Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2025-02-09
Bulletin Contents
Special Services
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Hymns of the Day
Stewardship and Donations
Special Announcements
Upcoming Events
Special Events
Education and Scholarships
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:  

VASILIKI TRYPHONAS (40 DAYS), mother of Marianne Sweetser, Michael Tryphonas, and James Tryphonas,

VASILIOS (BILL) LEOS (15 YRS), husband of Helen Leos, father of Louis and Mike, father-in-law of Shirin and Sharon

May their memory be eternal.

 

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Elizabeth Barrous, Mary Ann Devetzis, Sofia Kotsiris, and Olga Mavrogenes 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 February 16, 2025: Eire Gemelos and Olga Koutalides

 

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

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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Eleventh Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:14-25

At that time, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. And he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." A second time he said to him, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go." (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, "Follow me." Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?" When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?" Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!" The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?" This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.

Eleventh Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 21:14-25

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἐφανέρωσεν ἑαυτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν, καὶ λέγει τῷ Σίμωνι Πέτρῳ· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ, ἀγαπᾶς με πλέον τούτων; Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ναὶ Κύριε, σὺ οἶδας ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ· Βόσκε τὰ ἀρνία μου. Λέγει αὐτῷ πάλιν δεύτερον· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ ἀγαπᾶς με; Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ναί, Κύριε, σὺ οἶδας ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ποίμαινε τὰ πρόβατά μου. Λέγει αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ, φιλεῖς με; ἐλυπήθη ὁ Πέτρος, ὅτι εἶπεν αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον, φιλεῖς με; Καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Κύριε, σὺ πάντα οἶδας, σὺ γινώσκεις ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς. Βόσκε τὰ πρόβατά μου. Ἀμὴν ἀμὴν λέγω σοι, ὅτε ἦς νεώτερος, ἐζώννυες σεαυτόν, καὶ περιεπάτεις ὅπου ἤθελες, ὅταν δὲ γηράσῃς, ἐκτενεῖς τὰς χεῖράς σου, καὶ ἄλλος σε ζώσει, καὶ οἴσει ὅπου οὐ θέλεις. Τοῦτο δὲ εἶπε, σημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ δοξάσει τὸν Θεόν. Καὶ τοῦτο εἰπών, λέγει αὐτῷ· Ἀκολούθει μοι. Ἐπιστραφεὶς δὲ ὁ Πέτρος βλέπει τὸν μαθητὴν ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἀκολουθοῦντα, ὃς καὶ ἀνέπεσεν ἐν τῷ δείπνῳ ἐπὶ τὸ στῆθος αὐτοῦ καὶ εἶπε· Κύριε, τίς ἐστιν ὁ παραδιδούς σε; τοῦτον ἰδὼν ὁ Πέτρος λέγει τῷ Ἰησοῦ· Κύριε, οὗτος δὲ τί; λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν ἕως ἔρχομαι, τί πρὸς σέ; σύ μοι ἀκολούθει μοι. Ἐξῆλθεν οὖν ὁ λόγος οὗτος εἰς τοὺς ἀδελφούς. Ὃτι ὁ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος οὐκ ἀποθνῄσκει, καὶ οὐκ εἶπεν αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ὅτι οὐκ ἀποθνήσκει· ἀλλ' ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν ἕως ἔρχομαι, τί πρὸς σὲ; Οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ μαθητὴς ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ τούτων, καὶ γράψας ταῦτα, καὶ οἴδαμεν ὅτι ἀληθής ἐστιν ἡ μαρτυρία αὐτοῦ. Ἔστι δὲ καὶ ἄλλα πολλὰ ὅσα ἐποίησεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἅτινα ἐὰν γράφηται καθ' ἕν, οὐδὲ αὐτὸν οἶμαι τὸν κόσμον χωρῆσαι τὰ γραφόμενα βιβλία. Ἀμήν.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 4th Mode. Psalm 75.11,1.
Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them.
Verse: God is known in Judah; his name is great in Israel.

