Special Services

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

PETER MOUTZOURIDIS (6 MO), husband of Joanne, father of John Moutzouridis and Athanasia (Paul) Buentello, brother-in-law of Spilios (Vicki) Boumis, grandchildren

IOANNIS AND STAVROULA (ANNUAL), parents of Peter Moutzouridis

ANDREAS AND ATHANASIA (ANNUAL), parents of Joanne Moutzouridis

MARIANNA SOTIRAKIS (1 YR), mother of Evagelia Niktas

ATHANASIOS (THOMAS) BUNDROS (10 YRS), husband of Tina, father of Pam, Zoe, Daphne, Yani, Andoni, and Angeliki, grandchildren

MARINOS VOUTOS (10 YRS), husband of Mavra Voutos, father of Marina, Panagiota, and Denny, grandchildren

May their memory be eternal.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by St. Anna Philoptochos in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for January 19, 2025: Jamie Bakelis, Christina Matheou, Helene Panos, Nicole Perakis, and Eva Vathis

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex**

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.

Seventh Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 20:1-10

Τῇ μιᾷ τῶν Σαββάτων Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ ἔρχεται πρωῒ σκοτίας ἔτι οὔσης, εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον· καὶ βλέπει τὸν λίθον ἠρμένον ἐκ τοῦ μνημείου. Τρέχει οὖν, καὶ ἔρχεται πρὸς Σίμωνα Πέτρον, καὶ πρὸς τὸν ἄλλον μαθητήν, ὃν ἐφίλει ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ λέγει αὐτοῖς· ᾞραν τὸν Κύριον ἐκ τοῦ μνημείου, καὶ οὐκ οἴδαμεν ποῦ ἔθηκαν αὐτόν. Ἐξῆλθεν οὖν ὁ Πέτρος καὶ ὁ ἄλλος μαθητής, καὶ ἤρχοντο εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον. Ἔτρεχον δὲ οἱ δύο ὁμοῦ· καὶ ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς προέδραμε τάχιον τοῦ Πέτρου, καὶ ἦλθε πρῶτος εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, καὶ παρακύψας, βλέπει κείμενα τὰ ὀθόνια· οὐ μέντοι εἰσῆλθεν. Ἔρχεται οὖν Σίμων Πέτρος ἀκολουθῶν αὐτῷ, καὶ εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, καὶ θεωρεῖ τὰ ὀθόνια κείμενα· καὶ τὸ σουδάριον, ὃ ἦν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς αὐτοῦ, οὐ μετὰ τῶν ὀθονίων κείμενον, ἀλλὰ χωρὶς ἐντετυλιγμένον εἰς ἕνα τόπον. Τότε οὖν εἰσῆλθε καὶ ὁ ἄλλος μαθητὴς ὁ ἐλθὼν πρῶτος εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, καὶ εἶδε, καὶ ἐπίστευσεν. Οὐδέπω γὰρ ᾔδεισαν τὴν Γραφήν, ὅτι δεῖ αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν ἀναστῆναι. Ἀπῆλθον οὖν πάλιν πρὸς ἑαυτοὺς οἱ μαθηταί.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 1st Mode. Psalm 32.22,1.
Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us.
Verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians 4:7-13.

BRETHREN, grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it is said, "When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men." (in saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is he who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

Προκείμενον. 1st Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 32.22,1.
Γένοιτο, Κύριε, τὸ ἔλεός σου ἐφ' ἡμᾶς.
Στίχ. Ἀγαλλιᾶσθε δίκαιοι ἐν Κυρίῳ

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἐφεσίους 4:7-13.

Ἀδελφοί, ἑνὶ ἑκάστῳ ἡμῶν ἐδόθη ἡ χάρις κατὰ τὸ μέτρον τῆς δωρεᾶς τοῦ Χριστοῦ. Διὸ λέγει, Ἀναβὰς εἰς ὕψος ᾐχμαλώτευσεν αἰχμαλωσίαν, καὶ ἔδωκεν δόματα τοῖς ἀνθρώποις. Τὸ δέ, Ἀνέβη, τί ἐστιν εἰ μὴ ὅτι καὶ κατέβη πρῶτον εἰς τὰ κατώτερα μέρη τῆς γῆς; Ὁ καταβάς, αὐτός ἐστιν καὶ ὁ ἀναβὰς ὑπεράνω πάντων τῶν οὐρανῶν, ἵνα πληρώσῃ τὰ πάντα. Καὶ αὐτὸς ἔδωκεν τοὺς μὲν ἀποστόλους, τοὺς δὲ προφήτας, τοὺς δὲ εὐαγγελιστάς, τοὺς δὲ ποιμένας καὶ διδασκάλους, πρὸς τὸν καταρτισμὸν τῶν ἁγίων, εἰς ἔργον διακονίας, εἰς οἰκοδομὴν τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ· μέχρι καταντήσωμεν οἱ πάντες εἰς τὴν ἑνότητα τῆς πίστεως καὶ τῆς ἐπιγνώσεως τοῦ υἱοῦ τοῦ θεοῦ, εἰς ἄνδρα τέλειον, εἰς μέτρον ἡλικίας τοῦ πληρώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ.

