Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-09-22
Bulletin Contents
Special Services
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Hymns of the Day
Stewardship and Donations
Special Announcements
Upcoming Events
Special Events
Education Programs
Ministries and Organizations
Schedule of Services
Saints and Feasts
Kontakion of the Fallen Asleep
Wisdom of the Fathers
Liturgical Calendar

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Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (408) 246-2770
  • Fax:
  • (408) 246-0143
  • Street Address:

  • 1260 Davis Street

  • San Jose, CA 95126
  • Mailing Address:

  • 986 Chapman Street

  • San Jose, CA 95126

Contact Information

Proistamenos: Rev. Fr. James Kumarelas


[email protected]

Assistant Priest: Rev. Fr. Nebojsa Pantic


[email protected]

Services Schedule

Sundays: 

Orthros at 8:15am followed by Divine Liturgy 9:30am
Church School 9:30 a.m.

Weekdays: Orthros at 8:30am followed by Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m.

Feast Days: see embedded Calendar on website: www.saintnicholas.org

Confessions: Please call Office.

Past Bulletins


Special Services

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:  

HARIKLIA (GLORIA) ASIMOS (4 YRS), wife of George Asimos, sister-in-law of Chrisula Asimos, mother of Denise Yeilding, Lorraine (Chris) Hilty, Sandra Asimos, Barbara Asimos, Michelle (Carlos) Deleon, and grandchildren.

MARIA VLAHOPOULIOTIS (4 YRS), daughter of Bob and Katerina Vlahopouliotis, sister of Korina and George, Chris and Zainab, aunt of Argiri, Bobby, Katerina, Katerina, Sofia, and Bobby and great aunt of Giorgios, Niko, Alexis and Korina

May their memory be eternal.

 

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Niki Danopoulos, Soula Kardaris, and Olga Sarakinis in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

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.

Second Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Μᾶρκον 16:1-8

Διαγενομένου τοῦ Σαββάτου, Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ καὶ Μαρία ἡ τοῦ Ἰακώβου καὶ Σαλώμη ἠγόρασαν ἀρώματα, ἵνα ἐλθοῦσαι ἀλείψωσιν τὸν Ἰησοῦν. Καὶ λίαν πρωῒ τῇ μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων ἔρχονται ἐπὶ τὸ μνημεῖον ἀνατείλαντος τοῦ ἡλίου. Καὶ ἔλεγον πρὸς ἑαυτάς· Τίς ἀποκυλίσει ἡμῖν τὸν λίθον ἐκ τῆς θύρας τοῦ μνημείου; καὶ ἀναβλέψασαι θεωροῦσιν ὅτι ἀποκεκύλισται ὁ λίθος· ἦν γὰρ μέγας σφόδρα. Καὶ εἰσελθοῦσαι εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, εἶδον νεανίσκον καθήμενον ἐν τοῖς δεξιοῖς, περιβεβλημένον στολήν λευκήν, καὶ ἐξεθαμβήθησαν· ὁ δὲ λέγει αὐταῖς· Μὴ ἐκθαμβεῖσθε, Ἰησοῦν ζητεῖτε τὸν Ναζαρηνὸν τὸν ἐσταυρωμένον, ἠγέρθη, οὐκ ἔστιν ᾧδε· ἴδε, ὁ τόπος ὅπου ἔθηκαν αὐτόν, ἀλλ' ὑπάγετε, εἴπατε τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ καὶ τῷ Πέτρῳ, ὅτι προάγει ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν· ἐκεῖ αὐτὸν ὄψεσθε, καθὼς εἶπεν ὑμῖν. Καὶ ἐξελθοῦσαι ταχὺ ἔφυγον ἀπὸ τοῦ μνημείου, εἶχε δὲ αὐτὰς τρόμος καὶ ἔκστασις, καὶ οὐδενὶ οὐδὲν εἶπον· ἐφοβοῦντο γάρ.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 4th Mode. Psalm 103.24,1.
O Lord, how manifold are your works. You have made all things in wisdom.
Verse: Bless the Lord, O my soul.

The reading is from St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians 16:13-24.

Brethren, be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. Now, brethren, you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints; I urge you to be subject to such men and to every fellow worker and laborer. I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicos, because they have made up for your absence; for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such men. The churches of Asia send greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. All the brethren send greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. If any one has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Προκείμενον. 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 103.24,1.
Ὡς ἐμεγαλύνθη τὰ ἔργα σου Κύριε, πάντα ἐν σοφίᾳ ἐποίησας.
Στίχ. Εὐλόγει ἡ ψυχή μου τὸν Κύριον.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Κορινθίους α' 16:13-24.