The reading is from St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy 3:10-15.

TIMOTHY, my son, you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions, my sufferings, what befell me at Antioch, at lconion, and at Lystra, what persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceivers and deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Προκείμενον. Plagal 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 75.11,1.
Εὔξασθε καὶ ἀπόδοτε Κυρίῳ τῷ Θεῷ ἡμῶν.
Στίχ. Γνωστὸς ἐν τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ ὁ Θεός, ἐν τῷ Ἰσραὴλ μέγα τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Τιμόθεον β' 3:10-15.

Τέκνον Τιμόθεε, παρηκολούθηκάς μου τῇ διδασκαλίᾳ, τῇ ἀγωγῇ, τῇ προθέσει, τῇ πίστει, τῇ μακροθυμίᾳ, τῇ ἀγάπῃ, τῇ ὑπομονῇ, τοῖς διωγμοῖς, τοῖς παθήμασιν, οἷά μοι ἐγένετο ἐν Ἀντιοχείᾳ, ἐν Ἰκονίῳ, ἐν Λύστροις, οἵους διωγμοὺς ὑπήνεγκα· καὶ ἐκ πάντων με ἐρρύσατο ὁ κύριος. Καὶ πάντες δὲ οἱ θέλοντες εὐσεβῶς ζῇν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διωχθήσονται. Πονηροὶ δὲ ἄνθρωποι καὶ γόητες προκόψουσιν ἐπὶ τὸ χεῖρον, πλανῶντες καὶ πλανώμενοι. Σὺ δὲ μένε ἐν οἷς ἔμαθες καὶ ἐπιστώθης, εἰδὼς παρὰ τίνος ἔμαθες, καὶ ὅτι ἀπὸ βρέφους τὰ ἱερὰ γράμματα οἶδας, τὰ δυνάμενά σε σοφίσαι εἰς σωτηρίαν διὰ πίστεως τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ.

Gospel Reading

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today
The Reading is from Luke 18:10-14

The Lord said this parable, "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 18:10-14

Εἶπεν ὁ Κύριος τήν παραβολὴν ταύτην· Ἄνθρωποι δύο ἀνέβησαν εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν προσεύξασθαι, ὁ εἷς Φαρισαῖος καὶ ὁ ἕτερος τελώνης. ὁ Φαρισαῖος σταθεὶς πρὸς ἑαυτὸν ταῦτα προσηύχετο· ὁ Θεός, εὐχαριστῶ σοι ὅτι οὐκ εἰμὶ ὥσπερ οἱ λοιποὶ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, ἅρπαγες, ἄδικοι, μοιχοί, ἢ καὶ ὡς οὗτος ὁ τελώνης· νηστεύω δὶς τοῦ σαββάτου, ἀποδεκατῶ πάντα ὅσα κτῶμαι. καὶ ὁ τελώνης μακρόθεν ἑστὼς οὐκ ἤθελεν οὐδὲ τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν ἐπᾶραι, ἀλλ᾿ ἔτυπτεν εἰς τὸ στῆθος αὐτοῦ λέγων· ὁ Θεός, ἱλάσθητί μοι τῷ ἁμαρτωλῷ. λέγω ὑμῖν, κατέβη οὗτος δεδικαιωμένος εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ ἢ γὰρ ἐκεῖνος· ὅτι πᾶς ὁ ὑψῶν ἑαυτὸν ταπεινωθήσεται, ὁ δὲ ταπεινῶν ἑαυτὸν ὑψωθήσεται.

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 4th Mode

You descended from on high, O compassionate One, and condescended to be buried for three days, so that from the passions You might set us free. Our life and resurrection, O Lord, glory be to You.
Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ εὔσπλαγχνος, ταφὴν καταδέξω τριήμερον, ἵνα ἡμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃς τῶν παθῶν. Ἡ ζωὴ καὶ ἡ Ἀνάστασις ἡμῶν, Κύριε δόξα σοι.