Gospel Reading

Sunday after Epiphany
The Reading is from Matthew 4:12-17

At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned." From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Sunday after Epiphany
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 4:12-17

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἀκούσας δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς ὅτι ᾿Ιωάννης παρεδόθη, ἀνεχώρησεν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, καὶ καταλιπὼν τὴν Ναζαρὲτ ἐλθὼν κατῴκησεν εἰς Καπερναοὺμ τὴν παραθαλασσίαν ἐν ὁρίοις Ζαβουλὼν καὶ Νεφθαλείμ, ἵνα πληρωθῇ τὸ ῥηθὲν διὰ ῾Ησαΐου τοῦ προφήτου λέγοντος· γῆ Ζαβουλὼν καὶ γῆ Νεφθαλείμ, ὁδὸν θαλάσσης, πέραν τοῦ ᾿Ιορδάνου, Γαλιλαία τῶν ἐθνῶν, ὁ λαὸς ὁ καθήμενος ἐν σκότειεἶδε φῶς μέγα, καὶ τοῖς καθημένοις ἐν χώρᾳ καὶ σκιᾷ θανάτουφῶς ἀνέτειλεν αὐτοῖς. ᾿Απὸ τότε ἤρξατο ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς κηρύσσειν καὶ λέγειν· μετανοεῖτε· ἤγγικε γὰρ ἡ βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν.

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 Theophany Afterfeast in the 1st Mode

When Thou wast baptized in the Jordan, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was made manifest; for the voice of the Father bare witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the certainty of the word. O Christ our God, Who hast appeared and hast enlightened the world, glory be to Thee.

Ἐν Ἰορδάνῃ βαπτιζομένου σου Κύριε, ἡ τῆς Τριάδος ἐφανερώθη προσκύνησις, τοῦ γὰρ Γεννήτορος ἡ φωνὴ προσεμαρτύρει σοί, ἀγαπητὸν σὲ Υἱὸν ὀνομάζουσα, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐν εἴδει περιστεράς, ἐβεβαίου τοῦ λόγου τὸ ἀσφαλές. Ὁ ἐπιφανεῖς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, καὶ τὸν κόσμον φωτίσας δόξα σοί.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode

You appeared to the world today, and Your light, O Lord, has left its mark upon us. With fuller understanding we sing to You: "You came, You were made manifest, the unapproachable light."

Ἐπεφάνης σήμερον τὴ οἰκουμένη, καὶ τὸ φῶς σου Κύριε, ἐσημειώθη ἐφ' ἡμᾶς, ἓν ἐπιγνώσει ὑμνούντάς σε. Ἦλθες ἐφάνης τὸ Φῶς τὸ ἀπρόσιτον.

Stewardship and Donations

BENEFITS AND REASONS OF BECOMING A STEWARD

Some people think they should become a steward of the Church, so they may vote in Parish Assembly Meetings. Others think they should become a steward, so they are eligible for discounted rental rates for the Community Center and Small Hall. Still others think they should become a steward because our Saint Nicholas Church’ s budget needs their money. While it is true that by becoming a steward of the Church, we are eligible to vote, enjoy certain benefits, and obviously our stewardship ministry funds part of the Church budget, these truly are not the reasons WHY we should become stewards. These are perks of being a steward, but not the reasons to become a steward.

Do you love God? Then become a steward of His Church. We become stewards of the Church because we love God, and we love His Church. We want to be part of His mission here on earth and help perpetuate the Church for future generations.

Has God blessed you? Then become a steward of His Church. We become stewards because God has blessed us, and we want to thank Him by giving back.

Since the beginning of time, the way to thank God is to give Him your gifts of time, talent and treasure. The Old Testament is filled with wonderful and inspirational examples for you to consider as ways to thank God.