Ἀδελφοί, γρηγορεῖτε, στήκετε ἐν τῇ πίστει, ἀνδρίζεσθε, κραταιοῦσθε. Πάντα ὑμῶν ἐν ἀγάπῃ γινέσθω. Παρακαλῶ δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί - οἴδατε τὴν οἰκίαν Στεφανᾶ, ὅτι ἐστὶν ἀπαρχὴ τῆς Ἀχαΐας, καὶ εἰς διακονίαν τοῖς ἁγίοις ἔταξαν ἑαυτούς - ἵνα καὶ ὑμεῖς ὑποτάσσησθε τοῖς τοιούτοις, καὶ παντὶ τῷ συνεργοῦντι καὶ κοπιῶντι. Χαίρω δὲ ἐπὶ τῇ παρουσίᾳ Στεφανᾶ καὶ Φουρτουνάτου καὶ Ἀχαϊκοῦ, ὅτι τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα οὗτοι ἀνεπλήρωσαν. Ἀνέπαυσαν γὰρ τὸ ἐμὸν πνεῦμα καὶ τὸ ὑμῶν· ἐπιγινώσκετε οὖν τοὺς τοιούτους. Ἀσπάζονται ὑμᾶς αἱ ἐκκλησίαι τῆς Ἀσίας· ἀσπάζονται ὑμᾶς ἐν κυρίῳ πολλὰ Ἀκύλας καὶ Πρίσκιλλα, σὺν τῇ κατʼ οἶκον αὐτῶν ἐκκλησίᾳ. Ἀσπάζονται ὑμᾶς οἱ ἀδελφοὶ πάντες. Ἀσπάσασθε ἀλλήλους ἐν φιλήματι ἁγίῳ. Ὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ Παύλου. Εἴ τις οὐ φιλεῖ τὸν κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν, ἤτω ἀνάθεμα. Μαρὰν ἀθά. Ἡ χάρις τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ μεθʼ ὑμῶν. Ἡ ἀγάπη μου μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ. Ἀμήν.

Gospel Reading

1st Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 5:1-11

At that time, as Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets." And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." For he was astonished, and all who were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men." And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

1st Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 5:1-11

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἑστὼς ὁ Ἰησοῦς παρὰ τὴν λίμνην Γεννησαρέτ, καὶ εἶδε δύο πλοῖα ἑστῶτα παρὰ τὴν λίμνην· οἱ δὲ ἁλιεῖς ἀποβάντες ἀπ᾿ αὐτῶν ἀπέπλυναν τὰ δίκτυα. ἐμβὰς δὲ εἰς ἓν τῶν πλοίων, ὃ ἦν τοῦ Σίμωνος, ἠρώτησεν αὐτὸν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς ἐπαναγαγεῖν ὀλίγον· καὶ καθίσας ἐδίδασκεν ἐκ τοῦ πλοίου τοὺς ὄχλους. ὡς δὲ ἐπαύσατο λαλῶν, εἶπε πρὸς τὸν Σίμωνα· ἐπανάγαγε εἰς τὸ βάθος καὶ χαλάσατε τὰ δίκτυα ὑμῶν εἰς ἄγραν. καὶ ἀποκριθεὶς ὁ Σίμων εἶπεν αὐτῷ· ἐπιστάτα, δι᾿ ὅλης τῆς νυκτὸς κοπιάσαντες οὐδὲν ἐλάβομεν· ἐπὶ δὲ τῷ ῥήματί σου χαλάσω τὸ δίκτυον. καὶ τοῦτο ποιήσαντες συνέκλεισαν πλῆθος ἰχθύων πολύ· διερρήγνυτο δὲ τὸ δίκτυον αὐτῶν. καὶ κατένευσαν τοῖς μετόχοις τοῖς ἐν τῷ ἑτέρῳ πλοίῳ τοῦ ἐλθόντας συλλαβέσθαι αὐτοῖς· καὶ ἦλθον καὶ ἔπλησαν ἀμφότερα τὰ πλοῖα, ὥστε βυθίζεσθαι αὐτά. ἰδὼν δὲ Σίμων Πέτρος προσέπεσε τοῖς γόνασιν ᾿Ιησοῦ λέγων· ἔξελθε ἀπ᾿ ἐμοῦ, ὅτι ἀνὴρ ἁμαρτωλός εἰμι, Κύριε· θάμβος γὰρ περιέσχεν αὐτὸν καὶ πάντας τοὺς σὺν αὐτῷ ἐπὶ τῇ ἄγρᾳ τῶν ἰχθύων ᾗ συνέλαβον, ὁμοίως δὲ καὶ ᾿Ιάκωβον καὶ ᾿Ιωάννην, υἱοὺς Ζεβεδαίου, οἳ ἦσαν κοινωνοὶ τῷ Σίμωνι. καὶ εἶπε πρὸς τὸν Σίμωνα ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς· μὴ φοβοῦ· ἀπὸ τοῦ νῦν ἀνθρώπους ἔσῃ ζωγρῶν. καὶ καταγαγόντες τὰ πλοῖα ἐπὶ τὴν γῆν, ἀφέντες ἅπαντα ἠκολούθησαν αὐτῷ.

