Sunday Bulletin - St. George Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-11-17
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Sunday Bulletin - St. George Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (651) 222-6220
  • Street Address:

  • 1111 Summit Ave

  • St. Paul, MN 55105


Contact Information










Services Schedule

Welcome!

We hope that you will make this your spiritual home. Connect with us on our website, Facebook page, YouTube, or sign-up for our email list at https://tinyurl.com/yc3tp29w.

Worship Sunday Orthros 8:15 am & Divine Liturgy 9:30 am

Confession (by appointment - call or email [email protected])

Weekday Services (www.stgeorgegoc.org/calendar)

Streaming

youtube.com/c/stgeorgestpaul

Fellowship Hour Sunday following Divine Liturgy

Office Hours Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Our Mission St. George Greek Orthodox Church is a Christ-centered community that: inspires faith and worship, cultivates spiritual growth and fellowship, and encourages benevolence and outreach.

Our Vision Ascending together to the fullness of Life.

Give Online at https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeStPaul/give/online


Past Bulletins


Calendar

  • Parish Calendar

    November 15 to November 25, 2024

    Friday, November 15

    +Nativity Fast

    Sunday, November 17

    9th Sunday of Luke

    8:15AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:45AM Church School

    11:30AM Church School Teachers Meeting

    Monday, November 18

    6:30PM Parish Council Meeting

    Tuesday, November 19

    7:00PM Catechism #11 - The Goal: Second Coming & Living the Christian Life

    Wednesday, November 20

    1:30PM Online Daytime Bible Study (via Zoom only)

    Thursday, November 21

    +Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple

    8:30AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    6:30PM Youth and Family Feud

    Saturday, November 23

    10:00AM Philoptochos Bake Sale

    Sunday, November 24

    13th Sunday of Luke

    8:15AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:45AM Church School

    11:30AM Philoptochos Bake Sale

    Monday, November 25

    +St. Katherine

  • Ministries Calendar

    November 20 to December 1, 2024

    Wednesday, November 20

    6:00PM Greek School

    Thursday, November 28

    7:00PM Book Group

    Sunday, December 1

    12:00PM Basketball Practice

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 4th Tone

The joyful news of your resurrection was proclaimed by the angel to the women disciples. Having thrown off the curse that fell on Adam, they ran elatedly to tell the apostles: Death has been vanquished; Christ our God is risen from the dead, blessing all the world with his great mercy.

Apolytikion for Gregory the Wonderworker in the Plagal 4th Tone

By vigilance in prayer, and continuance in the working of wonders, thou didst acquire thine achievements as a surname; wherefore, intercede with Christ our God, O Father Gregory, to enlighten our souls, lest we sleep in sin unto death.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Tone

Behold the temple of the Savior, his precious bridal chamber. Behold the virginal and sacred vessel of God's glory. Today she enters into the house of the Lord, bearing within her the grace of the Holy Spirit. For this, the angels exclaim: She is indeed the heavenly tabernacle.
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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

21st Sunday after Pentecost
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 2:16-20

Brethren, knowing that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin? Certainly not! But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.


Gospel Reading

9th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 12:16-21

The Lord said this parable: "The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, 'What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?' And he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." As he said these things, he cried out: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."


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Announcements

Greeters

Paul Werger & Theodora Bischof

Prosfora

Theologia Pitsavas

Memorial

In memory of John (17 Year) & Basil Pitsavas (11 Year)

Fellowship Hour

Thank you to Theologia Pitsavas for hosting today's fellowship.

Host a Fellowship Hour

Please host an upcoming coffee hour! Individuals, families, or even groups can sign up to host or co-host. Coffee Hour hosts are needed for Dec. 1, and 22. Remember that coffee is now provided, courtesy of Thrivent Financial, so your commitment can be as simple as picking up some cookies!

If you haven’t hosted yet in 2024, please check your calendar now and help us to fill the remaining slots for 2024. Thanks to all who have already hosted this year! Use this URL to sign up.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CA5AD2BABFF2-46964197-fellowship#/

Advent Pantry Drive

Starting November 15th, the beginning of Advent, we will be collecting food for the Focus Second Helping Pantry. This season we are focusing on Pasta and Sauce, Peanut Butter and Jelly, and Meals in a can. Let's remember those less fortunate when we are at the grocery store this Advent.

