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.
Dearest Parishioners and Friends:
I hope and pray your Nativity Lenten journey has been a powerful one thus far. As I wrote to you last week, this is a joyful fast, a time for reflection, forgiveness and great hope, as we approach the coming of the Christ Child on Dec. 25.
With these things in mind, I heartily invite you to participate in our parish's outreach events in the days to come. Compassion for, and ourtreach toward, those who need us most is a huge part of our Lenten journey, and we can enact this vital aspect of our spiritual development by supporting both the Thanksgiving Meal Drive and the Giving Tree. The Thanksgiving effort finishes this Sunday (please see the donation list within the "Ministries, Programs & Parish Updates" section of the eBulletin) and the Giving Tree project finishes on Nov. 28.
It's wonderful to act on behalf of those in need individually, within, say, our familes and schools, but it is also very important that we act as a parish family, connecting the words of our worship to the concrete realities of everyday life.
Please help in the ways that you can. In fact, if you might be free on Sunday afternoon or Monday morning, you can help me take our Thanksgiving meal packages where they need to go--please contact me directly.
A blessed weekend to you and an early "Happy Thanksgiving,"
Fr. Alex
HOMILY: "Philoptochos Sunday" Event
EPISTLE READER: John Chani. 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.
MEMORIALS: Theodoros (1 yr.), Alexandra (28 yrs.) and Haralambos (8 months) Dimitriou. May their memory be eternal!
ANTIDORON SERVER: Kyri Stavros. Servers are welcome to participate in this ministry throughout the summer. To get involved, contact Kyri Stavros: kyri910@icloud.com
TODAY'S ALTAR TEAM: Altar Group Archangel Gabriel: C. Botchis, L. LaFond & M. Salzillo; 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: Sponsored by the Dimitriou Family. 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: Sponsored by the Dimitriou Family. 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
The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
The Reading is from Luke 1:39-49, 56
In those days, Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord."
And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name." And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her home.
The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 9:1-7
BRETHREN, the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; it is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain stood a tent called the Holy of Holies, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, which contained a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. These preparations having thus been made, the priests go continually into the outer tent, performing their ritual duties; but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood which he offers for himself and for the errors of the people.
The Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
The Reading is from Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28
At that time, Jesus entered a village; and a woman called Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve you alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her." As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!" But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"
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.
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.
Philemon, who was from Colossae, a city of Phrygia, was a man both wealthy and noble; Apphia was his wife. Archippus became Bishop of the Church in Colossae. All three were disciples of the Apostle Paul. Onesimus, who was formerly an unbeliever and slave of Philemon, stole certain of his vessels and fled to Rome. However, on finding him there, the Apostle Paul guided him onto the path of virtue and the knowledge of the truth, and sent him back to his master Philemon, to whom he wrote an epistle (this is one of the fourteen epistles of Saint Paul). In this epistle, Paul commended Onesimus to his master and reconciled the two. Onesimus was later made a bishop; in Greece he is honoured as the patron Saint of the imprisoned. All these Saints received their end by martyrdom, when they were stoned to death by the idolaters. Saint Onesimus is also commemorated on February 15.
SERVICES FOR NOV 21, ENTRANCE OF THE THEOTOKOS
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. Parents, please note that when classes meet indoors both teachers and students are kindly asked to wear masks).
STREAMING DETAILS/MEDIA CONNECTIONS FOR NOV 21
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
PHILOPTOCHOS BAKE SALE, NOV 21
Today is the big day! Thank you to all our dedicated members who have been busily baking and preparing for this important fundraiser. During Fellowship Hour after services, cakes, cookies, pies, pastries, candies, breads and more will be on sale, just in time for Thanksgiving. Come see us and thanks for your support!
ORTHODOXY 101, NOV 21
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. Lou is also very willing to continue these discussions individually and/or in small group meetings in the weeks and months to come. Please contact him if you are interested: lzagami@comcast.net.
CONGREGATIONAL SINGING PRACTICE, NOV 21
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 wonderful group has been making great progress in learning the new hymnal, and our next gathering is the 14th following services. Future practices include Nov 21, following Divine Liturgy. Please contact Kathy Kalogeras (kathleenkalogeras@gmail.com) to learn more about coming practices and how you can be a part of this vital ministry of Saint Gregory.
