia Minor, became Bishop of Gangra, the capital of Paphlagonia. He was present at the First Ecumenical Council. Because of his confession of the Orthodox Faith, he was put to death by the Novatians, a sect which denied that sins committed after Baptism could be forgiven.

01_mary2
April 01

Mary of Egypt

When Mary was only twelve years old, she left her parents and departed to Alexandria, where she lived a depraved life for seventeen years. Then, moved by curiosity, she went with many pilgrims to Jerusalem, that she might see the Exaltation of the venerable Cross. Even in the Holy City she gave herself over to every kind of licentiousness and drew many into the depth of perdition. Desiring to go into the church on the day of the Exaltation of the Cross, time and again she perceived a certain invisible power preventing her entrance, whereas the multitude of people about her entered unhindered. Therefore, wounded in heart by this, she decided to change her way of life and reconcile herself to God by means of repentance. Invoking our Lady the Theotokos as her protectress, she asked her to open the way for her to worship the Cross, and vowed that she would renounce the world. And thus, returning once again to the church, she entered easily. When she had worshipped the precious Wood, she departed that same day from Jerusalem and passed over the Jordan. She went into the inner wilderness and for forty-seven years lived a most harsh manner of life, surpassing human strength; alone, she prayed to God alone. Toward the end of her life, she met a certain hermit named Zosimas, and she related to him her life from the beginning. She requested of him to bring her the immaculate Mysteries that she might partake of them. According to her request, he did this the following year on Holy and Great Thursday. One year after this, Zosimas again went thither and found her dead, laid upon the ground, and letters written in the sand near her which said: "Abba Zosimas, bury here the body of wretched Mary. I died on the very day I partook of the immaculate Mysteries. Pray for me." Her death is reckoned by some to have taken place in 378, by some, in 437, and by others, in 522. She is commemorated also on the Fifth Sunday of Great Lent. Her life was recorded by Saint Sophronius of Jerusalem.

Allsaint
April 02

Titus the Wonderworker

Little is known of this Saint except that he took up the monastic life from his youth, became the abbot of a monastery, and reposed in peace.

Allsaint
April 03

Nikitas the Confesor

Saint Nicetas lived in the eighth century and became the Abbot of the Monastery of Medicium, which was near the city of Triglia on the Sea of Marmara. For his Orthodox confession of the veneration of the holy icons, he was persecuted and exiled twice by the Iconoclast Emperor Leo the Armenian, but recalled by Michael the Stutterer, and reposed, adorned with the twofold crown of holiness and of confession of the Orthodox Faith, about the year 824.

Allsaint
April 03

Joseph the Hymnographer

Saint Joseph was from Sicily, the son of Plotinus and Agatha. Because Sicily had been subjugated by the Moslems, he departed thence and, passing from place to place, came with Saint Gregory of Decapolis (see NOV. 20) to Constantinople, where he endured bitter afflictions because of his pious zeal. Travelling to Rome, he was captured by Arab pirates and taken to Crete, whence he later returned to Constantinople. He became an excellent hymnographer and reposed in holiness shortly after 886 (according to some, it was in 883). The melismatic canons of the Menaion are primarily the work of this Joseph; they bear his name in the acrostic of the Ninth Ode. He also composed most of the sacred book known as the Paracletike, which complements the Octoechos For this reason, Joseph is called par excellence the Hymnographer.

Allsaint
April 04

George the Righteous of Maleon

This Saint took up the monastic life from his youth, and went to Mount Maleon, where a community of monks gathered about him. He foretold his death from three years before, and reposed in an odour of sanctity.

Allsaint
April 05

Monk-Martyrs Claudius, Diodore, Victor, Victorinus, Pappias, Nicephorus, and Serapion

Of these Martyrs, Saint Claudius died when his arms and legs were severed; Saint Diodore was burned alive; Saints Victor, Victorinus, and Nicephorus were crushed to death by a large boulder; Saint Serapion was burned alive; Saint Pappias was cast into the sea. According to some accounts, they contested in Corinth under Decius in 251; according to others, in Diospolis in Egypt under Numerian in 284.

Lastjudgement
April 06

Third Saturday of Lent

Allsaint
April 06

Eutychios, Patriarch of Constantinople

Born in Theia Kome of Phrygia, Eutychius was the son of illustrious parents, from whom he received a pious upbringing. He studied in Constantinople, and became a monk in a certain monastery of Amasia. In 552 he was chosen Patriarch of New Rome, but was exiled in 565 as a result of the machinations of the Origenists. In 577 he was restored to his throne and reposed on April 6, 582.