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 4th Mode

When the women Disciples of the Lord had learned from the Angel the joyful message of the Resurrection and had rejected the ancestral decision, they cried aloud to the Apostles triumphantly: Death has been despoiled, Christ God has risen, granting His great mercy to the world.
Τὸ φαιδρὸν τῆς Ἀναστάσεως κήρυγμα, ἐκ τοῦ Ἀγγέλου μαθοῦσαι αἱ τοῦ Κυρίου Μαθήτριαι, καὶ τὴν προγονικὴν ἀπόφασιν ἀπορρίψασαι, τοῖς Ἀποστόλοις καυχώμεναι ἔλεγον· Ἐσκύλευται ὁ θάνατος, ἠγέρθη Χριστὸς ὁ Θεός, δωρούμενος τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion for Hieromartyr Phocas in the 4th Mode

As a sharer of the ways and a successor to the throne of the Apostles, O inspired of God, thou foundest discipline to be a means of ascent to divine vision. Wherefore, having rightly divided the word of truth, thou didst also contest for the Faith even unto blood, O Hieromartyr Phocas. Intercede with Christ our God that our souls be saved.
Καί τρόπων μέτοχος, καί θρόνων διάδοχος, τών Αποστόλων γενόμενος, τήν πράξιν εύρες Θεόπνευστε, εις θεωρίας επίβασιν, διά τούτο τόν λόγον τής αληθείας ορθοτομών, καί τή πίστει ενήθλησας μέχρις αίματος, Ιερομάρτυς Φωκά, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 2nd Mode

O Protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame, mediation unto the creator most constant: O despise not the voices of those who have sinned; but be quick, O good one, to come unto our aid, who in faith cry unto thee: Hasten to intercession and speed thou to make supplication, O thou who dost ever protect, O Theotokos, them that honor thee.
Προστασία τῶν Χριστιανῶν ἀκαταίσχυντε, μεσιτεία πρὸς τὸν Ποιητὴν ἀμετάθετε. Μὴ παρίδῃς ἁμαρτωλῶν δεήσεων φωνάς, ἀλλὰ πρόφθασον, ὡς ἀγαθή, εἰς τὴν βοήθειαν ἡμῶν, τῶν πιστῶς κραυγαζόντων σοι· Τάχυνον εἰς πρεσβείαν, καὶ σπεῦσον εἰς ἱκεσίαν, ἡ προστατεύουσα ἀεί, Θεοτόκε, τῶν τιμώντων σε.
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Stewardship and Donations

ST. NICHOLAS STEWARDSHIP 2024

Stewardship 2024 as of September 17, 2024:

Goal: $491,000 (Approved 2024 Budget with tentative stretch goal of $500,000)
Pledged: $404,222
Pledges Paid: $334,390
Average Pledge: $1,229
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $69,833
Number of Stewards Pledging: 329

Stewardship 2023 on September 21, 2023 for comparison purposes:

Goal: $500,000 ($3000 per Stewardship Family, as an average)
Pledged: $431,669
Pledges Paid: $358,830
Average Pledge: $1,289
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $72,869
Number of Stewards Pledging: 335

Please continue to keep our Saint Nicholas Church in your thoughts and prayers throughout 2024. 

Dedicate yourself to Christ and His mission here at Saint Nicholas.  Look for opportunities to volunteer your time and talents, and pay toward your 2024 commitment pledge. 

Not a Steward of Saint Nicholas?  Please prayerfully consider becoming a Steward by completing the 2024 Stewardship Commitment Card.  You may also submit your commitment either online or by mailing it to the Church Office.

To give by mail: Stewardship 

                        St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
                        986 Chapman Street
                        San Jose, CA 95126

To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship link:  https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/80/responses/new

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donate

Company Matching Donations: many companies offer some type of philanthropic program in which a company may financially match donations that their employees make to nonprofit organizations. When an employee makes a donation, they will request the matching gift from their employer to the specific nonprofit organization. If you are interested to learn more about Company Matching Donations at work, please inquire with your Company's Human Resources Department if it offers a similar program. Please note that Saint Nicholas Church would be identified in a Company Matching Program as "Greek Orthodox Community of Santa Clara County". 

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church is a 501©3 Corporation and our tax ID is 94-1578745. 


LIGHT A CANDLE

In our Light A Candle program, vigil candle(s) are lit along with an opportunity to submit names to be prayed for at the Prothesis (Preparation) for forty days. Only Orthodox Christian first names (baptismal names) should be submitted.  It is important to separate the names of the living and the reposed.  When lit, the vigil candles last for one week.  Please see the online form on our website or use the link below.  