God bless you for your love and support of our Church and our great community of Saint Nicholas.

DOES YOUR EMPLOYER OFFER MATCHING DONATIONS?

Your employer could be offering Matching Gifts Programs as an easy and structured way for them to support good work in the community. Please ASK your employer if they 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. In order to assist our Saint Nicholas Community, we are kindly asking that you learn more about Company Matching Donations at work by inquiring 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.

ST. NICHOLAS STEWARDSHIP 2024

Stewardship 2025 as of January 9, 2025

Goal: $605,000 (Approved 2025 Budget)
Pledged: $13,966
Pledges Paid: $6,516
Average Pledge: $388
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $7,450
Number of Stewards Pledging: 36

Stewardship 2024 on January 18, 2024 for comparison purposes:

Goal: $491,000 (Approved 2024 Budget with tentative stretch goal of $500,000)
Pledged: $15,770
Pledges Paid: $10,800
Average Pledge: $404
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $4,970
Number of Stewards Pledging: 39

Please continue to keep our Saint Nicholas Church in your thoughts and prayers throughout 2025.

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 2025 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/

Special Announcements

OATH OF OFFICE

On Sunday, January 12th, the continuing and elected members of the Parish Council will be taking the Oath of Office in the church immediately following the Divine Liturgy.

VASILOPITA BLESSING

On Sunday, January 12th, there will be the Blessing of the Vasilopita in honor of the Feastday of St. Basil the Great after the Divine Liturgy.

HOUSE BLESSINGS

We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule after January 6th until February 2nd.

STATEMENT FROM METROPOLITAN GERASIMOS ON THE SOUTHERN CALFORNIA FIRES

Prayers continue for the people of Southern California who have been devastated by the ongoing fires. Please read the statement from Metropolitan Gerasimos on the Southern California fires:

https://www.sanfran.goarch.org/news/statement-from-metropolitan-gerasimos-on-the-southern-california-fires

Disaster Relief Donations: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=greekorth&id=50

Upcoming Events

FAMILY NIGHT: SANTA CLARA BRONCOS MEN'S BASKETBALL VS USF, SAT, JAN 11TH

The St. Nicholas Basketball, GOYA, JOY, and HOPE ministries are jointly hosting an outing to support our nearby Santa Clara Broncos Men’s basketball team on Saturday January 11^th. All parishioners and youth are welcome to join. We will have dedicated chaperones to look after any youth who are not accompanied by a parent. We will begin at 1:30pm at the St. Nicholas Community Center for lunch and fellowship. We’ll have a pastoral message, various board and card games as well as half-court basketball. We will carpool to the game around 3:15 (the game starts at 4pm). Following the game we will carpool back and meet back at Church for pickup (this will be around 6:30).

The lunch and ticket to the game will be $25/person. Tickets will be pre-purchased so please RSVP.

Kids will be able to participate on-court for the National Anthem and the half-time “high-five tunnel”. Please bring payment to the event. RSVP to [email protected] or [email protected] and indicate the number of tickets. Let us know how many unaccompanied youth so we can ensure enough carpool and supervision and provide a phone# for a text chain to communicate the timing of our return.

YOUTH BASKETBALL SPRING SEASON - PRACTICES HAVE BEGUN, REGISTER ASAP TO PARTICIPATE

Practices for the Youth Basketball spring season have started. If you are interested and not already registered for the 2024-2025 season, it is imperative that you register soon so we can organize the teams and register our rosters with the league. We need to have the minimum number of players registered by the end of January to register a team. Registrants after January are welcome, but only if we’ve determined there are enough for that age group by end of January. Teams are Girls 3^rd-5^th grades (Elementary) and 6^th-9^th grades (Middle School+) and Boys 3^rd-5^th grades (Elementary), 6^th-8^th grades (MS), and 9^th-12^thgrades (HS). Weekly practice days are:

Boys Elementary: Mondays 6-7:15 (note: there will be practice on MLK Jr Day 1/20 for those who can make it)

Boys Middle School: Tuesdays 6:45-8:15

Girls elementary and Middle School+ Wednesdays 6-7:30

Boys HS will begin practice in February, but be sure to register NOW so we can roster a team.

The OYAA is a recreational league of Bay Area Orthodox Churches. Games are typically Sunday afternoons running from the beginning of March to mid-May. We welcome all skill levels, but for the Spring Season we encourage consistent practice participation. There is a nominal fee to participate and the liability/waiver form common with all ministries is required.

