Publish-header
Saint Gregory the Theologian
Publish Date: 2021-10-17
Bulletin Contents
A Word from Father Alex
Sunday Notes
Ministries, Programs & Parish Updates
Calendar: Next Two Weeks
Coming Events & News
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Saints and Feasts
Wisdom of the Fathers
Metropolis of Boston News
Archdiocese News
Ecumenical Patriarchate News
Allsaint
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Saint Gregory the Theologian

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (508)337-9986
  • Fax:
  • (508)337-9987
  • Street Address:

  • 1007 West Street

  • Mansfield, MA 02048
  • Mailing Address:

  • PO Box 293

  • Mansfield, MA 02048

Services Schedule

Sunday & Weekday Services
Orthros/Matins: 8:30 am
Divine Liturgy: 9:30 am

Youth Religious Education Ministry is currently offered Sundays in person and remotely following Holy Communion. Please see weekly updates from our ministry leaders for updates on each class. All are welcome to join us for Fellowship Hour after Divine Liturgy. 

Past Bulletins


A Word from Father Alex

Dearest Parishioners and Friends:

I am so looking forward to this weekend at Saint Gregory. From the Oktoberfest event on Saturday evening, to our beautiful worship, Sunday School classes, Orthodoxy 101 session and, of course, the parish youth hike at Rocky Narrows, we'll grow in Christ together, learn about our Faith and enjoy the best kind of friendship. 

If you're comfortable joining us for whatever you can, especially for worship, I hope you'll do so. If you're not able to be with us and are worshipping remotely from home, we'll be together in prayer, united in the love of our Lord. 

God bless you and looking forward to everything coming our way at Saint Gregory,

Fr. Alex
 
 
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Sunday Notes

TODAY'S MEMORIAL: Romalea Kostaras (10 yrs.) and Athanasios Kostaras (3 yrs.). May their memory be eternal!

HOMILY: Reflection on "Opening the Door."

EPISTLE READER: Kyri Stavros. Our youth are especially encouraged to contact Fr. Alex to read on a coming Sunday, in person or remotely. Parents, please let Father know if your daughter or son might like to read.
Monthly Schedule: 
Oct. 17: Kyri Stavros
Oct. 24: John Tomarakos

ANTIDORON SERVER: Callie LaFond. Servers are welcome to participate in this ministry throughout the summer. To get involved, contact Kyri Stavros: kyri910@icloud.com 

ALTAR SERVERS: All servers are welcome. We will start with our weekly schedule on Sunday, Oct. 24. Congratulations to Co-Captains Greg Douvris, Miles Kaufman and TJ Theodorou. Contact Fr. Alex or Tom Moustakis if your son is interested in Altar service--we'd love to grow this ministry.

ALTAR FLOWERS: Please consider sponsoring Altar flowers on a coming Sunday. The donation for flower sponsorships is $50. Please contact the Church Office to learn more or sponsor. 

FELLOWSHIP HOUR: Please join us in the hall following Divine Liturgy for friendship and refreshments--all are welcome to join us. Fellowship Hour sponsorships are open to the entire parish family. Please contact the Church Office to schedule your special day, in memory of a loved one, in honor of a special occasion or just to enable wonderful fellowship at Saint Gregory.

WORSHIPPING FROM HOME: STREAMING AND INTERNET MINISTRY
ACCESS SERVICES VIA FACEBOOK:
St. Gregory the Theologian Greek Orthodox Church | Facebook

ACCESS SERVICES VIA YOU TUBE:
St. Gregory The Theologian Live - YouTube

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Ministries, Programs & Parish Updates

SERVICES FOR OCT 17, SUNDAY OF THE 7TH ECUMENICAL COUNCIL
We look forward to worshipping with you at Saint Gregory, whether in person or remotely. Orthros, 8:30 am; Divine Liturgy, 9:30 am. Youth Religious Education classes are back in session and will begin after Holy Communion. 

STREAMING DETAILS/MEDIA CONNECTIONS FOR OCT 17
Access Services via You Tube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgvnXFV6xK1Nhm8ID84jFNg
Access Services and join our community on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/saintgregorythetheologian
Join our community on Instagram
@saintgregorythetheologian • Instagram photos and videos 

ORTHODOXY 101, OCT 17
In addition to Orthodox Life: "Opening the Door" this fall, we are offering our faithful a straight forward, approachable introduction to Orthodoxy session on select Sundays, following Holy Communion. This is an ideal opportunity for those interested in coming into the Orthodox Faith or just wanting to learn more about the Church. Lou Zagami leads each session following Holy Communion in the classrooms area unless otherwise noted. We look forward to the start of this ministry effort! 

PARISH YOUTH & FAMILY HIKE TO ROCKY NARROWS, OCT 17
Following Sunday School, our children, families and all parishioners are invited to join us for the Parish Youth Hike to Rocky Narrows. Bring your good shoes, supplies and a lunch to eat at “King Philip’s Overlook.” We’ll hike from the Forest St. trailhead in Sherborn at 12:30 pm; as parking is limited, we’ll also have carpooling available from Medfield State Hospital from 12:15 – 12:45 pm. Contact Fr. Alex if you’re planning to join, and he’ll make sure you have directions, a map and carpooling details.