Donate online here: https://saintnicholas.org/virtual-chapel/light-a-candle 

If you would prefer to mail in your request, please write the name(s) for whom the candle(s) will be lit and send to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Attention: Light a Candle, 986 Chapman Street, San Jose, CA 9126.  For more information, please call the church office.


DONATIONS VIA FACEBOOK

We are a registered non-profit on Facebook and you can donate any time (without any fees for the church) by pressing the donate button in this link:  https://www.facebook.com/SaintNicholasOrg/


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Special Announcements

GILROY FAMILY FELLOWSHIP

We are embarking on a new ministry opportunity for families living along the 101 corridor, south of San Jose! 

Any families or individuals who would like to join us for a once a month ministry opportunity for fellowship and faith based lessons for the whole family, can contact Fr. Nebojsa for more information at [email protected].  

Our first gathering will be this Sunday, September 22nd at 5pm.  To RSVP and receive a location address please contact Fr. Nebojsa due to limited space for this first gathering.  We hope to provide new locations and ministry activities every month. 


ORTHODOXY 101: THE LORD'S PRAYER

Anyone interested in learning more about their faith is invited to join Fr. Nebojsa Pantic on Monday nights from 6:15-7:00pm.  

This semester will include a Patristic Survey of the commentaries on the Lord’s Prayer.  You can join us in-person at the Conference Room in the Office, or online via Zoom:   https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7084362224 

We will begin on Monday, September 23rd at 6:15 pm (following the 5pm Paraklisis Service). 


BYZANTINE MUSIC CLASS

Anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of Byzantine Music is invited to join Fr. Nebojsa on Monday nights at 7:00 pm, beginning September 23rd.  

We will be learning the fundamentals of theory as well as Byzantine Notation itself.  For further information please contact [email protected] 


FREE LIVE SCAN (FINGER PRINTING) FOR ALL STAFF/VOLUNTEERS THAT WORK WITH YOUTH - SUNDAY, SEPT. 29TH

With the new California State law on mandated reporting for all youth staff workers/volunteers, Saint Nicholas is required to comply with background checks, training (annually) and fingerprinting.   We are happy that many of our youth staff workers/volunteers have already complied with the mandate.

However, for those who have not yet completed the process, Saint Nicholas is graciously offering another fingerprinting service on Sunday, September 29th from 11:30am - 3:00 pm.   Important: only those that have fulfilled the Archdiocese online account set up, Code of Conduct, background check, and training module will be allowed to get fingerprinted.  

We encourage all youth staff workers/volunteers, who have not already done so, to sign up to comply with these legal requirements. 

To reserve a spot or if you need any assistance, please contact Angie Markolefas at 408-891-4314 or email at [email protected].


ALTAR BOY GROUP REGISTRATION 2024-2025

Any altar servers ages 7 and up are welcome to register for our 2024-2025 ecclesiastical year of service:

https://www.saintnicholas.org/altar-servers

Please note that there are a few new expectations and requirements for altar servers this year.  We will be having trainings in October to go over the rules and expectations, but in the meantime you can contact Fr. Nebojsa for more information if interested.  For scheduling questions or concerns please contact Penny Pagonis.  

The first day of Altar Service is September 15th.  Groups will be sent individual messages in regards to their service dates and calendars.  PLEASE REGISTER so we can accurately put you in a group.  


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Upcoming Events

HOPE/JOY - ICE CREAM SOCIAL THIS SUNDAY!

We would to invite all Kindergarten through 5th grade students to participate in our HOPE/JOY ministry for the upcoming school year. The objective of this youth ministry is to educate the children of our community through priest-led lessons and fun age-appropriate activities.  We strive to meet once a month. The following are our scheduled activities for the remainder of the year:

Sunday, September 22, 2024, 11:30-12:00p.m.: Ice cream social in Gym/Community Center. Will end at 12 pm sharp so that En Horo can have their scheduled Greek dance practice. 

Friday, October 11, 2024, 7-9 p.m.: Join us for a movie night and discussion with Father Nebo in Room 3 of the Sunday School Building. We will screen Frozen and have a discussion about the importance of family and the treatment of our siblings. Parents, you are free to drop off and have a date night but please arrive no later than 9:10 p.m.  Popcorn and drinks will be served. Feel free to bring your own snacks as well. 

Saturday, November 16, 2024, 12-3 p.m.: HOPE/JOY youth retreat in small hall. Additional details to follow.  

Friday, December 13, 2024: Christmas Cookie decorating and hot cocoa in Room 3 of the Sunday School building. 

Please reach out to Helene Panos with any questions: 209.324.4918 or [email protected].


VOLUNTEERING AT SECOND HARVEST

Putting our Orthodox Faith into action! Join us at Second Harvest Food Bank the 4th Tuesday of every month, 6pm to 8pm, to prepare food for distribution in our Santa Clara County community.  One in five families in Santa Clara County faces food insecurity.  Help us serve our community while enjoying the fellowship of our Parishioners!  Advance registration is required; vaccination is suggested but not required; open to ages 12 and up. 