Apolytikion for Apodosis of the Presentation in the 1st Mode

Lady full of grace, rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos, for Christ our God, the Sun of righteousness has risen from you and He illumined those in darkness. And you, righteous Elder, be glad in heart, receiving in your embraces the One who liberates our souls and bestows on us the Resurrection.
Χαῖρε κεχαριτωμένη Θεοτόκε Παρθένε, ἐκ σοῦ γὰρ ἀνέτειλεν ὁ Ἥλιος τῆς δικαιοσύνης, Χριστὸς ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν, φωτίζων τοὺς ἐν σκότει. Εὐφραίνου καὶ σὺ Πρεσβύτα δίκαιε, δεξάμενος ἐν ἀγκάλαις τὸν ἐλευθερωτὴν τῶν ψυχῶν ἡμῶν, χαριζόμενος ἡμῖν καὶ τὴν Ἀνάστασιν.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 1st Mode

Your birth sanctified a Virgin's womb and properly blessed the hands of Symeon. Having now come and saved us O Christ our God, give peace to Your commonwealth in troubled times and strengthen those in authority, whom You love, as only the loving One.
Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου, καὶ χείρας τοῦ Συμεὼν εὐλογήσας ὡς ἔπρεπε, προφθάσας καὶ νὺν ἔσωσας ἡμᾶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός. Ἀλλ' εἰρήνευσον ἐν πολέμοις τὸ πολίτευμα, καὶ κραταίωσον Βασιλεῖς οὓς ἠγάπησας, ὁ μόνος φιλάνθρωπος.
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Stewardship and Donations

2025 STEWARDSHIP - YOUR OWN OF YOUR OWN

“Your Own Of Your Own”

Dear Beloved Parishioners,

We are reminded of the exclamation addressed to our Lord Jesus Christ in the Divine Liturgy, “Your own of Your own, we offer to You…!” which reminds us that our contributions to the Church are a gesture of gratitude for the blessings we have received.  By giving to His Church, we do more than meet obligations--we help realize the potential of our church community through our collective support.

In 2024, you, devoted parishioners, contributed your talents, time, and donations.  As a result, we have made numerous improvements within our campus and church.  We had successful events and fundraisers throughout the year, and we enjoyed the fellowship and collaboration of each other.  We give thanks to God for the spiritual growth experienced by our families and children in the Divine Liturgy and Youth Ministries.  In 2025, we will celebrate our Saint Nicholas Church’s 80th anniversary--an exciting year: “Reflecting on Our Journey, Rejoicing in Our Future – United in Faith for 80 years”.

The Stewardship Ministry invites us to reflect on our priorities and values, express gratitude, give of ourselves, and grow in grace.  It is an opportunity to share in God’s work.  Giving is not a replacement for commitment but rather an expression of it, demonstrating our appreciation for the blessings in our lives. This year, we have set an ambitious goal of raising $605,000 to further our mission, and we are excited to see the positive change we can create together in 2025.

Please complete your Stewardship Commitment for 2025 to ensure the success of the programs addressing the spiritual needs of the families entrusted to our care.  Stewardship Sunday will take place on Sunday, February 9th – bring your stewardship cards with you or feel free to send them in the mail or complete online.  

Your financial stewardship supports the foundation of our Parish Ministries and our mission to spread Christ’s Word and our Orthodox Faith.  We thank you for your dedication to our parish and your participation in the salvific work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Yours in Christ,
Rev. Father James Kumarelas, Proistamenos
Rev. Father Nebojsa Pantic, Assistant Priest
Nektarios Matheou, Parish Council President


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 2025

Stewardship 2025 as of February 6, 2025

Goal: $605,000 (Approved 2025 Budget)
Pledged: $140,951
Pledges Paid: $60,691
Average Pledge: $993
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $80,260
Number of Stewards Pledging: 142

Stewardship 2024 on February 8, 2024 for comparison purposes:

Goal: $491,000 (Approved 2024 Budget with tentative stretch goal of $500,000)
Pledged: $44,275
Pledges Paid: $32,720
Average Pledge: $553
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $11,555
Number of Stewards Pledging: 80

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 2025 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:  https://www.saintnicholas.org/donate#stewardship

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

STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 9TH

Please take a moment to prayerfully consider your stewardship pledge for this year. Please bring your completed stewardship card to Stewardship Sunday scheduled for Sunday, February 9th in church. 