HOPE & JOY PRAYERFUL PUMPKIN CARVING, OCT 24
This fun, faithful event is especiall for our JOY (g. K - 12) and JOY (g. 3 - 6) children (siblings welcome too!). On the 24th, following Divine Liturgy and Sunday School classes, we will host a “Prayerful Pumpkin Carving Event,” full of seasonal fun and with a spiritual message. Pumpkins, candles and limited carving tools will be supplied (parents, please bring some tools from home if you can and plan to help you child(ren) with the carving. If weather permits, we will carve outside. A pizza lunch will be offered! Contact Fr. Alex with your drink or dessert offering—and to reserve your family’s pumpkin: alexanderchetsas@gmail.com

ORTHODOX LIFE: “OPENING THE DOOR,” CONTINUES OCT 27
Many of us have encountered the occult and other unconventional spiritual practices—and we may very well wonder what the Orthodox Church believes, have questions and wonder what guidance is before us. In this informal series, we're looking at everything from the Neo-Pagan and “Teen Witch” movements of the last century, to practices like tarot card reading and channeling, to the “Charlie Charlie Challenge,” Ouija Boards and other phenomena that may lead us to unintentionally open certain spiritual “doors." All are welcome to join us, and no previous experience with Bible study is needed. A simple dinner will be offered each evening (thanks to the Vinton family for sponsoring last week's pizza feast!). All reading material will be supplied. Our next meeting will be on the 27th, 6:30 - 8 pm. Contact Fr. Alex with any questions: alexanderchetsas@gmail.com.

SAINT MODESTOS PET BLESSING, NOV 7
It's time, once again, to invoke God's blessing upon His beautiful creation! The beautiful prayer service will be held from 1 – 1:15 pm, but come any time between 1 and 2 pm. A wonderful photographer will be on hand to capture the moment for you and your special friends. All parishioners and friends from the greater community are welcome. Event is “weather-permitting” & please make sure to pick up after your pet. Thanks, and we look forward to seeing you! Contact Fr. Alex Chetsas: alexanderchetsas@gmail.com; 508.337.9986.

STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY, DEC 5
We have slated this year's Stewardship Sunday event for the 5th. This will be a time for us to learn about the 2022 Stewardship Ministry Program, reflect on our ministries and celebrate our Stewards with a wonderful breakfast. More details to come soon. In addition, as we look toward the conclusion of our 2021 campaign, thanks to all of our Saint Gregory parishioners who have already committed and worked to fulfill their offerings of time, talent and treasure for this year. If you haven't had an opportunity to do so yet, now is an ideal time not only to commit but also enact the financial aspect of your Stewardship. 2021 Commitment Cards can be completed online, and we can also give online via our website Stewardship Page: ​www.saintgregorythetheologian.org/stewardship/. GivePlus is another great option for parish giving: Home | St Gregory The Theologian Church (myvanco.com)

ALTAR SERVER NEWS
We are excited to announce that Co-Captains Greg Douvris, TJ Dimitirou and Miles Kaufman will lead the following Altar teams in 2021 - 22:  

Archangel Michael
Matthew Cromack
Spencer Riley

Archangel Gabriel
Chris Botches
Mario Salzillo
Linus LaFond

ANTIDORON SERVERS MINISTRY
In addition to reading the Epistle, this ministry is a great way for the girls and young women of our parish to actively engage our worship services. Please contact Kyri Stavros to learn more and/or confirm service dates. 

FELLOWSHIP HOUR & SPONSORSHIPS
If you feel comfortable doing so, please join us in the hall for Fellowship Hour following Divine Liturgy after Sunday services. We are grateful for the opportunity to once again enjoy friendship and refreshments in our hall. In addition, all parishioners are invited to pick a special Sunday to sponsor Fellowship Hour this fall. Please sign up this Sunday during Fellowship Hour or simply contact the Church Office. 

CONGREGATIONAL SINGING LEADERS
Singing leaders are needed to help our parish get familiar with our new hymnal, as well as lead congregational singing of the Divine Liturgy this summer and fall. Please contact Fr. Alex to learn more about coming practices and how you can be a part of this vital ministry of Saint Gregory. 

SAINT GREGORY PARISH BOOKSTORE
Parishioners are invited to visit our bookstore on Sundays or by appointment on weekdays by contacting the Church Office. Cathy or Fr. Alex would be happy to help you find that encouraging book, informational pamphlet or meaningful gift for a loved one that you are searching for. 

WHAT'S NEW ON OUR WEBSITE?
Within our Youth Ministry pages, you'll now see two new resources under "Youth and Family Resources": "Saintly Lives" and "For Your Home." Both can be a resources for parents as they strive to bring the life of the Church into their homes. New entries for May will soon be available. 