Clothing Drive Thanks

Thank you to all who contributed children's clothing for the Focus Clothing Closet. We delivered two trunkful's of clothing, lots of children now have new outfits to wear to school every day! 

Focus November Meal

Thanks to all who came out to serve last Sunday. We fulfilled our final meal commitment of 2024 with 248 meals and a great group of 9 volunteers- including 3 first time volunteers. Look to future bulletins for the next chance to serve in 2025.

Parish Game Night

Join us on November 21st at 6:30pm for food, fun, and games! St George Youth and Family is partnering with the Pioneers to host a Parish Game Night where we will play Jeopardy and Family Feud. Prizes will be given out! If you have any questions, please email [email protected]

Philoptochos Fall Bake Sale

Prepare for the Thanksgiving & Christmas Festivities! The Annual Greek Bake Sale will take place in the Church Social Hall on November 23rd & 24th! Come by and explore our stunning selection of seasonal treats, hostess gifts, and delightful stocking stuffers. Delight your loved ones with our artisanal Greek baked goods lovingly prepared from cherished family recipes. Additionally, take a look at our ready-to-go gift packages, showcasing locally roasted, organic, and fair trade coffee gift sets, and hand made small-batch fudge and caramel sets. These wonderful offerings not only enhance your gifting experience but also support Philoptochos' charitable efforts!

Sunday Best Coffee Philoptochos Fundraiser

Pick-up your pre-ordered Gift Sets today! Also, look for more Gift Sets and coffee for sale at our Bake Sale on Sat & Sun, Nov 23 & 24.

Then, mark your calendars for our next "Coffee Exchange Sunday” just in time for the holidays: December 15th. Orders appreciated by the previous Sunday. Visit our yellow cart in our Fellowship Hall and place a pre-order. Or email an order to: [email protected]. Thank you to all our coffee loving parishioners for supporting our Philoptochos Charities, one heavenly cup of coffee at a time!

Greek School

Registration is now OPEN for Greek School's fall session. Greek School is for youth in grades preK-12. We offer a hands-on learning environment for students to strengthen their knowledge and connection to the Greek language and culture.

Please register at this link: https://z.umn.edu/GreekSchool24_25 or use the following QR code:

 

Adult Greek School

Registration for virtual, adult Greek School classes is now open. Register here. Let Joanna know if you have any questions: [email protected]

Western Region Family Basketball Tournament Jan. 31 - Feb 2.

Save the Date! Practices begin Dec. 15th

It's that time again to get your sneakers on! This year the tournament will be hosted by St. Demetrios in Libertyville, IL.

Player registration and hotel reservations will open Dec. 2nd on the Western Region Family Basketball Tournament Website. https://www.greekbball.com/

***Note: Practices will begin at a New Location! due to construction at our previous facility.
Highland Park Elementary School (approx.3 miles from church)
1700 Saunders Ave, St. Paul, 55116

Practice schedule - Sunday 12-2:30pm
Dec 15
Dec 29
Jan 5
Jan 12
Jan 19
Jan 26

Scholarships will once more be offered. For inquiries, please contact Fr. Perry, and for any questions, reach out to Angie Kontenakos at [email protected]

See you at the gym! Go St. George!

Fall Parish Assembly & Parish Council Elections

Join us on Sunday, December 08, following Liturgy for our fall Parish Assembly and Parish Council Elections. This assembly reviews and passes our 2025 budget and elects auditors for our 2024 financial audit. We will also discuss and request approval of an architect for our capital project initiative. Please contact Angie if you have any questions.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84290595046?pwd=4rGTfXamOeOqs3iI2xrbpJ93VV0nbR.1
ID: 842 9059 5046 Passcode: 994928

Saint Mary's Summer Camp 2025 Staff Applications

The 2025 Summer Camp Staff Applications are being accepted November 1- December 31

Summer Camp 2025 will be held: June 28- July 4, 2025 at Camp Wapogasset

Our staff is carefully selected annually by an application process. We welcome Orthodox Christians active in their parish and willing to teach and reflect the doctrinal and moral precepts of the teachings of Christ and the Orthodox Church. If you are unclear about this statement, please speak with your Priest or Spiritual Father (Father Confessor) before proceeding. 
Applicants must be 17 years old at the time of camp and have graduated high school or received their G.E.D.
Please review the Staff Selection Criteria before applying.
Applications must be completed 100% by December 31st.

To apply to be on Staff, visit https://app.campdoc.com/!/dn/login?r=stmaryscamp

Questions?  Please contact Doria or Scott at [email protected].

Icon Art Studios, Inc. 2025 Winter Icon Class Dates

Session 1- The Holy Face here at St. George GOC & Zoom: Tuesdays, January 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 6-9 pm

Session 2- Icon of a saint of the student's choice (full figure) here at St. George GOC & Zoom: Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, & 25 from 6-9 pm

Please contact Deb at [email protected]/612-889-5868 or Steve Arsenault at [email protected]/ 612-206-7369. Cost for tuition and supplies approx. $298. Cost of tuition only $155

Silent Auction

Remember to check out the Silent Auction in the hall. Proceeds support our Missions and Benevolence ministry. New items are added regularly. If you would like to donate items that are new with tags or something else valuable, such as theater/sports tickets, please contact Angela Mortari at [email protected] or text 651-280-7123.

2024 Stewardship Program

Goal

$183,843 of $275,000 (through September)

At the Fall Parish Assembly, we approved the 2024 Stewardship Goal of $275,000. We have hit this mark in the last couple of years, and we truly believe that with everyone’s support, we will hit that mark again. Now is the time to submit your 2024 pledge. Pledge Cards are at the candle stand, or click the link below to complete the form online. Thank you for your support of the work of the Church.

2024 Theme

"Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant,” from the Parable of the Talents. We are all blessed with certain gifts. This parable stresses the importance of developing our gifts, multiplying them, and offering them back in service to God. 

Make a Stewardship Donation Online

https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeStPaul/give/online 

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Wisdom of the Fathers

I cannot be silent about the story of Hesychius the Horebite. He passed his life in complete negligence, without paying the least attention to his soul. Then he became extremely ill, and for an hour he left his body.
St. John Climacus
Ladder of Divine Ascent. Step 6: On Remembrance of Death, 6th Century

And when he came to himself, he begged us all to leave him immediately. And he built up the door of his cell, and he stayed in it for twelve years without ever uttering a word to anyone, and without eating anything but bread and water.
St. John Climacus
Ladder of Divine Ascent. Step 6: On Remembrance of Death, 6th Century

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Welcome Visitors!

Thank you for joining us in worship. Whether you are an Orthodox Christian or this is your first visit to an Orthodox Church, we are pleased to have you with us! Although Holy Communion is offered only to baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians, all are invited to receive the Antidoron (blessed bread) at the end of the service. The Antidoron and fellowship hour are reminiscent of the Agape Feast that followed worship in the early Church.

One does not have to be of Greek descent nor speak Greek to be an Orthodox Christian and member of our parish. All people of any background are welcome to join the Orthodox Church. For those interested in learning more about the Christian Faith or becoming a member of our church, please see Fr. Perry after services or contact him at [email protected] or (651) 222-6220.

We hope you will join us in our hall upstairs this morning after services for fellowship and refreshments!

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Prosfora (Offering Bread)

Thank you to those who make the prosfora/offering bread for Liturgy. If you would like to sign up to bake and make an offering of bread to the church, please get in touch with Krisandrea at [email protected].

Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” John 6:27

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Content for the Bulletin

All content for the bulletin (flyers, blurbs, calendar events, etc.) is due Wednesday each week. Content submitted after Wednesday will be included in the bulletin for the following week.