If you prefer to make your 2025 Stewardship Commitment online, please use the following link: https://www.saintnicholas.org/donate#stewardship

The stewardship theme for 2025 is “Your Own Of Your Own” - He receives our humble offering of bread and wine and returns them as His body and blood in Holy Communion. 

Love, 

Your Stewardship Committee


JOIN US TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE - COFFEE HOUR, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9TH

Please join us for Coffee Hour in the Small Hall on Sunday, February 9, 2025, to enjoy a beverage and light snacks.  In light of the massive devastation resulting from the Los Angeles Fires, all proceeds received during  Coffee Hour will be donated equally to the following two (2) non-profit organizations:

International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) – providing emotional and spiritual care (ESC), coordinating and acting as respite centers or shelters, as well as coordinating with FEMA, local emergency authorities, and other volunteer groups.

World Central Kitchen – Support first responders and families impacted by the wildfires in the Los Angeles area. World Central Kitchen teams are mobilized across the region providing immediate relief and working with restaurant and food truck partners to provide meals.

Again, we invite you to join us in bringing relief to our neighbors because great acts are made up of small deeds! Let’s make a difference!


CLERGY-LAITY ASSEMBLY - BE A DELEGATE!

Preparations are underway for the 2025 Clergy-Laity Assembly for our Metropolis. This is an opportunity for our clergy and lay leaders of our parishes to come together, to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church.

This year’s Assembly will be held on Monday, May 5 beginning at 12:00 p.m., and will conclude on Tuesday, May 6 at 4:00 p.m. at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. 

Each parish is expected to have two members of the parish attend - elected at the Parish Assembly Meeting scheduled at our church on Sunday, April 27th.  Any parishioner in good standing, that is interested in being one our delegates, can self-nominate at our Parish Assembly meeting.


ORTHODOXY 101: PRELUDE TO PASCHA - CHRIST IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

Our spring semester of Orthodoxy 101 will be a journey looking at Old Testament prophesies, alliterations, precursors, and foreshadowing of the passion and resurrection of Christ. 

Join Fr. Nebojsa Pantic via Zoom on Mondays in February, and HYBRID on Mondays during Great Lent, and following Pascha.  

Class will be 6:15pm until 7pm.  During February class will solely be online, via Zoom.  During Lent the class will be followed by Great Compline at 7pm.  After Pascha, the class will continue as a Hybrid class.  We will go until the end of the Sunday School year.

The next class will be Monday, February 10th at 6:15pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7084362224 

For more information please contact [email protected] 


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


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Upcoming Events

RSVP FOR TSIKNOPEMPTI NIGHT!

The Saint Nicholas Parish Council invites you to celebrate our inaugural Tsiknopempti Night on Thursday, February 20th at 6pm in the Community Center!

Appetizers, souvalaki dinner, dessert, and cash bar incuded! Games for children! Fun, faith, and fellowship for all!

This is our first event as we celebrate our parish's 80th anniversay with the motto:  Reflecting on Our Journey, Rejoicing in Our Future - United in Faith for 80 Years.

All parishioners and families are invited!  This is an open donation event, and while there is no obligation, a suggested contribution of $15 per person would help cover the costs.  Thank you for our support!

RSVP online here:  https://forms.gle/MuWmxZkmgqcnfe7i8

Or feel free to call or text at 408-858-4774 (indicate family name and how many adults and/or children). 