Register your player here ASAP so we can organize teams, coaches, and provide updated communication, https://www.saintnicholas.org/basketball. If you have any questions, please contact the Program Director John Cocoles at [email protected] or [email protected].

ST ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

On Sunday, January 12, 2025, St Anna Philoptochos will be hosting coffee hour and having their annual membership drive. Have a coffee and a treat and get a start on renewing your 2025 Philoptochos dues or become a new member! Looking forward to seeing you!

GOLDEN YEARS MEETING

The Golden Years will meet on Tuesday, January 14th in the Small Hall at 11:30am. Please contact Christina Kouvaris at 408-306-8007 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.

AHEPA BLOOD DRIVE

BE A HERO: GIVE BLOOD TODAY! BLOOD DRIVE: Thursday, January 16th, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 1260 Davis St, San Jose, Small Hall.

Just a few minutes of your time can help save lives! Must be at least 18 years old, weigh over 110 lbs, and be in good health. For more info or help in making an appointment, contact Vassilis Zarifis at [email protected] or reference the link in the attached flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin to reserve your spot:

https://tinyurl.com/f4j6zmkx

New donors must register their profile by creating a login account using the link above and before making an actual appointment.

FDF PREVIEW AND GREEK NIGHT!

The Saint Nicholas Dance Ministry presents our FDF Preview on Saturday, January 25th at 5:30pm in the Community Center.

Please bring family and friends to enjoy a preview of our dance groups' FDF performances.

Performances will begin at 6:00pm followed by a Greek buffet dinner. Music and dancing to follow!

Tickets: $50 adults; Dancers and children under 12 are free. No host bar. To purchase tickets please go to:

https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/78/responses/new

All proceeds benefit the St. Nicholas Dance Ministry.

MISSIONS ANNUAL VASILOPITA FELLOWSHIP - SATURDAY, JAN 25TH

You are all invited to the Missions Ministry Vasilopita Fellowship on Saturday, January 25th at 2:00pm in the Small Hall.

With us this year will be the Joneses, Michael and Meghan and their lovely kids, active missionaries in Tonga. The Jones family was drawn into missionary service quite unexpectedly, when they learned about the apostolic ministry of the Holy Metropolis of New Zealand in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa and felt a strong calling to participate. The Joneses are serving as needed throughout the Metropolis: coordinating building projects, teaching the liturgical arts, conducting catechism, building community, and supporting the indigenous people of the South Pacific islands who have embraced Holy Orthodoxy.

Refreshments and appetizers will be provided. Free will offering to benefit the Jones Family.

Come and learn about OCMC's missionary efforts around the world. Hear the latest news and happenings from the mission field and how you can answer Christ's call to "go and make disciples of all nations."

Event is open to all. Please invite your friends! For questions, please contact Maria Aji at: (408)425-6967 | [email protected].

COLLEGE STUDENT MINISTRY

Please mark your calendars for the 2025 Saint Nicholas San Jose College Ministry event dates!

Compline at 6:00pm, followed by food and fellowship.

Wed. Jan 15, 2025

Wed. Feb.26, 2025

Wed. March 12, 2025

Wed. April 9, 2025

Wed. May 14, 2025

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Fr. Nebojsa or [email protected]

VOLUNTEERING AT SECOND HARVEST

Putting our Orthodox Faith into action! Join us at Second Harvest Food Bank the 4th Thursday 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 Thursday, January 16, 2025 using the link: https://shfb.tfaforms.net/350?VSID=a0vQo00000GPdEmIAL&_gl=1*1tfdfvr*_gcl_au*NjgyMjcyNzA3LjE3MzI1NjQ2MTM.*_ga*NTc3ODI4NDE5LjE3MzI1NjQ2MTM.*_ga_E3SL0CTS82*MTczMzUwNzUyNS4yLjEuMTczMzUwNzUzMy41Mi4wLjA.

"ALL YOU CAN EAT" CRETAN CRAB FEED - GET YOUR TICKETS!

**50% of all available seats have already been sold!**

Friday, January 31, 2025

Tickets available to purchase at the following site: https://CretanCrabFeed.eventbrite.com

Discounted Full Table Purchase $800 (10 Seats) (Available Now!)

Single Adult Purchase $85 (Available in January); Single Children Under 12 $50 (Available in January)

All Inclusive (Beer, Wine, Greek Liquor and Sodas)

Your generosity and support of the Cretan Crab Feed has enabled the Cretan Club to donate over $400,000 back to the community and other charities!