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Reimbursements

To our ministry leaders and volunteers, please save receipts when making purchases for church activities. A reminder that reimbursement forms are located on the tower outside of the admin and treasurer’s office. Please make sure to submit the form with a copy of your receipt (you keep the original receipt). Finally, please make sure to submit for reimbursement contemporaneous with the expense(s). Although we do not have a set cutoff date for reimbursements, please do your best to have all prior year reimbursements submitted before the end of January of the following year. Please contact Lani if you have any questions at [email protected].

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Charitable Donations to Philoptochos, Missions & Benevolence, Church School, Youth, Priest Discretionary Fund, Greek School, & other St. George Ministries

Thank you to all who continue to support our parish ministries! For those who would like a receipt of their donations to a particular church ministry for tax purposes, please make all deductible contributions directly to the church, noting a designation of the gift in the memo line. For example, you might put in the memo line “2024 Philoptochos Stewardship/membership,” “donation to Missions and Benevolence,” "priest discretionary fund," etc. Resources will be earmarked and distributed to the ministry you note, and your donations will be included in your end-of-year statement. Thank you again for your commitment to the work of the church!

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St. George Roselawn Cemetery Plots 2024 Pricing

Advance planning can give you and your family peace of mind and is also cost-effective. Annual cost increases are typically at least 2% and have risen over 26% since 2013. The St. George Roselawn Cemetery Program continues to offer lots at Roselawn in Roseville for a 15% discount off list prices. All revenue from lots supports our church and its ministries. These lots are in the St. George section, adjacent to the “Greek” section, and easily identifiable by the monument/altar table. Contact the church office for more information.

2024 Discounted Prices for Parishioners: 
$7,182 = Monument Lot (2 Graves) 
$5,095 = Flat Lot (2 Graves) 
$2,762 = Flat Lot (1 Grave, Limited Availability)

(These prices reflect a 15% off Roselawn Retail Price)

This continues to be one of those great opportunities where you can support the church, save some money, and create a legacy for your family all at the same time.

Lots for both monument and marker (flat) stones are still available.

Please follow Roselawn regulations for the care and beautification of your loved one’s lots.

The table-like monument marking our area from Victoria street is visible on google maps and google satellite view at the links below and can be found on the church website.

http://tinyurl.com/4cte47f3
http://tinyurl.com/5n6abxwa

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Let's Connect!

St. George has moved to a new social media platform designed specifically for parish life. Here, we communicate more dynamically regarding specific ministries, events, and stewardship. For those who haven't, please use the QR code here to sign up! If you have any questions or have issues, please contact Dylan at [email protected].

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Text Message Reminders - Sign Up for Youth & Family Events!

We have some AWESOME Youth & Family events, and you don't want to miss out. Join our text message system Remind to stay up to date with all of our communications. Join by visiting https://www.remind.com/join/stgyandf

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Parish Email List Sign-Up 

Sign up for our email list to see what’s happening at St. George!

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Please Note

St. George GOC broadcasts its worship services live on the internet. Your presence in the church is subject to audio and video recording.

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Archdiocese News

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Saints and Feasts

November 17

Gregory the Wonderworker & Bishop of Neo-Caesarea

Saint Gregory was born in Neocaesarea of Pontus to parents who were not Christians. He studied in Athens, in Alexandria, in Beirut, and finally for five years in Caesarea of Palestine under Origen, by whom he was also instructed in the Faith of Christ. Then, in the year 240, he became bishop of his own city, wherein he found only seventeen Christians. By the time the Saint reposed about the year 265, there were only seventeen unbelievers left there. Virtually the whole duration of his episcopacy was a time of continual, marvellous wonders worked by him. Because of this, he received the surname "Wonderworker"; even the enemies of the truth called him a second Moses (see Saint Basil the Great's On the Holy Spirit, ch. 29).


November 21

The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple

According to the tradition of the Church, the Theotokos was brought to the Temple at three years of age, where she was consecrated to God and spent her days until she was fourteen or fifteen years old; and then, as a mature maiden, by the common counsel of the priests (since her parents had reposed some three years before), she was betrothed to Joseph.


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Bulletin Inserts

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