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.
Beloved Parishioners and Friends:
I hope this note finds you well and enjoying some excellent late summer weather. Also, for those whose of our young people whose school days have begun (most of us by now), I hope and pray the first several days of classes and the general experience have gone well. While this time of year is exciting for our children and young adults, it can also be stressful and anxious. If we keep talking to and checking in with our youth, it will go a long way to keeping those lines of communication open, fluid and approachable.
As an added little parental hint, practice asking questions and starting discussions that do not lead to "yes" or "no" answers. For example, rather than saying "did things go alright this week?" try "So tell me about your first class?" or "what games did you play at recess?" It's a lot easier to get a little deeper with our children when we adjust our approach, just a bit.
With those things said, I'm incredibly excited for this Sunday, Sep. 11. As this week's parish call to our households indicated, and as we've been reminding for quite some time in all our communications, this will be an important day for worship, friendship and community at Saint Gregory. Come early to Divine Liturgy; remain with us for the BBQ, GOYA meeting, Sunday School sign up/meet and greet, youth ministry sign ups ... for friendship, games and fun.
I look forward to seeing you, and yours, there. God be with you, and have a peaceful, safe weekend,
Fr. Alex
HOMILY: "Broken but Made Anew"
EPISTLE: Isabella Caradonna. Parishioners of all ages are invited to read the Epistle. Please contact Fr. Alex to choose a date.
TODAY'S ANTIDORON/MYRHHBEARERS SERVICE: Audrey Sweten. Servers are welcome to participate in this ministry throughout the summer. To get involved, contact Fr. Alex.
Schedule:
Sep 11: Audrey Sweten
Sep 18: Elena Salzillo
Sep 25: Isabella Caradonna
TODAY'S ALTAR TEAM: Archangel Michael (Matthew Cromack, AJ Georgilas, Matthew Georgilas and Mario Salzillo). Altar Captain: Chris Botchis; Spencer Riley: Assistant Captain.
ALTAR FLOWERS: Please consider sponsoring Altar flowers on a coming Sunday or feast day. The donation for flower sponsorships is $50. Please contact the Church Office to learn more or sponsor.
FELLOWSHIP HOUR: In lieu of Fellowship Hour, please join us for the parish BBQ! Looking to Sep. 18 and beyond, Fellowship Hour sponsorships are welcome and needed. 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
Second Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Mark 16:1-8
When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint Jesus. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?" And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back - it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples and Peter that He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see Him, as He told you." And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
Sunday before Holy Cross
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 6:11-18
Brethren, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God. Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.
Sunday before Holy Cross
The Reading is from John 3:13-17
The Lord said, "No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man who is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him."
This saint lived in the fifth century. Out of remorse for the adultery that she committed with another man, she fled from her husband's house, renamed herself Theodore, clothed herself as a man, and pretending to be a eunuch, entered a monastery of men. Her identity as a woman was discovered only after her death.
SERVICES FOR SEPTEMBER 4, 12TH SUNDAY OF MATTHEW
We look forward to worshipping with you at Saint Gregory, whether in person or remotely: Orthros, 8:30 am; Divine Liturgy, 9:30 am. Sunday School classes will resume on Sep. 18. Please register your children here for another year of learning and growth in the Orthodox Faith.
STREAMING DETAILS/MEDIA CONNECTIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 4
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 video
WELCOME BACK BBQ & MINISTRY CELEBRATION, SEP 11
Following Divine Liturgy, join us for BBQ (pulled pork, burgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and more) and friendship in celebration of our parish ministries. We will sign up for Sunday School, GOYA (there will also be a GOYA meeting), Myhrrbearers Ministry, Altar Service and other youth ministries; representatives will also be on hand from Philoptochos as part of the fall membership drive. There will also be fun games and activities for our children (and those young at heart). Our younger children, middle and high schoolers are also invited to bring their school backpacks for a special blessing at the close of Divine Liturgy as well (each student will also receive beautiful gift!). Please bring a side or dessert to share with our parish family (no nuts, please). See our flyer or contact Karen Guinan for further details and to confirm your dish: karenguinan@gmail.com.
MOUNT ATHOS EXHIBITION, SEP 13
On Sep 13, beginning at 2 pm (note the time change), there will be a remarkable exhibit about Mount Athos at the Maliotis Cultural Center (Brookline, MA). Join His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, representatives from Mount Athos and clergy and laity from our Metropolis for an inspiring, educational and thought-provoking afternoon and evening. View the flyer for further details and contact information.
SAINT GREGORY 27TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC, SEP 16
Looking to the fall, please save the date of the Saint Gregory 27th Annual Charity Golf Classic—Sep. 16, 2022. Our committee invites you to join us in support of Saint Gregory’s primary fundraising event of the year, helping us advance the holy mission of our parish. Visit our website to learn more, register and sponsor: Please contact Stephan Katinas with any questions: skatinas@comcast.net.
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES BEGIN, SEP 18
Our teachers are excited and enthusiastic about this new year of learning and faith. On the 18th just before Holy Communion, Fr. Alex will bless our children, invoking God’s favor upon their school year. Please register your child, or children, for Sunday School at your earliest convenience, and contact Dionne Katinas (dionnekatinas@comcast.net) with questions or to learn more about our ministry.
PHILOPTOCHOS HYBRID MTG., SEP 18
Following Sunday School (11:30 am) Philoptochos will hold its first fall meeting. This will be a hybrid meeting: all are welcome to join us in person, and a Zoom link will also be provided for virtual participation. Come join this fun and welcoming group! Contact Ann Johnson with questions or to learn more: annjohnson0195@gmail.com.