We invite you to sign up in advance for Tuesday, September 24, 2024 using the link:  

https://www.shfb.org/give-help/volunteer/volcalendar-general/?shift_id=a0vQo000009v57aIAA


GOLDEN YEARS MEETING

Save the date! The next Golden Years meeting is on Tuesday, October 8th in the Small Hall at 11:30am.   Please contact Christina Kouvaris at 408-306-8007 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.


MISSIONS MINISTRY MOVIE AND MEZZE NIGHT!

Please save the date for a fun Movie and Mezze Night, on Saturday October 12th at 5:30pm in the Community Center.  The movie will be announced soon and is open to all.  Please invite your friends.  Refreshments, wine, and Greek mezze will be served.  It will be open donations with proceeds to benefit Sister Nektaria and her school projects in India.  

For planning purposes RSVP is requested but not required, at [email protected] or by text at 408-425-6967.  See you at the movies!


MONASTERY OF THE HOLY THEOTOKOS, THE LIFE GIVING SPRING FUNDRAISER

Sunday, November 3rd! - Monastery Fundraiser Dinner

Gerontissa Markella and her Sisterhood joyfully, with hope and thanksgiving for your constant support and many years of commitment, invite you to join us again for a Benefit Dinner.  The Monastery of the Theotokos of the Life Giving Spring Fundraising Dinner will be on Sunday, November 3rd at the St. Nicholas Community Center at 5:00pm. 

Donation for tickets for adults $75, children 12 and under $35.  All proceeds go to Monastery for essential support to the operation of the Monastery facility.  

For details or to RSVP, please contact Evagelia at: (408)499-3939, email at [email protected].  Also please see flyer and ticket form in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.


SENIOR RESORT CAMP - ST. NICHOLAS RANCH

Senior Resort Camp is being held September 30th to October 3rd at the St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap California. If you are interested in attending and if you can drive please contact: Christine Kouvaris: 408-306-8007/[email protected] or Laurie Sahines: 408-823-0111/[email protected].  For more information, please see the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.


YOUNG ADULT FALL RETREAT - ST. NICHOLAS RANCH

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will present a Young Adult Fall Retreat from Friday, October 4 – Sunday, October 6, 2024 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA.

Join with other Orthodox young adults from throughout the west for a weekend of fellowship, prayer and inspiring presentations. The retreat theme for this year’s Young Adult Fall Retreat is “The Power of Forgiveness” and will feature Rev. Father Nebojsa Pantic as the guest speaker. Father Nebojsa currently serves as the Assistant Priest at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose, CA. As part of his presentation, Father Nebojsa will explore the depth and meaning of this verse from Psalm 23, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life . . .”

Open to all Orthodox College Students and Young Professionals, ages 18-30’s. Participants should plan to arrive at the Ranch after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4, with dinner being served at 6:30 p.m. The retreat program will begin that evening at 8:30 p.m. Saturday will offer a full day of presentations and activities, including a work project at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring. Our weekend will culminate with Divine Liturgy at the Monastery, followed by breakfast, with the retreat concluding around 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6. There is a NEW optional addition to the retreat – Friday Excursion and Hike Adventure Package. Arrival will be on Thursday, October 3.

To register: https://gosfyouth.org/youngadults#/young-adult-fall-retreat   See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.


EIGHT DATES MARRIAGE PROGRAM OFFERED THIS FALL - REGISTER TODAY - VIRTUAL

The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries invite all couples to participate in the upcoming "Eight Dates" marriage program. Presented for the fourth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman.

Any couple wanting to improve their communication and connection can benefit from this lively and evidence-based program, where the Family Wellness Ministry team integrates the riches of our Orthodox Faith into each presentation. Couples will meet online every other Thursday and are encouraged to connect on their “8 Dates,” engaging in essential conversations during the following weeks.

Register by September 11th: www.familywellnessministry.org/eight-dates

Sessions begin: Thursday, September 19th at 6:30 p.m. (Pacific) via Zoom

Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your relationship!


VOLLEYBALL PRACTICES

Volleyball practices for our 19th Annual St Nicholas Volleyball Tournament begin Sunday, August 18th at 7pm in the Community Center.  Please join us!

Tuesday Nights
7:00 pm - Young Adult & Adult Practices

Thursday Nights
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm - Junior High
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm - High School 

Sunday Nights
7:00pm - Open Gym practices for High School, Young Adult and Adult

If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Chairman George Spilios (408) 806-1699 or Head Coach Elias Papas (408) 497-4522.

Come join the fun!  The Volleyball Tournament is scheduled for the weekend of October 18-20th.