For questions, please contact Ted Cocoles at [email protected] or cell 408-569-5434 or Pete Panos at [email protected] or 408-835-9092

GOLDEN YEARS ANNUAL VALENTINE'S LUNCHEON

Please join us for the annual Golden Years Seniors Valentine’s Day Luncheon on Sunday, February 2, 2025 in the Small Hall immediately following the Divine Liturgy.

Menu: Chicken, Salad, Rice, Vegetables, and Dessert

Price: Adults $35.00; Children 12 and under $20.00 Tickets will be sold at coffee hour!

Response needed by January 26, 2025. Checks can be made payable to: Golden Years Seniors and sent to Antonia Komianos, 4070 Valerie Drive, Campbell, Ca 95008; 408-374-7774.

YOUNG ADULT WINTER RETREAT - TAHOE

Registration is open for the 18^th Annual Metropolis Young Adult Winter Retreat in Lake Tahoe, from Friday, January 17 – Monday, January 20, 2025. The theme for this gathering is “Be Still and Know: Listening for God’s still small voice” and will be led by Rev. Father James Kumarelas, Proistamenos from Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in San Jose, CA. Join us for this beautiful retreat, located on a private retreat center on the shore of Lake Tahoe with spectacular views, incredible food, and awesome accommodations! Details and registration online at: www.gosfyouth.org/youngadults

Special Events

Ahepa Blood Drive - St. Nicholas - Thursday, Jan 16th

BE A HERO: GIVE BLOOD TODAY! BLOOD DRIVE: Thursday, January 16th, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 1260 Davis St, San Jose, Small Hall. Just a few minutes of your time can help save lives! Must be at least 18 years old, weigh over 110 lbs, and be in good health. For more info or help in making an appointment, contact Vassilis Zarifis at [email protected] or reference the link in the attached flyer to reserve your spot.

FDF Preview and Dance - St. Nicholas - Friday, January 25th

The Saint Nicholas Dance Ministry presents our FDF Preview on Saturday, January 25th at 5:30pm in the Community Center. Please bring family and friends to enjoy a preview of our dance groups' FDF performances. Performances will begin at 6:00pm followed by a Greek buffet dinner. Music and dancing to follow! Tickets: $50 adults; Dancers and children under 12 are free. No host bar. To purchase tickets please go to: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/78/responses/new. All proceeds benefit the St. Nicholas Dance Ministry.

Missions Ministry Annual Vasilopita Fellowship - Saturday, Jan. 25th

You are all invited to the Missions Ministry Vasilopita Fellowship on Saturday, January 25th at 2:00pm in the Small Hall. With us this year will be the Joneses, Michael and Meghan and their lovely kids, active missionaries in Tonga. The Jones family was drawn into missionary service quite unexpectedly, when they learned about the apostolic ministry of the Holy Metropolis of New Zealand in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa and felt a strong calling to participate. The Joneses are serving as needed throughout the Metropolis: coordinating building projects, teaching the liturgical arts, conducting catechism, building community, and supporting the indigenous people of the South Pacific islands who have embraced Holy Orthodoxy. Refreshments and appetizers will be provided. Free will offering to benefit the Jones Family. Come and learn about OCMC's missionary efforts around the world. Hear the latest news and happenings from the mission field and how you can answer Christ's call to "go and make disciples of all nations." Event is open to all. Please invite your friends! For questions, please contact Maria Aji at: (408)425-6967 | [email protected].

Cretan Crab Feed - St. Nicholas - Friday, January 31st

Friday, January 31, 2025; Tickets available to purchase at the following site: https://CretanCrabFeed.eventbrite.com Discounted Full Table Purchase $800 (10 Seats) (Available Now!); Single Adult Purchase $85 (Available in January); Single Children Under 12 $50 (Available in January); All Inclusive (Beer, Wine, Greek Liquor and Sodas); Your generosity and support of the Cretan Crab Feed has enabled the Cretan Club to donate over $400,000 back to the community and other charities! For questions, please contact Ted Cocoles at [email protected] or cell 408-569-5434 or Pete Panos at [email protected] or 408-835-9092.