PHILOPTOCHOS THANKSGIVING DRIVE CLOSES, NOV 21
This is the last day to help us donate 30 meals to the Middlesex Sheriff's Association Meal Drive. Philoptochos is donating all the turkeys and pies and has been assisting Fr. Alex with the coordination of gathering other needed food items. Thank you to all who gave in person and via the Target registry over the last several weeks. For those who would still like to offer and would like to make a last minute donation, here is our shopping list:
2 boxes stuffing
2 boxes instant mashed potatoes
2 cans peas
2 cans corn
2 cans green beans
1 can cranberry sauce
2 packages/jars turkey gravy
GOYA OUTREACH, GATHERING AND MORE, NOV 21
After Sunday School, our busy and helpful GOYAns will help organize the 30 Thanksgiving meals for Fr. Alex and will then enjoy a gathering at the Christo home. GOYAns are encouraged to bring a change of clothes for this outdoor gathering, with a cookout, fire pit and other activities on the agenda. Parents, please let Liz Christo know if your GOYAn will join us for the food assembly, can bring cards for the meal packages and/or attend the gathering (hopefully all three!) by noon this Saturday: sensechristo@comcast.net.
CHRISTMAS "GIVING TREE" CONTINUES, NOV 21
The Saint Gregory Giving Tree is back! In support of those served by the Westside Benevolent Circle, we are all invited to receive names from the tree on Sundays during Fellowship Hour--or to use the SignUpGenius link below. There was a lot of excitement around the tree this Sunday and many parishioners picking names. Let's keep that wonderful momentum going! All unwrapped presents are due by Nov. 28. Contact Stacey Mullert with any questions or to learn more: staceymullert13@gmail.com.
SignUpGenius Link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4EA8A72FABFA7-giving1
PARISH COUNCIL CANDIDATE FORMS NOW DUE DEC 1
As of the Nov. 14 deadline, our Elections Committee had only received two candidate forms for the five seats available for 2022. With this in mind and to help fulfill the leadership needs of our parish, the deadline for submitting 2022 Parish Council Candidate Forms has been extended to Dec. 1. Forms can be given to Jack Griffin or Steve Christo, as well as dropped off at the Church Office.
CHRISTMAS PAGEANT REHEARSALS, DEC 5 & 12
We are so excited to be presenting our annual Christmas Pageant live on Sunday, December 19 following Divine Liturgy, and preparations have already begun! It is our sincere hope that all our Sunday School Children will want to participate and be able to barring scheduling conflicts! All children preschool thru grade 3 will be angels or shepherds; Grades 4 -high school will share their beautiful voices in our choir, minus the ones with speaking parts. Please notify your child's teacher if your child will be participating, and we will keep you posted on the rehearsal schedule. For now, please save Sunday December 5 and 12 for a full cast rehearsal in church. We look forward to seeing all our children and families coming together, post pandemic, to reconnect, and renew our community spirit at this very joyous time—thank you for your support!
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/.
PARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY, DEC 12
In addition to our elections, we will hold our "fall" assembly on the 12th following services. Please make plans to join us for this important meeting our parish family. Those participating should be 2021 Stewards of Saint Gregory. Thank you in advance for your participation.
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.
SAINT GREGORY PARISH BOOKSTORE
Parishioners are invited to visit our bookstore on Sundays or by appointment on weekdays by contacting the Church Office. Cathy Cooper or Fr. Alex would be happy to help you find that encouraging book, Christmas gift, informational pamphlet or other meaningful item you've been 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.
"Giving Tree" Cont.
8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)
9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)
10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes
10:30AM Orthodoxy 101
11:30AM Philoptochos Bake Sale
11:30AM Liturgical Singing Practice
11:30AM Thanksgiving Drive concludes
11:30AM "Giving Tree" cont.
12:00PM GOYA Meal Assembly & Cookout Gathering
8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)
9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)
10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes
11:30AM "Giving Tree" concludes
8:30AM Orthros (In Person/Online)
9:30AM Divine Liturgy (In Person/Online)
10:30AM Youth Rel Ed Classes
Saint Nicholas
Support this important outreach effort throughout November, in support of local families who could use a holiday hand.
Saint Andrew is the patron saint of our Metropolis--our whole parish is invited for worship and fellowship.
Send seasonal greetings to our parish family this Christmas! Please return the form to the Church Office at your earliest convenience, and thank you for your kind donation to support this joyful effort.
Recommendations & Guidelines Updated Aug 5, 2021
Recommendations & Guidelines Updated May 2021
This week’s “How-to” Green Your Parish episode features Dr. Christos Durante “Creation Care and Christian Ethics”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwOFKTHKXh8