Saint Gregory the Theologian
Publish Date: 2024-10-27
Bulletin Contents

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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

Fellow Parishioners and Friends:

Last Sunday at Saint Gregory was amazing. Beautiful worship, a moving homily from Lee Morest, Sunday School, the Philoptochos meeting, Orthodoxy 101 session, HOPE/JOY Prayerful Pumpkin event and GOYA outing were all part of the mosaic of a beautiful day. I’m grateful to everyone from our singing leaders to our youth mentors for all they contribute to parish life, for the glory of God and the furtherance of the Holy Gospel.

Looking to this weekend, we’ll look forward to another terrific Sunday with our parish family. Please join us for worship, Sunday School, Fellowship Hour--and our first rehearsal for the Dec. 15th Nativity Pageant.

Special note: I have postponed the Saint Modestos Pet Blessing event to this spring, in light of a possible micro-grant from TCI (Thriving Congregations Initiative). In short, our parish has applied for a fifth micro-grant, which would revolve around an expanded and ambitious version of our current pet blessing event. The grant decision should be made by Christmas, and I want to pause in the event we receive it. Pet and animal lovers, thank you for your patience; I think it will be well worth it. 

See you in Church,

Fr. Alex 

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Sunday Notes

ALTAR SERVERS: Team Archangel Michael (Matthew Cromack, AJ Georgilas and Matthew Georgilas). Cap., Mario Salzillo. 

MYRRHBEARERS: Cap., Eleni LaFond.
27th: Audrey Sweten.

EPISTLE:
Oct. 27th: EleniLaFond.

HOMILY: "Introducing Saint Luke."

MEMORIAL: Lillian Patellis, 1 year. May her memory be eternal!

ALTAR FLOWERS: This week's altar flowers are donated by Vicki French in loving memory of Lillian Patellis. Please consider sponsoring altar flowers for a coming Sunday. The donation for flower sponsorships is $75. Please contact Gina in the church office to learn more or sponsor. 

FELLOWSHIP HOUR: This week's Fellowship Hour is sponsored by the Toppses Family, and friends, in loving memory of Lillian Patellis. All are welcome to join us following Divine Liturgy. This month and beyond, Fellowship Hour sponsors are welcome and needed. Please sign up in the hall this weekend or use our new SignUpGenius link

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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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Seventh Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 20:1-10

On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him." Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying and the napkin, which had been on His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not know the scripture, that He must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went back to their homes.


Epistle Reading

18th Sunday after Pentecost
The Reading is from St. Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians 9:6-11

Brethren, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, "He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever." He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.


Gospel Reading

7th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 8:41-56

At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus' feet he besought him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As he went, the people pressed round him. And a woman who had had a flow of blood for twelve years and had spent all her living upon physicians and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind him, and touched the fringe of his garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, "Who was it that touched me?" When all denied it, Peter and those who were with him said, "Master, the multitudes surround you and press upon you!" But Jesus said, "Some one touched me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from me." And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace." While he was still speaking, a man from the ruler's house came and said, "Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more." But Jesus on hearing this answered him, "Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well." And when he came to the house, he permitted no one to enter with him, except Peter and John and James, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but he said, "Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand he called, saying, "Child, arise." And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and he directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but he charged them to tell no one what had happened.


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Saints and Feasts

October 27

7th Sunday of Luke


October 27

Nestor the Martyr of Thessaloniki

As mentioned in the account concerning Saint Demetrius (October 26), this Saint contested during the reign of Maximian, in the year 290.


October 27

Kyriakos, Patriarch of Constantinople


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Wisdom of the Fathers

For in a contest there is much labor needed--and after the contest victory falls to some, to others disgrace. Is the palm ever given or the crown granted before the course is finished? ... Therefore no one can receive a reward, unless he has striven lawfully; nor is the victory a glorious one, unless the contest also has been toilsome.
St. Ambrose of Milan
Chapter 15, Three Books on the Duties of the Clergy, 4th century

He puts an end to the woman's fear ... He sets her right, in respect of her thinking to be hid ... He exhibits her faith to all, so as to provoke the rest also to emulation ...
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 31 on Matthew 9, 4th Century

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Ministries, Programs & Parish Updates

SERVICES FOR SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27TH, SEVENTH SUNDAY OF LUKE
We look forward to worshipping with you at Saint Gregory: 
Orthros, 8:30 am
Divine Liturgy, 9:30 am
Each week, Sunday School classes begin immediately after Holy Communion. All are warmly invited to join us for refreshments and fellowhip after Divine Liturgy. 

STREAMING DETAILS/MEDIA CONNECTIONS FOR THIS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27TH
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"  

NATIVITY PAGEANT REHEARSAL, NOV. 3RD
Our pageant is slated for Dec. 15th, and it’s time to start getting organized! Mr. Kaufman invites all interested Sunday School students and parents to meet in the library today following classes. Parents may also contact Brian to learn more: [email protected].

ORTHODOXY 101, NOV. 3RD
Several weeks ago, we had a wonderful group for our session focusing on the role of the Theotokos and all the Saints in our lives. Whenever we feel alone, we know God is with us and the entire Church, visible and invisible. Our next meeting on Nov. 3 will focus on what we believe about death and eternal life (pgs. 139 – 163 of Introducing the Orthodox Church). Please join Lee Morest during Fellowship Hour. 

2024 CHRISTMAS CARDS SIGN UP, NOW THROUGH DEC. 7TH
It is that time of year again! From now until December 7th, we will be accepting sign ups for our annual Christmas Card. This is a great way to let your parish family and friends know you are thinking of them all during the holiday season. Please see our flyer for more details and donation information. 