ADULT OPEN GYM BASKETBALL

Adult Open Gym Basketball is every Wednesday at 7:30pm in the Community Center.  All parishioners (including guests) must sign up first before participating; online sign up form is at the link below.  All communications will be handled through WhatsApp where there will be live updates on the day of the event; link down below to join.

Adult Open Gym sign up form: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/95/responses/new

Adult Open Gym guidelines: 

https://docs.google.com/file/d/1Pqh-9ytke7trggbRvI-t0IW4sHL22Re4/edit?usp=docslist_api&filetype=msword

Adult Open Gym WhatsApp group chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExKTcpbEo7oBPOR3Ssfi1P


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Special Events

    Monastery Fundraiser Dinner - Sunday, Nov 3rd - Community Center

    Monastery Fundraiser Dinner - Sunday, Nov 3rd - Community Center

    Gerontissa Markella and her Sisterhood joyfully, with hope and thanksgiving for your constant support and many years of commitment, invite you to join us again for a Benefit Dinner. The Monastery of the Theotokos of the Life Giving Spring Fundraising Dinner will be on Sunday, November 3rd at the St. Nicholas Community Center at 5:00pm. Donation for tickets for adults $75, children 12 and under $35. All proceeds go to Monastery for essential support to the operation of the Monastery facility. For details or to RSVP, please contact Evagelia at: (408)499-3939, email at [email protected].

    Senior Resort Camp! Fall into Fun - Sept 30th - Oct 3rd - Dunlap

    Senior Resort Camp! Fall into Fun - Sept 30th - Oct 3rd - Dunlap

    Attached please find a flyer introducing you to a Senior Resort Camp being held in honor of the memory of Father Tom Paris. It is being held beginning September 30th and ending on October 3rd at the St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap California. If you are interested in attending and if you can drive please contact: Christine Kouvaris: 408-306-8007/[email protected] or Laurie Sahines: 408-823-0111/[email protected].

    Young Adult Fall Retreat - Fri. Oct 4th - Sun. Oct 6th - St. Nicholas Ranch - Dunlap - Featuring Fr. Nebojsa as Guest Speaker

    Young Adult Fall Retreat - Fri. Oct 4th - Sun. Oct 6th - St. Nicholas Ranch - Dunlap - Featuring Fr. Nebojsa as Guest Speaker

    The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will present a Young Adult Fall Retreat from Friday, October 4 – Sunday, October 6, 2024 at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. Join with other Orthodox young adults from throughout the west for a weekend of fellowship, prayer and inspiring presentations. The retreat theme for this year’s Young Adult Fall Retreat is “The Power of Forgiveness” and will feature Rev. Father Nebojsa Pantic as the guest speaker. Father Nebojsa currently serves as the Assistant Priest at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose, CA. As part of his presentation, Father Nebojsa will explore the depth and meaning of this verse from Psalm 23, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life . . .” Open to all Orthodox College Students and Young Professionals, ages 18-30’s. Participants should plan to arrive at the Ranch after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4, with dinner being served at 6:30 p.m. The retreat program will begin that evening at 8:30 p.m. Saturday will offer a full day of presentations and activities, including a work project at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life-Giving Spring. Our weekend will culminate with Divine Liturgy at the Monastery, followed by breakfast, with the retreat concluding around 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6. There is a NEW optional addition to the retreat – Friday Excursion and Hike Adventure Package. Arrival will be on Thursday, October 3. To register: https://gosfyouth.org/youngadults#/young-adult-fall-retreat.

    Eight Dates Marriage Program Offered This Fall – Register Today! - Virtual

    Eight Dates Marriage Program Offered This Fall – Register Today! - Virtual

    The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Family Wellness Ministry and the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries invite all couples to participate in the upcoming "Eight Dates" marriage program. Presented for the fourth time, this powerful relationship series is based on the book Eight Dates by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. Any couple wanting to improve their communication and connection can benefit from this lively and evidence-based program, where the Family Wellness Ministry team integrates the riches of our Orthodox Faith into each presentation. Couples will meet online every other Thursday and are encouraged to connect on their “8 Dates,” engaging in essential conversations during the following weeks. Register by September 11: www.familywellnessministry.org/eight-dates. Sessions begin: Thursday, September 19 at 6:30 p.m. (Pacific) via Zoom. Don't miss this opportunity to enrich your relationship!

    San Francisco Greek Festival - Sept 20-22

    San Francisco Greek Festival - Sept 20-22

    San Francisco Greek Food Festival! Join Us for a Journey of Greek Culture: September 20, 11am to 9pm; September 21, 11am to 9pm; September 22, 11am to 5pm.

    Serbian Food Festival - Saratoga - Sat & Sun, September 28-29th

    Serbian Food Festival - Saratoga - Sat & Sun, September 28-29th

    On September 28th and 29th is the Serbian Food Fest at St. Archangel Michael in Saratoga. Please see the attached flyer.