See the flyer in the Special Events section of our e-bulletin.  See you there!


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 in Room 2 of the Educational Building.

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] 


JOIN THE 2025 ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM ORATORICAL FESTIVAL!

Attention students in 5-12TH Grades:

We're thrilled to share that the 2025 St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival is just around the corner! Hosted by the Department of Religious Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, this festival is a fantastic opportunity for our youth to express their faith, share their thoughts, and shine on stage.

Who Can Participate?

Senior Division: Students in grades 10-12

Junior Division:  Students in grades 7-9

But that's not all! We're also encouraging our talented students in grades 5-6 to join us locally at Saint Nicholas. It's an excellent chance for them to get involved, gain confidence, and build their oratorical skills. 

 Awards and Scholarships Await!  Participants in the senior and junior divisions can earn awards and scholarships at the archdiocese level. Plus, all participants—regardless of age or division—will receive a special award from Saint Nicholas as appreciation and pride in their efforts.

Save the Date: March 23, 2025, at Saint Nicholas Church: on this special day, all our participating children will present their speeches here at Saint Nicholas.  Let's fill the room with support and encouragement for our outstanding youth. Y our presence means the world to them; together, we can make it a day to remember! 

Why Encourage Your Child to Participate?

Personal Growth: Public speaking enhances confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Faith: Topics of faith deepen their understanding and personal connection.

Community Building: It's a chance to connect with peers and our church community.

 We're here to support and mentor all participants. We'll provide guidance and assistance with delivering their speeches, aiming to ensure they feel confident and ready for the challenge.  Let’s champion Our Saint Nicholas Youth and unite to inspire, support, and encourage our young voices. After all, they are not just the future of our church—they are its vibrant present. 

Please feel free to contact Maria Daltayanni at email:  [email protected] or stop by the Sunday School office for all of the information. 


GOLDEN YEARS MEETING

The Golden Years will not meet on February 11th.  The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 11th at 11:30am in the Small Hall.   Please contact Christina Kouvaris at 408-306-8007 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.


YOUTH BASKETBALL SPRING SEASON - PRACTICES HAVE BEGUN, REGISTER BY FEB 2ND!

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 3rd-5th grades (Elementary) and 6th-9th grades (Middle School+) and Boys 3rd-5th grades (Elementary), 6th-8th grades (MS), and 9th-12thgrades (HS).  

It is confirmed there will be opponents for Girls Elem and MS this year.  We need a couple more to fill out a roster for each team otherwise we’ll only have one.  Also looking to add more on the Boys Elem and Boys HS teams.

Weekly practice days are:

Boys elementary: Mondays 6-7:15pm

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

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

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].


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Special Events

    RSVP: Tsiknopempti Night - Thursday, February 20th at 6:00 PM - St. Nicholas

    RSVP: Tsiknopempti Night - Thursday, February 20th at 6:00 PM - St. Nicholas

    RSVP online here: https://forms.gle/MuWmxZkmgqcnfe7i8 Or feel free to call or text at 408-858-4774 (indicate family name and how many adults and/or children)

    Crab Feed - Milpitas - Feb 22nd

    Crab Feed - Milpitas - Feb 22nd

    Please see the attached flyer. Benefits St. James Orthodox Church.

    Bay Area Goya Lenten Retreat - Marin Headlands -Mar. 14th-16th

    Bay Area Goya Lenten Retreat - Marin Headlands -Mar. 14th-16th

    The Bay Area GOYA Lenten Retreat takes place this year on March 14-16th. Register electronically at www.tinyurl.com/LentenRetreat2025 or by scanning the QR code.