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Messages from our Metropolis of Atlanta

Metropolitan Alexios' Message

 

 

My Beloved Ones,

This Sunday, the Church shows us through the teachings of St. Gregory Palamas & Gospel of the Healing of the Paralytic, how mankind may achieve theosis by seeking God’s grace.

St. Gregory Palamas is known for his defense of Hesychasm, a monastic practice of still, unceasing prayer which can allow a person to encounter the Uncreated Light of God: the same that Moses witnessed in the Burning Bush, and the light the Disciples saw during our Lord’s Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. An Orthodox Priest named Barlaam incorrectly viewed Hesychasm as a heresy, believing it spoke of a visible and invisible God. However, all St. Gregory meant was that while man could never truly experience God’s essence in this life, Hesychasts could experience God’s energies; and in knowing God’s energies we could therefore have a true spiritual knowledge of God. What Hesychasm requires is a very serious demonstration of effort, for this kind of Grace comes only to those who put in the work to seek it.

We can see from this week’s Gospel, how our Lord looks at this hard work as a sign of true love and devotion. The Paralytic of the Gospel has four dear friends who love him so much, that they go out of their way to help him meet Jesus, even though the Gospel tells us, “So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door…” (Mark 2:2) How many among us, seeing a full and crowded house, holding a friend’s bed, would feel that bringing him would be too difficult; that people would not move, and that Jesus would not see him in the crowd?

However, these doubts are pushed aside, because of the love these men have for their friend. They wish to see him made well and will not be discouraged or tempted to turn away. “…[T]hey removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay” (Mark 2:4). They understand Jesus who says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7). Seeing the roof of the home being taken apart, and the Paralytic lowered, Jesus also does something bold.

Ordinarily, out of respect for their free will, Christ would ask those coming before Him, “Do you wish to receive your sight?” or “What do you want me to do for you?” In the case of the Paralytic, instead, He says, “My son, your sins are forgiven.” (Mark 2:5). Naturally, this causes a scandal, for the Pharisees present, think, “Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Mark 2:7) Christ of course, as the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, knows the hardness of their hearts and minds, and so He replies, “Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins—he said to the paralytic— I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home. And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all…” (Mark 2:9-12)

My beloved, last week we marked the start of Great Lent by celebrating the Triumph of Orthodoxy over heresy. This week, however, as we journey deeper into our faith and our own lives, we are called to think about the ways in which we must come to God, if we wish for Him to meet us.

He will seek us, only if we seek Him through quiet prayer, fasting and charity toward others. We might not be able to demonstrate our belief exactly as those four friends did for the Paralytic, but we can achieve theosis by calling on the Holy Spirit through our sincere desire, as demonstrated by our thoughts, words, and deeds.

+ALEXIOS

Metropolitan of Atlanta

 Important News and Events

Χρόνια Πολλά to our Metropolis Family!

On Wednesday, November 8th, His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios prayed for all those celebrating the Synaxis of Archangel Michael and all the Bodiless Powers or Angels. He presided at the Hierarchical Liturgy in Archangel Michael Chapel with His Grace Bishop Sevastianos of Zelon, Fr. George Tsahakis, Chancellor of the Metropolis, Fr. Paul Kaplanis, Dean, and Fr. Christos Mars, Ephemerios, of Annunciation Cathedral. The Blessing of the Five Loaves (Artoklasia) was offered for the health and welfare of all those celebrating their Name Day and for Fr. George & Presbytera Theodosia Tsahakis who made them. A Trisagion Service was offered for the previous Hierarchs of the Metropolis of Atlanta and for Fr. Peter Leventis whose funeral is Friday. The Metropolis Staff, including Ethel Gjerde, JoAnne Mertzanis, Nick Kostopoulos, and Monica Gjerde hosted a reception for all the faithful and His Eminence blessed and cut the festive cake. 

On behalf of His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios, I convey our great excitement to welcome the five Metropolitan’s Choices Honorees and the two Honorees from each of our 74 parishes this weekend for our Archangel Michael Feast & Honors Banquet Saturday night and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at our Annunciation Cathedral on Sunday. We pray for safe travels and God's continued blessings on the faithful stewards being recognized. Χρόνια Πολλά to all celebrating their Name Day on November 8th, and the Patronal Feast of our Holy and God-Protected Metropolis of Atlanta..