SAINT GREGORY PARISH BOOKSTORE FALL RE-OPENING, SEP 18
We look forward to re-opening our newly updated store on the 18th! One of the new udpated includes an expanded children''s section. With fall fast approaching, now is the perfect time for you (and your little ones) to curl up with a good book. Our bookstore is open on Sundays after Divine Liturgy, and we have a variety of titles for readers of all ages. Explore selections in topics ranging from prayer guides to the lives of the saints. There is truly something for everyone! Come and see…
ALTAR SERVER & MYRRHBEARERS MINISTRY MTGS., SEP 18
Our Altar servers and Myrrhbearers are invited to respective meetings following Sunday School. Altar service is for ages 10 – 18, and the Myrrhbearers Ministry is for ages 8 – 18 (please talk to Fr. Alex about younger children who are interested). Our boys and girls can come to the church following Sunday School, and a quick bite to eat, to meet with Fr. Alex and other youth leaders.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SUPPORT AND BUILD EVENT, THIS FALL
In other outreach news, Saint Gregory will be participating in the Old Colony Habitat for Humanity Build on Pike Ave. in Attleboro. In connection to a parish “build day” in the fall, we have a fundraising sponsorship goal of $2,500—this donation will actually help pay for the materials of the building project. If you would like to donate and/or express interest in joining us for the build day, please contact Fr. Alex at your earliest convenience. .
USHERING AND "RIDES TO CHURCH" MINISTRIES
This spring and summer, those interested in our Ushering Ministry are invited to contact George Dimitriou: 781-769-2085; Gdimitriou@yahoo.com. Offering yourself as an usher is a wonderful way to meet new people and helps create a welcoming environment at Saint Gregory. Throughout the coming months, we will also reinvigorate our efforts to provide rides to church for anyone who needs one. Once again, contact George Dimitriou if you could use a “lift” or would like to help drive.
LITURGICAL SINGING
This ministry engages musical leadership not only for Sunday liturgy but all the liturgical needs of the year, from Vespers services to Great Lent and Holy Week. Your time and talent is most welcome within our Liturgical Singing Ministry. Please contact Kathy Kalogeras to learn more: kalogeras1@earthlink.net.
STEWARDSHIP 2022
Many thanks to all our 2022 Stewards for standing behind Saint Gregory. Your support of our church—through your time, talent and treasure—is vital to the pursuit of our divine mission: the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you have not yet had an opportunity to complete your 2022 Commitment Card yet, please visit our Stewardship page.
MYRHHBEARERS/ANTIDORON SERVERS MINISTRY
Within the context of our fledling Myrrhbearers Ministry, our girls and young women are invited to hold Antidoro during Divine Liturgy, reading the Epislte and otherwise participate in the entire life of the Church. Please contact Fr. Alex to plan a date for an Epistle reading and/or Antidoro service.
FELLOWSHIP HOUR & SPONSORSHIPS
Join us in the hall for Fellowship Hour following Divine Liturgy after Sunday services. We are also welcoming sponsors for Sundays this summer. Please sign up this Sunday during Fellowship Hour or simply contact the Church Office.
WHAT'S NEW ON OUR WEBSITE?
Within our Youth Ministry pages, you'll soon see two new June 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.
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
Fr. Alex: Tue. (1 pm – 5 pm), Wed. (9 am – 1 pm) & Thur (9 am – 1 pm); or by appointment when convenient for our parishioners. 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: Tue. (9 am - 1 pm) and
8:30AM Orthros
9:30AM Divine Liturgy
11:30AM Blessing of School Backpacks--bring your child's school backpack to Saint Gregory
11:30AM Welcome Back BBQ/Ministry Celebration
11:30AM GOYA Mtg
2:00PM Mount Athos Exhibition (@Hellenic College)
6:30PM Parish Council
Elevation of the Cross
8:30AM Orthros
9:30AM Divine Liturgy
7:30AM Saint Gregory Golf Tournament
8:30AM Orthros
9:30AM Divine Liturgy
10:30AM 1st Day of Sunday School/blessing of our children
11:30AM Altar Server Mtg
11:30AM Philoptochos Mtg (hybrid)
11:30AM Myrrhbearers Mtg
12:00PM Food & Friends
8:30AM Orthros
9:30AM Divine Liturgy
10:30AM Sunday School classes
11:30AM Parish Pancake Breakfast
11:30AM Dr. Despina Prassas Presentation
Come join us for worship, a delicious BBQ, youth ministry sign ups, games, sports and fun at your Saint Gregory home!
Join His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros in celebration of this magnificent exhibition, sponsored by the Mount Athos Foundation of America and the Mount Athos Center.
Save the date of our annual golf tournament, a great day of fellowship and an important fundraising and charity event for our parish.
Bring your beloved pets to Saint Gregory for this heart-warming event, reminding us that God's holy Creation is worthy of appreciation and blessing.
This clear, illustrative graph outlines some of our current financial struggles, as we strive to proclaim Christ's Gospel at Saint Gregory.
This graph indicates significant trends in Stewardship participation and financial giving, highlighting some of the profound difficulties of the last two years but also reminding us of the dedication of our Stewards.
Enjoy this encouraging, inviting fall greeting from Parish Council President Karen Guinan.
View the list of needed school supplies in support of the Philoptochos Backpack & School Supply Drive in support of Mansfield children and families.
The Town of Mansfield's Mandate Announcement and Supplemental Package
Recommendations & Guidelines Updated Aug 2021
Ionian Village pilgrimage
The Philoptochos members of St. Nicholas Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia wanted to assist Archbishop Elpidophoros’ fundraising efforts for our sisters and brothers in Ukraine.