    Short Course on Theology - Virtual - Begins April 30th

    Short Course on Theology - Virtual - Begins April 30th

    Adult theology course: A Very Short Basic Course in Orthodox Theology with Dr. Paraskeve (Eve) Tibbs beginning Wednesday, April 30, 2025 and continuing for 5 weeks (• April 30 • May 7 • May 14 • May 21 • May 28) @ 5:00-6:50 pm | Zoom only. Registration is Required: https://orthodoxyou.com/register

    Women's Wellness Event - Belmont - Sat., Mar. 1st

    Women's Wellness Event - Belmont - Sat., Mar. 1st

    The Holy Cross Belmont Philoptochos invites all ladies to join us on Sat., Mar. 1, 10:30 AM, for a light brunch and wellness presentation by renowned wellness coach Vas Priebe, who will teach us how to make wellness a fun and sustainable part of our lives! RSVP for this free event at Holy Cross Church: [email protected] or 650-787-5081. Please see the attached flyer.

    Clergy - Laity Assembly - Dunlap - May 5th-6th

    Clergy - Laity Assembly - Dunlap - May 5th-6th

    Preparations are underway for the 2025 Clergy-Laity Assembly for our Metropolis. This is an opportunity for our clergy and lay leaders of our parishes to come together, to learn and grow in our faith, gain new insights into the ministries and programs offered by our Metropolis, and take an active role in the governance of our Church. This year’s Assembly will be held on Monday, May 5 beginning at 12:00 p.m., and will conclude on Tuesday, May 6 at 4:00 p.m. We will meet at Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. Clergy will remain at the Ranch for a Clergy Retreat which will commence immediately following the Clergy-Laity Assembly, and conclude on Wednesday, May 7 at 3:00 p.m. We look forward to welcoming you to the Ranch, a beautiful gathering space and cornerstone ministry of our Metropolis. A detailed agenda and registration materials will be provided no later than 60 days prior to the convening of the Assembly. As specified in the 2019 Uniform Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, each parish is expected to have four delegates in attendance at the Clergy-Laity Assembly, comprised of the following: 1. The Parish Priest. 2. The President of the Parish Council, and in his or her absence the Vice President, or in his or her absence any member of the Parish Council designated by it. 3. Two members of the Parish elected by the Parish Assembly. Please make sure this important item is placed on the agenda of your upcoming Parish Assembly Meeting so that you may elect these delegates to ensure full participation from your parish.

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Education and Scholarships

GAPWS SCHOLARSHIP

The Greek American Professional Women’s Society is proud to support and mentor young women who work towards advancing their education and becoming successful members of their communities.​The Society announces a scholarship award to be offered to a female college student of Hellenic heritage in 2025. ​Eligible applicants must be residents of California, full-time, degree-seeking college students (undergraduate) at an accredited college or university in the United States.  A minimum GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is required. ​The 2025 GAPWS scholarship recipient will receive $2,000. Deadline for applications is March 31, 2025.  To apply go to www.gapws.org.


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.

February 2025
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.  


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

METROPOLIS SUMMER CAMP 2025

**St. Nicholas is trying to get a group together to attend Session 3**

This July, the Metropolis invites youth ages 8-18 to join us for the Metropolis Summer Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch & Retreat Center in Dunlap, CA. This exciting experience offers a chance to make new friends, reconnect with old ones, and deepen your faith. Online camper registration opens on February 1, and spots will fill up quickly!

METROPOLIS SUMMER CAMP WEBSITE: https://gosfyouth.org/summer-camp

2025 SUMMER CAMP DATES

Session 1: July 6 - 12

Session 2: July 13 - 19

Session 3: July 20 - 26

CAMPER REGISTRATION

$725 Early Registration (February 1 – February 8)

$750 Regular Registration (February 9 – March 31)

$775 Late Registration (April 1 or later)

*A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to register. Payment plans are available.

CAMPER AGES

The youngest campers will be 8 years old (or entering 3rd grade in Fall 2025) and the oldest will be 18 years old (or will be graduating High School in Spring 2025).