    Holy Women of Byzantium - Online Course - Begins October 8th

    Holy Women of Byzantium - Online Course - Begins October 8th

    A live, online course exploring the lives and legacies of Byzantine holy women from the mid-fourth through fifteenth centuries taught by Dr. Anysia Metrakos. Tuesdays, October 8, 15, 22, & 29th, 5:00pm PST. Dr. Metrakos is a historian of the later Roman Empire whose work centers on the impact of Christianity on Roman society, gender, and law. She received her doctorate from the Graduate Group in ancient History and Mediterranean Archaeology from the University of California, Berkeley.

    Explore Your Calling at the "Be Attentive" Retreat - HCHC - Oct 11-13th

    Explore Your Calling at the "Be Attentive" Retreat - HCHC - Oct 11-13th

    Please see the attached flyer. We invite men of any Orthodox Christian jurisdiction who may be considering ordained ministry to come and Be Attentive to God's voice speaking in their life to help discern their vocation. Throughout the event, participants will engage in directed discussions with each other and eminent clergy to deeply investigate what the Church believes about Holy Orders, what her clergy are truly called to do, and the results of faithful servant ministry in the parishes, the Church at large, and the whole world. This retreat is offered to the Glory of God under the auspices of the Holy Cross Memorial Chapel Chaplain.

    Serbian Food Festival - Moraga - Oct 12th

    Serbian Food Festival - Moraga - Oct 12th

    Please join us on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 12 p.m. for a day full of fun entertainment and delicious food at the annual Serbian Food Festival, held by Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church at 1700 School St., Moraga, CA. The festival offers attendees a chance to taste a variety of traditional Serbian dishes and drinks, hear several artists from both Serbia and the US, see numerous educational exhibitions and dance performances, participate in several fun activities, and enjoy many other attractions included in our rich cultural and entertainment program. FREE ADMISSION!

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Education Programs

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES

We are thrilled to welcome you and your children back to Sunday School.  Please ensure your child is registered by September 15th.  You can register your children here: Sunday School—Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.  We look forward to a beautiful year of growth, learning, and community.  Please see our calendar of events for the first half below.

September
22- Sunday School in Session
29 – Sunday School in Session (Spiritual Retreat for K – 3rd grade)

October
6 – Sunday School in Session (Spiritual Retreat 4th – 12th grades)
13 – Sunday School in Session
20 – Sunday School in Session
27 – Family Divine Liturgy

November
3 – Sunday School in Session
10 – Sunday School in Session
17 – Family Divine Liturgy
24 – Sunday School in Session (Christmas Pageant Rehearsal)

December
1 – No Sunday School – Thanksgiving Holiday
8 – Sunday School in Session (Christmas Pageant Rehearsal)
15 – Sunday School in Session (Christmas Pageant Rehearsal)
21 – Saturday Christmas Pageant
22 – Family Divine Liturgy
29 – Christmas Holiday – No Sunday School


VIRTUAL ADULT GREEK LANGUAGE EDUCATION

 We are pleased to announce that Greek School registration for adults is now active!

The registration link is located at:
https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/98/responses/new

Initial meetings for each Adult Education course have been scheduled on the following dates:
** Modern Greek Beginner Level 1: Wednesday, September 4-2024, 7:00 pm.
** Modern Greek Beginner Level 2: Tuesday, September 3-2024, 7:00 pm.
** Modern Greek Level 3, Intermediate/Advanced: Saturday, September 7-2024, 9:00 am.
** New Testament Greek Beginner Level 1: Monday, September 2-2024, 7:00 pm.
** Ancient Greek Beginner Level 1: Friday, September 6-2024, 7:00 pm.

For further information, please contact Dr. Peter Nanopoulos by email ([email protected]) or by phone (408-646-7308).


CENTER OF HELLENIC EDUCATION

Programs Offered:

We offer a wide range of programs to suit various interests and educational needs, including:

School Age Greek Language Classes (3-18 years old)

1. In-person classes: Offered on Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:00 pm - 6:45 pm & Saturdays 10:00 am - 11:45 am.

2. On-Line classes: These classes are time flex and are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays.

Adult Greek Language Classes (18 years and older)

New Testament Greek: Tuesdays 6:30 - 9:00 pm

Intermediate Conversational Greek: Thursdays 6:30 - 9:00 pm

Beginner Conversational Greek: Saturdays 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

For more up-to-date information in regards to the adult Greek classes kindly contact: Dr. Peter Nanopoulos at [email protected] 

Community Activities (All students & families):

In addition to the classes, several assemblies occur annually to celebrate the following national holidays: October 28th (OXI Day), March 25th (Greek Independence Day), Christmas, and the Graduation/End-of-the-school-year party. Parents and other family members attend or participate in the gathering, while the students recite poems, skits, songs, and dances.