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
Fr. Alex: Tue. (9 am – 1 pm), Wed. (11 am – 3 pm) & Thur (9 am – 1 pm); or by appointment when convenient for our faithful. Please note that on occasion, Fr. Alex may be seeing to a pastoral situation, visitingn with another parishioner, attending a Metropolis event or otherwise engaged in Church life during office hours. Cathy Cooper: by Appointment. 

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Calendar: Next Two Weeks

  • Saint Gregory Parish Calendar

    October 17 to October 31, 2021

    Sunday, October 17

    8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)

    10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes

    10:30AM Orthodoxy 101

    12:00PM Youth Hike

    Sunday, October 24

    8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)

    10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes

    11:15AM HOPE/JOY Prayerful Pumpkin Carving

    Wednesday, October 27

    6:30PM Orthodox Life: Opening the Door

    Sunday, October 31

    8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)

    10:30AM Orthodoxy 101

    10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes

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Coming Events & News

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Sixth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Luke 24:36-53

At that time, Jesus, having risen from the dead, stood in the midst of his disciples and said to them, "Peace to you." But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? See my hands and feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit has not flesh and bones as you see that I have." And when he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said to them, "Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them.

Then he said to them, "These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled. Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city, until you are clothed with power from on high."

Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and they returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.

Epistle Reading

Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to Titus 3:8-15

Titus, my son, the saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men. But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile. As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned.

When I send Artemas or Tychicos to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful.

All who are with me send greeting to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.

Gospel Reading

Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council
The Reading is from Luke 8:5-15

The Lord said this parable: "A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold." And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, he said, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience." As he said these things, he cried out "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

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Saints and Feasts

Allsaint
October 17

Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council

On the Sunday that falls on or immediately after the eleventh of this month, we chant the Service to the 350 holy Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council, which gathered in Nicaea in 787 under the holy Patriarch Tarasius and during the reign of the Empress Irene and her son, Constantine Porphyrogenitus, to refute the Iconoclast heresy, which had received imperial support beginning with the Edict issued in 726 by Emperor Leo the Isaurian. Many of the holy Fathers who condemned Iconoclasm at this holy Council later died as Confessors and Martyrs for the holy Icons during the second assult of Iconoclasm in the ninth century, especially during the reigns of Leo the Armenian and Theophilus.

Allsaint
October 17

Hosea the Prophet

According to some, Hosea, whose name means "God is help," was from the tribe of Issachar, or more likely, from that of Reuben; he was the son of Beeri. He is the first in order of the twelve minor Prophets and the most ancient of all. He prophesied in the days of the divided Kingdom; the Lord told him to take a harlot to wife (Hosea 1:2), and then an adulteress (ibid., 3:1). The harlot, a known sinner, was a figure of the Kingdom of Israel in Samaria, which openly worshipped idols; the adulteress, lawfully married yet sinning secretly with her lovers, was a figure of the Kingdom of Judah in Jerusalem, which, while having the Temple, and the priesthood, and the divine worship according to the Law, stealthily served the idols also. The Prophet Hosea prophesied for sixty years, and lived for some ninety years, from 810 to 720 B.C. His book is divided into fourteen chapters.

Allsaint
October 17

Holy Martyrs Cosmas and Damian of Arabia

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Wisdom of the Fathers

For by seed here He means His doctrine, and by land, the souls of men, and by the sower, Himself .... For as the sower makes no distinction in the land submitted to him, but simply and indifferently casts his seed; so He Himself too makes no distinction of rich and poor, of wise and unwise, of slothful or diligent, of brave or cowardly; but He discourses unto all, fulfilling His part, although foreknowing the results.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 44 on Matthew 12, 4th Century

When you see life's pleasures, beware that they might not distract you, for they conceal death's snares. Likewise a fisherman casts not his hook to no purpose. As bait for his hook, the enemy uses the delusion of sensuality to arouse desire, that he might thereby catch men's souls and subject them to himself. A soul which has been caught to serve the enemy's will then serves as a snare for other souls, for it conceals the grief of sin with its apparent delight.
St. Ephraim the Syrian
A Spiritual Psalter no 43, pg. 74, 4th century

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Archdiocese News

Stewardship 2022 Resources Now Available Online

10/15/2021

The Department of Stewardship, Outreach, and Evangelism has made new Stewardship resources for 2022 available online.
https://www.goarch.org/-/stewardship-resources-2022

Ionian Village Summer 2022 Program Dates

10/12/2021

The Office of Ionian Village announces the dates for its Summer 2022 programs. Ionian Village is the international camping ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America with campgrounds located in Peloponnesus, Greece.
https://www.goarch.org/-/ionian-village-2022-dates
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Ecumenical Patriarchate News

Announcement of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

09/16/2021

It is announced that the scheduled visit of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to the United States of America will take place from October 23 to November 3, within the framework of health and safety measures due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
https://www.goarch.org/-/ecumenical-patriarch-bartholomew-2021
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