Click Here for a full list of our 2023 Honorees!

  

 

 

 

Journey of Marriage (Pre-Marital Seminar)

All couples marrying in the Metropolis must attend a Metropolis-sponsored Journey of Marriage seminar prior to their wedding. The couple will present their certificate of completion to their parish priest after the seminar.

To see the full list of seminars in our Metropolis for 2024 and to register, please visit:
https://atlmetropolis.org/pre-marital-seminars-journey-of-marriage

Registration is online.  Materials costs are included in the registration.  Most seminars are currently being conducted by Zoom meeting.

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Archepiscopal Message

Archbishop Elpidophoros Archpastoral Address 33rd Annual Leadership 100 Conference

03/01/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-archpastoral-address-33rd-annual-leadership-100-conference?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

I look around this ballroom today, and beholding your shining faces, I think of this verse from the Holy Apostle Paul:

Truly, we are His accomplishment, founded in Christ Jesus for good deeds, which God has prepared that we should walk in them. *


Archbishop Elpidophoros Invocation, Closing Remarks, and Benediction 33rd Annual Leadership 100 Conference Grand Banquet

03/03/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-invocation-closing-remarks-and-benediction-33rd-annual-leadership-100-conference-grand-banquet?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

O Lord Jesus Christ our God, You have gathered the Leaders of this superb organization together for the sake of ministry and fellowship. We ask your holy blessings on us we bow our heads before you.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Homily at the Divine Liturgy – Sunday of the Prodigal Son 33rd Annual Leadership 100 Conference

03/03/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-homily-at-the-divine-liturgy-sunday-of-the-prodigal-son-33rd-annual-leadership-100-conference?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fhomilies%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1

This week, I have been here in your beautiful city of Naples by the Gul, with the members of Leadership 100 – many of whom are participating this morning – in order to further advance the mission and the ministries of our Church.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Remarks at the Groundbreaking for the Youth and Ministry Center

03/04/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-remarks-at-the-groundbreaking-for-the-youth-and-ministry-center?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fhomilies%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1

What a marvelous day to break ground for this vital addition to your Parish. You are creating an institutional legacy of faith, of learning, and of love.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Exhortation to the Metropolis of San Francisco Clergy Laity Assembly Contemplate, Reconcile, and Unify

03/05/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-exhortation-to-the-metropolis-of-san-francisco-clergy-laity-assembly-contemplate-reconcile-and-unify?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

I rejoice to be with you in person for this important Metropolis Clergy Laity Assembly, an opportunity to share in the vision for our Church and to participate in the life-giving teachings of our Faith.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Closing Remarks to the Metropolis of San Francisco Clergy Laity Assembly Contemplate, Reconcile, and Unify

03/06/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-closing-remarks-to-the-metropolis-of-san-francisco-clergy-laity-assembly-contemplate-reconcile-and-unify?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

We have come to the close of these Clergy Laity Assembly deliberations, and I want to congratulate all of you for your dedication to the health and well-being of this God-saved Metropolis of San Francisco.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Archpastoral Address Annual Metropolis of San Francisco Clergy Retreat Contemplate, Reconcile, and Unify

03/06/2024

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These past few days being with the Ecclesia of the West have been not only gratifying, but truly edifying. The synergy of Clergy and Laity in this Metropolis, manifest in your Clergy Laity Assembly, is a model of Church ministry and governance.


Remarks by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America For the Visit of His Beatitude Archbishop Sviatoslav Primate of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church

03/08/2024

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It is with profound joy and honor that I extend to you, Your Beatitude, and to the members of your Holy Synod here present with you, a warm welcome to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, as we gather in a spirit of ecumenical solidarity and understanding.


Homily By Archbishop Elpidophoros of America At the Divine Liturgy Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Williamsburg, Virginia

03/09/2024

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Perhaps there is no greater way to pay tribute to the anniversary of this wonderful parish, dedicated to the Holy Great-Martyr and Myrrh-Streamer Demetrios, than to be gathered to commemorate the souls of those who have gone before us. For the foundation of our parishes is truly the sacrifices of the generations who have come before us. And even for this youthful anniversary of ten years, there were oblations made, in the distant past, that have brought this church into being.