How to Register:

  1. Complete the Online Registration Form: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/98/responses/new

Important Dates:

  • Classes Begin: Monday, August 26, 2024

We look forward to welcoming you to a vibrant and engaging academic year!


DID YOU KNOW?

New from the Department of Religious Education of our Archdiocese!  Take a look:  https://www.goarch.org/departments/religioused/didyouknow


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Ministries and Organizations

LOST AND FOUND

If you have lost an item and suspect you have left it on church grounds, please check the spot you may have left it the next time you are at church.  You can also call the Church Office at 408-246-2770 to see if it was turned in.  Lost items will be released to the person claiming to be the owner that has provided details to identify the item.  Items brought to the Church Office will be kept for 60 calendar days and then discarded or donated if not claimed.  Thank you!


CANON OF FAITH - SEPTEMBER 2024

Please read the Canon of Faith for September 2024 using the online link viewing:    

https://indd.adobe.com/view/e4771349-653e-4851-89f5-b77d4dd0aad1


YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Sunday School

Register here for the new year: https://www.saintnicholas.org/sunday-school-2   - Register now! Link has been updated!

Greek Folk Dance

Information and registration for our Dance program here:  https://www.saintnicholas.org/greek-dance

Greek School

Our Greek School is up and running again this year with both in-person and online classes for all ages and levels.  

Registration link: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/98/responses/new (updated!)

Basketball 

Information and registration here:   https://www.saintnicholas.org/basketball (updated!)

Altar Servers:   

Any young men over the age of 7 and interested in serving the altar are invited to join one of our Altar Groups for the next ecclesiastical year. 

Please register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/112/responses/new (updated!)

GOYA

GOYA is a ministry for children from 6th - 12th grades.  We meet every 2nd Sunday of the month and have social events throughout the year, as well as sessions and retreats.  For more information please visit our site:  https://www.saintnicholas.org/goya

Register here:  https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/66/responses/new

JOY/HOPE

JOY/HOPE is a ministry for children from Kindergarten to 5th Grade and open to all. We meet every 3rd Tuesday of the Month in the evening at 7:00pm.  For more information visit our site:  https://www.saintnicholas.org/joyhope  

Register here:  https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/67/responses/new


A HOME FOR ICONS

We are collecting unwanted paper icons, wooden icons, and palms that require disposing, please drop off in the baby room in the Church.  There is a plastic bin located underneath the pew.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Julie via email: [email protected].

Please contact the church office at 408-246-2770 if you plan to leave items outside the office or Community Center.


GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA

If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call.  Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva:   Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124  

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries:   Maria Tsaboukos  408-723-5175      Antonia Komianos  408-472-3888     Marcella Fotis  408-723-4124.

For artoklasia:  Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888   Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124   

For prosphora:  Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124


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Schedule of Services

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE. 

 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/   

Sunday, September 22 - 1st Sunday of Luke
8:15am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, September 23
5:00pm - Paraklesis to the Theotokos

Thursday, September 26 - The Falling Asleep of St. John the Evangelist and Theologian
8:30am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, September 29 - 2nd Sunday of Luke
8:15am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

LIGHT A CANDLE: https://saintnicholas.org/virtual-chapel/light-a-candle

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

At our parish we use an online tool for all of our Liturgical services called Ages Initiatives. Please know that we always encourage participation through the praying of the services, and this online resource is the primary resource we use at the chant stand and the Altar.  To access services, please check out the daily calendar available on Ages: 

https://dcs.goarch.org/goa/dcs/dcs.html

Also, there is an Application that you can use and download on the Apple platform:  

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/digital-chant-stand/id891132857

Please also note that you can use this resource for the services we have in our church, and that we will be using this resource as well. 

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Saints and Feasts

September 22

1st Sunday of Luke

September 22

Phocas the Martyr, Bishop of Sinope

This saint was known for the many miracles he worked and for his apostolic zeal in shepherding the flock of Sinope. He contested for the Faith during the reign of the Emperor Trajan, in the year 102, when he was burned to death in a bath-house. A homily in his honour was composed by Saint John Chrysostom. The translation of his holy relics is celebrated on July 23.

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Kontakion of the Fallen Asleep

Remember, O Lord, as good, your servants, and forgive whatever sins in life they committed, for no one is without sin, except you the Mighty One; and grant rest to them who have been removed from among us.

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Wisdom of the Fathers

For now they were well instructed beforehand...But mark both their faith and their obedience. For though they were in the midst of their work when they heard His command, they delayed not, they procrastinated not, they said not, "let us return home, and converse with our kinsfolk," but "they forsook all and followed."
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 14 on Matthew 4, 4th Century

Because such is the obedience which Christ seeks of us, as that we delay not even a moment of time, though something absolutely most needful should vehemently press on us.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 14 on Matthew 4, 4th Century

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