Golden Years Annual Valentine Lunch - St. Nicholas - Feb 2nd

Please join us for the annual Golden Years Seniors Valentine’s Day Luncheon on Sunday, February 2, 2025 in the Small Hall immediately following the Divine Liturgy. Menu: Chicken, Salad, Rice, Vegetables, and Dessert. Price: Adults $35.00; Children 12 and under $20.00. Tickets will be sold at coffee hour! Response needed by January 26, 2025. Checks can be made payable to: Golden Years Seniors and sent to Antonia Komianos, 4070 Valerie Drive, Campbell, Ca 95008; 408-374-7774.

Statement from Metropolitan Gerasimos on the Southern California Fires

Please read the attached statement.

Blessing of the Waters - SF Bay- Sun. Jan. 19th

The United Hellenic American Societies (UHAS) invites you to celebrate our community, culture, and heritage with "Blessing of the Waters SF Bay 2025" on Sunday, January 19 at Aquatic Park Cove from 12pm to 4pm with “Agiasmos” service at 1:45pm supported by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco, His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos and local clergy. Come and enjoy a beautiful Sunday afternoon listening to live Greek music by George Mylordos and “KYMATA” with the scenic backdrop of the SF Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz to witness our Greek culture and tradition. Please see the flyer for more information or visit https://uhasca.org/blessing-of-waters-2025. If you are interested in participating as a blessed cross swimmer, please contact Taso Zografos at 415-215-6113 or via email at [email protected].

Walk for Life - SF - Jan 25th

Please see attached flyer.

Panhellenic Scholarship Foundation - Deadline to Apply: Jan 31st

Please see the attached flyer for scholarship and internship opportunities.

Education Programs

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES

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.

January 2025
12 - Sunday School
19 - Sunday School
26 - Sunday School / Greek Letters Day / Sunday School In Service (Teacher and Aide Training)

February
2 - Sunday School
9 - Sunday School
16 - No Sunday School / FDF Weekend
23 - Sunday School / God Parents Day Celebration

March
2 - Sunday School
9 - Sunday School / Sunday of Orthodoxy
16 - Sunday School
23 - Sunday School
30 - Family Divine Liturgy

April
6 - Sunday School
13 - Sunday School
20 - No Sunday School Holy Pascha
27 - Family Divine Liturgy

May
4 - Sunday School
11 - Sunday School
18 - Last day Sunday School / High School Graduation Celebration

CROSSROAD 2025 APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!

CrossRoad is a ten-day academic summer institute that prepares high school juniors and seniors to make big life decisions and invites them to connect with the Orthodox Christian theological and spiritual tradition in a deep and meaningful way. There are four CrossRoad sessions to choose from. Apply early to secure your preferred location – Boston, New York, or Southern California. Session details: today at www.CrossRoadInstitute.org.

PANHELLENIC SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION

Please see the flyer for more information and links to the 2024-2025 Panhellenic Scholarship application in the Special Events section of this electronic bulletin. Applications due January 31, 2025.

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:

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

Ministries and Organizations

CANON OF FAITH - JANUARY 2024

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

https://indd.adobe.com/view/1c267818-b9e6-4421-9999-2af361e9e485

ADULT OPEN GYM BASKETBALL

Adult Open Gym Basketball is every Wednesday at 7:30pm and some Saturday mornings from 10am to 12 noon 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

CHOIR

The Choir is actively recruiting new members! If you are interested please contact Anthony Pappas at (408) 832-4271 for practice times. On Sundays, the Choir performs at the Divine Liturgy. Join the fun!

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].

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.

GREEK VILLAGE STAFF APPLICATIONS

Our Greek Village is returning in June 2025. We are seeking those who have a passion for Hellenic culture and Orthodox faith, a commitment to youth ministry, and a desire to make a lasting impact. Available positions include: Program Director, Greek Language Instructors, Counselors, Program Staff and Lifeguards. Information and applications online at: www.ourgreekvillage.com/careers

SUMMER CAMP STAFF APPLICATIONS

Do you want to make a positive difference in the lives of youth while gaining valuable leadership and teamwork experience? Apply to be part of the Summer Camp Staff team at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center. We’re hiring for a variety of roles including: Cabin Counselors, Program Staff, Photographers, Lifeguards and Medical Staff. Visit www.gosfyouth.org for application and details.

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!

YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Sunday School

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

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

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

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, January 12 - Sunday after Theophany
8:15am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Wednesday, January 15
6:00pm - Compline

Friday, January 17 - St. Anthony the Great
8:30am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Saturday, January 18 - Sts. Athanasios and Cyril
8:30am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 19 - 12th 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.

Saints and Feasts

January 12

Sunday after Epiphany