SUMMER CAMP STAFF

The Metropolis is seeking passionate, faithful, and dedicated young adults (19+) to join the camp staff. Additionally, they are looking for medical and lifeguard personnel. If you know someone who would be a great fit for the Metropolis Staff, please encourage them to apply! Applications are open until March 1 on our website. CLICK HERE

MEDICAL STAFF

The Metropolis is in need of summer camp medical staff. If you are a licensed medical professional or know someone who is, please encourage them to apply on the camp website CLICK HERE. We especially love having MD's, NP's, and RN's!

AMAZON WISH LIST

Help us keep the cost of camp down and make a donation from our Amazon Wish List HERE.

CAMPER SCHOLARSHIPS FOR THOSE IN NEED

With the generous support of both the Archbishop Elpidophoros Summer Camp Scholarship Fund and Leadership 100, the Metropolis will be able to offer camp scholarships to assist families experiencing financial challenges. Before you apply for a scholarship, we ask that you first ask your parish if they have any summer camp scholarships available. As you wait to hear about parish camp scholarships or hear back from the Archdiocese, we highly suggest registering now by paying the $100 deposit to secure a spot as we will quickly fill up! CLICK HERE


CANON OF FAITH - FEBRUARY 2025

Please read the Canon of Faith for February 2025 using the online link viewing:    

https://indd.adobe.com/view/c410b394-8826-417d-ba21-58b089b23392


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. 


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

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, February 9 - Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee - Triodion Begins
8:15am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, February 10 - St. Haralambos the Hieromartyr
8:30am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Saturday, February 15 - St. Anthimus the Elder of Chios
8:30am - Orthros
9:30am - Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, February 16 - Sunday of the Prodigal Son
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

February 09

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today

The Pharisees were an ancient and outstanding sect among the Jews known for their diligent observance of the outward matters of the Law. Although, according to the word of our Lord, they "did all their works to be seen of men" (Matt. 23:5), and were hypocrites (ibid. 23: 13, 14, 15, etc.), because of the apparent holiness of their lives they were thought by all to be righteous, and separate from others, which is what the name Pharisee means. On the other hand, Publicans, collectors of the royal taxes, committed many injustices and extortions for filthy lucre's sake, and all held them to be sinners and unjust. It was therefore according to common opinion that the Lord Jesus in His parable signified a virtuous person by a Pharisee, and a sinner by a Publican, to teach His disciples the harm of pride and the profit of humble-mindedness.

Since the chief weapon for virtue is humility, and the greatest hindrance to it is pride, the divine Fathers have set these three weeks before the Forty-day Fast as a preparation for the spiritual struggles of virtue. This present week they have called Harbinger, since it declares that the Fast is approaching; and they set humility as the foundation for all our spiritual labors by appointing that the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee be read today, even before the Fast begins, to teach, through the vaunting of the Pharisee, that the foul smoke of self-esteem and the stench of boasting drives away the grace of the Spirit, strips man of all his virtue, and casts him into the pits of Hades; and, through the repentance and contrite prayer of the Publican, that humility confers upon the sinner forgiveness of all his wicked deeds and raises him up to the greatest heights.

All foods are allowed the week that follows this Sunday.

February 09

Leavetaking of the Presentation of Our Lord and Savior in the Temple

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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

If there is a moral quality almost completely disregarded and even denied today, it is indeed humility. The culture in which we live constantly instills in us the sense of pride, of self-glorification, and of self-righteousness ... Even our churches - are they not imbued with that same spirit of the Pharisee? Do we not want our every contribution, every 'good deed,' all the we do 'for the Church' to be acknowledged, praised, publicized? ... How does one become humble? The answer, for a Christian, is simple: by contemplating Christ..."
Fr. Alexander Schmemann
Great Lent, pp. 19-20., 20th Century

It is possible for those who have come back again after repentance to shine with much lustre, and oftentimes more than those who have never fallen at all, I have demonstrated from the divine writings. Thus at least both the publicans and the harlots inherit the kingdom of Heaven, thus many of the last are placed before the first.
St. John Chrysostom
AN EXHORTATION TO THEODORE AFTER HIS FALL, 4th Century

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