PHILOPTOCHOS VETERANS DRIVE, NOW THROUGH NOV. 3RD
Your offerings of monetary and gift-card donations will be accepted for the Mansfield Office of Veterans Services until Nov. 10th. See a Philoptochos member or contact Ann Johnson to donate: [email protected].

THANKSGIVING DINNER DRIVE, NOW THROUGH NOV. 24TH
For the fourth year, we'll offer a Thanksgiving Dinner Drive for veterans served by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Association, along with local families (Mansfield/Attleboro area). See and share our flyer with family and friends: Thanksgiving Drive FlyerUntil the 24th, we welcome the following food items for drop off in the Narthex, as well as financial donations to purchase food (contact Fr. Alex regarding donations): 
Our goal is 30 dinners: Boxes of stuffing and instant potatoes | Canned cranberry sauce, green beans, peas and corn | Frozen pies | Frozen turkeys (will be collected closer to the 24th).

MEN’S BIBLE STUDY FRIENDSGIVING, NOVEMBER 13TH
After our fruitful planning meeting several weeks ago, we look forward to our first regular gathering on the 13th, 6 – 8 pm. In thanksgiving for our new ministry, we’ll enjoy a potluck meal, reflection and friendship. The evening’s study theme will soon be announced and shared. Please contact Father with your potluck offering of a main/side/dessert.

PARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY, NOVEMBER 17TH
Please save the date of this important meeting of our parish family, immediately following Divine Liturgy. All committed 2024 Stewards are welcome and encouraged to attend.The agenda will soon be shared with our Stewards. 2024 Stewardship materials are available in the Narthex and within the Stewardship page of our parish website: Stewardship Program 2024 | Saint Gregory the Theologian.

FALL BOOKSTORE RECOMMENDATIONS
Our Saint Gregory Bookstore has some wonderful new offerings for the fall. Read all about them here, and visit the bookstore this Sunday.

SERVANT KEEPER GIVING PLATFORM NOW ACTIVE
Our parish has now completed the transition from Vanco to the Servant Keeper giving app. Please see our Stewardship and general Giving pages for all online giving with Servant Keeper. Please note that we are still working to delete some of the former links and references to Vanco within our website; this will take some time, and thanks for your patience. Contact Gina Drugas with any questions.

FALL STEWARDSHIP STATEMENTS NOW AVAILABLE
As always, we are so grateful to all our Stewards for their offerings of time, talent and treasure. Fall statements (sealed hard copies) are now available in the Narthex, and we will soon mail them home to those who have not been able to pick them up from Saint Gregory. Please examine yours carefully, and contact Gina in the church office with any questions.

KOLIVA PREPARATION
At any given time of the year, our faithful will seek help in the preparation of Koliva for memorials. Fellow parishioner Gina Drugas is now offering this service, with a cost of $100 per Koliva plate. Please contact Gina to learn more and make arrangements: [email protected] 

FELLOWSHIP HOUR SIGN-UP RESOURCES
All parishioners are invited to host Fellowship Hour on a coming Sunday. In addition to the sign-up poster in the hall, we can now easily learn more and sign up online. Fellowship Hour is a beloved, significant tradition at our parish that speaks to Christian fellowship and hospitality. Thanks in advance for your support, and contact Fellowship Hour Chair Brian Kaufman with any questions: [email protected]

RIDES TO CHURCH
George Dimitriou, our Driving Ministry chair, would be happy to help you or a loved one make it to Saint Gregory for worship and events. Contact George directly: [email protected]; 781.769.2085.

LOST & FOUND
When parishioners find items about the church, they leave them with the church office. You will find a mail tray labled for lost and found. If you have misplaced a small item, or found one, please stop by the office.

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
Fr. Alex: Tue. & Thur., 9 am - 1 pm. Wed., 1 - 4 pm; or by appointment when convenient for our parishioners. Please note that on occasion, Fr. Alex may be seeing to a pastoral situation, visiting with another parishioner, attending a Metropolis event, or otherwise engaged in Church life during office hours.

Church Secretary Gina Drugas: Monday, Wednesday, & Thursdays: 1 - 3 pm; Fridays 7 am - 11 am. Gina is also available remotely via email or phone on Tuesdays, 8 am - 2 pm. Contact Gina: [email protected]; 508.337.9986.

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Calendar: Next Two Weeks

  • Saint Gregory Parish Calendar

    October 27 to November 10, 2024

    Sunday, October 27

    8:30AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:30AM Sunday School

    11:30AM Thanksgiving Dinner Drive

    11:30AM Philoptochos Veterans Drive

    Sunday, November 3

    8:30AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:30AM Sunday School

    11:30AM Thanksgiving Dinner Drive

    11:30AM S. School Teacher Workshop

    11:30AM Philoptochos Veterans Drive

    Sunday, November 10

    8:30AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:30AM Sunday School/Pageant rehearsal

    11:30AM Philoptochos Veterans Drive (last day)

    11:30AM Thanksgiving Dinner Drive

    11:30AM Philoptochos Mtg

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Coming Events & News

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Archdiocese News

International Orthodox Christian Charities Provides Humanitarian Aid in Lebanon

10/07/2024

As conflict in Lebanon escalates, a humanitarian crisis has emerged as communities continue to flee their homes in search of safety. International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is there on the ground, doing its part to support those who have been displaced. This week, mattresses, hot meals, and emergency first-aid kits were distributed to temporary shelters in north Lebanon, Mount Lebanon, and Beirut.


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