Remarks By Archbishop Elpidophoros of America At the Community Gala of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

03/10/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/remarks-by-archbishop-elpidophoros-of-america-at-the-community-gala-of-saint-demetrios-greek-orthodox-church?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

The tenth anniversary of your parish fills this Metropolis of New Jersey and our Sacred Archdiocese with much joy and spiritual gladness. You have accomplished so much in a really short period of time. Tonight’s Community Gala is a worthy celebration of your many successes and progress to date, and it gives pause to reflect on what opportunities the decades to come will offer.


Homily By Archbishop Elpidophoros of America On the Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare) Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral

03/10/2024

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Today, in this magnificent Cathedral, adorned with the glories of Byzantium and the beauty of our Orthodox Faith, we gather as a community, which, as all of you know, is a form of communion. The Holy Communion that we receive – the Body and Blood of the Lord – is what binds us together. It is the substance of God, the Divine DNA, that makes us a family in God. All of us are members of the Body of Christ, and our communion with each other is truly a sign of the sincerity of our communion with God.


Archbishop Elpidophoros of America At the Archdiocesan District Clergy Syndesmos Pre-Lenten Retreat Dormition of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church

03/12/2024

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Before I commence my remarks, I would like to thank Father Alex and Father Constantine for the gracious welcome of the Hamptons Community here at Κοίμησις Θεοτόκου. I also thank our local Chancellor, Father Elias, as well as the leadership of the Archdiocesan District Clergy Syndesmos, for the organization of this retreat. I am grateful as well for the presence and contribution of Ann Mitsakos Bezzerides, the Executive Director of the CrossRoad Institute at our Theological School in Brookline.


WELCOMING REMARKS By His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America At the Meeting with GOA Girl Delegates during CSW68

03/13/2024

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Dear sisters in the Lord,

I am so happy to welcome all of you here at our National Headquarters today so that I can personally tell you how very pleased I am to meet you – our Greek Orthodox Archdiocese National Girl Delegates to the UN, for the first time as an official program.

This program was started as a pilot program by Niki Devaris with the support and guidance of Rev. Nicolas Kazarian at the Ecumenical Department, two years ago with six self-funded participants from the Archdiocesan District, during the 66th Annual Commission on the Status of Women. This year, thanks to generous funding from a Leadership 100 Grant, we have been able to launch the National Program which has grown to twenty-four delegates from all over the United States, including California, Texas, Utah, Michigan, Florida, and Colorado, to name a few.


Archpastoral Greeting Archbishop Elpidophoros of America At the Meeting of the Archdiocesan District Council

03/20/2024

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I welcome all of you with gratitude and appreciation to your Archdiocese today for this meeting of the Archdiocesan District Council. Each of you brings different talents to this Council, and our goal is to bring together all these gifts to work in unison for the good of our District.


Homily By Archbishop Elpidophoros for the Sunday of Orthodoxy March 24, 2024

03/24/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/homily-by-archbishop-elpidophoros-for-the-sunday-of-orthodoxy-march-24-2024?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fhomilies%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1

Today is truly a wondrous confluence of times and seasons. Here we are, having completed the First Week of the Holy Fast of Great Lent, and we are on the very brink of the Feast of the Annunciation. We are celebrating the triumph of Orthodoxy with many brethren, to highlight the restoration, the Ἀναστήλωσις of the Holy Icons, in their rightful, and indeed necessary place in the Church of God.


His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros Homily at the Great Vespers of the Annunciation March 24, 2024

03/25/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/his-eminence-archbishop-elpidophoros-homily-at-the-great-vespers-of-the-annunciation-march-24-2024?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fhomilies%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchbishop%252Fhomilies%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_JjmOoSCoGGMm_portletAjaxable%3D1

Tonight we sang:

Ἀπεστάλη ἐξ οὐρανοῦ Γαβριὴλ ὁ Ἀρχάγγελος…

From Heaven the Archangel Gabriel was sent forth…[1]

We know the story, which informs every aspect of our Feast. And we know the words that this Mighty Commander of the Heavenly Host spoke to the Virgin:

Χαῖρε, κεχαριτωμένη· ὁ Κύριος μετὰ σοῦ· εὐλογημένη σὺ ἐν γυναιξίν.


Archepiscopal Encyclical on Greek Independence Day

03/25/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archepiscopal-encyclical-on-greek-independence-day?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fencyclicals%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FTS6kMZY0ZfXF%2Frss

Unto the Most Reverend and Right Reverend Hierarchs, Pious Priests and Deacons, Monks and Nuns, Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils, Honorable Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Members of Leadership 100, Day and Afternoon Schools, Philoptochos Societies, Youth, Greek Orthodox Organizations, and entirety of the Christ-loving Plenitude of the Sacred Archdiocese of America:

Onward, children of Greece … now is the fight for everything! (The Persians, Aeschylus)


His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros Invocation, Greetings, & Benediction Stamford Community Flag-Raising & Celebration of the Greek Revolution

03/25/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/his-eminence-archbishop-elpidophoros-invocation-greetings-benediction-stamford-community-flag-raising-celebration-of-the-greek-revolution?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

Greetings:

         Your Honor, Mayor Caroline Simmons,

         Honorable Representative James Himes,

         Master of Ceremonies Vasso Spanos,

         Reverend Clergy,       

Beloved Citizens of Stamford,

Sisters and Brothers of our Parishes – Annunciation and Archangels,

 

This remembrance of the Heroes of 1821 is a wonderful occasion for us to refresh patriotic zeal, and instill in us a passion for our own history, as well as to share and celebrate our culture and traditions with the wider community.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Invocation for the State Senate Chamber March 26, 2023 New York State Capitol

03/26/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-invocation-for-the-state-senate-chamber-march-26-2023-new-york-state-capitol?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

In the Name of God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and of all that is contained therein. Amen.

We offer thanks and praise, O God, for gathering us together today in the Senate of the Great State of New York;

That we may appeal to your righteousness and goodness, to bless all the representatives of the People with Your mercy and Your grace.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Invocation for the State Assembly Chamber March 26, 2024 New York State Capitol

03/26/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-invocation-for-the-state-assembly-chamber-march-26-2024-new-york-state-capitol?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

In the Name of God, Who asks only that we do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly in the Divine Presence. Amen.


Archbishop Elpidophoros Invocation, Remarks & Benediction at March 25 Celebration March 26, 2024

03/27/2024

https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop-elpidophoros-invocation-remarks-benediction-at-march-25-celebration-march-26-2024?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchbishop%2Fmessages%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FJjmOoSCoGGMm%2Frss

I want to express my gratitude to the Greek-American members of the New York Legislature who have made today’s celebration possible:


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Greek Orthodox Archdiocese News

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Announces Launch of New Website on the Charter Revision

06/16/2023

https://www.goarch.org/-/goa-launches-website-charter-revision?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchdiocese%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FpTEM6Ar2qunr%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOA) announces the launch of a dedicated website (charter.goarch.org) aimed at providing comprehensive, up-to-date, and accurate information concerning the proposed revision of the Archdiocese’s Charter.


Communiqué of the Holy Eparchial Synod

06/15/2023

https://www.goarch.org/-/communiqu%C3%A9-of-the-holy-eparchial-synod?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchdiocese%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FpTEM6Ar2qunr%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America presided over a special meeting of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America which was convened through videoconference for the purpose of considering current matters affecting the life of the Church in America.


School of Byzantine Music of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America launches new podcast

04/24/2023

https://www.goarch.org/-/school-of-byzantine-music-of-the-greek-orthodox-archdiocese-of-america-launches-new-podcast?redirect=%2Fnews%2Farchdiocese%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FpTEM6Ar2qunr%2Frss%3F_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_currentURL%3D%252Fnews%252Farchdiocese%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1%26_101_INSTANCE_pTEM6Ar2qunr_portletAjaxable%3D1

With much enthusiasm, beginning on the evening of St. Thomas Sunday, the School of Byzantine Music (SBM) is launching its new podcast called, “Foundations of Hymnology.” New episodes will premiere on the evening of the last Sunday of each month. The SBM Podcast will be available on the school’s YouTube channel:.


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Ecumenical Patriarchate News

Catechetical Homily at the Opening of Holy and Great Lent (2024) His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

03/18/2024

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Most honorable brother Hierarchs and blessed children in the Lord,

The grace of our God of love has once again vouchsafed for us to enter the soul-benefiting period of the Lenten Triodion and arrive at Holy and Great Lent, namely to the arena of ascetic struggle replete with gifts from above and the joy of the Cross and Resurrection. During this blessed period, the spiritual treasure and dynamism of the ecclesiastical life as well as the soteriological reference of all its expressions are revealed with clarity.


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